{"id":13043,"date":"2016-06-19T19:39:03","date_gmt":"2016-06-19T23:39:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=13043"},"modified":"2025-02-18T19:10:15","modified_gmt":"2025-02-19T00:10:15","slug":"seasons-of-change-by-adams_lover","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=13043","title":{"rendered":"Seasons Of Change (by Adams_Lover)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary:\u00a0 <\/strong>Seasons of Change is a continuation story from Weekend Dad, a modern day Bonanza story featuring Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>The story begins ten years after the end of Weekend Dad, and Jason is getting ready to head to college.\u00a0 <\/span>The story will continue the four years Jason is in college until he graduates.\u00a0 <\/span>There will be many references to the Weekend Dad<\/em><\/strong> story, so if you have read it before, you will understand them when you read them in this story.<\/span><\/p>\n

PG-13: \u00a0Very mild language and implied sexual situations\u00a0 (201,225 words)<\/p>\n

Weekend Dad Series:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Weekend Dad<\/a>
\nSeasons of Change<\/a>
\nWhen They Were Young <\/a>– a prequel to Weekend Dad<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Seasons of Change<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

Chapter One<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

It was a Friday afternoon in the spring of Jason Cartwright\u2019s senior year of high school, and he was anxiously waiting for the mail carrier to come.\u00a0 <\/span>He had already begun receiving acceptance letters from different colleges and universities he applied to earlier in the school year.\u00a0 <\/span>He received offers -some with full scholarships- from such prestigious schools as UNLV, Stanford, and Yale, but the two universities he most was interested in were the ones he had applied to and was waiting to hear from,\u00a0 <\/span>Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, both located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jason had felt the engineering bug when he was in the third grade and did a project about square set timbering.\u00a0 <\/span>By luck, he had drawn Phillip Deidesheimer\u2019s name for his project\u2019s subject when his class was studying about the Comstock Lode.\u00a0 <\/span>His father, Adam Cartwright, couldn\u2019t have been happier when his son told him many years later it was studying about Phillip Deidesheimer, that helped him decide he wanted to be an engineer and someday work side by side with him at Cartwright, Incorporated. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica Cartwright, Jason\u2019s mother, checked the mail and found the two envelopes had finally arrived, she smiled when she saw them.\u00a0 <\/span>She knew her son\u2019s wait and angst were almost over.\u00a0 <\/span>He would soon know if one or both schools had accepted his applications for admission to their universities. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason!\u201d Jessica yelled as she entered the house, \u201cYou have letters from Harvard and M.I.T.!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason took after his father in height and also inherited his hazel eyes, but he looked more like his mother than his father.\u00a0 <\/span>He had always been a very mature boy, even in his younger years.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam and Jessica felt he not only inherited this from his father but from the years they were divorced causing their son to grow up faster than they preferred. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica was in the kitchen making herself a cup of tea when Jason walked in with a smile on his face.\u00a0 <\/span>He was eager to open the letters he was waiting for what seemed like a lifetime to come.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMom, where are the letters?\u00a0 <\/span>I can\u2019t wait to if I’ve been accepted!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThere over there on the table, Honey,\u201d Jessica said as she pulled a mug from the cabinet as the kettle started to whistle.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWould you like some tea?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, sure, Mom,\u201d Jason said as he picked up the two envelopes and stared at them.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica made two mugs of tea and headed toward the table in the kitchen where Jason was standing looking at the letters addressed to him.\u00a0 <\/span>She noticed her son standing stoically staring at the envelopes.\u00a0 <\/span>She sat the mugs down and put her arm around her son\u2019s waist and said, \u201cAren\u2019t you going to open them?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason laughed and said, \u201cI don\u2019t know why, but I\u2019m a bit nervous.\u00a0 <\/span>What if they are both rejection letters?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica gave her son a pat on the back, sat down, and took a drink from her hot mug.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, why don\u2019t open them.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re not going to find out unless you read the letter inside.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason sat down next to his mother and took a drink of tea.\u00a0 <\/span>He put the letter from Harvard on the table and stared again at the envelope from M.I.T..\u00a0 <\/span>Jason flipped it over, ripped open the top, pulled the letter out and began to read it to himself at first.\u00a0 <\/span>A broad smile came across his face as he started reading the letter from the beginning again aloud.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe are pleased to inform you that your admission to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology School of Engineering is accepted!\u201d Jason\u2019s voice grew with excitement as he read each word. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMom! I got in! I got into M.I.T.!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason continued to read the acceptance letter with enthusiasm as he now knew his wait was over; his first choice of schools M.I.T. had accepted him. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Honey, I\u2019m so proud of you!\u00a0 <\/span>I know your father will be excited for you, too.\u00a0 <\/span>What about Harvard; what did they say?\u00a0 <\/span>You know he wants you to be a Harvard man as he was.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason put down his acceptance letter from M.I.T. and quickly opened the letter from Harvard and began to read it aloud as well. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe are pleased to inform you your application to Harvard University School of Engineering is accepted!\u00a0 <\/span>Mom! Can you believe it? I got in!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason leaped up and with enthusiasm, grabbed his mother from her seat and hugged her tight, swinging her around with excitement. <\/span><\/p>\n

Emily Cartwright, going on sixteen, walked in through the kitchen door and saw Jason hugging their mother.\u00a0 <\/span>She had stayed at school late preparing for her varsity cheerleader tryout the following week.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s all the excitement about?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>She asked as she walked over to the table and took a drink of her mother\u2019s tea.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily!\u00a0 <\/span>There\u2019s hot water on the stove, Sweetheart,\u201d Jessica moaned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve been accepted to M.I.T. and Harvard!\u00a0 <\/span>Can you believe it?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason told his sister with great enthusiasm. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI knew you would, Jason!\u00a0 <\/span>I said, you didn’t have to worry about being accepted to either or both schools.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re still number one in your class and it seems like every prestigious school in the country has been soliciting you with full scholarships and what not.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m excited for you, older brother,\u201d she said as she went and gave him a hug.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Emmy, I know you\u2019re happy for me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason and Emily had been close growing up even though four years separated the two of them. Their bond became even tighter after Jason rescued his sister from a man who tried to snatch her at the photography studio a few Christmas seasons before when they went together to pick up a special gift for their parents\u2019 eighth wedding anniversary.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason, Emily, and their younger sister, Jillian, had all dressed in western wear in the late summer of the same year and did a photo shoot at their grandfather\u2019s ranch, The Ponderosa.\u00a0 <\/span>They had a large portrait of the three of them made with their horses, framed to hang on the wall in their formal living room.\u00a0 <\/span>They also had a leather bound photo album with different shots of the three of them together as well as individually, as a keepsake memento for their parents.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason also ordered a framed 8×10 photo of the three of them together sitting on hay bales in the meadow their mother and father loved the most, with the Sierra Nevada Mountains as a backdrop.\u00a0 <\/span>He wanted his father to have an updated picture of the three of them for his office credenza.\u00a0 <\/span>For his mother\u2019s home office they decided to have individual 5×7 portraits made at the lake\u2019s edge and were put in a trifold frame.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily stayed outside to talk on her phone to a girlfriend while Jason went inside to pick up their photography order.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason heard Emily scream as the man tried to grab her around the waist.\u00a0 <\/span>She was able to fight him off until Jason rescued her.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason grabbed the man and the two fought as the would-be abductor tried to escape.\u00a0 <\/span>The clerk in the studio called 9-1-1, and the police arrived quickly.\u00a0 <\/span>During the investigation, it was uncovered the sexual predator had been stalking Emily for several months.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam and Jessica were afraid to let their daughter go anywhere without one of them with her until the trial was over and the would-be abductor was safely away in prison. Adam and Jessica became more lenient in letting their daughter go places and do things with her friends without one them being with her in the past year.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy\u2019s going to be so excited, another Harvard man in the family,\u201d Emily said as she slapped her brother on the back.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve been accepted to Harvard, Em, but I\u2019ve also been accepted to M.I.T.,\u201d Jason reminded his little sister.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, but you\u2019re going to Harvard, aren\u2019t you?\u00a0 <\/span>I mean, Mommy and Daddy both went to Harvard, it would make sense you would go there, too, right?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoney, your daddy wants him to be a Harvard man.\u00a0 <\/span>I would love him to be a Harvard man, too, but I want Jason to go where he wants to go, not where Daddy or I want him to go.\u00a0 <\/span>I broke my father\u2019s heart when I chose Harvard over Yale.\u00a0 <\/span>Papa was a proud Yale man, and to have his daughter go to Harvard was almost too much for him,\u201d Jessica laughed, knowing the huge rivalry between the two schools.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cDaddy will be happy for Jason, whichever school he chooses.\u00a0 <\/span>He\u2019s more ecstatic Jason wants to follow in his footsteps as an engineer than which school he attends.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat might be the way you see it, Mommy, but I don\u2019t know about Daddy.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve heard him bragging about Jason becoming a Harvard man with Poppy, Uncle Hoss, and Uncle Joe.\u00a0 <\/span>He may act like he doesn\u2019t care which school Jason goes to, like you, but I think deep down Daddy wants him to be a Harvard man just like he is.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica could see her son\u2019s form tense up.\u00a0 <\/span>She knew Adam\u2019s wish for him to go to Harvard, but Jason had not expressed his sincere desire to go to M.I.T. with any of his family.\u00a0 <\/span>He applied to Harvard because he knew it would please his parents.\u00a0 <\/span>Now both schools had accepted him, and Jason would have to tell him his desire to attend M.I.T. over Harvard.\u00a0 <\/span>He thought about just sucking it up and becoming a Harvard man to make his father happy, but with M.I.T. accepting him too, Jason had some tough decisions to make.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s the matter, Honey?\u00a0 <\/span>You don\u2019t look like a boy who just received acceptance letters from two of the most prestigious schools in the country.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m okay, Mom.\u00a0 <\/span>I guess it\u2019s just I now have a huge decision to make.\u00a0 <\/span>If one had accepted me and the other not, the choice would have been done for me, but since they\u2019ve both accepted me, I\u2019ve got some soul-searching to do.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason grabbed his mug of tea and headed back to his room.\u00a0 <\/span>He shut the door and sat on his bed with both letters in his hand.\u00a0 <\/span>Looking out the window to a bright early spring day, Jason wanted to make his father proud and go to Harvard, but his real desire was to go to M.I.T..\u00a0 <\/span>How could he make such a large decision on his own?\u00a0 <\/span>Jason didn\u2019t feel talking to his parents about his wanting to attend M.I.T. over Harvard would be easy; they were both Harvard alumni, so of course they would try to sway him to go to Harvard.\u00a0 <\/span>He decided to drive up to the Ponderosa and have a heart to heart talk with his poppy.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason always loved spending time with Adam\u2019s father, Ben.\u00a0 <\/span>His fondest memory of his grandfather was the day he got to spend with him all by himself as a child when Emily was sick with the chicken pox.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam and Jessica were divorced at the time and shared custody of the children.\u00a0 <\/span>Seeing their only son needed more \u201cguy time,\u201d they allowed him to spend weekends by himself on the Ponderosa with his poppy after they were married again and living in Carson City full-time.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason trusted the wisdom of his grandfather and he now needed his guidance on the huge life altering decision more than ever.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason picked up his iPhone and dialed Ben\u2019s number.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCartwright Residence, Ben speaking,\u201d boomed the voice on the other end. <\/span><\/p>\n

Hop Sing was the voice Jason would usually hear when he would call his poppy, but he was out grocery shopping, so Ben answered the phone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Poppy, it\u2019s Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>I was wondering if I could drive up to see you this afternoon if you weren\u2019t too busy.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0Harvard and M.I.T. have both accepted me.\u00a0 <\/span>I wanted to talk to you about which university I should attend.\u00a0 <\/span>You know Mom and Dad, they\u2019ll expect me to go to Harvard, but I\u2019m leaning toward M.I.T..\u00a0 <\/span>I guess I\u2019m in need of some of your wisdom.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy of course, Jason, you can come up, and we can talk.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m mighty proud of you, Son!\u00a0 <\/span>I know your parents will be 100% behind whichever decision you make, but come on up and we\u2019ll talk about it, okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Poppy!\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll be right up!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason grabbed the keys to his Toyota Rav4 along with his two acceptance letters, and he headed toward the garage.\u00a0 <\/span>He gave Jessica a quick kiss on the cheek as he passed through the kitchen where she was clearing out the dishwasher.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBe back after a while, Mom.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhoa, whoa, whoa, Jason, where are you going?\u00a0 <\/span>How long will you be?\u00a0 <\/span>Dad will be home in a few hours, and he\u2019s going to want to hear about your two acceptance letters.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going up to the Ponderosa for a little bit.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m going to talk to Poppy about both schools.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll be back in time for dinner, I promise.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAll right, Honey, drive safely.\u00a0 <\/span>Tell Poppy hello for me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason kissed his mother\u2019s cheek again and said, \u201cWill do, bye!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Just as Jason closed the door, the phone rang, it was Adam calling from work.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHey, it\u2019s me.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m going to be here a little longer than I anticipated today.\u00a0 <\/span>Doesn\u2019t Emily have her cheerleader tryouts today?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, they\u2019re next week.\u00a0 <\/span>She was practicing with a few of the girls from her JV squad who are also trying out.\u00a0 <\/span>The tryouts are next Friday.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, okay.\u00a0 <\/span>I guess I had my weeks messed up.\u00a0 <\/span>What about Jillian?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTonight\u2019s Diana\u2019s birthday slumber party.\u00a0 <\/span>Peggy picked both girls up from school today.\u00a0 <\/span>She’s taking them to get manicures and pedicures right after school before the rest of the girls came over for the slumber party tonight.\u00a0 <\/span>Which reminds me, I need to send Emily down with Jillian\u2019s sleeping bag and change of clothes for tomorrow.\u00a0 <\/span>What\u2019s up, Sweetheart?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh yes, the slumber party is tonight isn\u2019t it?\u00a0 <\/span>I hope she has a good time. I\u00a0 <\/span>thought since I was going to be getting home late, why don\u2019t we gather up the kids and take them out to dinner, but if Jillian\u2019s not there, I guess it\u2019ll just be you, me, Jason and Emily.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSounds great, Adam!\u00a0 <\/span>I was just trying to think what I could make for dinner.\u00a0 <\/span>I was so involved in paying bills and then an old high school friend of mine called, and we talked for a while, and before I knew it, Jason was home from school!\u00a0 <\/span>I didn\u2019t have anything thawed out.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, I\u2019ll give you a call when I\u2019m leaving the office.\u00a0 <\/span>I should be done by 7:00 P.M.\u00a0 <\/span>Why don\u2019t you think where you might like to go and let the kids know not to stray too far from the house.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason went to go see Dad, but he said he’ll be home before 7:00 P.M., but I\u2019ll call Dad just to make sure he boots him out in time to make it home before you get home.\u00a0 <\/span>By the way, Adam, he got a letter from both Harvard and M.I.T. today.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll let him fill you in on what they both said.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam leaned back in his leather executive chair and rubbed his balding salt and pepper head. \u201cOh, going to make the old man suffer are you?\u00a0 <\/span>I guess I\u2019ll have to make you pay for that suffering tonight in bed, Mrs. Cartwright,\u201d Adam said with a sexy tease in his voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh will you now, Mr. Cartwright?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica giggled.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI think I like the sound of your threat. When did you say you would be home?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica replied in the same sexy voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh brother, Mommy, and Daddy are at it again!\u00a0 <\/span>My poor virgin ears!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily teased as she walked in the room and overheard part of Jessica\u2019s conversation with Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, it seems our daughter has busted us again!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said, laughing.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily grabbed the phone from her mother, \u201cHi, Daddy, when are you coming home?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Princess.\u00a0 <\/span>I was just telling Mommy to choose a place to eat tonight, my treat.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m going to be a little late at the office, but I should be home by 7:00 P.M..\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, Daddy.\u00a0 <\/span>Since you\u2019re buying, we\u2019ll be sure to pick somewhere expensive, like Adele\u2019s!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily said jokingly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh,\u201d Adam said with a sound like she was killing him.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cYou know how to hurt a guy\u2019s wallet don\u2019t you, Princess?\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, after all, Daddy, Mommy and I are girls with very discriminating tastes!\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPrincess, pick some place nice, just a bit more casual than Adele\u2019s okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m just kidding, Daddy.\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy and I will put our heads together and pick someplace we all like.\u00a0 <\/span>I promise we\u2019ll be easy on your wallet, too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, Princess.\u00a0 <\/span>I need to get back to work.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve got a conference call in a few minutes and Heather\u2019s glaring at me to jump on.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll see you later.\u00a0 <\/span>Tell Mommy I had to go.\u00a0 <\/span>Love you! Bye.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBye, Daddy!\u00a0 <\/span>Love you more!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily hung the phone up and continued to the kitchen where Jessica had returned to resume putting up the clean dishes from the dishwasher. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy said he had to get on a conference call, and he told me and you to pick a place to go eat tonight, but to be easy on his wallet.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason arrived at the Ponderosa and found Ben outside sitting on his front porch.\u00a0 <\/span>After getting out of his Rav4, he walked over and gave his grandfather a hug.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood to see you, Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>Congratulations on being accepted to M.I.T. and Harvard.\u00a0 <\/span>Do you want to talk about the choices you need to make? Come on in, Son.\u00a0 <\/span>Let\u2019s go in the house and discuss both schools.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason helped his grandfather up and handed him the cane he now used to assist him with his walking.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hop Sing heard the front door open and came out of the kitchen to see who it was.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood afternoon, Master Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>How are you?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Hop Sing asked bowing and smiling.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m good, Hop Sing.\u00a0 <\/span>How are you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing good, very good.\u00a0 <\/span>Can I get Mr. Ben and Master Jason something to drink or eat?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing, how about a pot of coffee?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Ben requested.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFresh hot coffee coming up for Mr. Ben and Master Jason.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hop Sing scurried off to the kitchen, so Ben and Jason went to sit down in the great room; Ben in his large leather easy chair and Jason on the settee. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jason began by showing the two acceptance letters to his grandfather.\u00a0 <\/span>Ben put his reading glasses on and read over each of the letters and handed them back to Jason.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHave you told your parents you\u2019ve about being accepted to both these schools yet, Son?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMom knows.\u00a0 <\/span>She was home when the letters arrived.\u00a0 <\/span>We were talking about them when Emily came home from cheerleader practice, so she knows as well.\u00a0 <\/span>Dad\u2019s at work, so I guess I\u2019ll tell him tonight when I get home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason leaned forward and sat his elbows on his knees and looked at Ben with concern on his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHere\u2019s my problem, Poppy.\u00a0 <\/span>I know Dad wants me to go to Harvard.\u00a0 <\/span>He went to Harvard, and Mom went to Harvard, but my first choice is M.I.T..\u00a0 <\/span>The reputation of the university as a whole is fantastic, and I hate to say it, but I think their engineering school is better than Harvard\u2019s.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben laughed, \u201cDon\u2019t let your father hear you say that about his alma mater.\u00a0 <\/span>You might be sleeping with the fishes tonight if he did.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason laughed at his grandfather\u2019s fish remark, but he agreed.\u00a0 <\/span>His father was a die-hard Harvard man. <\/span><\/p>\n

Hop Sing brought in a carafe of coffee with two mugs.\u00a0 <\/span>He also brought fresh baked cookies for them to enjoy as well.\u00a0 <\/span>He poured each of them coffee, handed it to them, and quietly left the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo what does your mother say about your preference to go to M.I.T. more than Harvard?\u201d Ben asked as he took a sip of his brew, \u201cShe\u2019s a die-hard Harvard girl herself.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMom wants me to go where I\u2019m happy.\u00a0 <\/span>Of course, I know nothing would make her happier than for me to go to Harvard, but Mom just wants to see me happy.\u00a0 <\/span>I haven\u2019t told her my real desire is to go to M.I.T. so she might want me sleeping with the fishes also if she knew my feelings about M.I.T. versus Harvard.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben and Jason shared another hardy laugh together. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSon, I wish I had some magic spell I could place on you which would make the talk with your parents easier.\u00a0 <\/span>Unfortunately, I don\u2019t have one, but what I will tell you is you\u2019re becoming a grown man.\u00a0 <\/span>In a few months, you\u2019ll be preparing to graduate high school and head off to college, where ever it might be.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019ll be on your own from there on out.\u00a0 <\/span>Oh sure, Mom and Dad will be supporting you as you continue your studies, but you\u2019ll be making day to day decisions which will not only affect you but others around you.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019ve always been mature beyond your years, so I don\u2019t suspect when you move away from anything will change, but decisions like this are one of the first steps taken when you become a man.\u00a0 <\/span>You can\u2019t let how your mom and dad affect the decision you make on which school to choose.\u00a0 <\/span>You have to do what is right by Jason Cartwright.\u00a0 Y<\/span>our education is not your mother\u2019s or your father\u2019s.\u00a0 <\/span>Will they be disappointed that you chose M.I.T. over Harvard?\u00a0 <\/span>Perhaps, but one thing I know for sure, your mother and father are very proud of you and all you\u2019ve accomplished.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re going to make a great engineer, and Cartwright, Incorporated will welcome you with open arms when you graduate.\u00a0 <\/span>No matter what school you attend.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPoppy, I knew I could count on you to give me great advice.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll miss you when I\u2019m gone.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>He always enjoyed the time he got to spend with his grandson.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cYou\u2019ll be home for holidays and school breaks.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll catch up then.\u00a0 <\/span>We have email and video chat.\u00a0 <\/span>I expect you to keep me up to date on what you\u2019re doing out there in Cambridge, MA.\u00a0 <\/span>Who knows, you might find a sweet young filly like your father did.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Ben winked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason\u2019s eyes widened, and then he blushed.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cYeah, we’ll see.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve dated a little bit in high school but, I don\u2019t know, I just haven\u2019t found anyone I\u2019ve wanted to date.\u00a0 <\/span>There\u2019s one girl in my class who also applied to M.I.T..\u00a0 <\/span>Her name is Cheryl.\u00a0 <\/span>We get along pretty good.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s smart, and she\u2019s quite a looker too, Poppy.\u00a0 <\/span>We’ve both put our school work first, so there\u2019s no time for dating.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, you have to find the right balance.\u00a0 <\/span>Life is too short always to have your nose in your books.\u00a0 <\/span>I think your father will tell you that, too!\u00a0 <\/span>Part of growing up and becoming a man is knowing when to close the books and open your heart.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m not saying this Cheryl is someone you need to develop a relationship with, but don\u2019t turn your back on the chance at having a relationship with someone just because you have a lot on your plate with school.\u00a0 <\/span>Learn to prioritize and it will all work out.\u00a0 <\/span>I think your mom and dad are living proof you can go to school and fall in love, too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad made a mess of his and Mom\u2019s marriage. \u00a0When they split, it was so painful, Poppy.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve never shared it with them before, but Emily and I have talked about how their divorce affected us.\u00a0 <\/span>We were so happy when they got married again.\u00a0 <\/span>I hope Jillian never has to feel the pain we felt of seeing our parents not loving each other.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason said, sadly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t wish that on any child, Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>It was a hard time for all of us to see your mother and father split up,\u201d Ben sighed deeply.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben looked at his watch, and it was going on 6:00 P.M.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cYour mom called when you were on your way up here.\u00a0 <\/span>Your dad will be getting home from the office soon, and she wants you to be home when he arrives, so I had strict instructions to send you on your way in time to get home by 7:00 P.M. so you best get moving in case there\u2019s some Friday night traffic.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason stood up and put his hand out to help his grandfather get up.\u00a0 <\/span>He gave him a tight hug and thanked him for his advice on how to break the news to his parents.\u00a0 <\/span>Ben walked Jason to the door, and he waved as he got into his car and left.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

Shortly before 7:00 P.M.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam walked through the door of the garage.\u00a0 <\/span>He saw Jason\u2019s car was gone and wondered where he was because Jessica said he would be home before 7:00 P.M.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHello! I\u2019m home!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam yelled to the dark house.<\/span><\/p>\n

As he walked down the hall, he saw a light coming from under Emily\u2019s door.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam could hear music playing.\u00a0 <\/span>He knocked on the door, and Emily answered the phone in her hand.\u00a0 <\/span>When she saw her father, she told her girlfriend she would call her back and leaped into his arms with a big hug.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Daddy!\u00a0 <\/span>How was your day?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam gave Emily a kiss on her forehead and hugged her back.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cIt was busy, Princess.\u00a0 <\/span>Where\u2019s everyone at?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJillian\u2019s spending the night with Diana, Mom\u2019s in your room getting dressed to go out to dinner, and Jason just called me to say he\u2019s hung up in traffic but should be home in about twenty minutes.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, I\u2019ll go change clothes while we wait for Jason to get home.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam closed Emily\u2019s bedroom door and headed to the bedroom he shared with Jessica. <\/span><\/p>\n

He found his wife in the bathroom just in her lace bra and matching panties putting on the final touches of her make-up. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam came up behind her and wrapped his arms around the curves of her waist.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cMmm, maybe I\u2019ll have you for dinner instead,\u201d he growled as he started nibbling on his wife\u2019s neck.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica turned in her husband\u2019s arms and began to unbutton Adam\u2019s shirt.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWell, we have about a half hour before Jason gets home.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>She purred.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam picked Jessica up and laid her gently on the bed in their bedroom.\u00a0 <\/span>He laid down next to her, unhooked the front closure of her bra and began to fondle her breasts as he explored her neck and chest with his tongue. <\/span><\/p>\n

Just as Adam felt his groin area rising,\u00a0 <\/span>Adam and Jessica heard a knock at their door.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cMom, Dad, I\u2019m home!\u00a0 <\/span>Sorry, I\u2019m late.\u00a0 <\/span>Traffic was bad as I got on the highway back to Carson City.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam rolled over and laid flat on the bed.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica hooked her bra back, turned over, caressed her husband\u2019s face and tenderly kissed his lips. \u201c To be continued tonight after the kids go to bed,\u201d she smiled. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m holding you to that, Babe.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam winked.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

After a Thai dinner in town, the Cartwrights returned home around 9:30 P.M.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam changed from his work suit into jeans, a knit shirt, and his favorite thick cardigan sweater.\u00a0 <\/span>The nights were still chilly in the valley and the Cartwright family often enjoyed late night talks in the three seasons room.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily headed straight for her room and, as she turned the corner, her cell phone rang; it was her best friend, Britney, and they were giggling before she even got to her room and closed the door. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica stayed in the kitchen and put a pot of coffee on while Adam went and changed clothes. <\/span><\/p>\n

When Adam came to the three seasons room, Jessica had lit the candles and turned on the heaters to take the chill out of the air.\u00a0 <\/span>She and Jason were sitting on the two chaise lounges sitting across from each other.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica saw Adam enter and hopped up to pour him a cup of coffee and invited him to sit down.\u00a0 <\/span>She handed him his mug, and she started to sit on the love seat which separated the two chaise lounges. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCom\u2019ere, sit on Daddy\u2019s lap,\u201d Adam patted his lap and winked at his wife. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica came and sat on Adam\u2019s lap, and he placed his arm around her waist.\u00a0 <\/span>She gave him a tender kiss on his lips, and they looked at each other with a loving glance.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI hope to find true love like you two have, Mom and Dad.\u00a0 <\/span>The girls and I have the best parents in the whole world.\u201d Jason said as he smiled proudly at his mother and father.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica\u2019s lip stuck out, and her eyes glistened in the candlelight at her son\u2019s beautiful words about the love she and Adam so freely exhibited in front of their children. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAwe, thanks, Honey.\u00a0 <\/span>As you know, it wasn\u2019t always a bed of roses,\u201d she said as she looked back at Adam with adoring eyes.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cThank goodness we found our way back to each other.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, your mother is beautiful and unique.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m thankful she wanted to take a chance with me again.\u00a0 <\/span>I never stopped loving her, even when we were divorced.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica laid her head on Adam\u2019s chest as they changed the subject back to their son and his educational future.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSon, I want you to know how extremely proud your mother and I are of you.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019ve worked so hard to get where you are today.\u00a0 <\/span>How\u2019s your standing in your class?\u00a0 <\/span>Are you still number one?\u201d Adam asked as he rubbed Jessica\u2019s hip and took a sip of his coffee.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, Carolyn Webber is still running second.\u00a0 <\/span>I think we\u2019ve got each other’s positions locked up.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s happy being number two, but she was something mad when I passed her up at mid-term.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think this summer, we need to take a trip to Cambridge and find an apartment for you, or do you want to live on campus?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPoppy and I made a trip to Cambridge the summer I graduated high school and found off campus housing for me.\u00a0 <\/span>I heard Harvard housing could get pretty rowdy at times, and I wanted to concentrate on my studies.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll be okay with campus housing if this is what you would rather choose, but we\u2019re prepared to find an apartment near Harvard if you want to take the same route your old man took.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason\u2019s form became stiff, and he turned his head toward the window looking out onto the backyard.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica saw the same look from her son earlier in the day.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it, Honey?\u00a0 <\/span>You seem troubled.\u00a0 <\/span>Is there something you need to discuss with us?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked, lifting her head off Adam\u2019s chest momentarily.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason started to fiddle his fingers, and he turned his attention from looking out the window to looking down at his hands.\u00a0 <\/span>He moved his hands as if he was going to speak, but then started to fiddle his fingers again.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica and Adam looked at each other with befuddled looks.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica got up and walked over next to her son and bent down next to him.\u00a0 <\/span>She ran her fingers through his short spiked hair and could see his eyes were pooling with tears.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason!\u00a0 <\/span>What\u2019s wrong, Honey?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked with a sad worry in her voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason sat for a few more moments trying to form the words he wanted to say. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI…I…I… don\u2019t want to go to Harvard, Mom and Dad.\u00a0 <\/span>My first choice has always been M.I.T..\u00a0 <\/span>I want to go to M.I.T..\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>The tears started to stream down his face.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI know you expect me to go to Harvard and carry on the Cartwright tradition and be a Harvard man like you, Dad, but I would be happier at M.I.T..\u00a0 <\/span>They have the most amazing electrical and mining engineering schools,\u201d his voice was shaking.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI…I…\u201d he continued to stutter over his words.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cM.I.T. is my first choice, it\u2019s where I want to go,\u201d he finally said with conviction.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica took her son into her embrace.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHoney, we want you to go where you want to go, not where we want you to go.\u00a0 <\/span>It’s your life, your education.\u00a0 <\/span>We don\u2019t want you to feel you have to go to Harvard because we went there.\u00a0 <\/span>We’re just excited you were even interested in applying.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam sat in his chaise lounge staring at his son.\u00a0 <\/span>His arms were resting on the handles, with his hands folded and his two pointer fingers stroking his mustache and beard.\u00a0 <\/span>When Jessica broke the embrace with her son, Adam spoke for the first time since hearing his son preferred M.I.T. over Harvard.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ve made a wise choice, Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>M.I.T. is world-renowned for their electrical and mine engineering schools.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019ve obviously done your homework.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I have, Dad,\u201d Jason interrupted as Jessica continued to rub her son\u2019s arm.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen we were in college, I had friends who knew people going to M.I.T., and they\u2019ve gone on to do amazing work in their fields.\u00a0 <\/span>Some of the most famous engineers have come out of M.I.T.,\u201d Jessica said as she went back to sit in Adam\u2019s lap.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad, I know how much you and mom wanted me to go Harvard.\u00a0 <\/span>I know you have bragged about me becoming a Harvard man like you.\u00a0 <\/span>It was a hard decision and not one I made lightly, but I think since I\u2019m more into the science end of engineering, M.I.T. is a better fit for me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cSon, I would never begrudge you going to another school other than Harvard just to have you be a Harvard man.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sorry if I gave you that impression, it was never my intent.\u00a0 <\/span>I guess I assumed you wanted to follow in your old man\u2019s footsteps when you told me you wanted to be an engineer and I thought Harvard would be your school of choice.\u00a0 <\/span>Since you\u2019ve always been stronger with the science end of things, it only makes sense you would want to go to M.I.T. as science is their focus.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks for understanding, Dad.\u00a0 <\/span>I guess I misjudged how you would accept my decision.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason smiled, and his body relaxed back into his chaise lounge. <\/span><\/p>\n

The three Cartwrights spent the next few hours making plans for everything from upcoming graduation parties to talking about dorm life versus buying a home, renting a condo or apartment in Cambridge for Jason to live in while attending M.I.T.. <\/span><\/p>\n

When the conversation became more about the engineering trade, Jessica\u2019s eyes began to get heavy, and she was dozing in and out of sleep.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam\u2019s broad chest and the thick sweater made a perfect pillow on which Jessica could rest her head.\u00a0 <\/span>The sound of Adam\u2019s gentle voice and strong heartbeat in her ear were catalysts to her drifting into slumberland.<\/span><\/p>\n

At one point, Jason looked at his mother sleeping quietly on his father\u2019s lap.\u00a0 <\/span>He pointed to her and mouthed to Adam, \u2018Look at Mom\u2019.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam looked down and saw Jessica sleeping soundly with a slight smile on her face.\u00a0 <\/span>Sleeping, Jessica looked content, but Adam knew she would be more comfortable in bed. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJess,\u201d he muttered quietly, looking down at her sleeping form.\u00a0 <\/span>When she didn\u2019t respond, he again said a little louder, \u201cJess, why don\u2019t you go on to bed?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica woke up abruptly and, with sleepy eyes, looked up at Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Smiling down at her, he dropped a gentle kiss on her forehead and softly said,\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWhy don\u2019t you go on to bed?\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019ll sleep more comfortably there.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Without argument, she sat up and rubbed her eyes.\u00a0 <\/span>She smiled at Adam and said, \u201cYeah, you\u2019re probably right.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

She leaned back down and gave him a kiss on the lips and then put her fingers in the bush of salt and pepper curly locks which were peeking out of his shirt.\u00a0 <\/span>In a sexy voice, she said, \u201cDon\u2019t be long, we need to pick up where we left off from earlier tonight.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s face grew warm, and Jason turned his head as he smiled broadly.\u00a0 <\/span>He wasn\u2019t stupid.\u00a0 <\/span>He knew what his mother meant.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJess, our son, is sitting right across from us, do you mind?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam said with a knowing smile to his son. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica looked back at her son and then back at Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cOh, Adam, Jason\u2019s a big boy, it\u2019s not like I\u2019m ripping your clothes off in front of him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason could hardly control his laughter at his mother\u2019s forwardness with his father.\u00a0 <\/span>He could see his father\u2019s face grow redder the more his mother spoke. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJessica!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam said with a large smile on his face. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, okay! I\u2019m going to bed!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica got up and went over to her son, bent down, gave him a kiss on his forehead and told him goodnight.\u00a0 <\/span>He still was trying desperately to hold in his giggles when he said, \u201cGoodnight, Mom.\u00a0 <\/span>See you in the morning.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

She then went back to Adam and bent down to kiss him tenderly on the lips.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI love you, Sweetheart, Goodnight.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam kissed her back and said, \u201cGoodnight. I love you, too,\u201d and gave her a loving slap on her bum as she turned to walk out of the three seasons room.<\/span><\/p>\n

When Jessica was gone, Jason busted out in laughter.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam\u2019s face turned a dark crimson.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cYour mother…\u201d he said shaking his head. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Dad, don\u2019t worry.\u00a0 <\/span>I like seeing you and mom still physically attracted and apparently still active with one another at your age.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s eyebrow cocked up, \u201cAre you inferring that we\u2019re old, Son?\u201d he said with a wry smile.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason laughed and tried to backtrack, \u201cOh no, Dad!\u00a0 <\/span>That\u2019s not what I meant.\u00a0 <\/span>I mean, it\u2019s just great to see you and Mom, well, you know…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam couldn\u2019t resist as he saw his son getting a little fidgety, so he decided to play along and make him wiggle a bit more, something Jessica loved to do with their children and Adam at times when she saw he was in a playful mood. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cKnow what, Son?\u00a0 <\/span>Are we still physically and sexually attracted to each other?\u00a0Yes.\u00a0<\/span>Oh, the thought of your parents having sex at our age!\u00a0 <\/span>I mean, after all, parents don\u2019t have sex do they?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam\u2019s usual reserve turned to one of playful banter with his son.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad, stop!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason said laughing hysterically, unable to hardly breathe he was laughing so hard. \u201cYou\u2019re embarrassing me!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m embarrassing you?\u00a0 <\/span>How do you think I felt?\u201d he said pointing his finger back at his chest. \u201cYour mother,\u201d Adam laughed and shook his head.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cOh my gosh, some of the things she lets out of her mouth sometimes.\u00a0 <\/span>Gosh, can I remember back when we first met?\u201d Adam wondered as he looked up at the ceiling and saw the flickering flame illuminating the entire room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan you tell me about how you and Mom met and fell in love, Dad?\u00a0 <\/span>I would love to hear it.\u201d Jason said with interest.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stopped and smiled at his son.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI would love to tell you about our days at Harvard, but first, I want to share something else with you.\u00a0 <\/span>Don\u2019t go away; I\u2019ll be right back.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam got up and went into the kitchen.\u00a0 <\/span>He took the tray with the carafe and mugs with him and placed them on the counter.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam returned with a couple of bottles of Coor\u2019s Light Beer in his hand.\u00a0 <\/span>He handed one of the cold bottles of brews to his son.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason looked up at him with a look of confusion.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u00a0 <\/span>I mean…\u201d Jason said as he continued to look at his father as he sat back down on his chaise lounge.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ve always wanted to take a drink of mine or Mom\u2019s beers when we would be drinking one.\u00a0 <\/span>I think it\u2019s time you had one of your own.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re nineteen.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re going to college in the fall.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re becoming a man.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam raised his bottle and said, \u201cHere\u2019s to going to M.I.T..\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason raised his bottle, and they each took a sip of the spirited brew. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNow this doesn\u2019t mean I condone underage drinking when you\u2019re at college nor does it mean you can go to a bar and pop back a few.\u00a0 <\/span>You may have a beer or two here at the house only when Mom or I am around, okay?\u00a0 <\/span>Drinking alcohol comes with responsibility, and I feel you’re old and mature enough to know when you can and cannot drink.\u00a0 <\/span>Once you\u2019re twenty-one, I won\u2019t have a say, but until then, it\u2019s only here at the house or on the Ponderosa, when you aren\u2019t driving, do I make myself clear?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Sir,\u201d Jason replied very matter of fact.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam raised his bottle again and smiled, \u201cNow, where were we?\u00a0 <\/span>Oh yeah, how your mother and I met and fell in love.\u201d Adam leaned back and lifted his eyes as if his mind was going back in time.<\/span><\/p>\n

Chapter Two<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was the fall of my freshman year. I was in my room getting the last of my things packed up to take with me to Harvard.\u00a0 <\/span>Uncle Joe, who was just eight at the time, came into my room and was crying because I was leaving.\u00a0 <\/span>We had lost our mother, Marie, just a few years before and since her death, Joe clung to me, and now I wasn\u2019t going to be home to mentor or protect him, and he was worried I wasn\u2019t coming back once I left.\u00a0 <\/span>I sat on my bed and took him into my arms assuring him I would always be available to him via the phone and mail.\u00a0 <\/span>Computers were just coming out, and there was no such thing as email just yet.\u00a0 <\/span>Joe wanted to tag along with Dad and me to Massachusetts, but Dad told him he had to stay back with Hop Sing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid you have a girlfriend in high school, Dad?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cOh yeah, Dana Bellows.\u00a0 <\/span>She was hot.\u00a0 <\/span>She was the captain of the drill team, and every guy had a crush on her in school, but she had eyes only for me.\u00a0 <\/span>We dated our junior and senior years of high school, but at the beginning of our senior year, her father was transferred to Germany when he promoted to Colonel.\u00a0 <\/span>He was a major in the Air Force stationed at Nellis Air Force Base, but the family lived up in Incline Village.\u00a0 <\/span>Her father would fly home on the weekends and stay in base housing during the week.\u00a0 <\/span>When her father transferred to Germany, her best friend\u2019s mother and father allowed her to stay in their home until the end of our senior year.\u00a0 <\/span>When we graduated, she left for Germany until the fall when she came back to the States to attend Georgetown.\u00a0 <\/span>We had said that we were going to keep in touch, but when she left, I never heard from her again.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam sighed deeply, remembering his high school crush.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe arrived in Cambridge on the move in day.\u00a0 <\/span>It was crazy! All the freshman students were working to find their way around the campus, and the seniors made themselves available to all of us to help answer any questions we might have had.\u00a0 <\/span>At first, I lived by myself in a two bedroom flat near campus.\u00a0 <\/span>After a few months, a fellow classmate and my future best friend, Steve, moved in with me because his dorm mate always wanted to sneak girls into their dorm, or he would stay out partying all night and come in late, drunk.\u00a0 <\/span>Steve was in pre-law, and I was studying engineering, but we shared a few core classes together; that\u2019s how we knew each other.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know you and Mom met in English class, but how did you start dating?\u00a0 <\/span>When did you know you were in love with each other?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason asked as he continued to enjoy his first beer with his father.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled as he started to recall the first time he laid eyes on Jessica, the girl he would one day call his wife.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cIt was the first day of school. Freshman English was the first class of the day for the both of us.\u00a0 <\/span>The professor had opened his classroom for early arrivals.\u00a0 <\/span>He was in his office, but knew from previous years, freshman students always were excited to start college and were still finding their way around the campus, so they arrived early.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour mother was one of the first to arrive.\u00a0 <\/span>The classroom was stadium seating, so she sat in the center about half way up.\u00a0 <\/span>When I walked in the classroom, there were already about a dozen students who had arrived.\u00a0 <\/span>I scanned the room and my eyes locked on the beautiful blonde who was reading a book and writing notes on a notepad.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam laughed.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cShe didn\u2019t see me staring at her or come and sit right behind her.\u00a0 <\/span>Her hair was long with soft curls draping down her back.\u00a0 <\/span>I was nervous sitting behind her; she was beautiful.\u00a0 <\/span>I could smell the cleanliness of the perfume she was wearing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWait a minute. The mighty Adam Cartwright was nervous and speechless?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason laughed at his father\u2019s demeanor with his future mother.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWow, I would have never thought you, mister calm cool, and collected could be nervous about a girl.\u00a0 <\/span>Priceless, Dad!\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAlright, Jason, we\u2019ll see what happens to you when you meet your future wife one day,\u201d Adam winked at his son smiling.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHA! That will be at least another ten years from now.\u00a0 <\/span>I want to focus on college first, graduate, and get settled in a job before I even begin to think about a girlfriend or marriage, Dad!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled and laughed at his son\u2019s convictions and plans for his life.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cJason, you\u2019re a chip off the old block.\u00a0 <\/span>Those were my plans, too, but as you see, God had something else in mind for your mother and I.\u00a0 <\/span>It could happen to you, too, so don\u2019t be so closed-minded to finding your life\u2019s mate while you\u2019re in college.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAs more students arrived, and they were sitting around the both of us.\u00a0 <\/span>We both smiled and said hello to those around us.\u00a0 <\/span>Soon, the teacher entered, and we started class.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour mother was very focused on the teacher, but I was having a hard time concentrating because I was trying to devise a way to meet this beautiful girl.\u00a0 <\/span>That\u2019s when the professor suggested we get to know other students in the class by developing study groups for the semester.\u00a0 <\/span>He said it would be beneficial as we would be studying several of Shakespeare\u2019s works and it would benefit everyone to gain a different perspective on his work as we each analyzed each play.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs this when you made your big move, Dad?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason asked, putting his empty bottle on the ground next to his chaise lounge.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was your mother who turned to me first! She spoke to the two girls on each side of her and then turned around to me; my heart melted when I laid eyes on her gorgeous face close up for the first time. Her piercing blue eyes…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, Mom does have gorgeous eyes.\u00a0 <\/span>She knows how to use them to get what she wants, too!\u201d Jason laughed as he remembered times when he had seen joy, hurt, disappointment, and anger in her eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam agreed and continued with his story.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWe locked eyes, and she bowed her head and rolled up her eyes and smiled as she said, \u2018Hi, my name\u2019s, Jessica Bradley.\u2019\u00a0 <\/span>I still remember her soft hand when she extended hers to shake mine.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSounds like she was pretty smitten with you, too.\u00a0 <\/span>Did you freeze?\u00a0 <\/span>Did you introduce yourself?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason prodded his father because Adam was getting lost in his memories.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam came back to the present and shook his head, \u201cYeah, I said, my name is Adam, Adam Cartwright.\u00a0 <\/span>Your mother then replied, \u2018Julie, Stephanie, and I are teaming up, and we would like to have some men in our group for the male perspective, would you like to join us?\u2019\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAww, Dad, you scored! You were able to get in the gorgeous girl\u2019s study group! Nice.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re a real smooth operator.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason teased his father.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAt first, your mother was only interested in my male perspective, but it was a few weeks into the school year when we went to have coffee at the Au Bon Pan near the Harvard subway stop that we found we had a lot of common interest.\u00a0 <\/span>We studied with the group at the student center, and when we ended our session that evening, I walked her home.\u00a0 <\/span>When we started to part ways, I finally got the nerve to ask her if she wanted to have coffee and discuss further how Shakespeare used dark and light in his writings as well as the dramatic structure.\u00a0 <\/span>When we finished our coffee date that night, I asked her if I could walk her back to her dorm.\u00a0 <\/span>She accepted and took my arm.\u00a0 <\/span>We walked back and talked about our love for Shakespeare.\u00a0 <\/span>When we reached her building, I knew it was now or never to ask her out again.\u00a0 <\/span>I got up the nerve to ask her to dinner the next night since it was Saturday; she said yes, and that\u2019s where it all started.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo, when did you know you wanted to marry Mom, Dad?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason queried. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam started to blush.\u00a0 <\/span>He felt his son was old enough and mature enough to know when he knew he wanted to marry his mother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour mother and I had been dating casually for the first few months.\u00a0 <\/span>I dated a few other girls who I had met, and she did the same with other guys, but it was just before Halloween we realized we enjoyed each other\u2019s company and we were becoming close, so Jessica and I decided to be exclusive with each other.\u00a0 <\/span>Mom invited me to her home in Connecticut for Thanksgiving.\u00a0 <\/span>She thought I would turn her down because I had family out west.\u00a0 <\/span>I was serious about her by the holidays, and I wanted to meet her parents, so I told her I would come, much to my father\u2019s objections.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat did Poppy say when he found out you weren\u2019t coming home for Thanksgiving, Dad?\u00a0 <\/span>I bet he was angry!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason sat up in his lounge chair and grabbed a blanket from the love seat next to him.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam shuttered when he recalled his father\u2019s disappointment at his decision to stay back east for the first major holiday since he\u2019d left for college.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI got the biggest lecture of my life! Dad said Joe was counting down the days until I was to come home.\u00a0 <\/span>You know how you and Emily used to do that when you were younger?\u00a0 <\/span>Uncle Joe started it.\u00a0 <\/span>He told me I had family obligations and people who depended on me, missed me.\u00a0 <\/span>I told Dad I understood I was disappointing everyone with my decision, but this girl meant a lot to me, and she could be the one.\u00a0 <\/span>Dad finally relented and didn\u2019t insist I come home, but he made me tell your Uncle Joe myself that I wasn\u2019t coming back until Christmas.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPoor Uncle Joe.\u00a0 <\/span>How\u2019d he take it?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad said he was not going to break his heart; I would have to do it.\u00a0 <\/span>It killed me to have to tell my two brothers, especially Joe, that I wasn\u2019t coming home.\u00a0 <\/span>Joe cried so hard, I remember.\u201d Adam\u2019s voice cracked with the painful memory.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHe told me he didn\u2019t love me anymore, and he wanted another brother.\u00a0 <\/span>It was devastated when I heard the hurt and disappointment in his voice.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad, I’m so sorry about Uncle Joe,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason said somberly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAs if hurting Joe wasn\u2019t bad enough, Hoss didn\u2019t take it much better.\u00a0 <\/span>He was so angry with me. He would have to be the one to pick up Joe\u2019s broken heart; the heart I shattered.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam\u2019s face grew long and tears glistened his eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo you met Papa and Nana for the first time at Thanksgiving, then?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The smile returned to Adam\u2019s face.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cOh yeah, did I ever.\u00a0 <\/span>I sometimes wondered why I just didn\u2019t go home to the Ponderosa!\u00a0 <\/span>Papa was hard on me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean, Dad?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason\u2019s curiosity peeked. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour grandfather was a Yale man, Jason, and a proud one at that.\u00a0 <\/span>He was so upset when his daughter decided to go to Harvard and not Yale.\u00a0 <\/span>Now she was bringing home a boyfriend who she met at Harvard.\u00a0 <\/span>It was like the Spanish Inquisition.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWow, I would have never thought Papa could be so harsh like that.\u00a0 <\/span>He was always so gentle and kind from what I remember about him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe was a great man, Jason, no doubt,\u201d Adam smiled at the memories he had of his father-in-law, \u201cbut he was a proud Yale man, and it bothered him the entire time your mother was going to Harvard that she wasn\u2019t going to Yale.\u00a0 <\/span>He almost lost it when she wanted to bring home a boy from Harvard, too.\u00a0 <\/span>She only had one other serious relationship in her life and guess where that boy went…?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYale, I bet,\u201d Jason answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYep,\u201d Adam replied.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cThe night before Thanksgiving, after we arrived, I heard all about your mother’s other boyfriend, Lonny Douglas.\u00a0 <\/span>When I left, Mom assured me she did not have any contact with Lonny anymore, and they had broken up the summer before she came to Harvard, and it was because she found out he was seeing another girl.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe rivalry between Harvard and Yale must run deep, huh?\u00a0 <\/span>I mean for Papa to talk about an old flame mom had in high school just because he was going to Yale.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou have no idea, Son.\u00a0 <\/span>I was uncomfortable.\u00a0 <\/span>Back at my hotel room that night, I wondered why I just didn\u2019t go home for Thanksgiving.\u00a0 <\/span>Then I thought about your mother and how much she meant to me.\u00a0 <\/span>She called me after I got back to the hotel and cried at how her father treated me.\u00a0 <\/span>I told her he was only trying to protect his little girl, but I survived the evening and Thursday was a new day.\u00a0 <\/span>I wanted desperately to be there to hold her and dry her tears.\u00a0 <\/span>It was then I knew I was falling in love with her, and I wasn\u2019t going to let her father get the best of me or our relationship.\u00a0 <\/span>I had to prove to him I was a stand-up guy, even though I went to Harvard.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo? I guess you won him over that weekend? I mean, Mom eventually married you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe loosened up, and we had a great holiday together.\u00a0 <\/span>I think Nana must have spoken to him because he was much friendlier on Thanksgiving Day and the rest of the weekend.\u00a0 <\/span>Your Nana loved me from the moment she met me.\u00a0 <\/span>She saw how Jess looked at me, and she later told me she knew Jessica had finally found the man she would one day marry.\u00a0 <\/span>As I got to know her father, he saw I was a good kid, raised with good morals, and how I liked his daughter a lot.\u00a0 <\/span>He was good to me until the day he died.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo when did you finally know you were in love and wanted to marry Mom?\u201d Jason asked again.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled and his eyes closed as his mind drifted back twenty plus years. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was December of the same year.\u00a0 <\/span>We had returned from her parents\u2019 home just a few weeks before.\u00a0 <\/span>We were studying for finals.\u00a0 <\/span>Steve had gone to his friends\u2019 dorms to study for his classes.\u00a0 <\/span>We ordered a pizza, and I started a fire because it was a cold and windy night.\u00a0 <\/span>A blizzard came out of nowhere it seemed, so Steve called and said he was going to crash at his friends\u2019 dorm.\u00a0 <\/span>Your mom and I sat by the fire, eating pizza, drinking beer, and studying Romeo and Juliet.\u00a0 <\/span>At first, we made our arguments for our take on theme, imagery, dramatic structure and symbols of the play and the characters.\u00a0 <\/span>We started reading the parts; I was Romeo of course, and your mother, Juliet.\u00a0 <\/span>We became so engulfed in the parts; our love showed through in the characters we played.\u00a0 <\/span>We ended up making passionate love to each other for the first time.\u00a0 <\/span>I knew that night I wanted to marry your mother.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid Mom know you knew you wanted her to be your wife then?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, it was not until our senior year when I proposed to her; we got engaged at Christmas.\u00a0 <\/span>I told her years later; it was while we were divorced, I knew I was making love to my future wife.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWow, Dad, I\u2019m shocked.\u00a0 <\/span>Mom\u2019s always been an advocate not to have sex before marriage.\u00a0 <\/span>It surprises me she would have given into temptation like she did.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think your mother knew I was the one for her too, Son.\u00a0 <\/span>She was not the type to sleep around like a lot of the students at Harvard did.\u00a0 <\/span>She had morals, and that\u2019s one of the things I loved about her the most.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, but…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour mother advocates sex only in the confines of marriage because of our circumstances when we were divorced.\u00a0 <\/span>Your mother and I made love for the first time since our divorce on Emily\u2019s fifth birthday and your sister, Jillian, was conceived that night.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason\u2019s eyes widened, \u201cOh my gosh, Dad! I remember! Emily woke up crying! She couldn\u2019t get in your room because the door was locked.\u00a0 <\/span>Why would Emily have gone to the guest bedroom? She used to come to your room when we stayed with you at the Ponderosa.\u00a0 <\/span>I remember her crying woke me up and I tried to console her, but she wanted you.\u00a0 <\/span>Finally, you came to the door and let her in.\u00a0 <\/span>I remember Mom being in bed with you and wondering why she was there!\u201d Jason got a big grin on his face, \u201cYou and Mom, huh? No wonder it took you so long to open the door.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam tried to brush off his son\u2019s smirk and insinuation. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI knew I loved your mother.\u00a0 <\/span>I had never stopped loving her.\u00a0 <\/span>I told her that night I wanted to work at putting our marriage back together again.\u00a0 <\/span>Aren\u2019t you glad we did?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh yeah, no doubt, Dad.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m glad Jillian\u2019s never had to experience you and Mom being split up.\u00a0 <\/span>It was a rough time for Emily and me.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam could see the hurt in his son\u2019s face as he went back to the time when he and his sister had to split their time between their mother\u2019s home in Carson City and Adam\u2019s at the Ponderosa.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s 3:00 A.M. Son.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s been a long day.\u00a0 <\/span>How bout we call it a night?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason grabbed his empty beer bottle, got up, and put out his hand to get Adam\u2019s bottle.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam gave his bottle to his son, and Jason took them into the kitchen and tossed them in the glass recycling.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam met him at the hall, and when they reached Jason\u2019s room, Adam hugged his son.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m very proud of you, Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m excited for your future at M.I.T..\u00a0 <\/span>I think you made a perfect choice.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason smiled and hugged his father tight.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cThanks for tonight, Dad.\u00a0 <\/span>Thanks for being so open and honest with everything.\u00a0 <\/span>Thanks for sharing the beer, too!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam returned his son\u2019s hug and held him tightly.\u00a0 <\/span>He was excited to see his son embark on a new journey of his life.\u00a0 <\/span>His \u2018Tiger\u2019 was now a young man, ready to face the world independently.<\/span><\/p>\n

When Jason closed his door, Adam walked to the room he shared with his wife, Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>He entered quietly and found she had left the lamp on low on his side.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam went into the closet and took off his jeans, sweater, and shirt.\u00a0 <\/span>He went over to the bed and found his wife sleeping soundly; she was naked.\u00a0 <\/span>She must have given up on me with her promise to continue where we had left off earlier, he thought to himself with a smile on his face.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam stripped off his boxers, climbed into bed, and cuddled up next to his woman.\u00a0 <\/span>He thought about assaulting her body with loving caresses and kisses to wake her up to re-create their night at Cambridge, but watching her sleep soundly; Adam thought he would just let her continue with her dreams.\u00a0 <\/span>They could pick up where they left off in the morning.<\/span><\/p>\n

Chapter Three<\/b><\/p>\n

As the first semester of his freshman year at college ended, Jason prepared to make his way back home to Carson City for the extended holiday break between semesters.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason had made the adjustment to college and living independently well.\u00a0 <\/span>He made a point of taking a few hours out of each Sunday night to call his parents or his poppy to keep them up to date on the happenings around Cambridge, MA. and M.I.T.. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jason excelled in all of his classes and expected his transcript to have all A\u2019s.\u00a0 <\/span>He knew his parents would be pleased with his grades and be happy their money would not go to waste at M.I.T..\u00a0 <\/span>Early in the semester, while at M.I.T. Coop buying textbooks, Jason had found a bumper sticker at the bookstore which read, My Son and My Money Go To M.I.T.<\/em>.\u00a0 <\/span>He thought it was funny and sent one to his dad in the mail as a gag gift along with a sweatshirt for his mother which said, M.I.T. MOM<\/em>.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam found the bumper sticker amusing and concurred with the statement. Jessica loved her gift and wore it proudly as the days grew colder in Nevada. <\/span><\/p>\n

Emily talked to her brother often.\u00a0 <\/span>She missed him but enjoyed being the top child at home while older brother was away at school.\u00a0 <\/span>She had often felt during Jason\u2019s junior and senior years in high school their parents had put a lot of focus on Jason and his preparation for college.\u00a0 <\/span>It left Emily and Jillian feeling a bit neglected.\u00a0 <\/span>The accomplishments she made didn\u2019t seem to matter to her parents as much, Emily felt.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily had always had a close relationship with her father, but at times, it was strained as Jason prepared to graduate from high school.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam and Jessica brushed off Emily\u2019s accusations they loved Jason more than she or her sister, Jillian.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily would find ways to act out, trying to gain the attention she felt was lacking.\u00a0 <\/span>At the same time, she often felt her punishment was too severe for the shenanigans she would try and pull to gain her parents\u2019 attention she felt was focused on Jason. <\/span><\/p>\n

Emily was excited to see her brother again and spend time with him but wondered if the focus would again be taken from her and put back on her brother during his month long stay in Nevada.<\/span><\/p>\n

It was the weekend before Christmas week; Jessica and Adam had been out doing final shopping for all three of the children.\u00a0 <\/span>Since this would most likely be the last year Santa Claus would be real in Jillian\u2019s eyes, they wanted to make her Santa Claus experience magical.\u00a0 <\/span>Even though Jason and Emily knew there was no longer a Santa Claus, he still brought them gifts along with Jillian’s.\u00a0 <\/span>Both the older Cartwright siblings played up Santa Claus with their younger sister and enjoyed seeing the excitement in her eyes as she would tell them about the toys she asked Santa to bring her and the glow on her face when Jillian saw he had brought what she wanted. <\/span><\/p>\n

When Jessica and Adam arrived home, as they were taking their coats off Emily came out of her room to tell them Jason had called and wanted them to call him at his apartment in Cambridge.\u00a0 <\/span>The hour was late in Massachusetts because the time difference of three hours.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily told her parents Jason would be up late studying, so it didn\u2019t matter what time it was when they called; he would be pulling an all-night study session.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason was sitting at the dining room table with his books and notes scattered about the table top when the phone rang, breaking his concentration.\u00a0 <\/span>Judging by the time, he knew it had to be his parents calling.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHello?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason answered as he closed his books taking a break from studying.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Honey, Emily said you had called?\u00a0 <\/span>Your dad and I were out doing some last minute shopping.\u00a0 <\/span>By the way, your box of presents arrived via FedEx today.\u00a0 <\/span>I opened it and put the wrapped gifts under the tree for you.\u00a0 <\/span>What\u2019s up, Honey?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said as Adam brought her a cup of hot tea and got on the extension.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Son.\u00a0 <\/span>How are finals coming?\u00a0 <\/span>Are you packed ready to head west the day after tomorrow?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked as he took a drink of his coffee.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Mom and Dad.\u00a0 <\/span>Finals are almost over.\u00a0 <\/span>I have one more final in industrial engineering, and then I’ll be finished.\u00a0 <\/span>I have my bags packed, and I\u2019ll be at Logan Airport bright and early Saturday morning for my flight back to Reno.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m looking forward to seeing everyone!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re excited to see you too, Honey.\u00a0 <\/span>We can\u2019t wait for you to get home.\u00a0 <\/span>I washed your sheets and dusted your furniture.\u00a0 <\/span>Your room is ready to be lived in again, even if it is only for a month,\u201d Jessica pouted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAwe, Mom, thanks!\u00a0 <\/span>I miss you guys, too, and it\u2019ll be great to be back home to see everyone and spend time with the family.\u00a0 <\/span>Which brings me to something I want to discuss with you two,\u201d Jason\u2019s tone turned to a seriousness neither Adam nor Jessica had ever heard before.\u00a0 <\/span>They looked at each other and wondered if this was the main reason for his call.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMom, Dad, I\u2019ve met someone.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s a great girl, and we\u2019re getting along very well.\u00a0 <\/span>I was wondering if she could come and spend part of the holidays with us?\u00a0 <\/span>I mean, not Christmas Day, but she would fly out the day after Christmas and stay through New Year\u2019s Day and then go back home to Connecticut until we go back to school at the end of January.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Jessica were speechless.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam smiled as he remembered back to their late night conversation shortly before Jason graduated high school, but Jessica\u2019s face showed shock that her son had met someone he felt serious enough about to bring home during the holidays.\u00a0 <\/span>The silence on the line seemed like a lifetime for Jason.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo you\u2019ve met someone, Honey?\u00a0 <\/span>I take it you\u2019ve been dating her a little while now?\u00a0 <\/span>How come you\u2019ve never mentioned her to us?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica inquired, but Adam understood and remained silent.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMom,\u201d Jason\u2019s voice was fidgety, \u201cShe\u2019s a great girl; I met her at the end of September, and, I didn\u2019t tell you about her until I was sure of what she meant to me.\u00a0 <\/span>I waited until I knew she was someone it felt like I wanted you guys to meet.\u00a0 <\/span>I hope you understand.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Wanting to protect her son as if he were still a little boy, Jessica was about to lecture her son about showing them respect and allowing them to meet any girls he wanted to date from the beginning of their relationship, but Adam held up his hand as if to tell Jessica to back off. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSon, are you serious about this girl?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, Dad, she\u2019s special.\u00a0 <\/span>I want you, Mom, and the rest of the family to meet her.\u00a0 <\/span>I bought her a plane ticket to come out and visit for a week.\u00a0 <\/span>I hope you don\u2019t mind.\u00a0 <\/span>Is it okay if she stays in the guest room or can we stay at our home on the Ponderosa?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, I don\u2019t think…\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica started in, but Adam stopped her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, if you think staying at the ranch home would give you two more privacy, we\u2019re okay with it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica looked at Adam with shock.\u00a0 <\/span>She wondered if her husband had lost his mind, but she sat quietly.\u00a0 <\/span>She planned to have a serious discussion about the invitation for his son to stay with a girl in their ranch home alone later.<\/span><\/p>\n

Trying to keep her anger toward her husband at bay and show a united front, Jessica turned on a supportive tone in her voice and asked Jason if his girlfriend had a name.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHer name is Brianna, Mom.\u00a0 <\/span>She reminds me so much of you,\u201d Jason smiled thinking about his new love.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cShe has strawberry blonde hair, the biggest amber eyes you\u2019ve ever seen, and a smile which will stop a train.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason\u2019s voice was mesmerized when he described his new love to his parents.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cShe\u2019s full of life!\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s smart, witty, and is fun to be around.\u00a0 <\/span>She knows how to cheer me up when I\u2019m feeling down.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe sounds very special, Jason,\u201d Adam commented as he stared at Jessica as if he was telling her not to say anything not supportive.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou say she\u2019s from Connecticut, Jason?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked, \u201cDoes she go to M.I.T. as well?\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Mom, she goes to Wellesley; she\u2019s a history major with a minor in education.\u00a0 <\/span>I met her at an M.I.T.\/Wellesley\/Harvard mixer they had just after school started.\u00a0 <\/span>She loves history, about the old west in particular, but she\u2019s never had the opportunity to visit so I asked her, if it was okay with her parents, if she would like to come out west for a week and spend some time with me and meet my family.\u00a0 <\/span>I thought I could show her the Ponderosa, maybe Virginia City, and if we have time, go skiing.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s very much into sports.\u00a0 <\/span>Is it okay with you, Mom?\u00a0 <\/span>Dad?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe look forward to meeting your new girlfriend, Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>What is her name again?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBrianna, Dad, but everyone calls her Brie for short.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe look forward to meeting Brianna when she comes.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI need to get back to studying, so I\u2019m going to let you go.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll see you on Saturday.\u00a0 <\/span>I love you!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe love you too, Honey.\u00a0 <\/span>We can\u2019t wait to see you, too!\u00a0 <\/span>Take care and don\u2019t stay up too late.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, Mom. Bye!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBye Honey.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Jessica hung up the two cordless phones, sat and stared at each other for a few moments not saying a word.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat was that all about?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica started in on Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam got up and went into the kitchen to put his empty mug in the dishwasher and to hang up the other phone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat was what, Jess?\u00a0 <\/span>Jason’s new girlfriend he’s bringing home?\u00a0 <\/span>What\u2019s wrong with that?\u00a0 <\/span>Sends a strong signal to me how he feels about this girl, and that he wants to bring her home to meet us.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Adam, I don\u2019t mind him having a new girl he wants us to meet, but what\u2019s this about you giving him your, no, our blessing to stay at our home on the Ponderosa!\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t think it\u2019s a good idea, do you?\u00a0 <\/span>Why would you allow our son and a girl we don’t know to stay at our house alone?\u00a0 <\/span>Has all this holiday shopping made you lose your mind?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>She argued, following him into the kitchen with her mug.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam grabbed Jessica\u2019s mug and placed them both in the dishwasher, closed the door, and turning back to her, he leaned on the counter and said, \u201cWhat\u2019s the problem, Jess?\u00a0 <\/span>Our son is a grown boy.\u00a0 <\/span>I trust him to do the right thing.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>He then walked around Jessica and headed toward their bedroom, leaving Jessica standing in the kitchen with her arms folded around her waist.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo the right thing, Adam?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica\u2019s voice began to rise as she met up with him in the hall to their bedroom.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam turned swiftly around and put his hand on Jessica\u2019s mouth.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cDo you mind holding your voice down?\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s late, and Jillian\u2019s probably sleeping!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

When Adam released his hand from Jessica\u2019s mouth, anger filled her eyes, and she whispered, \u201cDon\u2019t ever place your hand over my mouth like that again, Adam Cartwright!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam rolled his eyes and continued into the bedroom and went into the closet to take off his clothes.\u00a0 <\/span>He took off his shirt and came back out to continue his argument on why he didn\u2019t see a problem with Jason spending a week at their home on the Ponderosa with his new girlfriend.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLook, Jess, we were once young and in love as well,\u201d he argued while taking his pants off.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWe appreciated the privacy your parents and my father always gave us when we were at their homes with each other.\u00a0 <\/span>Why can\u2019t we extend the same courtesy to our son with his new girlfriend?<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy sentiments exactly, Adam!\u00a0 <\/span>They\u2019re young and in love!\u00a0 <\/span>Leaving them to have the whole house to themselves could lead to them…\u201d Jessica said as she removed her blouse.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat, Jess, having sex?\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t think you give your son enough credit with his respect towards women.\u00a0 <\/span>Especially a woman he seems to care deeply about.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam was now only wearing his boxers, continued his argument for why they should trust their son as he went into the bathroom to brush his teeth.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s a young man with raging hormones, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>A beautiful girl, a gorgeous setting, you\u2019re just inviting them to be romantic with each other!\u00a0 <\/span>I think she\u2019d be better off staying in Jason’s room here and Jason in the den,\u201d Jessica argued.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam turned around and smiled at his wife standing behind him in just her bra and panties with her hands on her hips.\u00a0 <\/span>He took her into his arms and said, \u201cAgain, I say, we were once young and in love, too.\u00a0 <\/span>We made love for the first time when we were both freshman in college.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica pounded Adam\u2019s bare chest.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cIt\u2019s not the same, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason is who we’re talking about, not us!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica wriggled out of Adam\u2019s hold and went back into the bedroom to take down the comforter to prepare their bed for sleeping. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam followed Jessica into the bedroom and came up behind her and began to kiss her neck. \u201cDo you know how sexy you are when you try to fight in just your panties?\u201d he said as he unbuttoned Jessica\u2019s bra, exposing her breasts to his hands. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica slapped Adam\u2019s hands, as she knew his points were all valid.\u00a0 <\/span>But not wanting to let it go until her point was understood, she tried to continue her argument; she was slowly losing the battle as her nipples became erect and hard under his fondling hands and she became putty in Adam\u2019s arms. <\/span><\/p>\n

She laid her head on her husband\u2019s chest and closed her eyes, \u201cBut he\u2019s only nineteen, Adam. I don\u2019t want him to…\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>She could no longer speak as Adam put his hands down into Jessica\u2019s panties and lowered them to where they puddled to the floor. <\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

Saturday morning came, and the four Cartwrights prepared to leave for the Reno Airport to pick up Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica proudly wore her pink M.I.T. MOM<\/em> sweatshirt with a white turtle neck shirt underneath with a pair of stone washed jeans. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam started putting breakfast together when Emily came into the kitchen. \u201cWhy aren\u2019t you dressed, Princess?\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll be leaving for the airport in a little while!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam said as he put a fresh kettle of water on the stove so Emily and Jessica could have tea with their breakfast. <\/span><\/p>\n

Emily was wearing her pink heart pajamas, and her hair was a mess.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cDaddy, I love Jason, but now that he\u2019s coming home, are you and Mom going to neglect Jillie and me again?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily pouted.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam turned the stove on to medium heat for the kettle and turned to his daughter and took her into his arms.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWhat do you mean by that statement, Princess?\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Emily began to cry. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it, Em?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam\u2019s voice grew with concern as he rubbed his daughter\u2019s back trying to console her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou still don\u2019t get it do you, Daddy?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily asked through her tears. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGet what, Princess?\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t understand what you mean?\u00a0 <\/span>We neglect you and Jillian when Jason\u2019s home?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJillie and I feel like you and Mom put all of your focus on Jason and all his accomplishments and don\u2019t care about us.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam pulled away a bit and lifted Emily\u2019s face to look at him.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cYou know that\u2019s not true, Emily Elizabeth.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>He rebutted. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt is, too, Daddy!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily pulled away in a huff. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t use that tone with me, young lady,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam\u2019s voice became stern.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSorry, Daddy, but it\u2019s true.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian feels the same way.\u00a0 <\/span>You and Mommy put so much focus on Jason; we feel like we don\u2019t even exist sometimes,\u201d she said as she grabbed the orange juice from the refrigerator. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam went up behind Emily and placed his hands on her shoulders.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cPrincess, when your brother started his college search, we had to work with him and help him with admission forms, visits to the prospective colleges and such.\u00a0 <\/span>This time in your brother\u2019s life requires a bit more attention.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll do the same for you and Jillian when it\u2019s time for you to start looking at colleges.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason\u2019s the oldest, so, of course, he\u2019s going to be the first to experience these type of things.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sorry you feel slighted or neglected.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s not our intention to make you feel this way.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe don\u2019t love you and Jillian any less and I think you know that.\u00a0 <\/span>Besides, don\u2019t Mommy and I come to all of the football games and watch you cheer?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, but…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo buts, let me finish,\u201d Adam interrupted, \u201cI come home from work early when the team plays out of town so we can chaperone, right?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd don\u2019t we also go to all your competitions, too?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, but…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not finished, Princess.\u00a0 <\/span>Am I not there for you when you need your daddy\u2019s shoulder to cry on, to laugh with, to help you do your homework?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily was feeling the agony of defeat and gave in.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cYeah, I guess so.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam turned Emily around and put his arms around his daughter.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cNow, do you think I neglect you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut Jillian…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re not talking about Jillian at the moment; we\u2019re talking about Daddy and Emily.\u00a0 <\/span>Aren\u2019t you my princess?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily smiled and hugged her daddy tight.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI always want to be your princess, Daddy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou were my princess from the day you were born, and you\u2019ll always be my beautiful princess as long as I have a heartbeat.\u00a0 <\/span>Now, go and get dressed so we can eat breakfast and get to the airport on time.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam slapped his daughter\u2019s bum as she turned to go back to her room to get dressed. <\/span><\/p>\n

The family enjoyed the large breakfast Adam made, and they headed to the airport just in time for Jason\u2019s flight to arrive.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAmerican Airlines announces the arrival of flight 1487 from Chicago.\u00a0 <\/span>Baggage claim D,\u201d said the announcer over the P.A..<\/span><\/p>\n

The Cartwright family stood at the exit to the secured area anxiously awaiting Jason\u2019s arrival home.\u00a0 <\/span>When they saw him come through the doors, Jessica ran to welcome her son with open arms.\u00a0 <\/span>She gave him kisses all over his face.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam and the girls walked up behind Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam took Jason\u2019s backpack which he’d carried on the plane with him and shook his son\u2019s hand, welcoming him home.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily gave her brother a kiss and hug and Jason picked up his baby sister and told her how much he missed her as he hugged and kissed her forehead.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid you check any bags, Honey?\u201d Jessica asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, just one small bag.\u00a0 <\/span>I think they said it was baggage claim D on the plane.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, we heard the baggage claim number with the announcement of your flight arrival,\u201d Adam confirmed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica put her arm around her son, and Adam put Jason\u2019s carry on over one of his shoulders and grabbed his two daughter\u2019s hands, and they all moved to the baggage claim to wait for Jason\u2019s luggage to arrive.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo who\u2019s the girl coming for a visit in a few days, Jason?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily inquired.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cMommy and Daddy told us you have someone you want us to meet.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHer name is Brianna, and she\u2019s my girlfriend.\u00a0 <\/span>I met her a few months ago at a social, and we\u2019ve been dating each other ever since.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe can\u2019t wait to meet her, Jason,\u201d Adam interjected, looking at Jessica as he could tell she still wasn\u2019t entirely sold on Adam\u2019s decision to allow them to stay at their home on the Ponderosa by themselves.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason grabbed his bag as it came around the carousel and the Cartwright family headed up to the Ponderosa for a big lunch that Hop Sing was preparing to welcome home Jason from his first semester at college.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the Cartwrights arrived at the main house on the Ponderosa, Jillian jumped from the Lexus GX11 SUV and ran up to ring the doorbell to her poppy\u2019s home. <\/span><\/p>\n

Just as Hop Sing answered the door, the rest of the Cartwright clan came walking up.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Hop Sing, is Poppy home?\u201d Jillian asked with great excitement.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHello, Miss Jillian. Yes, your grandfather is home. Come in! Come in!\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian ran into the house yelling, \u201cPOPPY! WE\u2019RE HERE! JASON\u2019S HOME!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica ran in giving a wave to Hop Sing as she passed by him, \u201cJillian! Don\u2019t yell, Baby Girl! It\u2019s not lady like!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSorry, Mommy.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m just excited to see Poppy!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian said with a pout.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Baby Girl.\u00a0 <\/span>You love to come and see your poppy,\u201d Jessica said as she gave her daughter a hug.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben came from his study as everyone was taking off their coats and handing them to Hop Sing. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, hello, Miss Jillian!\u00a0 <\/span>How\u2019s Poppy\u2019s big girl doing?\u00a0 <\/span>Are you ready for Santa to come and see you in a few days?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Ben said as he sat down in the chair next to the grandfather clock near his office so that he could be on Jillian\u2019s level.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Poppy!\u00a0 <\/span>I asked Santa to bring me a Barbie townhouse like Diana\u2019s!\u00a0 <\/span>I also want Barbie\u2019s car, too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I see!\u00a0 <\/span>So Barbie needs a home and wheels, huh?\u00a0 <\/span>Have you been good all year?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYep!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian said with a big smile.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPoppy!\u00a0 <\/span>Jason\u2019s home!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian continued.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben looked up at his eldest grandchild.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI see, Honey, I see.\u00a0 <\/span>Are you glad he\u2019s home with you again?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, but he has to go back to school again,\u201d she put her head down.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI do, Peanut, but I\u2019ll be back in the spring for spring break, but right now, I\u2019m home, and we\u2019ll go sledding and have fun together, okay?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason came over to his little sister and knelt down beside her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut you have a girlfriend coming, and Daddy says you\u2019re staying here!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian busted the surprise that Jason had planned to tell his grandfather.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Ben looked at Jason with wide eyes, wanting to know more.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t we all come and sit down in the great room and Jason can tell you all about his new girlfriend, Dad.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam interrupted as he came to help Ben up and assist him to his chair near the fireplace.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason told Ben about the first semester and his new love interest, Brianna.\u00a0 <\/span>Ben could see the love in Jason\u2019s eyes as he spoke about his new girl.\u00a0 <\/span>Ben\u2019s face showed his dissatisfaction at Adam allowing the two to stay at his home on the Ponderosa alone but didn\u2019t interfere with Adam\u2019s decisions where his family was concerned. <\/span><\/p>\n

After lunch, Jason shared more about his first semester at college, and how he was learning a lot at M.I.T..\u00a0 <\/span>He also told the family of his and Brianna\u2019s plans to take the same English class at Harvard where his mother and father met, the next semester. <\/span><\/p>\n

As the afternoon turned to early evening, Adam decided his father was starting to look a bit tired, so he gathered up the family, and they all said their goodbyes to Ben.\u00a0 <\/span>Ben put his coat on and walked the family to their car.\u00a0 <\/span>Everyone was in the car except for Adam; he stayed out to tell his father why he felt he could trust his son alone with Brianna, at his home on the Ponderosa.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason is a grown mature boy, Dad.\u00a0 <\/span>He seems very much in love with Brianna, and we\u2019re excited to meet her.\u00a0 <\/span>I want them to have some alone time so he can show her what life is like for us out here in the west.\u00a0 <\/span>I think if they stayed with us in Carson City, she might not be as comfortable as she would be out here, just the two of them.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m going to have a man to man talk with my son, and he\u2019ll have a clear understanding of what my expectations will be for him while he\u2019s hosting his girlfriend up here.\u00a0 <\/span>I trust him, Dad.\u00a0 <\/span>I know he would never do anything to dishonor our name or his reputation.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI understand, Son.\u00a0 <\/span>They\u2019re welcome here.\u00a0 <\/span>I look forward to meeting her, too.\u00a0 <\/span>I saw the same look in Jason\u2019s eyes that I saw in yours when you spoke to me in person about Jessica for the first time.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled. \u201cI thought the same thing, Dad.\u00a0 <\/span>She might be the one for Jason!\u00a0 <\/span>I can\u2019t wait to meet her.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019ll be here on the twenty-sixth.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m going to ask him tonight if he and Brianna want to attend the New Years Eve Gala with Jessica and me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think that will be a lovely idea.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll see you on Christmas Day, Son.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam shook his father\u2019s hand. He got in the car, put the gear in drive and drove away.\u00a0 <\/span>Ben waved as they turned onto the main road toward the exit of the Ponderosa.\u00a0 <\/span>Light-hearted conversation filled the ride home for Jason, Jessica, and Adam while Emily and Jillian dozed off.<\/span><\/p>\n

As they arrived home, Jessica went to draw a bath for Jillian and Emily went into her room to call her best friend. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo I have to take a bath tonight, Mommy?\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m tired,\u201d Jillian said as she sat on the floor of the bathroom and took off her clothes. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t have to stay in the tub long, just get your body washed and we\u2019ll wash your hair tomorrow, Baby Girl.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian jumped in the tub and washed her body while Jessica went and got flannel pajamas and panties for her daughter to put on when she got out of the bath. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jason took his spot in the three seasons room while Adam went and grabbed a couple of beers from the fridge.\u00a0 <\/span>They were talking about the English class Jason and Brianna planned to enroll at Harvard in, in the upcoming semester when Jillian and Jessica came walking in. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian ran over to Adam and held out her arms for a hug and kiss goodnight.\u00a0 <\/span>He sat up and held his youngest child in his arms.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam gave her a kiss on her forehead and wished her sweet dreams.\u00a0 <\/span>She then went over to her big brother and leaped into his lap and threw her arms around him, told him how much she loved him and that she was glad he was home.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason held his baby sister in his arms and wished her a good night\u2019s sleep.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian got up and bounced back to her mother, grabbed her hand, and dragged her to her room where Jessica tucked her daughter in and kissed her goodnight. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica went to the kitchen to make her a pot of tea before she joined Jason and Adam in the three seasons room.\u00a0 <\/span>When she entered, she sat down on the love seat and put her feet up and leaned on the overstuffed pillow against the arm rest.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked Jessica to come and sit on his lap, but Jessica was comfortable and declined.\u00a0 <\/span>When Jessica saw her opportunity to get more information about Brianna, she took her shot.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo tell us more about this new girl in your life, Son!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said as she drank from her favorite mug.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason pulled his wallet from his back pocket and took out a snapshot he had taken of Brianna at the bronze \u2018Make Way for the Ducklings\u2019 sculptures at Boston Public Garden on a gorgeous, unusually warm day in October, and handed it to his mother. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s beautiful, Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m eager to meet her,\u201d Jessica said as she handed the picture to Adam. <\/span><\/p>\n

When Adam looked at the picture, his eyes widened, and a huge grin came on his face.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cShe\u2019s a real looker, Son!\u00a0 <\/span>I see why you\u2019re attracted to her.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica glared at Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cPut your eyes back in your head, Adam, she\u2019s too young for you.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam glared back at his wife and snapped back, as he handed the photo back to Jason, \u201cThat\u2019s enough, Jess.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s a beautiful girl, and I\u2019m happy for our son.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason could feel the tension in his mother\u2019s demeanor, so he tried to soften her angst about his new love by telling her a little more about her. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBrianna reminds me of you, Mom.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s fun, full of life, she loves Shakespeare, and into sports big time.\u00a0 <\/span>We went to some Red Sox games and also drove down to Foxborough a few times to watch the Patriots play. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt seems like you two have been spending a lot of time together,\u201d Jessica continued her inquisition on Jason\u2019s new girl.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason was trying to keep the conversation light and fun.\u00a0 <\/span>He\u2019d hoped his parents would be happy for him, but it seems as if only one parent was, his father.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason finally had enough and dared to question his mother on why she was passing judgment on someone she had yet to meet.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMom, is there something wrong with me having a girlfriend in college?\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t understand the hostility you have toward Brianna\u2019s and my relationship.\u00a0 <\/span>Do I dare say I feel like you\u2019re slighting her because you feel she\u2019s taking away your little boy?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, that\u2019s enough.\u00a0 <\/span>Do not speak to your mother with that tone in this house,\u201d Adam\u2019s voice was annoyed at his son\u2019s disrespect to his mother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad, look at her body language?\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s tense; her eyes are ice blue and angry.\u00a0 <\/span>I won\u2019t stand for her to pass judgment on the girl I love when she hasn\u2019t even met her yet.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t want her to be as her father was to you!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica whipped her head toward Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWhat did you tell him about my dad, Adam?\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Feeling a bit ganged up on, Adam looked at his son with narrowed eyes, \u201cListen to me, Jason, this is your final warning.\u00a0 <\/span>You will not disrespect your mother in this home.\u00a0 <\/span>She has every right to have reservations about Brianna until she meets her.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>He then looked at Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI can guarantee you your mother will make her feel welcome in our home and get to know her.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sure once she meets her; she will like her, won\u2019t you, Jessica?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica didn\u2019t answer Adam\u2019s question; she only wanted to know what Adam told their son about his first meeting with her father. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat did you say about my father, Adam!\u00a0 <\/span>I want to know!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll discuss it later, Jess,\u201d Adam said in a very matter of fact tone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI want to…\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica demanded but was interrupted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI said, we\u2019ll discuss it later, in private.\u00a0 <\/span>Do I make myself clear?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam glared at his wife.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica sat for a moment and glared at Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Her anger was raging inside of her, but she held her forked tongue.<\/span><\/p>\n

After a few moments, Jessica\u2019s icy demeanor started to thaw, and she looked back at Jason, who had a worried look on his face as if he had wished he had not invited his new girlfriend to come and meet his family whom he loved dearly. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoney, I\u2019m sorry.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m not objecting to you having a girlfriend.\u00a0 <\/span>I just don\u2019t want you to get involved with someone and let her, or the relationship with her, become more of a focus than your studies.\u00a0 <\/span>Those are my main concerns, Honey, not your new found love.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason came over to his mother and bent down on his knees and took her hands into his.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cMom, I love her.\u00a0 <\/span>I think she might be the one.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m not for sure, but she makes me feel so good inside when we\u2019re together.\u00a0 <\/span>I feel like I\u2019ve known her forever.\u00a0 <\/span>We finish each other\u2019s sentences.\u00a0 <\/span>When we leave each other, we can\u2019t wait to be together again.\u00a0 <\/span>Right now, I can\u2019t imagine my life without her in it.\u00a0 <\/span>I think she feels the same way about me.\u00a0 <\/span>I can see her as the mother of my children one day. mI love her, Mom.\u00a0 <\/span>I want you and Dad to love her, too!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Tears were streaming down Jason\u2019s face as he professed his feelings of his beloved to his mother.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica\u2019s eyes began to glisten as she listened to her son\u2019s heartfelt description of what Brianna meant to him.\u00a0 <\/span>She took her son\u2019s face into her hands and said, \u201cIf she means this much to you, how can I not love her, too?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>She hugged her son and said into his shoulder, \u201cPlease just promise me you two will finish college first and please, by all means, Son, use protection!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMom!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason said as his face blushed a thousand shades of red.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Jessica!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam said laughing as he hid his face in embarrassment for his son.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked smiling. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jason kissed his mom\u2019s forehead.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cThat\u2019s what I love about you, Mom. You don\u2019t mince any words!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m still not 100% sold on your staying up at the house on the Ponderosa by yourself with Brianna while she\u2019s here, but I trust you to do the right thing by each other.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMom, I love her with all my heart.\u00a0 <\/span>I would never disrespect her in that way.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019ve brought me up better than that.\u00a0 <\/span>Besides, when and if the time is right, you and Dad have taught me well in that area, and that\u2019s all I have to say about that subject.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNow, if you\u2019ll excuse me, I want to call Brianna before it gets much later.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Jason hugged his father and kissed his mother goodnight.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica and Adam decided to head back toward their bedroom where Jessica asked about what he had told their son regarding her father.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI told him the truth!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam said as he got undressed for bed. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad must have seemed like a monster in Jason\u2019s eyes.\u00a0 <\/span>He wasn\u2019t that way, and you know it, Adam,\u201d Jessica said as she went and turned on the shower and began to get undressed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI told Jason Dad was a good man, and once he realized how much I loved you, we had a great relationship from there on out, but you can\u2019t deny the first night I met him was most uncomfortable for both of us.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, but I don\u2019t want Jason thinking any differently about his grandfather.\u00a0 <\/span>He loved him until the day he died.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason knows Dad was a good man, and his love and respect for him didn\u2019t change in the least, but I wasn\u2019t going to lie to our son about what happened when I first met him, either. I\u00a0 <\/span>don\u2019t want you acting that way with Brianna when we meet her, okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Adam, give me a little credit.\u00a0 <\/span>I wouldn\u2019t be a good mother if I didn\u2019t ask him those questions about her.\u00a0 <\/span>I just want him to be happy.\u00a0 <\/span>I think he\u2019s too young to be having sex, however,\u201d she said as she got into the shower.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stripped off his boxers and joined Jessica and took her into his arms.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWe were just nineteen when we first made love,\u201d Adam reminded his bride.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank goodness you had protection, too!\u00a0 <\/span>I didn’t come prepared, I was still a virgin, remember?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said as she took the soap and began to wash Adam\u2019s chest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI do remember.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sure our son is still a virgin, and I don\u2019t think he\u2019ll be intimate with a woman he doesn\u2019t want to marry.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam took the soap from Jessica, soaped up his hands and began to wash her body. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLook at us, Adam!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stopped soaping his woman and looked at her with a befuddled look. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think we\u2019ve just crossed into middle age. We\u2019re in the shower, naked, soaping each other\u2019s bodies, and debating the point of our children having sex!\u00a0 <\/span>Shouldn\u2019t this be our time?\u00a0 <\/span>Isn\u2019t the shower supposed to be where foreplay starts for us?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam traced his wife\u2019s body from head to toe with his eyes and hands.\u00a0 <\/span>You don\u2019t have the body of a middle age woman, Jess,\u201d he said as he began to nibble her neck.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica cuddled next to Adam\u2019s body, and they became one with the warm water raining down on them.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

Christmas Day was a joyous day for the Cartwright family.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam and Jessica awoke at 6:00 A.M. to Jillian’s squeals of delight of Santa’s arrival as well as he had brought her everything she had requested and more, including her Barbie Dream House and car.\u00a0 <\/span>Barbie had received a couple of new friends and a whole new wardrobe as well.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily received a new MacBook Pro and iPad she had been wanting.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason received a new MacBook Pro as well as a new guitar he had his eye on at the local music store.\u00a0 <\/span>Each of the kids received new clothes for winter and Adam gave Jessica a new diamond bracelet and matching earrings Emily and Jillian helped him select.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica gave Adam a new updated Longines La Grande Classique diamond dress watch to replace the one he had received from his father when he graduated from high school. <\/span><\/p>\n

As morning dawned on the 26th, Jason woke up early.\u00a0 <\/span>He was excited and nervous at the same time.\u00a0 <\/span>He couldn\u2019t wait for his new love to meet the family.\u00a0 <\/span>The afternoon would be at their home in Carson City.\u00a0 <\/span>The late afternoon, they would head up to the Ponderosa where Brianna would meet Jason\u2019s grandfather, his two uncles, their wives, and children.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam made reservations to take everyone to dinner at Lone Eagle Grille in Incline Village.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason would drive him and Brianna up to the Ponderosa since they would be staying at Adam\u2019s and Jessica\u2019s ranch home the entire week. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam was the first to wake up after Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>He came into the kitchen to put on coffee but saw a fresh pot already brewed.\u00a0 <\/span>He poured himself a mug and went into the three seasons room where he found Jason standing by the window looking out onto the backyard in just his pajama pants with coffee in his hands.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning, Son, you\u2019re up early,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam commented as he leaned on the jam of the three seasons room door. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jason turned around and smiled at his father.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHey, Dad. Yeah, I got up early to talk with Brianna before she boarded her plane,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason turned around beaming, \u201cAwe, Dad, I can\u2019t wait for you to meet her, she\u2019s so special to me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam walked over and stood next to his son and pat him on the back.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI can tell, Son.\u00a0 <\/span>I know we\u2019re going to love her from the minute we meet her.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEvery day that goes by, I love her even more, Dad.\u00a0 <\/span>I never thought I could love someone as I love her.\u00a0 <\/span>What\u2019s so wonderful is she loves me, too!\u00a0 <\/span>I know we\u2019ve only known each other for a few months, but Dad!\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s the one.\u00a0 <\/span>I just know she is!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, it didn\u2019t take me long to know your mother was the one I wanted to spend the rest of my life with either.\u00a0 <\/span>Just keep your focus on school right now.\u00a0 <\/span>When I knew your mother was the one, I kept it to myself until we were seniors in college.\u00a0 <\/span>Oh, we each knew we wanted to marry each other, and we talked about our lives together; having children, growing old with each other.\u00a0 <\/span>Until I placed the ring on your mother\u2019s finger, all that could have changed for either of us if our lives had taken a dramatic turn in a different direction.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Dad. You and Mom will be happy to know we both want to finish school first.\u00a0 <\/span>Brie wants to be a teacher.\u00a0 <\/span>I want to come and work with you at Cartwright, Incorporated.\u00a0 <\/span>Besides, I wouldn\u2019t ever marry a woman like Brianna if I couldn\u2019t support her or our kids.\u00a0 <\/span>Do you look forward to being a grandfather someday, Dad?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam laughed.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cSon, nothing makes me happier than to think of all three of my kids growing up and having families of their own.\u00a0 <\/span>I look forward to the day when I can hold a new generation of Cartwrights in my arms.\u00a0 <\/span>Besides, I\u2019ll get to spoil them like Poppy spoiled you and your sisters and then send them home to you!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam teased as he ruffled his son\u2019s hair. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s get the day started.\u00a0 <\/span>We have a very special guest coming!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam said as he got up and headed back to the kitchen to refresh his coffee. <\/span><\/p>\n

Both Cartwright men went to their respective bedrooms to get dressed and bring a new prospective member into their family.<\/span><\/p>\n

Chapter Four<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

Jason and his family anxiously awaited Brianna\u2019s flight to arrive from New York via Chicago. Adam could see the angst in his son\u2019s form, and he whispered in his ear, \u201cWe already love her because you love her, Son.\u00a0 <\/span>Try to relax.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason smiled at his father\u2019s reassurance they were going to like his woman because they trusted he would only make the right choice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s great, Dad.\u00a0 <\/span>I just can\u2019t wait for her to meet you guys. There\u2019s nothing more I want than to see the woman I love to become part of this family I love dearly.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Brianna\"<\/a><\/p>\n

As Jason finished his sentence, he saw the lovely red haired girl come through the secured area doors into baggage claim.\u00a0 <\/span>His eyes lit up, and he ran to her, picking her up, swinging her around, and kissing her passionately. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica came up to Adam, and he put his arm around his wife\u2019s waist and kissed her on her head.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica\u2019s eyes lit up as she saw her son\u2019s happiness like never before.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGod, I\u2019ve missed you so much, Brie!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason said as he looked at his girl in her eyes, holding her close to his body. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve missed you terribly, too, but I\u2019m so happy to be here, and I\u2019m looking forward to meeting your family.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason\u2019s eyes grew big, and he said, \u201cOh my gosh!\u00a0 <\/span>My family!\u00a0 <\/span>There right over here.\u00a0 <\/span>Come, meet them!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason took Brianna\u2019s small bag she had carried on the plane and grabbed her hand to take her where Adam, Jessica, Emily, and Jillian were standing.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam could see his son was very nervous and breathing hard.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBrianna, I would like to introduce you to my family.\u00a0 <\/span>My mother, Jessica, my sisters, Emily, and Jillian, and this is my father, Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna greeted each of the Cartwright\u2019s with a firm handshake and warm smile.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica and Adam were beaming from ear to ear as they shook Brianna\u2019s hand.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re happy to meet you finally, Brianna!\u00a0 <\/span>Jason has told us so much about you over the past several days.\u00a0 <\/span>We feel as if we already know you!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam grinned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Mr. Cartwright.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve heard so many wonderful things about you all as well.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason has pictures of all of you around his apartment and has told me so many wonderful stories of when he was growing up.\u00a0 <\/span>I feel like a part of the family!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPlease, call me, Adam, and my wife, Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>Mr. Cartwright is my father, Ben.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, Adam, thank you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason tells us you\u2019re from Connecticut.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m from Connecticut as well, what town are you from, Brianna?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m from Westport, Ma\u2019am, I mean, Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sorry, I\u2019m a bit nervous and excited all at the same time!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason beamed with excitement at how good an impression she was making on his family, especially his parents.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cNothing to be nervous about, Sweetheart.\u00a0 <\/span>My family is very down to earth.\u00a0 <\/span>They fell in love with you before you even set foot in Nevada.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna smiled as she spoke to everyone, \u201cThank you for making me feel so welcome.\u00a0 <\/span>I look forward to spending more time with you this week and getting to know you all better.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you have checked baggage, Brianna?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Sir. I\u2019m sorry.\u00a0 <\/span>I mean, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>I do.\u00a0 <\/span>I believe they said it was baggage claim A?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, let’s head there now,\u201d Jason said.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason took his girl by her arm, and they walked toward baggage claim A.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian ran up to her brother\u2019s other side, and he grabbed her hand.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica put her arm through Adam\u2019s right arm, and Emily took Adam\u2019s left, and they followed behind the two lovebirds and Jillian.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow was your flight, Brianna?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica inquired, trying to make small talk as she watched the girl make loving eyes towards her son.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was good.\u00a0 <\/span>Smooth flights to both Chicago and Reno.\u00a0 <\/span>The flights were full going to both destinations.\u00a0 <\/span>They had to ask for volunteers on Chicago’s leg, but I wasn\u2019t giving up my seat for anyone,\u201d she said as she looked adoringly into Jason\u2019s eyes. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHere comes my bag, Jason,\u201d Brianna said as the pink and green polka dot suitcase came around the carousel. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jason grabbed her luggage, and Adam took it from him so that he could hold his girl.\u00a0 <\/span>The family headed to the parking garage and drove back to their home where they would spend the day getting to know each other before going up to the Ponderosa.<\/span><\/p>\n

On the short ride back to the house, Brianna talked about Christmas with her parents and her younger brother. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy family is leaving on a cruise today to the Caribbean.\u00a0 <\/span>Mom was a bit disappointed I didn\u2019t want to go, but she understood I wanted to come and spend time with Jason at his home and to meet his family.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour parents have met Jason a few times?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Ma\u2019am, they have.\u00a0 <\/span>They’ve come up to Cambridge and visited me a few times, and we went down to Connecticut once.\u00a0 <\/span>They love Jason very much.\u00a0 <\/span>My father owns a manufacturing equipment company, so he and Jason talk about engineering and business related things.\u00a0 <\/span>My mother was a fashion buyer for Calvin Klein at Macy\u2019s in the city for years, so we enjoy talking about the latest trends in fashion when the boys start talking shop,\u201d Brianna explained with a nervousness in her voice still.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour mother was a fashion buyer for Calvin Klein?\u00a0 <\/span>Wow, I bet that was cool!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily commented.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy mother loved her job, but she hated the traveling when she was a buyer.\u00a0 <\/span>She worked for Macy\u2019s since she was in high school.\u00a0 <\/span>When she and my father got married, she was already a buyer, so she continued to work because she enjoyed her job.\u00a0 <\/span>She traveled extensively when my brother and I were younger, so we spent a lot of time with our nanny, but she was great.\u00a0 <\/span>She let us get away with things Mother and Father would have never allowed us to.\u00a0 <\/span>I think we turned out okay, though.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason tells us that you are studying history?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam jumped into the conversation.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Sir, with a minor in education.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve always loved history.\u00a0 <\/span>I caught the bug in eighth grade when I studied American History.\u00a0 <\/span>The old west is what intrigues me the most, however.\u00a0 <\/span>I enjoyed studying the California Gold Rush as well as the big silver strike in Nevada.\u00a0 <\/span>Living in Connecticut, there wasn\u2019t as much of a focus on it as there was for Jason living here, of course, but I sure enjoyed the section each time I had to take American History throughout my junior high and high school years.\u00a0 <\/span>I knew I wanted to major in history in college.\u00a0 <\/span>I have never been out west, so when Jason invited me to come and spend time with him out here, I was so excited!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid you bring your sexy emerald green sequin gown for New Year\u2019s Eve?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhere are you two going for New Year\u2019s Eve?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad got two extra tickets to the Hospital\u2019s New Year\u2019s Eve Gala for Brianna and Me.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019re going to go with Mom and Dad.\u00a0 <\/span>Hey, Dad, if it\u2019s okay with you and Mom, I think we\u2019ll just stay at home in Carson City for the last few nights.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t want to drive in the mountains late after the gala, and since Brie will be leaving on the second, it makes sense to stay in town those last few nights.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam could see the jealousy already starting to rise in his middle child\u2019s face when Jason informed her he and his new girl would be spending a fancy evening with their parents while she had to stay at home and babysit her sister. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think that\u2019s a wise decision, Son.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam watched his son with Brianna in the very back as they nuzzled together and kissed each other.\u00a0 <\/span>He saw the love in his son\u2019s face and knew this was the girl he would most likely want to marry one day.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam already loved her and looked forward to the day she would be his daughter-in-law.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam grabbed Jessica\u2019s left hand and held it tight.\u00a0 <\/span>She smiled at him, but he could tell her accepting smile of Brianna strained, and he couldn\u2019t figure out why. <\/span><\/p>\n

As they arrived home, everyone hopped out of the car and went into the house.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason took Brianna\u2019s luggage and put it in his Rav4 since he would be driving them up to the Ponderosa when they left for Incline Village later in the day.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna told Jason her change of clothes for later in the evening were in her carry-on, so he brought the bag in the house.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI hope you didn\u2019t have lunch on the plane, Brie.\u00a0 <\/span>Mom made a big lunch of sandwiches and salads for all of us.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI had a bagel and some water in New York, but I didn\u2019t eat anything else.\u00a0 <\/span>My stomach\u2019s had butterflies the whole way here,\u201d she said bashfully. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, why don\u2019t you and Dad go with Brianna into the three seasons room to talk while Emily, Jillian, and I get lunch ready,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica suggested.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSounds good, Mom!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason said as he kissed his mother\u2019s cheek.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam came behind his wife and whispered in her ear as he kissed her head, \u201cYour jealousy is showing, turn on a smile, please.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica stuck her tongue out at her husband and hit him with her elbow in the ribs.\u00a0 <\/span>He looked at her with a raised eyebrow and whispered as he grabbed a bottle of wine from the wine refrigerator, \u201cSmile!\u00a0 <\/span>Your son is in love with this girl!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam went into the three seasons room with wine glasses and the bottle of wine.\u00a0 <\/span>He offered wine to their guest and his son; each gladly accepted.<\/span><\/p>\n

Back in the kitchen, Emily was getting the salads from the refrigerator when she asked her mother about the New Year\u2019s Eve Gala.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, why do Jason and Brie get to go to the Gala with you and Daddy and I have to stay home and watch Jillian?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian, feeling her sister\u2019s angst with the tone in her voice tried to make it better by saying, \u201cWe can play Barbies, Emmy!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica smiled at her youngest daughter\u2019s innocence.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily went over to her sister and hugged her saying, \u201cI\u2019d love to play Barbies with you, Peanut, but I sure would like to go to the Gala, too!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

She then looked over at her mother who was putting the sandwiches she had made earlier in the morning on a platter and said, \u201cI want to get a long gown and get all dolled up.\u00a0 <\/span>Why does Jason always get to have all the fun, Mommy?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEm, Jason\u2019s older than you, so he\u2019s going to get to do things that you\u2019re too young to do.\u00a0 <\/span>Be patient, my dear, you\u2019ll have your turn in a few years.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s just not fair, Mommy!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica didn\u2019t respond any further to her daughter\u2019s pity party.\u00a0 <\/span>She told her to get the dijon mustard and mayonnaise out of the fridge and put them in some bowls.<\/span><\/p>\n

With lunch beautifully set on the table buffet-style, Jessica went into the three seasons room to invite everyone to come and make their plates.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica used casual glass dishes which had a beautiful flower pattern etched along the edge of each plate as well as a fresh flower arrangement in the middle of the table as well as a crisp white linen tablecloth and matching napkins.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLunch smells wonderful, Jessica!\u00a0 <\/span>Thank you for making this for us!\u00a0 <\/span>Are you a chef?\u00a0 <\/span>It looks like something straight out of one of the cooking shows I watch sometimes,\u201d Brianna said as she picked up her plate and started dishing out a serving of pasta salad.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy wife is a frustrated chef, Brie,\u201d Adam interjected as he kissed Jessica on the cheek.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWe\u2019re the happy recipients of her love of cooking.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI sure have missed Mom\u2019s cooking at school.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve tried to make a few of her dishes, but they just don\u2019t turn out the same, so I just stick with what\u2019s in a can,\u201d Jason laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said with exasperation in her tone, \u201cI hope you\u2019re eating better than that, Son!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry, Jessica, I cook for him at least three to four times a week, depending on how much homework we both have.\u00a0 <\/span>I always cook Friday through Sunday, and if we\u2019re not too busy, I\u2019ll come over and cook throughout the week, too!\u00a0 <\/span>I gave up eating in the mess hall, so I do most of the grocery shopping for the two of us, and if we\u2019re too busy, I\u2019ll just catch something at one of the local delis.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThose are my can of soup nights,\u201d Jason grinned.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked around and didn\u2019t see Emily.\u00a0 <\/span>He asked Jessica where she went, and Jessica shrugged her shoulders as she started to help Jillian with her plate after Brianna and Jason had gotten theirs and gone back into the three seasons room where Adam had set up TV trays to set their plates on for lunch.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam went into the kitchen to see if his daughter was in there getting something to drink, but didn\u2019t find her in there, so he went back to her bedroom and knocked on the door.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPrincess, it\u2019s Daddy, are you in here?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGo away, Daddy.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>She said through her tears.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPrincess, I\u2019m coming in, okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

There was no response, so Adam opened the door, peeked in and saw his daughter crying on her bed.\u00a0 <\/span>He went over to her, rubbed her back and asked her why she wasn\u2019t in the other room getting lunch and joining the rest of the family in the three seasons room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI want to go to the New Year\u2019s Eve Gala, Daddy!\u00a0 <\/span>When can I start doing grown up things?\u00a0 <\/span>I always have to stay behind and babysit Jillian!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs this why you\u2019re crying, Princess?\u00a0 <\/span>Because Jason and Brianna are going to the New Year\u2019s Eve Gala with Mommy and me?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily didn\u2019t respond with words, only a harder cry.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPrincess, for starters, the Gala is a fundraiser for the hospital.\u00a0 <\/span>This year\u2019s fundraiser is for the new cancer center.\u00a0 <\/span>It will be just a bunch of old folks like Mommy and me giving lots of money in a silent auction.\u00a0 <\/span>Then at midnight, we\u2019ll kiss the new year in and we\u2019ll come home.\u00a0 <\/span>It would be boring for you.\u00a0 <\/span>I promise you that.\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy and I will make sure you and Jillian get a pizza, snacks, and all the movies you want to watch, okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI just want to be a grown-up too, Daddy,\u201d Emily\u2019s sobs began to settle.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPrincess, enjoy being a kid while you can.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019ll have the rest of your life to be a grown-up, and that\u2019s when you\u2019ll wish you could be a kid again!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam laughed. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNow dry your tears and join the rest of us.\u00a0 <\/span>You don\u2019t want to let Jason\u2019s girlfriend know you\u2019re in your room crying, do you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam grabbed some tissues from the tissue box on Emily\u2019s desk and handed them to her.\u00a0 <\/span>They walked arm and arm back to the dining room.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam got a plate for his princess, one for himself and they started piling up their plates with the fabulous lunch Jessica had prepared.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Emily walked into the three seasons room, and everyone was laughing about a story Brianna was telling Jessica and Jillian about how she and her brother had gone ice fishing one year with their father and the family dog kept slipping on the ice and how he finally just sat down and refused to move any further.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhere\u2019ve you been, Em?\u201d Jason asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy do you care?\u201d Emily responded abruptly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam scolded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily, Jason tells me you\u2019re a cheerleader at your high school.\u00a0 <\/span>I was a cheerleader, too!\u201d Brianna said trying to find a bond she could share with Jason\u2019s sister.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s cool, Brie! We\u2019ll have to share stories of cheerleading camp together,\u201d Emily\u2019s demeanor started to brighten up.<\/span><\/p>\n

The family finished their lunch and Jessica cleared the dishes. Brianna jumped up to help, but Jessica told her she was a guest in their home, and she would not have her helping with dishes.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna sat back down and placed her hand on Jason\u2019s leg and started to rub it.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam took notice of the loving gesture and smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica was not thrilled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI have a chocolate sheet cake for dessert, would you two care for a piece?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked as she locked her eyes on Brianna\u2019s hand on her son\u2019s leg.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Brie, you have to try Mom\u2019s chocolate cake.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s amazing!\u00a0 <\/span>She puts cinnamon in it for a little spice, and it\u2019s phenomenal!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna smiled and said, \u201cI guess I have to have a piece after such a review, huh?\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWould you like some coffee or tea?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked as he got up to help with the dishes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI would love a cup of tea, Adam, thank you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and the girls got up to help Jessica with the dishes to give Jason and Brianna a little privacy. <\/span><\/p>\n

In the kitchen, Jessica took the cake off the side counter and placed it on the island.\u00a0 <\/span>As she was reaching for a knife, Adam started making a pot of coffee and put the kettle on for tea.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid you see how she was rubbing her hand up and down Jason\u2019s leg, Adam?\u00a0 <\/span>How disrespectful right in front of us!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, come on, Jess.\u00a0 <\/span>We also were loving to each other all the time when we were their age. It\u2019s an endearment.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s just showing how much she loves him.\u00a0 <\/span>I seriously doubt she was trying to be disrespectful.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam walked over to his wife, put his face near hers pinching her nose he said, \u201cYou need to lighten up!\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s a beautiful sweet girl, and she loves our son!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica rolled her eyes and cut the cake as Adam got a tray and mugs down for the coffee and tea. <\/span><\/p>\n

Emily quietly put the leftovers in containers and stacked them neatly in the refrigerator. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you want some tea with your cake, Princess?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Daddy, if it is okay with you and Mommy, I want to go back to my room.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you feeling ill, Sweetheart?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica stopped cutting the cake and asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m all right, Mommy.\u00a0 <\/span>I didn\u2019t sleep well last night.\u00a0 <\/span>I would like to take a nap before we go up to Poppy\u2019s.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll go and excuse myself to Brie and Jason if it’s okay with you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt’s fine, Princess.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll wake you up in a few hours so you can change to go to Poppy\u2019s since we\u2019re going to Lone Eagle Grille tonight.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Daddy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily went and excused herself to Jason and Brianna.\u00a0 <\/span>She went back to her room, took off her clothes, put a t-shirt on, climbed into bed and cried herself to sleep. Wanting to go to the gala was still heavy on her mind, and she needed to be alone and have a private pity party.<\/span><\/p>\n

They spent the balance of the afternoon with many stories Jason and Brianna shared about their time together at Cambridge.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian ended up falling asleep in Jessica\u2019s arms. <\/span><\/p>\n

4:30 PM rolled around, and Adam excused himself so he could go wake up Emily.\u00a0 <\/span>He knocked on her door, and she answered in renewed spirits wearing her pink \u2018Daddy\u2019s Princess\u2019 t-shirt.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI woke up about fifteen minutes ago.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m putting on a little make-up, and I\u2019ll get dressed in just a little bit.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, Princess.\u00a0 <\/span>It seems like your nap did you a lot of good.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily threw her arms around her hero\u2019s neck and kissed him on the cheek and said, \u201cI love you, Daddy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Taken back by the sudden burst of love, Adam grabbed his daughter around her waist so all her weight would not have to be sustained by his neck as he replied, \u201cI love you too, Princess.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll leave you be so you can finish getting ready.\u00a0 <\/span>If you need to come out, however, please put on a robe since we have company,\u201d he requested.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily, never one for being modest, often paraded throughout the house in only her t-shirt and panties when she had been sleeping or staying in her room for extended periods of time.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily laughed and nodded in agreement.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason showed Brianna to his bedroom where she could change her clothes.\u00a0 <\/span>He grabbed his suit from the closet and went into the bathroom to change.<\/span><\/p>\n

When everyone was changed and ready to go, Jessica and Emily climbed into Jessica\u2019s Lexus, and Jason helped Brianna into his Rav4.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian asked her parents if she could ride with Jason and Brianna.\u00a0 <\/span>The couple didn\u2019t object, so Adam helped her get buckled in the back, and they all headed toward the Ponderosa.<\/span><\/p>\n

As everyone arrived at the main house on the Ponderosa, Ben passed by the window and saw Adam\u2019s family getting out of the two cars.\u00a0 <\/span>He went to the door and greeted everyone as they walked up to the house. <\/span><\/p>\n

When Brianna and Jason arrived at the front door, Jason stopped and introduced his grandfather to his new girlfriend. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPoppy, it is my pleasure to present my girlfriend, Brianna Nelson.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna, this is my Poppy, Ben Cartwright.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna shook Ben\u2019s hand, and with a big smile, she said, \u201cIt\u2019s an honor to meet you, Mr. Cartwright. Jason speaks so highly of you.\u00a0 <\/span>I feel like I already know you!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s my pleasure to meet you too, Miss Brianna. I\u2019ve had some lovely conversations and emails with Jason about you, too!\u00a0 <\/span>Welcome to the Ponderosa!\u00a0 <\/span>Please, come in!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The two entered the house where Adam, Jessica, and the girls were talking to the other members of the Cartwright clan in the great room. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam was busy talking to Hoss, telling him how wonderful Jason\u2019s new girlfriend was and what a lovely afternoon they had already spent with her. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, here they are!\u201d Adam said. <\/span><\/p>\n

Everyone gathered around and stopped talking so Jason could give a grand introduction of his new girl.<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna, I would like to introduce you to the rest of my extended family.\u00a0 <\/span>My Aunt Carolyn, Uncle Eric\u2019s wife, and Aunt Donna, Uncle Joe\u2019s wife.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna shook each of their hands and told them it was a pleasure to meet them and how she hoped to get to know them better over time. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jason continued, \u201cThis is my Uncle Eric, but we call him Uncle Hoss, a nickname my father gave him when he was little because he was born this big.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>The family erupted in laughter.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t mind them, ma\u2019am, they\u2019re just plain jealous!\u00a0 <\/span>They just wished they were as big, strong, and handsome as me,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Hoss blushed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI understand you\u2019re sweet as you are big, Hoss,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, I like this little filly,\u201d Hoss grinned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMe, too!\u201d Jason said as he winked at his girl.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason then looked at Joe and introduced Brianna to him.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cThis is my father\u2019s youngest brother, my Uncle Joe.\u00a0 <\/span>He\u2019s the one I used to beat all the time at checkers when I was a kid.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shook Brianna\u2019s hand and said, \u201cYoungest and most handsome, ma\u2019am.\u00a0 <\/span>As far as him beating me at checkers, it\u2019s because I taught him everything he knows about the game.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s great to meet you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Everyone erupted in laughter again as the family was immediately feeling very comfortable with Brianna.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason then moved to the children of his aunts and uncles.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis is Uncle Joe and Aunt Donna\u2019s twins, Joe, Jr. and Braiden. Aunt Donna is pregnant with their third child, who we just found out at Christmas, is going to be a girl!\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCongratulations!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna smiled to Donna and Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd who is this little bundle of joy?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna asked as she stroked the soft face of the infant Hoss\u2019 wife, Carolyn, was holding.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss introduced his brand new Korean daughter whom he and his wife had just adopted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis is Daisy, our daughter.\u00a0 <\/span>We just got back from Korea shortly before Christmas.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s the apple of our eye.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s gorgeous!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna started making coos at the baby. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica smiled as she watched her possible future daughter-in-law make a fuss over the newest addition to the Cartwright family.\u00a0 <\/span>She could see fantastic parenting qualities in Brianna and thought about the day she would be a grandmother.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam pulled Jessica close to him as a sign he also noticed how great Brianna was with Hoss\u2019 and Carolyn\u2019s new baby.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason looked around and asked where Hop Sing was.\u00a0 <\/span>He wanted to introduce his girl to the great caretaker of his Grandfather.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPoppy, where\u2019s Hop Sing?\u00a0 <\/span>I want Brianna to meet him as well.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing!\u201d boomed Ben\u2019s big voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hop Sing came scurrying out of the kitchen smiling as he saw Jason and his new love interest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHello, Master Jason!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Hop Sing bowed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing, I want you to meet my girlfriend, Brianna.\u00a0 <\/span>Brie, this is the best chef!\u00a0 <\/span>Except for my mother of course,\u201d Jason smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna shook Hop Sing\u2019s hand and bowed to show respect for his Chinese heritage. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam announced for everyone to gather their coats because it was time to head to dinner at Lone Eagle Grille.<\/span><\/p>\n

The family had an excellent meal.\u00a0 <\/span>Everyone enjoyed the food and company.\u00a0 <\/span>As the evening wound down, each family went their separate ways from the restaurant.\u00a0 <\/span>Ben had traveled with Adam and his family and came back with them.\u00a0 <\/span>They all had said goodnight to Brianna and Jason before they headed down to the family\u2019s ranch home.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben hugged his grandson and girlfriend, and they departed for the house.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam and Jessica made sure Ben got back into the house and was comfortable before they left themselves.<\/span><\/p>\n

On the way back to Carson City, Adam beamed at how well the day had gone and how happy he was Jason, and his girlfriend had gotten along with the rest of the family.\u00a0 <\/span>He noticed Jessica\u2019s mood swings and thought to wait until they were home in the privacy of their room to discuss it with her.<\/span><\/p>\n

Back at the family\u2019s home on the Ponderosa, Jason pulled into the garage and grabbed both his and Brianna\u2019s bags from the back.\u00a0 <\/span>He showed Brianna the house, and to the guest room where she would sleep for the week so she could have a comfortable, spacious room in which to relax. Jason\u2019s room was across the hall, so if Brianna needed anything in the middle of the night, she wouldn\u2019t have to walk far to find Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>Once they had changed into more comfortable clothes, they went downstairs, Jason lit a fire in the fireplace and made some coffee.<\/span><\/p>\n

The two were finally alone and could exchange Christmas presents with each other.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason offered his first.\u00a0 <\/span>When Brianna opened the box, she found a beautiful one karat heart shaped diamond pendant solitaire on a yellow gold delicate snake chain.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Jason, it\u2019s beautiful!\u201d she said as she kissed him tenderly. <\/span><\/p>\n

She pulled it from the box, Jason took it from her and undid the clasp.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna pulled her hair to the side, and he put it around her neck. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s exquisite.\u00a0 <\/span>Thank you so much, Babe!\u00a0 <\/span>I love it!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBrianna,\u201d Jason said as he took her hands, \u201cthis diamond heart pendant is more than just a Christmas gift to you from me.\u00a0 <\/span>I chose the heart shaped diamond as a symbol of my love and commitment to you, and to show that you\u2019ll always have my heart.\u00a0 <\/span>I hope you\u2019ll accept this as a promise that I want to be with you always.\u00a0 <\/span>We still have several more years of school, but I want you to know eventually, the heart that now hangs around your neck will also one day, if you have me, I’ll replace on your left ring finger.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna\u2019s eyes filled with tears as Jason told her the gift was his way of saying he wanted her to one day be his wife as well as a Christmas gift to her. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, I don\u2019t know what to say except I can\u2019t imagine myself with any other man but you.\u00a0 <\/span>I accept your promise, and I look forward to the day that I become your fianc\u00e9.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason grinned as he thought about how he and Brianna had just taken the next step in their relationship.\u00a0 <\/span>He was over the moon with happiness and couldn\u2019t wait to share the news with his family that he had, until now, kept only to himself.<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna handed her gift to Jason.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt is not as special as your gift to me is, but I chose it with love from my heart.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason opened the box and found a pair of 14K gold cufflinks with a rope design around the edge with the initials JC<\/em> inscribed on each cufflink. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know you said you had always wanted a pair of gold cufflinks with your initials, so I went to Spirer\u2019s Jewelers on Mass Ave., and I found these.\u00a0 <\/span>I thought they were beautiful.\u00a0 <\/span>I hope you like them.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason took Brianna into his arms and gave her a tender kiss and whispered, \u201cI love them.\u00a0 <\/span>I love you.\u00a0 <\/span>Thank you!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason then looked at Brianna with a smile and said, \u201cI got your pendant at Spirer\u2019s, too!\u00a0 <\/span>Who helped you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Spirer\u2019s son, Frank, and you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason laughed and said, \u201cMe, too!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

They both laughed as they thought about Frank keeping it a secret they had both been in to buy each other\u2019s gifts from the exclusive store.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason had already decided he would have Frank design a ring for Brianna\u2019s engagement ring when the time came for him to make the important purchase. <\/span><\/p>\n

The couple sat for several hours enjoying the alone time they had in the beautiful setting that was the Ponderosa.\u00a0 <\/span>As the fire died down, Jason closed the fireplace doors, and the two walked up the stairs arm and arm.\u00a0 <\/span>When they reached the guest bedroom door, the two embraced in a passionate kiss. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cStay with me tonight?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna asked breathlessly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason kissed his woman again, and the two disappeared into her room until morning.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Adam, Jessica, and the girls arrived home, the sound of the garage door closing woke the three girls up as they had all dozed off on the ride down the mountain toward Carson City.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily went straight to her room and shut her door without saying as much as a goodnight.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian\u2019s eyes were sleepy, and she whined when Adam opened the door for her to get out. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m tired, Daddy,\u201d she said as Adam unbuckled her seatbelt.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome on, Sweetpea. Daddy will carry you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam brought his youngest to her room, and she started getting undressed as Adam got her pajamas out of her dresser drawer.\u00a0 <\/span>He helped her put on her flannel PJs and tucked her in bed.\u00a0 <\/span>She smiled at her daddy and told him she loved him.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam bent down and dropped a kiss on her forehead and told her he loved her as well and to sleep tight.\u00a0 <\/span>She turned over and drifted back to sleep, and Adam quietly walked out and shut the door behind him.<\/span><\/p>\n

He walked down to his room that he shared with Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>She was in the shower, so Adam went into the closet and took off his clothes and prepared their bed for sleeping.\u00a0 <\/span>As he was taking the shams off the bed and replacing them with their sleeping pillows, Jessica came from the bathroom with only a towel around her body and her hair pinned up in a clip. <\/span><\/p>\n

As she was going through the drawer finding a fresh pair of pajamas to wear, Adam came behind his wife and placed his hands around her waist and started nibbling on her bare shoulder.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica tried to wriggle out of Adam\u2019s grasp as she wasn\u2019t in the mood for romance.\u00a0 <\/span>She was tired and just wanted to go to bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Feeling a bit dejected, Adam approached the subject of Jessica\u2019s wavering mood swings all day.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve noticed today you\u2019ve had very vast mood swings, Jess. One minute you\u2019re smiling and happy to see Jason in love and you seemed to like Brianna.\u00a0 <\/span>Then the next minute, your body language is tense, and you’re criticizing her for putting her hand on his leg.\u00a0 <\/span>What is with you today? Aren\u2019t you happy for Jason and Brianna?\u00a0 <\/span>Or are you jealous of her?\u00a0 <\/span>I think she\u2019s smart, beautiful, and she seems to be in love with Jason as much as he is with her!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica spun around and glared at Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cJealous?\u00a0 <\/span>Why would I be jealous of a nineteen-year-old girl?\u00a0 <\/span>Do I need to be jealous of her, Adam?\u00a0 <\/span>What, do you have the hots for our son\u2019s girlfriend?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam rolled his eyes, \u201cI\u2019m not even dignifying you with an answer, Jess,\u201d and he went into the bathroom to brush his teeth. <\/span><\/p>\n

Before putting on her nightgown, Jessica finished taking down the comforter on the bed and fluffing both pillows.\u00a0 <\/span>When Adam came back in the room, he walked over to his side of the bed, climbed in under the sheets, turned out his light, and rolled over on his side away from Jessica.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica sat down on the bed, still with her towel wrapped around her body.\u00a0 <\/span>She touched Adam on the shoulder.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry. I\u00a0 <\/span>was way out of line with that statement.\u00a0 <\/span>Please forgive me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam turned over on his back, only the top part of his chest exposed.\u00a0 <\/span>He grabbed Jessica\u2019s hand brought it to his lips and kissed her palm tenderly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t have the hots for our son\u2019s girlfriend.\u00a0 <\/span>The woman I have the hots for is you,\u201d and he pulled Jessica down on top of him and took her into his arms kissing her passionately.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam took a hold of the towel that covered Jessica\u2019s body and pulled it away from her.\u00a0 <\/span>He rolled her over on her back and said, \u201cI only have eyes for you, my beautiful bride.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica smiled and her icy demeanor melted as she and Adam came together for a quick nightcap of each other before going to sleep.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason and Brianna spent the week skiing at a nearby resort and drove snowmobiles around the Ponderosa.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna remembered how Jillian said she loved to go sledding, so before she had to return to school from her holiday break, they drove to Carson City to pick her up, and they brought her back up to the Ponderosa to enjoy a day with them in the snow. They invited Emily to come as well, but she already made plans with friends to go to a movie and dinner at an old fashion soda fountain next to the movie theaters. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jason arrived at his home in Carson City with his girlfriend Brianna the evening of New Year\u2019s Eve. When the coupled walked into the kitchen through the garage, they were greeted by Adam, who was preparing a bottle of champagne for him, Jessica, Jason, and Brianna to enjoy before their departure to the hospital gala. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Dad!\u00a0 <\/span>Is Mom ready yet?\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna and I have something to tell you guys.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMom should be finished getting ready any time now.\u00a0 <\/span>I thought we would have a little bubbly before we left.\u00a0 <\/span>Why don\u2019t you two go into the living room and make yourselves comfortable.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Jason and Brianna arrived beautifully dressed in their party attire; Jason in his Cary Grant-inspired Hugo Boss tuxedo.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna wore an emerald green full-length sequin gown with a sweetheart empire bust and halter strap design with cutouts at the waist to add drama to the plunging low v-back and slim skirt that trailed off into a mini train.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna\u2019s hair was pulled up in a french twist with soft curls flowing down and a Swarovski Crystal scroll design pin to add a touch of sparkle to her hair. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam slipped back into the bedroom he shared with Jessica and found her almost finished getting ready.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica looked elegant in her pure silk black modified mermaid gown with a train which outlined her sexy, well-toned figure.\u00a0 <\/span>The dress had a bead and sequin adorned single strap which came over her right shoulder to a low back. The front of the dress was a delicate princess neckline with light ruching at the bodice and trimmed with an empire inspired band of matching sequins and beading detail that followed just under the bust to the outline of the back.\u00a0 <\/span>Her hair fixed in a updo of soft curls.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked debonair in his Calvin Klein traditional tuxedo with notched satin lapel, satin-covered jacket buttons, and satin stripe down the side of the pants.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWow!\u201d was all Adam could say when he saw his wife in the new gown she had bought just a few weeks before the gala event. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica received the dress from her trusted alterations professional a few days after Christmas and waited to show it to Adam until she could wear it for the special fundraising gala which would double as their anniversary date. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHappy anniversary, my beautiful bride,\u201d Adam said as he came and wrapped his arms around Jessica and kissed her tenderly on the lips. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam presented his wife with a new diamond encrusted cuff bracelet for her anniversary gift. Jessica was in awe of the elegance and beauty of the extravagant gift.\u00a0 <\/span>She chose to wear the bracelet proudly as her only jewelry for the evening in addition to her emerald and diamond wedding ring set as well as a pair of diamond earrings.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam placed the gift on his bride\u2019s right wrist as she said, \u201cThank you, My Love, it\u2019s exquisite! I love it, and I love you!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The couple shared an intimate moment alone in each others\u2019 arms before joining Jason and Brianna.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Jessica headed to the formal living room where they found their son and his girlfriend looking at the leather bound photo album of the photo shoot on the Ponderosa Jason and his two sisters had taken for their parents\u2019 anniversary gift a few years prior. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHappy anniversary, Mom and Dad!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason said as he and Brianna stood up to greet Adam and Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason kissed his mother\u2019s cheek.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou look beautiful in your gown, Brianna!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam said as he wore a grin from ear to ear, checking out the gown from all angles. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica glared at her husband as he made over Brianna\u2019s formal attire.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy thank you, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>You look devilishly handsome yourself tonight,\u201d Brianna said with a bashful smile. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe are going to be escorting the two most beautiful women in the Reno-Tahoe area if not the whole state of Nevada, Dad!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason boasted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think you\u2019re right, Son!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam took the champagne from the ice bucket and popped the cork.\u00a0 <\/span>He poured four glasses of bubbly, and he toasted his bride of ten years as well as his son and his new girlfriend.\u00a0 <\/span>He wished all best wishes for a healthy new year.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the two couples sipped their champagne, Jessica noticed the heart shaped diamond solitaire hanging around Brianna\u2019s neck and complimented her on how lovely it was.<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna thanked Jessica and then looked at Jason as if it was a good segue way into their announcement of the new step in their relationship.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMom, Dad,\u201d Jason said as he grabbed his beloved\u2019s hand, \u201cthe necklace Brianna is wearing is what I gave her for Christmas; however, it was more than a Christmas gift, it\u2019s a sign to her that I have chosen her to one day be my wife.\u00a0 <\/span>While we\u2019re still too young to be engaged, I wanted her to know it is a sign of a promise to her that one day, when it\u2019s right, I\u2019ll be putting a ring on her left finger and asking her to marry me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam was delighted with the news their son announced and Adam kissed and hugged Brianna.\u00a0 <\/span>Filled with shock, Jessica tried to put on a happy face for the couple as she hugged and kissed Jason. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe can\u2019t think of a better daughter-in-law to have in our family, Brianna.\u00a0 <\/span>Welcome!\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re already a part of our hearts,\u201d Adam said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>I feel so loved by you, Jessica and the girls.\u00a0 <\/span>I can\u2019t imagine not being a part of this family from here on out.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m glad this handsome son of yours has chosen me to be his bride one day.\u00a0 <\/span>I hope we can have half the love and happiness you and Jessica have.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe need to tell Emily and Jillian!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason said as he took another drink of his champagne.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam went and got the two girls who were sitting in the family room chowing down on Chinese takeout which was delivered a short time before Jason and Brianna arrived.<\/span><\/p>\n

When the girls entered the room, Emily\u2019s eyes lit up at the gorgeous sexy gown Brianna was wearing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Brie, I love your gown!\u00a0 <\/span>I bet Jason\u2019s eyes about popped out of his head when he first saw you in it.\u00a0 <\/span>We need to talk tomorrow!\u00a0 <\/span>I want to know all the particulars about this fabulous dress!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe approved, that\u2019s for sure!\u201d she winked at her beau.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cYeah! I\u2019d love to tell you all about it!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt is a spectacular piece of work, that\u2019s for sure,\u201d Jessica mused under her breath as she took another sip of her champagne trying not to show what she thought of the dress.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour mother looking stunning in her gown as well, doesn\u2019t she girls?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam said as he put his arm around his wife\u2019s waist.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI picked this dress out, Daddy!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian boasted.<\/span><\/p>\n

Everyone stood in amazement a nine-year-old would choose such a sophisticated, yet, sexy gown.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica beamed with pride at her daughter\u2019s excellent taste.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe did!\u00a0 <\/span>Emily, Jillian, and I went shopping several weeks ago in search of the perfect gown.\u00a0 <\/span>While I was trying on my seventh gown, Jillian spotted this one on a mannequin on the other side of the store.\u00a0 <\/span>She asked the consultant who was helping us, because Kevin, my regular stylist was sick that day, to pull the gown because she thought it was pretty, and she thought it would look good on me.\u00a0 <\/span>When I put it on, I instantly knew this was the dress.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSister, you have great taste!\u00a0 <\/span>You made Mom look like a million bucks!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason complimented Jillian.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, you look stunning,\u201d Emily said as she kissed and hugged her mother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Sweetheart.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI believe your brother has something he wants to share with you two about him and Brianna!\u201d Adam said.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason put his arm around his two sisters and said to both of them, \u201cI love Brianna, and while we\u2019re too young to get engaged still, I\u2019ve given her a diamond heart solitaire necklace as a promise for her to be my wife when the time is right, and she said yes.\u00a0 <\/span>I would like to introduce you to your future sister-in-law!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYea!\u201d Jillian squealed as she jumped up and down.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI love you, Brianna!\u201d she said innocently.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCongratulations, Older Brother!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily said as she hugged and kissed Jason on the cheek.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s going to be fabulous having a sister-in-law who I can go shopping and share fashion talk with!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHold on to your wallet, Son!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam teased, \u201cWhen your mother and sister say those words, they are deadly to the bank account.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The Cartwright adults and Brianna laughed, Emily bopped her father on his chest and Jillian laughed along not understanding what she was laughing at, but laughed because everyone else was laughing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy, I can\u2019t help it if I\u2019m a diva!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily said with attitude and then smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, and your father is the one responsible for it all, too!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica agreed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWho, me?\u00a0 <\/span>No way!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think we need to get moving, Dad.\u00a0 <\/span>The gala is already underway.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica and Adam kissed their daughters, and they went back into the family room and continued watching the movie that they had put in the DVD player. <\/span><\/p>\n

The gala was in full swing with the two couples arrived.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam handed the attendant the four tickets and they all entered the lavishly decorated ballroom at the Atlantis Casino Resort and Spa, which was hosting the New Year\u2019s Eve event on behalf of the hospital.\u00a0 <\/span>A live band was playing tunes from the oldies to today\u2019s hip hop so all of the attendees could dance.\u00a0 <\/span>The hotel had spared no expense on a lavish buffet of hot and cold hors d\u2019oeuvres as well as a carving and pasta stations and an incredible dessert table. <\/span><\/p>\n

The room had several bars set up with free flowing beer, wine, a variety of spirited cocktails as well as an elaborate martini luge and a free flowing champagne fountain.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the guests were mingling around, dancing, eating, and drinking, Brianna was checking out the who\u2019s who of the Carson-Tahoe area.\u00a0 <\/span>When she saw a lovely woman with a gorgeous gown on, she leaned over to Jessica and said, \u201cLook at her dress, it\u2019s exquisite!\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s a beautiful lady, too!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>She knew she was going to like her future daughter-in-law; she was a people watcher, just like herself.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat woman, my dear, is Mrs. Dr. John McIntyre.\u00a0 <\/span>Her husband is my obstetrician-gynecologist, who brought your future husband into the world!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs that her husband next to her? They make a handsome couple.\u00a0 <\/span>I just love her dress!\u00a0 <\/span>I hope Jason and I look as good when we\u2019re their age.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica nodded and sipped her champagne as they continued to check out the other women at the gala. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh my goodness!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna then turned her head and covered her face trying to hold in her laughter.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat? where?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOver to your right, about two o\u2019clock,\u201d Brianna said whispering in Jessica\u2019s ear.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cShe must have been poured into that dress!\u00a0 <\/span>Can she even sit down?\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m afraid if she does, the seam might rip wide open!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh my goodness!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica snickered, \u201cshe\u2019s the wife of the chief of the entire hospital!\u00a0 <\/span>She has never had a flair for fashion, but I\u2019ve never seen her wear a dress that is so tight she can\u2019t sit down!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you two girls giggling about over here?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked with a wry smile on his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, nothing, Babe, nothing!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said as the two girls busted out laughing. <\/span><\/p>\n

Both Adam and Jason looked at each other and shook their heads. They took the arms of their dates and went out into the foyer to check out the items at the silent auction.<\/span><\/p>\n

In the foyer of the ballroom were tables lined with jewelry, lavish trips, weekend getaways at the host hotel with spa packages, and automobiles among other generously donated items by different people and corporations to benefit the building of the new cancer wing at the Carson-Tahoe Medical Center. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam had allocated a certain percentage of Jason\u2019s trust fund with which he could bid on items he was interested in at the gala.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason\u2019s childhood friend had succumbed to brain cancer when he was thirteen, and Jason was finally at a place where he could honor his friend\u2019s memory by helping donate money to build a wing to the hospital which could one day save the life of someone like his friend, Peter.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica and Adam looked at several of the items in which they were interested in bidding, and Brianna even made independent bids on items which appealed to her.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason marked several items which interested him as well. The bidding on all auction items would end at 10:30 PM and the winners would be announced shortly before midnight when everyone would ring in the new year. <\/span><\/p>\n

Once everyone made their bids, Jason and Brianna met up with Adam and Jessica, and they headed back into the ballroom to find their table.\u00a0 <\/span>The men allowed their significant others to fill up their plates with food while they headed to the bar to for wine and spirited cocktails. <\/span><\/p>\n

The Cartwrights and Brianna enjoyed the gourmet buffet as all four were starving by the time they reached the gala.\u00a0 <\/span>After they had chowed down the culinary delights, Adam and Jessica enjoyed watching their son dance to the fast paced tunes of today\u2019s hits while they enjoyed the slower more intimate songs.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason danced with his mother to a few of the hits of her era while Adam took up a few spots on Brianna\u2019s dance card. <\/span><\/p>\n

When the silent auction came to a close, the winners were announced.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam and Jessica, Jason and Brianna were all the winning bids on several items at auction.\u00a0 <\/span>The night was a huge success for the hospital, and at the end of the announcement of the silent auction winners, it was announced a name chosen for the cancer wing of the hospital.\u00a0 <\/span>The largest benefactor of the evening, Franklin Davis, grandson would be the new name of the new cancer wing of the hospital and Jason almost fainted when he heard the new name, The Peter Davis Memorial Cancer Center.\u00a0 <\/span>His childhood friend, Peter\u2019s grandfather, named the new wing in his grandson\u2019s memory after he passed away when he was just thirteen years old.<\/span><\/p>\n

Moved to tears, Jason and Brianna hugged Franklin as Jason couldn\u2019t hold back his emotions for his dear friend.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI miss him to this day.\u00a0 <\/span>We had known each other since we were three.\u00a0 <\/span>We went to school with each other, and we played together.\u00a0 <\/span>When he got sick, it was hard for me to grasp. What a beautiful memorial to Peter\u2019s memory.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe was an excellent boy, Son.\u00a0 <\/span>We miss him greatly, too,\u201d Jessica said as she hugged her son.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHis grandfather has done a beautiful thing, honoring Peter\u2019s memory this way,\u201d Adam said with a somber look on his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the time wound down to midnight, the master of ceremonies came to the microphone on the stage and asked everyone to grab a glass of champagne which was being passed by the wait staff. As the young waitress came by the Cartwright\u2019s and Brie, they each grabbed a drink and waited for the final ten seconds of the year.<\/span><\/p>\n

10-9-8-7-6-5-4-3-2-1-<\/em> \u201cHAPPY NEW YEAR!\u201d the entire room yelled as they all drank from their champagne glasses and started kissing their dates as balloons and confetti fell from the ceiling.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHappy new year, Jess.\u00a0 <\/span>I love you,\u201d Adam said as he took his wife into his arms and planted a deep sexy kiss on her lips.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHappy New Year, Brie, I can\u2019t wait to make you my wife,\u201d Jason said to his woman as he took her face into his hands and gave her a tender kiss and then took her into his arms, dipped her back and planted a big kiss on her lips.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica and Adam laughed at Brianna because she was taken back by Jason\u2019s extravagant display of affection.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWOW!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>I wasn\u2019t expecting that!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna said with a big smile on her face.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam slapped his son on his back and said, \u201cThat\u2019s the man I raised…show his girl she\u2019s the most important person in his life!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTrust me, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>He does show me every day how important I am to him and how much he loves me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica stood next to Adam sipping her champagne glaring at Brianna.\u00a0 <\/span>When her son came to give her a New Year\u2019s kiss, she gladly accepted one on the cheek and gave him a hug.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHappy New Year, Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>I love you very much.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna gave Adam a New year\u2019s hug, and he kissed her on the cheek as they both wished each other a Happy New Year.<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna then turned to Jessica and smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>She extended her arms for a hug and Jessica gave her a light hug, kissed her on the cheek,\u00a0 <\/span>and wished her a Happy New Year.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna was very excited to be sharing such a happy occasion with her future-in-laws, she didn\u2019t see the jealousy brewing inside Jessica.<\/span><\/p>\n

When the four arrived back home, they found Emily watching a late night movie while Jillian slept on her lap. Jason peeked in on his two sisters, and Emily smiled when she saw him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow was the gala, Older Brother?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was fantastic!\u201d he said as he and Brianna walked in the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe had a wonderful time,\u201d Brianna added.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou want me to carry Jillian to her room, Em?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, she\u2019s sleeping hard.\u00a0 <\/span>She probably won\u2019t even wake up.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason carefully picked up his sister and he and Brianna took Jillian into her room and laid her in her bed.\u00a0 <\/span>They both kissed Jillian on her forehead and stood arm in arm as they watched her sleep. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t wait to have our children, Jason,\u201d Brianna whispered as she laid her head on his chest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t wait either, Sweetheart,\u201d Jason said in return as he kissed her head.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cCome on, let me show you where you\u2019ll be sleeping for the next few nights.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Jason and Brianna came out of Jillian\u2019s room, Jessica was headed down the hall to her bedroom she shared with Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam had already retired to their room, and Jessica was putting away the glasses and champagne bottle away from the living room where the foursome had the pre-gala toast.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood night, Mom.\u00a0 <\/span>We had a fantastic time tonight.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m going to show Brianna where she\u2019s sleeping this evening.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, Son. I love you,\u201d she said as she kissed her son on his cheek.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood night, Brianna,\u201d Jessica said as she gave her son\u2019s girlfriend a light hug.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGoodnight, Jessica,\u201d Brianna could feel the tenseness in Jessica\u2019s demeanor. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jason and Brianna walked in his room and shut the door.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica\u2019s eyes widened, and she shook her head and headed down to her room where Adam had already stripped down to his boxers and was taking down the bed covers preparing their marital bed for sleeping.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour mother seems to be hot and cold with me, Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m not sure if she likes me or not,\u201d Brianna commented.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMom loves you, Brie.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s probably just tired.\u00a0 <\/span>If my mom truly didn\u2019t like you, believe me, you would know it.\u00a0 <\/span>She doesn\u2019t hide it when she doesn\u2019t like someone, trust me.\u00a0 <\/span>When she and Dad were divorced,\u201d Jason sighed, \u201cMom didn\u2019t hold back with her anger at my dad sometimes.\u00a0 <\/span>They thought they hid it well from Emily and me, but they didn\u2019t.\u00a0 <\/span>We just let them believe they did.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour mom and dad seem so much in love.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s hard to imagine they were once divorced and at each other’s throats.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was a horrible two years for my sister and me,\u201d Jason said somberly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna hugged Jason and didn\u2019t say anything.\u00a0 <\/span>She knew the memories were hard and painful for him.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Jessica entered the bedroom, she shut the door and started in on Adam about Brianna and Jason.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI just passed our son in the hallway with his girlfriend.\u00a0 <\/span>Do you know he went into his room with her and shut the door?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s sleeping in there tonight, Jess.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason\u2019s sleeping in the den.\u00a0 <\/span>What\u2019s the problem?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s the problem, Adam?\u00a0 <\/span>Do I need to spell it out for you?\u00a0 <\/span>Your son just went into his bedroom with a girl he loves and shut the door!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam came over to Jessica and turned her around.\u00a0 <\/span>He started to unzip her dress, and she stepped out of it standing in just her panties and black heels. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, what if Jason decides to stay with Brianna in his room tonight!\u00a0 <\/span>Get him out of there!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stood back and pointed to the fact that he had already undressed and was only wearing boxers.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou want me to go like this?\u201d he started to play with Jessica to break her out of her funk.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica pounded on Adam\u2019s chest.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cNo! put on a robe, silly!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam took his half naked woman into his arms. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLook, our son\u2019s an adult.\u00a0 <\/span>I doubt he\u2019s going to have sex with his girlfriend in our home, but if he does, so what?\u00a0 <\/span>They love each other.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t believe you, Adam Cartwright!\u00a0 <\/span>If you don’t talk to our son, I will!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica put on her silk robe and started for the door.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam grabbed her arm and said, \u201cNo, stay here, get in bed.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll talk to him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam grabbed his robe and headed down the hall to Jason\u2019s room.\u00a0 <\/span>He decided to check the den first to see if possibly he was already there hoping not to cause an embarrassing scene for himself or the two kids.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam knocked on the door to the den and Jason answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Dad, is there something you need in here?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Son, everything\u2019s okay.\u00a0 <\/span>Go on to bed,\u201d Adam said as he turned to walk away.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad! Can I talk to you just a second?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam turned around, came back and walked into the den.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s up, Jason?\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s getting late; I\u2019m tired.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad, does Mom like Brie?\u00a0 <\/span>I mean, she seems to like her one minute, but the next, she has a very tense look about her and, I don\u2019t know, she just at times seems almost jealous of her.\u00a0 <\/span>I mean no disrespect to Mom but, I don\u2019t know.\u00a0 <\/span>I can\u2019t put my finger on it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled and put his arm around his son. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, your mother, loves Brie, we all do.\u00a0 <\/span>What\u2019s there not to love about her?\u00a0 <\/span>Mom\u2019s just having a hard time adjusting to sharing her baby boy with another woman; there’s nothing to it. Nothing for you to concern yourself with.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason breathed a sigh of relief.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cThank goodness!\u00a0 <\/span>I thought she didn\u2019t care for her too much and was just being polite to her to appease me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam laughed again, \u201cYour mother?\u00a0 <\/span>She never fakes anything.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica\u2019s the world\u2019s worst liar.\u00a0 <\/span>She loves Brie, Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s just having a hard time letting go and letting another woman into her baby\u2019s life. That\u2019s all.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Dad.\u00a0 <\/span>I needed to hear that.\u00a0 <\/span>I would never say anything to Mom about it.\u00a0 <\/span>Brie was a little worried; she loves all of you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam hugged his son and wished him a goodnight and told him not to worry about anything where his mother and Brianna were concerned.<\/span><\/p>\n

Upon returning to their room, Jessica was already in bed.\u00a0 <\/span>When Adam got in bed, Jessica opened her eyes and said, \u201cWas Jason still in his room with Brie?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Jess, he was already in the den getting the couch ready to go to bed himself.\u00a0 <\/span>Your fears were unfounded.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam took his wife into his arms, and she laid her head on his chest, and he kissed her head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou’re having the classic symptoms of letting go of your baby boy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI want him to be happy, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>I just don\u2019t want him to rush into anything.\u00a0 <\/span>He\u2019s only nineteen!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJess! We were just nineteen!\u00a0 <\/span>I keep telling you that!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, I know!\u201d she said as she kissed Adam\u2019s chest.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI\u2019m just in mommy protective mode, I guess.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou guess?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam laughed.\u00a0 <\/span>He turned his wife over and gave her a tender kiss on her lips. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re a great mom. Jason is very much in love.\u00a0 <\/span>We raised a great kid, and he\u2019s become an honorable man.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe we should work on having another baby boy for you to spoil for another nineteen years,\u201d Adam joked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam Cartwright!\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica laughed.\u00a0 <\/span>My baby making days are over.\u00a0 <\/span>However, my beautiful husband, making love to you is always a welcomed pleasure.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam started to kiss his wife on her neck, and the two enjoyed a night of passionate love with each other, celebrating their ten years of remarriage.<\/span><\/p>\n

On New Year\u2019s Day, the eve of Brianna\u2019s departure, Jessica made a home cooked dinner for the family.\u00a0 <\/span>They all feasted on the prime rib roast cooked to a medium perfection along with fingerling potatoes and carrots.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna told Jessica she would like her to teach her techniques to her when she could stay longer.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica looked forward to spending some quality time with her future daughter-in-law and teach her some of Jason\u2019s favorite recipes. <\/span><\/p>\n

The next day, Jason and the family took Brianna to the airport where they exchanged a tearful farewell.\u00a0 <\/span>It would be two more weeks before Jason and Brianna would be back in each other’s arms again as they would be starting their spring semester at school.\u00a0 <\/span>They were already making plans for Brianna to come back in the spring so Jason could take her to some of the historical sites she had only read about in her history books. <\/span><\/p>\n

Before Brianna crossed through security, she hugged each of the Cartwrights and told them she had a wonderful time and already felt like part of the family, and she looked forward to her next visit.<\/span><\/p>\n

Chapter Five<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

With spring\u2019s arrival to Nevada, Adam decided he wanted to get a jump on the lawn by laying the pre-emergent fertilizer on the grass to keep the dormant weeds from coming up as the temperatures climbed through the spring and summer months.\u00a0 <\/span>After breakfast, he went to the nursery to buy fertilizer.\u00a0 <\/span>Returning home, Adam left his keys, iPhone, and wallet sitting on the kitchen island when he went out to work in the yard. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica was in the kitchen making out her grocery list for the week when she heard Adam\u2019s phone ring.\u00a0 <\/span>She walked over, picked it up and noticed the display read Boston, MA,\u00a0 <\/span>and a phone number not from his contact list. \u00a0 <\/span>She feared something might have happened to Jason, so she answered the phone. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHello?\u201d she said in a hurried tone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, I was trying to reach Adam Cartwright.\u00a0 <\/span>I guess I\u2019ve dialed the wrong number.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sorry to have bothered you,\u201d said the female voice on the other end of the line.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica\u2019s face grew with worry.\u00a0 <\/span>The person\u2019s voice on the other end of the line was not one she recognized. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis is Adam Cartwright\u2019s number, I\u2019m his wife, Jessica Cartwright, are you calling regarding our son, Jason?\u201d she asked, trying to keep her worry from showing in her voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

The mystery woman\u2019s voice on the other end of the line sounded surprised when she heard Jessica say she was Adam\u2019s wife.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJessica?\u201d the voice from Boston asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, and who is this, may I ask?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica\u2019s voice was starting to sound annoyed, wanting to know who this woman was and why she was calling her husband.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJessica, this is Rebecca Roberts.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m trying to reach Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Is he available?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica felt weak when she learned who the mystery woman was.\u00a0 <\/span>She had not heard or thought about Rebecca since shortly after she and Adam had broken up. Jessica wondered why after all this time, she would be calling Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s outside working in the yard, let me get him for you,\u201d Jessica said coolly. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica didn\u2019t want to deny Adam the phone call because she knew if she did, and Adam found out later she had run interference between him and Rebecca again, he might have a similar reaction to the one he had the first time.\u00a0 <\/span>The time he learned Jessica had sent Rebecca away when he was in the ICU after his car wreck; when they were divorced, and Jason and Emily were very young.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica went to the front door and called Adam\u2019s name, but he didn\u2019t see or hear her with the mower going.\u00a0 <\/span>As he turned and made his way back toward the front of the house, he saw Jessica standing on the porch.\u00a0 <\/span>When she realized she had his attention, she waved for him to come to her.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam shut off the mower and came to see what she needed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou have a phone call, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>You probably should take this call.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWho is it?\u00a0 <\/span>Can you ask them to call me back or take a message?\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m right in the middle of mowing the lawn!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam\u2019s voice was agitated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think you need to take this call now, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Just take it,\u201d Jessica\u2019s voice was urgent.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWho is it?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam was insistent.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJust take the damn call will you?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica\u2019s voice grew irritable. <\/span><\/p>\n

As the two walked in the house, Jessica said, \u201cShe\u2019s on your cell, in the kitchen.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam hurried into the kitchen, picked up his phone and answered, \u201cAdam Cartwright.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

After a few moments, Adam\u2019s face showed shock as he said, \u201cRebecca? You\u2019re a voice from the past!\u00a0 <\/span>My goodness, how the heck are you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica continued to look through the cabinets and the refrigerator to complete her shopping list and tried to act as if she didn\u2019t care her husband was talking to an old flame, but her blood pressure was on its way through the roof.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Adam asked Rebecca what she had been up to all these years, he walked out of the kitchen and went down the hall into the office and closed the door.\u00a0 <\/span>No longer able to hear Adam\u2019s voice, Jessica went in search of her husband and noted that the door to the office, closed.\u00a0 <\/span>She walked down the hall and heard his voice laughing through the door.\u00a0 <\/span>Hurt filled her body as Jessica thought about the woman who almost came between her and Adam reuniting ten years before.\u00a0 <\/span>Trying to get her mind off the phone call, she went back to the kitchen to grab her purse and keys so she could leave for the market.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, where are you going?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily rounded the corner into the kitchen and saw her mother\u2019s body language was tense and stressed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going to the market.\u00a0 <\/span>Do you want to come with me?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked her middle child in hopes her daughter would keep her distracted and keep her mind off the phone call.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, hang on, let me go turn off the radio in my room.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica went and got in the car.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily quickly returned and jumped in the front seat of the Lexus SUV, and the two Cartwright women headed toward the market.<\/span><\/p>\n

Not knowing Jessica or his daughter had left, Adam continued his conversation with his old flame whom he had not spoken to in over ten years.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow are you?\u00a0 <\/span>Are you still the Chief at Children\u2019s Boston?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Adam, I\u2019m not.\u00a0 <\/span>I got married, and about five years ago and shortly after, I found out I was pregnant with twin girls!\u00a0 <\/span>My husband, Dave, and I decided it was time for me to hang up my stethoscope and I\u2019m now a full-time mother of two five-year-old girls.\u00a0 <\/span>I thought I would miss medicine, but being a full-time mommy and watching my babies grow is more rewarding than being a doctor could ever be for me.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m happy and content.\u00a0 <\/span>How about you, Adam?\u00a0 <\/span>When I called, and Jessica answered the phone, I didn\u2019t think I had the right number.\u00a0 <\/span>When she told me it was indeed still your number, I guess she thought I was calling about your son, Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>She said she\u2019s your wife now?\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, shortly after you left for Boston, I decided I should try to put my marriage back together.\u00a0 <\/span>You leaving and telling me to be good to Jessica made me realize you must have seen something in me I was trying to deny, and that was the fact I still loved her very much. We talked about it, and we started taking things day by day.\u00a0 <\/span>She got pregnant shortly after we started seeing each other again and we ended up getting married in December of the same year when we knew our daughter was on the way.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason\u2019s in college now; he\u2019s attending M.I.T. at Cambridge, Emily\u2019s fifteen and just started high school this year, and my youngest, Jillian, is nine.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica and I just celebrated our tenth wedding anniversary a few months ago.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I\u2019m happy to hear your life has turned out so well.\u00a0 <\/span>I knew I had hurt you by leaving so abruptly…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, you did,\u201d Adam interrupted with a somber voice, remembering the cold, wet fall evening Rebecca ended their relationship.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid you receive my Christmas card?\u00a0 <\/span>I never heard from you after that, so I assumed that it never arrived.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI did get it.\u00a0 <\/span>The mail carrier accidentally put the letter in my father\u2019s mailbox by mistake.\u00a0 <\/span>Dad gave it to me in private on Christmas Day; I read it when we returned home Christmas night.\u00a0 <\/span>I had just found out Jessica was pregnant, and I also asked her to marry me.\u00a0 <\/span>Since we had let each other go a few months prior, I didn\u2019t see a need to respond back.\u00a0 <\/span>We both needed to move on with our lives.\u00a0 <\/span>I was genuinely happy you had found someone new and had fallen in love.\u00a0 <\/span>I won\u2019t lie and say it didn\u2019t hurt, but I was happy in my life with Jessica and the kids.\u00a0 <\/span>I had a new baby on the way, and I couldn\u2019t be selfish and not be happy for you.\u00a0 <\/span>Given both of our circumstances, I felt it was best to leave things the way we had left them when you left that night in September.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI understand,\u201d Rebecca said with a note of sadness in her voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure you\u2019re wondering after all this time, why I\u2019m calling, huh?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, the thought did cross my mind a bit, but it’s great to hear your voice nonetheless.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy husband, Dave, is coming out to Reno for a medical conference next month, and my mother has told me she wants to come and take care of the girls so Dave and I can have a bit of a second honeymoon together.\u00a0 <\/span>Dave works incredibly hard and long hours so we don\u2019t have much time just to ourselves, so Mother is coming out, and I\u2019ll be accompanying him to the conference.\u00a0 <\/span>After the three-day conference, we\u2019re staying on an extra four days to see friends, head up to Lake Tahoe and relax.\u00a0 <\/span>I would love to see you.\u00a0 <\/span>Dave knows about you, and he said he would like to meet the man who let me go so we could meet and fall in love.\u00a0 <\/span>Would you be up to it?\u00a0 <\/span>We would like to meet up with you and Jessica for dinner one night if you’re free.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam sat at his desk and rubbed his face.\u00a0 <\/span>How would he feel seeing Rebecca for the first time in ten years and with another man who was her husband? <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe would love to get together with you, Becky, under one condition.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s that, Adam?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou let me pick up the tab for dinner.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I\u2019m calling you asking you to dinner.\u00a0 <\/span>Dave will want this to be our treat.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI won\u2019t hear of it.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019ll be our guest, and I insist.\u00a0 <\/span>I would also love it if you two come to the house first.\u00a0 <\/span>We could have some drinks and talk before we head to dinner.\u00a0 <\/span>What do you say?\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure Dave would be open to the arrangement.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll talk with him, see what he has planned, and I\u2019ll get back with you on a date in a day or two.\u00a0 <\/span>Is your email address at work still the same?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, just shoot me an email and we\u2019ll keep in contact via email.\u00a0 <\/span>Rebecca? It was great hearing your voice again.\u00a0 <\/span>I look forward to seeing you,\u201d Adam\u2019s voice was soft and tender.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was good hearing your voice too, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve missed you,\u201d Rebecca responded in a like tone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve got to go.\u00a0 <\/span>I was in the middle of mowing the yard when you called.\u00a0 <\/span>I look forward to hearing from you soon,\u201d Adam said as he shook himself back into reality.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, okay.\u00a0 <\/span>Take care, Adam, and I look forward to seeing you next month,\u201d Rebecca’s voice was a bit shaky.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam hung up his phone and set it down on the desk.\u00a0 <\/span>He recalled the whole conversation in his head.\u00a0 <\/span>A smile came to his face at the thought of seeing Rebecca again and wondered how she looked after ten years.\u00a0 <\/span>He was eager to see how motherhood had changed her.\u00a0 <\/span>He looked forward to spending an evening with her and her husband.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam wanted to see what man had stolen the heart of the woman he once loved and cared for deeply.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Jessica and Emily drove toward the market, Emily saw her mother was tense, and she was not her usual bubbly self.\u00a0 <\/span>She needed to talk to both her mother and father about some recent happenings in her life and wasn\u2019t sure how her father would respond so she took this mother and daughter time together to seek her advice, in hopes, everything would go the way she wanted.\u00a0 <\/span>Seeing her mother a bit distracted, she thought, could play to her advantage.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, I wanted to come with you so I could talk to you about something.\u00a0 <\/span>I know you and Daddy said I can\u2019t date until I\u2019m sixteen, but there\u2019s a boy at school, his name is Trey Hollingsworth, and he\u2019s a junior this year.\u00a0 <\/span>He\u2019s asked me to the junior\/senior prom next month. \u00a0 <\/span>Can I please go?\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s not like we\u2019d be going out on a one on one date or anything.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s a school function, and there\u2019ll be other kids, and there\u2019s going to be teachers at the prom, too!\u00a0 <\/span>Trey and several of his buddies are renting a limo, and it will take us to and from the prom so it\u2019s not as I\u2019ll ever be alone with him.\u00a0 <\/span>Mom, I want to go!\u00a0 <\/span>Trey is the most popular boy in school, and he\u2019s asked me to be his date!\u00a0 <\/span>Can I please go?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoney, I don\u2019t have a problem with it, but you need to talk to Daddy about it, too.\u00a0 <\/span>He has the final say so,\u201d Jessica said not digesting what her daughter was asking because she was so distracted with her nemesis, Rebecca.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily started to whine, \u201cWill you talk to him?\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m afraid he won\u2019t let me go!\u00a0 <\/span>Daddy is over protective of me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica tried to shake her insecurities about Rebecca and turned her focus to her daughter\u2019s concerns.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily, Daddy loves you and doesn\u2019t want anything bad to happen to you.\u00a0 <\/span>When you were almost taken from us a few years ago, he worried for your safety until that jerk was locked up. You have to see it from his perspective,\u201d Jessica argued in her husband\u2019s defense even though she was furious with him at taking his call with Rebecca into the office and closing the door for privacy.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy has nothing to be worried about where Trey and I are concerned.\u00a0 <\/span>There will be adults at the party.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll have dinner and then go on to the dance.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll be safe.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sure Trey will make sure no harm comes to me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not going to advocate for you, Honey. You need to talk to Daddy about it when we get home.\u00a0 <\/span>He has the final say.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Tears filled Emily\u2019s eyes, and she started to cry.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI might as well just call Trey right now and tell him that I can\u2019t go because my parents won\u2019t let me because they think I\u2019m too young.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Emily, stop the waterworks.\u00a0 <\/span>Daddy hasn\u2019t said no yet.\u00a0 <\/span>He might allow you to go to the prom since it\u2019s a school dance of sorts.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily\u2019s tears started to dry up.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cDo you think he will, Mommy?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, Honey, but talk to him when we get home, okay?\u00a0 <\/span>At least see what he says.\u00a0 <\/span>Don\u2019t just jump to conclusions.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica and Emily arrived at the grocery store and got everything on Jessica\u2019s list and more. Emily kept finding things she wanted Jessica to buy for her to eat.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica allowed her the healthy foods but made her put back the junk, much to Emily\u2019s disappointment.<\/span><\/p>\n

Upon Jessica\u2019s and Emily\u2019s arrival back home, Adam heard the garage door open, so he met his two girls in the garage to bring the grocery bags into the house for them.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica couldn’t look at Adam because her anger towards him was high for taking a call from Rebecca, whom he knew was someone who Jessica had never cared for, ever. <\/span><\/p>\n

Once Adam had brought all the bags in, he started to pull the groceries from the bags and helped to put them away.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily turned on her \u2018daddy\u2019s little girl charm trying to soften him up so he wouldn\u2019t be able to resist denying her the chance to go to the prom with the most popular boy in school.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHere, Daddy, I\u2019ll help Mommy.\u00a0 <\/span>Why don\u2019t you sit down and I\u2019ll make you a glass of lemonade, or would you prefer water?\u00a0 <\/span>You look hot and sweaty, Daddy.\u00a0 <\/span>Can I get you a cold, wet towel?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily said as she was wiping the sweat beads from her father\u2019s bare shoulders. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow much money do you need, Princess?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked with a raised eyebrow, thinking he was being set up by his daughter for something she wanted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNow, Daddy, why is it that I can\u2019t do anything nice for you and you think I want something in return?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily stood with her hands on her hips, just like her mother always did when she was exposed to wanting Adam\u2019s approval for something he would normally say no to.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJessica, are you and Emily ganging up on me for something?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked playfully.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis is between you and your daughter, Adam,\u201d Jessica replied with a crisp response as she continued to put away the groceries without even a look in Adam\u2019s direction.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs there something you want to talk to me about, Princess?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked his daughter as she sat down a glass of lemonade for her daddy.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily walked behind and Adam and wrapped her arms around her father\u2019s bare shoulders.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy, Trey Hollingsworth, the most popular boy in school, has asked me to go the prom with him next month.\u00a0 <\/span>Can I please go with him?\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s not a date, Daddy, it\u2019s a school dance, and there will be teachers there as chaperones.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam took a drink from his lemonade and looked at his daughter who had placed her head on his shoulders and stuck out her bottom lip in a pout hoping it would melt her daddy\u2019s resolve.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily, you know the rule about dating, no going out with boys until you are sixteen.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sorry, Princess, but my answer is no.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily immediately pulled away from her father and turned on the tears.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cBut why, Daddy?\u201d Emily\u2019s voice began to rise in an argumentative tone.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI\u2019m fifteen, and I\u2019ll be sixteen in October! There are going to be other boys and girls going.\u00a0 <\/span>Trey and I won\u2019t be on a one on one date.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s a school dance!\u00a0 <\/span>How much trouble can I get into at a school dance?\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy said I could go, why can\u2019t you say yes, too?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou need to calm down, young lady.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam\u2019s voice began to rise.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cYou know the rules.\u00a0 <\/span>You have to be sixteen before you can go on a date with a boy and that includes the school prom.\u00a0 <\/span>End of discussion.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam got up from his chair and took his glass to the sink and grabbed an apple from the produce bag still sitting on the island.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica continued to put the groceries away and acted as if there was not an argument brewing between her husband and their daughter in the same room. <\/span><\/p>\n

Emily not wanting to take Adam\u2019s no as his final answer, she continued to argue with her father in a disrespectful tone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think you’re entirely unreasonable, Daddy.\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy doesn\u2019t have a problem with me going since it\u2019s a school function.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t know why you can\u2019t see it from her perspective.\u00a0 <\/span>You smother me too much!\u00a0 <\/span>Why can\u2019t you let me grow up?\u00a0 <\/span>You want to treat me like I\u2019m four years old all the time!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily\u2019s voice grew louder than before Adam said no. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe because you\u2019re acting like a four-year-old, Princess!\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s voice trumped his daughter\u2019s level as his temper flared with his daughter challenging his decision.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not four, Daddy!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily yelled back.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cIf I were Jason, you would be falling all over him, allowing him to go.\u00a0 <\/span>You would probably agree to pay for the limo rental, too!\u00a0 <\/span>You’ll do anything for your fair-haired Jason!\u00a0 <\/span>He gets everything, but if I want something, forget it; you\u2019re not old enough yet, is the response I always get!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily screamed through her sobs.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam took a deep breath and replied with a very irritated tone, \u201cKeep it up, Emily, and I\u2019ll turn you over my knee like I did when you were four years old.\u00a0 <\/span>I said no, and that\u2019s my final answer.\u00a0 <\/span>You can cry all you want, but continue to act like a baby; you can go to your room.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily threw up her hands in total exasperation.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI hate you, Daddy!\u201d she screamed and stormed off.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam started to go after her, and teach her a lesson about respect, but stopped when he heard his wife say, \u201cLet her be, Adam,\u201d in a very irritated tone. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam whipped around in total disbelief his wife would condone such behavior from their daughter talking to him the way she just did.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat did you just say to me?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked with his eyes narrowed and his brow raised.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica looked at Adam with cold eyes and said, \u201cLet her be, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>You created the monster, now you have to live with her acting this way.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd what do you mean by that statement, Jessica?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam demanded to know, now stirring an argument with his wife.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou spoil her rotten.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s such a daddy\u2019s little girl.\u00a0 <\/span>You give in to her every whim.\u00a0 <\/span>You call her your princess, and you coddle her, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Of course, she\u2019s going to act out when she doesn\u2019t get her way, but honestly, I have to agree with Emily, you are a bit unreasonable.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s fifteen, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Let her go to the damn prom with the boy.\u00a0 <\/span>You have to let her grow up eventually.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen we had children, Jessica,\u201d his tone was frustrated, \u201cwe both agreed on certain things when rearing our children, and one was we would not let them date until they were sixteen.\u00a0 <\/span>When did you get off the same boat we were both on when we first got married? I intend to hold true to the agreement we made.\u00a0 <\/span>As for Emily being a daddy\u2019s girl, she\u2019s no more a daddy\u2019s girl than Jillian is a mommy\u2019s girl, so cut the crap about me spoiling Emily when you are just as guilty with Jillian.\u00a0 <\/span>Besides, you are one to talk about letting our children grow up when you got all twisted at Christmas when Jason brought a girl home for us to meet.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason saw right through your facade, Jessica.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf you don\u2019t like how I parent my children, why don\u2019t you just go back to your lady doctor honey,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica yelled as she turned to walk away.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam grabbed Jessica\u2019s arm as she walked by him, and her head whipped around as she said with tears puddling in her eyes, \u201cLet go of me, Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

She tried to hold back the tears from all the anger and jealousy raging inside her pre-menopausal body but was failing miserably.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot until you tell me what you meant by your last statement, Jessica,\u201d Adam\u2019s voice was now lower, but still enraged. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou took the phone call from that woman.\u00a0 <\/span>You left the kitchen, went into the office, and shut the door.\u00a0 <\/span>What am I supposed to think, Adam?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica laughed nervously.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs this why you\u2019ve been so quiet since you got home from the grocery store?\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re mad because Rebecca called?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam laughed in disbelief.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cEven for you, Jessica, you\u2019re blowing this way out of proportion,\u201d Adam let go of his wife\u2019s arm, as he started to walk out of the kitchen.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAm I now? How long have you two been carrying on behind my back, Adam?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica\u2019s voice started to rise as she followed him into the family room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t start this, Jessica. You know Rebecca lives in Boston now and guess what?\u00a0 <\/span>News flash,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>sarcastically, Adam advised her as he got in her face, \u201cShe\u2019s married, and so am I…To you!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t find any of this amusing, Adam,\u201d Jessica\u2019s sorrow turned to anger.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t either, Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t know who the bigger baby is right now.\u00a0 <\/span>You or Emily.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica slapped Adam across the face and went to her\u2019s and Adam\u2019s bedroom. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica was laying down on the bed crying when she heard the door open.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam walked in, but he didn\u2019t come to console her. Instead, he walked into the closet and grabbed a shirt, put it on, and started buttoning it up. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhere are you going?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica demanded to know.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOut, I\u2019m not going to fight with you, Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s a losing battle any which way I look at it, so instead of continuing this argument and eventually saying hurtful things we will both regret, I\u2019m just going to leave until we can both calm down.\u00a0 <\/span>Before I go, however, I\u2019m going to ground Emily for the way she spoke to me earlier.\u00a0 <\/span>I ask you, please support me when she comes crying to you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI just don\u2019t….\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica stopped mid sentence.\u00a0 <\/span>She decided she wasn\u2019t going to keep fanning the flames of the argument Adam was trying to defuse.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you want to say, Jess?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked as he finished tucking in his shirt.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNothing, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Just go.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Without another word, Adam left the bedroom.\u00a0 <\/span>He stopped off at Emily\u2019s room and knocked on the door.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cEmily, it\u2019s Daddy, open the door.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily didn\u2019t answer her father\u2019s request, so he knocked again and in a more forceful tone he said, \u201cEmily, this is not a request, open this door, now.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily came to the door and opened it.\u00a0 <\/span>She stood with her hands crossed around her waist and didn\u2019t say a word.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI will not tolerate the tone in which you spoke to me today ever again.\u00a0 <\/span>You cannot always have your way.\u00a0 <\/span>I make my decisions based on what I deem appropriate to raise you.\u00a0 <\/span>When you\u2019re an adult living on your own, you can make the decisions, but until then I call the shots in this house.\u00a0 <\/span>Until further notice, young lady, you are grounded.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily stood stoic, not saying a word.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam walked away.\u00a0 <\/span>Before he got to the end of the hall, he heard Emily slam her door shut.\u00a0 <\/span>He started to turn around and make her punishment more severe, but continued on to the garage instead. \u00a0He got in his Porsche and drove to the park and took a long walk.<\/span><\/p>\n

After walking for about an hour, he sat on a bench and watched the young children play on the slide, swings, and merry-go-round.\u00a0 <\/span>He reminisced back to the day when he had brought Jason and Emily to the park when they were little and shared custody of the children when he and Jessica were divorced.\u00a0 <\/span>He recalled Jason falling from the swings and Rebecca coming to help.\u00a0 <\/span>He smiled when he remembered their coffee date afterward and how their friendship blossomed from that day forward. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy are you so jealous of her, Jessica?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>He asked himself quietly as he sat alone listening to the giggles of the children playing.\u00a0 <\/span>He shook his head and continued to watch the parents interact with their children, remembering happier days when his children depended on him and Jessica for everything. <\/span><\/p>\n

Back at the house, Jessica continued to lie down and to try and relax her body.\u00a0 <\/span>A migraine was trying to take hold; she hoped it would be enough to ward off the debilitating headache.\u00a0 <\/span>She heard a quiet knock on the door; it was her youngest child, Jillian.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome in,\u201d she said as she placed a cold rag on her forehead.\u00a0 <\/span>The next thing she heard was a small, scared voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, why were Daddy and Emily screaming at each other?\u00a0 <\/span>They scared me,\u201d Jillian whimpered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica took the rag off her head, sat up in bed, and had her daughter climb on her lap, and she held her tight in her arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy\u2019s sorry Daddy and Emily’s arguing scared you, Baby Girl.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily wanted something and Daddy told her no.\u00a0 <\/span>She got very upset; she said things she didn\u2019t mean.\u00a0 <\/span>He went out for a little bit, but when he comes home, I \u2019ll make sure he comes and talks to you, okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian started to cry.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI don\u2019t want Daddy to be mad at Emily, Mommy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Baby Girl, I don\u2019t want him to be mad either but sometimes Daddies and Mommies get upset at their children and children, too, get angry at their mommies and daddies.\u00a0 <\/span>It doesn\u2019t mean we don\u2019t love you, though.\u00a0 <\/span>Daddy loves you with all of his heart.\u00a0 <\/span>He would never intentionally scare you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy?\u201d Jillian looked up at Jessica with wet eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Baby Girl?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m glad you\u2019re my Mommy.\u00a0 <\/span>I love you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, too!\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy\u2019s glad God gave you to Mommy and Daddy to love.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, will you play Barbies with me?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian asked with such innocence.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBaby Girl, I would love to, but mommy\u2019s head hurts right now.\u00a0 <\/span>I need to lay down, but if I\u2019m feeling better later, I’ll come and play Barbies with you, okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian smiled at Jessica, and she kissed her cheek.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cOkay, Mommy. I want you to lay down so your head won\u2019t hurt.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian got down and took her mommy\u2019s hand to help her lie down.<\/span><\/p>\n

She put the wet rag on Jessica\u2019s forehead and whispered, \u201cNow try to sleep.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica smiled at her daughter\u2019s caring.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian left the room and closed the door quietly.\u00a0 <\/span>She heard Emily ask Jillian if their mother was in the room, but Jillian told Emily she had to leave their mother alone because her head hurt and she wanted her to feel better so she could play Barbies with her later.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily went back to her bedroom, and Jillian returned to hers and played with her Barbies alone.<\/span><\/p>\n

A few hours passed and Adam finally returned home.\u00a0 <\/span>He came into the bedroom he shared with Jessica and found her sleeping quietly on the bed with a rag on her forehead.\u00a0 <\/span>He walked over and sat down beside her.\u00a0 <\/span>The movement on the bed woke Jessica from her light sleep.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam rubbed her arm, bent down and dropped a kiss on her cheek.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica\u2019s demeanor had not thawed much to Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry for earlier,\u201d Adam started.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI\u2019m sorry for being cavalier regarding the phone call with Rebecca.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sorry for trying to drag you in the middle of the argument with Emily, too.\u00a0 <\/span>I wasn\u2019t thinking, and I wasn\u2019t protecting you as my wife, I\u2019m sorry.\u00a0 <\/span>Will you forgive me?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica relaxed, and she smiled at her husband.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI\u2019m sorry for how I reacted as well.\u00a0 <\/span>My hormones are all over the place right now.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t know what\u2019s wrong with me.\u00a0 <\/span>After all these years, you would think your lady doctor friend wouldn\u2019t have this effect on me still, but…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s face grew with panic.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cOh, god, you don\u2019t think you\u2019re pregnant again do you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica laughed, but quickly put her husband\u2019s mind at ease.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cNo, I\u2019m sure I\u2019m not.\u00a0 <\/span>However, my period is all over the place!\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll have it for a few days, it will stop, then a few weeks later, it comes back with a vengeance.\u00a0 <\/span>I’m so irregular now; I never know when to expect a visit from mother nature anymore.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou need to make an appointment with Dr. McIntyre to see what\u2019s going on.\u00a0 <\/span>It doesn\u2019t sound right.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, it\u2019s not normal, and it\u2019s driving me crazy!\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll call Dr. McIntyre\u2019s office on Monday and make an appointment.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet me know when it is, Babe.\u00a0 <\/span>I want to go with you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica smiled at her husband.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cThanks, Honey.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Feeling better, she sat up and leaned over to Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHold me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam put his arms around his wife and Jessica placed her head on Adam\u2019s chest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou need to talk to Jillian.\u00a0 <\/span>She heard you and Emily arguing earlier, and you two scared her.\u00a0 <\/span>She came to me crying.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll go and talk to her in a few minutes when I know you\u2019re feeling better,\u201d Adam continued to hold Jessica.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica broke their embrace.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI\u2019m okay, Babe, please talk to Jillian.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s very upset.\u00a0 <\/span>She could probably use a reassuring kiss and hug from her daddy right now.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t you come with me; are you feeling up to it?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, I\u2019m feeling better.\u00a0 <\/span>I told her I would play Barbies with her when my headache was gone.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam got up and put out his hand to help Jessica up.\u00a0 <\/span>When she got up, Adam took her into his arms and again, apologized for earlier. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI want to talk to you about the phone call with Rebecca later, okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, you don\u2019t have to tell me what you two talked about, I just felt sorry for myself.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s hormonal.\u00a0 <\/span>I promise you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI had planned to talk to you about it all along.\u00a0 <\/span>When you went off on the tangent you did, I flashed back to when we were divorced, and I reacted.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sorry.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Babe.\u00a0 <\/span>Let\u2019s go and talk to Jillian.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Jessica walked out of their room and around the corner to Jillian\u2019s room.\u00a0 <\/span>They knocked and opened the door where they found their daughter scooting along the floor as she was moving Barbie and her friends in Barbie\u2019s car around her room.\u00a0 <\/span>When she saw her father, she stopped and looked up at him without saying a word.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam went and sat on Jillian\u2019s bed.\u00a0 <\/span>He invited his daughter to sit on his lap.\u00a0 <\/span>At first, she hesitated, but when Jessica gave her the approval sign, she walked over and sat with her daddy.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam put his finger under her chin and lifted her face to look at his.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSweetpea, Mommy said Emily and I scared you earlier when we were having an argument. I\u2019m sorry you overheard our yelling at each other.\u00a0 <\/span>Daddy didn\u2019t handle things well, and I\u2019m sorry I scared you.\u00a0 <\/span>I love you.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll always love you no matter what, okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian\u2019s small voice asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Sweetpea, what is it?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you love Emily still?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, I do, Sweetpea.\u00a0 <\/span>Why would you ask that?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBecause I heard Emily say she hated you,\u201d Jillian\u2019s lip stuck out in a pout.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Honey, Emily didn\u2019t mean she hated Daddy,\u201d Jessica interjected, \u201cshe was upset with Daddy because he won\u2019t allow her to do something she wants to do.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou see, Sweetpea, Mommy, and Daddy, has to set rules which we have you follow because we love you and want to protect you until you\u2019re old enough to make decisions of your own.\u00a0 <\/span>You won\u2019t always like them, but we make those tough decisions because we love you, and we want to protect you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLike when I wanted to go to Diana\u2019s house the other day, and you said I couldn\u2019t because her babysitter was there and not her Mommy or Daddy?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cExactly, Sweetpea. You remember you cried because you wanted to go and I wouldn\u2019t let you.\u00a0 <\/span>It wasn\u2019t I didn\u2019t want you to play with Diana; it\u2019s because her Mommy and Daddy weren\u2019t home.\u00a0 <\/span>We know Diana\u2019s Mommy and Daddy.\u00a0 <\/span>We don\u2019t know her babysitter, though.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, Daddy.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian smiled, \u201cDo you want to play Barbies with Mommy and me?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cNot right now, Sweetpea.\u00a0 <\/span>I need to talk to Emily, but Mommy said she’s going to play Barbies with you for a little bit.\u00a0 <\/span>Okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian smiled from ear to ear.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHere, Mommy, you can be Barbie\u2019s best friend, Midge.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica and Jillian began to play, and Adam walked over to Emily\u2019s room and knocked on her door.\u00a0 <\/span>She came to the door, and when she saw Adam, her face became tense.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMay I come in?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked calmly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily opened her door and gestured Adam to enter, but didn\u2019t say a word. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam walked in and leaned against the wall. Emily shut her door and stood against it, folded her arms around her waist and glared at Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>She was still angry at him for ruining her love life by not allowing her to go to the prom with Trey Hollingsworth, the most popular boy in school.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou need to apologize to your sister.\u00a0 <\/span>The tantrum you threw in the kitchen today scared her.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll talk to her.\u00a0 <\/span>Anything else?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily\u2019s voice was cold and unloving toward her hero.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily, I\u2019m not going to apologize for being a father who cares what happens to his child.\u00a0 <\/span>You mean the world to me and I will do what I think is best for you.\u00a0 <\/span>Not allowing you to go on any date until you\u2019re sixteen, no matter how innocent it is, is what I feel is the right thing to do.\u00a0 <\/span>One day, you\u2019ll understand, believe me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy, Mommy, didn\u2019t have a problem with it, why do you?\u00a0 <\/span>No matter how hard you try to keep me your little girl, I\u2019m growing up and one day, you\u2019re going to have to let me go,\u201d Emily started to cry.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam went over to Emily and put his hands on her shoulders, but she pulled away.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cYou\u2019re not there yet, Princess.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re only fifteen.\u00a0 <\/span>If I allowed you to go out with a boy, even on a group date, what would you do if he tried to get fresh with you?\u00a0 <\/span>What would you do if he tried to take your clothes off and force himself on you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily got scared at the thought of any boy violating her.\u00a0 <\/span>She was only thirteen when the stalker had grabbed her, but Adam and Jessica shielded her from the real motive of what his true intentions were for her if he had succeeded in his abduction.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPrincess, the truth is, you\u2019re still too young to know how to handle yourself in a dangerous situation.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know karate, Daddy,\u201d Emily tried to reason with Adam in the hope he would soften his resolve.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s all good and well, Princess, but what if a boy I let you go out with slipped something in your soda and it knocked you out?\u00a0 <\/span>You wouldn\u2019t be able to fight back then.\u00a0 <\/span>These are the things Mommy and I worry about with you.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re a beautiful girl and somewhat high profile because I\u2019m CEO of a large corporation in Reno.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re a cheerleader at the high school, and because of all of this, I have to be a bit more discerning whom I allow you to see, but it will not be until you are at least sixteen before you can date anyone, is that clear?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut, Daddy!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily pleaded again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily, what did I just say?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy, please!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily sobbed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not going down this road again, Emily.\u00a0 <\/span>My answer is still no, and it’s final.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t want to discuss this anymore.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily threw herself on her bed and cried.\u00a0 <\/span>She said things through sobs into her pillow, but they were incoherent.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam stood for a moment and watched her tantrum.\u00a0 <\/span>His heart was breaking, watching his princess fall apart, but his mind was made up. <\/span><\/p>\n

He went and sat down on her bed and touched her shoulder, but she slapped his hand away and told him to leave; she didn\u2019t want to have anything to do with him.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s heart broke as he saw his daughter dismiss him when she was hurting so badly.\u00a0 <\/span>He wanted to hold her, protect her, and tell her it was going to be okay.\u00a0 <\/span>His mind was made up, and he was not changing it no matter how many tears flowed from his daughter\u2019s eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

As evening began to fall, Jessica was putting the final touches on dinner.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam helped her by setting the table, and she asked him to get the girls so they could sit down to dinner.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam stopped by Jillian\u2019s room first, and his daughter came hopping out of her room.\u00a0 <\/span>As she skipped down the hall, Adam called her back.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJillian Alexis,\u201d his tone was stern.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian stopped and slowly turned around and answered timidly, \u201cYes, Daddy?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBe sure to wash your hands, and after dinner, before your bath, I want you to pick up your room. It\u2019s a mess!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI will, I promise,\u201d Jillian smiled at her father.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam winked and turned to knock on Emily\u2019s door, but there was no answer.\u00a0 <\/span>He knocked again and still she did not respond.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam opened the door and peeked in.\u00a0 <\/span>He saw Emily on her bed sound asleep in just a t-shirt and panties.\u00a0 <\/span>The evening brought a slight chill to the house, so Adam went in and covered her legs with a blanket sitting on the edge of her bed.\u00a0 <\/span>When he covered her up and dropped a kiss on her hair, she stirred a bit but did not wake up.\u00a0 <\/span>He got up, turned out her light and closed the door quietly, allowing her to sleep instead of eating dinner.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam, Jessica, and Jillian ate dinner and Jillian talked more than she ate.\u00a0 <\/span>Once they were done eating, Adam offered to do the dishes so Jessica could get Jillian\u2019s bath started and her hair washed for church the next morning.<\/span><\/p>\n

While Jessica was washing Jillian\u2019s hair, Emily woke up and came into the bathroom to brush her teeth before returning to bed.\u00a0 <\/span>She complained she was not feeling well and thought she might be running a fever.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica told her to go to her room, get the thermometer from her bathroom, bring it to her room and Jessica would be in to take her temperature after finishing washing Jillian\u2019s hair.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily walked to Adam\u2019s and Jessica\u2019s room where she saw the door open and the light on.\u00a0 <\/span>She walked in and saw Adam putting away some of his and Jessica\u2019s clothes he had taken out of the dryer.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat can I do for you, Princess?\u201d Adam asked as she stood in the doorway.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t feel good.\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy told me to get the thermometer so she could take my temperature.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSit down, Princess.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll get it and take it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily sat down on Jessica and Adam\u2019s bed while he went to the bathroom to get the thermometer.\u00a0 <\/span>He returned and put the probe into her mouth and placed his hand on her head; he noticed she felt quite warm. <\/span><\/p>\n

The flu season was ending, kids in school were still coming down with the illness, and it seemed Emily was its latest victim. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam rubbed his daughter\u2019s arm while the thermometer registered her temperature.\u00a0 <\/span>When the probe beeped, it registered 101.2.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou do have a fever, Princess.\u00a0 <\/span>Go back to bed, and I\u2019ll bring you some Tylenol and water in just a minute.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam helped his daughter stand up, and she walked back into her room.\u00a0 <\/span>She was shivering and got under her comforter, blankets, and sheets trying to stay warm. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam came in a few minutes later with a couple of Tylenol tablets and a glass of water.\u00a0 <\/span>He stroked Emily\u2019s wet hair after she took the two pills.\u00a0 <\/span>She laid back down, closed her eyes and didn\u2019t say a word. Adam dropped a kiss on her forehead and continued to sit for a few more moments and then got up and headed for the door.\u00a0 <\/span>He turned off the light to Emily\u2019s room, and she turned over and drifted back to sleep without saying goodnight.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam closed the door behind him and went back to putting the clothes away in the bedroom he shared with his wife.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once Jessica finished helping Jillian pick up the toys off the floor, she tucked her daughter in for the night, dropped a kiss on her head and turned out the light. <\/span><\/p>\n

She headed back to the bedroom where Adam was putting the last of both their T-shirts and knit shirts in the drawer. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019s Emily?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked as she sat on the bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI gave her the Tylenol.\u00a0 <\/span>She took it and closed her eyes.\u00a0 S<\/span>he rolled over and went back to sleep without as much as a hug or goodnight.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s still upset with me, I guess.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t understand your hesitation on letting her go to the prom, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s not like they\u2019re going on a date.\u00a0 <\/span>There\u2019s going to be several couples going.\u00a0 <\/span>The boy who invited her said he and his friends were all chipping in to hire a limo.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica got up from the bed and went to her husband.\u00a0 <\/span>She put her arms around his waist and said, \u201cYou have to start letting go of her, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019ll always be your little girl, but she\u2019s growing up, and you have to let her spread her wings and fly.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s only fifteen, Jess.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m not ready to let her go just yet.\u00a0 <\/span>I plan to hold true to my word; when she\u2019s sixteen, she\u2019ll be allowed to date, but I\u2019ll insist we meet the boy first before she\u2019s allowed to go out with him,\u201d Adam said as he pulled Jessica\u2019s blouse from her jeans. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI agree with you, but you have to start letting her spread her wings now, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s begging to fly.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe didn\u2019t allow Jason to start dating until he was sixteen and the same will hold true for Emily and Jillian.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam pulled away and grabbed the folded towels on the bed, and he took them into the bathroom. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, you can\u2019t compare the two of them.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason is grounded and reserved.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily is a social butterfly.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian and Jason are more like you, but Emily is like me.\u00a0 <\/span>Probably why she\u2019s your favorite child,\u201d Jessica winked at her husband.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked at Jessica with a furrowed brow, \u201cI love all of our children equally, Jessica.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Adam, you know Emily holds an extra special soft spot in your heart.\u00a0 <\/span>She always has.\u00a0 <\/span>Quit trying to deny it.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica came behind her husband who again turned his attention to putting up the towels, and put her arms around him and started to rub his chest over his shirt.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam turned around in his wife\u2019s arms and kissed her nose as he replied to her accusation of having a favorite child.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJust like Jason and Jillian hold a soft spot in your heart because they are a lot like me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI won\u2019t deny your statement unlike someone I know,\u201d Jessica winked. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica started to undress as she prepared to take a shower.<\/span><\/p>\n

She asked Adam what he wanted to talk to her regarding the phone call with Rebecca.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll get the bed turned down while you take a shower and tell you about it after you finish.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica didn\u2019t ask any more questions and took her shower. When she got out, she put one of the clean towels Adam had left out for her on her head and the other she wrapped around her body and headed into the bedroom where Adam had stripped to his boxers and was getting into bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica went to the chest of drawers to get one of her silk pajama sets from the drawer to put on when she again asked Adam about the encounter with Rebecca on the phone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRebecca and her husband are coming to a medical conference next month, and she wanted to get together, thus the reason for her call.\u00a0 <\/span>She and her husband, Dave, want to have dinner with us one night.\u00a0 <\/span>I accepted for both of us as our guest.\u00a0 <\/span>I also invited them to come by the house first to have drinks before we go to dinner.\u00a0 <\/span>I would love for them to meet the girls.\u00a0 <\/span>Rebecca is also a mother now; she has twin girls.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica sat quiet and stared at Adam in disbelief as she took her hair down from the towel and was patting it dry. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy, Adam?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica sounded exasperated. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy what, Jess?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam looked at her with a bit of surprise at her reaction.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour lady doctor friend is not a friend of mine.\u00a0 <\/span>Why would you even pretend to think I would want to have anything to do with her, much less have her in my home, and then go to dinner with her?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam leaned over and started to undo Jessica\u2019s towel around her chest. \u201cCome on, Babe.\u00a0 <\/span>She has a name; it\u2019s Rebecca.\u00a0 <\/span>Besides, we\u2019re just friends.\u00a0 <\/span>If you gave her half a chance, you would see she’s a lovely person.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica slapped Adam\u2019s hands away and tucked the towel back into place and held her pajamas in her lap and her body language became tense, and her voice annoyed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam sighed deeply.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cLook, she’s a very dear friend.\u00a0 <\/span>I want to have dinner with her, meet her husband, and catch up with each other\u2019s lives over the last ten years.\u00a0 <\/span>Why can\u2019t you support me as my spouse?\u00a0 <\/span>Her husband wants to meet us.\u00a0 <\/span>Why can\u2019t you be mature about this, Jessica?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHere we go with the maturity factor again,\u201d Jessica said as she dropped her towel and put on the pants to her pajama set.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI\u2019m sorry if I don\u2019t want to have anything to do with a woman who almost caused us not to get back together.\u00a0 <\/span>If you want to catch up with each other\u2019s lives, you can tell her, \u2018I\u2019ve moved on, I\u2019m married, and have another kid.\u2019\u00a0 <\/span>It takes all but half a minute,\u201d Jessica said as she grabbed her two towels, took them into the bathroom and hung them to dry before putting them into the dirty linen basket.\u00a0 <\/span>She came back into the bedroom and picked up her top to put it on.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam grabbed the top from her hand, and pulled her down to the bed and kissed her tenderly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t you see\u00a0 <\/span>I only want you?\u00a0 <\/span>Rebecca means nothing to me anymore.\u00a0 <\/span>She is a friend, nothing more, nothing less.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGive me my pajama top, Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u00a0 <\/span>Can\u2019t fight half naked?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t want to fight with you about this woman, Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know why you can\u2019t support me where she\u2019s concerned,\u201d Adam still held Jessica\u2019s top, and he laid down in bed.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI could say the same thing you’re saying in regards to her husband, but I\u2019m not jealous because I love you, and I want only you!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>He said as he hid her top.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica\u2019s resolve was melting as she could tell Adam was being playful at her expense. She went to grab her top and found he hid it down by his boxers. <\/span><\/p>\n

When she went to grab it, Adam grabbed her hands and placed her hand on his hard member and said, \u201cThis is what you do to me.\u00a0 <\/span>You excite me, even after 20+ years.\u00a0 <\/span>I want you, and only you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t play fair, Adam Cartwright.\u00a0 <\/span>How can you think of having sex when we\u2019re talking about your ex-lover?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica quickly reached down by Adam\u2019s boxers and grabbed her top.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam grabbed the top back and responded, \u201cBecause your bare breasts are turning me on for starters.\u00a0 <\/span>Second, Rebecca was never my lover.\u00a0 <\/span>We barely started seeing each other exclusively when we broke up; sex was never part of our relationship.\u00a0 <\/span>Moreover, I\u2019m not thinking about having sex with my wife; I want to make love to my wife.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou two never?…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam grabbed Jessica and laid her down on the bed and kissed her lips tenderly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNever.\u00a0 <\/span>Now, I don\u2019t want to talk any more about her; I only want to think about loving and satisfying you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica pulled her husband down on top of her and the two satisfied each other for the next several hours.<\/span><\/p>\n

Chapter Six<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

A few weeks passed since Adam and Emily had their blow up about Emily wanting to go to the prom with Tray Hollingsworth, the most popular boy in school.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily broke the news to Trey about her father not allowing her to go to the prom since she was not sixteen yet, thus not allowed to date. <\/span><\/p>\n

With Emily and Adam\u2019s relationship still strained, she tried to avoid her father as much as she could, but she had to face him at places like the dinner table and family functions.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam would try to get his daughter to spend time with him and mend their relationship, but Emily\u2019s stubborn streak kept the two at odds.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam refused to budge on his decision not to allow Emily to attend the prom with Trey, even if it meant his relationship with her would heal in time.\u00a0 <\/span>He knew she couldn\u2019t stay angry with him indefinitely. <\/span><\/p>\n

Emily and Trey became great friends and spent time together during their lunch hour as well as before and after school.\u00a0 <\/span>Since Adam would not let them see each other outside of school, Emily found ways to have a relationship with Trey at school only. <\/span><\/p>\n

Because Trey wanted to get to know Emily better, he devised a plan he thought her father would maybe approve of.\u00a0 <\/span>During lunch, he talked to Emily about his plan and asked what her thoughts were.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo, I was thinking.\u00a0 <\/span>Since your father won\u2019t allow us to date until your sixteen, maybe he might allow me to come to your house, and we could spend time together there?\u00a0 <\/span>Your parents will be home, and we can watch TV, a movie, study, or just spend time together.\u00a0 <\/span>What do you think?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily kissed and hugged Trey.\u00a0 <\/span>She loved the idea and said she would talk to her mother about it when she got home from school.<\/span><\/p>\n

When Emily arrived home, she found Jessica in the office paying bills.\u00a0 <\/span>Her mother was concentrating on the computer when Emily walked in.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy?\u00a0 <\/span>Are you busy?\u00a0 <\/span>Can I talk to you about something?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily asked as she came and sat in the leather wingback chair across from the desk.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure, Sweetheart, what\u2019s up?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked as she concentrated on the spreadsheet on her computer.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy!\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re not even paying attention to me!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily complained.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica stopped what she was doing, took off her reading glasses, apologized and gave Emily her undivided attention. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Sweetheart.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m listening, now.\u00a0 <\/span>What did you want to talk to me about?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

When Emily realized she had her mother\u2019s attention, her face lit up, and she got excited as she explained Trey\u2019s idea.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo, Trey and I were talking at lunch today, Mommy.\u00a0 <\/span>He wants to spend time with me.\u00a0 <\/span>He totally understands Daddy\u2019s reasons for not allowing me to go to the prom.\u00a0 <\/span>I mean, I don\u2019t get it, but whatever.\u00a0 <\/span>Anyway, Trey thought maybe you and Daddy might allow him to come to our house when you two are home, and we could sit in the family room and watch a movie or TV, or we can sit in the living room and talk, play games, or read together.\u00a0 <\/span>We won\u2019t be dating, but we could still spend time together away from school.\u00a0 <\/span>You and Daddy will be home so we won\u2019t be alone.\u00a0 <\/span>Do you think Daddy would be okay with this arrangement?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSweetheart, I don\u2019t know.\u00a0 <\/span>The best way to find out is to talk to Daddy about it tonight when he gets home from work.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy!\u00a0 <\/span>Why?\u00a0 <\/span>Please speak to him for me!\u00a0 <\/span>If I ask him, he\u2019ll tell me no!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily cried.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica got up and went over to her daughter and put her arm around her. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSweetheart, you need to apologize to your father for the way you spoke to him a few weeks ago. You hurt him deeply when you said you hated him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t mean it, Mommy,\u201d Emily rolled her eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt doesn\u2019t matter if you meant it or not, Emily Elizabeth,\u201d Jessica stood up and crossed her arms across her waist.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHow you spoke to Daddy was inexcusable, and you need to apologize.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve stayed out of it because it\u2019s between the two of you, but with you asking me to interfere again for you, I won\u2019t do it.\u00a0 <\/span>If you want to know if Daddy will accept Trey\u2019s new idea, you\u2019ll have to swallow your pride and talk to him yourself.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica went back to the desk, put her glasses back on and returned her attention back to the computer.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily let out a loud exacerbated sigh, stormed out of the office and went into her room slamming the door.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica started to get up and have words with her daughter about her recent behavior, but she figured it was just a teenage stage she was going through and let it pass.\u00a0 <\/span>She didn\u2019t want to start a war with her and have Emily angry at both her and Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>She feared if she stopped talking to both of them, she might end up doing things behind their backs and get in trouble or put herself in danger.<\/span><\/p>\n

The hour was going on 7:30 P.M. and Adam was still not home from work.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica had dinner finished and with no word from Adam, she decided to set the table for her and the girls and would leave Adam\u2019s plate in the oven.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica was not happy with her husband for not at least calling to say he would be late, but she was not going to call and nag him on where he was.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam always came home at a decent hour or called when he would be late, but this time, she didn\u2019t know why he hadn\u2019t called.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian was in her room studying her week\u2019s spelling words when Jessica peeked her head in to let her know it was time for dinner.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, I have my spelling words almost complete!\u00a0 <\/span>I have some hard ones this week, but I\u2019ve even got those almost memorized.\u00a0 <\/span>I need help with math.\u00a0 <\/span>Can you help me?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Baby Girl, math is Daddy\u2019s area of expertise.\u00a0 <\/span>When he get\u2019s home he\u2019ll be able to help you.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily would be better than me, but math isn\u2019t her strong point either.\u00a0 <\/span>Too bad Jason\u2019s not here.\u00a0 <\/span>Daddy and Jason are the math wiz\u2019s around here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, Mommy,\u201d Jillian said with a sigh.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI wished Daddy didn\u2019t work so late all the time.\u00a0 <\/span>I miss him,\u201d she said with a pout.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMe too!\u00a0 <\/span>Baby Girl, me too,\u201d Jessica let out a sad sigh.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome on, let’s wash your hands, I\u2019ve got dinner on the table.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian went skipping out of her room into the kitchen to wash her hands before dinner. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica walked over to Emily\u2019s room, knocked on the door, and opened it a little.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica saw her daughter lying on her bed in just her princess t-shirt and panties studying for a test she had the next day.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome on, Sweetheart, time for dinner.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily looked up at her mother and said, \u201cOkay, be there in a minute.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica walked out of Emily\u2019s room and back to the kitchen where she saw Adam leaning on the counter with his suit jacket and briefcase in his hands.\u00a0 <\/span>His tie was loose around his neck, and the top two buttons unbuttoned.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian was washing her hands and telling Adam about her spelling words and was asking for help with math.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica walked over to the cabinet to get another plate for Adam at the table, but didn\u2019t acknowledge his being home; she only gave him a stern glare when he looked up at her while talking to Jillian.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Jessica was getting utensils from the drawer for Adam when he came over to her and put his arms around her waist, kissed her on the side of her head and whispered in her ear, \u201cSorry I\u2019m late.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll explain after dinner.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica didn\u2019t respond and wriggled out of Adam\u2019s hold.\u00a0 <\/span>As she was walking to the dinner table, she said, \u201cGet washed up, dinner\u2019s ready.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam headed to the office to drop off his briefcase and then to their bedroom and hung up his suit jacket and tie.\u00a0 <\/span>He changed into a t-shirt and sweatpants as the spring evenings were still a bit chilly and came to sit at the table with his three beautiful girls in his life.<\/span><\/p>\n

After the blessing, Adam began to carve the whole chicken Jessica had roasted as she dished out fresh carrots and asparagus for Jillian.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily served herself a spoon of rice pilaf and pearl onions which had been cooked with the chicken.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLooks good, Mommy,\u201d Emily said as she waited for her to pass the carrots and asparagus her way.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Sweetheart,\u201d Jessica smiled at her daughter.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam put a small leg on Jillian\u2019s plate, and Jessica cut it up for her daughter so she could eat it without the bone getting in her way.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPrincess, what piece would you like?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked looking over at Emily.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll have a leg and thigh, please,\u201d she said not making any eye contact with her father.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam let out a quiet sigh.\u00a0 <\/span>The feud between him and his daughter had continued for about two weeks.\u00a0 <\/span>He tried to break through the stubbornness of his middle child, but she was just like her mother, he knew she would come around in her own time.\u00a0 <\/span>He placed the chicken on her plate and did not receive a thank you in return. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian was the first to break the silence looming over the table, \u201cMommy, can I have something to drink, please?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure, Baby Girl, what would you like?\u00a0 <\/span>Lemonade or water?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked as she got up from the table.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian squinted her eyes and looked up to the ceiling and put her finger on her mouth as if the decision was a tough one for her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think tonight I\u2019ll have LEMONADE!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>she said with exuberance in her voice as she grinned and bounced in her seat.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica laughed and ruffled her hair.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cYou\u2019re a silly goose,\u201d and she went to get a glass and the pitcher of lemonade from the fridge. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily, you want some lemonade, too, Sweetheart?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure, Mommy, thank you,\u201d she said as she cut her chicken off the bone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, wine?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica\u2019s voice was a bit annoyed as she spoke to her husband.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSounds good, but I\u2019ll get it,\u201d he said as he got up from his chair and headed into the kitchen.<\/span><\/p>\n

As he walked by Jessica, he said to her under his breath. \u201cI said I was sorry for being late.\u00a0 <\/span>Cut me some slack will ya?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica glared at him without saying a word, and Adam took the opportunity and kissed her on her lips and smiled. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you think a cute kiss is going to make it all better, Adam?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked without any expression on her face or in her voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, but I apologized and told you I would explain later.\u00a0 <\/span>Can you give me the benefit of the doubt, so we can have a pleasant dinner with our girls?\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s hard enough having one female in the family angry and not speaking to me.\u00a0 <\/span>I really don\u2019t want my wife not talking to me, too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s been a long day, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m tired and not feeling well.\u00a0 <\/span>I just want to eat dinner, get the dishes done, and go to bed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam put his hand on Jessica\u2019s forehead and noticed she felt a bit warm.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cDo you think you\u2019re coming down with the flu like Emily had a few weeks ago?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, it\u2019s probably just allergies.\u00a0 <\/span>I have my appointment with Dr. McIntyre tomorrow at 11:00 A.M., so I\u2019ll have him give me a new prescription for my allergy pills while I\u2019m there.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam let out a heavy sigh and closed his eyes because he forgot about the appointment.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica looked at him with disappointment because she looked forward to him coming with her to find out why she was having such wild mood swings and an irregular period.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou forgot, didn\u2019t you?!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica\u2019s voice raised a little.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll have Heather make changes to my calendar in the morning, I\u2019ll be there.\u00a0 <\/span>Don\u2019t worry.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica grabbed two glasses from the cabinet and poured the lemonade for her girls and went back to the table and sat down. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam opened the Pino Grigio, poured Jessica and himself a glass in their crystal wine glasses.\u00a0 <\/span>He sat Jessica\u2019s down at the top of her plate, and she thanked him as he sat down at the other end of the table.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy, can you help me with my math tonight, please?\u00a0 <\/span>I just don\u2019t understand how to turn fractions into decimals at all,\u201d Jillian moaned. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, Sweetpea.\u00a0 <\/span>When we finish dinner I\u2019ll help Mommy with the dishes, then I\u2019ll come and help you, okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian grinned at her daddy and said, \u201cThank you!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re welcome, now finish your chicken.\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy outdid herself on dinner again didn\u2019t she?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s delicious!\u201d she said as she ate a piece of her favorite vegetable, carrots.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI received an email from Rebecca today, Jess.\u00a0 <\/span>She and Dave will arrive into Reno tomorrow.\u00a0 <\/span>I had Heather make reservations at Adel\u2019s for 8:00 P.M. Friday night.\u00a0 <\/span>They\u2019re going to be here around 6:30 P.M..\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI guess another Friday night of just me and you, Peanut,\u201d Emily sighed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe can play Sorry!<\/i><\/b>, Emmy, and I can beat you!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian grinned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot if I beat you first, little girl,\u201d she crinkled her nose teasingly at her baby sister.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica laughed at the banter between her two girls.\u00a0 <\/span>She felt so blessed all of her children got along fairly well.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica understood the jealousy between Emily and Jason because she remembered all too well having the same problems with her older brother when they were growing up.\u00a0 <\/span>She knew it would start happening for Jillian with Emily in three or four years, and she was bracing herself for round two.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, I have information for summer cheerleading camp in my backpack. I need to get the form filled out and a check back to Miss Dalton by Thursday, okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about your new uniforms for next year?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked as she cut up her chicken breast.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Dalton gave us the order form for those, too, Mommy.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll have a practice outfit, game day outfit, summer outfit, winter outfit, sweat suit, pompoms, and next year, she wants to get some shirts to wear with our skirts for the pep rallies.\u00a0 <\/span>I need new shoes and leggings as well.\u00a0 <\/span>My other ones are almost worn out.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, get me both forms to fill out, and I\u2019ll write checks for both tonight and put them in your backpack so you\u2019ll have them tomorrow.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen is summer camp this year, Princess?\u201d Adam asked his daughter to get a dialogue started between them.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know.\u00a0 <\/span>Sometime in June or July, I think,\u201d Emily said without looking up at Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

Frustrated, he said with an annoyed tone, \u201cCan you please let me know?\u00a0 <\/span>I would like to plan our summer vacation around your summer school activities.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay!\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll let you know!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily\u2019s voice was tense.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan I be excused please?\u201d she asked looking at her mother.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica looked at Emily\u2019s plate, and she had eaten about three-quarters of the small portions she had dished out for herself. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, you may be excused, Sweetheart.\u00a0 <\/span>Put your plate on the counter in the kitchen, please.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily got up from her chair and took her plate and glass into the kitchen.\u00a0 <\/span>She set it on the counter and walked back to her room without even a glance at her father.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam shook his head and kept eating.<\/span><\/p>\n

When Jillian was finished, she announced with jubilance in her voice, \u201cJILLIAN\u2019S FULL!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica smiled at her daughter and said, \u201cYou finished everything!\u00a0 <\/span>You must have been hungry tonight.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian nodded her head up and down fast and said, \u201cUm hum.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTake your plate and glass into the kitchen, and go finish your homework.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As Jillian reached the kitchen, she was putting her plate on the counter when her glass slipped from her hand, it fell to the floor and shattered on the travertine.\u00a0 <\/span>Before Jessica could tell Jillian not to move or pick up any of the broken shards, Jillian bent down to pick up a piece, and it sliced the palm of her left hand open.\u00a0 <\/span>Blood began to pour out profusely, and she started to scream.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam flew out of his seat, picked up his daughter, grabbing a dish towel from the drawer on his way to the car. <\/span><\/p>\n

Emily came running from her room when she heard the scream.\u00a0 <\/span>When she saw the blood, she started to cry, too.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica ran back to her bedroom and grabbed Adam\u2019s wallet, keys, iPhone, her purse, and headed toward the garage.\u00a0 <\/span>He looked back at Emily and ordered her to stay away from the broken glass, and he would call her when they reached the hospital.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica grabbed a few more dish towels for Jillian to wrap around her hand so blood would not get in the car. or on her\u00a0 <\/span>Adam jumped into the driver\u2019s seat as Jessica finished getting their daughter strapped in. Jessica tossed the keys to Adam, and they were soon on their way to the emergency room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Mommy!\u201d Jillian said through her sobs.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBaby Girl, there\u2019s nothing to be sorry about!\u00a0 <\/span>It was an accident.\u00a0 <\/span>The doctor will get you all fixed up,\u201d Jessica tried to calm her daughter\u2019s fears.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t want a shot!\u201d she wailed. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJillian, they have to numb your hand if you need stitches. Otherwise, it will hurt a lot more than the shot will.\u00a0 <\/span>You can squeeze Mommy\u2019s hand, okay?\u201d Jessica responded in a loving tone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, Mommy.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian\u2019s cry began to calm down.<\/span><\/p>\n

As they reached the Emergency Room at Carson Tahoe Hospital, Adam dropped Jillian and Jessica off at the entrance while he went and found a parking spot in the garage.<\/span><\/p>\n

The emergency room had several patients waiting to be seen, most with flu-like symptoms.\u00a0 <\/span>Since the patients were seen based on their emergency, Jillian was able to be seen quickly. <\/span><\/p>\n

While Adam was giving the insurance information and data on Jillian, Jessica grabbed his iPhone and called Jason in Cambridge to let him know about his baby sister.\u00a0 <\/span>He stepped out to throw away the garbage so Brianna answered the phone when she saw, \u201cDad\u201d on the caller ID of the phone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHello?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Brie, it\u2019s Jessica, is Jason available?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna could tell Jessica\u2019s tone was anxious, and her happy voice turned to worry.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, Jessica, he\u2019s gone downstairs to take the garbage out.\u00a0 <\/span>Let me go take the phone to him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna ran out the door and down to the garbage bin at the end of the building. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJASON!\u201d she yelled holding the phone out.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cIt\u2019s your mother, it sounds urgent!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason ran back and met her half way.\u00a0 <\/span>He grabbed his iPhone and said, \u201cMom? is everything okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Honey, I was calling to let you know we\u2019re in the emergency room with Jillian.\u00a0 <\/span>She dropped a glass tonight and cut her hand open.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s bleeding badly, and she\u2019s probably going to need stitches.\u00a0 <\/span>You want to talk to her?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, Mom, let me talk to her.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason turned on the speaker phone so he and Brianna could speak to his baby sister.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, Peanut, Mommy said you cut your hand pretty bad huh?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian puffed out her bottom lip when she heard her older brother\u2019s voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t mean to, Jason, it slipped from my hand and broke!\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Peanut, it\u2019s okay.\u00a0 <\/span>I know it was an accident.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe doctors will get you all fixed up and feeling better again, Sweetie,\u201d Brianna said with a reassuring voice. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Brie,\u201d Jillian\u2019s tears started to fall again as she heard her brother\u2019s girlfriend\u2019s voice whom she adored so much.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Sweetie.\u00a0 <\/span>Be brave for the doctors, okay?\u00a0 <\/span>Jason and I will be home real soon.\u00a0 <\/span>I can\u2019t wait to see you!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMe, too!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI tell you what, Peanut, you be really brave for the doctors tonight, and when Brie and I come home, we\u2019ll take you to get an ice cream, okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Tears continued to run down Jillian\u2019s face.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian handed the phone back to Jessica. \u201cI\u2019ll call you tomorrow and let you know how everything went.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m afraid it will be too late tonight by the time we get finished.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Mom.\u00a0 <\/span>Brie and I told her to be strong, and we\u2019ll take her to get ice cream when we come home if she\u2019s good for the doctors tonight.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Honey, that\u2019s sweet of you.\u00a0 <\/span>Love you both.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll call you tomorrow.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Mom.\u00a0 <\/span>Love you, too.\u00a0 <\/span>We look forward to hearing from you, bye!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBye, Honey!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

About fifteen minutes elapsed between giving the admittance information for Jillian and the time she was called back by the triage nurse.\u00a0 <\/span>As they entered the triage area, the nurse took the blood soaked towels away so she could see the cut.\u00a0 <\/span>Blood was still coming out of the wound. She wrapped it back up in fresh sterile gauze and took Jillian\u2019s vitals, asked Jessica and Adam if she had any allergies and when her last tetanus shot was.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica answered all questions as Jillian rested her head on her mother\u2019s chest and she gently rocked her daughter back and forth. <\/span><\/p>\n

The triage nurse was ready to go back to an exam room so Adam picked Jillian up from Jessica\u2019s arms and the three followed the nurse to where she would be seen by an ER physician.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe doctor will be with you shortly,\u201d the nurse said as she walked toward the door.<\/span><\/p>\n

When the doctor arrived, she introduced herself as Dr. Tanya Baker and shook Adam\u2019s and Jessica\u2019s hand.\u00a0 <\/span>The doctor went over to Jillian and bent down to her level and said, \u201cI hear you have a nasty cut on your hand.\u00a0 <\/span>Can I see it?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica came over to her daughter\u2019s side and sat on the gurney with her while Dr. Baker looked at her hand.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI need to clean up the blood around the wound, but I\u2019ll be very gentle, okay?\u201d she said in a loving tone.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam was leaning on the wall with his hands crossed over his chest as he watched the young doctor work on his daughter.\u00a0 <\/span>He thought about Rebecca and how wonderful she was with Jason the time he broke his leg when he fell out of the swing at the park at eight years old.<\/span><\/p>\n

Dr. Baker was very gentle with Jillian\u2019s hand, and Jessica wrapped her arm around her daughter\u2019s shoulders to reassure her everything was going to be alright. <\/span><\/p>\n

Once Dr. Baker could see how deep the cut was, she knew she was going to need about six stitches. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ve been a big brave girl for me so far, and I\u2019m so proud of you!\u00a0 <\/span>I know your Mommy and Daddy are proud of you, too!\u00a0 <\/span>I need to put some stitches in your hand because it’s a nasty cut.\u00a0 <\/span>I need to numb your hand first.\u00a0 <\/span>Can you be really brave for me?\u00a0 <\/span>I have a treat for you if you can be really brave,\u201d Dr. Baker smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian sounded as if she was not to sure if she could keep her promise.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam couldn\u2019t watch Jillian getting a shot in her hand or stitches, so he motioned to Jessica he was going to go outside and call Emily.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica nodded, and Adam left the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

He walked outside and called Emily\u2019s cell. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019s Jillian?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily asked as she answered the phone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe has to have about six stitches.\u00a0 <\/span>They’re stitching her up now,\u201d Adam said with not much emotion in his voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe probably won\u2019t be much longer.\u00a0 <\/span>Do you have any homework you need help with from me?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked, hoping to get some sort of dialogue going again with his estranged daughter.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Daddy,\u201d Emily kept it short and sweet.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay,\u201d Adam\u2019s voice sounded tired and sad.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWe\u2019ll see you at home in a little bit.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam hesitated for a moment and said, \u201cI love you, Princess,\u201d hoping his daughter would say her usual response, \u2018Love you more, Daddy.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLove you, too,\u201d was Emily\u2019s response, and it was strained. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam hung up his phone and headed back into Emergency, and back to Jillian\u2019s room.\u00a0 <\/span>The doctor was putting the final stitch in to close up the wound.\u00a0 <\/span>She put some antibiotic ointment on the stitches to keep them moist so they would not dry out and rip open, and bandaged her hand. Dr. Baker wrote a prescription for antibiotics, a pain killer, and antibiotic cream to keep on the wound itself.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m a nurse, Doctor.\u00a0 <\/span>I used to work at this hospital, so I know how to care for the wound,\u201d Jessica informed the doctor.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou used to work here?\u00a0 <\/span>How long ago?\u201d the doctor smiled as she finished up the notes in Jillian\u2019s chart.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was about ten years ago now.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve kept up my credentials in case I ever decided to return to nursing.\u00a0 <\/span>I worked in the CCU here, but occasionally, I helped out here in the ER,\u201d Jessica said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNow I know why you handled this so well.\u00a0 <\/span>Most parents don\u2019t deal with things like this at all.\u00a0 <\/span>Makes sense now!\u201d Dr. Baker said. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, unlike, Daddy, here,\u201d Adam laughed.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI had to leave the room.\u00a0 <\/span>I couldn\u2019t take it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Dr. Baker turned to Adam and smiled. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry, Mr. Cartwright, you\u2019re not alone in the world.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve had other Daddy\u2019s pass out on me when they bring their child in with a bad cut or injury. When you\u2019re not exposed to it on a daily basis, or worse, when it\u2019s your own kid, it\u2019s hard!\u00a0 <\/span>Your reaction was perfectly normal, believe me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow long will she have the stitches in her hand, Doctor?\u201d Adam asked<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAbout a week to ten days.\u00a0 <\/span>You can call her pediatrician to make an appointment in about a week.\u00a0 <\/span>He or she can determine then if they\u2019re ready to come out.\u00a0 <\/span>Until then, make sure she completes the antibiotic I prescribed and keep the cream on the wound as well as keeping her hand bandaged and most importantly, dry.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Dr. Baker turned back to Jillian, smiled at her and said, \u201cI believe I promised you something if you were a good girl and you have been one of the best patients I\u2019ve ever had!\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll be right back!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Dr. Baker got up and left the room to get Jillian some prizes for being such a good patient.\u00a0 <\/span>She came back with a coloring book, colors, several pages of stickers, and a glitter pencil.\u00a0 <\/span>When Jillian saw the loot in the doctor\u2019s hands, her eyes lit up with excitement.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWow!\u00a0 <\/span>Thank you, Dr. Baker!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian grinned from ear to ear.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis is all for you for being so good tonight.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve got a little bag here we can put it all in.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Dr. Baker put all the prizes in the bag and handed to Jillian.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan I have a hug?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Dr. Baker asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian threw her arms around Dr. Baker\u2019s neck, and she hugged her back.<\/span><\/p>\n

Dr. Baker shook Jessica\u2019s and Adam\u2019s hand and told them the nurse would be in shortly with the discharge paperwork.\u00a0 <\/span>She turned back to Jillian and told her she enjoyed having her as a patient but hoped she wouldn\u2019t have to see her again in the ER for a very long time.<\/span><\/p>\n

Shortly after Dr. Baker left, the nurse came in with the prescriptions and discharge paperwork. Even though Jessica was a nurse, she knew it was standard procedure for the nurse to go over the doctor\u2019s orders and prescriptions with the parents of the minor patient.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam signed the paperwork the nurse had explained the procedure and the follow-up care, and they understood everything.\u00a0 <\/span>Dr. Baker\u2019s phone number to her service as well as the hospital\u2019s phone number was available in case there were any complications throughout the night. <\/span><\/p>\n

Upon their arrival home, Adam and Jessica were amazed Emily had cleaned up all the dishes from the table, put the leftovers away in the fridge, and the dishwasher was cycling.\u00a0 <\/span>She had swept up the glass into a pile but did not attempt to clean it up without help. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica went to Jillian’s room with her and helped her get ready for bed. She asked her if she needed a pain pill, but since her hand was still numb from the shot, she declined.\u00a0 <\/span>Wanting to get the antibiotics started right away, Jessica gave her daughter one of the pills before she went to bed. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome and get me if you wake up and you need a pain pill, okay, Baby Girl?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI will, Mommy.\u00a0 <\/span>I love you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, too,\u201d Jessica said as she dropped a kiss on her daughter\u2019s forehead.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam walked in after sweeping up the broken glass from the floor in time to give his daughter a good night kiss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSleep tight, Sweetpea. I love you,\u201d Adam said as he came and kissed his youngest daughter\u2019s forehead as well.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLove you, too, Daddy!\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian rolled over in bed and drifted off to sleep. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica headed back to the bedroom she shared with Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam said he would be there in just a few minutes.\u00a0 <\/span>He was going to stop off at Emily\u2019s room and thank her for cleaning up the dishes.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam knocked on Emily\u2019s door, but there was no response.\u00a0 <\/span>He peeked in and saw his daughter sleeping soundly with all of her covers pushed to the edge of her bed.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam smiled and watched her sleep, remembering when she was little and how she used to sleep half naked and her covers at the end of the bed.\u00a0 <\/span>He pulled the covers back over her sleeping form and dropped a kiss on her head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, my princess,\u201d he quietly said so he wouldn\u2019t wake her up.\u00a0 <\/span>He turned back around and walked out, closing her door behind him.<\/span><\/p>\n

When he came back to the bedroom he shared with Jessica, she had already turned down the bed and was undressing to get in the shower.\u00a0 <\/span>He came up behind her and wrapped his arms around her semi-naked form. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m really sorry about being so late tonight.\u00a0 <\/span>I was hung up on a call with a supplier for the timbering project we have going right now.\u00a0 <\/span>It took a lot longer than I thought it would, but the call couldn\u2019t wait.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou couldn\u2019t call when you got in the car to come home, Adam?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was tired, when I went to call, the battery on my phone had run down, and I didn\u2019t realize it.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m really sorry.\u00a0 <\/span>Please forgive me?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam said in a loving tone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJessica twisted around in her husband\u2019s arms.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cAlright, you\u2019re forgiven.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica\u2019s eyes widened as she remembered Jillian had math homework she needed Adam\u2019s help with.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh my goodness!\u00a0 <\/span>She never did her math homework!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll go take a look in her bag and see how much she has to do.\u00a0 <\/span>If it\u2019s not much, we can get up in the morning and do it.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam gave a quick kiss to Jessica\u2019s lips and left her to take a shower.\u00a0 <\/span>He walked into Jillian\u2019s room quietly and turned the lamp light on on her desk and started looking through her book bag to find her math book and worksheets.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian woke up despite Adam\u2019s attempts to be quiet.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhatcha doin’, Daddy?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian\u2019s sleepy voice asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWith your getting hurt tonight, we didn\u2019t do your math homework, so I wanted to see how much had to be done so I would know how early we needed to get up in the morning, Sweetpea.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian got out of bed and walked over to her desk and showed Adam what she needed help with.\u00a0 <\/span>She only had about five problems she needed assistance with; the rest she had been able to do on her own.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis won\u2019t take us long to do these.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll get you up about thirty minutes earlier in the morning, and we\u2019ll work on it then.\u00a0 <\/span>Now get back in bed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian got back in bed, and Adam covered her up again.\u00a0 <\/span>He dropped another kiss on her forehead, and she closed her eyes.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam shut off the lamp light, and he walked out, closing her door quietly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica was coming out of the bathroom with just a towel around her, and hair pulled up in a clip.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam went into the closet to take off his clothes and get ready for bed. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica went to the dresser to grab a nightgown.\u00a0 <\/span>She put it on and climbed into bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam came to bed and climbed in next to his wife, took the hair clip off and ran his fingers through her hair with one hand and held her in his other arm.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m really sorry about being so late tonight.\u00a0 <\/span>I promise to call from the office in the future.\u00a0 <\/span>I was tired and wanted to just get home to my family.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

I forgive you, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sorry for being so cranky about it.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve had a rough day, too, and I\u2019m tired,\u201d Jessica said as she closed her eyes.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cJust hold me.\u00a0 <\/span>I feel so loved and safe in your arms.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The music came on the Bose Wave Radio at 5:30 A.M.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam woke up and quickly shut off the music so it wouldn\u2019t wake Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>He looked over at her, and she was sleeping soundly.\u00a0 <\/span>A light smile was on her face. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe must be dreaming about something wonderful,\u201d Adam said to himself very quietly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam got up and took a hot shower.\u00a0 <\/span>He was only two days into a new week, and he had a lot going on.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam looked forward to the end of the week when he would see Rebecca again.\u00a0 <\/span>Even though the week was hectic, he had something to look forward to at week\u2019s end. <\/span><\/p>\n

After his shower, he trimmed his beard, put on a fresh pair of boxers and the sweatpants he’d worn the previous night, and he went to Jillian\u2019s room to wake her up so they could work on her math homework.<\/span><\/p>\n

Like her brother, she was easily awakened.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019s your hand today?\u00a0 <\/span>Do you need any pain pills?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked quietly as he stroked his daughter\u2019s hair.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I\u2019m fine, Daddy.\u00a0 <\/span>It hurts a little, but not too bad.\u00a0 <\/span>Can I stay home from school today?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Sweetpea.\u00a0 <\/span>Unless your hand starts hurting really badly, you need to go to school.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll send the pain medication with you to leave with the school nurse, so if the pain is too bad, you can go see her.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay,\u201d Jillian said with a pout.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNow let\u2019s get your book and go to the office and get those math problems done.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian got out of bed and grabbed her worksheets as well as her math book, and they went into Adam\u2019s and Jessica\u2019s office.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam sat down in the chair, and Jillian got onto his lap.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam was busy explaining the formula to Jillian on how to change a fraction to a decimal when Jessica came into the office and brought Adam some coffee.\u00a0 <\/span>He winked at his wife, and she smiled in return. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica knocked on Emily\u2019s door and woke her up for school.\u00a0 <\/span>She asked her where the forms were for her cheerleading camp and uniforms.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily pointed to her desk as she walked out of her room and to the bathroom to take a shower. <\/span><\/p>\n

When Jessica saw the cost for the camp, she didn\u2019t flinch, but when she saw the $5,000 cost of new uniforms, her eyes widened. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood grief!\u201d she said under her breath as she headed into the office to grab her checkbook to write out two checks; one for the camp and the other for new uniforms.<\/span><\/p>\n

Just as Jessica finished writing out both checks, Adam and Jillian finished the math homework, and Jillian was ready for her bath.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica helped bathe her daughter so she wouldn\u2019t get her hand wet.\u00a0 <\/span>She combed her hair and helped her get dressed for school.<\/span><\/p>\n

When Adam\u2019s three girls came into the kitchen, they saw he had breakfast almost ready.\u00a0 <\/span>He made bacon, eggs and had biscuits in the oven almost ready. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAwe, thank you, Babe!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said as she came and wrapped her arms around Adam\u2019s waist and rubbed her hands through his forest of salt and pepper chest hair. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam turned and whispered in his wife\u2019s ear, \u201cI love you, my sexy kitten,\u201d and kissed her on her cheek.<\/span><\/p>\n

The three girls sat down as Adam set their plates before them.\u00a0 <\/span>Each thanked Adam for the food, and after grace was said, they all dug into the morning meal. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy, I need to talk to you about something later tonight,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily said as she lightly buttered her biscuit. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked up in amazement.\u00a0 <\/span>He had not heard such a sweet tone from his daughter when addressing him in a few weeks.\u00a0 <\/span>He looked over at Jessica, and she smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure, Princess.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll try to be home earlier tonight than last night.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid you email Heather about changing your schedule for today, so you could go with me to the doctor?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI sent the email right after I finished helping Jillian with her homework.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, what\u2019s wrong with you?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily\u2019s voice had a hint of worry.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica smiled at her daughter and gave her a reassuring pat on her arm.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy\u2019s okay, Honey.\u00a0 <\/span>I think I\u2019m starting to go through the change of life, that\u2019s all.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s the change of life, Mommy?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian innocently asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou haven\u2019t gone through the first change of life, Jillian!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian looked at her mommy and sister with a befuddled look.\u00a0 <\/span>She then looked at Adam for the answers to her questions. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t look at me, Sweetpea, this is something you need to talk to Mommy and Emily about, but not at the breakfast table,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

As everyone finished breakfast, Adam went back to his and Jessica\u2019s bedroom and got dressed for work. <\/span><\/p>\n

Emily and Jillian grabbed their books and got into the SUV as both Adam and Jessica came out to get into their respective cars; Adam in his Porsche and Jessica in the Lexus. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam gave Jessica a kiss, and as she got in the SUV, Adam said, \u201cI\u2019ll be home about 10:30 A.M. to pick you up.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, I love you!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica took the girls to their schools, dropping Emily off first and then Jillian, so Jessica could go into the school to give the medication to the nurse and advise her about Jillian\u2019s hand injury.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once Jessica was back home, she put a kettle of water on to boil and collapsed at the breakfast table.\u00a0 <\/span>She’d been experiencing some cramping all morning and wondered if her monthly visit was rearing its ugly head for the second time in the same month.<\/span><\/p>\n

The kettle started to whistle, and she made a cup of tea and went to her\u2019s and Adam\u2019s room to make their bed.\u00a0 <\/span>After the bed was made, she jumped in the shower, got dressed and laid down for a few minutes but drifted off to sleep.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJess, wake up, Babe, it\u2019s time to go,\u201d Adam softly shook Jessica\u2019s shoulder.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica opened her eyes and saw Adam smiling down on her. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou ready to go?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As Jessica and Adam arrived at Dr. McIntyre\u2019s office, the room was filled with a few very pregnant women and Adam and Jessica smiled at each other as they remembered back to the days that the both of them made their monthly prenatal visits to Dr. McIntyre when Jessica was pregnant. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica and Adam loved babies but were now looking forward to grand-babies in their future. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJessica Cartwright,\u201d the nurse called from the door leading back to the exam rooms. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica and Adam got up and followed the nurse into the exam room.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam sat in the chair next to the table, and Jessica sat on the edge of the table as the nurse started the patient visit sheet. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI see you were here in November for your annual well woman exam, so what brings you in today, Jessica?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve been experiencing irregular cycles as well as crazy mood swings, and I think I might be in the beginnings of menopause.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI see.\u00a0 <\/span>Well, there\u2019s a couple of ways to find out.\u00a0 <\/span>Take everything off from the waist down.\u00a0 <\/span>I’ll come back and draw some blood and Dr. McIntyre will be in shortly afterward.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica took her jeans and panties off.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam could see the angst in his wife\u2019s face as she got back up on the table and placed the sheet over her lap.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam stood up next to his wife and put his arm around her. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhatever is causing all of this, Dr. McIntyre will get to the bottom of it today.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, Adam Cartwright.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, too, Jessica Cartwright.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica placed her head on Adam\u2019s chest, and they heard a knock on the door, it was the nurse coming to draw blood.\u00a0 <\/span>After she took Jessica\u2019s blood, she told her Dr. McIntyre was finishing up with a patient but she was next.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam sat back down in the chair near the exam table. <\/span><\/p>\n

There was a knock on the door and Dr. McIntyre entered the room.\u00a0 <\/span>He shook Adam\u2019s and Jessica\u2019s hand, opened Jessica\u2019s file, put his reading glasses on, and commented on the notes the nurse had written down.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s see, you were here for your annual well woman exam in November, and now you\u2019re experiencing irregular menstrual cycles and mood swings.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll love my husband to death and the next minute, I want to bite his head off for no reason whatsoever.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll start my period on time, it will be very light and stop a few days later and maybe a week or so after that, it comes back with a vengeance and might last for ten days.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow is intercourse?\u00a0 <\/span>Is it painful for you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, not really,\u201d Jessica said as she looked at Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

Dr. McIntyre asked a few other key questions which were also signs of pre-menopause.\u00a0 <\/span>He rang for his nurse and after completing a pelvic exam on Jessica, he told her she could get dressed.\u00a0 <\/span>He ordered stat results on the blood tests and told the nurse to have Jessica and Adam wait for him in his office while he saw a few other patients while the results were compiled. <\/span><\/p>\n

After about thirty minutes, Dr. McIntyre entered.\u00a0 <\/span>He sat at his desk while Adam and Jessica sat in the chairs across from his desk, holding hands.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI have the test results back, your hormone levels indicate you are in the beginning stages of menopause.\u00a0 <\/span>I can prescribe medication to help with the symptoms, but I don\u2019t really recommend them.\u00a0 <\/span>The best thing to do is eat a well-balanced diet and exercise to help.\u00a0 <\/span>As for the mood swings, I can give you a mild anti-depressant to help out if you want.\u00a0 <\/span>The drawback to antidepressants is it could affect your sex drive, so I suggest you and your husband talk about if the mood swings are severe enough to warrant going on medication to help you cope better.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Dr. McIntyre then closed Jessica\u2019s file, and his face drew long with concern.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica tensed up as she waited anxiously for what else the OB\/GYN she had been seeing for over twenty years and had brought all three of her children into the world had to say.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJessica, Adam, while I was performing the pelvic exam, I felt a mass on one of Jessica’s ovaries.\u00a0 <\/span>It could be nothing, but it could be something we need to concern ourselves with.\u00a0 <\/span>The mass is about the size of a chickpea.\u00a0 <\/span>It was not present at your annual in November, so the size it is today is a bit concerning to me.\u00a0 <\/span>It could be part of the irregularities you\u2019ve been experiencing as well.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica\u2019s eyes became misty as she asked the dreaded question she never wanted to have to ask, \u201cDo I have cancer?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI honestly don\u2019t know, Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>The only way we’ll be able to tell is a biopsy on the mass.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo you\u2019re saying surgery is indicated?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked with a furrowed brow.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u00a0 <\/span>What we\u2019ll do is remove the mass from the ovary.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll send it to the lab to see if it’s malignant or benign.\u00a0 <\/span>If it’s benign, we\u2019ll make sure there are no other masses, and the surgery will be over.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd if it is malignant?\u201d Jessica asked timidly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Dr. McIntyre sighed deeply.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll perform a total hysterectomy,\u00a0 <\/span>and check to see if cancer has spread.\u00a0 <\/span>When you sign the surgical agreement, you\u2019ll be agreeing to the hysterectomy at the same time of the biopsy if the tumor is malignant.\u00a0 <\/span>We would want to perform it while we already have you under general anesthetic.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh my gosh!\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m only forty-six!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJessica, ovarian cancer can affect a woman at any age.\u00a0 <\/span>The good news is if it is cancer, it seems we\u2019ve caught it early which is excellent for you.\u00a0 <\/span>If it’s a benign, we\u2019ll need to keep an eye on you every six months to make sure the tumors don\u2019t return.\u00a0 <\/span>We can perform a hysterectomy as a precaution, but I leave it up to you and your husband.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd if we decide to go this route if the tumor is benign?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI would want to leave the non-affected ovary for hormone reasons; so you\u2019re not thrown into immediate menopause.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica looked at Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>She saw her life flash before her eyes and for a moment, thought about leaving her husband a widower and her children motherless and never seeing her grandchildren, the thought brought profound sadness. <\/span><\/p>\n

Tears began to roll down her cheeks as she asked the all important question.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen do we do this?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe sooner, the better.\u00a0 <\/span>Not only so we\u2019ll know for sure, but if it is cancer, we get it out of there before it can do any more damage.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica looked at Adam again, and he gave her a reassuring look of love. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s got to be done, Babe,\u201d Adam said with concern and compassion in his voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica looked back at Dr. McIntyre and took a deep breath and said, \u201cOkay, Doc, let\u2019s do it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Dr. McIntyre got up from his desk and escorted Adam and Jessica to his surgical schedule clerk.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPlease schedule Mrs. Cartwright for a biopsy of the right ovary and possible hysterectomy ASAP.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Dr. McIntyre put his arm around Jessica\u2019s shoulders and gave her a reassuring hug.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWe\u2019ll know soon where we have to go with this.\u00a0 <\/span>I know it\u2019s hard, but try to not worry until there\u2019s something to worry about.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica wiped her eyes with the tissue she grabbed from Dr. McIntyre\u2019s desk and nodded her head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s see…I can get you scheduled for Friday if you like,\u201d the surgical scheduler said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, that\u2019s not a good day,\u201d Jessica said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJess!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam looked at his wife with shock she was delaying the inevitable. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, have you forgotten we have dinner reservations with your lady doctor friend and her husband?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJess, I think Rebecca and Dave would understand.\u00a0 <\/span>Your health is more important, don\u2019t you think?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI want Jason to be home.\u00a0 <\/span>He\u2019ll be home in a few weeks for spring break.\u00a0 <\/span>I want my son home, Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam sighed deeply but agreed to the delay so their eldest child could be home for the surgery.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you have available for a few weeks from now?\u201d Jessica inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s see…Dr. McIntyre does surgeries on Monday\u2019s and Friday\u2019s so we can schedule you either day.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica looked at Adam. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMonday would be best, don\u2019t you think?\u00a0 <\/span>Jason and Brie will be here all week, Emily and Jillian will also be out of school for spring break as well.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll make sure I take the week off also.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoney, you don\u2019t…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou let me worry about the kids, you focus on yourself, okay?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam ordered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll do it on Monday in two weeks,\u201d Jessica decided.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, you\u2019ll be Dr. McIntyre\u2019s first surgery of the day.\u00a0 <\/span>About a week before the surgery, the hospital will contact you for your pre-admittance.\u00a0 <\/span>Assuming you have no complications from surgery, your stay in the hospital will be just a few days.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, thanks.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Jessica left Dr. McIntyre\u2019s office and headed to the parking garage.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam opened the passenger door to his Porsche, and Jessica got in staring ahead.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam got in on the driver\u2019s side and shut the door.\u00a0 <\/span>He looked at Jessica who sat stoic, not able to say anything or look at Adam. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam grabbed Jessica\u2019s hand and tenderly said, \u201cWe\u2019re going to get through this, Babe.\u00a0 <\/span>Let\u2019s think positive the tumor is benign until Dr. McIntyre tells us otherwise.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica looked over at Adam with tears welling in her eyes, and a small \u201cthanks\u201d escaped her lips.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam drove home, and as he pulled into the garage, he turned off the car and came around to open Jessica\u2019s door.\u00a0 <\/span>He helped her out of the car and took her into his arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, I\u2019ll always love you, no matter what.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI need to call my son, he will want to know about this,\u201d Jessica said as they went into the house. Adam looked at his watch and saw the time was going on 4:00 P.M. in Cambridge. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe might be out of class by now.\u00a0 <\/span>You can try to give him a call and see if he answers his cell,\u201d Adam said.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica picked up the extension in the kitchen and sat down at the breakfast table as she dialed her son\u2019s phone number.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, Mom!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019d you know it was me?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica\u2019s voice was already cheering up with the sound of Jason\u2019s voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBecause Dad and Emily always call me on their cell phones and you always call me on the home phone.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I thought you had mental telepathy or something!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s up, Mom?\u00a0 <\/span>How\u2019s Jillian?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, you would have been so proud of your sister.\u00a0 <\/span>She was so brave last night.\u00a0 <\/span>She didn\u2019t cry when she got the numbing shot or her stitches.\u00a0 <\/span>The doctor rewarded her with lots of stickers, a color book, colors, and a cute pencil.\u00a0 <\/span>Your sister was so excited.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAww, that\u2019s my peanut.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, there\u2019s another reason why I called, Honey.\u00a0 <\/span>Dad and I went to see my gynecologist today. I\u2019ve been having some female issues, and I went to see Dr. McIntyre because I thought I was starting to have symptoms of pre-menopause, but the doctor found a mass on my right ovary, and I\u2019m going to have to have surgery.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason\u2019s voice fell from a happy bounce to one of great concern.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMom, is it serious?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe don\u2019t know yet, Honey.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m having the surgery the Monday you and Brie come home for spring break.\u00a0 <\/span>The doctor will remove the tumor and have a biopsy done while I\u2019m under to find out if its cancer or not.\u00a0 <\/span>If it’s not, He\u2019ll check to make sure everything else looks healthy, and I\u2019ll be out of surgery.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat if it is cancer, Mom?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason\u2019s voice began to break.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll have a complete hysterectomy and Dr. McIntyre will check to see if cancer has spread anywhere else.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are the chances of the tumor being benign?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad and I are keeping a positive attitude it\u2019s benign.\u00a0 <\/span>Dr. McIntyre says I can go ahead and have a hysterectomy, and he would leave the healthy ovary for hormones if the tumor is benign.\u00a0 <\/span>If it is cancerous, he\u2019ll take both ovaries.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you going to do, Mom?\u00a0 <\/span>Do you know yet?\u00a0 <\/span>What does Dad say?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe haven\u2019t discussed all of our options yet, Honey.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll let you know when we decide.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMom, I\u2019m really sorry this is happening to you.\u00a0 <\/span>I love you so much.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, too, Honey.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMom?\u00a0 <\/span>Do you mind if I share this news with Brie?\u00a0 <\/span>I know she would want to know.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, Honey.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t mind.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve got to go, Mom.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m on my way to the library to study for an exam tomorrow.\u00a0 <\/span>Brie and I will call you later tonight.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, Honey, I love you!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica\u2019s voice began to crack.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you too, Mom.\u00a0 <\/span>Everything\u2019s going to be alright, I just know it!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason reassured his mother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know.\u00a0 <\/span>I believe it will be.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll talk to you later.\u00a0 <\/span>Bye, Honey.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBye, Mom.\u00a0 <\/span>I love you so much.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ve raised a great kid, Adam,\u201d Jessica said as she hugged her husband.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, we have,\u201d Adam said as he hugged his wife back trying to hide the pain he was feeling, trying to be strong for his wife.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you hungry?\u00a0 <\/span>Can I make you something to eat?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I\u2019m fine, Babe.\u00a0 <\/span>Don\u2019t you need to get back to the office?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked as she broke their hug and wiped a rogue tear from her eye.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI really should, but you\u2019re more important at the moment.\u00a0 <\/span>Do you want me to stay home with you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, no, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>I know you have a lot to do.\u00a0 <\/span>Go on back to the office.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll be okay.\u00a0 <\/span>Besides, I\u2019ll be picking the girls up from school in a little while.\u00a0 <\/span>I hope Jillian\u2019s doing okay with her hand.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked over at the answering machine.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThere’re no messages on the phone, and they haven\u2019t called me on my cell, so I suppose she\u2019s doing okay.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s a real trouper, our Jillian.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love her so much, Adam,\u201d Jessica started to sob as she thought about leaving her little one motherless.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m staying home with you, Babe.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re in no shape to be home alone.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Adam!\u00a0 <\/span>Go back to work. I \u2019ll be alright.\u00a0 <\/span>I need to think positive everything\u2019s going to be okay, and the tumor is benign.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m keeping those thoughts, but if it shouldn\u2019t work out the way we want it to, we WILL get through this as a family.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Babe.\u00a0 <\/span>Now get out of here!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica ordered.<\/span><\/p>\n

The time came to pick up Emily and Jillian from school, and Jessica decided to take the girl time she would have with her daughters before Adam returned home from work to tell them about her doctor\u2019s appointment and what it all meant.<\/span><\/p>\n

She picked up Jillian first and Jillian said she didn\u2019t have too many problems with pain in her hand during the day, but she was having some pain in the last half hour of school and decided she could wait until she got home to take some pain medicine.<\/span><\/p>\n

They stopped and picked up Emily from school next, and the three girls headed home.<\/span><\/p>\n

Upon their return home, Jessica got a cup of milk and one of the pain pills for Jillian. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you want to eat a PB&J sandwich and milk with your pain meds, Baby Girl?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Mommy, I\u2019m not hungry right now.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Emily had gone to her room to get started on her homework so that she could have the balance of her evening free to talk to her father about the new idea Trey had to spend time with each other at her home with her parents present.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily, can you come to the kitchen, please?\u00a0 <\/span>I need to talk to you and Jillian!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian was telling her mommy about her day at school with the difficulties of having stitches in one hand when Emily came into the kitchen.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSit down, Sweetheart, I need to talk to both of you girls about something.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJillian, remember this morning when you were asking about the change of life?\u00a0 <\/span>Well, you aren\u2019t old enough to know what Emily and I were talking about, but I\u2019ll explain it to you a little now.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica talked about how a girl becomes a woman when her body matures and the complexities of the monthly cycle.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica could see that her youngest daughter was grasping the maturing of a female easier than Emily did when she was pre-pubescent.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen you get to be Mommy\u2019s age, sometimes older, but sometimes even younger, just as you become a woman in her childbearing years, we go through the change where our bodies stop producing eggs, and our periods stop.\u00a0 <\/span>Some women have an easier time of it, some women have night sweats, hot flashes, mood swings, and irregular periods.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you going through the second change, Mommy?\u201d Jillian asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Honey, yes and no.\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy went to her doctor that specializes in all things that have to do with women and mommies, and he found something inside Mommy that needs to come out. The only problem is, it might be something serious, but it might not be serious. We just don\u2019t know yet.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat does that mean, Mommy?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoney, the week you, Jillian, and Jason are on spring break, I\u2019m going to have to go into the hospital for a few days.\u00a0 <\/span>I have to have surgery to have a tumor removed.\u00a0 <\/span>Dr. McIntyre doesn\u2019t know if it is cancer or not.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, what\u2019s cancer?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBaby Girl, cancer are cells that have gone wild, and they attack the healthy cells.\u00a0 <\/span>The tumor mommy has inside her might be those bad cells.\u00a0 <\/span>The doctor will remove the tumor, and he\u2019ll have it tested.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happens if it is cancer, Mommy?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily\u2019s voice started to tremble.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica got up and asked both of her girls to come to her, and she put her arms around both of them.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf it\u2019s cancer, Mommy will have what they call a hysterectomy.\u00a0 <\/span>We hope cancer has stopped, and the hysterectomy will be all I need.\u00a0 <\/span>If any cancer has spread, we\u2019ll have to be more aggressive in trying to stop it before it can do any more damage.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you going to die, Mommy?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian looked up at her mommy with sad, soulful eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica\u2019s eyes puddled with tears, and they rained down her face as she saw the sadness in her daughter\u2019s eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Baby Girl, Mommy hopes she won\u2019t die.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t want to leave you girls, Jason, or Daddy. Dr. McIntyre is doing everything he can to keep that from happening.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily hugged her mother. <\/span><\/p>\n

All the sudden, her ongoing feud with her father seemed so frivolous, and she couldn\u2019t wait for him to get home and apologize for the way she had been acting over the last two weeks.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDoes Jason know, Mommy?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I called him earlier.\u00a0 <\/span>He was on his way to the library to study for an exam and he\u2019s going to call again later when he and Brie are together.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019s Daddy taking the news?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily wanted to know about her hero.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe’s strong, but I can see in his eyes, he\u2019s scared, too.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll get through this as a family.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica was in the final stages of dinner preparations when Adam arrived home from the office. He came through the garage door into the kitchen.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica was getting milk from the fridge to warm up for the mashed potatoes she was making to go with the roast she was preparing. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMmm, smells good!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam said as he tossed his suit jacket into his hand with his briefcase so he could hug his wife around her waist. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDinner should be ready shortly.\u00a0 <\/span>If you want to take a shower and change, you have time.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow are you feeling, Babe?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam looked at Jessica with concern in his eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m okay.\u00a0 <\/span>I told the girls; they\u2019re concerned, of course, but we\u2019ll take it one day at a time.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam kissed Jessica on the side of her head and left to put his briefcase away in the office, and he stopped off at Jillian\u2019s room to see if she had any math homework she needed help on and to see how her hand was.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Daddy!\u00a0 <\/span>I got a hundred on my math worksheet today!\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWonderful, Sweetpea!\u00a0 <\/span>Do you have more math homework you need help on?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian stuck her lip out in a pout and nodded her head yes.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam laughed and said they would work on it after dinner.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian smiled and ran to hug her father.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam then stopped off at Emily\u2019s room and knocked quietly. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPrincess, how was your day?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Over the past few weeks, Emily had only said, \u2018fine\u2019 through her door, but today, she threw open the door and leaped into her father\u2019s arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy!\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m so glad you\u2019re home!\u00a0 <\/span>Daddy, I\u2019m so sorry for the way I\u2019ve been acting.\u00a0 <\/span>I know I\u2019ve been acting like a baby, and I didn\u2019t mean it.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t hate you, I love you with all my heart. I\u2019m so sorry.\u00a0 <\/span>Please forgive me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam was taken aback by the warm reception he received from his daughter. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPrincess, I love you.\u00a0 <\/span>I only want the very best for you. I\u00a0 <\/span>may not always make decisions you like, but the decisions I make are made because I love you, and I want what is best for you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Daddy.\u00a0 <\/span>I see that now.\u00a0 <\/span>Trey even understood when I told him about it, too, but I was just so upset, I didn\u2019t want to see it your way.\u00a0 <\/span>Will you forgive me for the way I acted?\u00a0 <\/span>I was so ugly to you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPrincess, I will never stop loving you, no matter how upset you get with me.\u00a0 <\/span>We both were angry and said things we shouldn\u2019t have said.\u00a0 <\/span>I love you more than you\u2019ll ever know.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t you go help Mommy with dinner. I\u2019m going to take a shower.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s been a long day.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, Daddy. Can I have a kiss and hug?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam gave his daughter a kiss on her lips and a tight hug; a hug he had been missing in return for the past few weeks.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Jessica was draining the potatoes, the phone rang; it was Jason and Brianna.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHello?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Mom!\u00a0 <\/span>Hi, Jess!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason and Brianna said over Jason\u2019s speaker phone on his cell.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJessica, Jason told me about your visit to the gynecologist today.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m so sorry to hear the news.\u00a0 <\/span>Just know we \u2018ll be there to support you when you have your surgery and anything you need all week while we\u2019re home in Nevada.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Brie, it means a lot to me that you and Jason will be able to be here for the surgery.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe wouldn\u2019t think of being anywhere else, Mom!\u00a0 <\/span>Even if it weren’t spring break, we would be coming home for something major like this,\u201d Jason interjected.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSounds like you\u2019re cooking dinner, Mom, so we\u2019ll let you go, but we wanted to call and tell you we love you, and we\u2019ll see you in about ten days!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you two also! Don\u2019t stay up too late studying for midterms.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe won\u2019t, we promise. Love you, Mom!\u00a0 <\/span>Love you, Jessica!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLove you guys, too!\u00a0 <\/span>Bye!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWas that Jason, Mommy?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily asked as she came in to help with putting the plates and glasses on the table.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, it was Jason and Brie. They were just calling to tell me they loved me and were thinking about me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAwe, I have such a great brother, and he has a beautiful girlfriend, too!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, you are blessed to have such a wonderful brother.\u00a0 <\/span>I know if anything ever happened to Daddy and me, you and Jillian would be in good hands.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMOMMY!\u00a0 <\/span>Don\u2019t talk like that!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily scolded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSorry! sorry!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica surrendered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou and Daddy going to have wine with dinner tonight, Mommy?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know about Daddy, but I don\u2019t think I want wine this evening, Sweetheart, I\u2019m just going to have some hot tea, I think.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBy the way, did you get your camp and uniform money turned in today?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYep, I sure did.\u00a0 <\/span>Thanks!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt gets more expensive for you to be a cheerleader every year!\u00a0 <\/span>I hate to think what it\u2019s going to cost when Jillian gets to high school!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe you\u2019ll get lucky, and she won\u2019t want to be a cheerleader, Mommy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Sweetheart, it\u2019s not the money, we can afford it, I just think it\u2019s overpriced for the uniforms, the competitions, and all the other associated fees, that\u2019s all.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, but I love being a cheerleader.\u00a0 <\/span>I have lots of fun.\u00a0 <\/span>I hope I can continue to do it in college, too!\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, heavens, I wonder what that\u2019ll cost us!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily came over to her mother and put her arm around her shoulder, \u201cBut aren\u2019t I worth it, Mommy?\u201d she said batting her eyelashes at her mother.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica turned and put her arms around her daughter who was almost as tall as she and said, \u201cSweetheart, you are worth every penny we put into your happiness,\u201d and she kissed her forehead.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan I get in on some of this love action?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam said as he came into the kitchen after taking a shower and changing into some jeans and a t-shirt.<\/span><\/p>\n

The two elder Cartwright women looked at each other, and Jessica said, \u201cYou think he deserves love from two fabulous women?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHmm, I don\u2019t know, Mommy.\u00a0 <\/span>Oh sure, why not, he came home at a decent hour tonight.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, geez, girls, thanks!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam said as he came over and hugged both his girls.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, what about me?\u201d Jillian said as she stood at the entrance to the kitchen with her hands on her hips, looking just like her older sister and mother when they did the same thing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome here, Baby Girl!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said, as her daughter ran to join the group hug.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOUCH!\u201d said the small voice in the tight hug.<\/span><\/p>\n

The foursome immediately broke the hug when they realized Jillian\u2019s injured hand had gotten caught in the embrace.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSorry, Baby Girl!\u00a0 <\/span>We got carried away!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said as she grabbed her hand and tenderly kissed it. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s okay, Mommy.\u00a0 <\/span>I’m all right.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHere, Peanut, you carry the forks for me, okay?\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll get the glasses.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica finished mashing the potatoes, and the family sat down to dinner.<\/span><\/p>\n

After dinner was finished, Adam helped Jillian with her homework while Jessica cleared the dinner dishes and put them in the dishwasher.\u00a0 <\/span>After her homework was finished, Emily helped Jillian take a bath and get ready for bed.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam went back to the kitchen to see if Jessica still needed help with the dishes, but she was finished, so he grabbed a bottle of wine and a couple of glasses. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome’re, Mrs. Cartwright, I want to go cuddle with you on the couch tonight.\u00a0 <\/span>We haven\u2019t done it in a very long time.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI like the sound of that, Mr. Cartwright!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam went into the formal living room with the bottle of wine and the glasses.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica joined him on the couch.\u00a0 <\/span>She kicked off her shoes and folded her feet up under her legs and snuggled into her husband\u2019s chest as she sipped on her wine.<\/span><\/p>\n

After Jillian had her bath, Emily sent her into the living room to give her mommy and daddy a kiss and hug goodnight.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily tucked her in and wished her sweet dreams. <\/span><\/p>\n

After Emily had shut the door, she came to the entrance of the living room where she saw Adam and Jessica being romantic with each other, kissing, and Adam being playful with Jessica trying to unbutton her blouse. <\/span><\/p>\n

Emily cleared her throat to get her parents attention so that they knew they were no longer alone. When they looked up, they were still giggling when they invited Emily in to sit down.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy, I wanted to talk to you about something.\u00a0 <\/span>I hope you\u2019ll listen with an open mind, okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam straightened himself up and put his wine glass down after taking a sip.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica sat up buttoning up her shirt but stayed cuddled in Adam\u2019s arm.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI told Trey I couldn\u2019t go to the prom with him because I wasn\u2019t sixteen yet.\u00a0 <\/span>Surprisingly, he understood and respected your decision.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSmart boy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe really, really likes me, Daddy, and I like him.\u00a0 <\/span>He wants to get to know me better, so he thought, if it was okay with you, maybe he could come over here, and we could spend some time together here in the house with you and Mommy here.\u00a0 <\/span>We could watch TV or a movie, play games, or study.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stopped and digested everything Trey had proposed via Emily. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPrincess, it has nothing to do with Trey, please understand this…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily could hear the big BUT coming on, and her face started to sour.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure Trey is a fantastic young man, but the rules are the rules.\u00a0 <\/span>No seeing boys until you are sixteen.\u00a0 <\/span>Even if you spend time with them here in the house with Mommy and me at home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily couldn\u2019t hold back her tears any longer.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI just don\u2019t understand, Daddy!\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m going to be sixteen in six months.\u00a0 <\/span>Why can\u2019t we have a compromise?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily Elizabeth, crying is not going to make me change my mind.\u00a0 <\/span>If Trey really likes you the way he says he does, he\u2019ll wait for you to turn sixteen, end of discussion.\u00a0 <\/span>Now, it\u2019s getting late, you need to get on to bed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily got up and stormed off crying.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not fair!\u201d she screamed as she walked to her bedroom slamming the door as she went in.<\/span><\/p>\n

It broke Adam\u2019s heart to disappoint his daughter again after they had made headway and got back to where they had been before the first argument.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam was not budging where his daughter and boys were concerned.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica watched her daughter storm off to her room and without any word, she got up off the couch, grabbed her shoes, and retreated to the bedroom she shared with Adam and began getting ready for bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhere are you going, Jess?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked, but she did not respond to him.<\/span><\/p>\n

After a few minutes, Adam got up and headed to the bedroom.\u00a0 <\/span>When he walked in, he saw Jessica taking the comforter off the bed in a huff.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam walked over to her and gently took her arm and asked what was going on, and why had she left suddenly without any word and went to their room to go to bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica looked up at Adam with anger in her eyes as she pulled away, \u201cWhat is it with you, Adam?\u00a0 <\/span>Why are you such a damn control freak where Emily is concerned?\u00a0 <\/span>Do you want to keep her all to yourself?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cExcuse me, Jessica?\u00a0 <\/span>You care to clarify yourself?\u00a0 <\/span>What the hell are you insinuating?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam\u2019s voice and body grew tense.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour daughter is reaching out to you, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>She likes a boy, he likes her.\u00a0 <\/span>They want to spend time together, but you’re totally unreasonable!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHere we go again.\u00a0 <\/span>I thought I made my made my reasons clear to both of you on this.\u00a0 <\/span>Why are we arguing about it again?\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll explain again, but this time, pay attention, PLEASE!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cExcuse me?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily is not dating or seeing any boys until she\u2019s sixteen, end of story.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m not going to keep revisiting this subject.\u00a0 <\/span>The rules are the rules!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam went into the closet to take off his clothes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRules are guidelines.\u00a0 <\/span>They\u2019re not fixed in stone, Adam,\u201d Jessica followed him into the closet to take off her clothes as well.<\/span><\/p>\n

Wanting to defuse a heated argument, Adam came over to Jessica and put his arms around her and tried to start kissing her on her neck.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t want to get into an argument about this, I want to continue where we left off in the living room.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica jerked away, \u201cDon\u2019t try to use sex as a weapon to divert me,\u00a0 <\/span>Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>You are the master manipulator at that.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd what\u2019s that supposed to mean?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam\u2019s voice changed back to a deep controlled anger.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re a smart man, you went to Harvard,\u201d Jessica said as she went to the dresser to get a pajama set to put on.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo this is how you punish me for disappointing our daughter?\u00a0 <\/span>Who\u2019s using sex as a weapon here?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica turned around and slapped Adam, \u201cDon\u2019t ever accuse me of withholding sex from you because we\u2019re arguing.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t play those games.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t accuse me of it either then.\u00a0 <\/span>I would never withhold something so intimate and loving as a way to punish you.\u00a0 <\/span>We were having a lovely time on the couch.\u00a0 <\/span>I wanted to start foreplay in the living room and then bring you in here for a night of passion like you had never seen.\u00a0 <\/span>Then our daughter came in, told me she had a new idea to see a boy.\u00a0 <\/span>I told her the rules, she got mad and stormed off.\u00a0 <\/span>You then stormed off right behind her, killing the moment.\u00a0 <\/span>When I came and asked what\u2019s wrong, I\u2019m practically accused of incest, which by the way, Jessica, is way below the belt, even for you.\u00a0 <\/span>So tell me again who\u2019s playing what games?\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve lost my program.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cQuestion, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>What makes you think when Emily goes to bed on October 1st and wakes up sixteen on October 2nd, she\u2019s going to be any different?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stared at Jessica with a confused look.\u00a0 <\/span>He didn\u2019t know how to respond to her question.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you talking about?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica rolled her eyes, \u201cAdam, Emily will be fifteen on the 1st of October.\u00a0 <\/span>She will go to bed fifteen and wake up on the second, sixteen.\u00a0 <\/span>She will not have magically transformed into a new Emily because she\u2019s now sixteen.\u00a0 <\/span>What I\u2019m trying to say to you is, the rule about being sixteen to date boys is ridiculous!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou didn\u2019t think it was ridiculous when we were engaged, and we started to plan how we wanted to raise our family.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t have children at the time either, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>I didn\u2019t realize how individual they would all be.\u00a0 <\/span>We have three kids, each a product of both of us yet, they are all three very different. Jason couldn’t have cared less about girls when he was fifteen and sixteen; his girlfriend was his school work.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian seems to be headed down the same path…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason now has found the girl he wants to marry at nineteen, and Jillian hasn\u2019t even hit puberty yet.\u00a0 <\/span>Your point is?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam said with an audacious tone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell maybe if you let me finish,\u201d Jessica bit back.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat I\u2019m trying to say, if you will quit interrupting me,with the comments from the peanut gallery, is we didn\u2019t have this issue with Jason because he never cared much about dating in high school.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily is uniquely different from Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>She likes boys, she wants to see them outside of school.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily\u2019s a good kid, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>She makes good grades, she\u2019s never broken curfew, she calls us when she\u2019s moving from one place to the other.\u00a0 <\/span>She doesn\u2019t hide anything from us, but if you continue to act this way, she\u2019s going to find a way to see Trey, even if it is behind our back.\u00a0 <\/span>Is that what you want?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf I catch her doing something like that….\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ll do what, Adam?\u00a0 <\/span>Break every bone in the boy\u2019s body and ground her for life?\u00a0 <\/span>She wants to see him!\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s less than six months from being sixteen!\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s mature enough already!\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s asking us to give her our blessing!\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s not sneaking around behind our backs, but if you want it that way, keep it up!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam finally gave in. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAlright!\u00a0 <\/span>You and Emily win, Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>Trey can come here to the house, and they can spend time alone in the living room or in the family room, only if one or both of us is home!\u00a0 <\/span>They cannot go out alone until she\u2019s sixteen, though.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica smiled and with a loving tone, she came to Adam and put her arms around him and said, \u201cSee? was that so hard?\u00a0 <\/span>Adam, whether you like it or not, our daughter is growing up!\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019ll always love you.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019ll always be your baby girl; your Princess.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI just don\u2019t want to ever see her get hurt.\u00a0 <\/span>I was a seventeen-year-old boy at one time.\u00a0 <\/span>I know how they can be.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily says Trey really likes her a lot.\u00a0 <\/span>He respected your wish when you told him they could\u2019t go to the prom.\u00a0 <\/span>He could have blown her off then and went to the next girl in line, but he didn\u2019t. He really likes our daughter.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m not saying he\u2019ll be the one she marries someday, but for a high school crush, he seems like a decent kid who will protect her, not hurt her.\u00a0 <\/span>Besides, nobody can predict the outcome of any relationship.\u00a0 <\/span>If they start seeing each other, and somewhere down the line, they break up, you\u2019ll be here with your broad daddy shoulders for her to cry on.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica felt a sharp pain in her ovaries and doubled over in pain.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBabe!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be okay.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve just been having a lot of pain the past few days.\u00a0 <\/span>Now I know why.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam helped Jessica over to the bed where she put her silk pajama shorts set on.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam climbed into bed and pulled his wife next to him and held her in his arms until they both fell asleep.<\/span><\/p>\n

The next morning at breakfast, Adam announced to Emily the good news she had wanted to hear; she could invite Trey over to spend time with her outside of school as long as one or both of her parents were home.\u00a0 <\/span>She hugged and thanked both her parents and told them she wouldn\u2019t let them down and would always respect the rules they set forth where she and Trey were concerned.<\/span><\/p>\n

Chapter Seven<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

The end of a hectic week finally arrived, and Adam was looking forward to seeing his old flame and now special friend, Rebecca Roberts, again. <\/span><\/p>\n

The day was jammed, and it looked like he might not be able to get out by the 5:00 P.M. deadline he set for himself, but he was working diligently to make it happen.<\/span><\/p>\n

As 5:00 P.M. rolled around, Adam, knee deep in proposals, even seeing he wasn\u2019t anywhere near ready to call it a day, wrapped up for the weekend.\u00a0 <\/span>At the rate his day was going, he could easily have been at the office until midnight and still not have everything he needed to do done. With all the distractions of the day, he decided he would spend Sunday afternoon at the office after church, to get caught up on what he had not been able to get accomplished on Friday.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam arrived home at 5:45 P.M. and found his wife in the bathroom getting herself dolled up for their guests who would arrive at 6:30 P.M..<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou look beautiful, Jess,\u201d Adam said as he quickly stripped out of his boxers to take a quick shower.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI bet you say that to all the women you see standing at their bathroom mirror in just their panties, putting on make-up,\u201d Jessica teased.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam came over and wrapped his arms around his wife\u2019s waist and whispered, \u201cShhh, don\u2019t tell my wife.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The two laughed as Adam jumped in the shower.<\/span><\/p>\n

When he came out, Adam wrapped a towel around his waist, combed his thinning hair and trimmed up his well-manicured beard.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica came in dressed in a form-fitting red silk dress which came to just above her knees with off the shoulders sleeves.\u00a0 <\/span>Her red patent shoes finished off her total look.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow do I look?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>She asked turning around so Adam could see her dressed completely.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stopped trimming his beard when he saw Jessica in the reflection of the mirror.\u00a0 <\/span>He turned and gathered his wife into his arms and looked at her adoringly in her eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou think it\u2019s too late to cancel?\u00a0 <\/span>I want to take this dress off of you right no. \u00a0Woman, what you do to me!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>He kissed Jessica passionately. <\/span><\/p>\n

In his haste, Adam had left the door open to their bedroom when he arrived home, and Jessica didn\u2019t notice the doors being open either; Emily knew with the doors being open, she was allowed to enter without knocking.\u00a0 <\/span>She came into the bathroom and quickly turned away when she saw her parents acting like two love sick teenagers.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSorry, Mommy and Daddy, your door was open, I thought it was okay to come in!\u00a0 <\/span>The pizza guy is here; I need some money.<\/span><\/p>\n

The two parents laughed as they got caught in a lovers\u2019 embrace.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam walked into the bedroom to get his wallet out of the trousers he had worn to work.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily\u2019s face grew a dozen shades of red as she saw her father in just a towel.\u00a0 <\/span>Noticing his daughter\u2019s embarrassment, he decided to have a bit of fun with her since he was in a playful mood.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFor someone who parades around the house half naked all the time, you sure seem to be embarrassed you\u2019ve caught your old man half naked in his own bedroom,\u201d he winked as he got cash from his wallet.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy, stop!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily laughed as she turned her head again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey!\u00a0 <\/span>I think I keep in good shape for an old guy, don\u2019t you think?\u00a0 <\/span>Holding his arms out to show off his massive chest and well-defined arms and shoulders. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy, you\u2019re embarrassing me, stop!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily\u2019s face grew redder the harder she laughed. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica was practically in tears with laughter.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cOkay, Adam, you\u2019ve had your fun, give the child some money for the pizza,\u201d Jessica said through her laughter.<\/span><\/p>\n

He walked over to his daughter, who often paraded around the house in not much more than Adam was wearing in the privacy of his bedroom, took Emily into his arms, kissed her on the forehead, and put the money in her hands.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, Princess.\u00a0 <\/span>Here\u2019s the money for the pizza.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you more, Daddy, but with clothes on, please?\u00a0 <\/span>Remember, Cartwrights aren\u2019t nudists!\u201d Emily winked at her daddy as she turned and left the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stood with a broad smile on his face.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica looked at Adam and then at the door of their room where Emily had just exited. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPrivate joke between the two of you?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica inquired as she leaned against the wall with her hands wrapped around her waist. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cClose the door, I need to finish getting dressed,\u201d Adam said as he stripped his towel, threw it on the bed, and went over to the dresser to get a fresh pair of boxers.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked up remembering back to when his princess was just a little girl. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen Emily was just about four if I remember she came into my room very early one morning telling me she was hungry; she was just wearing her panties, I remember.\u00a0 <\/span>You know how she was back then, you would put her pajamas on her at bedtime, but when you would go to check on her later, she had taken them all off and was sleeping on top of her covers, even in the dead of winter.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cStill does, half the time,\u201d Jessica commented, smiling as Adam told a story about their daughter\u2019s younger years when they were divorced.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI told her little girls, such as herself, weren\u2019t nudists and needed to wear their pajamas. \u00a0Oh my gosh! That one statement opened a Pandora\u2019s box of questions about what a nudist was and why couldn\u2019t she be a nudist.\u00a0 <\/span>She had to know why it was okay Daddy, and Jason could sleep and sometimes go without a shirt.\u00a0 <\/span>I mean, we must have sat there for almost a half hour with her sitting on my chest wanting to know all about the word nudist.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Adam,\u201d Jessica could hardly catch her breath from laughing so hard, \u201cYou never told me about that conversation.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled as he thought about his small little princess whom he adored so much when he was just a weekend dad, \u201cShe was a pistol back then…Still is!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica\u2019s eyes got big as she laughed and nodded her head in agreement.<\/span><\/p>\n

She walked up to Adam, put her arms around his waist and gave him a light kiss on the lips, then slapped his bare bum and said, \u201cNow get dressed before our guests arrive.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m going to feel strange enough having your old girlfriend in my home.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m going to need you by my side until I can get to know her better.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam headed to the closet to get out the suit he planned to wear to dinner and put his boxers, trousers, dress shirt and tie on.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJess, thanks for being a good sport about this.\u00a0 <\/span>I know you never cared for Rebecca, but you\u2019ll see what a lovely person she is by the end of the night,\u201d Adam said as he buttoned his dark pink and white striped dress shirt.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t go pushing your luck, Adam Cartwright.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m doing this for you because I love you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam grabbed his wife from behind and kissed her neck, \u201cI\u2019ll show you how much I love you and appreciate you later tonight, my little sex kitten.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll hold you to that, now finish getting dressed will ya?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam went back to the closet to get the jacket to his Armani suit.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily and Jillian were eating their pizza and playing a game of Sorry!<\/strong><\/em> when Adam peeked his head in to see if they needed anything before their guests arrived.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily\u2019s eyes got wide as she saw her father all dressed up.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy, you look handsome,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>She came over to give him a hug and kiss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Princess!\u00a0 <\/span>Do you two need anything else?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNope, Mommy got us some movies today, we have our pizza.\u00a0 <\/span>I think we\u2019re good!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m beating Emmy at Sorry!<\/strong><\/em>, Daddy!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian boasted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s great, Sweetpea!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam heard the door bell ring just then and told his girls to have fun, and he would see them later. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam went to the door, and when he opened it, he saw a vision of loveliness he had not seen in over ten years.\u00a0 <\/span>He opened the glass door and welcomed Rebecca and her husband into his home.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, you are looking great!\u00a0 <\/span>How have you been?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Rebecca asked as she gave him a kiss on the cheek and a big hug.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWhen did this happen?\u201d she asked surprisingly stroking his beard.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve been well, Becky, you\u2019re looking stunning!\u00a0 <\/span>Motherhood agrees with you!\u00a0 <\/span>The beard?\u00a0 <\/span>Well, when one loses hair elsewhere, he has to balance it out in another,\u201d Adam laughed stroking his balding head.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica heard Adam at the front door greeting their guests.\u00a0 <\/span>She was a bit nervous to join him as she hadn\u2019t seen Rebecca since she had seen her when Adam lay in the ICU in critical condition when they were divorced over ten years prior. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I would like you to meet my husband, David.\u00a0 <\/span>Dave, this is Adam Cartwright, a very old dear friend.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Dave shook hands as Adam smiled broadly, \u201cWith an emphasis on old,\u201d Adam laughed.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cIt\u2019s good to meet you, Dave, welcome to our home.<\/span><\/p>\n

Just as he finished shaking Dave\u2019s hand, he saw Jessica as she was coming up the hall, and he motioned her over to his side.\u00a0 <\/span>He put his arm around her and said, \u201cHoney, you remember, Rebecca.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The two smiled and acknowledged each other. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis is Rebecca\u2019s husband, Dave,\u2019 gesturing to the tall, handsome gentleman in a black pinstripe suit.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica shook Dave\u2019s hand and told him how nice it was to meet him and welcomed him and his wife, Rebecca, to her home.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWould you like to come in and sit down?\u00a0 <\/span>Can I get you a cocktail, beer, or wine?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Rebecca and Dave looked at each other, \u201cYou want a beer, Honey?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Rebecca asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, that\u2019d be great, Adam, I\u2019ll have a beer.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam then looked back at Rebecca and said, \u201cRed wine?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSome things never change, Adam!\u201d she smiled broadly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam then went over and took Jessica into his arms, \u201cWine, Babe?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, I would love some, Honey,\u201d She said looking at Rebecca and Dave as they sat on the couch making loving eyes at each other.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam went and got the wine and beer, and Jessica went to sit on the love seat next to the sofa where Rebecca and Dave were sitting.\u00a0 <\/span>She had to think of some small talk while Adam was gone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo Adam tells me you\u2019re no longer at Boston Children\u2019s; you now have twin girls?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes!\u00a0 <\/span>They are five and are the apples of our eyes. I thought I would always remain in practice; even after giving birth but when our girls came along, I knew there was nothing more I wanted to be but a stay at home mom.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know what you mean.\u00a0 <\/span>Even when Adam and I were divorced, he always made sure the kids and I were taken care of to the point where I didn\u2019t have to work.\u00a0 <\/span>I loved my job, however, so I worked on the weekends when he had the kids.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam tells me Jason\u2019s in college now?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, he goes to M.I.T..\u00a0\u00a0<\/span>We’re so proud of him.\u00a0 <\/span>He has a girlfriend whom he met in Cambridge; she attends Wellesley.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Just as Jessica was getting comfortable talking to Rebecca and Dave, Emily came out and interrupted her mother\u2019s conversation.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy?\u201d her voice was timid as she walked into the room, \u201cI\u2019m sorry to interrupt, but something\u2019s wrong with the DVD player.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t know why, but I can\u2019t get the movie to play.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s okay, Sweetheart, come here, I want to introduce you to an old friend of Daddy\u2019s.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t know if you even remember her when you met her when you were little.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily, this is Rebecca and her husband, Dave. Rebecca, Dave, our daughter, Emily!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy gosh!\u00a0 <\/span>You’ve grown into a beautiful young lady, Emily!\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sure you don\u2019t remember me; you were only four when I lived here and knew your father.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re a doctor aren\u2019t you?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily said timidly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes! you remember me helping your brother when he broke his leg?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI vaguely remember you.\u00a0 <\/span>I was very young.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, you were about four, I believe.\u00a0 <\/span>I even spent a day with you, your brother, and dad at the Ponderosa one afternoon after Jason\u2019s accident.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t remember that, but I do remember you from the park and the hospital.\u00a0 <\/span>How are you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m good.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re such a beautiful young lady now!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily blushed and bowed her head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Ma\u2019am.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Just as Jessica excused herself\u00a0<\/span>and Emily to fix the DVD player, Jillian emerged from the den wondering what was taking Emily so long.\u00a0 <\/span>When Jessica saw her, she called her over so she could introduce her to Rebecca and Dave also.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome here, Baby Girl. I want to introduce you to an old friend of Daddy\u2019s.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian got shy, walked over and clung to her mommy. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJillian, this is an old friend of Daddy\u2019s, her name is Dr. Rebecca and her husband, Dr. Dave.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian hid her face in her mommy\u2019s side.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, she\u2019s a bit shy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Rebecca smiled and said, \u201cWe totally understand.\u00a0 <\/span>Our daughters do the same thing when they meet strangers.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a pleasure to meet you, Jillian, what happened to your hand?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Rebecca asked in a sweet tone kneeling down to her level. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI got a cut,\u201d was all Jillian would answer turning her face back to the safety of her mommy\u2019s side.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe was being a big helper one night, taking her dishes into the kitchen and dropped her glass.\u00a0 <\/span>Before Adam or I could tell her not to pick it up, she had bent down and a piece of glass sliced her hand open.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica explained while stroking Jillian\u2019s locks.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re beautiful, just like your sister and mommy.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m glad you weren’t seriously hurt.\u201d Rebecca said patting Jillian on the arm.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam came back into the room with a couple of beers and two glasses of wine.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI see you\u2019ve met our girls!\u00a0 <\/span>You probably remember Emily, Becky.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI do!\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s so grown up and beautiful!\u00a0 <\/span>Of course, she was a gorgeous little girl when I knew her way back when.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As Adam started to hand Jessica her glass of wine, she told Adam she would get it when she returned; she had to fix the DVD player for the girls.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica excused herself, the girls, and they went into the family room so Jessica could repair the DVD player.\u00a0 <\/span>When they had privacy, Emily asked her mother about Rebecca.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen Jason got hurt on the playground, she came to help him, and she and Daddy became friends.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica didn\u2019t want to elaborate any more than she did because their relationship had long been over, but Emily asked more uncomfortable questions about Rebecca to her mother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid Daddy love her?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat makes you ask that, Sweetheart?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know.\u00a0 <\/span>I kinda remember Daddy talking on the phone a lot to her when I was younger when we spent the weekends with him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe was very special to your daddy at one time, yes, but she moved away.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs that when you and Daddy got back together?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian was listening with great interest as well.\u00a0 <\/span>She had not been born and never knew her parents were divorced.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily, we\u2019ll talk about this another time, okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica fixed the DVD player, and the movie started to play.\u00a0 <\/span>The two girls sat back down and ate more of their pizza which had now gone cold, but they didn\u2019t seem to mind.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica walked out and closed the door.\u00a0 <\/span>She stopped and took a deep breath.\u00a0 <\/span>She straightened her dress and joined her husband back in the formal living room where Adam was showing Rebecca and Dave the photo album the kids had given them a few years before as an anniversary gift from their photo shoot they had done on the Ponderosa.\u00a0 <\/span>He went over to the fireplace mantle and took down a picture of himself and Jessica, Jason, and Brianna at the New Year\u2019s Eve Gala to show them a recent picture of their son, and the girl he would one day marry.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Adam, he has grown up to be a handsome young man!\u00a0 <\/span>His girlfriend is gorgeous, too! Seems like only yesterday he was the small boy I was setting a broken leg for!\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Rebecca then showed the picture to her husband, Dave, and explained the story of how she met Adam and his children when she had gone to the park to enjoy a day reading her book about Shakespeare.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis is the boy who fell out of the swing and broke his leg.\u00a0 <\/span>He is the reason we met in the first place!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Dave nodded his head and replied, \u201cAdam and Jessica, you have a beautiful family, you must be proud.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe are, Dave,\u201d Adam said as he looked at Jessica with love in his eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

Rebecca smiled as she studied Adam and Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>She knew she had done the right thing over ten years before.\u00a0 <\/span>She knew Adam had many unresolved feelings for Jessica when she left; she knew their relationship would never have worked because of them. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked at his watch and the time was almost 7:30 P.M.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI guess we better get going if we\u2019re going to make our reservations on time!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Rebecca and Dave followed behind Jessica and Adam to Adel\u2019s, and the two couples had a wonderful dinner with each other.\u00a0 <\/span>When it came time to leave, Jessica had relaxed considerably and was enjoying herself.\u00a0 <\/span>The two women had bonded over talking about the joys and hardships of raising children as well as many other interests they had in common such as Shakespeare and cooking.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the two couples said their goodbye\u2019s, Adam and Rebecca hugged tightly, and Adam kissed her on the cheek.\u00a0 <\/span>He told her how the years had been good to her, and how fantastic it was to see her again.<\/span><\/p>\n

Dave gave Jessica a hug and kiss on the cheek, while Adam and Rebecca continued sharing a private moment together. <\/span><\/p>\n

Dave extended an offer for Jessica, Adam, and their family to come and visit if they were ever in the Boston area.\u00a0 <\/span>He also invited them to come out during the summer anytime and vacation with them at their home on Nantucket. <\/span><\/p>\n

When Adam and Rebecca broke their embrace, Dave and Adam shook hands, thanked him for dinner and told him how much he enjoyed the evening.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Rebecca came to Jessica as Dave and Adam were talking and said, \u201cI know this started out uncomfortable for you tonight, but I\u2019m glad we all got together.\u00a0 <\/span>You have a beautiful family, Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>You and Adam look very happy as well.\u00a0 <\/span>Thank you for opening your home to us, and I couldn\u2019t think of a dinner I\u2019ve ever had with two more enchanting people.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know I was a horrible person to you all those years ago.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m truly sorry for being so rude and mean.\u00a0 <\/span>I never stopped loving Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>I hope you understand.\u00a0 <\/span>You are everything Adam said you were and more.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve enjoyed getting to know you and Dave this evening.\u00a0 <\/span>I hope we can do it again when we come to Boston for Jason\u2019s graduation, if not before.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI look forward to it, but don\u2019t wait until then!\u00a0 <\/span>Dave and I would love for you and the family to come to our summer home on Nantucket sometime!\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s big enough for everyone, and we would love to have you as our guests!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDave mentioned it, and it sounds great.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam and I will discuss it.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ve been debating where we wanted to go on vacation this summer.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll be sure either Adam or I get in touch with you so we can work out the details.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica and Rebecca gave each other a hug and kissed on the cheek.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam grinned from ear to ear as he saw his wife\u2019s old nemesis was a friend now.<\/span><\/p>\n

On their way home from dinner, Jessica and Adam discussed the possibility of going to Nantucket for vacation in the summer.\u00a0 <\/span>They hoped everyone could work it into their hectic summer schedule.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica planned to let Jason know of their plans so he and Brie could join them on the island before making summer plans of their own.<\/span><\/p>\n

When they returned home, Adam found Emily watching a late night comedy talk show while Jillian, already in her pajamas, slept in her lap.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily had cleaned up the pizza, drinks, and snacks.\u00a0 <\/span>She also put the Sorry!<\/strong><\/em> game back into its box and into the closet.\u00a0 <\/span>When she saw her father, she smiled and looked at her sister sleeping soundly and stroked her hair.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam came and picked up his sleeping daughter and put her in her bed; she never woke up.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam kissed her forehead and walked out of her room, quietly closing the door behind her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid you and Mommy have a good time tonight, Daddy?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily quietly asked as she met her father in the hallway going to her room for the night.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe did, Princess. Rebecca is a dear old friend.\u00a0 <\/span>It was good to see her again and meet her husband,\u201d Adam said as he undid his tie.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019ve invited us to vacation with them at their summer home on Nantucket in Massachusetts. Mommy and I are going to see if we can work it out to go there when you, Jillian, and Jason get out of school for the summer and before you go to cheerleader camp.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSounds like fun, Daddy.\u00a0 <\/span>My friend Cheryl went there for vacation last year; she said it\u2019s a great place!\u00a0 <\/span>Lots of shopping!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily grinned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019d I know if you could find a way to empty my wallet, you would?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam said as he took his princess into his arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s my duty, Daddy!\u00a0 <\/span>I have to stay in training for when I get married.\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy\u2019s a pro, and I want to be just like her!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam pulled back and looked adoringly into his daughter\u2019s eyes.\u00a0 <\/span>He saw so much of Jessica in his middle child.\u00a0 <\/span>He felt so blessed to have such a beautiful, funny, and silly daughter.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, Princess, sleep well.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily kissed her father on the lips and said, \u201cLove you more, Daddy!\u00a0 <\/span>Good night!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily broke the father-daughter embrace and went into her room.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam felt his eyes get misty as he thought of his daughter one day leaving their home to become another man\u2019s woman.\u00a0 <\/span>My baby\u2019s growing up; he thought quietly to himself as he turned to walk into his room where Jessica was taking off her shoes.<\/span><\/p>\n

When she saw Adam come in unbuttoning his shirt, she went over to him and turned around, moving her hair to the side to have him unzip her dress.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam took the opportunity to suckle his wife\u2019s neck. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou have the sexiest neck any man could ask for,\u201d He said in between each love bite.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica twisted in Adam\u2019s arms and continued to unbutton his dress shirt, pulling the tails from his trousers as she ran her hands under his shirt through the salt and pepper forest of chest hair. She lifted up his undershirt and started nibbling his right nipple, making Adam growl with excitement. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam finished unzipping Jessica\u2019s dress letting it fall to the floor.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica removed Adam\u2019s shirt and unbuckled his belt.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam picked up his wife, laid her down on the bed and started to unbutton his trousers to remove them when a knock came at the door. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stopped, closed his eyes and sighed.\u00a0 <\/span>He walked to the door to find Jillian standing at the door crying. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian’s sobs were growing stronger when she saw her father.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam bent down to hold her in his arms to quiet her fears.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s the matter, Sweetpea?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam said as he stroked her back, trying to settle his daughter\u2019s tears.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI want my mommy,\u201d she cried.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s right over there on the bed.\u00a0 <\/span>Go and see her,\u201d Adam said as he broke their embrace.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian ran to her mommy and leaped into her arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it, Baby Girl?\u00a0 <\/span>Why are you crying?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked in a loving soft tone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI had a dream.\u00a0 <\/span>I want to sleep with you.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m scared,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>she cried louder.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, okay, Baby Girl.\u00a0 <\/span>Try to relax.\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy\u2019s right here.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica looked at Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>He shrugged his shoulders in defeat.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJust until she goes back to sleep,\u201d Adam said as he went into the drawer to get a pair of pajama pants.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica put her daughter in the middle of their bed and went over to the dresser to pull out a nightgown to wear and joined Adam in the bathroom. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Adam,\u201d she said with a pouted lip.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s okay, Babe,\u201d he said with a tender kiss to Jessica\u2019s lips.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cIt\u2019s part of being a parent,\u201d he smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

The two went and got in bed with their daughter in the middle.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian snuggled next to her mommy and Jessica held her close in the safety of her arms until she drifted back to sleep.\u00a0 <\/span>By the time Jillian fell asleep, Adam had realized Jessica, too, was asleep, so he turned over and went to sleep with two of his reasons for living.<\/span><\/p>\n

Chapter Eight<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

The last day of school came before spring break. \u00a0 <\/span>Jason and Brianna had one last class each to take a test, and they would be leaving for Logan Airport early the next morning and head west for spring break vacation, but their minds were more focused on Jessica\u2019s surgery and finding out if she had cancer or not. \u00a0 <\/span>Jessica had been suffering more bouts of ovarian pain and mood swings, and Adam worried if waiting ten days had been a good idea. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey Babe, how are you feeling?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked answering his private number which only was known to his executive assistant, Heather, and his wife, Jessica, and children. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJillian\u2019s appointment to get her stitches out is today, but I\u2019m not feeling well. \u00a0 <\/span>I need you to take her for me,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica replied with an exhausting tone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJess, I\u2019m concerned you\u2019ve been having so much pain lately, I really believe you shouldn\u2019t have waited for Jason to come home to have surgery.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, why do you have to constantly reprimand me about waiting?\u00a0 <\/span>I told you I wasn\u2019t having surgery until my son could be here and he couldn\u2019t be here until this weekend!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica was agitated due to the pain she had been suffering all day.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not trying to start a fight with you, Jessica, Adam\u2019s voice was controlled. \u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI\u2019m only worried about why I agreed with you to wait.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019ve been in so much pain this past week, and I\u2019m concerned for your health.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sure Jason would\u2019ve understood to not have waited before he could get home; especially if we had known your health would deteriorate as fast as it has in such a short time.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ignoring Adam\u2019s kind words Jessica continued, \u201cAdam, I called to tell you you\u2019ll need to pick up Emily and Jillian from school and take Jillian to the doctor afterward; her appointment is at 4:00 P.M.\u00a0 <\/span>Can you break yourself away from your damn company to take care of your family?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked with considerable ire in her voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam sat quietly for a moment.\u00a0 <\/span>He closed his eyes and pinched the bridge of his nose trying to bite his tongue, he knew it was the pain speaking.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHave you taken the pain meds Dr. McIntyre prescribed you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica broke down and cried due to the extreme pain.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam felt helpless.\u00a0 <\/span>He was at work instead at home comforting his wife.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJess, I can leave the office in five minutes, I’m coming home,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam advised over the cries coming through his phone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJust do as I\u2019ve asked, can you please just take care of our children and stop the recriminations?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica curtly cried, she was making no sense.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m coming home if you haven\u2019t taken your pain meds, please\u2026would you to do so now.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m hanging up, I\u2019ll be home, give me about a half hour.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica didn\u2019t hear his final words as she pulled the phone away from her ear and disconnected the call.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam hung up and called Heather.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cCan you come in, please?\u00a0 <\/span>I need to go over a few things with you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

While Adam waited for Heather to arrive, he began packing up his paperwork he would take home for the coming week since he would be off due to Jessica\u2019s surgery and the kids being home on spring break.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Adam?\u00a0 <\/span>You needed to see me?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Heather asked as she came in the door with her iPad ready to take notes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJessica\u2019s not feeling well, and I need to go home.\u00a0 <\/span>Please get a hold of Hoss and Joe, ask them to stand in for me at this afternoon\u2019s meeting with the Cutter brothers on the timber acquisition. \u00a0 <\/span>They are both up to speed on the talks, so they should be able to handle the meeting.\u00a0 <\/span>Let them know I\u2019ll be in touch with them after I take Jillian to the doctor; we should be done before the meeting is scheduled to start.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Sir, is there anything else you need me to do for you?\u00a0 <\/span>Do you have everything you need to work from home next week?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI need the files for the Augie Simpson deal.\u00a0 <\/span>Please gather up everything for me and FedEx it Saturday Delivery to the house.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll need to get up to speed for the conference call next week.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll let you know if it needs to be rescheduled once Jess has her surgery and we know what we\u2019re faced with.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure thing, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Please let Jessica know she’s in Jarrod\u2019s and my prayers.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll be eager to hear how she\u2019s doing and her prognosis after the surgery.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled at Heather and thanked her for her and her husband\u2019s prayers and concern.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica had met Heather on several occasions at different company sponsored events, and they had hit it off quite well.\u00a0 <\/span>Heather was loyal to Adam and worked long hours to make sure he was always prepared to be on top of his game for every meeting and deal.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam appreciated Heather\u2019s hard work, loyalty, and research she often did for him.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica used to argue with Adam he needed not work her so hard because she needed to have a life outside of Cartwright, Inc., but Heather would tell her she appreciated working for Adam and all he did for her over the years.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica had met Jarrod through a mutual friend and knew he would be perfect for Heather.\u00a0 <\/span>Despite the objections Adam had with Jessica interfering in Heather\u2019s personal life, Jessica set in motion to have Jarrod and Heather meet at the yearly Cartwright, Inc. holiday party a few years prior.\u00a0 <\/span>The couple hit it off and began steadily dating and after a year was married in Antigua with just their families and honor attendants present.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam arrived home to a soundless house.\u00a0 <\/span>He dropped off his briefcase in the office and walked back to the bedroom he shared with Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>He found her sound asleep on the bed resting comfortably so he went into the closet, changed into a cotton button-down shirt, jeans, loafers and left the bedroom, closing the door so any noise he might make while in his office wouldn\u2019t wake Jessica as she needed rest.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam worked from home until it was time to pick up Emily and Jillian at school.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Daddy,\u201d Emily said as she walked out of school and found her father in Jessica\u2019s SUV to pick her up instead of her mother, \u201cWhere\u2019s Mommy?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy isn\u2019t feeling well so she called me at work to come get you and to take Jillian to the doctor to get her stitches out.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy, I\u2019m worried about Mommy.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t know what I would do without her,\u201d Emily’s voice cracked at the thought of losing her mother.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPrincess, she\u2019s in good hands with Dr. McIntyre.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sure he wouldn\u2019t have allowed her to put off the surgery until Monday if he felt waiting would jeopardize Mommy\u2019s health.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI suppose you\u2019re right, Daddy, but I\u2019m scared.\u00a0 <\/span>I can\u2019t help it, I\u2019m just scared.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Princess, we\u2019re all a bit nervous, but we need to be strong for Mommy.\u00a0 <\/span>She needs us to be there for her.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah,\u201d Emily sighed looking out the passenger window.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Adam drove up to the elementary school to get Jillian, Emily jumped out and said she would go in and get her sister so Adam would not have to drive so far away to find a parking space. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI always go in and get Jillian, Daddy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

After a few minutes, Emily came out carrying Jillian\u2019s book bag and lunchbox.\u00a0 <\/span>When Jillian saw her father in the driver\u2019s seat, her eyes lit up, and her lips turned up in a large smile. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Daddy, why are you here?\u00a0 <\/span>Where\u2019s Mommy?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Sweetpea, Mommy\u2019s not feeling well today so she asked me to come and get you so we could get those stitches out of your hand.\u00a0 <\/span>How was school today?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood, my hand really itches.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m glad to get the stitches out today.\u00a0 <\/span>Daddy, are they going to give me another shot?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian\u2019s voice trembled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Peanut,\u201d Emily interjected.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cThey\u2019ll snip the strings and pull them out with some tweezers.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEm\u2019s right, Sweetpea, it won\u2019t hurt at all.\u00a0 <\/span>It shouldn\u2019t take very long either.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The girls and Adam arrived at the Tahoe Medical Group where Jillian\u2019s pediatrician\u2019s office was located.\u00a0 <\/span>They entered the office and found several people in the waiting room, some patients, some parents of patients waiting for their particular doctor to call their name.<\/span><\/p>\n

The two girls went to sit down while Adam walked up to the reception desk to sign Jillian in for her appointment.\u00a0 <\/span>While Adam was signing Jillian in, the receptionist opened the window and welcomed Adam to the office.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhich doctor are you here to see today, Sir?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>The receptionist asked as Adam completed the sign in form.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDr. Lavigne for Jillian Cartwright,\u201d Adam responded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, thank you.\u00a0 <\/span>I just need Jillian\u2019s insurance card please.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam pulled his wallet from his back pocket and handed the card to the receptionist.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour co-pay is $20 today, Mr. Cartwright,\u201d the receptionist advised as she continued to check in Jillian on her computer.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam handed the receptionist a $20 bill, and after she was done, she gave him the paperwork, and receipt and advised she would be called back shortly.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam sat down next to the girls who both had picked up magazines to read.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian chose Highlights and Emily, People Magazine.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam decided to utilize the waiting time by checking email on his iPhone. <\/span><\/p>\n

About five minutes passed, and a voice came over the speaker, \u201cJillian Cartwright to Dr. Lavigne\u2019s waiting area.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll stay here, Daddy,\u201d Emily announced without looking up from the fascinating article she was reading.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian grabbed her father\u2019s hand and led him to Dr. Lavigne\u2019s area since he’d never been to her doctor\u2019s office before. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam placed Jillian\u2019s paperwork in the box under Dr. Lavigne\u2019s nameplate, and they sat down waiting to be called one more time. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJillian?\u201d the nurse said taking her paperwork from the box.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian and Adam stood up and walked to the back where Dr. Lavigne\u2019s exam rooms were located.\u00a0 <\/span>The nurse stopped at the scale, indicating Jillian to step up so she could get her weight.\u00a0 <\/span>She led them into exam room number one where she continued her usual examination; temperature, blood pressure, pulse and noted any changes to her health record.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re here to get stitches out today, Jillian?\u00a0 <\/span>How is your hand doing?\u00a0 <\/span>Let\u2019s take the bandages off and take a look,\u201d the nurse said after she finished entering her vital signs in the laptop computer.<\/span><\/p>\n

She gently removed the ace bandage keeping the gauze clean.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian watched as the nurse removed the various layers, exposing the stitches for the first time in two weeks.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEeew!\u201d Jillian began to whimper as she saw the bloody stitches for the first time.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stood up, came to his daughter\u2019s side and rubbed her back.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cIt\u2019s okay, Jillian, your wound is all healed now.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s just dried blood from when you first cut it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t touch it!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian said pulling her hand back, \u201cIt\u2019ll hurt!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJillian, come on baby\u2026Be daddy\u2019s big girl, the nurse needs to clip the stitches so she can take them out.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019ll hurt, Daddy,\u201d Jillian started to cry.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Sweetheart, it won\u2019t hurt, I promise.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re all healed, we just need to take the stitches out now so you can start moving your hand to get it strong again.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy, no!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian cried louder.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJillian, stop crying now.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve explained what needs to happen and told you it won\u2019t hurt.\u00a0 <\/span>You were a big girl when you got the stitches put in, can\u2019t you be a big girl to get them out?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI promise, I\u2019ll be very gentle, it won\u2019t hurt at all, in fact, it\u2019ll probably tickle a little when I pull the strings out.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>The nurse patted Jillian\u2019s leg.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou promise?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian asked between whimpers.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI promise,\u201d the nurse smiled and winked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian looked at her father, her big eyes needed his encouragement.\u00a0 <\/span>At Adam\u2019s nod and smile, she gave her hand back to the nurse who gingerly clipped each of the stitches.\u00a0 <\/span>Once she finished, she took the tweezers and advised Jillian she was going to pull each of them out, and it might tickle a little bit.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you okay?\u00a0 <\/span>Does it hurt?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>The nurse asked after she started to pull the first suture out.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Ma\u2019am,\u201d Jillian said, still wearing a frown because she wasn\u2019t 100% sure it wouldn\u2019t still hurt when she pulled the others out.<\/span><\/p>\n

The nurse gently continued pulling them out one by one and Jillian giggled, \u201cThat tickles.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI told you it might tickle a little bit,\u201d the nurse smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

After the final suture was out, she looked at Jillian with a big grin and said, \u201cThere, all done, now that didn\u2019t hurt at all, did it?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian smiled and laughed as she replied in surprise, \u201cNo, it didn\u2019t!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going to wash it with medicated soap and sterile water to clean away the dried blood before Dr. Lavigne comes in to look and make sure it\u2019s healing well, okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian nodded so the nurse took her hand and placed it over a pan to catch the water. She put a small amount of soap in her hand and massaged the scar.\u00a0 <\/span>She looked up at Adam and said, \u201cYou\u2019ll want to get Vitamin E lotion to gently massage the palm of her hand for the next few weeks at least once a day, this will help keep the scarring down while it continues to heal on the inside.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>She then looked at Jillian and said, \u201cIt\u2019s imperative to let Mommy and Daddy massage the scar, okay?\u00a0 <\/span>If you don\u2019t let them the scar tissue can form, and it\u2019ll become painful, so be sure you are a big girl and let them massage your hand like I\u2019m doing right now with the soap.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, I promise,\u201d Jillian answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

After the nurse had checked Jillian\u2019s hand and all the dried blood was cleared away, she poured sterile water and washed away the soap leaving a small red line where the cut had once been. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLooks excellent.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll let Dr. Lavigne know you\u2019re ready.\u00a0 <\/span>She should be right in,\u201d she said as she removed her latex gloves, tossing them in the trash can.<\/span><\/p>\n

A few minutes passed, Dr. Lavigne knocked and entered the room.\u00a0 <\/span>She had the laptop with Jillian\u2019s information pulled up on the screen.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBeverly Lavigne,\u201d she smiled at Adam, extending her right hand to shake Adam\u2019s hand.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam Cartwright, Jillian\u2019s father.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam shook Dr. Lavigne\u2019s hand.<\/span><\/p>\n

Dr. Lavigne turned her attention to Jillian, who was sitting on the exam table.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI heard you had a nasty cut on your hand.\u00a0 <\/span>I bet it hurt when you did it, huh?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Ma\u2019am, it did.\u00a0 <\/span>I was trying to put my dishes on the kitchen counter to help Mommy and the glass slipped and broke on the floor.\u00a0 <\/span>My Daddy told me not to pick up the glass, but I didn\u2019t listen, and I cut my hand.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian frowned. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI bet you scared Mommy and Daddy when it happened,\u201d Dr. Lavigne kept talking to Jillian to distract her a little as she examined Jillian\u2019s healing wound.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy picked me up, and Mommy got a towel so I wouldn\u2019t get blood everywhere and they took me to the hospital and I didn\u2019t cry so the doctor gave me some colors, a color book, a sparkling pencil and lots of stickers!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian smiled remembering the prizes she got for being a model patient.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell I think you\u2019ve been an excellent patient again today, so when we finish here, you can go out and see Nurse Stephanie, and she\u2019ll get you some more stickers, okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian\u2019s eyes widened, and she looked up at Adam grinning from ear to ear.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you tell, Dr. Lavigne, Sweetpea?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked his youngest daughter.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Dr. Lavigne!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian started bouncing up and down happily. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan I have a hug, Jillian?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Dr. Lavigne held out her arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian gave the doctor a hug and jumped down skipping out of the exam room to the nurse\u2019s station so she could choose some stickers from the prize box.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s such a sweet patient every time she comes in.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sure Stephanie told you to get some Vitamin E cream and massage the scar for the next week or so?\u00a0 <\/span>This will help keep scarring tissue from building up as it continues to heal on the interior portion of the wound.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, she did.\u00a0 <\/span>My wife keeps a jar in the cabinet.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll see to it we do it each evening before bedtime,\u201d Adam smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOne more thing, make sure she exercises her hand by making a fist and then opening her hand all the way up,\u201d Dr. Lavigne showed Adam how to exercise Jillian\u2019s hand.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cShe should do this several times a day; this will help keep the scarring tissue from setting up as well.\u00a0 <\/span>It might be hard at first, but it\u2019s important she does this so the scar will stay flexible. As her strength builds, she can try squeezing a rubber ball, to help with building the strength in her hand.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou won\u2019t have to worry, Doctor, I\u2019ll see to it she does her exercises,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam assured the doctor.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks for bringing her in today, Mr. Cartwright, you have a fantastic weekend,\u201d Dr. Lavigne extended her hand again to shake Adam\u2019s.<\/span><\/p>\n

Dr. Lavigne walked out of the exam room on to her next patient.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian skipped back into the room with several sheets of stickers and showed them to Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>He looked at them all with great interest and told her she\u2019ll have fun playing with them when they got home.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Jillian walked out to the waiting room where Emily was still engrossed in the magazine she was reading.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian ran over to get her sister and the three Cartwrights headed for home.<\/span><\/p>\n

Shortly before 6:00 P.M. they arrived back at the house.\u00a0 <\/span>When they walked in, Jessica was awake and making dinner for the family.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Mommy!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily said as she hurried past her heading back to her room.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Jillian walked in behind Emily and Adam walked over to Jessica, who was snapping fresh green beans in the sink and gave her a kiss on her head.\u00a0 <\/span>She smiled up at him and tried to apologize, but he interrupted her saying, \u201cWe\u2019ll talk later, after the girls go to bed,\u201d and continued on back to his office to finish up the work he was in the middle of when Jessica called him in pain.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian came over to her mother to show her the scar on her hand and the stickers she had received because she had been a good patient.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was scared. \u00a0 <\/span>I thought it was going to hurt,\u201d Jillian cast her eyes downward, but looked up when she felt her father\u2019s hand upon her shoulder, and he gave her a gentle squeeze.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019re beautiful, Baby Girl, why don\u2019t you run on back to your room and play for a little bit, dinner will be ready in about half hour.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

When dinner was ready, Jessica went to tell Jillian and Emily to wash up and come to the table.\u00a0 <\/span>She stopped off at the office where Adam had closed the door to work quietly.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica knocked on the door and poked her head in where she saw Adam deep in concentration with papers scattered on the desk.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, it\u2019s dinner time, find a stopping point and come eat.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be right there, Jess, let me clean up my mess here.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll be there in a few minutes.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica had just placed the pork roast on the table when Adam came into the dining room.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSomething smells good in here,\u201d he said as he sat down at the head of the table.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica brought the carving knife and fork over to Adam, and he carved a piece of pork tenderloin for each of his girls and himself.\u00a0 <\/span>The family talked about how excited they were for Jason and Brianna\u2019s arrival the next morning and tried to keep the conversation light-hearted and not dwell on Jessica\u2019s upcoming surgery, Monday.<\/span><\/p>\n

After dinner was complete, Adam told Jessica he would take care of the dishes and to help Jillian with her bath.\u00a0 <\/span>He had explained over dinner the massaging with Vitamin E cream and exercises Dr. Lavigne prescribed for Jillian\u2019s hand.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

When the dishes were loaded in the dishwasher, Adam came to their room where he found Jillian in her pajamas, and Jessica was massaging the cream into her hand.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood thing Mommy\u2019s a nurse huh, Sweetpea?\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy\u2019s Super Mommy!\u201d Jillian grinned at her hero, after exaggerating the word super.<\/span><\/p>\n

After Jessica had finished massaging Jillian\u2019s hand, she had her do the hand exercises and told her she could read for an hour but then wanted her to get some rest because Saturday would be a busy day with her brother\u2019s arrival.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Jessica kissed their daughter, and she headed to her room for the night.<\/span><\/p>\n

After Jillian left, they went to Emily\u2019s room to wish her a good evening.\u00a0 <\/span>They both gave their eldest daughter a kiss and told her not to stay up too late.<\/span><\/p>\n

The couple retreated to the family room where Adam had two glasses of ice tea waiting.\u00a0 <\/span>He didn\u2019t want Jessica drinking even wine while taking the pain medication Dr. McIntyre had prescribed for her cramping.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once settled on the couch, Jessica turned to Adam and again trying to apologize.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam listened as Jessica try to explain her behavior earlier in the day.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI have no excuse for how I berated you on the phone at work today, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>All I can ask is forgiveness.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJess, I know the stress of not knowing if you have cancer or not has been weighing heavy on your mind.\u00a0 <\/span>I also know the pain can be intense at times, but what I don\u2019t understand is why you don\u2019t stay ahead of the pain, instead of letting it get out of control.\u00a0 <\/span>Do you even remember how you spoke to me today?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHonestly, Adam, at the point where I called you, I was in so much pain, I was almost having an out of body experience.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve never experienced pain like I had today.\u00a0 <\/span>I guess I was crying out for help more than anything.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou have a funny way of asking for help,\u201d Adam said coolly.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWhen I got home, you were sound asleep; I take it you took your pain medicine?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI had taken it shortly before I called you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI see,\u201d said Adam taking a drink of his tea.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam relaxed and took his wife into his arms.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI\u2019m not angry, Jess, I\u2019m just concerned about the stress you\u2019re enduring and the pain you\u2019ve been putting up with.\u00a0 <\/span>I know it\u2019s taking a toll on you. \u00a0 <\/span>I feel helpless to see the woman I love dealing with so much pain.\u00a0 <\/span>I keep telling myself we should have done this surgery right away, and all of this could have been avoided.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, the would\u2019ve, should\u2019ve, could\u2019ve game is not healthy either.\u00a0 <\/span>We made the decision as a couple, and we have to live with that decision.\u00a0 <\/span>When we decided to wait for Jason to come home, the pain was not as intense.\u00a0 <\/span>The severe pain has really only been this week.\u00a0 <\/span>Monday it\u2019ll all be over with, and we\u2019ll deal with the fall out after the surgery, good or bad.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked down into Jessica\u2019s blue eyes and smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cYou know, I love you more today than I think I\u2019ve ever loved you.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m amazed on a daily basis how deep our love runs.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re the most amazing wife and mother.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m truly a blessed man.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam was thankful he hadn\u2019t spitefully returned his wife\u2019s barbed words earlier in the day.<\/span><\/p>\n

Tears puddled in Jessica\u2019s eyes, but one escaped and fell down her cheek. \u201cI\u2019m the one who\u2019s blessed, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>God brought you back to me after all the torment I put you through when we were divorced.\u00a0 <\/span>I didn\u2019t deserve you back, but I\u2019m thankful every day you are.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sorry for today, please forgive me, Babe?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAll is forgiven, my beautiful bride.\u00a0 <\/span>Let\u2019s head to bed, I\u2019m exhausted.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s been a long week and next week is going to be just as busy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The couple got up from the couch and took the two glasses over to the sink at the wet bar and left them on the counter until the morning.\u00a0 <\/span>They walked arm and arm back to the bedroom they shared where they undressed and held each other until they drifted to sleep.<\/span><\/p>\n

The morning finally arrived for Jessica, Adam, and the girls to pick up Jason and Brianna from the airport.\u00a0 <\/span>The couple had planned to spend spring break in California and around Nevada so Jason could show his girl places of historical interest, but now their week\u2019s plans had changed so they could spend them closer to home since Jessica would be having major surgery.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica called as she saw her son and Brianna leaving the secured area of the terminal and coming toward them.<\/span><\/p>\n

When Jason saw his mother waving, he smiled broadly, grabbed Brianna\u2019s hand, and they hurried over to give Jessica, Adam, and the girls a hug.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMom!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason said as he hugged his mother for the first time since learning of the news about the tumor growing inside her. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you so much.\u00a0 <\/span>How are you feeling?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

Finding it hard to remain stable, Jessica buried her face into her son\u2019s broad shoulders and said, \u201cI\u2019m okay.\u00a0 <\/span>Trying to remain positive.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m better now that my baby boy is home!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason usually complained to his mother when she would call him her baby boy, but now he wanted nothing more than to be her baby boy as he pondered the thought of how sick his mother could possibly be.<\/span><\/p>\n

When she finished her long tight embrace with Jason, Jessica wiped her eyes and welcomed Brianna home with a hug as well.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy mother and father send their hugs, kisses, and prayers to you, Jessica,\u201d Brianna said as she hugged her future mother-in-law.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow sweet of them.\u00a0 <\/span>I look forward to meeting them very soon, hopefully!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said as she ended her hug with Brianna and the family headed to baggage claim to collect Jason\u2019s and Brianna\u2019s bags.<\/span><\/p>\n

The family headed back to their home in Carson City.\u00a0 <\/span>Since the day was early, Jason decided to take Brianna to Virginia City and show her the center of history during the Comstock Lode, which was discovered there in 1859.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna was so excited to finally see some old west history up close and personal. <\/span><\/p>\n

With only a few days left until Jessica\u2019s surgery, Brianna felt Jessica and Adam should have a few hours to themselves and talked to Jason about asking Emily and Jillian if they would like to enjoy the day with them in Virginia City.\u00a0 <\/span>After telling them their plan, the two girls both agreed it would be a good idea to allow their parents to have some special alone time together. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica was in the kitchen gathering food to make for lunch when all four of the children came through the kitchen.\u00a0 <\/span>Each of them gave Jessica a kiss on the cheek as they bade her a good-bye for the day.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s going on here, guys?\u00a0 <\/span>Where are you all going?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica demanded to know.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI\u2019m just getting ready to make lunch!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason was the speaker for the group, \u201cI\u2019m taking Brianna to Virginia City for the day.\u00a0 <\/span>We thought it would be fun to take Emily and Jillian with us, and they wanted to go!\u00a0 <\/span>You and Dad can enjoy the day, just the two of you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam entered the kitchen and saw the children in jeans, long sleeve T-shirts, and sneakers. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou guys going somewhere?\u201d he asked, walking up behind Jessica and putting his hands on her shoulders.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019ve all decided to spend the day in Virginia City so we can enjoy the day with each other without kids around,\u201d Jessica said with her head turned upward toward Adam\u2019s face, but her eyes cut back toward the children.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMom, Dad,\u201d Jason came over and put his arms around both his parents, \u201cwe want you to have some alone time, just the two of you before mom goes in for her surgery on Monday.\u00a0 <\/span>You don\u2019t need all of us hanging around.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna wants to see Virginia City, and she thought Emily and Jillian would enjoy going with us.\u00a0 <\/span>We asked them, they agreed, so we\u2019re going to spend the day being tourists.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll be back in time for dinner.\u00a0 <\/span>You two enjoy the day just to yourselves.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about lunch?\u00a0 <\/span>None of you have eaten anything today!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica complained.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll get something in town, Mommy!\u00a0 <\/span>Jason\u2019s treat!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily grinned.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam pulled his black American Express from his wallet and handed it to Jason. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTake this, the day is a treat from Mom and me.\u00a0 <\/span>Lunch, tours, everything.\u00a0 <\/span>Go have fun.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The four children came over, hugged and kissed Adam for his generosity.\u00a0 <\/span>They all hopped in Jason\u2019s Rav4 and headed toward Virginia City.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once they arrived and found a place to park, they headed to the local tourist office to get a map of the area and information on things to do while they were there.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily and Jillian felt it should be Brianna\u2019s choice on what she would like to see and do since it was her first time in the area and it was her idea to have them come along for the day.<\/span><\/p>\n

As they were looking at the map and the different tours, Brianna spotted the Virginia and Truckee Railroad trip.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLook at this, Jason!\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s a thirty-five-minute train ride through the heart of the historic Comstock mining region.\u00a0 <\/span>It sounds like a great place to start.\u00a0 <\/span>Why don\u2019t we do this and then we can maybe take some mine tours afterward?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna suggested.<\/span><\/p>\n

Everyone agreed they thought the train ride would be fun for Brianna, and she would enjoy it immensely. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love the train ride, Brianna!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily said.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cThe conductor gives a narration of the old history, and the scenery is amazing!\u00a0 <\/span>If we\u2019re lucky, we might see some wild horses!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, we\u2019ll go through an old tunnel dug out of the mountains for the railroad, we\u2019ll see Gold Hill and spectacular views of the mountains as well,\u201d Jason added.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once the train ride was over, Jason and Emily thought Brianna and Jillian would enjoy the Chollar Mine tour. <\/span><\/p>\n

As they walked to the tour\u2019s entrance, Jason explained the history of the Chollar Mine to Brianna and Jillian.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was first discovered in 1859.\u00a0 <\/span>This mine once produced both gold and silver ore.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll go about four hundred feet into the actual mine and walk around seeing how the men back in 1859 coaxed the ore out of the mine\u2019s veins.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily added, \u201cYou\u2019ll also see the mine\u2019s support structures and see the tools they used, and the guide will tell us interesting facts on how the Virginia City miners lived and died.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis is so surreal for me!\u00a0 <\/span>I can\u2019t believe I\u2019m here, experiencing all of this history I\u2019ve only read about in history books!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna said as she wrapped her arms around Jason as the quartet walked to the Chollar mine, soaking up the sights and sounds of Virginia City.<\/span><\/p>\n

After the mine tour, Jason led the girls to the Silver Terrace Cemetery.\u00a0 <\/span>As they stood overlooking this historical site, Jason gave a brief history lesson about the cemetery\u2019s first burial in 1860.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEleven of the thirty-one cemeteries are located here.\u00a0 <\/span>They include the Masons, Oddfellows, Firemen, and Catholics.\u00a0 <\/span>In the mid 1800\u2019s, the people would come here for quiet contemplation.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As they arrived, the four quietly and reverently looked around at the headstones which remained. They marveled at the vast range of dates on the tombstones as well as the ornate fence surrounding the cemetery and the hand carved headstones. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBoth the very rich and the poorest of poor were buried here,\u201d Jason added quietly as they looked at the different headstones.<\/span><\/p>\n

After the trip to the cemetery, Jason kept what he felt Brianna would enjoy the most to the end; the Fourth Ward School Museum.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis is a history buff\u2019s dream!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily commented as they walked in and Jason paid for him, Brianna\u2019s, and Emily\u2019s admission fees; Jillian was admitted for free since she was under twelve years of age.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis school house was built in the late 1800\u2019s,\u201d Jason began his historical tour.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cIt was constructed so the Comstock children could have a \u2018modern\u2019 building to get their education.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason, Brianna, Emily, and Jillian walked around and checked out some of the original old furnishings and blackboards that remained.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Jason suspected, Brianna enjoyed the Fourth Ward School Museum the most. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI would love to take my students here someday when I\u2019m teaching history in one of the schools when I become Mrs. Jason Cartwright,\u201d Brianna said as she shared a quick hug and kiss with her man.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t wait for the day when you take my name, Brianna,\u201d Jason replied kissing his woman\u2019s lips tenderly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh good grief, Jillian.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason and Brianna are Mommy and Daddy, part two!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily laughed with her sister as Emily leaned down on her sister\u2019s shoulders. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou just wait, sister, when you have a boyfriend whom you love with all your heart. You\u2019ll find yourself being just like Mom and Dad, Brianna and I, too!\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll remind you of this day with great joy,\u201d Jason laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI look forward to the day both you girls can experience the same wonderful relationship Jason and I share,\u201d Brianna said as she looked into Jason\u2019s eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome on, let\u2019s go get something to drink at the Bucket of Blood Saloon.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

As they approached the Bucket of Blood Saloon, Jason explained, \u201cThis historic saloon used to be one of the most well-known watering holes in Virginia City.\u00a0 <\/span>They have a vast collection of elaborate antique hanging lamps and slot machines.\u00a0 <\/span>Let\u2019s go in and enjoy a sarsaparilla and listen to the live Ragtime Band and Tin Pan Alley quartet, while we put back a drink or two just like the miners used to do back in the day!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The four enjoyed a couple of drinks as they listened to the music and watched other tourists enjoying themselves in the saloon.\u00a0 <\/span>After their drinks and Bucket of Blood t-shirt purchases, Jason took Brianna to a jewelry gift shop and bought her earrings and then they headed to another gift shop where he purchased her a Virginia City T-shirt as a souvenir of her first trip to the historic town.<\/span><\/p>\n

When they returned home, they found Jessica curled up in Adam\u2019s arms in the family room as they watched a movie on the DVD player.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid you guys have a fun time?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Adam, your son was an excellent tour guide!\u00a0 <\/span>I was in Heaven!\u00a0 <\/span>Virginia City is any history buff\u2019s dream escape!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe took a ride on a train, Mommy!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian said with a great exuberance in her voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou did, Baby Girl?\u00a0 <\/span>Did you enjoy your day?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked with a big smile on her face with her head still resting on Adam\u2019s chest.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian nodded her head quickly up and down showing her excitement to be included with her older siblings outing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I don\u2019t know about the rest of you, but I\u2019m starving!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam said as he got up and took his credit card back from Jason, who also handed him the receipts from all the purchases he had made during the day.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI thought we might check out the new Mott Canyon Tavern and Grill.\u00a0 <\/span>They built one in Carson City,\u201d Adam suggested.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBrie, Mott Canyon Tavern, and Grill has great food!\u00a0 <\/span>They have a location up at Lake Tahoe as well, but they\u2019ve recently opened one in Carson City.\u00a0 <\/span>Good idea, Dad!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason said as he patted his father on his back.<\/span><\/p>\n

Everyone climbed into Jessica\u2019s Lexus SUV as they headed to the tavern and grill for a fun evening of eating, talking about the day, and the plans for the remainder of the week.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

The alarm went off at 4:30 A.M. and Adam turned over to wake Jessica up but found her side of the bed empty.\u00a0 <\/span>He searched for her in the bathroom and didn\u2019t find her there either.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam put on a pair of jeans and headed toward the kitchen, still no sign of his wife.\u00a0 <\/span>He noticed a few candles lit in the three seasons room.\u00a0 <\/span>He walked quietly to the entrance and found Jessica standing at the floor to ceiling glass windows staring out into the vast backyard. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJess,\u201d Adam whispered as he came behind her and put his hands on his wife\u2019s shoulders, \u201cpenny for your thoughts?\u201d he asked as he kissed the side of Jessica\u2019s head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m scared, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>I’m not afraid of losing my ability to have children.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ve both agreed it\u2019s best to be pro-active and have the complete hysterectomy while I\u2019m already under, I\u2019m just afraid of finding out I have cancer.\u00a0 <\/span>Ovarian cancer is so deadly, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>I can\u2019t imagine leaving you, Jason, and the girls alone.\u00a0 <\/span>I can\u2019t imagine not seeing my children fall in love, get married, and have families of their own,\u201d Jessica said as tears rolled down her cheeks.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam wiped the flowing tears away.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI\u2019m keeping positive thoughts, Jess.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t want to think about cancer unless Dr. McIntyre comes out and tells us this is what we\u2019re facing.\u00a0 <\/span>I want you to try to think the same positive thoughts.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica jerked away from Adam and placed her mug on the table next to the loveseat. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s easy for you to think that way, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re not the one faced with the possibility of having cancer!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica started to cry.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t think I\u2019m just as scared as you are, Jess?\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m scared half to death of losing you!\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m afraid of our kids losing their mother!\u00a0 <\/span>Yes, I can\u2019t imagine how you must be feeling; I wouldn\u2019t even begin to try, but know whatever happens today, my love will not waiver.\u00a0 <\/span>The love our kids have for you will not change.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019re in this as a family, and we will fight this disease as a family.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica turned to Adam and fell onto his chest sobbing. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHold me.\u00a0 <\/span>Don\u2019t ever let me go!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam buried his head into Jessica\u2019s shoulders trying to remain strong.\u00a0 <\/span>His resolve was weakening as the hour grew closer for the surgery to begin. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI promised you over ten years ago for the second time I would love you and never forsake you until we were parted by death.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t plan to break that promise now or anytime soon.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam walked Jessica back to their room in his arms, and the two took a shower together.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica washed with the special soap she had been given at her pre-op visit to the hospital the previous week. <\/span><\/p>\n

The rest of the family woke up, got dressed, and they all headed to the hospital and checked in at the surgery waiting room.<\/span><\/p>\n

They had not been waiting long when Jessica\u2019s name was called.\u00a0 <\/span>They all headed back to the Day Surgery pre-op room where Jessica would wait to be taken to the operating room.\u00a0 <\/span>Even though she was having inpatient surgery, all patients both inpatient and outpatients started in the outpatient surgery ward. <\/span><\/p>\n

When the outpatient nurse came in to go over the pre-surgery questions and have Jessica change into a hospital gown, she asked everyone except Adam to leave the room.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason, Brianna, and the girls stepped outside and waited while Jessica changed into her gown, and her IV was started.\u00a0 <\/span>The nurse went over the procedure with Jessica and Adam she also had Jessica sign the consent form for a complete hysterectomy even if the tumor was found to be benign. <\/span><\/p>\n

Once the pre-op questions and paperwork were in order, the children were allowed back in the room until it was time to take Jessica back to surgery.<\/span><\/p>\n

After about a half hour, Dr. McIntyre came in dressed in his blue scrubs and looked over Jessica\u2019s chart to make sure everything was in order.\u00a0 <\/span>He again explained the procedure to everyone, making eye contact with each member of the family.\u00a0 <\/span>He told them the procedure would take approximately two hours.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll remove the tumor first so it can be sent to pathology while I\u2019m completing the hysterectomy.\u00a0 <\/span>I think you\u2019ve made a wise decision in going ahead and removing everything.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s really the best plan of action, but I leave it up to each patient when the tumor is benign.\u00a0 <\/span>I should have the lab results by the time we take you to recovery, Jessica.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Dr. McIntyre placed his hand on her arm as he asked her a very personal question. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you want me to give you results of the test before we call Adam back to recovery or do you want me to wait for your husband to arrive?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI would like for Adam to be present when you give me the news; good or bad,\u201d Jessica requested. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, once you\u2019re out of surgery and in recovery, I\u2019ll come and let you all know how the surgery went.\u00a0 <\/span>When Jessica is stabilized, and her pain is managed, Adam, you\u2019ll be the only one allowed back.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll meet you there and give you the results from the lab.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Dr. McIntyre winked at Jessica and smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI\u2019ll see you in a little bit.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Shortly after Dr. McIntyre left to scrub for surgery, a curly-haired young doctor came into the room dressed in scrubs and two injections in his pocket as well as a small bag of liquid antibiotics.\u00a0 <\/span>He introduced himself as Dr. Gates and advised he would be Jessica\u2019s anesthesiologist for the surgery.\u00a0 <\/span>Dr. Gates added the bag of medicine and explained they were used in all operations to help keep the risk of infection down.\u00a0 <\/span>He explained he had a cocktail of two injections he would be administering through her IV in the room.\u00a0 <\/span>The first one was to relax Jessica and the other one he affectionately called the giggle juice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll give you half here in the room.\u00a0 <\/span>You won\u2019t have a care in the world once it hits your blood stream.\u00a0 <\/span>At this point, all your family will be able to give you kisses and hugs, and we\u2019ll take you to surgery.\u00a0 <\/span>Just before we enter the surgery suite, I\u2019ll give you the rest of the giggle juice, and you\u2019ll probably just close your eyes because you really won\u2019t care about anything at that point. We\u2019ll get you on the table, I\u2019ll hook you up to the monitors, and I\u2019ll put you to sleep at that point. When you wake up, you\u2019ll be in the recovery room.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Dr. Gates administered the first injection and immediately, the family saw Jessica\u2019s body relax. Jason lifted Jillian up so she could kiss and hug her mommy.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily was next and with tears in her eyes, she told her mother she loved her with all her heart and gave her a kiss on her lips.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica reached up and stroked her cheek.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going to be just fine, Sweetheart.\u00a0 <\/span>Don\u2019t worry, okay?\u00a0 <\/span>I love you,\u201d she said in a groggy tone.<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna was next, and she kissed Jessica on the cheek and told her she would be praying for her throughout her surgery and that she loved her very much.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica smiled and thanked her for the prayers and told her she loved her, too.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason bent down and hugged his mother and kissed her on the lips.\u00a0 <\/span>He remained strong, but Jessica could see the worry in his eyes. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, my baby boy.\u00a0 <\/span>Be strong for Brie, Emily, and Jillian, okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI will, Mom.\u00a0 <\/span>I love you,\u201d Jason choked as he fought back the tears trying to escape his eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

The rest of the kids stepped outside to give their father a private moment alone with his wife.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re going to be fine, Jess.\u00a0 <\/span>I feel it in my heart,\u201d Adam said as his eyes filled with salty tears.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m keeping you to that promise, My Love!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said as her eyes grew heavy.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam gave his wife a tender kiss and stroked her cheek as Dr. Gates gave her half a syringe full of the second medication which made Jessica very drowsy and she did she care about anything from that point on.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam held Jessica\u2019s hand as the orderlies from surgery came to take Jessica\u2019s gurney toward the surgery suites. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t I feel any different?\u201d she asked Dr. Gates, not knowing the drugs had already taken effect.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGive it just a minute, it\u2019ll kick in, I promise,\u201d he smiled down at her as he guided the gurney from the opposite side of Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

Just as Jessica\u2019s gurney came out of the room and by the kids, she started to laugh. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh! now I feel like I\u2019ve had several shots of Don Julio!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica\u2019s voice was slurring, and her eyes were rolling up in her head as she tried to keep her eyes open. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBye, kids,\u201d her voice was slurred.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled as he held his wife\u2019s hand all the way to the double doors which only allowed surgery personnel beyond them. <\/span><\/p>\n

Just before they pressed the button to go through, Dr. Gates told Adam to give Jessica another kiss as he administered the last half of the giggle juice.\u00a0 <\/span>Immediately, Jessica was in a twilight sleep as her voice trailed off, \u201cI love….\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll take good care of her,\u201d Dr. Gates winked at Adam, and they continued on through the doors.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam waited until he could not see the team with his wife anymore.\u00a0 <\/span>He turned back and met the kids in the hall.\u00a0 <\/span>They went back out into the waiting area to wait out the anxious two to three hours while the surgery was performed.<\/span><\/p>\n

After the surgery was completed and Jessica was on her way back to the recovery room, Dr. McIntyre came out to let Adam and the family know the surgery went well, and Jessica was headed to recovery.\u00a0 <\/span>His face did not show good or bad news.\u00a0 <\/span>He explained there were no complications, and he suspected she would have a three to four-day stay in the hospital.\u00a0 <\/span>Once she was able to manage her pain on her own with oral medication, she would be able to go home.\u00a0 <\/span>The family was relieved.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen will I be able to see her?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked anxiously.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019re getting her settled now.\u00a0 <\/span>We gave her some pain medication before we put her back in the inpatient bed.\u00a0 <\/span>The recovery nurse will wake her up, get her hooked up to an IV pain pump.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll wait until she\u2019s a little more coherent, probably tomorrow morning, to show her how to use it.\u00a0 <\/span>For right now, the nurses will keep an eye on her and administer it based on their observations.\u00a0 <\/span>Regardless, once she\u2019s stable, you\u2019ll be called back, and I\u2019ll meet you there and give you the results of the lab test on the tumor.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Dr. McIntyre patted Adam on the arm and headed back to recovery where he found the nurses fitting on an oxygen mask and waking Jessica up.\u00a0 <\/span>Her eyes started to open, and she saw Dr. McIntyre smiling down on her. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSurgery\u2019s over, young lady.\u00a0 <\/span>When the nurse gets your pain pump hooked up, we\u2019ll call Adam back, okay?\u00a0 <\/span>Everything went well; no complications.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo I have cancer?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica mumbled through her oxygen mask.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s wait for Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>This is what you told me you wanted to do before surgery.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Dr. McIntyre winked at Jessica, patted her on the shoulder, took a quick look at the monitor showing her constant vitals and walked away so the nurses could continue to tend to their patient.<\/span><\/p>\n

After what seemed like forever to Adam, but was only about twenty minutes, the volunteer at the desk called out, \u201cAdam Cartwright?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam got up and went to the volunteer at the desk.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m Adam Cartwright,\u201d he acknowledged.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDr. McIntyre is ready to see you in recovery with your wife.\u00a0 <\/span>Follow me, please.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam followed the elderly volunteer back through the recovery room.\u00a0 <\/span>They passed by several beds of patients at different intervals of post-op recovery.\u00a0 <\/span>Once they arrived at Jessica\u2019s bed, the nurse pulled the curtain completely around her bed to give Dr. McIntyre, Jessica, and Adam privacy.<\/span><\/p>\n

Dr. McIntyre was writing orders in Jessica\u2019s chart when Adam arrived. <\/span><\/p>\n

When Jessica saw Adam, she weakly reached out her hand, and he grabbed it giving her a kiss and whispering, \u201cI love you,\u201d in her ear.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam held Jessica\u2019s hand firmly as Dr. McIntyre finished his notes in Jessica\u2019s chart.\u00a0 <\/span>He closed the chart and looked at both of them with a blank stare.\u00a0 <\/span>He then smiled from ear to ear and said, \u201cThe tumor was benign, there\u2019s no cancer.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam felt his knees buckle at the good news.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica, still groggy from her anesthesia, said, \u201cI\u2019m not going to die?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot for a very long time, if I have anything to say about it,\u201d Dr. McIntyre came over and squeezed her shoulder.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you so much, Dr. McIntyre.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve got four anxious kids who will be elated to hear the great news.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll give you two a few moments together, but please keep it brief.\u00a0 <\/span>She needs to rest.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Dr. McIntyre left to get ready for his next surgery leaving Adam and Jessica alone with the recovery nurse who was noting her latest set of vitals in her chart. <\/span><\/p>\n

Still groggy, Jessica said, \u201cMy throat hurts…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s from the breathing tube, Hon.\u00a0 <\/span>Here, have some ice chips,\u201d offered the nurse. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know you won\u2019t be able to remember much, but I\u2019ll be around frequently through the rest of your stay in recovery, and once you\u2019re in your own room, you\u2019ll have another nurse.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll administer your pain meds, at least until you can remember what we tell you. The nurse stated as she watched her patient let the ice chips melt in her mouth.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo what the nurse tells you to do, okay?\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m going to leave you now so you can rest.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll see you when you are settled in your room.\u00a0 <\/span>I love you, Babe.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLove you, too, Adam,\u201d Jessica said with a whisper as she trailed back off to sleep.\u00a0 <\/span>The nurse had pressed the button to administer more pain medication.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam laid her hand back in her bed.\u00a0 <\/span>He wiped away a rogue tear and then found his way back to the waiting room.\u00a0 <\/span>When the kids saw him come out, they all rushed to him to ask the verdict of the lab results on the tumor.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s benign!\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy doesn\u2019t have cancer!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam said as he hugged Emily and Jillian.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason hugged Brianna. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad, this is fantastic news!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason said as he and Brianna both hugged him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I\u2019m so thankful for this wonderful news.\u00a0 <\/span>Will you excuse me for a moment while I go call my parents and let them know?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, Brie!\u00a0 <\/span>Please do share this with them.\u00a0 <\/span>Thank them for their prayers from me as well.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll come with you.\u00a0 <\/span>I want to be there when you give them the good news, Brie!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason said.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason and Brianna walked over to the window looking out into the courtyard of the hospital.\u00a0 <\/span>It was a bright late morning, and the temperature was warming up beautifully, and many of the nurses, doctors, and hospital staff were gathering outside enjoying their breaks at the tables situated around the courtyard.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam took his two girls into his arms and held them tight as they cried tears of joy.<\/span><\/p>\n

When Brianna and Jason came back, Adam asked them to wait while he went and checked with the nurse to see how long it would be before Jessica was put in her room. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt will probably be another few hours.\u00a0 <\/span>If you would like to go get a bite to eat somewhere, we should have her room number by the time you get back.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

After Adam came back to the kids and gave them the news,\u00a0 <\/span>he asked the kids if they were hungry, and they all agreed they could eat something now knowing Jessica was out of danger. <\/span><\/p>\n

Upon arriving at the Red Roof Diner, they were promptly shown to a table and after a few minutes indicated they were ready to place their orders. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBrie and I decided we would like to take the girls with us on all our outings this week, Dad, so you can spend your time with Mom and give your focus to her.\u00a0 <\/span>The girls are up for all the things we have planned, and we\u2019ll come back in time to see Mom, and then we can all have dinner together.\u00a0 <\/span>Is that okay with you?\u00a0 <\/span>We just feel you need to put all your focus into Mom and not worry about the girls,\u201d Jason explained.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled as he looked at his two daughters, \u201cAre you two okay hanging with older brother and Brie this week?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah,\u201d Emily spoke up for herself and Jillian.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWe talked about it when we were in Virginia City on Saturday.\u00a0 <\/span>We feel you need to spend your time with Mommy and not be worried about us.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you have planned?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked as he drank his coffee the waitress had delivered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBefore Mom got sick, we had planned to go to California to visit some of the sites from the California Gold Rush, and even take a day trip to Bodie.\u00a0 <\/span>Now, we\u2019re just going to go up and see Poppy, maybe take a ride on the Ponderosa, take the boat to Lake Tahoe, if it\u2019s okay with you, and just stick around close to home, but stay out of your hair and give Mom the chance to rest.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, you can take the boat out on the lake.\u00a0 <\/span>Just be careful and everyone must wear their life jackets at all times.\u00a0 <\/span>I can meet you back at the hospital each day; you can visit with Mom, and then we’ll all have dinner afterward.\u00a0 <\/span>Take Mom\u2019s car the day you decide to take the boat to the lake, Son.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, probably would be best.\u00a0 <\/span>You think Poppy would want to visit Mommy while she\u2019s in the hospital, Daddy?\u201d Emily asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf he\u2019s feeling up to it, I\u2019m sure he would.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve already talked to him about coming, and he said if Mommy is up to a visit, he\u2019d like to come down and see her.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSpeaking of \u2018Poppy\u2019 I think I\u2019d best make a few phone calls.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam excused himself for a brief moment to call Jessica\u2019s mother and Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam called his mother-in-law first to give the great news about Jessica\u2019s surgery. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHello,\u201d Jessica\u2019s mother answered the phone, anxiously waiting to hear from Adam about her daughter\u2019s surgery.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMom, it\u2019s Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica\u2019s out of surgery; the tumor was benign.\u00a0 <\/span>Dr. McIntyre performed a complete hysterectomy; we decided it was best for Jess\u2019 health to remove everything while she was under.\u201d Adam sighed as he delivered the news to his beloved mother-in-law. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam heard his mother-in-law\u2019s quiet cry on the other end as he gave her the wonderful news about her only daughter.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Adam, this is excellent news!\u00a0 <\/span>Thank you so much for calling.\u00a0 <\/span>I prayed you would have good news.\u00a0 <\/span>Please give my daughter a kiss and hug for me.\u00a0 <\/span>Let her know I\u2019ll call her in a few days when she\u2019s feeling better.\u00a0 <\/span>Please keep me informed of her progress please.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI will, Mom.\u00a0 <\/span>We love you.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam said, trying to hold back tears of his own.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, too, goodbye.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam hung up with his mother-in-law and dialed his father to give him the news about Jessica.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCartwright Residence, Hop Sing speaking.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Hop Sing, it\u2019s Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Is my father back from his morning swim?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Mr. Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>He just arrived.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll get him for you.\u00a0 <\/span>He\u2019s anxiously awaiting your call today.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hop Sing went to Ben\u2019s office where he was reading over reports from the ranch hands they had given him on needed repairs and the new livestock being born.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam?\u00a0 <\/span>How\u2019s my daughter doing?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Ben\u2019s voice boomed over the phone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s cancer free, Dad.\u00a0 <\/span>The tumor\u2019s benign.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, this is fantastic news!\u00a0 <\/span>Thank you for calling me.\u00a0 <\/span>Have you called your brothers yet?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, they\u2019re in meetings most of the day.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll send them a text message shortly to let them know.\u00a0 <\/span>I know they\u2019re anxious to know, too.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam was still trying to wrap his mind around the good news and remember everything he needed to discuss with his father.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cDad, Jason, Brie, and the girls want to come up to the Ponderosa this week to see you, ride horses, and take the boat out on the lake.\u00a0 <\/span>If you\u2019re feeling up to it, Jason can drive you down to Carson City to see Jessica, and I can take you home afterward if you like.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s going to be in the hospital most of the week.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTell the kids I would love to visit with them and of course, the Ponderosa is always open for them to come and visit.\u00a0 <\/span>I want to make sure my daughter is up to having visitors before I come down.\u00a0 <\/span>We can take it day by day.\u00a0 <\/span>Either way, I\u2019ll send flowers.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019ll like that, Dad, thanks.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve got two dozen red roses scheduled to be delivered this afternoon myself.\u00a0 <\/span>I think Jason told me he and Brie had some coming as well.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSounds like she\u2019s going to be able to open her own florist shop!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Ben smiled and laughed. \u201cKeep me informed daily if you don\u2019t mind on how she\u2019s feeling and when she\u2019s up to it, I\u2019ll make the trip down to see her.\u00a0 <\/span>Please give her my love and a big kiss, will you, Son?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, Dad.\u00a0 <\/span>I know she\u2019ll be happy to know you want to come and see her.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

After Adam had hung up the phone with his father, he headed back to his clan and ate the breakfast the waitress had just delivered to their table<\/span><\/p>\n

With breakfast eaten and the bill paid, the family returned back to the hospital, Adam went to the reception desk at the entrance of the hospital to check for Jessica\u2019s room assignment. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHello, can you tell me if Jessica Cartwright has been assigned a room yet?\u00a0 <\/span>She just had surgery this morning,\u201d Adam inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet me look here….Yes, here she is.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s in room 817.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The clerk gave directions to the elevator.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam and the children went to the eighth floor and found Jessica\u2019s room.\u00a0 <\/span>As they arrived, the nurse was coming out and advised Jessica was resting comfortably, and they could go in to see her.<\/span><\/p>\n

The five walked in and saw Jessica had her eyes closed, but when she heard the door open, she opened them slightly and smiled when she saw Adam, her children, and Brianna walk in.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, Babe, how are you feeling?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked as he took her hand she had raised up, and he gave her a light kiss on her lips.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m doing okay right now.\u00a0 <\/span>Not in a whole lot of pain.\u00a0 <\/span>The pain meds they\u2019ve put in this pump are powerful.\u00a0 <\/span>They make me very sleepy, however.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad gave us the great news, Mom.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019re so happy you\u2019re okay,\u201d Jason said as he stood next to his father.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJessica, my mom, and dad send their love and prayers to you.\u00a0 <\/span>They were very pleased to hear the good news,\u201d Brianna spoke next.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Brie.\u00a0 <\/span>Please extend my gratitude to your parents for their prayers.\u00a0 <\/span>I do appreciate it very much,\u201d Jessica turned her head as the medicine caused her words to slur.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think we should probably go for now.\u00a0 <\/span>You need to rest.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam bent down and gave his wife another gentle kiss on the lips.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI\u2019ll be back tonight before Dr. McIntyre comes in to see you,\u201d Adam whispered in her ear.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, I love you, Babe,\u201d Jessica\u2019s words were weak and slurred.<\/span><\/p>\n

Each of the kids kissed Jessica on the cheek and told her they loved her and walked toward the door.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam gave her one more kiss and brushed her hair off her face and made sure her blankets were up over her.\u00a0 <\/span>He was pleased to see the clicker to her pump was close at hand. Evidently the nurses were confident she was lucid enough to understand their instructions on how to self-administer to manage her pain.<\/span><\/p>\n

As they headed toward the exit of the ward, Adam stopped to talk with the head nurse.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan you tell me what time Dr. McIntyre will be back to see Jessica Cartwright this evening? I\u2019m her husband, and I would like to make sure I\u2019m here when he arrives.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe usually makes his rounds with his morning surgery patients in the late afternoon before he leaves for the day, usually around 6:00 P.M.\u00a0 <\/span>I would be here around 5:00 P.M. just to make sure you don\u2019t miss him,\u201d the nurse explained.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks.\u00a0 <\/span>Please give me a call if my wife needs me for anything.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam handed her one of his business cards with his cell phone number listed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, Mr. Cartwright, we will.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sure she\u2019s going to be sleeping most of the day.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

On the way home, Adam advised he would return to the hospital later to hear what Dr. McIntyre had to say, but the children could go about enjoying their spring break vacation.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be happy to make dinner for everyone tonight, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>I can keep your plate warm in the oven until you get home from the hospital if you like,\u201d Brianna offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBrie, that would be wonderful, thank you,\u201d Adam smiled as he looked at her via the rearview mirror.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason, sitting in the front seat, smiled as he looked at his father, proud of his girl becoming more a part of the family.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam winked at his son as his sign of approval.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy, can I ask Diana to come down to our house and play Barbies?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure, Sweetpea.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m planning on doing some work at home today.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf you want, Peanut, we can all play some games, if you get tired of playing Barbies\u201d Jason offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe never gets tired of playing with Barbies,\u201d Emily ruffled her younger sister\u2019s hair.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI wanna play Sorry!\u00a0<\/i><\/b>and beat you, Emmy!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian announced.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, you are so on, Peanut!\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll get you this time, however.\u00a0 <\/span>Hey, maybe we could play teams?\u201d Emily asked looking at Jason and then Brianna.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSounds good to me!\u00a0 <\/span>I haven\u2019t played Sorry!\u00a0<\/i><\/b>in a long time.\u00a0 <\/span>I think it would be fun.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason can play with you, and I\u2019ll play with Jillian.\u00a0 <\/span>I want to be on the winning team!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI knew I liked you, Brie!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ve just dealt a dying hand, Sweetheart.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily and I will cream you, girls!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason said as he and his sister gave a high five to each other.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam laughed at the gaming banter going on between his three children and Brianna. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened to Diana, Sweetpea?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can play Barbies anytime.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve got to beat Emily and Jason at Sorry!\u00a0<\/i><\/b>first!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam pulled into the garage, and everyone piled out of the Lexus SUV.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason, Brianna, Emily, and Jillian all headed to the family room where the card table, chairs, and games were kept.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason and Brianna set up the table while Emily and Jillian went into the kitchen to get snacks and lemonade for everyone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you want to play, Daddy?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily asked her father as he came in the house after sitting in the SUV for a few minutes sending a quick email to his administrative assistant, Heather.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Princess, you guys have a fun time.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll be in the office if you need anything from me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam could hear cheers and jeers coming from the family room all afternoon as the children played Sorry!\u00a0<\/i><\/b>and other fun games they had.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam set the alarm on his phone to go off at 4:15 P.M.\u00a0 <\/span>to wrap up his work in time to leave for the hospital.\u00a0 <\/span>He headed to the den to let the children know he was leaving.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be back later tonight.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m going to stay with Mom for a while after Dr. McIntyre comes by.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason, Emily, help Brianna with dinner.\u00a0 <\/span>Make sure she has everything she needs.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam pulled his black American Express from his wallet and handed it to Jason. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf you need to go to the grocery store, use this to buy whatever you need.\u00a0 <\/span>Call me if you need anything otherwise, I\u2019ll see you later tonight.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam left the house and headed to the hospital.<\/span><\/p>\n

Upon his arrival, Adam walked into Jessica\u2019s room and found a nurse was there helping Jessica sit up so she could have the liquid diet prescribed for the day.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Honey!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said as Adam walked in the room.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cMichelle, this is my husband, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam, this is one of my nurses, Michelle.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Michelle and Adam exchanged hellos and Michelle gave Adam a quick run down on Jessica\u2019s progress throughout the day and what to expect for the next several days.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDr. McIntyre should be coming in shortly to see Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>He\u2019ll check her incision, and he\u2019ll most likely order to have her catheter removed tomorrow morning and have her getting out of bed and walking as well as sitting in a chair.\u00a0 <\/span>When we can get her out of bed, we\u2019ll be able to remove the leg pumps on her legs as well, they keeping the circulation moving while she remains in bed.\u00a0 <\/span>This helps cut down on the threat of deep vein thrombosis or worse, pulmonary embolisms.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks for the information.\u00a0 <\/span>Do you know what time Dr. McIntyre will be here?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Michelle looked at her watch and said, \u201cHe should be arriving anytime within the next hour.\u00a0 <\/span>He\u2019s usually making rounds about 5:30 P.M.-6:00 P.M. on surgery days.\u00a0 <\/span>On non-surgery days, he comes first thing in the morning.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll leave you to visit with your husband, Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>If you need anything, please give me a call by pressing the nurse\u2019s button, okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Michelle.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

After Michelle had left, Adam came over and gave his wife a kiss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou look more alert, and your color is back.\u00a0 <\/span>You don\u2019t seem to be in too much pain.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m feeling pretty good.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve been sleeping all day.\u00a0 <\/span>The only times I woke up was when the nurses would come in to check my vitals or to see how I was doing.\u00a0 <\/span>I try not to move because when I do…\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica\u2019s face turned sour, \u201cthe pain is horrendous at times; even with the pain pump.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam was filling Jessica in on the day\u2019s happenings back at home when Dr. McIntyre walked in with Jessica\u2019s chart.\u00a0 <\/span>He walked over to her bed and smiled down at her after shaking Adam\u2019s hand.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow are you feeling tonight?\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot terrible, but I try not to move until I just can\u2019t stand it anymore and then I brace myself for pain when I do.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe nurses indicated you\u2019re in charge of administering your own pain meds.\u00a0 <\/span>With you being a former nurse, you know you can\u2019t give yourself an overdose.\u00a0 <\/span>The system won\u2019t allow you to give more than the programmed dose I\u2019ve prescribed for you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI give myself what I feel I need to keep me comfortable.\u00a0 <\/span>I have a high tolerance for pain.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJess, if the doctor tells you to give yourself the meds, I want you to make sure you are giving yourself plenty so you won\u2019t hurt so much when you move,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam ordered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam\u2019s right, Jess.\u00a0 <\/span>The meds are there for you to use.\u00a0 <\/span>If you run out, the nurse will put a new dosage in.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Dr. McIntyre said.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cBesides, you can\u2019t rest comfortably if you\u2019re trying to keep still to prevent yourself from hurting when you need to move to get comfortable otherwise.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay!\u00a0 <\/span>Okay!\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll make sure I\u2019m pressing this darn thing every five minutes.\u00a0 <\/span>Are you two happy?\u201d Jessica said with frustration at the two men ganging up on her.<\/span><\/p>\n

Dr. McIntyre smiled and patted her arm.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cYou do what you feel is comfortable for you, but by the dosage meter here, you haven\u2019t given yourself even half of what is allowed, so make sure you give yourself more because it will help with the pain, you’ll need it tomorrow when you get out of bed and start walking.\u00a0 <\/span>Have you coughed for the nurse yet?<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUh, yeah.\u00a0 <\/span>I think they’re torturing me with the damn coughing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Dr. McIntyre laughed.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI\u2019m sorry, I don\u2019t mean to laugh at your pain, Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>I get the same reaction from all my patients.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s to help keep her lungs clear of fluid.”\u00a0 <\/span>he explained to Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>I know it\u2019s very painful, but it\u2019s necessary,”\u00a0 <\/span>he turned back to Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>“Make sure you give yourself a dose of pain meds and it won\u2019t be as bad,\u201d Dr. McIntyre winked.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cYou know they say doctors make bad patients\u2026 I think former ER nurses are worse.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt just burns so bad as it comes through my hand, though!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica pouted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s better than the pain at the incision though isn\u2019t it, Babe?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked as he rubbed her shoulder.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHere you two go again ganging up on me,\u201d Jessica\u2019s face got sour.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe just want you to be in as little pain as possible, that\u2019s all, Jess,\u201d Adam said.<\/span><\/p>\n

Dr. McIntyre pressed the nurse\u2019s button to have her come in so he could check the dressings.\u00a0 <\/span>When the nurse arrived, Dr. McIntyre lifted the covers and Jessica\u2019s hospital gown to inspect the dressing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLooks good.\u00a0 <\/span>Probably will need to have the dressing changed before you leave tonight,\u201d he said to the nurse.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Dr. McIntyre wrote his notes on Jessica\u2019s chart, he read over her vitals from the day.\u00a0 <\/span>He noticed she was starting to run a fever in the last few hours.\u00a0 <\/span>He asked the nurse to take her temperature again before he left; he wanted to see if her temperature was still feverish.<\/span><\/p>\n

Her temperature was still elevated so Dr. McIntyre ordered another round of antibiotics to be added to her IV as a precaution and to see if her temperature would come down with the medication.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, lady.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll see you in the morning.\u00a0 <\/span>Tomorrow we\u2019ll be getting you out of bed.\u00a0 <\/span>You aren\u2019t going to want to, but it\u2019s important you do.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Dr. McIntyre winked at Jessica and shook Adam\u2019s hand. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJessica,\u201d Dr. McIntyre looked down at her with an arched eyebrow, \u201ctomorrow morning I want to see the dosage meter move upward. You\u2019re going to need it!\u201d he said as he walked out of the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBabe, you know he\u2019s right.\u00a0 <\/span>Why do you suffer when the pain meds help?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Tears fell down Jessica\u2019s cheeks. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, you don\u2019t know how painful it is when the medicine hits my hand!\u00a0 <\/span>No, it\u2019s not worse than the pain from the incision, but if I don\u2019t move a whole lot, the pain is tolerable.\u00a0 <\/span>When it gets too much, I hold my breath, and I click the pump.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam wiped the tears away from Jessica\u2019s cheeks with a tissue.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can only imagine, Babe, how it feels.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019ve had major surgery.\u00a0 <\/span>Each day will be a little better, but the pain management is to help with your pain level.\u00a0 <\/span>If you wait until you\u2019re in a lot of pain, your body will tense up, and will take longer for it to come back down.\u00a0 <\/span>If you keep it running through your body, it doesn’t have a chance to get out of control.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen did you become a doctor, Adam?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked with a sarcastic tone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, I\u2019m just trying to help.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t like seeing you hurting,\u201d Adam replied with care in his voice.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cBesides, I remember you telling me about some of your more troublesome patients when we were married\u2026 the first time.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, I\u2019m sorry.\u00a0 <\/span>This is just hard.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can only imagine.\u00a0 <\/span>Thank God we didn\u2019t have cancer to have to worry about on top of the pain.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know if I would have been able to handle it, Adam.\u201d Jessica\u2019s eyes began to well with tears again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShhhh,\u201d Adam said as he wiped the tears away and dropped a tender kiss on Jessica\u2019s lips. \u201cDon\u2019t give it another thought.\u00a0 <\/span>It wasn\u2019t malignant, so it\u2019s not anything we have to worry about.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica\u2019s eyes began to get heavy as she finally decided to give herself the regular doses of the medication.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou need to rest.\u00a0 <\/span>Do you want me to stay or do you want to be alone to sleep?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWould you stay for a little while?\u00a0 <\/span>I miss you.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica pouted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHave I told you how much I love you when you pout?\u201d Adam teased.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled and wiped another rogue tear from Jessica\u2019s cheek.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, I\u2019ll stay, Babe.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll stay as long as you want me to,\u201d Adam smiled as he caressed his wife\u2019s hair.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica drifted off to sleep, and Adam turned on the TV and left the sound low so he would not disturb Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>He changed the channel to cable news to watch the day\u2019s happenings.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica woke up an hour later, and when she did, Adam told her that he was going to head home so she could rest in peace. <\/span><\/p>\n

When Adam got up to come kiss his wife, she started to sob. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s the matter?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked with concern in his voice.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cAre you hurting?\u00a0 <\/span>Give yourself a dose of pain medicine.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Trying to talk between her sobs, Jessica tried to speak.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t want you to leave.\u00a0 <\/span>I want you to stay here with me tonight.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t want to be here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled and stuck out his lip to mimic Jessica\u2019s face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re acting like Jillian, Jess.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re a big girl, I think you can sleep without your Daddy here tonight,\u201d he winked and smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFine, just go away, then,\u201d Jessica turned her head, not looking at Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, come on, Jess, don\u2019t act like a baby.\u00a0 <\/span>I know you’re hurting, and that\u2019s why I should leave, so you can have peace and quiet to sleep.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJust leave, Adam, I\u2019ll be fine,\u201d Jessica insisted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan I have a kiss, please?\u201d Adam patiently inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica turned her head with tears still flowing down her face. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI just want to go home,\u201d she whispered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam took a tissue and wiped the free flowing tears off her cheeks.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Babe, and you\u2019ll be coming home in a few days.\u00a0 <\/span>You aren\u2019t ready yet.\u00a0 <\/span>You just had major surgery, you need extreme pain management right now.\u00a0 <\/span>To come home, you can\u2019t be running a fever, and you have to be able to walk and sit comfortably as well as be able to take pain meds orally.\u00a0 <\/span>I do sympathize with you.\u00a0 <\/span>Remember, I was in the hospital for several weeks after my car wreck.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut I was there with you\u2026\u201d Jessica sniffled.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam rethought what he had said, but changed his words, \u201cIf I could stay the night I would.\u00a0 <\/span>You had a great excuse, you were a nurse.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m not even qualified as an orderly.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t think I could convince them to let me stay.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m just having a pity party.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s just being stuck here, the pain meds and the pain are causing me to act like a baby.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sorry.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam dropped a kiss on his wife\u2019s forehead and smiled at her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll have a proper homecoming in a few days and when the time comes, a homecoming in our bed,\u201d Adam winked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m looking forward to both!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going now, but I\u2019ll be back tomorrow morning, first thing, okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The tears started to fall again, but Jessica nodded her head.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam gave her a tender kiss on her lips and walked out of her room.\u00a0 <\/span>He walked to the parking garage, paid the fees and drove home.<\/span><\/p>\n

When he came into the kitchen from the garage, he saw Brianna slaving away at the stove.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSmells good!\u00a0 <\/span>What\u2019s cooking?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Adam, I\u2019m making lemon and garlic roasted chicken by the Barefoot Contessa.\u00a0 <\/span>I just love Ina Garten; she\u2019s on the Food Network<\/em>.\u00a0 <\/span>I thought I could make some chicken noodle soup with the leftover chicken, and we could take it to Jessica tomorrow afternoon.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSounds delicious.\u00a0 <\/span>I know Jessica would appreciate it and love it, too.\u00a0 <\/span>Thanks for thinking of her.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s feeling a bit down tonight because she\u2019s hurting, and stuck in the hospital.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry to hear that, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>I know how she feels, however.\u00a0 <\/span>I was in a car wreck the summer of my junior year in high school. I was hurt badly and in the hospital for a few weeks, so I know how she feels.\u00a0 <\/span>I hear you were in a bad wreck when Jason was younger, too,\u201d Brianna said as she continued preparing her dishes for dinner.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I was.\u00a0 <\/span>I was told later I actually died on the scene at one point.\u00a0 <\/span>The\u00a0paramedics\u00a0were able to bring me back.\u00a0 <\/span>However, I\u2019m sure it was the love I had for Jason and Emily that kept me going.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m glad you\u2019re still here,\u201d Brianna grinned. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam put his arm around Brianna and kissed the side of her head, \u201cI\u2019m glad I\u2019m still here, too!\u00a0 <\/span>I can\u2019t imagine not being here to see my kids grow up and fall in love with wonderful partners such as yourself.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Adam,\u201d Brianna said bashfully.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSpeaking of my kids, where is the clan?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked looking back toward the rest of the house.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason\u2019s in your office on the computer, checking on some summer classes.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily, I think is in her room talking on the phone….\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI figured as much with her,\u201d Adam interrupted laughing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJillian is in the office reading a book to Jason while he\u2019s on the computer.\u00a0 <\/span>She said her teacher wants the students to read over the break to help with their reading skills so Jason told her to read aloud to him while he was checking out the classes for summer online.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam went to select a bottle of wine for dinner and asked Brianna if she would like a glass while she was making dinner.\u00a0 <\/span>She said she could wait, and told Adam to get cleaned up since dinner would be ready soon.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam advised Brianna he would send Emily in so she could help her set the table while he got cleaned up.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam walked back toward his room.\u00a0 <\/span>He stopped at Emily\u2019s room and knocked.\u00a0 <\/span>She came to the door and told Trey she would talk to him later, her father was home. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBrianna has dinner almost ready, why don\u2019t you go help her set the table, okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure, Daddy.\u00a0 <\/span>How\u2019s Mommy doing?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s sad she can\u2019t be home.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s in pain, but she\u2019s resting comfortably as possible.\u00a0 <\/span>Dr. McIntyre said she\u2019s progressing the way she should be.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m glad to hear it, Daddy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam continued toward his room stopping off at the office where he heard Jillian reading aloud to Jason as he sat back in the executive chair and listened.\u00a0 <\/span>When Jason saw Adam, he smiled. Jillian\u2019s back was to Adam, so she didn’t see him enter the room.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason didn’t let on he was there, and he stood listening to his daughter reading to Jason for a few minutes.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam finally pointed he was going to change his clothes and mouthed dinner was almost ready.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason winked an understanding and Adam headed back to his room. <\/span><\/p>\n

When Adam came back to the kitchen, he found Brianna frantically getting all the dinner off the stove and out of the oven into serving dishes.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason was helping while Emily was putting the final touches on the dinner table. <\/span><\/p>\n

As the family enjoyed dinner, Jason explained the plans for the next day and how they planned to come and get the soup for Jessica before coming up to the hospital in the late afternoon.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam let the kids know he would be heading to the hospital in the morning and would go into the office for part of the day and then meet them at the hospital in the late afternoon and treat them to dinner after their hospital visit with Jessica.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy, would it be okay if Trey came by tomorrow night after we get home from dinner if it\u2019s not too late?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPrincess, I don\u2019t want Trey coming over until your mother is home and feeling better,\u201d Adam said as he continued to enjoy his dinner.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut, Daddy!\u00a0 <\/span>You said!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily cried.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily Elizabeth!\u00a0 <\/span>Do not argue with me at the table, is that clear?\u00a0 <\/span>Now eat the dinner Brianna graciously made for all of us.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll discuss this later if you want, but not right now.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam eyed his middle child.<\/span><\/p>\n

Everyone got quiet and continued to eat dinner.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily ate only a few more bites of her dinner then asked to be excused.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam allowed her to put her plate in the kitchen before she marched back to her room and slammed her door. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam shook his head and apologized to Jason and Brianna for his daughter\u2019s behavior. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s mentioned Trey to me, but I didn\u2019t think she was allowed to date anyone until she\u2019s sixteen, Dad?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ve been at odds about this very subject, Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>Your mother finally got me to compromise and allow him to come to the house while one or both of us are at home.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ve been so busy, and Trey hasn\u2019t been able to come over so we haven\u2019t met him yet.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t think it\u2019s appropriate for him to come over until your mother is home and feeling better.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily will just have to understand.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m with you, Dad.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily should be more respectful to you and Mom.\u00a0 <\/span>After all, you\u2019re allowing her to have a boyfriend before she\u2019s sixteen.\u00a0 <\/span>She shouldn\u2019t act like a baby when she doesn\u2019t get her way.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure once she realizes her mother would want to meet Trey, too; she\u2019ll understand,\u201d Brianna added her two cents. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily is a stubborn brat,\u201d Jillian jumped in the conversation.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJillian, that\u2019s enough from you, young lady.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam snapped at his youngest child.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSorry, Daddy,\u201d Jillian frowned.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cCan I be excused, please?\u201d she asked as tears started to roll down her face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou may,\u201d Adam said as he looked at her with a furrowed brow.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll help you with your plate, Peanut,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna said with a quiet, uncomfortable voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

When Brianna returned to the table, Adam apologized for the behavior of both his daughters. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019re usually more well mannered than they displayed this evening.\u00a0 <\/span>You went out of your way to make a very lovely dinner tonight, and I will speak to both of them about their behavior.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s okay, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>It wasn\u2019t so long ago I was fifteen and wanting to date boys, too.\u00a0 <\/span>I know Emily appreciated dinner tonight.\u00a0 <\/span>She told me when she was when helping me before you, Jason, and Jillian came into the kitchen.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily and Jillian were disrespectful, and I agree with Dad, it shouldn’t be tolerated,\u201d Jason added his feelings on the situation.<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna didn\u2019t say any more on the issue.\u00a0 <\/span>She excused herself and started to clean up the kitchen. <\/span><\/p>\n

Once Adam and Jason finished, they both helped Brianna remove the dishes from the table and Jason stayed in the kitchen to help Brianna do the dishes while Adam went back to speak to both his girls about their behavior at dinner.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam knocked on Emily\u2019s door, and she didn\u2019t answer.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily, it\u2019s Daddy, open this door,\u201d Adam demanded. <\/span><\/p>\n

Emily ended the phone conversation she was having with Trey and came to the door wiping the tears from her eyes.\u00a0 <\/span>She opened the door and stood there glaring at her father, not allowing him in her room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you want, Daddy?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily said with a disrespectful tone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI want to speak with you about your behavior at the table tonight.\u00a0 <\/span>We can do it here in the hall or in the privacy of your room; it\u2019s your choice.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily opened her door, and Adam walked in, she closed the door and went and sat down on her bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow could you be so disrespectful to me, to Brianna, and Jason, with your immature behavior at the table tonight, young lady?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily just glared at her father.\u00a0 <\/span>Her blood pressure was rising at the assault on her character Adam was making.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnswer me!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam\u2019s voice began to rise.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou said I could invite Trey over so we could spend time with each other.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve been good to not get upset over the past few weeks.\u00a0 <\/span>You and Mommy have been busy, and I didn\u2019t ask for him to come over.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s my vacation, I want to see him!\u00a0 <\/span>Why can\u2019t he come over?\u00a0 <\/span>I would like him to meet Jason and Brianna before they return to school!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily Elizabeth, Brianna worked very hard to make dinner for all of us, and you threw a tantrum at the table because you couldn\u2019t get your way again.\u00a0 <\/span>When are you going to grow up and act your age?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen are you going to let me grow up, Daddy?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily cried.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen you stat treating other adults with respect when they tell you no, and you don’t react like a baby. \u00a0Don\u2019t you ever speak to me in that manner again, do you understand me?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily ran and threw herself on her bed and screamed into her pillow, she was so upset with Adam for not allowing Trey to come over.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily Elizabeth, I don\u2019t know what has gotten into you lately, but I\u2019m not going to put up with this behavior any longer, young lady.\u00a0 <\/span>When I don\u2019t give in to everything you want, you are going to have to learn how to accept it in a mature manner.\u00a0 <\/span>Maybe then I\u2019ll start treating you more like a woman instead of a child.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLeave me alone!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily cried louder. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou’re grounded, young lady,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam shouted.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam left her room and found Jason coming up the hall.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry for your sister\u2019s disrespectful behavior to Brianna, Son.\u00a0 <\/span>I need to go speak with Jillian now.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam walked past Jason toward Jillian\u2019s room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad, wait.\u00a0 <\/span>I agree with you about Emily\u2019s and Jillian\u2019s behavior; they were both out of line. Brianna is not upset.\u00a0 <\/span>She wants you to know that.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThey’re going to each apologize anyway,\u201d Adam said as he headed to Jillian\u2019s room.<\/span><\/p>\n

When Adam arrived at Jillian\u2019s room, he walked in and found her playing with her Barbies. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome here, Jillian,\u201d Adam said as he sat down on her bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian came to her father\u2019s side with her head hung low in shame.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam put his hand under Jillian\u2019s chin and brought her face up to meet his.\u00a0 <\/span>He looked at her with a disappointed look on his face and said, \u201cWhy did you say what you said about Emily?\u00a0 <\/span>You know it was not nice and was disrespectful.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Daddy,\u201d Jillian started to cry.<\/span><\/p>\n

“You need to apologize to Brianna, understood?”<\/p>\n

\u201cOkay,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian whimpered.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Jillian cried, Adam looked at her and spoke over her tears, \u201cYou will not talk about your sister like that about your sister again either, do I make myself clear?\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As Adam came out of Jillian\u2019s room, he saw Brianna coming back to Jason\u2019s room where she was staying for the week while Jason slept in the family room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry for my daughters\u2019 disrespect at dinner tonight, Brianna.\u00a0 <\/span>They’ve both been punished, and you should receive an apology from both of them soon.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI understand, Adam,\u201d Brianna said somberly. \u201cWill you excuse me?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOf course.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna walked around Adam and continued on to her room and quietly shut the door.\u00a0 <\/span>She was getting her robe and nightgown ready to go take a shower when she heard a knock on the door; it was Emily.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome on in, Emmy,\u201d Brianna opened the door and invited her future sister-in-law in.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Brie, for my behavior to you, Jason, and my father tonight at the dinner table.\u00a0 <\/span>I just get so tired of Daddy treating me like a child!\u00a0 <\/span>I want you and Jason to meet Trey before you go back to school!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna came and sat down next to Emily and put her arm around Jason\u2019s sister.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI understand how you feel, but I understand your father\u2019s point of view also.\u00a0 <\/span>I know you want to spend time with Trey this week, but Jason said he has not met your mom and dad yet?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, every time I wanted to bring him over these last few weeks, Mommy and Daddy both had something going on.\u00a0 <\/span>I was very understanding.\u00a0 <\/span>I didn\u2019t put up any fight.\u00a0 <\/span>I haven\u2019t seen Trey at all in almost four days now!\u00a0 <\/span>I miss him!\u00a0 <\/span>I want to see him, and now Daddy won\u2019t let me. I just don\u2019t get it!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s under an enormous amount of pressure, Em.\u00a0 <\/span>He\u2019s worried about Jessica; she just had major surgery.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t think he\u2019s trying to keep you and Trey apart, he just wants to be respectful of Jessica not only as his wife but as your mother.\u00a0 <\/span>He wants Trey to meet the both of them at the same time.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe treats me like a four-year-old, Brie!\u00a0 <\/span>It’s so humiliating.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry it came to this, Sweetie.\u00a0 <\/span>Like I said, your father\u2019s been worried about your mother\u2019s health for a few weeks now and even though the prognosis is good, she\u2019s still recovering from major surgery which is a whole new set of worries for him.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sure we\u2019ll get to meet Trey soon.\u00a0 <\/span>If not before we leave, we\u2019ll meet him this summer.\u00a0 <\/span>What you\u2019ve told me about him, he seems like a great guy, and I know Jason and I will love him when we get to meet him finally.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily hugged Brianna for their talk. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, Brie!\u00a0 <\/span>Thanks for understanding where I\u2019m coming from. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI do, Sweetie, but I do understand Adam’s concerns, too.\u00a0 <\/span>Try not to be too hard on him right now.\u00a0 <\/span>He\u2019s got enough to worry about with Jessica.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, but you know…\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>She\u00a0sighed.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Emily was leaving Jason\u2019s room, she met Adam in the hall going back to her room.\u00a0 <\/span>She glared at him and walked past him without saying anything, walked into her room and shut her door quietly.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam shook his head and continued into the kitchen to get a glass of wine before going into the office to work on spreadsheets for an upcoming officers meeting.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason went into Jillian\u2019s room, and when she saw her brother, she started to cry. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy’s mad at me,\u201d she cried as she ran to her brother for condolences. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPeanut, you were not nice calling Emily a stubborn brat.\u00a0 <\/span>When Emily and I were your age and even younger, Daddy\u2019s hand met our bottoms many times for the same reason.\u00a0 <\/span>You know Daddy doesn\u2019t tolerate us calling each other names.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI said I was sorry, Jason!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian continued to cry, \u201cI want Mommy!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Peanut, I miss Mommy, too!\u00a0 <\/span>We need to be good for Daddy while Mommy\u2019s in the hospital.\u00a0 <\/span>You know Mommy wouldn’t be happy with you calling Emily a stubborn brat either.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe gets mad whenever she can\u2019t get her way.\u00a0 <\/span>She is a brat!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJillian Alexis!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason said as he pulled away and glared at his sister.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Jason,\u201d she frowned.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cPlease!\u00a0 <\/span>Don\u2019t tell Daddy.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t want a spanking.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason hugged his sister.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI won\u2019t, but I want you to go tell Brianna you\u2019re sorry for your part in spoiling the dinner she made for us tonight.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay,\u201d Jillian frowned.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason and Jillian walked down the hall and found Jason\u2019s door left open a little bit.\u00a0 <\/span>They knocked, but there was no answer.\u00a0 <\/span>They waited in his room, and Brianna soon walked in with her hair in a towel and her bathrobe on.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Peanut!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna smiled at Jason\u2019s youngest sibling.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry for messing up your dinner tonight when I called Emily a stubborn brat, Brie.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna went to Jillian, sat on the bed and held out her arms to come and give her a hug.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Peanut.\u00a0 <\/span>I know you didn\u2019t mean to be ugly about your sister.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, Brie!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, too, Peanut!\u00a0 <\/span>Why don\u2019t you go get ready for bed, it\u2019s getting late, and we have a big day planned tomorrow, don\u2019t we?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian jumped up and down with glee.\u00a0 <\/span>She was excited to be included in the plans for the week with her oldest brother and his girlfriend.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome on, Peanut, let’s get you ready for bed.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll get your pajamas for you while you\u2019re in the bathtub.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian gave Brianna another hug.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason and Jillian went into the bathroom, and Jason drew a warm bath for Jillian while she undressed and put her clothes in the dirty clothes hamper.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason helped her in the tub so she wouldn\u2019t slip and fall, when she was seated and playing with her bubbles, he went and grabbed her pajamas and fresh panties.\u00a0 <\/span>He left them in the bathroom and headed back to his room where Brianna was towel drying her hair.\u00a0 <\/span>He came up behind her and put his hands around her waist and started kissing her neck.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, your kisses make my body heat up,\u201d Brianna said as she fell limp in his arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason untied Brianna\u2019s robe and put his hand up inside Brianna\u2019s top and found her breasts with his hands.\u00a0 <\/span>He then pulled Brianna back against his body so she could feel the excitement her sexiness had caused.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe can\u2019t!\u00a0 <\/span>Not here in your parent\u2019s home with your dad just a few rooms down!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna whispered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason turned his woman in his arms and kissed her tenderly on her lips.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI can put my hand over your mouth,\u201d Jason grinned. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cStop it, Silly!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna pulled away and continued to towel dry her hair.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cNow you have me all worked up!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason picked Brianna up and laid her on his bed and laid on top of her. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m willing to risk it if you are,\u201d Jason whispered as he nibbled on Brianna\u2019s ear.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou are making it really hard to say no to you.\u00a0 <\/span>What would your dad say?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat he doesn\u2019t know won\u2019t hurt him,\u201d Jason winked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna sighed deeply and gave in to Jason\u2019s desires to live dangerously. <\/span><\/p>\n

When Jillian called to say she was finished with her bath, Adam came from the office and helped his daughter from the tub.\u00a0 <\/span>She dried off, put her pajamas on and Adam walked with her to her room.\u00a0 <\/span>He tucked her in bed, gave her a goodnight kiss, and told her he loved her.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian again apologized to her father for her disrespect at the dinner table.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam explained handing down discipline no matter how light or heavy, it was always more painful for him than her.\u00a0 <\/span>He kissed his daughter again and turned out the light and closed the door quietly.<\/span><\/p>\n

After a few hours, Jason came out of his room and headed toward the den.\u00a0 <\/span>He was looking over his shoulder and ran into Adam coming back from putting his wine glass in the kitchen.\u00a0 <\/span>When Adam saw his son\u2019s shirt untucked, completely opened, and his belt unbuckled, Adam looked at his son with a furrowed brow.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason looked at his father like a deer in headlights.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI..I..I,\u201d Jason stumbled over his words.\u00a0 <\/span>He didn\u2019t know how to explain his state of dress. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled, patted Jason on the shoulder and said, \u201cGood night, Son.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

He then winked and continued on to his room and shut the door.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason stood motionless.\u00a0 <\/span>He knew his father knew and was shocked by his father\u2019s reaction. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank God it wasn\u2019t Mom who caught me!\u00a0 <\/span>She would have me hanging by my….\u201d \u00a0 <\/span>Jason shuttered at how his mother would have reacted.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI would have never done what I just did if Mom were here!\u201d he thought to himself as he went into the bathroom to take a shower and get ready for bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

As the week ended, Adam came to the hospital Friday morning to wait for Dr. McIntyre to come and examine Jessica one last time before releasing her to go home. <\/span><\/p>\n

Between surgeries, Dr. McIntyre came into Jessica\u2019s room wearing his blue scrubs and his white lab coat with his stethoscope hanging around his neck and Jessica\u2019s chart in his left hand.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI understand I have a patient who\u2019s ready to head home,\u201d Dr. McIntyre said as he opened Jessica\u2019s chart, putting on his reading glasses, and looking over her progress. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPlease, Dr. McIntyre.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m ready!\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve been walking several times a day, I hardly have to use my pain pump anymore.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m still a little weak, but I promise to take it easy if you let me go home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The nurse came in, and Jessica moved from the chair and laid down so Dr. McIntyre could check her incision one last time to make sure it was continuing to heal as expected.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, I think I\u2019ll release you today, but there is no driving, no excessive walking, and you are to take it easy over the next few weeks.\u00a0 <\/span>I want to see you back in my office in three weeks.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Sir,\u201d Jessica said with a smile on her face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe nurse will take out your IV\u2019s and I\u2019ll prescribe some oral pain meds for you to have at home in case you need them.\u00a0 <\/span>If you take it easy, you should be fine.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry, Doctor,\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll make sure she follows your orders to the letter,\u201d Adam interjected as he helped Jessica sit up.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe nurse will have my discharge notes for you in a little bit.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Dr. McIntyre closed Jessica\u2019s chart, shook Adam\u2019s hand and patted Jessica on her shoulder. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll see you in three weeks, little lady,\u201d Dr. McIntyre smiled and winked, as he headed out the door to his next scheduled surgery.<\/span><\/p>\n

The nurse stayed and took Jessica\u2019s IV out of her hand and told her she would be back shortly with her discharge paperwork. <\/span><\/p>\n

When the nurse left, Adam helped Jessica take off her gown and helped her put on a soft pair of knit pants and a t-shirt.\u00a0 <\/span>He put her socks and sneakers on, and he helped her into the bathroom so she could brush her teeth.\u00a0 <\/span>As Adam gathered up the last of her personal items, the nurse returned with the discharge paperwork, went over everything with Adam and Jessica, and Jessica signed the paperwork stating she understood everything.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam loaded up the cart with the numerous vases full of flowers, balloons, and get well cards from the family and the various directors at Cartwright, Incorporated. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam left the nurse and Jessica in her wheelchair as he went to get Jessica\u2019s SUV from the parking garage.\u00a0 <\/span>He put the flowers in the back, and he helped Jessica into the passenger seat. They waved to the nurse and thanked her for all she had done throughout the week.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once home, Adam helped Jessica into the house.\u00a0 <\/span>They were greeted by a sign saying, ‘Welcome Home, Mommy!’ And the kids were anxiously waiting there to give her a hug and kiss.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason gave his mother a kiss and a gentle hug and he went to help Adam bring in the flowers and balloons while Brianna, Emily, and Jillian helped their mother into the family room so she could sit up to visit with the kids.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m glad you\u2019re home, Mommy.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve missed you!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian said as she came and sat next to her mother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI missed you, too, Baby Girl,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said as she put her arm around her daughter and hugged her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow are you feeling, Jessica?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna asked, \u201cis there anything I can get you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI’m all right, Sweetie, thank you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, do you think Trey could come over in the next few days now that you\u2019re home?\u201d Emily had asked before her father came back into the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll see, Sweetheart.\u00a0 <\/span>Let me see how I\u2019m feeling later.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI really want Jason and Brie to meet him before they leave.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf we don\u2019t get to meet him, this time, around, we\u2019ll get to meet him during the summer,\u201d Brianna winked at Emily, hoping to remind her of their conversation earlier in the week.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know.\u00a0 <\/span>I just miss him and want to see him!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSweetheart, I just got home.\u00a0 <\/span>I promise if I\u2019m feeling up to it, he can come over,\u00a0 <\/span>I promise.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, Mommy, I\u2019m sorry.\u00a0 <\/span>I just miss him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Sweetheart.\u00a0 <\/span>Maybe we can have him come for dinner tomorrow night.\u00a0 <\/span>Let me talk to Daddy about it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo we have to ask Daddy?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily moaned.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica looked at Emily and then at Brianna. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThey had words earlier in the week when she wanted to ask Trey over, and Adam said no.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, Daddy’s unreasonable!\u00a0 <\/span>Even though he said I could have Trey over when one or both of you are home, he wouldn\u2019t let him come over!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI told you why, Princess,\u201d Adam\u2019s voice interrupted the conversation.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUH!\u201d was all Emily could say as she stormed out of the room and went to her room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s going on here?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily and Dad don’t see eye to eye lately,\u201d Jason told Jessica.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll fill you in on everything later, Babe,\u201d Adam said hoping to change the conversation to another subject. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI should probably lie down.\u00a0 <\/span>The trip home was a little more painful than I thought it would be.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Jason helped Jessica to the bedroom and helped her lay down in bed.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam went and got a glass of water and had Jessica take a couple of pain pills.\u00a0 <\/span>He helped her sit back up to take the pills and then she laid back down.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason left to go back to the den where he found Brianna reading a book.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t believe Emily!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason said as he sat down next to Brianna, putting his hand on her leg.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna asked as she closed her book and laid her head on his chest and ran her hands through the chest hair peeking out of his shirt.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily’s so selfish about having Trey over.\u00a0 <\/span>Mom\u2019s barely home five minutes, and she\u2019s begging her to allow him to come over.\u00a0 <\/span>She won\u2019t even let Mom get settled.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI understand Emmie\u2019s wanting Trey to come over.\u00a0 <\/span>She misses him; she wants to see him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe was totally out of line with Dad the other night.\u00a0 <\/span>She deserves everything she gets.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s got a high school crush, Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>She wants to spend time with her boyfriend.\u00a0 <\/span>What\u2019s so wrong with that?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s wrong with that?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason sat up and turned to look at Brianna.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cShe practically strong-armed Mom and Dad into letting her spend time with a boy before she turns sixteen.\u00a0 <\/span>Now that they\u2019re asking her to wait a little bit, she’s been a big baby about it. I\u00a0 <\/span>agree with Dad.\u00a0 <\/span>Maybe she needs to be reminded again who makes the decisions around here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, I agree she was out of line with your dad, but I see her point of view, too.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sure if Jessica is feeling up to it tomorrow, she\u2019ll talk to Adam, and hopefully, he\u2019ll allow Trey to come for dinner tomorrow.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t mind cooking for an extra guest.\u00a0 <\/span>Are you going to be this way with our girls when we get married?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean, Brie?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason got defensive.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, every child is different.\u00a0 <\/span>You told me you were into your school work, so dating girls was not anything your parents had to deal with where you were concerned.\u00a0 <\/span>My parents allowed me to group date at fifteen and sixteen.\u00a0 <\/span>I could date boys one on one until\u00a0I was a senior in high school.\u00a0 <\/span>My brother is not as mature as me, so they are making him wait to even group date.\u00a0 <\/span>Every child is different.\u00a0 <\/span>I hope we\u2019ll consider each of our children\u2019s personalities when we make decisions like this.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think my mom and dad have raised us appropriately, Brie.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not questioning how your parents raised you, Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>I believe we need to remember our kids will all be different, and you can\u2019t make cookie cutter rules because they’ll not be useful for each child.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019ve told me Emily got away with a lot more than you ever did; Jillian even more so.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s true, they do.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily is Dad\u2019s princess, and Jillian is Mom\u2019s baby girl.\u00a0 <\/span>I was the first born so they were hardest on me and I\u2019m a better person because of it.\u00a0 <\/span>I would never allow my daughter to get away with what Dad lets Emily get away with.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, you’ll be a great dad to our children, I don\u2019t doubt for one minute.\u00a0 <\/span>I wouldn\u2019t want to marry you if I didn\u2019t feel you would be.\u00a0 <\/span>However, I\u2019m sure we\u2019ll be the same way; we\u2019ll be overprotective with our first child and each child who comes along after we\u2019ll be easier.\u00a0 <\/span>I’m sure any girls we have will be able to wrap you around their little finger.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, you think so, future Mrs. Cartwright?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason teased as he laid Brianna down on the couch.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI do, Mr. Cartwright!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna said as she unbuttoned Jason\u2019s shirt to expose the massive chest he inherited from his father.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGod, woman, do you know what you do to me?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason growled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf it\u2019s anything like what you do to me….\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna said as she pulled Jason down and kissed him passionately.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian came into the den without knocking and saw Jason and Brianna kissing in a frenzied state.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOoops!\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sorry.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m leaving right now.\u201d Jillian said with embarrassment. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jason sat up quickly buttoning his shirt.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cNo, it\u2019s okay, Peanut.\u00a0 <\/span>You probably came at the right time,\u201d he smiled as he winked at Brianna.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou and Brianna act like Mommy and Daddy, Jason,\u201d Jillian said innocently. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love Brianna the way Daddy loves Mommy, Peanut.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian smiled. \u201cI love you too, Brianna!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>she said as she hugged her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAwe, Peanut, I love you, too!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica\u2019s first day at home was restful and comfortable and the next morning she told Adam she felt she was up to allowing Emily to invite Trey over for dinner so the family could all meet him.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam was not sure he wanted to allow Emily to ask Trey over because she had hardly spoken two words to him since he’d\u00a0had words with\u00a0her during their argument on Monday night.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, come on, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Quit being as stubborn as Emily.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sure she knows she was wrong.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll make sure she apologizes to you today for her actions.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe needs to apologize because she wants to, not because you tell her she has to so she can have a boy over to the house.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou two can\u2019t stay mad at each other forever, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Let the child have some freedom.\u00a0 <\/span>She wants to be a woman, let her grow up.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFine, Jess! I\u2019m not going to argue with you after you\u2019ve had major surgery.\u00a0 <\/span>Let her invite Trey over.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Emily called Trey and asked him to come to dinner and told him he was going to be able to meet her brother and his girlfriend after all.\u00a0 <\/span>Trey was excited to meet everyone.<\/span><\/p>\n

The evening came when Trey was going to meet the rest of the family.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam decided to grill steaks and Brianna fixed delicious side dishes including a broccoli rice and cheese casserole, baked potatoes, and fresh steamed carrots. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica felt well enough to put a little make-up on and slowly walked into the kitchen and started to help Brianna with dinner.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI appreciate you wanting to help, but I want you to sit at the table and keep me company, okay?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna insisted.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam came in from the lighting the charcoals when he saw Jessica up and about looking beautiful.\u00a0 <\/span>She had put on baby pink matching knit pant and casual hoodie suit with her Sketcher slip on sneakers.<\/span><\/p>\n

They heard the doorbell ring and Emily yelled, \u201cIt\u2019s Trey!\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll get it!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam helped Jessica off the chair, and she put her arm through Adam\u2019s, and they walked into the front room.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason, Brianna, and Jillian stayed at the back of the house to give Adam and Jessica a chance to meet Trey first so he wouldn\u2019t be overwhelmed with meeting the whole family all at once.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Jessica came into the front room and saw Emily hugging Trey.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam cleared his throat so his daughter would know she and her friend were not alone.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily broke her embrace with Trey, took his arm and brought him over to meet her parents.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Trey<\/a><\/p>\n

\u201cTrey, I would like to introduce you to my mother, Jessica and my father, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy, Daddy, this is Trey Hollingsworth.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam extended his hand to Trey, \u201cIt\u2019s nice to meet you, Trey.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ve heard a lot about you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s nice to meet you too, Sir.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily has told me a lot about you as well.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMrs. Cartwright, I hope you\u2019re feeling better.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m glad to hear that you\u2019re out of the hospital and recovering at home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Trey, I\u2019m feeling much better.\u00a0 <\/span>Welcome to our home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Ma\u2019am, I\u2019m happy to be here,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Trey smiled nervously.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome in!\u00a0 <\/span>Meet my brother and sister and my brother\u2019s girlfriend!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily said excitedly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Jessica held back as Emily pulled Trey toward the kitchen so she could introduce the most popular boy in school to her brother, his girlfriend, and her baby sister.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, Trey’s so cute, I see why Emily is infatuated with him,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said smiling from ear to ear.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo I need to be jealous of you, as you were of me with Brianna, Jess?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam said playfully. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica hit Adam in the chest with her fist and smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI wasn\u2019t myself then,\u201d she reasoned. <\/span><\/p>\n

The couple walked into the dining room where Emily was introducing Trey to her older brother and younger sister.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam excused himself to check the coals.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica had been standing a little too long and was getting light headed and started to feel faint. Trey was the closest to her when she felt her legs lose their strength.\u00a0 <\/span>When Adam came back in the house, he saw Jessica collapsing into Trey\u2019s strong arms.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason and Adam ran over to help Trey carry Jessica\u2019s dead weight over to the couch in the family room.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna grabbed a towel, drenched it in cold water and rushed it over to where Adam was holding Jessica in his arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

As he placed the rag on her head, she started to regain conscience. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you okay, Mrs. Cartwright?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Trey asked as he sat on the other side of Jessica. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m fine, Trey.\u00a0 <\/span>Thanks for catching me.\u00a0 <\/span>I guess I\u2019ve overdone it a little bit today.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI want you to stay in here until we finish dinner, do I make myself clear?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam\u2019s voice was concerned and authoritative. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Adam, don\u2019t be so overbearing.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m fine.\u00a0 <\/span>I can join with everyone else; I just need to remain seated.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMrs. Cartwright, you really should be careful.\u00a0 <\/span>My mother had major surgery a few months ago, and when she fainted like you did, she ended up breaking her arm when she got lightheaded and fell,\u201d Trey commented.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI\u2019ll be happy to help you into the other room if you would like to sit in there with everyone.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Trey,\u201d Jessica said as she glared at Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>She then turned back to Trey and smiled, \u201cI would appreciate your assistance.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Trey and Adam helped Jessica off the couch.\u00a0 <\/span>Trey put his arm out for Jessica’s, and she curled hers\u00a0into his, and he helped her into the kitchen where she sat down at the breakfast table and kept Brianna company while Adam was in and out on\u00a0the patio as he puts the steaks on the grill and began to cook them.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once the steaks finished cooking and everything was on the table, everyone sat down and started to chow down on all the food Brianna and Adam had prepared.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason helped Jillian cut her steak.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam watched Trey and Emily smile and make loving eyes with each other. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTrey, Emily tells us you\u2019re a junior.\u00a0 <\/span>Do you plan to attend college after high school?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam started the barrage of questions on his daughter\u2019s new love interest, trying to find something wrong so he could have cause to keep the two apart.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI play football and baseball, Mr. Cartwright.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m better at football than baseball, so I\u2019m hoping to get a football scholarship to Stanford.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll know next spring if I\u2019ve been successful.\u00a0 <\/span>My goal is to play in the National Football League after I graduate college, but if that doesn\u2019t work out for me, I\u2019m hoping to become a sports agent.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou have high ambitions, Trey.\u00a0 <\/span>If you don\u2019t make the NFL, being a sports agent will be a hard profession to break into, don\u2019t you think?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam continued as he cut another piece of his steak.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy father owns a sports management agency in LA; my mother and father are divorced.\u00a0 <\/span>I live with my mom and her husband here in Carson City.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou were the first string varsity quarterback this year weren\u2019t you?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked, remembering his name during the games she and Adam would attend to watch Emily cheer.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Ma\u2019am, I was.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll be first string again next year as well.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe team did quite well this past season,\u201d Jason joined the discussion.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe did.\u00a0 <\/span>We only lost one game.\u00a0 <\/span>The biggest game of the season; the state championship.\u201d Trey hung his head low.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoney, you shouldn\u2019t feel bad.\u00a0 <\/span>You got hurt in the first quarter.\u00a0 <\/span>It wasn\u2019t you who lost the game.\u00a0 <\/span>You led the team all the way to the championship!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily stroked Trey\u2019s back. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was sacked by a three hundred pound linebacker.\u00a0 <\/span>He knocked me out cold.\u00a0 <\/span>I had to be taken off on a stretcher.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was so scared!\u00a0 <\/span>I cried from the sidelines; all of the cheerleaders did.\u00a0 <\/span>This was before we knew we liked each other,\u201d Emily smiled as she hugged Trey\u2019s arm.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m hoping I can get into Stanford, too,\u201d Emily announced as she changed the subject to her college aspirations. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t you worry about finishing high school first, Princess,\u201d Adam said with a cool tone.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily glared at Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>She was still angry with him for their fight on Monday and knew it was her mother who had talked her father into allowing Trey to come over on Saturday night. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know if I\u2019ll even get into Stanford just yet,\u201d he smiled warmly at Emily.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cIt\u2019s my first choice, however.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHave you applied anywhere else yet?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna asked<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Ma\u2019am, I have.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve also applied to UNLV and UCLA as well.\u00a0 <\/span>Since my father lives in LA, I would just go live with him if I end up at UCLA.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf you get drafted to the NFL, will your father be your agent?\u201d Jason asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, he would assign one of his partners to be my agent.\u00a0 <\/span>As in medicine, a family member should never manage another family member.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s not advisable.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cInteresting,\u201d Jessica noted as she took a drink of hot tea.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs there a particular team you would like to play for if you were to be accepted into the draft?\u201d Jason asked finding the football talk interesting.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI really like Dallas and New England, but I’d be happy to join any organization to get my feet wet as a professional player.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As dinner wound down, the family all gathered in the three seasons room.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily and Trey sat next to each other on the love seat while Adam had Jessica lie down on one of the chaise lounges.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason took the other chaise lounge, and when Adam and Brianna finished the dishes, Brianna sat on Jason\u2019s lap and Adam stood and leaned against the wall.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian, who found all the adult talk boring asked if she could be excused to go play in her room which Jessica allowed. <\/span><\/p>\n

The evening came to an early close for Jessica, as well, as she tired very fast.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam and Jason helped her to her feet.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam excused himself and Jessica while he helped her back to their room to get dressed for bed.\u00a0 <\/span>They stopped off at Jillian\u2019s room and found she had changed into her pajama\u2019s and was sleeping soundly. <\/span><\/p>\n

When they reached their bedroom, Adam helped Jessica remove her clothes so she wouldn\u2019t have to bend over.\u00a0 <\/span>He brought her the bottle of cleansing oil so she could remove what little makeup she had put on and a warm washcloth to wipe it off.\u00a0 <\/span>She put her nightgown on and Adam helped her lay down in bed.\u00a0 <\/span>He bent down and dropped a kiss on her lips. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m glad you’re back home in our bed.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve been lonely without you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m afraid I\u2019ll have to satisfy you in other ways for the next six to eight weeks,\u201d Jessica winked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRight now, I\u2019m just concerned with you gaining your strength back and the incision healing.\u00a0 <\/span>Do you need any pain medication before I go back to our guest?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Babe, I feel pretty good, actually.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam turned out the light and Jessica closed her eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam returned to the three seasons room where he saw the two couples laughing and talking about music from their era. <\/span><\/p>\n

Trey saw Adam return to the room and stood to welcome him back.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam smiled and waved for him to sit back down.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think I\u2019m going to go ahead and join my wife.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s been a pleasure meeting you this evening, Trey.\u00a0 <\/span>I look forward to getting to know you better.\u00a0 <\/span>Please feel free to stay and enjoy the night with Emily, Jason, and Brianna.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam called Jason into the kitchen and advised him to not stay up too late.\u00a0 <\/span>He wanted to make sure Trey didn\u2019t go home too late since he had not had a chance to meet his mother and stepfather yet.\u00a0 <\/span>He didn\u2019t want them getting the wrong idea of their family.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason agreed.\u00a0 <\/span>When he returned to the three seasons room, Brianna had taken her place on the chaise lounge Jessica had occupied, and Jason sat back down in his usual spot. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you have a curfew, Trey?\u00a0 <\/span>I want to make sure we don\u2019t keep you too late.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAs long as I am back home by midnight, my mom doesn\u2019t worry too much.\u00a0 <\/span>She really doesn\u2019t give me a curfew, but midnight is what I set for myself.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t want her to be nervous that I\u2019m out too late.”<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it\u2019s only 10:00 P.M. so we have a few more hours!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason, Brianna, Emily, and Trey talked about everything from sports to college life.\u00a0 <\/span>Trey asked all types of questions about living in dorms or living independently off campus.\u00a0 <\/span>He figured with a football scholarship, he wouldn\u2019t be allowed to live off campus, at least for his freshman year, so Brianna gave him a little insight into dorm life.\u00a0 <\/span>She felt sure dorm life at all large universities was probably the same. <\/span><\/p>\n

As the time grew closer to midnight, the foursome wound down their evening together.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna and Jason excused themselves and told Trey how much they enjoyed meeting him and hoped they would be able to spend time with him again very soon.\u00a0 <\/span>They walked back into the kitchen to finish up the desert dishes they had dirtied sitting in the three seasons room while Emily and Trey said their goodbyes to each other.<\/span><\/p>\n

Trey took Emily into his arms and looked lovingly into her eyes.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cYou have a great family. Thanks for inviting me over to meet them tonight.\u00a0 <\/span>I can\u2019t wait for you to meet my mom and stepdad.\u00a0 <\/span>I guess eventually you\u2019ll meet my dad.\u00a0 <\/span>It might be at graduation next year, though,\u201d he laughed. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe we can have your mom and stepdad over for dinner some night.\u00a0 <\/span>Daddy won\u2019t allow me to be with you anywhere but here until I\u2019m sixteen,\u201d Emily said as she rolled her eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

Trey dropped a kiss on Emily\u2019s nose.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cDon\u2019t blame your dad for being over protective of you. \u00a0He only wants the best for you and to keep you safe.\u00a0 <\/span>I really like that about him.\u00a0 <\/span>I would be the same if we had a daughter together.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily\u2019s eyes got wide. \u201cTrey!\u201d she said as she hid her face in his chest. <\/span><\/p>\n

Trey pulled Emily\u2019s face up to look at his.\u00a0 <\/span>He got serious as he said, \u201cI really like you a lot, Emily Cartwright.\u00a0 <\/span>I hope our relationship will continue for a long time to come.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily\u2019s eyes got misty as she stared back at Trey.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI would like that very much, too!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Trey tenderly kissed Emily\u2019s lips and whispered, \u201cThanks again for tonight. I had a great time.\u00a0 <\/span>You have a very nice family.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The two teenagers hugged tightly for a few minutes, and Trey finally pulled away reluctantly and said he needed to get going if he was going to make it home before midnight.\u00a0 <\/span>He gave another quick kiss to Emily, and she opened the door, and she walked him out, waving as he got into his Mustang. <\/span><\/p>\n

Emily returned to the kitchen where she saw Jason trying to distract Brianna from finishing the dishes by trying to unbutton her blouse.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood thing it\u2019s me, Jason, and not Mommy!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason immediately took his hands off Brianna and the look of surprise and fear quickly was erased from their faces as they realized they had only been caught by Emily. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI told you to stop before we got busted!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna pounded Jason in the chest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou didn\u2019t see anything did you, Em?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason came over to his sister and started to tickle her.<\/span><\/p>\n

She screamed in laughter, but Jason quickly covered her mouth.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBe quiet!\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019ll wake up Mom and Dad!\u201d he whispered loudly. <\/span><\/p>\n

All three giggled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou would have so been busted if I had been Mommy, Older Brother!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank goodness you weren\u2019t!\u00a0 <\/span>Now go to bed, Little Sister!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily stuck her tongue out and smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cGood night, Brie.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Laughing, Brianna wished Emily a good night.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cKeep your hands to yourself, Jason!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily winked as she kissed and hugged him goodnight.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMind your own business, Sis.\u00a0 <\/span>Love you.\u00a0 <\/span>Goodnight,\u201d Jason said, and he slapped her bum as she turned to head to her room.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason grabbed hold of Brianna\u2019s waist from behind, and the two walked to his room where he kissed Brianna goodnight before going to the den for one more night before they would head to the airport the next day to fly back east.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

After a morning\u2019s big breakfast, Jessica said her goodbyes to Brianna and Jason as Adam put their bags in the Lexus SUV.\u00a0 <\/span>Since Jessica was still too weak to travel to the airport, she gave her son and his girlfriend a tearful kiss and hug goodbye at the house.\u00a0 <\/span>She stood at the garage door and wiped her tears as the family all piled into the SUV and began to back out of the garage.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica waved one last time to them as Adam put the gear in drive and they drove away.\u00a0 <\/span>She thought about the many times Adam, Jason, and Emily would drive away on a Friday night to head to the Ponderosa when they were divorced.\u00a0 <\/span>She was so happy to know now, Adam, Emily, and their youngest daughter would be coming back home after dropping off her baby boy and his girlfriend at the airport to head back to college.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica went back inside the house and made herself a cup of tea.\u00a0 <\/span>She grabbed her latest book by John Grisham and went into the three seasons room to read while she waited for her family to return home. <\/span><\/p>\n

She couldn\u2019t wait until summer break when she would see her son and his girlfriend again.<\/span><\/p>\n

Virginia City tour information courtesy of my own experiences in Virginia City and Yahoo Travel<\/i><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

Chapter Nine<\/b><\/p>\n

Eight weeks past and life returned to normal for Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>Her check-up with Dr. McIntyre went well, and he gave her the all clear sign for her and Adam to resume intimate relations.\u00a0 <\/span>It had been a somewhat smooth eight weeks for Adam in the intimacy department.\u00a0 <\/span>He respected the major surgery his wife had been through and didn\u2019t want to risk any post-surgical complications which might jeopardize their eight-week reunion.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica and Adam cuddled in bed, and even when Jessica offered to satisfy her husband, sexually he told her he could wait.\u00a0 <\/span>He felt it was only right he didn’t partake in any special favors when he could not return them in kind to her.\u00a0 <\/span>The day came, and Jessica planned a very sensual evening for her husband.<\/span><\/p>\n

Upon her return home from the doctor\u2019s appointment, she spent the balance of her morning on the computer; she wanted to start their vacation plans for the summer.\u00a0 <\/span>She emailed Rebecca with the dates which worked for their family and hoped one of them would also work out for Rebecca, Dave, and their girls.\u00a0 <\/span>She checked her email and found a note from Rebecca.\u00a0 <\/span>She and Dave had found a week free in which they could host everyone at their home at Nantucket Island. <\/span><\/p>\n

Dear Adam and Jessica,<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

The week of July 3rd through 9th seems to be a week which works for all of us.\u00a0 <\/span>I hope this is still good for you.\u00a0 <\/span>It would be great to celebrate the 4th of July with you and your family here on the island.\u00a0 <\/span>Let me know.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll head to the island on the Friday before so please feel free to make your vacation plans accordingly!<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Hope all is well, and you are still recovering from your surgery okay, Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>Dave and I were pleased to hear the good news from Adam about the successful surgery and no cancer was found.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

We look forward to seeing you in July! Let us know if this time still works for you.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Your friends,<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Rebecca and Dave<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Jessica called Adam at the office to make sure he cleared his calendar for the week of the third.\u00a0 <\/span>When he did not answer his personal line, the call transferred to his administrative assistant, Heather.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam Cartwright\u2019s office, Heather speaking,\u201d was the soft voice Jessica heard.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHeather?\u00a0 <\/span>Hi, it’s, Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam told me you hadn’t been feeling well; how are you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s one of those late spring allergy attacks.\u00a0 <\/span>I feel fine, but it affected my vocal cords.\u00a0 <\/span>I sound a lot worse than I feel, believe me,\u201d Heather laughed.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cAre you looking for Adam?\u00a0 <\/span>He\u2019s not here a the moment; you want me to have him call you?\u00a0 <\/span>Oh, wait, here he comes.\u00a0 <\/span>He stepped out to speak with Larry\u00a0in legal, but he\u2019s coming back now.\u00a0 <\/span>Let me transfer you to his office.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Heather!\u00a0 <\/span>Hope you get your voice back soon!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll transfer you now.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam was looking over some papers as he came by Heather\u2019s desk on his way back to his office.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJessica\u2019s on the line.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll transfer her back to your private line, Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Heather.\u00a0 <\/span>Why don\u2019t you take the rest of the day off; give your voice a break.\u00a0 <\/span>I should be okay the rest of the afternoon.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, boss, I\u2019ll do just that!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Heather grinned. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam winked, headed into his office and shut the door.\u00a0 <\/span>He picked up the line where Jessica was holding.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, Babe, how\u2019d your appointment with Dr. McIntyre go this morning?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked as he signed contracts which needed his signature.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll let you know tonight,\u201d Jessica replied in a sexy voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, shall I call it an early day and come home for an afternoon delight?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam stopped signing papers and leaned back in his executive chair.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe girls will be getting out of school soon.\u00a0 <\/span>Besides, it\u2019ll give you something to look forward to later, My lover,\u201d Jessica smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

Her tone quickly changed from her sexy voice to her normal one as she told Adam about the email she received from Rebecca.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt looks like the week of the third works for Rebecca and Dave.\u00a0 <\/span>Is your calendar still clear?\u00a0 <\/span>If so, mark off Thursday and Friday before, the entire week, and the Monday after so we can make our plans for Boston and Nantucket.\u00a0 <\/span>I would like to take the girls to see Boston, our alma mater, as well as show them where Jason lives and goes to school.\u00a0 <\/span>I think they would enjoy the Freedom Trail and Duck Tour as well.\u00a0 <\/span>We could spend a day or two on the Cape before heading over to Nantucket.\u00a0 <\/span>What do you think?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As Jessica was discussing the plans she had, Adam looked over his calendar.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t have anything on the books right now for the week before, the week of, and I don\u2019t have anything I can\u2019t change for the week after either. How about I block the week before, the week of, and the first few days after.\u00a0 <\/span>We deserve an extended vacation as a family.\u00a0 <\/span>What do you think?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked as he was blocking off the days and sending an email to Heather to let her know what he’d done so she wouldn\u2019t have a heart attack when she came back on Monday and saw Adam had made changes to his calendar she kept straight and orderly for him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam Cartwright, you\u2019ve just earned yourself some extra bonus points tonight when we go to bed,\u201d Jessica\u2019s playful voice returned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMmmm, I like the sound of that, Mrs. Cartwright,\u201d Adam growled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat time are you planning to be home tonight, Love?\u201d Jessica asked as she started to surf the web for hotel availability on the Cape; she would write to Jason and let him know the plans for vacation, and they would be staying at his apartment for a few days while in Boston.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m shooting for 6:00 P.M. Might be a little later.\u00a0 <\/span>If I see it going beyond 7:00 PM, I\u2019ll call, but I really don\u2019t see it going beyond 6:30 P.M. at the latest right now,\u201d Adam said as he turned back to looking over and signing more contracts and other related business documents.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAlright, we\u2019ll see you then.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica replied to Rebecca with a quick note letting her know the week of July 3rd would work for the Cartwright\u2019s, and they would be spending a few days in Boston, Cambridge, and Cape Cod before taking the high-speed ferry over to Nantucket to spend the week with her, Dave, and the twins.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica made notes for herself so she could start making hotel, plane, and ferry reservations as well as get tour information.\u00a0 <\/span>Her time was running short because she had to pick up Emily and Jillian from school. <\/span><\/p>\n

She had special plans in store for Adam, so she arranged for the girls to spend the night with Joe and Donna.\u00a0 <\/span>It was a welcomed visit for Joe and Donna.\u00a0 <\/span>The girls looked forward to spending time with their brand new cousin, Joseph, Jr., and their twin girls. <\/span><\/p>\n

6:17 P.M. Adam pulled into the garage and saw Jessica\u2019s SUV was gone.\u00a0 <\/span>He figured she must have to run a last minute errand, and she would be back soon.\u00a0 <\/span>His happiness turned to concern when he walked into the house, and it was dark with nobody home.\u00a0 <\/span>He found a note laying on the counter, and it read,<\/span><\/p>\n

Please go to our bedroom and change your clothes into something comfortable and casual.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Love, Jessica<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Adam walked into the bedroom where he saw clothes already laid out for him to change into with a note laying on top of them; it read:<\/span><\/p>\n

The girls are at Joe\u2019s and Donna\u2019s house tonight.\u00a0 <\/span>Change out of your work clothes, into the jeans and shirt I\u2019ve left out for you and head up to our home on the Ponderosa.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Love, Jessica<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Adam was intrigued.\u00a0 <\/span>He didn\u2019t know what was going on.\u00a0 <\/span>It was not their anniversary, but Jessica always planned fun sexy things to keep their marriage from getting dull.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam smiled and did as the letter instructed.<\/span><\/p>\n

After dressing, Adam jumped back in his Porsche and headed up to their home on the Ponderosa.\u00a0 <\/span>When he pulled into the garage, he found Jessica\u2019s SUV already in there. <\/span><\/p>\n

When he walked into the house, he found candles lit everywhere and soft music playing on the stereo. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJessica?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam yelled, but there was no answer.<\/span><\/p>\n

When Adam walked into the living room, he saw rose petals strewn on the floor leading up the stairs with a note hanging on the banister and a single long-stemmed rose positioned next to the note.\u00a0 <\/span>It read:<\/span><\/p>\n

The rose pedals will lead you to me.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Love, Jessica.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Adam smiled as he picked up the long stemmed rose and started up the stairs.\u00a0 <\/span>He felt his body heat up.\u00a0 <\/span>He couldn\u2019t wait to see what was at the end of the trail of petals.\u00a0 <\/span>As he got to the top of the stairs, he saw the petals led into his and Jessica\u2019s bedroom where the doors were closed.\u00a0 <\/span>He got to the door and knocked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome in, My Love,\u201d Jessica said seductively.<\/span><\/p>\n

When Adam opened the door, he saw his wife laying on the bed in a brand new red silk nightgown laying on the bed sexy for her man.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam grinned from ear to ear and walked over to the bed as he undressed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWOW!” he said as he headed toward the bed. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica started to sit up, like a lioness ready to pounce on her prey.\u00a0 <\/span>Her eyes were fixed on her man.\u00a0 <\/span>When Adam arrived at the edge of the bed, he told her, \u201cNo, I\u2019ll join you in just a minute.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam undressed completely and joined her and they enjoyed the mutual satisfaction of \u00a0each other.<\/span><\/p>\n

After short but intense love making, Adam held his wife in his arms.\u00a0 <\/span>She laid her head on his chest hearing the rapidness of his heartbeat begin to slow as his body came down from its orgasmic euphoria. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI feel so safe in your arms, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>I never want to leave them,\u201d Jessica said as she ran her fingers through Adam\u2019s chest hair.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stroked Jessica\u2019s soft locks, kissed her ear and stroked her cheek softly whispering, \u201cI never want to let you go.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI wondered how it would be -the first time since having a hysterectomy- Dr. McIntyre said it could be different for me.\u00a0 <\/span>I worried in silence all eight weeks while I was healing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam put his fingers under Jessica\u2019s chin pulling her face to meet his, \u201cAnd?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica smiled, \u201cJust as beautiful as always, my gorgeous lover.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam kissed her lips tenderly, and she laid her head back on his chest.<\/span><\/p>\n

After cuddling and enjoying the touch of each other\u2019s bodies for a few hours, Adam announced he was getting hungry.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica had made stuffed pasta shells, and they were in the oven on warm.\u00a0 <\/span>The salad was in the fridge, and all they needed was a bottle of wine.\u00a0 <\/span>The couple got out of bed.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam went to put on his jeans he had worn up to the ranch house, and he grabbed Jessica\u2019s short silk pink robe.<\/span><\/p>\n

They went downstairs together, Adam went into the cellar to get a bottle of wine while Jessica headed to the kitchen to get the dinner out of the oven. <\/span><\/p>\n

When Adam returned, Jessica had dressed the table with a crisp white linen table cloth, matching napkins, fine china, and crystal.\u00a0 <\/span>The tablescape was finished off with two taper candles burning draped on each side of an elegant bouquet of spring flowers Hop Sing had picked and arranged himself.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam uncorked the bottle of red wine.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWow, so formal!\u00a0 <\/span>I feel a bit under-dressed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica finished putting the tossed salad for two on the table, grabbed both her and Adam\u2019s wine glasses, handing Adam\u2019s to him and sat on his lap facing him.\u00a0 <\/span>She took a drink of her wine, licked her lips, and untied her robe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cActually, my darling, I think we\u2019re a little overdressed if you ask me,\u201d she said as she let her silk robe fall to the floor.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam swallowed hard.\u00a0 <\/span>He took a drink of his vino as he took in the sexiness of his woman. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy do I now not feel so hungry?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam whispered as he began to nibble on Jessica\u2019s chest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe need our nourishment, My Love.\u00a0 <\/span>We have a long night of passion ahead of us.\u00a0 <\/span>I think you\u2019ll like what\u2019s for dessert, and I\u2019ll be the platter on which it is served,\u201d Jessica winked.<\/span><\/p>\n

After dinner was complete, Adam helped Jessica rinse the dishes and set them on the counter to hand wash in the morning.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica sent Adam back upstairs and told him she would be up in a few minutes.<\/span><\/p>\n

He headed back upstairs and started a fire in the fireplace in their room as the night air in the mountains was still a bit chilly. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica returned with a cart filled with strawberries, whipped cream, a fondue of chocolate sauce, and brandy snifters with Grand Mariner Liqueur.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica arrived at the bed.\u00a0 <\/span>She took a juicy strawberry from the plate, dipped it in the chocolate then whipped cream, and fed it to Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>She then made one for herself. <\/span><\/p>\n

After eating the strawberries and drinking the liqueurs, Jessica looked at the chocolate and whipped cream.\u00a0 <\/span>She laid down, lifted her arms up over her head and spread her legs apart.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think you can find something to do with the rest of this dessert, can\u2019t you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Jessica enjoyed bathing each other in chocolate sauce and whipped cream for the next several hours.\u00a0 <\/span>After they finished dessert, they both got up and took a shower together and fell into each other’s arms and slept the rest of the night.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

The next morning, while Jessica was washing the dishes from the evening before, Adam stayed upstairs stripping the bed and putting fresh sheets on.\u00a0 <\/span>Joe and Donna dropped Emily and Jillian off on their way to see Ben so he could spend some time with Joe’s and Donna’s new grandson.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian came skipping into the kitchen with Emily close behind. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m thirsty!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian exclaimed as she went to the refrigerator to see what was available to drink.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily got a glass down for her sister and looked at her mother who was wearing just one of Adam\u2019s t-shirts and her panties. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou and Daddy have an um….\u201d she cleared her throat, \u201cnight, Mommy?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica smiled and walked over to her oldest daughter tapping her on the nose with her towel and smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cThat, my dear, is none of your business!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Mommy, the look on your face tells me everything, she grinned.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTells you what, Princess?\u201d Adam asked as he entered the kitchen to bring his empty coffee mug in to be washed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi Daddy!\u201d she said as she went over and gave him a kiss on his cheek.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou didn\u2019t answer my question, Princess,\u201d Adam winked at Jessica to let her know he was going to play with his daughter\u2019s nosiness.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh come on, Daddy, it doesn\u2019t take a rocket science degree to know why we stayed at Uncle Joe\u2019s last night.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI thought we were spending the night so we could play with Little Joe and\u00a0Braiden?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian innocently questioned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, that, too, Peanut, but, well, Mommy and Daddy wanted to spend some alone time together, just the parentals, if you know what I mean,\u201d Emily said as she went and kissed her sister on her head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHuh?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian looked confused.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam was ready to make his daughter\u2019s face turn a thousand shades red, as she had opened the door for him to walk in.\u00a0 <\/span>He leaned back on the counter and folded his arms against his bare chest and with a big smile said, \u201cGo ahead, explain.\u00a0 <\/span>Tell us, and Jillian, why you thought why Mommy and I wanted to be alone last night, Princess?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian mocked her daddy.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica, not wanting to be left out, went over to Adam, put her arms around his waist, he moved his arms and cuddled her into his body, and she said with a big grin, \u201cWe\u2019re waiting, Emmy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily got flustered, and her face turned beet red.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cYou guys don\u2019t play fair, and you know it!\u201d she said laughing.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Jessica burst out in laughter.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam released Jessica and went over to his daughter and pulled her to his chest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSomethings should remain private between a husband and wife, okay, Princess?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSorry, Daddy.\u00a0 <\/span>I wasn\u2019t trying to be nosy.\u00a0 <\/span>I know you and Mommy still enjoy each other, well, you know…I think it\u2019s kind of cool, that\u2019s all.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian tugged at Jessica\u2019s t-shirt, \u201cMommy, what is Emily talking about?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica looked at her youngest daughter and then at Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUh, Baby Girl, how about you and I have a\u00a0talk later this evening.\u00a0 <\/span>Just the two of us before you go to bed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian seemed to be content with her mother\u2019s answer and requested something to drink. <\/span><\/p>\n

The day was warm and sunny so Adam and the girls decided to take their mounts out for a ride on the Ponderosa.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica stayed back to make reservations for their summer vacation. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica checked her email and found an email from Brianna\u2019s mother, telling her how excited she was they were all coming to Cape Cod for a visit and was sending her the hotel reservations she had made for everyone.\u00a0 <\/span>She wanted to let Adam and Jessica know she and her husband would like them to be their guest while on the Cape and sent the reservations for their rooms at Wequassett Resort and Golf Club.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna\u2019s maternal uncle was the manager of the resort and had reserved rooms for everyone.<\/span><\/p>\n

After telling Brianna and Jason about their trip to Massachusetts, Jessica mentioned since they were coming east, she and Adam would love to meet her parents.\u00a0 <\/span>When Brianna called her folks, they were delighted and thought spending a few days at the Cape would be a perfect place to meet everyone. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica made plane reservations for Adam, herself, Emily, and Jillian to arrive early in the week so they could spend a few days with Jason and Brianna at Cambridge and show the girls their alma mater, Harvard, as well as see the sights of Boston.\u00a0 <\/span>She also made high-speed ferry reservations on the Hy-Line Ferry out of Cape Cod to Nantucket.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica sent an email to Rebecca and Jason giving them the detailed itinerary of their trip. <\/span><\/p>\n

Rebecca was online checking her email when Jessica\u2019s email came through.\u00a0 <\/span>She quickly replied letting Jessica know Dave wanted to spend a day playing golf with Adam and Jason, so she thought it would be fun to have a girls day at Martha\u2019s Vineyard for sightseeing, shopping, and fun.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica knew Emily would enjoy the shopping part.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica looked forward to the sightseeing tour Rebecca mentioned in her email.<\/span><\/p>\n

After getting the travel plans made, Jessica put on some shorts, grabbed a book, and headed for the back deck to read.\u00a0 <\/span>She fell asleep reading in the chaise lounge, and when she woke up, her skin was pink from the sun\u2019s rays. <\/span><\/p>\n

She took a shower and bathed herself in vitamin E lotion to help the slight sunburn she received from falling asleep in the sun.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica was putting moisturizer on her face when Adam walked into the bathroom; his clothes were dusty from the day’s long ride he enjoyed with his daughters. <\/span><\/p>\n

He noticed Jessica\u2019s darkening sunburn, and his face turned sour.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt looks worse than it really is.\u00a0 <\/span>It doesn\u2019t hurt at all.\u00a0 <\/span>I fell asleep on the deck reading a book, but I woke up before I could get a terrible sunburn,\u201d she said dropping her towel and heading into the bedroom to get panties, bra, jeans, and a loose shirt to wear.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going to take a shower,\u201d Adam yelled from the bathroom.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cThe girls want to go to Stateline Brewery & Restaurant tonight; how does that sound to you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica walked back into the bathroom as she was putting on her bra, \u201cSounds good if I don\u2019t have to cook,\u201d she winked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam laughed and got in the shower. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica went to check on her daughter\u2019s progress.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily had taken a shower and was running a bath for Jillian to get in next.\u00a0 <\/span>She saw her oldest daughter wrapped in a towel so she went and grabbed a robe to put on so she could go into her room and finish getting dressed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll take over from here with Jillian, you go get dressed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMom!\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re so red!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt looks worse than it feels.\u00a0 <\/span>It really doesn\u2019t hurt at all.\u00a0 <\/span>I fell asleep reading a book on the deck.\u00a0 <\/span>Besides, you got a little color too, I see!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Stroking her daughter\u2019s cheeks. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, we took the horses on a long walk and then we trotted them through the meadows.\u00a0 <\/span>It was so much fun.\u00a0 <\/span>We haven\u2019t done that in a really long time with just Daddy.\u00a0 <\/span>Thanks for suggesting it, Mommy,\u201d Emily kissed her mother on her cheek.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian came into the bathroom buck naked and said like a diva, \u201cI\u2019m ready for my bath now!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI see you\u2019ve been hanging out with your sister too much.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019ve been influenced by her lack of modesty, young lady.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s modesty, Mommy?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica looked at Emily and smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>She then knelt down to Jillian\u2019s level and took her naked innocent child into her arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI guess that\u2019s another thing I\u2019ll have to discuss with you tonight when we get you ready for bed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica then patted her daughter\u2019s naked bum and told her to get in the bath, because she was hungry and ready for dinner.<\/span><\/p>\n

The family enjoyed a casual dinner.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica and Adam tried a couple of specialty house brews which they enjoyed very much with their meal.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily asked if she could try a sip of her mother\u2019s beer and she allowed her her very first taste of alcohol.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily\u2019s face grimaced when she tasted it.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s gross!\u201d she bellowed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Jessica had a hearty laugh at Emily\u2019s scrunched up face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan I try it, too?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian asked curiously.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure, why not, Sweetpea,\u201d Adam said as he allowed her to taste from his glass.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMmmm, I like it!\u201d she smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cReally?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily turned to her sister.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cIt\u2019s nasty tasting!\u00a0 <\/span>I guess I\u2019ll probably be more of a wine drinker.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow do you know, Honey?\u00a0 <\/span>You might not like wine either,\u201d Jessica said as she took a drink from her beer.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan I try a glass at home sometime?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily inquired. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot a whole glass, Princess, but you can try a taste from Mommy\u2019s or my glass the next time we have some with dinner.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Daddy!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily sat up straight.\u00a0 <\/span>She felt as if her parents were finally allowing her to grow up a little bit.<\/span><\/p>\n

Upon their return back home, Emily went to her room and got on her phone to call Trey.\u00a0 <\/span>She missed him greatly since they had spent most of the weekend with Uncle Joe, Aunt Donna, and then time at their ranch house.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily didn\u2019t seem to mind too much because she was having a great time, but she was starting to miss him and wanted to hear his voice.\u00a0 <\/span>Since they were driving back to Carson City after church on Sunday, she made plans for him to come over Sunday night for a few hours.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Saturday night was drawing to a close, Jessica helped Jillian get her pajamas on, and the two girls went into the office where Adam was working on the computer.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian leaped into Adam\u2019s lap to give him a kiss and hug goodnight.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, Daddy.\u00a0 <\/span>I had fun today!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam kissed his daughter on the forehead and told her he loved her as well and told her they would spend a day during her summer vacation from school, just the two of them together.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian\u2019s eyes lit up with excitement.\u00a0 <\/span>She couldn\u2019t wait to have some alone time with her daddy and their horses. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOff you go,\u201d he said as he sat her down on her feet. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be in to tuck you in in just a minute, Baby Girl,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica yelled as her daughter skipped off to her room.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica plopped down into Adam\u2019s lap and laid her head on his shoulder.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam wrapped his arms around his woman and kissed her on her neck as she sighed heavily.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou ready to have the talk with Jillian, Babe?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, I guess so.\u00a0 <\/span>I was noticing tonight when I was washing her hair before dinner, her breasts are starting to blossom just a bit.\u00a0 <\/span>It won\u2019t be long before we have to start shopping for her first bra, Adam.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span>My baby\u2019s growing up!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica frowned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you going to discuss with her tonight?\u00a0 <\/span>Her body maturing, or are you going to explain sex to her as well?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I don\u2019t know.\u00a0 <\/span>I guess I\u2019ll start with talking about her breasts maturing, and then tell her about her monthly cycle that probably isn\u2019t too far around the corner now, and if that\u2019s enough, I\u2019ll stop there.\u00a0 <\/span>If I think she can handle the rest, we can talk about sex, too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s a mature little girl, Jess.\u00a0 <\/span>I bet she\u2019ll be able to handle it all.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica turned to Adam, pounded on his chest and laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, easy for you to say.\u00a0 <\/span>You just had to explain wet dreams and sex to our son.\u00a0 <\/span>You got off pretty easy only having to explain it once.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, you don\u2019t know all the times little miss diva came to me when we were divorced and had a million uncomfortable questions!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica laughed and laid her head back on Adam\u2019s shoulder.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, I guess you\u2019re right, Babe.\u00a0 <\/span>I tend to want to forget about those dark years.\u00a0 <\/span>I wish I could take away those painful years from Jason and Emily.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Babe, me, too,\u201d Adam sighed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam pat Jessica on the hip and told her to go on, talk to Jillian and tuck her in.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going!\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m going!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica laughed as she left the office dragging her feet.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam laughed as he put his reading glasses back on, and returned back to his work on the computer.<\/span><\/p>\n

When Jessica entered Jillian\u2019s room, she sat down on Jillian’s bed and Jillian got on her mother’s lap.\u00a0 <\/span>She asked Jillian if she noticed her breasts were starting to grow a little and Jillian nodded she had.\u00a0 <\/span>She pulled up her pajama top to show her mommy.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I noticed when you were in the bathtub tonight, Baby Girl.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica went on to explain about how her body was maturing, what all it meant, what would probably start changing next and how when the time came for her minstrel cycle, she needed to tell her so she could get her the feminine products she would need.\u00a0 <\/span>She told her if it should happen at school, she was to go to the nurse\u2019s office, and she would help her out.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian was not too excited about the thought of starting her period, but Jessica told her it was all part of how God built women.\u00a0 <\/span>She went onto explained when she first got her monthly cycle, and since she\u2019d had a complete hysterectomy, she would no longer have one. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica felt Jillian understood everything she was explaining to her so she decided to continue to explain sex and the importance of abstinence until marriage.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou see, Baby Girl, your body, is very sacred to you and God.\u00a0 <\/span>Daddy is the only man who has touched my body.\u00a0 <\/span>Because we love each other, we wanted to give ourselves to each other, and this is how you, Emily, and Jason were conceived,\u201d Jessica said as she hugged her daughter.<\/span><\/p>\n

Since Jillian was not around during Jessica and Adam\u2019s divorce, she didn\u2019t feel she needed to tell her about her time with Clint.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily had never mentioned Clint again after their break-up, and she hoped he was not someone she would remember.\u00a0 <\/span>If the time came later, and Jillian found out about Clint, she would come clean with her then, but for now, she wanted to stress the importance of only sharing her body with the man she loved and would marry.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou and Daddy did that, and that\u2019s how I was made, Mommy?\u201d Jillian\u2019s face was sour.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica laughed. Yes, Baby Girl, it was.\u00a0 <\/span>I know it seems yucky to you right now, but believe me, when you are older, and you start to like boys, you\u2019ll understand.\u00a0 <\/span>When you fall in love with a man and want to spend the rest of your life with him, you will want to share yourself with him, be intimate with him, and when the time is right, have his baby.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian sighed and rested in her mother\u2019s embrace.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica could tell she was just about at the edge of her understanding, so she decided to end it there.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJust enjoy being my baby girl for right now, my sweet child.\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy doesn\u2019t want you to grow up too fast.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, Mommy.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m so glad you are my Mommy and Daddy is my Daddy,\u201d Jillian turned and hugged Jessica tight around her neck, making her lose balance and fall on the bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBaby Girl, I\u2019ll always be your mommy; even when you become a mommy yourself.\u00a0 <\/span>Now, time to get to sleep!\u00a0 <\/span>We have to get up tomorrow morning and go to church!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica tucked her daughter in, and she kissed her on the forehead goodnight. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, Mommy,\u201d Jillian said as she closed her eyes with a big smile on her face.
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you too, Baby Girl,\u201d Jessica said as she turned out her light and closed the door behind her.<\/span><\/p>\n

She stopped and quietly knocked on Emily\u2019s door.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily invited her mother in, and Jessica opened the door just enough to stick her head in.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t stay up too late, Sweetheart.\u00a0 <\/span>We have to get up early tomorrow.\u00a0 <\/span>Tell Trey I said hello.\u00a0 <\/span>Love you!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Love you, too, Mommy, goodnight.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica shut the door and headed down the hall.\u00a0 <\/span>She stopped at the office and stood in the doorway.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cComing, Adam?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, Babe, I\u2019ll be there in a few minutes.\u00a0 <\/span>Just wrapping up an email to Heather real quick.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAlright, see you in a few,\u201d Jessica said as she started down the hall to their bedroom.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica was just taking off her bra and putting a T-shirt on when Adam came in the room.\u00a0 <\/span>He stripped down to his boxers and got into bed.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica finished hanging up her clothes and cuddled into the middle of the bed with Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo, how\u2019d the talk go?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI explained everything to her.\u00a0 <\/span>I felt she was starting to get sensory overload, so I stopped at falling in love and one day wanting to share her body with her husband.\u00a0 <\/span>I think she understood well enough.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll go more into detail on how babies are made later when she\u2019s older.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica smiled as she remembers when Emily came to her when she first got her monthly visitor.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, she was so horrified, even though we had had the talk a few years before, remember?\u00a0 <\/span>She begged me not to tell you; she was so embarrassed.\u00a0 <\/span>I told her you knew I had it every month, but she made me promise I wouldn’t say anything to you.\u00a0 <\/span>It was so cute.\u00a0 <\/span>I remember I made my mom promise not to tell my daddy either.\u00a0 <\/span>I think every girl does.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sure Jillian will, too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, I remember it like it was yesterday.\u00a0 <\/span>I was a bit sad, I remember.\u00a0 <\/span>I thought, my little girl is a woman now, even though she was just thirteen.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJust think, Adam, we\u2019re going to be grandparents probably within the next five years!\u00a0 <\/span>Jason and Brie are probably going to get married right after college, and it probably won\u2019t be long before they’ll come and tell us they\u2019re going to have a baby of their own.\u00a0 <\/span>Remember how excited Dad was when we told him about Jason?\u00a0 <\/span>He was so happy; my parents were, too!\u00a0 <\/span>Now, he\u2019s all grown up and has found his beloved life partner.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam kissed Jessica on the head and rubbed her back.\u00a0 <\/span>Despite the small two-year dip in the road, our kids have turned out to be amazing. You should be proud of yourself, Mrs. Cartwright.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI am, Mr. Cartwright,\u201d Jessica smiled and closed her eyes, \u201cYou should be, too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Chapter Ten<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

School had let out for the summer for all the Cartwright children and Brianna.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason had spoken with his parents and told them he and Brianna had found summer jobs in Cambridge, and would be staying in Massachusetts instead of coming home.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica knew her son wouldn’t be coming home for the summer, but Adam reminded her Jason was growing up and becoming more independent.\u00a0 <\/span>Both Jason and Brianna told their new employers about the family vacation in July, and they were both granted the time off they needed for the trip.<\/span><\/p>\n

A few days before their departure from Nevada, Jessica was busy packing clothes for her, Adam, and the girls.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam neatly laid out the clothes he wanted to take so Jessica could pack them. She was very finicky on how she packed clothes, so Jessica always had Adam put out his clothes for either a business trip or vacation, and she would pack them for him.\u00a0 <\/span>Whenever Adam arrived at his destination when traveling for business, he always looked forward to unpacking at his hotel because Jessica would leave something sexy along with a note scented with his favorite perfume she wore to remind him of her while he was away.\u00a0 <\/span>She would always laugh and say, \u201cIf the TSA ever opens your luggage, they’ll get an eye full!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

On packing day, Adam knew Jessica would be running around the house, getting things ready and barking at the girls to get their clothes ready for her inspection of what they wanted to bring so she could pack them as well.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam took the time to head up to the Ponderosa to see his father.\u00a0 <\/span>Ben was getting on up in years and the heart attack he’d suffered twelve plus years before had seemed to take a toll on him the older he got.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam worried about his father because he could not live close by as he had when he and Jessica were divorced.\u00a0 <\/span>Hoss still lived on the ranch and was able to keep an eye on him, but as the eldest son, Adam felt he was more responsible for his father\u2019s well-being than his two younger brothers.<\/span><\/p>\n

As he arrived, he found his father sitting on the porch enjoying a glass of iced tea Hop Ling, had made him.\u00a0 <\/span>Hop Ling, one of Hop Sing\u2019s many younger cousins, came to help Ben with Hop Sing now getting on up in years himself.\u00a0 <\/span>Hop Ling always enjoyed coming to visit his cousin at the Ponderosa when he was a young boy because Ben always welcomed him as part of the family.\u00a0 <\/span>He once told his cousin and Ben he would one day like to help when Hop Sing would need more assistance.\u00a0 <\/span>Even though Hop Sing still managed the day to day household operations, Hop Ling would help out with the daily chores like cleaning and cooking to give Hop Sing a break and handle only managerial duties needed to run the main ranch house.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Ben saw his son enter the drive, he smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam noticed right away Ben was not up to his usual self because he was not standing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Dad, how are you feeling today?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked as he got out of his car and headed toward the porch.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Adam, you know me, I\u2019ve had good days and bad.\u00a0 <\/span>Today\u2019s not too bad.\u00a0 <\/span>Just a little shaky, that\u2019s all.\u00a0 <\/span>How\u2019s the family?\u00a0 <\/span>How are my daughter and beautiful grandchildren?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam laughed and shook his head. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJess is great.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s running around the house cleaning, getting the house ready for our departure.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s yelling at the girls to get their clothes ready for packing.\u00a0 <\/span>You know Jess; she\u2019s got to be the one to pack everything.\u00a0 <\/span>Sometimes I don\u2019t know where she gets all her energy.\u00a0 <\/span>When she was recovering from surgery, I had to tie her practically down at times to keep her from getting up and cleaning or doing the laundry.\u00a0 <\/span>The girls were good to help out, and I hired a housekeeping service during the few months when she wasn\u2019t able to do her normal household activities.\u00a0 <\/span>She used to complain the service wasn\u2019t up to her usual standards.\u00a0 <\/span>I told her they did a decent job, and it would do for the time she couldn\u2019t do it herself.\u00a0 <\/span>You know how she is, Dad.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s a good wife, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>She loves you and the girls and wants to make a good home for you. Women like Jessica don\u2019t come along every day.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re a lucky man.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Dad.\u00a0 <\/span>Lucky not once but twice!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo tell me, what do you have planned while you\u2019re gone?\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m glad to see you taking time away from the office. Your brothers will keep things afloat while you\u2019re away.\u00a0 <\/span>You need to spend time with Jess and the kids.\u00a0 <\/span>They deserve to have your undivided attention.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI have to say, Dad, I\u2019m looking forward to getting away, too.\u00a0 <\/span>We leave for Boston in the morning.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019re staying at Jason\u2019s apartment while we\u2019re in Cambridge and Boston.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019ll be a little cramped for all of us, but we\u2019ll make due.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason bought a blow-up mattress for the girls; they\u2019ll sleep in the living room, Jess and I will sleep in the bedroom Brianna is occupying for the summer, and she\u2019ll sleep in Jason\u2019s room while we\u2019re there.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you are okay with her sleeping in Jason\u2019s room, Adam?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Ben looked at his son with a concerned look on his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad, It\u2019s not ideal, but I don\u2019t pretend she doesn\u2019t share his bed already.\u00a0 <\/span>They\u2019re in love; they\u2019re planning to get married.\u00a0 <\/span>My son is an adult now, and I trust him to make the right decisions where he and Brianna are concerned.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI guess I\u2019m from the old-school, Son,\u201d Ben smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI remember courting your mother properly.\u00a0 <\/span>I didn\u2019t even kiss her on the lips until I was serious about her and knew I wanted to marry her.\u00a0 <\/span>We held hands, and I kissed her on the cheek.\u00a0 <\/span>I knew I wanted to marry her after our second date, though.\u00a0 <\/span>Elizabeth was a vivacious woman; so full of life and always wore a smile.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI always loved the stories you told me about her, Dad, and the pictures you showed me of when you two were younger.\u00a0 <\/span>The older Emily gets, the more I see my mother in her.\u00a0 <\/span>She is a true free spirit, just the way you describe Mom.\u00a0 <\/span>I know she would love her grandchildren and Jessica very much.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, she would spoil them rotten!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Ben\u2019s eyes got big, and his smile reached from ear to ear as he talked about his first wife.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cShe used to say when we were first married, \u2018Benjamin,\u2019 she liked to call me Benjamin.\u00a0 <\/span>\u2018Benjamin, when our children are older, married, and have kids of their own, I want to have them over to the house every weekend so we can spend time with them and spoil them rotten.\u2019\u00a0 <\/span>So I would respond, ‘Elizabeth, my love, shouldn\u2019t we have children first?’\u00a0 <\/span>She would hug me laughing and reply, \u2018Yeah, I guess you are right!\u2019\u00a0 <\/span>It was not too much longer when she told me she was expecting you.\u00a0 <\/span>She couldn\u2019t wait for your arrival.\u00a0 <\/span>She always knew she wanted to name you Adam if you were to be a boy.\u00a0 <\/span>She always thought the name was so manly and strong.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat if I had been a girl, Dad, what did she want to name me if I had been a girl?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked relishing the time he was spending talking about his mother with his father.\u00a0 <\/span>Since his father always found it painful to talk about his first wife, whenever Ben wanted to reminisce about her, Adam always took in as much as he could. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf you had been a girl, she wanted to name you after her mother, Amy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben sat there a minute in silence.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam thought his father\u2019s memories of his mother were becoming too painful, and he would want to move on to another conversation, but he continued.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen the doctor laid you on her belly after giving birth, your mother, exhausted from twenty-eight hours of labor and delivery looked at you and smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>She couldn\u2019t wait for the nurses to clean you so she could hold her new baby in her arms.\u00a0 <\/span>When you were all cleaned up, wrapped in a blanket, the nurses handed you to Elizabeth.\u00a0 <\/span>She put you to her breast and helped you latch on.\u00a0 <\/span>Even though you weren\u2019t ready, she wanted immediately to build the bond between you and her,\u201d Ben began to choke up.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cEven if it was just for a few weeks.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam got up, came to his father and wrapped his strong arms around his frail, aging body.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cDad, if it\u2019s too painful, we don\u2019t have to talk about Mom, but I thank you for telling me about my birth.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t think you ever told me the story that I remember.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, your mother was a wonderful human being.\u00a0 <\/span>The virus that attacked her heart after your birth was freak and rare, but it does to this day still affect women, and there is no cure or known reason why it happens.\u00a0 <\/span>Your mother didn\u2019t suffer long.\u00a0 <\/span>Some women live for years with no problems then they are debilitated to the point where they are confined to a wheelchair because their hearts, over time, become so weak.\u00a0 <\/span>Your mother would have never survived having to live in a wheelchair.\u00a0 <\/span>She was too full of life.\u00a0 <\/span>The day she died, all she wanted to do was hold you, she was lying in the hospital bed; she was so weak, she could hardly speak, but she wanted to see and hold you.\u00a0 <\/span>Back then, children weren’t allowed on the ward like they are now, but the doctors and nurses allowed you to be brought in.\u00a0 <\/span>I held you in my arms, and she raised her hand to stroke your cheek.\u00a0 <\/span>Your face lit up.\u00a0 <\/span>Even though you were still too young to smile, your lips turned upward.\u00a0 <\/span>It seemed as if you knew your mother was touching you.\u00a0 <\/span>Your eyes opened, and she could see the new-born blue was already changing to the hazel eyes you have today.\u00a0 <\/span>She said to me weakly, \u2018Look, Benjamin, his eyes are turning.\u00a0 <\/span>I wonder if they will be chocolate like yours.\u2019\u00a0 <\/span>Perhaps, I told her.\u00a0 <\/span>She reminded me of the music box on her dressing table at home. \u00a0She wanted me to put it in your nursery along with her picture so she would always be with you.\u00a0 <\/span>She closed her eyes and breathed her last breath a short time later.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was with Mom when she died, Dad?\u00a0 <\/span>I always thought it was just you in the room when she died.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I had Jane, her best friend, take you back to the waiting room.\u00a0 <\/span>I held her hand until hers went limp in mine.\u00a0 <\/span>I knew she was gone,\u201d Ben took his glasses off and wiped his eyes with the handkerchief he pulled from his pocket.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI came out into the waiting room and announced she had passed.\u00a0 <\/span>Elizabeth\u2019s father, your grandfather, was there.\u00a0 <\/span>He came and hugged me as he tried to fight back his tears.\u00a0 <\/span>Jane could see I needed to hold you.\u00a0 <\/span>You were a part of her, and she lived on in you.\u00a0 <\/span>I held you so close.\u00a0 <\/span>I never wanted to put you down.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI would like to take Jess and the kids to see her grave, Dad, while we\u2019re in Boston,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam whispered quietly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s buried next to her father you know.\u00a0 <\/span>You can visit your grandfather\u2019s grave too, Son,\u201d Ben said as he wiped his eyes again, regaining his composure.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam helped his father up, and they walked back into the house to Ben\u2019s office.\u00a0 <\/span>Ben wrote the name of the cemetery where Elizabeth and her father were both buried because the last time he had been to visit his mother’s grave was when Adam was a student at Harvard. <\/span><\/p>\n

After a hearty lunch, Adam hugged his father and bade him farewell.\u00a0 <\/span>He promised to bring the family back up to the Ponderosa upon their return, and they could all share their vacation memories with him.\u00a0 <\/span>As Adam was about to walk out the door, Ben called back to his son, \u201cPlease give Rebecca my regards, Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled and winked at his father, \u201cI will, Dad.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The day came for Adam and his family to leave for Boston.\u00a0 <\/span>They all had to wake up in the middle of the night to get ready for their early departure from Reno Airport.\u00a0 <\/span>The day of travel would be long and exhausting because their travels would take them via Dallas\/Ft. Worth first. <\/span><\/p>\n

Once they arrived at Boston\u2019s Logan Airport, they saw Jason waiting anxiously on the outside of security.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian saw him first and yelled, \u201cJASON!\u201d and ran to her big brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPeanut! Welcome to Boston!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason said, as he picked up his baby sister and swung her in his arms.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason then greeted Emily with a hug and kiss, as well as his mother.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHi, Dad, welcome back to Boston!\u201d he said as he shook his father\u2019s hand.<\/span><\/p>\n

After collecting their luggage, the family made their way to the car rental stand outside baggage claim and waited to be picked up to get the SUV Adam had reserved for them during their stay. Once the SUV was secured and the luggage was piled in, they headed to Cambridge.<\/span><\/p>\n

When they arrived, Jason showed his family the apartment.\u00a0 <\/span>Since it would be late when they arrived, Brianna stayed back to make a light snack for everyone.\u00a0 <\/span>She didn\u2019t want to have anything heavy but wanted to have something available for them in case they were hungry and wanted something to eat before going to bed. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWelcome!\u201d she said as she hugged and kissed Emily, Jillian, Jessica, and Adam. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid you have a good trip?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe did,\u201d Adam said as he kissed his future daughter-in-law on the forehead.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cLong, though.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank goodness Dad sprang for first class tickets.\u00a0 <\/span>It was long and exhausting!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily added.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI have your blow up mattress already set up in the living room, Emmy, and Jillie.\u00a0 <\/span>Let me show you to the bathroom,\u201d Jason said as he came over to give Brianna a kiss on her cheek.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoney, why don\u2019t you let me show Jessica and the girls the apartment, and you help Adam with the luggage.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason gave his girl another kiss.\u00a0 <\/span>He and Adam headed back to the car and got the luggage and brought it in.\u00a0 <\/span>When the two men arrived at Brianna\u2019s room, where Adam and Jessica would be staying, they found the four girls in the room talking about the upcoming meeting of Brianna\u2019s parents at Cape Cod. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy mom and dad are very excited to meet everyone!\u00a0 <\/span>My uncle sent me an email and told me he has the best accommodations reserved for us all.\u00a0 <\/span>I hope you enjoy the Cape.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s a beautiful place!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt is indeed!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam said as he came up behind Jessica and put his arms around her waist. <\/span><\/p>\n

The family went back to the main area of the apartment, and Jessica prepared the girls\u2019 bed while Jason and Brianna brought out a platter of assorted summer fruits, cheeses, and crackers. Jason grabbed a bottle of wine Brianna\u2019s parents had left from one of their previous visits.\u00a0 <\/span>He poured his parents, Brianna, and himself a glass of wine and gave the girls each a bottle of their favorite soda, as everyone devoured the bedtime snack. <\/span><\/p>\n

The hour was approaching midnight, and Adam said everyone should get some sleep because they needed to get up early and start their sightseeing.\u00a0 <\/span>The plans were to visit M.I.T. and Harvard in the morning.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason wanted to treat the family to lunch at his and Brianna\u2019s favorite eatery at Cambridge: Felipe\u2019s Taqueria near Harvard.\u00a0 <\/span>They would then take the subway into Boston and the Prudential Center at Back Bay to take their tour of Boston via the famous Duck Tours.\u00a0 <\/span>When a full day in Boston was complete, Jason and Brianna would treat the family to dinner at a Boston institution: Legal Seafood.<\/span><\/p>\n

The alarm sounded early.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason climbed out of bed quietly hoping not to wake Brianna.\u00a0 <\/span>He slipped on a pair of jeans and headed into the kitchen.\u00a0 <\/span>Both Emily and Jillian were sleeping soundly as their bodies were still on Pacific time and it was still the middle of the night back home.\u00a0 <\/span>He put on a pot of coffee to brew and headed back into his bedroom to take a shower. When he arrived back in his room, he saw Brianna had gotten up and was already in the shower. She wanted to get an early start so she could make breakfast for everyone while they were getting dressed for the day.\u00a0 <\/span>As she got out of the shower, Jason gave her a good morning kiss as he stripped out of his clothes and got in for a quick shower and shave.<\/span><\/p>\n

When the couple emerged from Jason\u2019s room, they saw Jessica coming from the other room she shared with Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>She had her robe on, and her hair was a mess.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning! Please excuse the way I look.\u00a0 <\/span>I was just going to go in and take a shower so I could get breakfast started for everyone.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMom, you\u2019re on vacation!\u00a0 <\/span>Please, take your time.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna and I are going to make breakfast for everyone.\u00a0 <\/span>You and Dad do what you need to do, and we\u2019ll call you when everything\u2019s ready.\u00a0 <\/span>Tell Dad I have coffee on and Brie will put a kettle of water on for tea.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI have the fruit left over from last night as well as some fresh rolls and pastries I purchased yesterday from a local bakery Jason and I love.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019re going to make some eggs, bacon, and potatoes as well,\u201d Brianna added.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPlease let me know if you need any help.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica insisted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe’ll be all right, Mom.\u00a0 <\/span>Brie is a fantastic cook!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason complimented.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay!\u00a0 <\/span>I get the hint,\u201d Jessica kissed her son\u2019s cheek.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cAre the girls up yet?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen I went to put the coffee on, they were still sleeping soundly.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u00a0 <\/span>know they\u2019ll need to get used to the time change, so I thought I would let them sleep as long as they could.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood thinking.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily will probably be mad if we don\u2019t wake her up in time to put make-up on, however.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAlways the diva, my sister is,\u201d Jason laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019ll soon see how earthy people are here in Cambridge.\u00a0 <\/span>Make-up is not required,\u201d Brianna laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSomethings never change,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica recalled.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cIt was the same way when Adam and I were going to school here, too!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid I hear my name?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked as he opened the door in just his jeans.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning, Dad,\u201d, \u201cGood Morning, Adam,\u201d Jason and Brianna said in unison.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was headed to the bathroom to take a quick shower and get the girls up so they could bathe and get ready for breakfast.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad, if you like, you can take a shower in my bathroom while Mom uses the shower in the main bath,\u201d Jason said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSounds good, Son.\u00a0 <\/span>I need a cup of coffee first, however,\u201d Adam winked as he excused himself and headed toward the kitchen.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll go show him where the mugs are kept,\u201d Brianna smiled as she excused herself. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jason went to the linen closet to get towels for everyone and brought them into the bathroom.\u00a0 <\/span>He opened the shower door and showed his mother the special soap gels and shampoos from the Body Shop Brianna had bought for them to use while they were guests at their apartment.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe wanted you to have every comfort of home.\u00a0 <\/span>She had a checklist she took with her each time she headed out to do some shopping.\u00a0 <\/span>She wanted to set a good impression,\u201d Jason said proudly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s a good partner for you, Honey.\u00a0 <\/span>We love her very much.\u00a0 <\/span>We couldn\u2019t have picked a more suitable mate for you.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m just sorry I gave her such a hard time in the beginning,\u201d Jessica commented as she took the towels from Jason.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMom, we know now why you were fine one minute and judgmental the next.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re finally back to the mother I know and love.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna loves you, Dad, and the girls. \u00a0She feels like a Cartwright already!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad and I already consider her our daughter, Honey,\u201d Jessica hugged her son.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cTell Dad his shaving kit is still in his suitcase will you?\u00a0 <\/span>I shouldn\u2019t be long,\u201d Jessica said as she shut the door.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam was sitting at the table in the dining room off the living area drinking his coffee and reading the financial section of the Boston Globe when Emily awakened by the sun, the movement, and adults talking.\u00a0 <\/span>She got up from the air mattress she shared with Jillian and came and sat in her daddy\u2019s lap.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMorning, Daddy,\u201d Emily said in a sleepy voice as she kissed Adam\u2019s cheek.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMorning, Princess,\u201d Adam responded as he took a drink of his coffee and kept reading his newspaper.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy, do you ever read anything other than the financials?\u00a0 <\/span>There\u2019s so much more to life than money and making money,\u201d Emily said as she laid her head against her father\u2019s, putting her arms around his neck.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPrincess, Daddy enjoys reading the financials.\u00a0 <\/span>Besides, I have to keep making money so we can all live, and I can keep you, Mommy, and Jillian in the lifestyle to which you\u2019ve become accustomed,\u201d Adam said as he pinched Emily\u2019s nose.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI guess I should get a move on myself!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam said after he finished his second cup of coffee and patted Emily on the hip for her to get up.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI put some towels on your bed, Dad.\u00a0 <\/span>Mom said your shaving kit’s in your bag still,\u201d Jason said from the kitchen as he took over for Brianna while she went to make the bed in the guest bedroom while Jessica was in the shower.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll get it for you, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Why don\u2019t you go get in the shower and I\u2019ll put it on the counter in the bathroom for you,\u201d Jessica said as she came up the hall drying her hair.<\/span><\/p>\n

When Jessica returned to the guest room, she found Brianna in the room making the bed.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWould you like me to finish later, Jessica, so you can get dressed?\u00a0 <\/span>I just wanted to tidy your room so you would have things orderly when you got dressed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI think I now know why my son loves you so much.\u00a0 <\/span>We are very much alike!\u201d Jessica laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason says you and I have much of the same cleaning habits; that you like everything to have its place.\u00a0 <\/span>He says I\u2019m obsessed with cleanliness.\u00a0 <\/span>I guess I\u2019m just used to it from when I was growing up.\u00a0 <\/span>Since Mom traveled so much when my brother and I were younger, we had housekeepers who took care of the house and it was always so clean.\u00a0 <\/span>It just rubbed off on me,\u201d Brianna blushed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, you won\u2019t get any complaints from me!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica grinned as she helped Brianna finish making the bed.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cAre you sure I can\u2019t help you with breakfast?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason\u2019s got it all under control at the moment.\u00a0 <\/span>I told him I wanted to come in here and make up your bed quickly while you were in the shower.\u00a0 <\/span>He was getting ready to put on the eggs.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll let you be so you can finish getting dressed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

After Brianna had left to go back to the kitchen to help Jason, Jessica took Adam\u2019s shaving kit and his robe into Jason\u2019s bathroom so he could trim his beard and have his robe to put on before coming back to their room.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily was the next to take a shower in the main bath, and Jessica returned to her room to put on a pink sleeveless Ralph Lauren Polo knit shirt and white cotton crop pants with white sandals. <\/span><\/p>\n

After getting dressed, she realized Jillian was still sleeping soundly and went to wake her up so she could take a shower after Adam got out.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJillian, sweetie, time to get up!\u00a0 <\/span>Jason and Brianna have breakfast almost ready for us.\u00a0 <\/span>You need to take a shower, Baby Girl,\u201d Jessica said in a soft sweet tone.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian didn\u2019t respond right away; she was still on Pacific Daylight Time, and it was the middle of the night in Nevada still.\u00a0 <\/span>After a few more nudges, Jillian finally opened her eyes and smiled at her mother who was kneeling down brushing her tangled hair from her face. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning, Baby Girl!\u00a0 <\/span>Did you sleep well?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked as Jillian sat up.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sleepy, Mommy,\u201d Jillian said with a tired voice, wiping her eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Baby Girl.\u00a0 <\/span>A warm shower should help you wake up.\u00a0 <\/span>Let\u2019s go see if Daddy\u2019s finished in Jason\u2019s room.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica and Jillian headed to the master bathroom where they found the door shut. Jessica popped her head in to make sure Adam had at least a towel around his waist before bringing in Jillian. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam was just beginning to put shaving cream on his face when Jessica and Jillian came in.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi Daddy,\u201d Jillian said as she started to take off her nightgown.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning, Sweet Pea,\u201d Adam replied as he began to shave his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica turned on the shower for Jillian, and she got in once the water was at a perfect warm temperature. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam finished his shave when Jillian finished.\u00a0 <\/span>He handed her a towel and put on his robe, tying it before pulling his towel from his waist.\u00a0 <\/span>He realized Jillian\u2019s robe was still in her suitcase, so he had her come into the room where he and Jessica were staying.\u00a0 <\/span>He had Jessica get the clothes she wanted her to wear from her suitcase.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica took her into Jason\u2019s room to finish getting dressed so Adam could put on his black walking shorts and red Izod shirt Jessica had pulled out for him to wear. <\/span><\/p>\n

When he came into the dining room, he found Emily dressed in a white cotton sleeveless button down shirt, blue jean pedal pushers and sneakers, drinking a cup of tea and reading the style section of the newspaper.<\/span><\/p>\n

After everyone had eaten a big hearty breakfast, Jason and Brianna did the dishes and everyone headed out to the nearest bus stop to head into Cambridge so Adam and Jessica could show the girls where they went to school, met, and fell in love.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason looked forward to showing them where he was going to school also.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason surprised his family by buying each of them a seven-day subway and bus Charlie Card so they wouldn’t have to keep buying tickets whenever they wanted to hop on a bus or subway.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam tried to give him money to reimburse him for the expenses, but Jason wouldn\u2019t have it.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou, Mom, and the girls are our guests, Dad.\u00a0 <\/span>We wanted to do it.\u00a0 <\/span>Besides, you and Mom are graciously paying for the rest of our trip this week; it\u2019s the least Brie and I could do.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam patted his son on his back and thanked him on behalf of the rest of the family for their thoughtfulness.<\/span><\/p>\n

Since the bus they took stopped at Harvard Square, the family got off and walked around looking at the area with part of the school in the background. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis brings back so many memories doesn\u2019t it, Adam?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said looking around, smiling broadly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt sure does, Babe,\u201d Adam said as he wrapped his arms around Jessica\u2019s waist.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cShall we take the kids over to see John Harvard\u2019s statue and let them rub his shoe?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSounds good!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said looking up at Adam as he leaned down to drop a quick kiss on her lips.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the family headed to Harvard Yard where the statue of John Harvard stood, Adam gave a brief history on the school and its infamous statue. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe statue of John Harvard is also known as the statue of three lies.\u00a0 <\/span>The plaque on the statue says John Harvard founded the school, but it got its start by the colonial government of the time.\u00a0 <\/span>They honored Mr. Harvard by naming the school after him because when he died, he left half of his money as well as the library he\u2019d built to the school.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are the other two lies, Daddy?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily asked as she wrapped her arm through Adam\u2019s as they walked toward the center of campus.<\/span><\/p>\n

The second lie is the school was started in 1836, but in actuality, the school started in 1838; it’s the oldest school of higher education in the country.\u00a0 <\/span>The third lie is the statue is not John Harvard.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean, Daddy?\u00a0 <\/span>If it\u2019s not John Harvard, who is it?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily was more intrigued. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Princess, John Harvard died without having any portraits made of him, so when they commissioned Daniel Chester French to create the statue, he used a friend of his as his model. When we arrive at the statue, you\u2019ll notice his legs are very skinny.\u00a0 <\/span>Mr. Harvard had tuberculosis, and one of the symptoms is thin legs, so Mr. French made sure that he depicted Harvard with this symptom.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Jason then piped in and explained in 1996, some students of M.I.T. dressed the beloved statue as the Unibomber, Ted Kaczynski, who was a Harvard Alumni of 1962.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHarvard has many famous alumni, both good and bad,\u201d Jessica added.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once they arrived at the statue, they waited patiently as a bus load of Japanese tourist finished taking their picture in front of the statue.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian noted each of them was rubbing Harvard\u2019s shoe.\u00a0 <\/span>She tapped her mother\u2019s arm and asked why they were all rubbing his shoe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBaby Girl, it is a tradition started by some graduating students of Harvard.\u00a0 <\/span>They walk to the statue on graduation day and rub his foot for good luck for the rest of their lives after graduation.\u00a0 <\/span>Now, visitors from all over the world also rub his foot for good luck as well.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

After showing the children around Harvard, the family jumped on the subway and got off at Kendall\/M.I.T..\u00a0 <\/span>Jason could hardly contain his enthusiasm; he was so excited to show his family where he attended college.\u00a0 <\/span>He and Adam came to M.I.T. the summer before his freshman year to decide if he would live in campus housing or buy a home off campus.\u00a0 <\/span>Since they decided on the latter, they spent most of their time looking for an apartment and didn\u2019t get much time to look around the campus. Jason now could show his parents and sisters the campus he called home nine months out of the year. <\/span><\/p>\n

The first thing Jason wanted to show his family was the famous M.I.T. Infinite Corridor.\u00a0 <\/span>As they entered the corridor, Jason began to give a narrative about the corridor and why it was so famous.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe Infinite Corridor is a hallway 251 meters (825 feet, 0.16 miles) long.\u00a0 <\/span>It runs through the main buildings of M.I.T.. Specifically, parts of the buildings numbered 7, 3, 4, 8, and 10.\u00a0 <\/span>The corridor is important not only because it links these buildings, but also because it serves as the most direct indoor route between the east and west ends of the campus.\u00a0 <\/span>The design of the corridor is the central spine of the original set of M.I.T. buildings designed by William W. Bosworth in 1913.\u00a0 <\/span>Traffic in the corridor can be quite heavy at times with students, faculty, and employees of M.I.T..\u00a0 <\/span>In fact, several pranksters have placed traffic signals, lane markings, and highway-like signs along its length as a joke in years past.<\/span><\/p>\n

Twice per year, at 4:19 P.M. (local time) on November 12 and at 4:49 P.M. on January 31, the corridor lines up with the plane of the ecliptic, causing sunlight to fill the entire corridor; the students and staff celebrate these events.<\/span><\/p>\n

The center of the Infinite Corridor which looks to Killian Court has tables for different student’s groups pushing their causes.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As they walked the corridor, Jason continued to tell his family different stories about things the students would do for some of the many international students who would visit M.I.T.. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSeveral years ago, there was a group of students from Africa who came visit for two weeks during the winter.\u00a0 <\/span>It had snowed, and they enjoyed seeing the snow on the ground, but they were sad because they had not seen it fall.\u00a0 <\/span>There was not another snowfall for most of the month so, on Friday before they were scheduled to return to Africa, some students got together, made fake snow, and decorated the area as a winter wonderland.\u00a0 <\/span>They wanted their friends to have a winter party.\u00a0 <\/span>The African students felt so special the fellow students had created a snowfall; they were in tears.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat a lovely thing for the students to do for the African visitors. I \u2019m sure they had never seen snow up until that point,\u201d Jessica commented.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason knew there were many things he wanted to show his family around the Infinite Corridor: The Pappalardo Lab, which is impressive, and some of the conference rooms that are truly works of art.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason then took the family to Killian Court, which overlooks the Charles River. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIn the spring, the students will come here to eat lunch and study.\u00a0 <\/span>On some weekends, Brie and I will pack a picnic lunch, bring our books and go study here.\u00a0 <\/span>The area is so beautiful and relaxing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason then took his family to the large student center where there was everything imaginable for the students from a food court to quiet rooms; there were also lounge chairs for studying during the cold months.\u00a0 <\/span>He also showed them the athletic center also quite impressive. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jason saved the best for last; the Stata Center.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason knew Adam would enjoy it the most because it is a marvel of Architecture.\u00a0 <\/span>The Ray and Maria Stata Center (or Building 32) is a 720,000-square-foot (67,000 m2) academic complex designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Frank Gehry for M.I.T..\u00a0 <\/span>As they entered the building, Jason began to explain the building\u2019s history to his family.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe building opened for initial occupancy on March 16, 2004.\u00a0 <\/span>It sits on the site of M.I.T.’s former Building 20, which housed the historic Radiation Laboratory, at Cambridge, Massachusetts.<\/span><\/p>\n

Above the fourth floor, the building splits into two distinct structures: the Gates tower and the Dreyfoos tower.\u00a0 <\/span>Contained within the building are the Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, the Laboratory for Information and Decision Systems, as well as the Department of Linguistics and Philosophy.\u00a0 <\/span>Academic celebrities such as Noam Chomsky, Rodney Brooks, and Ron Rivest have offices here.\u00a0 <\/span>World Wide Web Consortium founder Tim Berners-Lee and free software movement founder Richard Stallman also have offices within. Several M.I.T. classes, including many taught by the computer science and electrical engineering department (Course VI), are held inside this building.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis is quite a place.\u00a0 <\/span>Thanks for showing it to us, Son,\u201d Adam said as he looked around at all of the architectural marvels of the complex.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason then took his family to the Forbes Family Caf\u00e9, which located in the Stata Center, for a cup of coffee to plan out the rest of the day, and getting back on the subway to head back Harvard Square for lunch at Felipe\u2019s.<\/span><\/p>\n

As they were leaving the building, heading back toward the subway entrance, Jason gave one last narrative about the famous Stata building.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIn contrast to the trend at M.I.T. of referring to buildings by their numbers rather than their official names, the complex is usually referred to as “Stata”, or “The Stata Center.”\u00a0 <\/span>The two towers are often called G Tower” and D Tower.”<\/span><\/p>\n

After a short inbound ride on the red line back to Harvard, the Cartwrights and Brianna all headed toward \u2018The Garage; an old building renovated into a retail and eating establishment.\u00a0 <\/span>The Garage was bustling with summer school students, locals on their lunch break as well as tourists.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason and Brianna were excited to treat Adam, Jessica, and the girls to lunch at a favorite Mexican fast food place they had found one Saturday when they had come to visit a few of the Harvard museums.\u00a0 <\/span>Felipe\u2019s Taqueria. <\/span><\/p>\n

As they walked through The Garage toward Felipe\u2019s, Brianna explained the history of the taqueria as well as the owner himself, whom Jason and Brianna had the pleasure to meet on many of their occasions they would stop in for a quick bite to eat.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know you will all love this place.\u00a0 <\/span>Felipe, the owner, is from Central America.\u00a0 <\/span>He immigrated to the USA without speaking any English and hardly a dime to his name.\u00a0 <\/span>He worked hard as a dishwasher in several restaurants and then found his way to another popular Mexican fast food place down near Porter Square called Ana\u2019s.\u00a0 <\/span>His dream was to one-day own a taqueria of his own and with the help of some trusted friends, who encouraged him and helped him with financing, in April 2004, he opened Felipe\u2019s Taqueria here at Harvard Square.\u00a0 <\/span>His Taqueria has been so successful here in Cambridge; he opened another Felipe’s Taqueria in New Orleans as well.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Jason explained the freshness of all the ingredients Felipe puts into the food on his menu, from the fresh tortillas to the fresh vegetables used in the tacos, salsa, and guacamole. <\/span><\/p>\n

Everyone made their order and sat down to eat. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh my goodness you weren\u2019t kidding, this burrito is fantastic!\u201d Jessica said, wiping her mouth as she took her first bite.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe tacos are great, too, Mommy,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily commented as she took a drink of her soda.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou have to try the salsa and guacamole, Jess, it\u2019s phenomenal,\u201d Adam said as he took another chip from the basket and dipped it into the fresh made salsa.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m telling you, Dad, nothing here Brie or I have tried, has ever been bad.\u00a0 <\/span>We enjoy it so much; we try to make it over here at least a couple of times a month.\u00a0 <\/span>During the school year, you see students in here at all times of the day and night.\u00a0 <\/span>Brie and I have had a few late night snack attacks, and we\u2019ll hop on the bus or subway to grab some food and take it home to eat while we study.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ve been in here before when they were making a bunch of burritos for a catering event.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s a popular place for locals and tourists.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

After lunch, everyone hopped back on the subway for their connection from the red line to the orange line which would take them to Back Bay and the Prudential Center where they would pick up their city tour of Boston via the famous Duck Tour.<\/span><\/p>\n

Upon arrival at Back Bay, the Cartwrights and Brianna headed toward the Prudential Center not too far from the subway station.\u00a0 <\/span>When Emily realized the Prudential Center was a shopping mall as well as a business park, she made it known she would like to check out the shops if there was time after the Duck Tour.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam laughed and hugged his daughter.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf we have time, Princess, you can look at a few stores.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe shopping is much better at Copley Plaza,\u201d Brianna commented, as they took their place in line for the tour.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t go enabling my sister, Brie,\u201d Jason teased as he put his arms around her waist from the back and kissed her cheek, \u201cShe’s a shopaholic.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve tried to get her to go to SA, but she refuses to admit she has a problem.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve told her it\u2019s quite simple.\u00a0 <\/span>You go to the meeting and say, \u2018Hi, my name is Emily, and I\u2019m a shopaholic,\u2019 but she just tries to beat me up instead.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLike right now, you mean, older brother?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily reached over, messed his hair up, and beat on his shoulder as she, Brianna, Jason, and Jillian all burst out in laughter.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Jessica inquired what they were laughing about when they returned with the tour tickets. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re having a go at Emily\u2019s expense,\u201d Jason explained to his parents.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t help it if I was born to shop!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily said raising her nose in the air and folding her arms across her waist.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe comes by it honestly, Son. Your mother has the same illness,\u201d Adam said as Jessica bopped him in the arm, smiling.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica went to Emily and put her arm around her daughter\u2019s waist and said to her, as she looked at Adam, \u201cWe\u2019ll have to make Daddy pay for that statement when we get to Nantucket won\u2019t we, Princess?\u201d She winked at Adam and exaggerated the word, Princess, the endearing name Adam had called his daughter since the day she was born. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, Mommy, I like your idea!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily said taking a stand with her mother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, me, too!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian joined forces with her sister and mother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I can\u2019t be left out.\u00a0 <\/span>Sorry, Jason!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna joined the group of other Cartwright women.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason headed over to his father and put his hand on Adam\u2019s shoulder and with a worried look on his face, he said, \u201cUh, Dad, you think the girls are going to make our wallets pay for our teasing?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, you better get used to it now, Son.\u00a0 <\/span>When the girls gang up on you, just send up the white flag and hand over your credit cards,\u201d Adam grinned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t forget the cash, Sweetheart.\u00a0 <\/span>It spends just as well as the plastic,\u201d Jessica smiled back and came over to hug her two gorgeous men.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re generous with the girls and me, and this is one of the reasons we love you so much,\u201d Jessica hugged her man and looked up for a kiss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, too, Jess,\u201d Adam said as he gave her a quick, gentle kiss.<\/span><\/p>\n

The amphibious vehicle from the previous tour pulled up and let the passengers off.\u00a0 <\/span>As the tour guide was ready to start embarking the new tour aboard the Bean Town Betty<\/em>, he made sure everyone in line had tickets for the current tour\u2019s time.\u00a0 <\/span>Once he took everyone\u2019s tickets, they were allowed to board the vessel.\u00a0 <\/span>After a brief safety overview and description of where the tour would take them, the tour was on its way to see the highlights of Boston and the Boston Harbor via land and sea.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the tour began, the tour operator gave information about their embarkation site; the Prudential Center.\u00a0 <\/span>The tour guide explained the Prudential Tower is Boston\u2019s second tallest building and has an observation floor called the Skywalk View and Observatory.\u00a0 <\/span>On a clear day -or night- you can see all of Boston’s incredible view. <\/span><\/p>\n

The next stop on the tour was the Christian Science Center.\u00a0 <\/span>The guide explained Boston is the home to the world headquarters of the Christian Science Church.\u00a0 <\/span>He also noted the Christian Science Monitor newspaper is published out of the building and is an award-winning newspaper.<\/span><\/p>\n

The tour drove through the heavy Boston traffic down to the Trinity Church and John Hancock Tower.\u00a0 <\/span>The tour guide operator explained the church is one of ten marvelous examples of architecture in the United States.\u00a0 <\/span>He also noted the John Hancock Tower standing sixty-three stories tall is the tallest building in New England.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad, the John Hancock Tower is amazing!\u00a0 <\/span>Brie and I went and visited there this past spring.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s an architect’s and engineer\u2019s dream building!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason whispered to his father.<\/span><\/p>\n

The tour then took the passengers to the Boston Public Gardens.\u00a0 <\/span>The guide advised the Boston Gardens is the oldest public garden in the United States.\u00a0 <\/span>The Swan Boats have operated in the Public Garden since 1877.\u00a0 <\/span>In the summer months, the Public Garden is also the home of two resident swans, Romeo and Juliet.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI wanna go see Romeo and Juliet, Mommy!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian exclaimed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe plan to go tomorrow, Baby Girl, when we do the Freedom Trail.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span>Mommy wants to see them, too!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The tour\u2019s amphibious vehicle then passed by the Make Way for Ducklings<\/em> Statues.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span>The tour guide told everyone the statues created by Nancy Schoon are inspired by the children’s book, Make Way for Ducklings<\/strong><\/em> by Robert McCloskey.\u00a0 <\/span>It is the story of Mrs. Mallard and her eight ducklings. The book is the official children\u2019s book of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI want to be sure and get pictures of the kids with the duckling statues, Adam,\u201d Jessica leaned over and told her husband.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam nodded in agreement.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the tour meandered through the traffic, their next stop was the Robert Gould Shaw Memorial. \u201cThe Robert Gould Shaw Memorial is considered to be the nation\u2019s finest Civil War Monument created by noted sculptor Augustus Stain-Gaudens,\u201d the tour guide explained.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the tour continued, the next stop took them to Beacon Hill and the State House.\u00a0 <\/span>The tour guide continued his educational commentary.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWith its gas street lamps and brick sidewalks, Beacon Hill is one of Boston\u2019s most beautiful neighborhoods.\u00a0 <\/span>The Massachusetts State House is the oldest state house in the nation.\u00a0 <\/span>Sam Adams and Paul Revere laid the cornerstone in 1795.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, I read about Samuel Adam and Paul Revere in school this past year!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian grinned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis brings it all into real clear view doesn\u2019t it, Baby Girl?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica smiled as she hugged her daughter sitting next to her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUh huh,\u201d Jillian nodded as she took a lot of interest in the latest tourist stop.<\/span><\/p>\n

After several delays because of traffic, the tour came to its next stop on the tour; TD Garden.\u00a0 <\/span>The tour guide explained TD Garden is the home of the Boston Celtics and Boston Bruins.\u00a0 <\/span>It also hosts concerts and Ringling Brothers, Barnum & Bailey Circus.\u00a0 <\/span>It’s also the home to the North MTA Commuter Rail station and the Downeaster Amtrak train service from North Station to Portland, Maine, with several stops in between.<\/span><\/p>\n

As they meandered into the museum area, the tour took them to the Museum of Science.\u00a0 <\/span>The tour operator explained this landmark is also another departure point for the Duck Tours, and the museum itself offers every member of the family an exciting learning experience.<\/span><\/p>\n

The amphibious vehicle then made a splash down into the Charles River.\u00a0 <\/span>As the tour sailed across the river, the passengers were afforded a magnificent view of the Boston and Cambridge skylines and river parks.\u00a0 <\/span>The tour guide explained the Charles River was named after King Charles I.\u00a0 <\/span>He also talked about the two world famous universities at Cambridge:\u00a0 <\/span>Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.\u00a0 <\/span>During the boat portion of the tour, the driver invited any passenger who would like, to come up and steer the boat.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica urged Jillian to go up and sit in the driver\u2019s seat so she could take her picture steering the amphibious boat.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam tried to get Emily to go up as well, but being a teenager, she didn’t feel it was something cool to do.\u00a0 <\/span>After the tour around the Charles River, the amphibious vehicle made landfall again and headed to its next stop on the tour, Bunker Hill Monument.\u00a0 <\/span>As they drove past the monument, the tour guide explained the Battle of Bunker Hill was fought on June 17, 1775, and fifty years later, on June 17, 1825, the monument\u2019s cornerstone was laid.\u00a0 <\/span>The tour guide continued.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon’t fire until you see the whites of their eyes!”\u00a0 <\/span>This legendary order had come to symbolize the conviction and determination of the ill-equipped American colonists facing powerful British forces during the famous battle fought on this site on June 17, 1775.\u00a0 <\/span>The battle is popularly known as “The Battle of Bunker Hill” although most of the fighting took place on Breed’s Hill, the site of the existing monument and exhibit lodge.\u00a0 <\/span>Today, a 221-foot granite obelisk marks the site of the first major battle of the American Revolution.<\/span><\/p>\n

The Battle of Bunker Hill pitted a newly formed and inexperienced colonial army against the more highly trained and better-equipped British.\u00a0 <\/span>Despite the colonial army’s shortcomings, it was led by such capable men as Colonel William Prescott, Colonel John Stark and General Israel Putnam, who had experience fighting alongside the British in the French and Indian War.\u00a0 <\/span>Although the British Army ultimately prevailed in the battle, the colonists greatly surprised the British by repelling two major assaults and inflicting significant casualties.\u00a0 <\/span>Out of the 2,200 British ground forces and artillery engaged at the battle, almost half (1,034) were counted afterward as casualties (both killed and wounded).\u00a0 <\/span>The colonists lost between 400 and 600 combined casualties, including popular patriot leader and newly-elected Major-General Dr. Joseph Warren, killed during the third and final assault.<\/span><\/p>\n

The first monument on the site was an 18-foot wooden pillar with a gilt urn erected in 1794 by King Solomon’s Lodge of Masons to honor fallen patriot and Mason, Dr. Joseph Warren.\u00a0 <\/span>In 1823, a group of prominent citizens formed the Bunker Hill Monument Association to construct a more permanent and significant monument to commemorate the famous battle.\u00a0 <\/span>The existing monument finally was completed in 1842 and dedicated on June 17, 1843, in a major national ceremony.\u00a0 <\/span>The exhibit lodge was built in the late nineteenth century to house a statue of Dr. Warren.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Heading down to the Boston Harbor, the next site was the oldest commissioned warship still afloat in the world today:\u00a0 <\/span>The USS Constitution. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOld Ironside, they\u2019ve named this Grand Dame.\u00a0 <\/span>She launched in Boston in 1797.\u00a0 <\/span>It promotes the United States Navy and America\u2019s naval heritage through educational outreach, public access and historical demonstrations, import, and underway.\u00a0 <\/span>The ship is open for free guided tours throughout the year.\u00a0 <\/span>Each tour is narrated by several of USS Constitution’s active-duty United States Sailors and consists of four stations through the ship’s top three decks, with tours beginning every half-hour from 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.\u00a0 <\/span>Each tour can accommodate approximately 80 people.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As the tour continued, the driver drove across the Leonard P. Zakim\/Bunker Hill Bridge. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe Leonard P. Zakim Bunker Hill Memorial Bridge is the world\u2019s widest cable-stayed bridge.\u00a0 <\/span>Part of the Big Dig project in Boston, The Big Dig was the largest highway construction project in the United States.\u00a0 <\/span>The north-bound lanes finished in March 2003, and the south-bound lanes completed in December of the same year.\u00a0 <\/span>The Bridge\u2019s unique styling quickly became an icon for Boston, often featured in the backdrop of national news channels, to establish location and included on tourist souvenirs.\u00a0 <\/span>Zakim Bridge or Bunker Hill Bridge is what Bostonian’s refer it.\u00a0 <\/span>The bridge serves as the northern entrance to and the exit from Boston.\u00a0 <\/span>The Bridge, named after civil rights activist Lenny Zakim and the American colonists who fought the British in the Battle of Bunker Hill. \u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As they made their way to the next stop on the tour, the guide gave them information about the Old North Church.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOur next stop is the Old North Church.\u00a0 <\/span>One if by land, two if by sea.\u00a0 <\/span>The enduring fame of the Old North Church began on the evening of April 18, 1775, when the church sexton, Robert Newman, climbed the steeple and held high two lanterns as a signal from Paul Revere the British were marching to Lexington and Concord by sea and not by land.\u00a0 <\/span>This fateful event ignited the American Revolution.\u00a0 <\/span>The Old North Church is officially known as Christ Church in the City of Boston.\u00a0 <\/span>It was built in 1723 and is the oldest standing church building in Boston.\u00a0 <\/span>In 1775, on the eve of Revolution, the majority of the congregation were loyal to the British King and many held official positions in the royal government, including the Royal Governor of Massachusetts, making Robert Newman’s loyalty to the Patriot cause even more extraordinary.\u00a0 <\/span>The King gave the Old North’s the silver used at services and a Bible. Today the Old North Foundation, a secular, not-for-profit organization, is devoted to the preservation of Old North Church and to creating educational and interpretive programs for students and visitors.\u00a0 <\/span>The Foundation has embarked on a master planning process to restore the church and transform the entire campus into an interactive learning environment.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As the tour continued, they made their way to the next stop on the tour, the Holocaust Memorial, and Union Oyster House.\u00a0 <\/span>As they approached the Holocaust Memorial, the tour guide explained the meaning of the six glass towers.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe New England Holocaust Memorial is a memorial dedicated to the Jews who lost their lives in the Holocaust during World War II, located in Boston, Massachusetts.\u00a0 <\/span>Designed by Stanley Saitowitz and erected in 1995, the memorial consists of six walk under glass towers for visitors. Engraved on the towers are six million numbers which symbolize the six million killed in the Holocaust.\u00a0 <\/span>There are also random messages on the towers.\u00a0 <\/span>Underneath the towers, steam rises through metal grates from a dark floor with twinkling lights on it.\u00a0 <\/span>Each tower symbolizes a different major concentration camp (Majdanek, Chelmno, Sobibor, Treblinka, Belzec, and Auschwitz-Birkenau), but can also be taken to be menorah candles, the six million Jews killed in the Holocaust (one million per column), and the six years the mass extermination took place from 1939-1945.\u00a0 <\/span>Each tower consists of twenty-four individual panels of glass.\u00a0 <\/span>There are Twenty-two panels inscribed with seven digit numbers and two panels inscribed with messages.\u00a0 <\/span>In total, there are 132 panels from the six towers inscribed with numbers.\u00a0 <\/span>However, each panel is identical.\u00a0 <\/span>A single panel contains 17,280 unique numbers, each subsequently repeated throughout the memorial.\u00a0 <\/span>Each eight by ten block, with each block consisting of sets of six numbers, is arranged in a six by six grid.\u00a0 <\/span>In total, there are 2,280,960 non-unique numbers listed on the 132 panels.\u00a0 <\/span>The Boston National Historic Park maintains the site.\u00a0 <\/span>In the 2002 white supremacist terror plot, they targeted the park for destruction.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

After the Holocaust Memorial, the tour guide gave a brief talk about the next stop on the tour, the Old Union Oyster House.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYe Olde Union Oyster House has been open to diners since 1826.\u00a0 <\/span>It is the oldest restaurant in the United States.\u00a0 <\/span>The building itself built before 1714, most likely in 1704, was listed as a National Historic Landmark on May 27, 2003.\u00a0 <\/span>Before it became a restaurant, Hopestill Capen\u2019s dress goods business occupied the property.\u00a0 <\/span>In 1771, printer Isaiah Thomas published his newspaper, The Massachusetts Spy, from the second floor.\u00a0 <\/span>With such a long and illustrious history, the Union Oyster House has had its share of famous people in history as diners including the Kennedy\u2019s and Daniel Webster.\u00a0 <\/span>Most surprising, in 1796, Louis-Philippe, King of France from 1830 to 1848, lived in exile on the second floor.\u00a0 <\/span>He earned his living by teaching French to young ladies.\u00a0 <\/span>America\u2019s first waitress, Rose Carey, worked there starting in the early 1920\u2019s.\u00a0 <\/span>Her picture is on the wall on the stairway up to the second floor.\u00a0 <\/span>The Union Oyster House serves traditional New England fare like seafood, poultry, baked beans, steak, and chops.\u00a0 <\/span>The toothpick gained popularity in America beginning at the Oyster House.<\/span><\/p>\n

A short distance from the Holocaust Memorial and Oyster House, the next stop on the tour brought the Cartwrights and other passengers on the Duck Tour to Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLocated near the waterfront and today\u2019s Government Center for Boston, Faneuil Hall has been a marketplace and meeting hall since 1742.\u00a0 <\/span>It was the site of several speeches by Samuel Adam, James Otis, and others encouraging independence from Great Britain.\u00a0 <\/span>Now part of Boston\u2019s National Historical Park, it is a popular stop on the Freedom Trail.\u00a0 <\/span>Because this is where the citizens of Boston debated the issues that led to the American Revolution, Faneuil Hall has also been nicknamed the Cradle of Liberty.\u00a0 <\/span>A few of Massachusetts political leaders have made Faneuil Hall the backdrop to declare and concede their candidacy for President of the United States.\u00a0 <\/span>On November 7, 1979, Edward Kennedy used Faneuil Hall to give a speech declaring his candidacy for President.\u00a0 <\/span>On the flip side, on November 3, 2004, Senator John Kerry also used Faneuil Hall to give his concession speech to President George W. Bush in the 2004 presidential election.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

After the brief stop at Faneuil Hall, the attention was turned to the famed Quincy Market.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIn the 1800s, Quincy Marketplace was added, providing more space for residents of the burgeoning city to shop.\u00a0 <\/span>Designed by Alexander Parris, the market built on a landfill spot that was once a part of the harbor.\u00a0 <\/span>Six new streets were added to accommodate the market traffic.\u00a0 <\/span>In the beginning, Quincy Market sold mostly produce, eggs, cheese, and bread.\u00a0 <\/span>Meat vendors came shortly after and butchering work was often done on site.\u00a0 <\/span>Quincy Market is two stories tall and covers about 27,000 square feet.\u00a0 <\/span>Fashioned from New England granite, the building is 535 feet long and boasts red brick interior walls.\u00a0 <\/span>The marketplace represents the first large-scale use of granite and glass in post-and-beam construction.\u00a0 <\/span>The east and west facades feature Doric columns and are Roman in style.\u00a0 <\/span>There\u2019s a long hallway down the center of the rectangular building, and a large copper-covered dome in the center of the roof covers an open seating area as well as the main side entrances.\u00a0 <\/span>Quincy Market remains one of Boston\u2019s most visited tourist attractions and is popular with those who work in the area as a great place for a quick but tasty lunch.\u00a0 <\/span>In the marketplace, plenty of fast food and seventeen, including a few upscale, restaurants can be found.\u00a0 <\/span>Shoppers can enjoy more than 100 stores and carts.\u00a0 <\/span>Many peddle souvenirs and other trinkets while others offer items by talented local artisans.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019ll also find apparel shops boasting recognizable names.\u00a0 <\/span>Entertainment at the restaurants and in the outdoor areas is common and can be enjoyed nearly all day long, especially on the weekends in the summer months.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Leaving Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market, the next stop on the tour brought them to the Old State House.\u00a0 <\/span>The Old State House is where the royal governors of the Colony of Massachusetts had their offices.\u00a0 <\/span>Today there is an impressive museum in the building.\u00a0 <\/span>As they drove by, the tour guide gave a brief history of the Old State House.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe Old State House, the oldest surviving public building in Boston, was built in 1713 to house the government offices of the Massachusetts Bay Colony.\u00a0 <\/span>It stands on the site of Boston’s first Town House of 1657-1658, which burned in 1711.\u00a0 <\/span>The Old State House was a natural meeting place for the exchange of economic and local news.\u00a0 <\/span>A Merchant’s Exchange occupied the first floor.\u00a0 <\/span>John Hancock and others rented the basement for warehouse space.\u00a0 <\/span>As the center of political life and thought in the colonies, the Old State House has been called one of the most important public buildings in Colonial America.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The next stop on the tour was King\u2019s Chapel Burying Ground.\u00a0 <\/span>Again, the tour guide gave a brief talk on this historic landmark in Boston\u2019s vast colonial history.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cKing\u2019s Chapel Burying Ground is the oldest burying ground in the city.\u00a0 <\/span>The bell in the King\u2019s Chapel is the largest bell cast by Paul Revere.\u00a0 <\/span>King’s Chapel, designed by Peter Harrison, was constructed on land taken from the burying ground.\u00a0 <\/span>To ensure the presence of the Church of England in America, King James II ordered an Anglican parish built in Boston.\u00a0 <\/span>Since none of the colonists were interested in selling suitable land for the Church, the King ordered Governor Andros to seize a corner of the burying ground for the Church of England.\u00a0 <\/span>The burying ground is the final resting place for notable colonists which include John Winthrop, the Colony’s 12 term governor; Hezekiah Usher, the colony’s first printer; and Mary Chilton, the first woman to step off the Mayflower.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As the tour drove by the oldest continuously operated hotel in the United States, the tour guide gave a few interesting notables about the Parker House Hotel.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe hotel first opened its doors in 1855. It also was the first to create the Boston cream pie.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The tour then drove up to one of the most famous parks in the world, The Boston Common.\u00a0 <\/span>As the amphibious vehicle drove around the beautiful park, the tour guide gave some interesting facts about this historic gathering place.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBoston Common, also known as The Common is the central public park in Boston.\u00a0 <\/span>It is sometimes erroneously referred to as Boston Commons.\u00a0 <\/span>Dating from 1634, it is one of the oldest city parks in the United States.\u00a0 <\/span>The Boston Common consists of fifty acres of land bound by Tremont Street, Park Street, Beacon Street, Charles Street, and Boylston Street.\u00a0 <\/span>The Common is part of the Emerald Necklace of parks and parkways which extend from the Common south to Franklin Park in Roxbury.\u00a0 <\/span>It was declared a U.S. National Historic Landmark in 1987.\u00a0 <\/span>The Common serves as a public park for all to use for formal or informal gatherings.\u00a0 <\/span>Events such as concerts, protests, softball games, and ice skating on Frog Pond often take place in the park.\u00a0 <\/span>Famous individuals such as Martin Luther King, Jr. and Pope John Paul II have made speeches here.\u00a0 <\/span>Judy Garland gave her largest concert ever on the Common, on August 31, 1967, where more than 100,000 people came to witness her performance.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The next stop brought the tour to Boston\u2019s Bull & Finch Pub, which inspired the television show, Cheers.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the tour began to wind down, their next stop on the tour was Newbury Street.\u00a0 <\/span>The guide made a joke to the men on the tour telling them to hold on to their wallets as the women in their lives might enjoy perusing through some of Boston\u2019s finest jewelry, clothing and art stores along Newbury Street.\u00a0 <\/span>He also noted on average; there were seven beauty salons on every block!<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think we need to take a side trip to some of those wonderful shops along Newbury Street, don\u2019t you think, Honey?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica winked at Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, right, Babe, in your wildest dreams,\u201d Adam chuckled. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy, this tour has been fun, and the history lesson, fantastic!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily said as she laid her head on her father\u2019s shoulder as they passed some famous designer boutiques lining the very exclusive Newbury Street.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the tour came to its conclusion, it passed by one of Back Bay\u2019s most famous addresses; The Copley Plaza Hotel.\u00a0 <\/span>As they drove by, the tour guide shared notable facts about this historic landmark at Back Bay.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe entrance hallway has been called Peacock Alley since the 1920s. The 5,000-square-foot lobby has a 21-foot high gilded coffered ceiling with matching Empire style crystal chandeliers and Italian marble columns.\u00a0 <\/span>Much of the classical architecture and decor have been preserved, including the back-to-back P monogram.\u00a0 <\/span>The hotel is also known for a few industry firsts: the first hotel to be completely air conditioned in Boston, the first hotel with an international reservations system, and the first to accept credit cards.\u00a0 <\/span>The Copley Plaza Hotel has been host to many famous people including every U.S President since William Howard Taft.\u00a0 <\/span>Many celebrities have called the Copley Plaza their home while visiting Boston.\u00a0 <\/span>They include Tony Bennett, Lena Horne, Dorothy Lewis, Frank Sinatra, and Luciano Pavarotti. Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton chose the Copley Plaza for their second honeymoon.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The tour\u2019s last stop was another famous landmark at Copley Square, the Boston Public Library.\u00a0 <\/span>Built in 1895, the library and its six million books, has numerous works of art, including a John Singer Sargent mural.<\/span><\/p>\n

The tour ended back at the Prudential Center where the Cartwrights thanked and tipped the driver\/tour guide. <\/span><\/p>\n

After the 80 minute tour, the family went up to the Prudential Tower to see Boston from the observation deck.\u00a0 <\/span>Located on the fiftieth floor of the Prudential Tower, the Skywalk Observatory has sweeping 360-degree views of the city of Boston.<\/span><\/p>\n

The Cartwrights made their way up the elevator; Adam paid for everyone\u2019s admission and the audio tour of the Dreams of Freedom Museum; Boston\u2019s only educational immigration experience.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis is a favorite place for Brie and me to come when we visit Boston, Emily,\u201d Jason told his sister as they started their tour.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cThe exhibit celebrates the important role immigration played in shaping Boston.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s one of the world\u2019s most culturally diverse cities with one out of every three residents being born abroad, with a population speaking over one hundred and forty different languages.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

After spending a few hours touring the Dreams of Museum at the Prudential Center observation deck, Jason and Brianna announced they were ready to treat the family to dinner at one of Boston\u2019s favorite tourist destinations: Legal Seafood.<\/span><\/p>\n

The family walked across the Prudential Center indoor Skywalk to Copley Place and headed toward the restaurant passing by an arcade of upscale retail shops. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled as he saw Jessica and Emily commenting to each other about many of the window displays put up by the retailers trying to entice the shoppers and visitors of Copley Place into their stores.<\/span><\/p>\n

Upon arrival to the restaurant, the family waited for a few minutes while the staff made their table for their reservation.\u00a0 <\/span>Once seated, the waitress came around to take drink orders while everyone looked over their menus.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood evening!\u00a0 <\/span>Welcome to Legal Seafood.\u00a0 <\/span>Is this your first time dining with us today?\u201d the spirited waitress asked with a large smile.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt is for my two daughters,\u201d Adam answered.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cMy wife and I used to live here years ago when we students at Harvard and we ate here many times during our college years.\u00a0 <\/span>My son and his girlfriend currently live here as they attend M.I.T. and Wellesley, so they come here quite often, he tells me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

“Awesome!\u00a0 <\/span>We’re glad to have our returning guests as well as welcome you two for the first time!\u201d the waitress said as she smiled at Emily and Jillian. <\/span><\/p>\n

After returning with the drink orders, the waitress took each of the Cartwright\u2019s and Brianna\u2019s orders.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason ordered a Treasures of the Reef<\/em> appetizer which consisted of an assortment of freshly shucked and chilled raw shellfish.\u00a0 <\/span>When the waitress returned with the platter of food, Jillian\u2019s face turned sour.\u00a0 <\/span>Never having raw seafood before, she was unsure about Jason\u2019s choice for an appetizer.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s wrong, Baby Girl?\u00a0 <\/span>Do you not want to try this?\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s tasty.\u00a0 <\/span>Daddy and I used to make ourselves sick on oysters and clams when we lived here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThey’re\u00a0 <\/span>so slimy, Mommy!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian\u2019s nose crinkled as she watched Adam, Jason, Brianna, and Emily suck down the seafood delectable. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWould you rather have a bowl of clam chowder?\u00a0 <\/span>I know you’d like it, and this place makes the best!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian nodded her head, and when Jessica got the waitress\u2019s attention, she called her back over and ordered a cup of clam chowder for Jillian.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSorry, Peanut!\u00a0 <\/span>I thought you would enjoy this.\u00a0 <\/span>The seafood is fresh and soo good!\u00a0 <\/span>You sure you don\u2019t want to try it?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou can have my share, Jason,\u201d Jillian grinned.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cMommy got me some chowder.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Everyone ordered lobster as their main entree except for Jessica and Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica ordered the Yellow Curry Mahi Mahi and Adam ordered the Red Onion Jam Sword Fish.\u00a0 <\/span>When the waitress came and put lobster bibs on each of her children and Brianna, she had them all gather around so she could take a picture of them with their bibs on.<\/span><\/p>\n

When dinner arrived, Jessica helped Jillian crack open her lobster so she could eat the meat. Everyone marveled at how fresh and delicious the food was.<\/span><\/p>\n

At the end of the meal, the waitress assumed Adam would be picking up dinner and dropped off the check to him.\u00a0 <\/span>He started to pull his wallet out to pay when Jason stopped him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad, I told you this would be on Brianna and me.\u00a0 <\/span>Please pass me the check.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, I don\u2019t want you to have to pay for dinner.\u00a0 <\/span>You and Brianna bought us lunch, after all.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad, please.\u00a0 <\/span>We want to do this.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s our way of welcoming all of you to Boston,\u201d Jason smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason and I want to pick up the tab for dinner tonight, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>You paid for for the tours today,\u201d Brianna added.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam didn\u2019t hesitate.\u00a0 <\/span>He could see the honor in Jason\u2019s and Brianna\u2019s eyes as hosts for the family to their first full day in Boston by buying lunch and dinner.<\/span><\/p>\n

After dinner was over, the family decided to take the subway back to Cambridge and enjoy the rest of the evening going over maps for the next day\u2019s activities.\u00a0 <\/span>During the ride back, Jillian laid her head on her mother\u2019s chest and she complained of not feeling well.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, I don\u2019t feel good.\u00a0 <\/span>My throat hurts.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica felt Jillian\u2019s forehead and she was feeling quite warm.\u00a0 <\/span>She turned to Adam with a concerned look on her face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJillian\u2019s running a fever, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Do you think we should find a minor emergency clinic?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam leaned over and looked at Jillian. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s the matter, Sweetpea?\u00a0 <\/span>You aren\u2019t feeling good?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian nodded her head still laying on Jessica\u2019s chest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI have a thermometer back at the apartment, Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>You can take her temperature and if it is high, there are minor emergency clinics around Harvard,\u201d Brianna said.<\/span><\/p>\n

After the family had returned home, Jason told Jessica to take Jillian into his room so she could lie down on his bed and comfortably rest until everyone was ready to go to sleep.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna went into the bathroom and got the thermometer out for Jessica. Jessica took Jillian\u2019s temperature and it registered 100.2. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam came in to check and see how Jillian was feeling and to let Jessica know Jason had left to get some Children\u2019s Tylenol.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you think we need to take her to the emergency clinic, Adam?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said looking down at Jillian resting on Jason\u2019s bed, moving the hair from her face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t we wait to see if the Tylenol will help first.\u00a0 <\/span>She might be trying to come down with a summer cold.\u00a0 <\/span>If the Tylenol doesn\u2019t help, we can take her later.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason arrived back with the Tylenol and Jessica woke Jillian up to take a dose of the medicine.\u00a0 <\/span>She laid back down and went right back to sleep.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica, Jason, and Adam went back to the living area where they found Emily helping Brianna get wine for the adults and soda for Emily along with some assorted sweets to munch on while they discussed Jillian\u2019s health and plans for the next day.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf Jillian is still not feeling better tomorrow, I can stay home with her while the four of you go and enjoy the day,\u201d Brianna suggested.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Babe, that\u2019s very sweet of you to offer,\u201d Jason said as he kissed Brianna\u2019s cheek. \u201cHopefully, she\u2019ll be feeling good tomorrow and we can all go as a family.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

After looking over the map of the Freedom Trail, everyone noted where they would like to visit more up close and personal after the narration from the Duck Tour. <\/span><\/p>\n

Everyone was exhausted by 9:00 PM and decided to make it an early night.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica and Adam made a bed of blankets and the comforter from their bed on the floor for Jillian so she could sleep in their room for the night.\u00a0 <\/span>When it was all ready, Adam went and picked up Jillian out of Jason\u2019s room and brought her into their room; she never woke up.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica had already changed into her nightgown and was in bed.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam stripped down to his boxers and climbed into bed with his wife.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica snuggled up into Adam\u2019s arms and began to play with the salt and pepper curls on Adam\u2019s chest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m worried about Jillian, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>I hate she might miss out on the Freedom Trail tomorrow.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

With his eyes closed, he pulled Jessica a bit tighter to him.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cIf she\u2019s still not feeling better, it would be best for her to stay back.\u00a0 <\/span>If she\u2019s still running a fever tomorrow night, we\u2019ll take her to the emergency clinic.\u00a0 <\/span>Try to get some sleep, Babe.\u00a0 <\/span>I know you\u2019re worried, but we\u2019ll reassess tomorrow.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica closed her eyes and the apartment fell dark and quiet. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian slept through the night.\u00a0 <\/span>Her fever was gone the next morning, but she still had a scratchy throat.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica felt she should stay back and rest, but Jillian wanted to go with the rest of the family to visit some of the sights they had seen during the duck tour the day before.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica, being the over protective mother, wanted to say no, but Adam insisted if Jillian wanted to go and she felt like she would be up to it, he wanted her to come.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica gave in with reservation, but Brianna assured Jessica if Jillian started to feel sick, she would be happy to bring her home and put her to bed to rest.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica packed the bottle of Tylenol just in case she began to run a fever or started to feel sick.<\/span><\/p>\n

The family returned to the Boston Gardens where Jessica took pictures of everyone with the ducklings.\u00a0 <\/span>They saw Romeo and Juliet swimming gracefully in the lake.\u00a0 <\/span>They walked the Freedom Trail and visited many of the historical sites which made Boston a history lover\u2019s dream.\u00a0 <\/span>The family stopped off at Quincy Market for lunch before continuing their tour.\u00a0 <\/span>After a long hot day, everyone returned to Jason\u2019s apartment, took baths and showers to wash off the sweat from the day.<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna ordered pizza delivery, and they all sat around the TV and watched the video Adam had taken of everyone at the different sites. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica helped Brianna clean up the kitchen while Adam and Jason mapped out their trip to Cape Cod for the next morning. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI want to take you to see your grandmother\u2019s and great-grandfather\u2019s graves tomorrow on our way out of town,\u201d Adam told his eldest child.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSounds good, Dad.\u00a0 <\/span>What time do you think we need to leave?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI would like to get an early start.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s a few hours to the Cape.\u00a0 <\/span>The traffic will be heavy since it\u2019s a weekday.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

When Brianna and Jessica finished with the dishes, Jessica came over to the table where Jason and Adam were discussing the travel plans to the Cape.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam pulled Jessica into his lap and wrapped his arm around her waist.\u00a0 <\/span>She leaned her head against his and he explained the plans for the next day. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe haven\u2019t been to your mother\u2019s grave since we got engaged, Adam,\u201d Jessica said somberly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know.\u00a0 <\/span>Now we are bringing our three children and the girlfriend of our oldest child.\u00a0 <\/span>She would be so proud of all of them,\u201d Adam said with a bit of sadness in his voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe would be most proud of her son,\u201d Jessica said kissing Adam on the side of his face, and running her fingers through his thinning hair.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe would marvel at my father’s \u00a0amazing wife and mother her son chose as well,\u201d Jason added with a smile.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Honey,\u201d Jessica said rubbing her son\u2019s face with her fingers.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam patted Jessica\u2019s hip and said, \u201cIf we\u2019re going to get an early start, we all need to get to bed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhere\u2019s Jillian?\u201d Jessica asked looking around not seeing her youngest child.<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna, who was making up the air mattress for Emily and Jillian, shrugged her shoulders.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily was reading a magazine on the sofa and also said she didn\u2019t know where Jillian was.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica leaped from Adam\u2019s lap and ran down the hall to the bathroom, but did not find her in there.\u00a0 <\/span>She went into the bedroom she was sharing with Adam and found Jillian sleeping under the covers soundly.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica breathed relief as Adam came running up behind her. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI guess she was tired and wanted to have a quiet, dark place to sleep,\u201d Jessica whispered as she went over to feel her daughter\u2019s forehead for fever.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cShe\u2019s a bit warm, but I think she\u2019ll be okay in the morning.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll carry her into the other room,\u201d Adam said as he started to take down the covers and pick her up.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Adam, don\u2019t.\u00a0 <\/span>Let her sleep in here with us again tonight,\u201d Jessica pleaded.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam sighed deeply, \u201cOkay, Jess.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam went to tell Emily Jillian would be sleeping with him and Jessica, and to tell Brianna and Jason goodnight.\u00a0 <\/span>He returned to the room and shut the door.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica started to undress and finish packing the clothes they would be bringing to Cape Cod and Nantucket.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam stripped to his boxers and climbed into bed.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica changed into her silk short set and climbed into bed with Jillian sleeping soundly between them.\u00a0 <\/span>She looked over at Adam and grabbed his hand.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Babe,\u201d she quietly whispered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFor what?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam said intertwining his fingers with Jessica\u2019s.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFor allowing Jillian to stay in bed with us tonight.\u00a0 <\/span>I know you prefer the children sleep in their own beds.\u00a0 <\/span>I think it\u2019s better she stay with us because she\u2019s not feeling well.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled and then brought Jessica\u2019s hand to his lips and kissed her fingers tenderly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m okay with Jillian sleeping with us tonight, Babe.\u00a0 <\/span>Tomorrow night, however, she sleeps in her own room with her sister because you, Mrs. Cartwright, will be all mine.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I do like the sound of that, Mr. Cartwright,\u201d Jessica purred.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood night, Jess,\u201d Adam smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood night, Adam,\u201d Jessica blew a kiss to her lover.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam leaned over and turned out the light.\u00a0 <\/span>Soon, the house fell quiet as Jason made sure Emily was comfortable before joining Brianna in his room. <\/span><\/p>\n

Everyone went to bed, resting for a new day and the next stop on their vacation itinerary; Cape Cod.<\/span><\/p>\n

Tour information about Boston \u00a0courtesy\u00a0of\u00a0www.bostonducktours.com, The Freedom Trail, as well as my own many experiences on my many visits to Boston and Cambridge, including the Duck Tours. \u00a0M.I.T. information courtesy of my dear friend, Luisandra Reynoso and the M.I.T. website.\u00a0<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

Chapter Eleven<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

After a good night\u2019s sleep, the Cartwrights and Brianna woke up and got ready for the journey to Cape Cod.\u00a0 <\/span>The girls took showers while Adam and Jason loaded up the SUV with everyone\u2019s luggage.\u00a0 <\/span>Once the girls were finished with their showers, Brianna and Jessica fixed breakfast sandwiches to take with them on the road to enjoy in the car on their way to the cemetery to visit Adam\u2019s mother\u2019s and grandfather\u2019s graves. <\/span><\/p>\n

It was shortly after 7:00 A.M. when everyone was in the car and ready to leave Jason\u2019s apartment and start their journey south to the Cape.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna was excited for later in the day when her future in-laws would be meeting her parents for the first time.\u00a0 <\/span>She knew her parents would love Adam and Jessica and hoped the same in return.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason always told Brianna he thought the two couples would get along famously, but Brianna couldn\u2019t help but be a little nervous. <\/span><\/p>\n

After maneuvering through stop and go traffic, the family finally arrived at the Mt. Auburn Cemetery in Cambridge, where Elizabeth and her father were buried.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam parked the SUV near the internment site of his mother and grandfather, and the family made their way down near Willow Pond, to the location of their eternal rest.\u00a0 <\/span>Upon arriving at the burial site, Jessica placed both her arms around Adam\u2019s waist.\u00a0 <\/span>She laid her head on his chest as they looked at the headstone which read, Elizabeth Stoddard Cartwright, beloved wife of Benjamin and dear mother to Adam along with her birth year and death year.\u00a0 <\/span>Next to Elizabeth, was her father\u2019s grave that only said, STODDARD<\/em>.\u00a0 <\/span>Before they left Nevada, Adam had contacted the cemetery to have floral arrangements made and placed at both burial sites.\u00a0 <\/span>A spray of three dozen red roses with a satin Mother<\/em> sash draped over the roses, and another spray of white roses with Grandmother<\/em> on the sash adorned Elizabeth\u2019s grave.\u00a0 <\/span>Other beautiful summer flowers were planted around her grave as well.\u00a0 <\/span>Ben had set up an endowment to the cemetery so fresh seasonal flowers were planted at his wife\u2019s and father-in-law\u2019s graves every season of the year.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam also had a lovely spray of summer flowers made for his grandfather\u2019s grave with a Grandfather sash.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe flowers are beautiful, Adam, the cemetery did a lovely job,\u201d Jessica whispered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam placed his arms around Jessica\u2019s shoulder and sighed deeply, \u201cYes, they did.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily walked over to her father and mother and placed her arm through Adam\u2019s other arm. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI wished I could have known my other grandmother and great-grandfather, Daddy.\u00a0 <\/span>I know they must have been great people.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI never knew my mother, Princess, as you know.\u00a0 <\/span>She died when I was only a few weeks old.\u00a0 <\/span>Poppy has told me some wonderful stories about her.\u00a0 <\/span>She was an amazing woman from what he and Grandfather have told me.\u00a0 <\/span>Your great-grandfather was a mighty man as well.\u00a0 <\/span>He had died a year before I came to Harvard to go to school.\u00a0 <\/span>When I was a boy, Poppy would allow me to come and spend a few weeks with him in the summer.\u00a0 <\/span>He was a great man.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

After about twenty minutes, Adam announced it was time to get going again.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica hugged Adam and asked him if he would like a few moments alone; he smiled, kissed her on the forehead and nodded yes.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica gathered up the rest of the family, and they all headed to the SUV and waited for Adam to have a few minutes alone with his mother and grandfather.<\/span><\/p>\n

Tears streamed down Adam\u2019s cheeks as he stood alone. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou would be so proud of me, Mom.\u00a0 <\/span>I have a loving wife, three beautiful children, and a soon to be daughter-in-law, who is perfect for our son, Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>Dad has never stopped loving you.\u00a0 <\/span>I always see the love in his eyes when he talks about you.\u00a0 <\/span>I feel as if I know you through his love. Thank you for being with me right after the car wreck, and telling me to fight to stay alive.\u00a0 <\/span>I can\u2019t imagine not being around today to see my children growing up, being there for them, loving them, teaching them to be the amazing adults they\u2019re becoming.\u00a0 <\/span>I feel your love each and every day of my life.\u00a0 <\/span>I miss you, Mom.\u00a0 <\/span>I will always love you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam wiped his tear glistened eyes.\u00a0 <\/span>He stood back and took a picture of his mother\u2019s and grandfather\u2019s graves, and returned to the SUV.\u00a0 <\/span>When he got in, he placed the key in the ignition and sat for a minute looking in the rear-view mirror at his children.\u00a0 <\/span>He then looked at Jessica and smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>She grabbed his hand and held it tight.\u00a0 <\/span>She smiled and mouthed, \u2018I love you, Adam.\u2019 Adam smiled back, squeezed her hand, pulling it to his mouth to give her fingers a kiss and said, \u201cI love you, too, Babe.\u00a0 <\/span>I love you, too.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>He then let Jessica\u2019s hand go, started the car, and they headed toward the exit of the cemetery and on to Cape Cod.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

After several hours on the road, the Cartwrights and Brianna arrived at Wequassett Resort and Golf Club.\u00a0 <\/span>As they arrived into Hyannis, Brianna called her parents, who came in the day before, and were waiting in the lobby of the hotel for everyone to arrive.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam pulled up to the entrance where they were greeted by the valet and bellman.\u00a0 <\/span>The family walked into the lobby, and Brianna\u2019s parents and uncle came up to welcome them to Hyannis. <\/span><\/p>\n

After Brianna\u2019s parents had hugged her and Jason, Brianna introduced her parents to the rest of Jason\u2019s family.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMom, Dad, Uncle Jack, these are Jason\u2019s parents, Adam, and Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica, Adam, this is my mother, Theresa, my father, Anthony, but he goes by Tony, and my mother\u2019s brother, my Uncle Jackson, but he goes by Jack.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna\u2019s parents and her uncle shook hands and introduced themselves to each other and exchanged pleasantries.\u00a0 <\/span>After they finished, Brianna then introduced Jason\u2019s sisters. \u00a0Brianna’s brother, Liam, was unable to join them as he was a senior drum major in his band, and the week was when the school’s summer band camp was scheduled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThese two beautiful girls are Jason\u2019s sisters, Emily, and Jillian.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy goodness!\u00a0 <\/span>You, two girls, are beautiful, just like your mother!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Theresa said as she shook each of the girls hands.\u00a0 <\/span>They both smiled and blushed as they thanked Brianna\u2019s mother for her compliment. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe’re proud of all our children, and we\u2019re extremely happy with Jason\u2019s choice in Brianna.\u00a0 <\/span>We love her very much,\u201d Adam noted.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jackson spoke up and directed everyone to the front desk where the staff had the keys to each of the family\u2019s suites waiting.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam filled out a guest card for himself, Jessica, and the girls.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason filled out a guest card for himself and Brianna. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jackson gave the suite assignments to the Bell Captain, and he arranged for the luggage to be delivered to the appropriate suites. <\/span><\/p>\n

Once everyone was checked in, Jackson gave them directions to their suites.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI\u2019ve taken the liberty to book you all in our great signature Waterview Suites.\u00a0 <\/span>If there is anything you should need, please feel free to contact my office.\u00a0 <\/span>My secretary, Jenna, will be happy to assist you with whatever you need to make your stay more enjoyable.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam thanked Jackson for his hospitality and everyone headed toward their suites.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam and Jessica\u2019s suite was just above Emily and Jillian\u2019s, while Jason and Brianna\u2019s suite was in the next building over. <\/span><\/p>\n

Once inside their suite, Adam and Jessica walked over to the floor to ceiling glass wall which overlooked the ocean.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam took Jessica into his arms and kissed her forehead. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, the view is insane!\u00a0 <\/span>I love this place!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I love you, Mrs. Cartwright,\u201d Adam said as he placed his fingers under Jessica\u2019s chin, raising her face up to meet his.\u00a0 <\/span>He bent down and kissed Jessica\u2019s lips tenderly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam pulled Jessica\u2019s cotton sleeveless blouse from her peddle pusher pants and started to unbutton her shirt.\u00a0 <\/span>He had gotten to the third button when they heard a knock at the door.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam sighed deeply at the interruption.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think you\u2019re going to need to answer the door, Jess,\u201d Adam smiled as he pressed himself against Jessica so she could feel the erection in his jeans.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica grinned, buttoned her shirt, and headed toward the door.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam went out onto the balcony and looked out onto the beautiful grounds and beach. <\/span><\/p>\n

When Jessica opened the door, it was the bellman with their luggage.\u00a0 <\/span>She told the bellman which suitcase was her\u2019s and Adam\u2019s, and which was Emily\u2019s and Jillian\u2019s.\u00a0 <\/span>He placed theirs in the bedroom, and Jessica gave him a tip for both her\u2019s, Adam\u2019s, Emily\u2019s, and Jillian\u2019s luggage. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Ma\u2019am.\u00a0 <\/span>I also have this from Mr. Davis.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The bellman handed a sealed envelope to Jessica, she thanked him, and he left the room to head back downstairs to Emily\u2019s and Jillian\u2019s room to drop off their luggage.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica came out onto the balcony where Adam was standing and showed him the sealed envelope from Jackson.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam took the envelope, opened it, and read the letter to Jessica.<\/span><\/p>\n

I hope you have found your accommodations suitable for your stay.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Once you have had a chance to relax from your travels, please join Tony, Theresa, and me for a delicious lunch at the Pleasant Bay Terrace located adjacent to the pool at 1:30 P.M.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Best Regards,<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Jack<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Adam looked at his watch and noted the time was just a bit after twelve noon.\u00a0 <\/span>He smiled at Jessica and took her back into his arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNow, where was it we left off?\u201d he asked as he again started to unbutton Jessica\u2019s blouse.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShouldn\u2019t we go inside, Adam?\u00a0 <\/span>After all, the girls are right downstairs, and if they come out on their patio, they might be able to see us through the wooden slats in the floor.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled, whisked Jessica into his arms, walked back into the suite, and headed toward the bedroom.\u00a0 <\/span>He sat her down on her feet, and she slipped out of her sandals and started to unbutton her pedal pushers, slipping them off.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam took off his shirt and slipped out of his jeans and boxers.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica stood in her lace bra and matching panties.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam pulled her to his naked body and unfastened her bra, and Jessica allowed it to fall from her arms.\u00a0 <\/span>He then slipped his hands into her panties and slipped them down to her legs where they fell to the carpet, and she stepped out of them.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam laid her on the bed and laid down next to his wife.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI finally have you to myself again,\u201d He said as he started to explore every inch of Jessica\u2019s body with his tongue.<\/span><\/p>\n

After an hour of pleasure, the two lovers got up, took a quick shower together before dressing again and heading downstairs to meet the girls so they could walk over to the Pleasant Bay Terrace for lunch with Jason and Brianna, her parents, and Uncle.<\/span><\/p>\n

The waitress welcomed everyone to lunch and explained what the Chef had prepared for their enjoyment. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFor starters, the chef has made a vine ripened tomato and fresh mozzarella salad with herb oil and balsamic syrup.\u00a0 <\/span>For your entree selections, he has prepared a grilled chicken and brie panini with basil pesto mayonnaise, bacon, and roasted red pepper sandwiches with seasoned french fries.\u00a0 <\/span>If a sandwich is not to your liking, Chef has also prepared a fantastic Margherita pizza with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.\u00a0 <\/span>If either of those two selections doesn’t tempt you, Chef also has made an excellent crab cake sandwich with mustard remoulade and onion conserve as well.\u00a0 <\/span>For desert, we have a selection of fresh seasonal fruits or fresh lemon sorbet.”<\/span><\/p>\n

The family enjoyed lunch with Brianna\u2019s parents, and uncle and everyone enjoyed getting to each other better.\u00a0 <\/span>Anthony invited Adam and Jason to join him in a few rounds of golf the next morning while Theresa surprised Jessica and the girls with a day of pampering at the resort\u2019s full-service spa.<\/span><\/p>\n

At the end of lunch, Anthony and Theresa invited Adam and Jessica to dinner at the resort\u2019s signature restaurant, Twenty-Eight Atlantic.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna and Jason told Emily and Jillian they were going to treat them to dinner at the beach where the hotel hosts its twice weekly clambake.<\/span><\/p>\n

As everyone went their separate ways, Emily and Jillian asked their parents if they could head to the pool for an afternoon of swimming.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam and Jessica agreed they would enjoy a day at the pool and told the girls to go put their suits on and meet them up in their suite so they could apply sunscreen to them before they all went swimming.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once in their suite, Jessica opened her\u2019s and Adam\u2019s suitcases and began to hang up the clothes they planned to wear while at Cape Cod.\u00a0 <\/span>After fifteen minutes, the girls rang the bell to their parent’s suite with their suits and cover-ups on ready to head to the pool.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam answered the door with just his jeans on.\u00a0 <\/span>When the girls saw he was not ready yet, their faces dropped from smiles to frowns.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy! Why aren\u2019t you ready yet?\u201d groaned Emily.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be ready in a minute.\u00a0 <\/span>It won\u2019t take me anytime to change.\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy\u2019s almost finished hanging up our clothes, and she\u2019ll put her suit on as well,\u201d Adam said in defense of himself.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean Mommy isn\u2019t ready either?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian protested.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI won\u2019t be but about five more minutes!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica yelled from the bedroom.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTake off your bathing suit cover-ups, I\u2019ll get the sunscreen on you, girls,\u201d Adam said as he headed to the bedroom to get the sunscreen. <\/span><\/p>\n

When he returned, the girls were sitting on the sofa in their bikini\u2019s.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam took one look at his kids and yelled for Jessica to come into the living area.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica came walking into the living area tying the top to her bikini when she smiled at her girls sitting in their new suits. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUm, what\u2019s this?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked as he pointed to his daughters swim attire.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica looked at Adam with narrowed eyes, \u201cThey\u2019re bikinis, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>That\u2019s what the girls chose, and I allowed it, what\u2019s wrong with them?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you really think the girls should be wearing such skimpy suits, Jess?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy, what\u2019s wrong with them? it\u2019s not like it\u2019s a thong or string bikini,\u201d Emily interjected.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam whipped his head toward his oldest daughter and said, \u201cI wasn\u2019t speaking to you, Emily Elizabeth.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Adam, stop it.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s right.\u00a0 <\/span>They\u2019re young girls, and they want to wear two-piece bathing suits.\u00a0 <\/span>You don\u2019t seem to mind that mine is a two piece.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re a married woman, too, Jess.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd? what are you trying to say, Adam?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI just don\u2019t want boys to be groping my daughters with their eyes, that\u2019s all.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I think we\u2019ve raised our girls to be ladies.\u00a0 <\/span>Now, let\u2019s put sunscreen on them so they won\u2019t ruin the rest of their trip with a severe sunburn.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam took the sunscreen and put some lotion in his hand and rubbed the lotion on Emily\u2019s upper and lower back as well as the back of her legs.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica did the same to Jillian.\u00a0 <\/span>After they had finished their backsides, Jessica squirted lotion into each of their hands, and they covered their chest, stomach and the front of their legs and faces with sunscreen while Adam rubbed sunscreen on Jessica\u2019s upper and lower back as well as the back of her legs. He then turned her around and rubbed sunscreen on her chest and stomach.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica then rubbed sunscreen on Adam\u2019s chest and back, and he went into the bedroom to change into his swim trunks and flip flops while Jessica was putting sunscreen on her legs. <\/span><\/p>\n

When Adam walked into the bedroom to change, Emily asked Jessica, \u201cWhy does Daddy act like such a protective old fart sometimes?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI heard that, Princess!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam laughed from the bedroom.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica, Emily, and Jillian broke out in laughter.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBusted!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica pulled her two girls into her arms and said, \u201cDaddy loves you two more than life itself.\u00a0 <\/span>He just wants to protect you always.\u00a0 <\/span>That\u2019s what Daddy does,\u201d and she kissed both her girls\u2019 heads. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNow,\u201d she said as she patted both of her girls on their bums, \u201cget your cover-ups on and let\u2019s go to the pool.\u00a0 <\/span>Where are your hats?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019re in our bag, Mommy,\u201d Emily said as she put on her cover-up.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam came out with his swim trunks, t-shirt, and a baseball cap on.\u00a0 <\/span>He brought the beach bag with their towels and sunscreen along with Jessica\u2019s hat and sunglasses with him.\u00a0 <\/span>They headed to the pool for an afternoon of sunbathing and swimming.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once at the swimming pool, everyone took off their cover-ups and laid their towels out on the chaise lounge chairs.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica laid down on while Adam and the girls got in the pool.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian was not a strong swimmer, so she, with Adam, stayed down in the shallow end, while Emily swam to the deep end and even did flips off the diving board.\u00a0 <\/span>Two young men were at the pool and were keeping an eye on Emily and talking among themselves about how beautiful they thought she was.\u00a0 <\/span>When Emily got out of the pool and was sitting on the side near the deep end, the boys came up and introduced themselves.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, beautiful lady.\u00a0 <\/span>My name is Jeremy, and this is my brother, Kerry.\u00a0 <\/span>We saw you in the lobby this morning when you came in with your family.\u00a0 <\/span>How long are you staying?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily looked up at the two boys and smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>She thought they were very handsome and had amazing bodies.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi!\u00a0 <\/span>My name\u2019s Emily, and we\u2019re here for a few days before we head over to Nantucket.\u00a0 <\/span>Where are you guys from?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The two boys sat down on the edge of the pool with Emily and started to chat with her.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily was quite taken with the two handsome young men. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re from Georgia, but we go to school at Virginia Tech.\u00a0 <\/span>My brother, Jeremy is a Junior, and I\u2019ll be starting this coming fall as a freshman,\u201d Kerry answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m from Carson City, Nevada.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll be a junior in high school this next year.\u00a0 <\/span>I haven\u2019t decided yet where I want to go to college.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sure my parents would like me to go to Harvard since they both went there, but we’ll see.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica was watching Emily, and the two boys mingle, and she smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>She hoped there would be some kids around her age she could friend while they were on their trip so she would not feel so isolated.\u00a0 <\/span>It seemed Jessica\u2019s wish was coming true, but she didn\u2019t know how Adam would take to her first encounter with kids around her age being boys.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica got into the pool, swam over to Adam and Jillian and pointed out the boys talking to their oldest daughter.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLook, Adam, isn\u2019t it cute how those boys are falling all over Emily?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Taking first note of his daughter sitting, smiling, and talking to a couple of young men, Adam\u2019s smile turned to a face of concern.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not sure I want young men flirting with our daughter, Jessica.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Adam, stop being such a fuddy-duddy.\u00a0 <\/span>Let Emily have some fun this summer.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s not like she\u2019s going to continue anything with these boys after we leave.\u00a0 <\/span>Let her have fun with the younger crowd while she\u2019s here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI guess you\u2019re right, Jess.\u00a0 <\/span>I just don\u2019t want her thinking if I let her hang out with boys while we\u2019re on vacation, that she can ask for us to soften our rules with Trey once we\u2019re back home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe can make it very clear to her while she\u2019s here, she can befriend boys and hang out with them as long as we know who their parents are and we are aware where she\u2019s at all the time.\u00a0 <\/span>Okay, Mr. Stick In The Mud?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWho are you calling stick in the mud?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked as he picked Jessica up screaming and tossed her into the water getting her all wet.<\/span><\/p>\n

When Jessica came up, Jillian and Adam were laughing.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica came over and splashed Adam, laughing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re going to so pay for that tonight, Mr. Adam Cartwright.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam grabbed his wife around the waist and asked, \u201cIs that a promise?\u201d and kissed her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey!\u00a0 <\/span>What about me?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian asked.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWill you throw me to Mommy, Daddy?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure, Sweetpea.\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy, you stand over there so you can catch Jillian.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica moved to a little deeper water so she would be able to grab Jillian in the water and her weight would be more dispersed.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam picked her up, tossed her to Jessica and she squealed with excitement as Jessica caught her in a big splash.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s my parents, Jessica, and Adam with my baby sister, Jillian,\u201d Emily told Jeremy and Kerry.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re dad must work out a lot.\u00a0 <\/span>He looks great for an old guy,\u201d Kerry commented.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s not that old,\u201d Emily defended.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHe\u2019s in his mid-forties.\u00a0 <\/span>Yeah, he works out just about every day.\u00a0 <\/span>They have a gym in the same building where he works.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re mom’s hot!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jeremy added.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cShe\u2019s a real looker.\u00a0 <\/span>I see where you get your beautiful looks from.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI do take a lot after my mom; my sister does, too.\u00a0 <\/span>Our older brother looks a lot like our dad.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou have a brother, too?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jeremy asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, he\u2019s here with his girlfriend, Brianna.\u00a0 <\/span>Brie\u2019s parents are here as well.\u00a0 <\/span>In fact, Brie\u2019s uncle is the manager of this resort.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s cool!\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019re here with our parents.\u00a0 <\/span>We don\u2019t have any other brothers or sisters.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s just us two and our parents,\u201d Kerry said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo, do you have any plans tonight?\u00a0 <\/span>You and the rest of your family having dinner anywhere?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe parentals are having dinner at one of the restaurants here at the resort.\u00a0 <\/span>My sister and I are having dinner with Jason and Brie.\u00a0 <\/span>After that, I don\u2019t know what we\u2019re going to do.\u00a0 <\/span>I read in the daily activities newsletter in our suite there is a beach party tonight.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m hoping Jason and Brie will want to go.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t know if Daddy would let me go alone.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s where Kerry and I\u2019ll be tonight.\u00a0 <\/span>We hope to see you there!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jeremy said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe have to get going.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019re playing a round of golf with our dad this afternoon.\u00a0 <\/span>Hope to see you tonight.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay! Nice to meet you!\u00a0 <\/span>Hope to see you tonight!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Once Jeremy and Kerry were gone, Emily jumped in the pool and swam down to where Adam, Jessica, and Jillian were. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThose two boys were really cute, Emily, who were they?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica was interested to know.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Mommy!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily blushed.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cTheir names are Jeremy and Kerry.\u00a0 <\/span>They live in Georgia. Jeremy is going to be a junior at Virginia Tech and his younger brother, Kerry is starting there in the fall.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam said nothing.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily looked at her father and wondered what was going through his mind.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat, Daddy!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily wondered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNothing, Princess.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t mind you talking to boys while we\u2019re on vacation, but when we get back home, don\u2019t ask to have the restrictions Mommy and I have placed on your relationship with Trey lifted, do I make myself clear?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily rolled her eyes and answered, \u201cCrystal clear, Daddy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood, now come\u2019re, girl,\u201d Adam scooped Emily up in his arms and threw her down into the deep end of the pool.\u00a0 <\/span>She went flying screaming into the water with a big splash.\u00a0 <\/span>When she came up, Adam, Jessica, and Jillian were laughing. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy! I\u2019m going to get you for that!\u201d Emily said laughing as she came swimming back to where Adam was standing.\u00a0 <\/span>She dove down and tried to take his legs out from under him, but he grabbed her from under the water, scooped her into his arms, kissed her on the forehead, and tossed her back into the deep end again.<\/span><\/p>\n

When Emily came up again, Adam, Jessica, and Jillian were laughing even harder. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy, you don\u2019t play fair!\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re bigger and stronger than me!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily protested as she swam back to where her parents and Jillian were.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs the poor princess all wet?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian teased. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, like the sweetpea is going to be,\u201d and Emily dunked her sister under. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey!\u201d Jillian laughed as she came back up. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica came and wrapped her arms around Adam and laid her head on his chest.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cThis is the best vacation we\u2019ve had in a long time, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Thank you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked down at Jessica and lifted her chin up to meet his face.\u00a0 <\/span>He bent down and said, \u201cYou\u2019re welcome,\u201d and kissed her lips.<\/span><\/p>\n

A few hours passed, Jessica and Adam needed to get back to start getting ready for dinner with Brianna\u2019s parents.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily and Jillian decided they would stay in their bikinis and lay out on their patio and enjoy the Cape Cod sun.\u00a0 <\/span>Once back at their suites, Jessica went on upstairs to take a shower while Adam re-applied more sunscreen to his daughter\u2019s backs so they would not get sunburned while lying out on their patio.\u00a0 <\/span>The girls turned on some music and danced a little bit before lying down on their chaise lounges and talking about how much fun they were having.<\/span><\/p>\n

When the phone rang, Emily went to answer it, and it was Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>He asked if they would like to go to the clambake down at the beach for dinner.\u00a0 <\/span>There was going to be a big party with dancing, food, and fun.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily was excited because she thought this must be the party Jeremy and Kerry were talking about.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily said she and Jillian would love to go to the clambake, and they would be ready at 6:00 P.M. <\/span><\/p>\n

Shortly before 6:00 P.M. Adam and Jessica came down to let Emily and Jillian know they were headed to the restaurant to meet Brianna\u2019s parents.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily informed her parents that she, Jason, Brianna, and Jillian were going to the clambake down at the beach. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHave fun, Honey,\u201d Jessica said as she gave her daughter\u2019s a kiss.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cStay with Jason and Brie.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe will, Mommy, I promise,\u201d Emily said as both girls finished giving a kiss and hug to both parents.<\/span><\/p>\n

When Adam and Jessica left, the girls squealed with excitement and gave each other a high five. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s party!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

The girls changed into their shorts and halter tops their mother had bought them when they went shopping for clothes just before their trip, and it wasn\u2019t long before Jason and Brianna came to pick them up to head to the beach for the clambake.<\/span><\/p>\n

At the clambake, Jeremy was the first to spot Emily, and he and Kerry came over to where Jason, Brianna, and Jillian were sitting.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi! I see you came tonight!\u00a0 <\/span>I hope you\u2019ll reserve a spot on your dance card for me tonight,\u201d Kerry asked. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, hi!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily smiled as she looked up and saw the two brothers in shorts and tank tops. \u201cJeremy, Kerry, this is my brother, Jason, and his girlfriend, Brianna and my sister, Jillian.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason, Brianna, Jillian, this is Jeremy and Kerry.\u00a0 <\/span>I met them at the pool this afternoon.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNice to meet you.\u00a0 <\/span>Would you like to join us?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure, thanks!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Kerry answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

The two brothers sat down and got to know Jason, Brianna, Emily, and Jillian a little bit better.\u00a0 <\/span>Jeremy and Jason swapped college talk while Brianna joined in with Jason and Jeremy, but also joined in with Emily, Kerry, and Jillian at times.<\/span><\/p>\n

When the dancing started, the group would sometimes dance together, and other times, Jeremy would dance with Brianna while Jason danced with his sister, Jillian. <\/span><\/p>\n

As the sun set on the horizon, the beach torches were lit, and a limbo contest got underway followed by sexy legs and hot body contest.\u00a0 <\/span>Kerry won sexy legs while Jason took the hot body prize; both boys received medals for their accomplishment.\u00a0 <\/span>Jeremy was runner-up in the limbo contest. <\/span><\/p>\n

Midnight was fast approaching, and the party was starting to dwindle down.\u00a0 <\/span>Since Jason and Adam had an early tee time the next morning, he and Brianna walked the girls back to their suite.\u00a0 <\/span>He called up to Adam and Jessica\u2019s suite, where they were enjoying a glass of wine on their terrace, to let them know the girls were safe in their suite, and they were headed back to theirs. <\/span><\/p>\n

The next morning, the sun sparkled across the water around 5:30 AM.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason woke early and was standing out on his and Brianna\u2019s veranda when she rolled over to find he was not in bed.\u00a0 <\/span>She saw Jason standing at the railing drinking a cup of coffee, so she put on her silk robe and joined him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI would like to take a walk on the beach, you up for it?\u201d he asked Brianna.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI would love it! let me go put on some shorts.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna quickly put on her shorts, a tank top and the two walked down the steps to the sand and headed for the shore.\u00a0 <\/span>They walked hand in hand a short way before Jason stopped and pulled Brianna into his chest and hugged her tight.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBrie, this past year has been the best year of my entire life.\u00a0 <\/span>When we met, I knew immediately I wanted to spend the rest of my life with you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, you know how much I love you, too.\u00a0 <\/span>This year has been perfect for me, as well!\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m looking forward to many more just like it!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Tears started to fill Jason\u2019s eyes as he stared into his beloved\u2019s eyes.\u00a0 <\/span>He tried to speak but found it difficult because his emotions overtook him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, what\u2019s wrong?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna\u2019s face fell from contentment to one of concern.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason shook his head, he still could not speak.\u00a0 <\/span>He then dropped to one knee and pulled a red velvet box from his pocket and opened it.\u00a0 <\/span>He held it up and was finally able to speak.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBrianna, I know we were going to wait until we were out of college, but I love you so much, and I can\u2019t hold on; I don\u2019t want to wait.\u00a0 <\/span>Will you do me the honor of being my wife?\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna, will you marry me?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna stood in shock.\u00a0 <\/span>She gasped as she said, \u201cOh my gosh, Jason!\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s beautiful!\u00a0 <\/span>Yes!\u00a0 <\/span>Yes!\u00a0 <\/span>Yes!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna handed her shaking left hand to Jason as he placed the two-karat pear-shaped diamond and platinum ring on her left ring finger.\u00a0 <\/span>Once the ring was on her finger, she looked at the thick band of platinum and the high mounted diamond which rose from the center of the band.\u00a0 <\/span>She hugged Jason, and they fell to the sand kissing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you so much, Brie.\u00a0 <\/span>I can\u2019t wait for you to be my wife.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, I dreamed about this day since last Christmas when you gave me the beautiful necklace and told me then you wanted to one day make me your wife.\u00a0 <\/span>I look forward to the day\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m Brianna Cartwright.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason was fighting back tears of joy again.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI sure like the sound of Brianna Cartwright.\u00a0 <\/span>What do you say we make it official next summer?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna looked at Jason with a surprised look.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI thought you wanted to wait until we were out of college to get married?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI thought I did, too,\u201d Jason said as he held Brianna\u2019s left hand, looking down at the engagement ring he just slipped on her finger. \u201cthis whole year, my love for you has grown stronger and stronger and, well, I just don\u2019t want to wait.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll be heading into our junior year, and we\u2019ll just have two years of school left.\u00a0 <\/span>We can be married and go to school, too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you think our parents will say?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna wondered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat can they say?\u00a0 <\/span>This is our decision.\u00a0 <\/span>We’re grown adults,\u201d Jason said with a matter of fact tone.<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cNext summer sounds perfect!\u00a0 <\/span>Shall we tell everyone at breakfast?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOf course!\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t want to hide this or the fact that you are now my fianc\u00e9e from anyone!\u201d Jason answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

The newly engaged couple got up from the sand, dusted themselves off and headed back to their suite to get ready for breakfast.\u00a0 <\/span>He, Adam, and Brianna\u2019s father, Anthony would be heading out from breakfast to play golf while the girls would be spending several hours at the spa getting massages, facials, manicures, and pedicures.\u00a0 <\/span>The couple could not wait to show off Brianna\u2019s new ring and share their joyful news with the rest of the family.<\/span><\/p>\n

Everyone met at the patio cafe for breakfast where they had lunch the previous day.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna purposely held her hands down in her lap so nobody would notice her ring before she and Jason could make the big announcement.\u00a0 <\/span>Once the waitress had taken everyone\u2019s order and had brought the orange or apple juice, and coffee to everyone, Jason alerted everyone he and Brianna had an announcement to make.\u00a0 <\/span>The couple stood up, and Jason began to speak.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAs you all know, back at Christmas, I made a promise to Brianna one day I would ask to take her hand in marriage.\u00a0 <\/span>This morning, while we were taking a sunrise stroll on the beach, I knelt down on one knee and asked her to be my wife, and she said yes.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna held out her hand and showed everyone her new engagement ring.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam, Jessica, Anthony, and Theresa sat in shock, while Emily and Jillian got up to hug their brother and soon to be sister-in-law. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMom, Dad, aren\u2019t you happy for us?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna asked her parents.<\/span><\/p>\n

Theresa and Anthony\u2019s faces softened, and they got up to congratulate the couple as they kissed and hugged both their daughter and future son-in-law.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCongratulations, Brianna!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Anthony said as he hugged and kissed his child.\u00a0 <\/span>As he shook Jason\u2019s hand, he said, \u201cWelcome to the family, Jason!\u00a0 <\/span>We’ve felt like you\u2019ve always belonged, but I guess now, it\u2019s a bit more official isn\u2019t it?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir, I guess it is!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Jessica both stared at each other.\u00a0 <\/span>They couldn\u2019t believe their ears.\u00a0 <\/span>Once Jason and Brianna finished hugging her parents, they then turned to Jason\u2019s.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMom?\u00a0 <\/span>Dad?\u00a0 <\/span>I know this has come as a shock to you.\u00a0 <\/span>I decided to keep this only to myself because, well, I know I said I was planning to wait until we were seniors in college, but I love this woman more than you\u2019ll ever know.\u00a0 <\/span>I just couldn\u2019t wait any longer.\u00a0 <\/span>I had to make her my fianc\u00e9e, and thank goodness she said, yes!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason explained as he stared into Brianna\u2019s eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Jessica\u2019s body language changed to happiness for the couple as they rose to embrace their son and future daughter-in-law.\u00a0 <\/span>After all the congratulations had been exchanged, everyone sat back down and enjoyed their breakfast as it started to arrive.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe have one more announcement to make to everyone,\u201d Jason said over the noise of forks and knives clinking against the ceramic plates.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cBrie and I are planning to marry next summer.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica dropped her fork as Jason announced the plans for a wedding the following summer.\u00a0 <\/span>Even this caused a pause for Brianna\u2019s parents.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam sat in quiet concern, but elected to not say anything until Jessica turned to him and quietly said, \u201cAdam, say something to your son, will you?!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason,\u201d Adam started, \u201cyour mother and I, as well as Brie\u2019s parents, I\u2019m sure,\u201d gesturing to Brianna\u2019s parents, \u201care excited for the two of you.\u00a0 <\/span>We both can\u2019t think of better spouses for our children.\u00a0 <\/span>However, I would be remiss if I didn\u2019t voice your mother\u2019s and my concern about you getting married before you graduate college.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad, I knew you and Mom might react this way.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve thought long and hard about this before asking Brianna to be my wife.\u00a0 <\/span>The truth is, I don\u2019t want to wait.\u00a0 <\/span>I love her, and she loves me.\u00a0 <\/span>I know this seems a bit out of character for me, but I can\u2019t wait, I don\u2019t want to wait.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll understand if you no longer want to pay for my college and living expenses.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll get loans, continue to work, but she\u2019ll be my wife, and we\u2019ll both finish college.\u00a0 <\/span>We both make that promise to all four of you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoney, it\u2019s not a matter of us paying for your college.\u00a0 <\/span>I can\u2019t speak for Brie\u2019s parents, but for your dad and I, our last gift to you is to pay for your college, and we\u2019ll continue to pay for it,\u201d Jessica explained.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe apartment is paid for, so it\u2019s not an issue either, Son,\u201d Adam interjected.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cBeing married brings a whole new set of responsibilities.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019ll have a wife you\u2019ll need to take care of.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019ll have the stresses of daily married life on top of your already demanding course load at school.\u00a0 <\/span>Marriage is not always a smooth road to travel.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Dad.\u00a0 <\/span>Don\u2019t you think I\u2019ve thought long and hard about this?\u00a0 <\/span>I just didn\u2019t wake up this morning and decide to propose to the woman I love.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve thought long and hard, I\u2019ve even agonized over it.\u00a0 <\/span>I know we\u2019ll have moments of strife.\u00a0 <\/span>I know it won\u2019t be easy being newly married and trying to finish the last two years of school,\u201d Jason then took Brianna\u2019s hand, \u201cI just can\u2019t imagine not having Brie as my wife and the sooner, the better.\u00a0 <\/span>I love her so much.\u00a0 <\/span>I knew it from the moment I laid eyes on her.\u00a0 <\/span>I can\u2019t wait, I don\u2019t want to wait.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t know how much more clear I can be.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSweetheart,\u201d Brianna\u2019s mother now spoke up, \u201cthis is a huge step in your life.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason has thought about it, but have you?\u00a0 <\/span>You know we love Jason and we can\u2019t think of a better son-in-law to have than him.\u00a0 <\/span>Planning a wedding takes so much time.\u00a0 <\/span>You say you want to get married next summer.\u00a0 <\/span>This means you\u2019re going to have to start planning right away!\u00a0 <\/span>How do you expect to plan a wedding, go to school, and hold down a part-time job, too?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMom, it\u2019s a matter of priorities.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason is my top priority along with school.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m only working a few days a week at the campus bookstore.\u00a0 <\/span>The weekends will be free to do wedding preparations and the nights I\u2019m not working, I\u2019ll be free to study and do wedding stuff then, too! Between fall and spring semesters, we can look for a wedding gown and do significant planning then.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna then looked at Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWe haven\u2019t set a date yet; he just said next summer.\u00a0 <\/span>We can make it late in the summer just before school starts again if we have to.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEnough time to have a wedding and take a proper honeymoon, of course,\u201d Jason winked and smiled at his fianc\u00e9e.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll speak with David when we return home, Honey.\u00a0 <\/span>I know he\u2019ll be of great assistance to you in helping take the stress of wedding preparations off you,\u201d Theresa said to her daughter.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDavid?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason asked Brianna.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDavid Tutera, Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>He\u2019s a wedding planner and has planned some fabulous weddings for celebrities.\u00a0 <\/span>He and my mother have been good friends a long time.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve known him for years.\u00a0 <\/span>Thanks, Mom.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s so cool!\u00a0 <\/span>I love him!\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve seen his show\u2019s on TV before,\u201d Emily spoke up.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHe\u2019s really cool, Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>You have nothing to worry about, trust me,\u201d Emily grinned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNow I\u2019m worried,\u201d Jason laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

The whole table laughed as Emily punched her brother in the arm and he took her into a headlock.<\/span><\/p>\n

Everyone started to eat again, and the mood relaxed as everyone began to accept there would be a Nelson-Cartwright wedding the following summer. <\/span><\/p>\n

After breakfast, the men left for the pro shop to gather their clubs and cart for golf and the ladies headed to the spa.\u00a0 <\/span>Theresa told Jessica she would like to stop off at her brother\u2019s office to let him know about the engagement and see if he could not put together a private dining room for everyone that night so they could have a proper engagement celebration.<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna, Emily, and Jillian were all having massages together when Brianna asked the two Cartwright girls how they felt about the news of the engagement announcement.\u00a0 <\/span>Both girls told Brianna while they were surprised, they were both jubilant and excited about the news she was marrying their brother because they saw how happy and in love Jason was with her and they couldn\u2019t wait for her to become their sister-in-law. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI would really love for you two girls to be bridesmaids in our wedding,\u201d Brianna said to them when they were finished with their massages and waiting for the next appointment of their spa day, the facials. <\/span><\/p>\n

Each of the girls graciously accepted their invitation to be part of the wedding party and gave Brianna a hug and kiss. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy childhood best friend hopefully will be my Maid Of Honor.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s getting married next December, and we’ll be busy planning her wedding also, so I\u2019m hoping she\u2019ll be able to come up for my wedding.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s living in Florida going to the University of Miami, and she\u2019ll be getting married in Key West.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you in her wedding, Brie?\u201d Emily asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I\u2019m a bridesmaid.\u00a0 <\/span>Her sister is her Matron Of Honor; we are the only two who will be in the bride\u2019s wedding party.\u00a0 <\/span>Her brother, Lance, and Andrew, her fianc\u00e9\u2019s brother, will be the two men standing up for her fianc\u00e9.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

While the three girls headed in for their facials, the mothers came from their facials and went in for their massages. <\/span><\/p>\n

While Jessica and Theresa were laying on their stomachs enjoying the full body massage, Theresa opened up the conversation of the announcement that took everyone by surprise at breakfast.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJessica, I know Jason\u2019s announcement took you and Adam off guard this morning, but I know Jason wouldn\u2019t have made such a huge life altering decision if he didn\u2019t feel he and Brianna could continue on with their education as a married couple.\u00a0 <\/span>Tony and I are very excited about having Jason as our future son-in-law.\u00a0 <\/span>We loved him from the moment we met him.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll do all we can to help make their transition as smooth as possible.\u00a0 <\/span>We want nothing more than to see them graduate and succeed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam and I fell in love at Harvard.\u00a0 <\/span>He knew he wanted to marry me his freshman year as well.\u00a0 <\/span>I knew I loved Adam, and I wanted to marry him also, but he didn\u2019t propose until our senior year.\u00a0 <\/span>When Jason brought Brianna home last Christmas for us to meet her, we could see the love in our son\u2019s eyes, and we knew it was just a matter of time.\u00a0 <\/span>I just never would\u2019ve thought it would be so soon.\u00a0 <\/span>I know my son, however.\u00a0 <\/span>I know he would never propose unless he had it all thought out in his head.\u00a0 <\/span>He would never let his love for Brianna get in the way of knowing what is best for them both.\u00a0 <\/span>It just took us a bit off guard, that\u2019s all.\u00a0 <\/span>We, of course, would have preferred them to wait, but we\u2019re excited nonetheless.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI would love to have you and the girls come to Connecticut when Brie and I go shopping for her wedding dress.\u00a0 <\/span>We can make a weekend of it in New York!\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll shop for dresses and maybe catch a Broadway show, what do you think?\u00a0 <\/span>Do you think your girls would like to do something like that?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know they would love it.\u00a0 <\/span>They have never been to New York, so it\u2019ll be an incredible experience for them.\u00a0 <\/span>We can tell them tonight at dinner.\u00a0 <\/span>Thank you so much for such a fabulous invitation.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019ll give me a little insight into what being a mother of the bride will be like for me.\u00a0 <\/span>Oh gosh, I can only imagine what it\u2019ll be like with Emily.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam has treated her like a princess since she was in my womb.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian will probably say, whatever you want to do, Mommy, I\u2019m fine with.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily on the other hand, she\u2019ll be my bridezilla.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The two women laughed heartily at the bridezilla comment as they continued to get their massages.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBrianna\u2019s an easy going girl, but she has her moments.\u00a0 <\/span>She does trust my friend, David, so I\u2019m sure she\u2019ll be okay with him making most of the arrangements.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s always told me she\u2019ll know the right dress if it makes me cry.\u00a0 <\/span>I told her the perfect dress is a dress she loves, and she feels comfortable in, but she wants me to love it as well.\u00a0 <\/span>Thank goodness we do have similar tastes.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI feel the same way.\u00a0 <\/span>Thank goodness Emily has never been one to wear trendy clothes.\u00a0 <\/span>My daughter could make a potato sack look good, but she does know fashion, and she knows what looks good on her and what doesn\u2019t.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t think I\u2019ll have to worry about her wanting something off the charts.\u00a0 <\/span>My primary concern will be Adam\u2019s wallet,\u201d Jessica laughed.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI have a feeling they\u2019ll butt heads more than she and I will!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

On the golf course, the men were playing golf and Adam noticed Jason was a bit quiet.\u00a0 <\/span>He and Anthony tried to engage him in conversation about college, architecture, engineering, and Jason joined in when he felt he had something to add, but Adam noticed his son\u2019s thoughts were miles away. <\/span><\/p>\n

When they reached the sixteenth hole, Adam stopped and asked Jason if there was something he wanted to talk about or share. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI want you to be happy for me, Dad,\u201d Jason said swinging his club slightly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked a bit befuddled at Jason\u2019s comment.\u00a0 <\/span>He looked over at Anthony and then back at Jason. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, why would you think I\u2019m not happy for you?\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m thrilled you and Brie want to get married.\u00a0 <\/span>You two took us by surprise, that\u2019s all. We want the best for both of you. We wouldn\u2019t be good parents if we didn\u2019t make sure you had thought of everything clearly and were not letting the love you feel for each other cloud obvious facts.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, if you had been my son, I would have been asking the same questions.\u00a0 <\/span>Nothing thrills Theresa and me more than to know you want to marry our daughter.\u00a0 <\/span>We couldn\u2019t have made a better choice for Brianna, but as a parent, there\u2019s always a concern things are happening too quickly.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ve been where you are, we know the struggles of being newly married, making ends meet, and in your case, also making sure you finish college.\u00a0 <\/span>Like Adam and Jessica, we\u2019ll continue to pay Brianna\u2019s college tuition.\u00a0 <\/span>Our primary focus for you two is you finish school and you not worry about going into debt to finish.\u00a0 <\/span>Debt is not a way to start off a marriage,\u201d Tony added.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMom and I have no doubt you and Brie are going to be happy together.\u00a0 <\/span>Deep in my heart, I knew you had thought everything through before you even bought the ring.\u00a0 <\/span>It just took us all by surprise, that\u2019s all.\u00a0 <\/span>I was pleased to see you had even thought about the payment of your\u2019s and Brie\u2019s education and living expenses; you just didn\u2019t take it for granted everything would continue status quo.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m proud of you, Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019ll be a wonderful husband to Brie, and you already know we consider her our daughter-in-law.\u00a0 <\/span>You two will just seal the deal now,\u201d Adam concluded.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason looked up and smiled at his father.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam grabbed his son and gave him a hug.\u00a0 <\/span>Anthony then held out his arms and said, \u201cCome here, Son-in-law, welcome to the family.\u00a0 <\/span>We love you so much, and can\u2019t wait until the day you call our daughter your wife.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

When Adam returned to the suite he, found Jessica sitting out on the veranda reading a book. He bent down, gave her a kiss and asked her about her spa experience.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was incredible.\u00a0 <\/span>The girls had a blast, especially Jillian.\u00a0 <\/span>She felt so pampered.\u00a0 <\/span>I was really unsure if she would enjoy it as much as Emily and I because she doesn\u2019t really seem to be the type to enjoy that kind of things, but I\u2019ve found my baby girl is all girl under her studious exterior.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I thought I was only going to have to worry about my wallet with one girl, and you\u2019re telling me I\u2019ve got to worry about Jillian, too?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica laughed at Adam\u2019s wallet fears.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cExcuse me, sir, but unless you\u2019re planning to divorce me again, it looks like your wallet worries will last a lifetime.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam pulled out his wallet and tossed it onto Jessica\u2019s lap.\u00a0 <\/span>She looked at him and held up his wallet with a confused look on her face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou said I\u2019ll have a lifetime of wallet worries, but if I just hand it over to you now, all my fears will become your concerns,\u201d Adam said and stuck out his tongue. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica got up and beat Adam playfully with the wallet on his chest and said, \u201cAdam Cartwright, just for that, I\u2019ll make sure I go charge that gorgeous gown I saw in the hotel\u2019s boutique window this morning on the way from the spa to our room.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m only kidding, Babe.\u00a0 <\/span>You do an excellent job with the household budget, and you\u2019ve never spent a lot of money without talking it over with me first, and I appreciate that very much,\u201d Adam said as he dropped a gentle kiss on Jessica\u2019s lips.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, you work very hard and even when we were divorced, you always provided for the kids and me.\u00a0 <\/span>I was very grateful to you then, and I\u2019m grateful to you now.\u00a0 <\/span>I know all our kids are thankful for how hard you work to give them everything they have.\u00a0 <\/span>Our kids are not selfish brats, they are loving and very giving children.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019re so blessed they don\u2019t expect us to just give them money whenever they demand it.\u00a0 <\/span>They know the value of a dollar, and they know it is earned and not just given on a whim.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason was reserved today playing golf,\u201d Adam explained.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHe contributed to our conversation, but I could tell he was not completely with us, so I finally asked him if there was something he needed to get off his chest.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat did he say?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe was concerned we felt like he was making a rash decision by asking Brie to marry him with several more years of school left.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat did you tell him, Adam?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI explained to him it came as a shock to us, but we were happy for him and Brie.\u00a0 <\/span>I told him I knew he had thought it all through and appreciated how he felt he needed to take on full responsibility for his education and living expenses.\u00a0 <\/span>I think kids in our children\u2019s same economic circle would expect their parents would continue to pave the way for them, but Jason had already thought it through otherwise.\u00a0 <\/span>He felt if he was leaving our home to make a new home with his new wife, he needed to take on full responsibility for everything, including their education and housing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou made it clear we are going to continue to pay for his education didn\u2019t you?\u00a0 <\/span>This is money we already had budgeted for each of our kids.\u00a0 <\/span>The apartment is also paid for.\u00a0 <\/span>There\u2019s no need for them to move from there.\u00a0 <\/span>I want them to concentrate on getting good grades.\u00a0 <\/span>There will be time enough later to worry about mortgages and education expenses if they choose to get a post-graduate degree.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, he knows, Jess.\u00a0 <\/span>Tony reiterated the same for Brie\u2019s education, too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTheresa has invited the girls and me to New York when Brianna goes dress shopping.\u00a0 <\/span>We don\u2019t know when it will be yet, of course, but she says when the date is selected, she\u2019ll be in touch, and she wants to make a weekend of it.\u00a0 <\/span>I know the girls will love spending a weekend in New York!\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019ll give me a little insight into what being a mother of the bride is all about.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam again handed Jessica his wallet.\u00a0 <\/span>She laughed and kissed Adam\u2019s cheek. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry, Love.\u00a0 <\/span>When the day comes for Emily -and Jillian- to get married, we\u2019ll sit down and discuss a budget before the first grain of rice is bought.\u00a0 <\/span>The girls will know even though we can afford a platinum wedding, boundaries will be set, and they cannot be crossed without authorization from you, first.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, Jess,\u201d Adam said hugging his wife tightly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhere did that come from?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u00a0 <\/span>Now I can\u2019t tell my wife I love her?\u00a0 <\/span>Have we been married that long already?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam laughed.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI love you because you are not only an amazing mother, but you are the most loving wife I\u2019ve had the pleasure of being married to.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLike you\u2019ve been married a dozen times, Mr. Adam Cartwright,\u201d Jessica giggled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou know what I mean, Mrs. Jessica Cartwright,\u201d Adam said as he drew a heart with his finger on Jessica\u2019s chest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI do, Babe.\u00a0 <\/span>Now, what you don\u2019t know is Theresa spoke to her brother today about having a surprise engagement party for the family in one of their private dining rooms tonight.\u00a0 <\/span>We need to get ready because I think dinner is going to be around 6:00 P.M.\u00a0 <\/span>When we get home, I would like to plan something for the kids the next time they are home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSounds good.\u00a0 <\/span>Now, let’s get dressed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam headed to the suite, and he then turned around and inquired about the girls.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre they getting dressed for dinner yet?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know.\u00a0 <\/span>Go on and get in the shower, I\u2019ll give them a call and make sure they are.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam headed into the bedroom and turned on the shower.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica called down to Emily\u2019s and Jillian\u2019s suite and found they were getting dressed, and they would be ready by 5:30 P.M.<\/span><\/p>\n

Upon arrival to the private dining room, the two families knew Jackson had told Jason and Brianna to come at 6:15 P.M. so that they could surprise them with the engagement party.\u00a0 <\/span>Once the couple arrived, Jackson\u2019s wife and Brianna\u2019s aunt, Audrey, was introduced to everyone and champagne was passed around to everyone including Emily and Jillian. The girls were excited that they, too, were able to drink a glass of champagne for this very special occasion.\u00a0 <\/span>A toast was made to the newly engaged couple, and the pastry chef brought out a magnificent cake in celebration of the couple\u2019s engagement. <\/span><\/p>\n

When Jillian drank the champagne, her face scrunched up in a sour face.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cThis is gross, Mommy!\u00a0 <\/span>I think I\u2019ll stick to the kids stuff,\u201d Jillian bellowed. <\/span><\/p>\n

Everyone burst out in laughter at Jillian\u2019s comments about champagne.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBaby Girl, you\u2019ll probably like it later on in life when your taste buds mature a bit more,\u201d Jessica explained to Jillian still laughing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt sure is better tasting than nasty beer!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily piped in.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou were allowed to partake because it was a special occasion, Princess.\u00a0 <\/span>This is an exception, not the rule.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam noted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Daddy, and I appreciate you and Mommy allowing Jillian and me to have some, even if Jillian didn\u2019t like it,\u201d Emily smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the family sat down for dinner, each place setting had a special menu made up with Jason and Brianna\u2019s name, the date, and \u201cEngagement Celebration\u201d written on the menu cards.\u00a0 <\/span>Jackson had the staff photographer come in and take pictures of the evening for their memory book.\u00a0 <\/span>The hotel\u2019s DJ also played soft music during dinner and the family danced for several hours after they ate.<\/span><\/p>\n

When the night came to a close, Jason and Brianna thanked Jackson for the special evening, and he told them he couldn\u2019t think of a better couple to shower a special night on.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam and Jessica said goodnight to Jackson and his wife.\u00a0 <\/span>They, along with the two girls headed back to the suites for a good night\u2019s sleep. <\/span><\/p>\n

The next day was spent at leisure beside the pool and a little time at the beach.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam called Rebecca to let her know they were on the Cape, and they looked forward to seeing her and her family the next afternoon.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the day came to a close, Jessica packed up their clothes and went down to Emily and Jillian\u2019s suite to do the same for their clothes.\u00a0 <\/span>They all dressed for a final night at the Cape with Brianna\u2019s parents, aunt, and uncle, as they all went down to the beach for the second of two weekly clambakes the hotel offered. <\/span><\/p>\n

Emily ran into Jeremy and Kerry.\u00a0 <\/span>She introduced them to Adam, Jessica, Anthony, Theresa, Jackson, and Audrey.\u00a0 <\/span>Jeremy and Kerry\u2019s parents were also in attendance at the clambake, and when they were able, they brought Emily over to meet their parents as Kerry had told them about the beautiful young lady from Nevada they had met at the pool a few days before.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Kerry and Emily were dancing, she broke the news to Kerry they were leaving for Nantucket the next day, and she had had a good time with him at the clambake the night before last and that night.\u00a0 <\/span>When Kerry asked if he could call her sometime or email, Emily said she didn\u2019t mind, but she felt he should know she had a boyfriend back at home.\u00a0 <\/span>Kerry was disappointed but understood.\u00a0 <\/span>He told her he really liked her as a friend and hoped they could keep in touch as such anyway.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily smiled and thanked him, telling him she would like it very much and they exchanged phone numbers and email addresses. <\/span><\/p>\n

At the end of the evening, everyone said goodnight and again thanked Jackson for his excellent hospitality.\u00a0 <\/span>Jackson announced he had arranged for breakfast to be brought up by room service in the morning since he knew everyone would be busy getting ready to leave and catch the ferry to Nantucket.\u00a0 <\/span>Anthony and Theresa said their goodbyes to everyone and invited Adam and Jessica to come to Connecticut whenever they liked.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam and Jessica also asked Anthony and Theresa to come to Nevada if they ever wanted to venture out west.\u00a0 <\/span>Anthony was anxious to see the Ponderosa Ranch, and told Adam the following spring or summer, he and his wife would plan a trip out their way.<\/span><\/p>\n

When Jessica and Adam arrived back at their suite, Jessica headed straight for the bathroom and turned on the shower to rinse off the sand stuck to her body.\u00a0 <\/span>After she had got out, Adam did the same, and she brought him clean boxers to put on when he got out.\u00a0 <\/span>When he came back into the bedroom, he saw Jessica curled up in the middle of the bed with her head partially on her pillow and Adam\u2019s curled up under her arm.\u00a0 <\/span>He gently pulled his pillow from under her arm, and she scooted over so he could get in bed.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica snuggled up to her husband and wrapped her arms around him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t believe a week has already gone by!\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve had so much fun, I don\u2019t want it to end!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s been an eventful week, hasn\u2019t it?\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ve shown our girls where we went to school and fell in love, our son got engaged, and now, we\u2019re headed to Nantucket, and I believe, if memory serves me right, someone has a birthday coming up.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica sat up and smiled at Adam, \u201cI wonder who\u2019s?\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam pushed a lock of Jessica\u2019s hair from her face and said, \u201cGee, I don\u2019t know!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica laughed and laid her head down on Adam\u2019s chest. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t go doing anything special for my birthday, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>This is a family vacation.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou let me worry about the vacation plans, Babe,\u201d Adam said as he stroked Jessica\u2019s hair.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, whatever…\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica\u2019s voice trailed off as she drifted off to sleep.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam continued to stroke his wife\u2019s hair until he, too, drifted off to sleep.<\/span><\/p>\n

Information about the resort, Wequassett Resort and Golf Club courtesy of: \u00a0 http:\/\/www.wequassett.com\/<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

Chapter Twelve<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

Friday morning came, the Cartwrights and Brianna all woke up to catch their mid-morning ferry to Nantucket.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Jackson promised, breakfast was delivered to Adam and Jessica\u2019s suite.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam requested breakfast for everyone delivered to their suite and the family would all enjoy breakfast together.\u00a0 <\/span>They enjoyed eggs, bacon, a fresh assortment of baked goods, orange, juice, apple juice, fresh coffee and tea. <\/span><\/p>\n

After they had finished breakfast, and all the luggage was loaded into the SUV, Adam and Jason checked everyone out of the hotel, and they headed to the parking lot for ferry passengers.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam and Jason unloaded the luggage, and they caught the courtesy shuttle to their ferry.\u00a0 <\/span>Upon arrival, the inbound ferry was arriving with passengers coming from Nantucket.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam and Jason loaded the luggage onto the luggage carts which were stowed in a particular area of the ferry so the passengers would not have to place their luggage near their seats during the hour-long ferry ride.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once on the ferry the family took their seats; Adam and Jessica sat next to each other with Jason and Brianna sitting across from them.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily sat next to her mother and Jillian across from Emily next to Brianna.\u00a0 <\/span>As the men discussed studies for the next semester for Jason, as well as financial planning for him and Brianna, the women started to discuss wedding preparations.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure my mother\u2019s been in contact with David already.\u00a0 <\/span>She and David are very dear friends,\u201d Brianna explained to Jessica, Emily, and Jillian.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe fact your mother knows David Tutera is just really cool!\u00a0 <\/span>He\u2019s awesome, and he\u2019s designed some beautiful weddings,\u201d Emily said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI have complete faith in him to make my vision come true for my wedding,\u201d Brianna said, smiling at Emily.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you have in mind for your wedding, Brie?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI haven\u2019t thought about it too much, Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>I always thought I would get married in the wintertime because I\u2019ve always wanted a winter wonderland wedding.\u00a0 <\/span>I guess with us getting married next summer, we\u2019ll have to come up with a different theme.\u00a0 <\/span>I love Newport, Rhode Island.\u00a0 <\/span>I think we can make something happen at one of the lovely mansions there.\u00a0 <\/span>They tend to book up in advance, so I\u2019ll have to get in touch with David as soon as I get home so he can start looking into that possibility.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love Newport.\u00a0 <\/span>Mom, Dad, my brother and I used to go there every Labor Day weekend.\u00a0 <\/span>Mom and Dad have friends there, and we would spend a long weekend with them.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s a beautiful place.\u00a0 <\/span>I know Adam, and I would love to take the girls there for vacation sometime.\u00a0 <\/span>Since you and Jason might be getting married there, we can combine a vacation with the wedding,\u201d Jessica explained.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid I hear my name?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked smiling at the girls, knowing they were most likely talking about girl stuff, namely the wedding.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was explaining to the girls and Brianna Mom Daddy used to take my brother and me to Newport, Rhode Island, at the end of each summer to visit friends and how you and I would like to take the girls there for vacation sometime.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna thought it might be a place for her and Jason\u2019s wedding.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWould like to get married in Newport, Babe?\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll be happy with wherever you want to have our wedding.\u00a0 <\/span>I just want you to be my wife,\u201d Jason said looking at Brianna with loving eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, gosh, Jason,\u00a0 <\/span>you’re just like Daddy,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily started teasing her brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re just jealous, Emily,\u201d Jason teased in return.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf the shoe fits, older brother,\u201d Emily responded sticking out her tongue.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, that\u2019s enough, young lady.\u00a0 <\/span>You know I don\u2019t tolerate rude behavior.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut, Daddy, he was teasing me; he deserved it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily Elizabeth,\u201d Adam\u2019s voice got sterner, \u201cyou started the banter, now it\u2019s time to stop, understood?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Sir,\u201d Emily pouted.<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna gave Emily an understanding look and smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily smiled back, and the men went back to talking about sports, school, and Jason\u2019s future career at Cartwright, Inc.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica and Brianna continued to talk about possible wedding plans and what style she wanted for her gown as well as what she envisioned for the girls.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica felt sure this would excite Emily, but she sat quietly with her arms folded around her waist.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s wrong, Sweetheart?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica turned to her daughter when she didn\u2019t join in on the fashion side of the wedding plans.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy always blames me for everything.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason never gets in trouble,\u201d tears started to well in her eyes as she spoke.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Sweetheart, Daddy doesn\u2019t like you to stick your tongue out.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s not polite, and you know it,\u201d Jessica said as she put her arm around her eldest daughter.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked over at Jessica and Emily as he was commenting on the architecture of the buildings at M.I.T., but didn\u2019t say anything to Emily about her pouting; he felt Jessica was handling it fine.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Mommy, I just get so mad at Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>He doesn\u2019t play fair, and I\u2019m always the one to get in trouble.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUm, not be true, Emmy.\u00a0 <\/span>You do the same thing to me all the time, and I\u2019ve been on the wrong end of Daddy\u2019s hand because of you before,\u201d Jillian piped in.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSee, Sweetheart?\u00a0 <\/span>You hand it down to your little sister, but the buck stops with her.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s the youngest!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian protested.<\/span><\/p>\n

All the girls laughed, Adam and Jason looked over as if to ask what was so funny.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPoor Jillian gets the butt of all the teasing, but because she\u2019s the youngest, she doesn\u2019t get to hand it down to anyone else,\u201d Brianna told the men.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPeanut, you won\u2019t always be the youngest in the family.\u00a0 <\/span>When we have kids, you\u2019ll be able to enjoy your nieces and or nephews and teach them the things they need to know,\u201d Jason assured.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow about we get you two married first before you make your old man and mother grandparents,\u201d Jessica laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, who are you calling an old man, Grandma?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked chuckling.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou, Grandpa!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica laughed returning the banter.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou called me your stud the other night,\u201d Adam winked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThere they go again,\u201d Jillian said, rolling her eyes, laughing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Peanut, Mommy and Daddy still love each other and show it, even at their age.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s great!\u00a0 <\/span>I know Brie, and I will be the same when we\u2019re their age,\u201d Jason looked at Brianna adoringly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYUCK!\u00a0 <\/span>I like to play with boys, but I don\u2019t want to kiss them,\u201d Jillian said with a scrunched up nose.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBelieve me, Peanut, in a few years, your outlook on boys will be very different,\u201d Emily said rubbing her sister\u2019s back.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t want to kiss a boy like you kiss Trey, Emily!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian busted Emily.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Jessica looked at Emily with a surprised look on their face.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily turned a bright red in the face.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cJillian!\u00a0 <\/span>I didn\u2019t kiss Trey in an inappropriate way, and you know it!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian laughed and said, \u201cSike!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Jessica relaxed when they realized Jillian was teasing her sister.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLooks like you know how to defend yourself in the teasing department, Peanut,\u201d Jason laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian sat with a smug smile on her face and said, \u201cHey!\u00a0 <\/span>A girl\u2019s got to do what a girl\u2019s got to do!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, and almost go me in trouble, too!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily protested not finding much humor in her sister\u2019s prank.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Sweetheart, don\u2019t get your nose out of joint,\u201d Jessica said as she moved the few strands of hair which had fallen from Emily\u2019s ponytail. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSucks being the middle child sometimes…No, all the time,\u201d Emily started to pout again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome here, Princess,\u201d Adam asked putting his hand out.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat, Daddy,\u201d Emily continued to pout, not taking Adam\u2019s hand.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome here, and I\u2019ll tell you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily took her father\u2019s hand, and she came over and sat next to him. Adam put his arms around his daughter and gave her a hug.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you very much, and you know what?\u00a0 <\/span>I love you just as much as I love your brother and your sister.\u00a0 <\/span>Your Uncle Hoss used to say the same thing to Poppy about me and Uncle Joe. Being the middle child is tough, but it makes you and Uncle Hoss not any less loved.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut Daddy…\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily started to say, but Adam cut her off.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy nothing, Princess.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t treat any of you differently.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason got his fair share of punishment for teasing you when you were younger, you probably just don\u2019t remember,\u201d Adam explained.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBelieve me, Em, I remember all too well,\u201d Jason interjected.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI expected more out of Jason when you two were younger.\u00a0 <\/span>I expected him to protect you as his little sister.\u00a0 <\/span>Now I expect the same of you with Jillian.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, Daddy,\u201d Emily smiled at her hero.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI love you, Daddy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam kissed Emily on the cheek and said, \u201cI love you too, Princess.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As Emily went back to her seat, the captain of the vessel came on over the public speaker and told all the passengers they were pulling into the port as they arrived in\u00a0Nantucket and asked everyone to take their seats and to remained seated until the vessel had come to a complete stop.\u00a0 <\/span>He also explained where the luggage and bicycle carts would be placed once on the dock for claiming.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam pulled out his iPhone and called Rebecca to let her know they were almost to Nantucket. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, Lady, it\u2019s Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Just wanted to let you know we’re arriving in Nantucket.\u00a0 <\/span>Looking forward to seeing you again.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGreat, the twins are down for a nap right now, and I\u2019m finishing up lunch, so I\u2019m going to send Dave to the pier to pick everyone up.\u00a0 <\/span>I hope you don\u2019t mind,\u201d Rebecca said holding the phone with her shoulder as she was spreading mayonnaise on bread for the sandwiches she was making.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cDave\u2019s wearing a bright orange t-shirt that says, Stingray City, Cayman Islands<\/em> on it. You can\u2019t miss him.\u00a0 <\/span>He\u2019s leaving right now, he told me to tell you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, we\u2019ll see you shortly.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019ll be good to see you again, Becky,\u201d Adam said looking down, remembering how he used to feel about his dear friend.<\/span><\/p>\n

Rebecca, feeling the same, put down her knife as she held her phone and said, \u201cI\u2019m looking forward to seeing you, too, Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The two hung up their phones and Adam sat looking at his.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica could see Adam\u2019s body language had changed.\u00a0 <\/span>She put her hand on his shoulder and asked, \u201cIs everything okay, Adam?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked over at Jessica and smiled, \u201cYeah, everything\u2019s great.\u00a0 <\/span>Just looking forward to seeing Becky and Dave again.\u00a0 <\/span>We get to meet their two girls, too!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis is the doctor who helped Jason when he fell from the swing, right, Adam?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Emily and I were putting up the leftovers from a picnic we had while Jason went to go swing.\u00a0 <\/span>He was swinging very high and tried to leap out of his swing and fell, hitting his head.\u00a0 <\/span>He also broke his leg in the process,\u201d Adam recalled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis is when you were divorced, right?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna asked, not realizing they had never told Jillian.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam put his finger to his lips as if to tell Brianna not to say any more about the divorce.\u00a0 <\/span>He whispered, \u201cWe\u2019ve never told Jillian about our divorce and re-marriage.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian looked up from her book she was reading and then looked back down and started reading again.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica looked over at her, but she didn\u2019t look up to ask any questions.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica then looked at Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna, feeling sad, looked at Jason and\u00a0whispered, \u201cI\u2019m so sorry!\u00a0 <\/span>I had no idea Jillian didn\u2019t know about your parents!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason rubbed Brianna\u2019s arm and told her it was okay, she didn\u2019t know, and his parents knew she didn\u2019t say it aloud on purpose.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam winked and smiled at Brianna when she looked at him with a sad face. <\/span><\/p>\n

The ferry arrived at Nantucket, and everyone stood up to disembark.\u00a0 <\/span>The Cartwrights and Brianna headed down the dock where they saw David waiting for them.\u00a0 <\/span>When he saw Adam, he waved, Adam smiled and waved back.\u00a0 <\/span>When they got to him, Adam and Jessica shook hands with Dave and introduced Jason and Brianna to him since they were at school when he and Rebecca came to Nevada. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDave, I\u2019d like you to meet my son, Jason, and his fianc\u00e9e as of a few days ago, Brianna Nelson.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

David shook Jason\u2019s and Brianna\u2019s hands and congratulated them on their engagement and said he was happy to meet them.<\/span><\/p>\n

David helped Adam and Jason with the luggage, and everyone piled into the van for the short ride back to Dave and Rebecca\u2019s Island home.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once they arrived, Rebecca came out to welcome everyone.\u00a0 <\/span>When she saw Adam, she stopped and smiled as tears welled in her eyes at seeing her old friend again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, how are you?\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s so good to see you again!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Rebecca said as she held her arms for a hug.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam took Rebecca into her arms and held her tight.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cYou look fantastic, Beck, but when did you go from red to brown hair?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked holding her back in his arms to take a look at her new hair color.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThere are still red highlights, Mr. Cartwright,\u201d Rebecca said smiling.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cReally, though, I was at the hair salon one day, and I was telling my hairdresser about the gray hairs I was starting to see. She said we could color my hair to cover them up.\u00a0 <\/span>So, I said, well if we\u2019re going to color my hair, let\u2019s try a different color, so we did the brown with red highlights.\u00a0 <\/span>Do you like?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Rebecca asked showing off her new hairdo.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love it!\u00a0 <\/span>I think it looks fantastic!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam commented.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI agree!\u00a0 <\/span>You look fantastic, and I know about the gray hairs, they blend with my blond hair…for now,\u201d Jessica said as she came up to Adam and Rebecca.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJessica,\u201d Rebecca said as she held out her arms to welcome her dear friend\u2019s wife, \u201chow the heck have you been?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve been great.\u00a0 <\/span>Thank you again for having us to your home,\u201d Jessica said hugging Rebecca.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLong time no see, Dr. Roberts,\u201d Jason said as he walked over to Rebecca.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh my gosh, Jason?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Rebecca asked in amazement. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYep, it\u2019s me!\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m all grown up now.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGosh, what a handsome man you\u2019ve grown up to be!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Rebecca said as she hugged Jason.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDr. Roberts, I would like to introduce you to my fianc\u00e9e, Brianna Nelson, Brianna, this is Dr. Rebecca Roberts, a very dear friend of my father\u2019s and the doctor who was first on the scene when I broke my leg when I was eight.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNice to meet you, Doctor,\u201d Brianna said, shaking Rebecca\u2019s hand.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFianc\u00e9e?\u00a0 <\/span>Rebecca said looking at Jason, as she motioned Brianna for a hug.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Ma\u2019am.\u00a0 <\/span>I proposed to her a few days ago, and she said yes!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCongratulations, you two, and please, call me Rebecca or Becky.\u00a0 <\/span>Dr. Roberts is so formal,\u201d she said as she hugged both Jason and Brianna.<\/span><\/p>\n

David invited everyone into the house and onto the patio which overlooked the ocean.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat a gorgeous view you have here, Dave, Becky,\u201d Adam said as they looked out onto the beach.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDave works very hard, so we wanted to have a place where we could come and totally relax.\u00a0 <\/span>We bought this house from a couple who was building it when the husband\u2019s brother died.\u00a0 <\/span>He never got over his brother\u2019s death, and it took a toll on their marriage.\u00a0 <\/span>They ended up divorcing, and neither of them wanted the house, so to sell it quickly, they sold it for a song.\u00a0 <\/span>The realtor knew we were looking for a home here, and she called us.\u00a0 <\/span>We came out the next weekend, looked at it and put in an offer and closed a few weeks later.\u00a0 <\/span>We feel very blessed to have this place.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s a little bigger than we would have preferred, but we couldn\u2019t pass up the price or the location! Since we have all of this room, we often invite friends and colleagues of Dave’s to the Island for the weekends during the summer.\u00a0 <\/span>We always have a huge party at the end of the season as well.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, I not tired anymore,\u201d one of Rebecca’s and Dave\u2019s daughters came out on the deck rubbing her eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

Rebecca turned around and saw her daughter standing behind her.\u00a0 <\/span>She motioned for her to come to her and she timidly came and held on to Rebecca\u2019s leg tightly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAva, this is Mrs. Jessica, can you say hello to her?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ava looked up at Jessica with her big hazel eyes and put her thumb in her mouth.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy are you sucking your thumb, Ava?\u00a0 <\/span>You don\u2019t do that anymore.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re a big girl now, remember?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Rebecca said to her daughter.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ava hid her face in her mommy\u2019s leg.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica bent down to Ava\u2019s level.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Ava.\u00a0 <\/span>You have such a pretty name, and you are a beautiful girl.\u00a0 <\/span>I hear you have a sister who looks just like you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ava stared at Jessica and nodded yes to her question. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI have two girls, too!\u00a0 <\/span>Emily and Jillian.\u00a0 <\/span>Do you want to meet them?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ava nodded in agreement.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica motioned for her two daughters to come over and she introduced them to Ava.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ava took to Jillian very quickly. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you want to play with my Barbies?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Ava asked Jillian.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou have Barbies?\u00a0 <\/span>I love Barbies!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian said with excitement.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ava took Jillian by the hand and led her to her room.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica and Rebecca smiled, and Rebecca said she needed to go finish putting the final touches on lunch.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica, Emily, and Brianna offered to come and help her get things put out for everyone while Dave, Adam, and Jason talked about the Red Sox vs. Colorado Rockies, Patriots vs. Forty-Niners, and other sports. <\/span><\/p>\n

Once lunch was ready, Rebecca went to go get Ava and Jillian so they could come and eat.\u00a0 <\/span>When she came to Ava\u2019s room, she saw Eva was also awake and found her playing with her and Ava\u2019s new friend, Jillian.\u00a0 <\/span>She went to get Jessica so she could come and see how well she was getting along with her two girls. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAren\u2019t they just too cute?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Rebecca whispered as they watched the three girls playing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re fun, Jillie!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Eva said as she was helping her get her Barbie dressed. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGirls, are you ready to come eat lunch?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Rebecca asked her two girls and Jillian.<\/span><\/p>\n

All the girls looked up.\u00a0 <\/span>Eva and Jillian smiled at their two mommies; Ava got shy again when she saw Jessica with her Rebecca.<\/span><\/p>\n

The girls got up and followed Jessica and Rebecca back into the kitchen where she saw Brianna and Emily had everything out on the buffet, and the men were already digging into the afternoon\u2019s culinary delights.<\/span><\/p>\n

Eva was a social butterfly with all the Cartwrights and Brianna while Ava stuck close to her mommy and daddy. <\/span><\/p>\n

After lunch was consumed and the leftovers put away, Adam and Jason gathered the luggage from David and Rebecca\u2019s van and brought them to the rooms where they would be staying which Rebecca had pointed out during her tour of the house to Jessica. <\/span><\/p>\n

As Jessica was putting away her and Adam\u2019s clothes, Jillian came in and asked if she could talk to Jessica.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure, Baby girl, what\u2019s on your mind?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked as she was hanging up a sundress she had brought to wear at some point on her vacation.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, are you and Daddy getting a divorce?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian asked with tears in her eyes and a shaky voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

The odd question stopped Jessica, and she immediately came to where Jillian was standing.\u00a0 <\/span>She bent down to her level and placed both hands on each of Jillian\u2019s arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJillian?\u00a0 <\/span>What would ever give you the idea Daddy and I were getting divorced?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily said you were divorced when Dr. Becca and Dr. Dave came to our house, and Brie said it today.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBaby girl, do you know what divorce is?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica continued to quiz her youngest child.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian nodded her head and replied, \u201cDoug at school said his mommy and daddy got divorced. He told me they had a fight and one day, his daddy left the house and didn\u2019t come back.\u00a0 <\/span>Doug said it made his mommy sad, and she cried every day.\u00a0 <\/span>Is Daddy going to leave our house and not come back, Mommy?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Tears started raining down her face.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica hugged her daughter tightly and assured her daddy was not leaving and not come back.\u00a0 <\/span>She asked her to sit on the bed, and she would be right back; Jessica felt she needed to include Adam in on the conversation.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica went back onto the patio where Adam, Jason, Brianna, and Rebecca were talking; Emily had gone to her room to call Trey, whom she had not spoken to in over a week, and she missed him very much.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I need you to come to our room for a few minutes.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian\u2019s in there, and she\u2019s upset.\u00a0 <\/span>I need you to talk with her.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sorry everyone, it won\u2019t take us long.\u00a0 <\/span>Please excuse us.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam immediately got up and came with Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>On the way back to their room, she filled Adam in on why Jillian was so upset.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSweetpea?\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy tells me you think I might leave you, Mommy, and Emily?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked with a gentle voice as he went and sat on the bed next to where she was sitting.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUh huh,\u201d was her reply.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cDoug\u2019s daddy left and didn\u2019t come back, and his mommy is very sad.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJillian, why would you think I\u2019m leaving and not coming back?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked further.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBecause Emily said you and mommy divorced and so did Brie!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian began to cry again.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam outstretched his arms and had Jillian come sit in his lap and he held her close.\u00a0 <\/span>He allowed her to cry and continued to console her until she was able to calm down.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam looked at Jessica with a concerned look.\u00a0 <\/span>Once her crying quieted down, Adam continued to hold her in his arms, and Jessica held her hands as Adam began to speak.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSweetpea, Mommy and Daddy are married, and we plan to stay married.\u00a0 <\/span>Before you were born, Mommy and I were divorced.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam!\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked at Jessica and mouthed, \u2018It\u2019s okay.\u00a0 <\/span>She needs to know.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica continued to hold Jillian\u2019s hands and watched her body language and nodded for Adam to continue.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBefore you were born, and we just had Jason and Emily, Mommy and Daddy didn\u2019t get along to well.\u00a0 <\/span>Daddy was working for Poppy.\u00a0 <\/span>I worked long hours, but I came home around the same time I come home now, and sometimes earlier; I didn\u2019t work on the weekends much either.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid Jason cry a lot?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, it wasn\u2019t that he cried a lot, he was a good baby, actually.\u00a0 <\/span>I was young, Daddy was young, and I needed Daddy home to help me with Jason, but he worked all the time, and we hardly ever saw him, and it made Mommy very sad,\u201d Jessica interjected.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWas Jason sad, too?\u201d Jillian was curious.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica and Adam chuckled at the innocent question their daughter asked about her older brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Baby Girl, Jason was just a baby, so he wasn\u2019t aware Daddy wasn’t home very much.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam continued to explain to Jillian what ended their marriage the first time.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy got pregnant again, and we were both so happy, but one day Mommy tripped over one of Jason\u2019s toys, and she fell.\u00a0 <\/span>At first, it seemed as if she was okay, but a few days later, she called me at work crying because her tummy was hurting very badly.\u00a0 <\/span>I came home, and took her to the hospital.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLike when I cut my hand?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian was trying to understand.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica nodded her head as she stroked Jillian\u2019s hands.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy\u2019s fall had hurt the baby, and he didn\u2019t survive.\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy and I were so sad, but because the baby was growing inside her as you grew inside her, she felt the loss much more.\u00a0 <\/span>It didn\u2019t mean I loved the baby any less, just like I don\u2019t love you any less than Mommy does, but it affected Mommy differently.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWas it a brother or a sister?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian\u2019s tears dripped down her face again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe don\u2019t know, Baby Girl.\u00a0 <\/span>The baby was still so small, we don\u2019t know if it was a boy or girl,\u201d Jessica said with sadness in her voice, recalling the miscarriage from many years before.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam continued the journey to his and Jessica\u2019s eventual divorce and remarriage.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI wanted to have another baby, but Mommy was so sad at the loss of the other baby.\u00a0 <\/span>She felt like it was too soon for her and having another baby would be like trying to replace the one we lost.\u00a0 <\/span>I understood why Mommy felt the way she did, but I also felt we needed to move forward.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica took up the story at this point while Adam sat with his chin on Jillian\u2019s head.\u00a0 <\/span>Sadness filled his face as he recalled the sad time in his and Jessica\u2019s lives and how their selfishness, namely his selfishness affected those he loved the most.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe loss of the baby was very hard for Daddy and me.\u00a0 <\/span>I just wasn\u2019t ready to have a baby again yet.\u00a0 <\/span>As Daddy and I grew apart, Daddy started spending more time at the office.\u00a0 <\/span>I still loved him, but I didn\u2019t understand how my depression over losing the baby was affecting him, too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica\u2019s eyes filled with tears as she recalled how splintered her marriage was when it was just the three of them.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam could see how it was affecting Jessica, so he picked up the story again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOur marriage was practically over when Mommy got pregnant with Emily.\u00a0 <\/span>We were both happy and things started to look up when Emily was born.\u00a0 <\/span>Our love grew deep for each other again, and we were extremely happy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI bet Emily cried a lot,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian accused out loud.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily was a bit needier that Jason was.\u00a0 <\/span>It wasn\u2019t she cried because she wanted attention, she was colicky.\u00a0 <\/span>When I nursed her, my milk didn\u2019t agree with her tummy.\u00a0 <\/span>It took us awhile to realize this was the problem, so I eventually had to change to soy formula milk, and she was better.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s Emily,\u201d Jillian sighed, \u201calways the drama queen.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Jessica laughed at their daughter\u2019s portrait of her older sister.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEverything was going good, and then Poppy got sick and could no longer work.\u00a0 <\/span>I had to take over as CEO, and I was working long hours and many weekends.\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy was supportive at first, but it was hard on her.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason was two, and Emily was practically a newborn.\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy got very frustrated with me and threatened a divorce then.\u00a0 <\/span>Poppy did what he could to help, Uncle Hoss and Uncle Joe helped, too.\u00a0 <\/span>Everything seemed to be getting better again when we had a crisis at work, and if I couldn\u2019t fix it, it could have been the end of our company.\u00a0 <\/span>I had to work long hours and weekends again to fix what had been broken.\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy had enough, and she asked me to leave.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy, Mommy?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian started to cry.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Baby Girl.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m so sorry.\u00a0 <\/span>I was young, I had two babies, and I allowed my anger to get the better of me,\u201d Jessica\u2019s voice was sad.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy filed for divorce, and I moved to our home on the Ponderosa.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason and Emily would come and stay with me every other weekend, and lived with Mommy the rest of the time.\u00a0 <\/span>It was very hard for me because I never stopped loving Mommy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDeep in my heart, Baby Girl, I never stopped loving Daddy, but my anger toward him clouded my love, which I regret deeply now.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAfter dropping Jason and Emily off back at our home in Carson City, I went to the office one night.\u00a0 <\/span>I had been working late, and I was on my way home, I was involved in a severe car wreck, and I almost died.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian cried.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m okay, Sweetpea.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m okay,\u201d Adam assured his youngest child.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen I found out Daddy was in the ER hurt very badly, I rushed to his side.\u00a0 <\/span>I never left his side the whole time he was in the intensive care unit.\u00a0 <\/span>I was so scared he would die.\u00a0 <\/span>I know it took this tragedy to shake me up, but that\u2019s when I realized I still loved Daddy, and I wanted to try and put our marriage back together again, but it was too late for me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHuh?\u201d Jillian was confused.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI had started seeing another woman,\u201d Adam cleared up the confusion, but didn\u2019t let on it was Rebecca to whom he was seeing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid you love her, Daddy?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian questioned. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI loved her very much, Sweetpea, but it wasn’t meant to be.\u00a0 <\/span>She got an amazing job she could not turn down, and she moved away.\u00a0 <\/span>Before she left, she made one final request:\u00a0 <\/span>She asked me to be good to your mother.\u00a0 <\/span>I didn\u2019t understand what she meant at first.\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy and I were getting along better than we had in the two years we had been divorced.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason was eight, Emily was almost five.\u00a0 <\/span>On Emily\u2019s birthday, Mommy and I started to fall in love again.\u00a0 <\/span>We were happy and spending quite a bit of time together, but we thought we should take it slowly, but in both of our hearts, we wanted to be together again as a family.\u00a0 <\/span>On Christmas Eve, after Jason and Emily had gone to bed, she told me she was pregnant with you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid you ask for me from Santa, Mommy?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian smiled as she asked the innocent question.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Baby Girl, I didn\u2019t.\u00a0 <\/span>You were a beautiful gift from God,\u201d Jessica said as she kissed her on the side of her head.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWhen I found out I was pregnant with you, I was so happy but scared at the same time.\u00a0 <\/span>You see, I didn\u2019t know Daddy was going to ask me to marry him again, and I was sad at the thought of bringing you into the world where Daddy and I would not be there to raise you together.\u00a0 <\/span>I saw the toll it was taking on Jason and Emily, and now, I thought we were going to inflict the same pain on you.\u00a0 <\/span>Daddy loved me, and I loved him.\u00a0 <\/span>When he asked me to marry him again, it was the best gift from Santa I asked for.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSanta, Mommy?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian looked confused.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes!\u00a0 <\/span>Daddy told me when he was coming back to our home on the Ponderosa from Poppy\u2019s house on Christmas Eve, he ran into Santa, and he gave him my wedding ring to give me,\u201d Jessica explained.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian looked at Adam with amazement, \u201cDaddy! You saw Santa Claus?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI sure did, Sweetpea.\u00a0 <\/span>When he gave me a ring for Mommy, of course, I had to ask her to marry me again!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo, on New Year\u2019s Eve, Mommy and I got married again.\u00a0 <\/span>While we\u2019ve had arguments over the last eleven years, and there have been times when Mommy and I have been furious at one another, our love for each other and our love for you, your brother and sister has always been stronger than any argument.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m hoping nothing will ever break us apart again.\u00a0 <\/span>We never want to put you through what we put Jason and Emily through and we certainly never want to put them through what we put them through then, again.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian hugged Adam and then hugged Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>She felt better her parents were not getting a divorce.\u00a0 <\/span>She had never known the pain of what Jason and Emily felt, and they hoped never would.\u00a0 <\/span>The secret was now out, and she understood her family was intact, and this gave Adam and Jessica great peace.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the day drew into the evening, after dinner, Rebecca and David put their little ones to bed. The day had been filled with meeting new people and having a new friend in Jillian with whom they could play Barbies. <\/span><\/p>\n

Everyone was on the patio enjoying the summer evening with the gentle sounds of low tide in the background, talking about the upcoming weekend, new week and what everyone would like to do.\u00a0 <\/span>Rebecca felt it was the right time to spring the surprise on the girls.\u00a0 <\/span>“David is taking the guys golfing, so I would like to take us girls on a day excursion to Martha\u2019s Vineyard!”\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Everyone was excited about the trip, and Adam again pulled his wallet from his back pocket and slung it over on Jessica\u2019s lap.\u00a0 <\/span>Everyone erupted in laughter with Adam\u2019s attempt at humor.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica decided she would give Adam a taste of his own humor, so she opened his wallet, took out all of his cash and credit cards, placed them in her pocket and slung his empty wallet back at him.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason, David, and Rebecca all had a great laugh over Jessica\u2019s retaliation. <\/span><\/p>\n

Through his laughter, Adam replied, \u201cI guess I deserved that one, didn\u2019t I?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, you certainly did, Buster!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said laughing.<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna placed her head on Jason\u2019s shoulder and said she was getting tired and was going to bed.\u00a0 <\/span>She excused herself, kissed Jason goodnight, and headed to the room she was to share with Jason during their stay.\u00a0 <\/span>She saw Jillian dozing on the chaise lounge so she helped her up to get ready for bed.\u00a0 <\/span>Feeling tired herself, Emily offered to take Jillian and help her change for bed so Brianna could go herself.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason decided he should turn in for the night too, and wished everyone a good evening.<\/span><\/p>\n

Around midnight, Jessica was finding it increasingly difficult to keep her eyes open, so she decided to call it a night herself.\u00a0 <\/span>She gave Adam a kiss goodnight and wished Rebecca and David a good night. <\/span><\/p>\n

As Jessica headed into the house, Adam looked back at her and said, \u201cDid you forget something?\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica turned around and looked at him with a befuddled look.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam held out his wallet and said cash, credit cards?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica replied, \u201cOh yes!\u00a0 <\/span>Now I remember…Nope, didn\u2019t forget a thing, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Good night!\u201d and she turned and continued on to the bedroom she was sharing with him during their stay.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFriend, I\u2019m afraid you opened the door, and she walked right on in,\u201d David said with laughter.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy wife is a natural comedienne,\u201d Adam laughed proudly.<\/span><\/p>\n

David yawned and said, \u201cIt\u2019s been a rough week, and I\u2019m worn out.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll give you two some time to catch up, just the two of you.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll say goodnight now.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stood up, shook David\u2019s hand and wished him a good night.\u00a0 <\/span>David bent down and gave Rebecca a good night kiss and told her to stay up as long as she desired.\u00a0 <\/span>She smiled at him and said, \u201cThank you, Honey.\u00a0 <\/span>I love you, goodnight.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

After David headed up the stairs and disappeared into his and Rebecca\u2019s bedroom, Adam turned to Rebecca and smiled. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, here we are again.\u00a0 <\/span>My how times and things have changed, huh?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s hard to believe sometimes.\u00a0 <\/span>I still remember the first day I laid eyes on you. Remember?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo I ever.\u00a0 <\/span>I only wished they could have been under better circumstances,\u201d Adam said remembering back to Jason\u2019s accident.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDespite the rough start, I think we made lemonade out of lemons, don\u2019t you think?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Rebecca smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, we did…You know?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam said, looking over at Rebecca\u2019s face under the moonlight, \u201cI did love\u00a0you, and it was very hard to say goodbye.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I loved you, too.\u00a0 <\/span>I knew you loved me, but I knew your heart was still with Jessica, and while you loved me, you were in love with Jessica.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow did you know, Becky?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked leaning forward in his chair, eager to hear how Rebecca knew what he felt when he didn\u2019t see it himself.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen I was in college, studying premed, I minored in psychology.\u00a0 <\/span>We studied body language, mannerisms, and interactions between two people.\u00a0 <\/span>I knew you loved me; I had no doubt there.\u00a0 <\/span>But when I looked in your eyes, the window to your soul, something was missing between us.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was devoted to Jason and Emily.\u00a0 <\/span>Did I still love Jessica then?\u00a0 <\/span>Yes, of course, she was the mother of my two children.\u00a0 <\/span>I didn\u2019t feel I was in love with her anymore, though.\u00a0 <\/span>She had done so many things to me, to you, which caused my heart to harden for her.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s what you told yourself, Adam, but your heart, the one you said was hardened, told a different story.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean?\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t understand.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Rebecca leaned forward to get closer to Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>She wanted him to know what she saw in him where Jessica and his children were concerned. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf it had been your choice, you would have never gotten a divorce, correct?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s true, but over time, I felt it was the best thing after all.\u00a0 <\/span>I think Jess and I staying married with her feeling the animosity she had toward me would’ve been more detrimental to the kids than it was with us living apart.\u00a0 <\/span>We tried really hard to never argue in front of the kids.\u00a0 <\/span>We knew they loved us both, and we didn\u2019t want them to feel caught in the middle.\u00a0 <\/span>We didn\u2019t always succeed, but we tried our best.\u00a0 <\/span>I think, for the most part, they\u2019ve grown up without too much permanent damage.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think you\u2019re right.\u00a0 <\/span>You can see the beautiful relationship between Jason and his fianc\u00e9e.\u00a0 <\/span>It is a testament to the love you and Jessica not only have for each other but for him as well.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, but what about us, Becky?\u00a0 <\/span>I loved you and in time, I knew I wanted to marry you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut that\u2019s just it, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>If you had truly loved me to the point of wanting to marry me, you would’ve never let me go.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u00a0 <\/span>That\u2019s crazy,\u201d Adam dismissed Rebecca\u2019s accusation. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, really.\u00a0 <\/span>When I came over that night\u00a0to tell you about the job, I wanted nothing more than for you to beg me to stay.\u00a0 <\/span>Deep in my heart, I knew you wouldn\u2019t, but I held out a sliver of hope you would.\u00a0 <\/span>You told me I had to take it; it was a once in a lifetime opportunity.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd it was!\u00a0 <\/span>How could I hold you back?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam argued.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s just it, Adam!\u00a0 <\/span>You let me go!\u00a0 <\/span>You wanted me to go.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was devastated the night you came to my house and said you were leaving in just a few days, and you wanted to end everything immediately.\u00a0 <\/span>I was willing to try a long distance relationship, but you were the one who didn\u2019t want to, Becky.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Rebecca laughed with a hint of sorrow in her voice, \u201cIt wasn\u2019t I didn\u2019t want to try, I knew it wouldn\u2019t work!\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica wanted you back, and your heart never stopped loving her.\u00a0 <\/span>With me gone to Boston, our jobs demanding as they were, it was bound to happen anyway.\u00a0 <\/span>Why draw out the inevitable?\u00a0 <\/span>Believe me, I thought long and hard about it.\u00a0 <\/span>I agonized over it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI never knew!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam\u2019s voice was urgent.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEverything played out the way it was meant to.\u00a0 <\/span>My heart wanted you to be happy; even if it meant my heart would be broken for an indefinite amount of time.\u00a0 <\/span>I knew your happiness was with Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>That\u2019s why I said what I said that night, do you remember what I said to you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow can I forget?\u00a0 <\/span>Be good to Jessica<\/em>, you told me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd when you opened your heart back up to her, the love came pouring out again.\u00a0 <\/span>Before you two knew it, you had produced a product of that love; Jillian.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe wood didn\u2019t get cold under your fire either if I recall,\u201d Adam retorted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, it didn\u2019t.\u00a0 <\/span>I moved to Boston and met Dave.\u00a0 <\/span>We hit it off and had instant chemistry.\u00a0 <\/span>I knew from the moment I met him I would marry him one day; just like you told me you felt when you first met Jessica at Harvard.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI won\u2019t deny I felt a pang of sadness when I got your letter, Rebecca.\u00a0 <\/span>Even though I was in love with Jess again and we had Jillian on the way, it was still like a knife in my heart when I read your letter…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAs was the knife in my heart, too, when Jessica picked up your phone, and she said, \u2018this is his wife, Jessica.\u2019\u00a0 <\/span>I felt the same pain even though I was happily married with two beautiful girls.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd here we are, ten plus years later.\u00a0 <\/span>We are both happily married, spending a summer vacation with each other\u2019s families, and we both approve of the other\u2019s spouse.\u00a0 <\/span>Who would have ever thought, huh?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was how it was meant to be, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Oh, I still love you with all my heart, but it\u2019s a different kind of love now.\u00a0 <\/span>A love of mutual respect, admiration, and friendship.\u00a0 <\/span>I know Dave loves you and Jessica, too!\u00a0 <\/span>He tells me all the time how thankful he is to you for letting me go,\u201d Rebecca laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI couldn\u2019t imagine you with a better man.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re both so blessed to have each other.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m thankful you found each other.\u00a0 <\/span>I see the love between the two of you,\u201d Adam said as he reached out and grabbed Rebecca\u2019s hands.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI see the same love when you look at Jessica, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>How could I not like her?\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s a great woman and an amazing mother.\u00a0 <\/span>I always knew that about her, even in the days when she went out of her way to keep me from you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s one of the things I love about you the most.\u00a0 <\/span>You see the darkest in people and find the light.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I knew she was special because if she wasn\u2019t, you would have never fallen in love with her and you certainly would not have married or had children with her.\u00a0 <\/span>I knew it was just a matter of time.\u00a0 <\/span>We just needed to get to know each other, that\u2019s all.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s a good woman, Rebecca.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re right, she\u2019s a genuinely amazing mother, too.\u00a0 <\/span>Our kids are so blessed to have her as their mother.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Rebecca looked at her watch and the hour was approaching 2:00 AM. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s time we get to bed, it\u2019s very late.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m really glad we finally got to have this time together, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>This talk was ten plus years in the making.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stood up and put out his hand for Rebecca to take.\u00a0 <\/span>She put her hand in his and she stood up.\u00a0 <\/span>She and Adam walked into the house arm and arm.\u00a0 <\/span>When they reached the foot of the stairs, she turned to Adam and smiled. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m so glad you came into my life when you did.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m so proud to call you friend.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam took Rebecca into his arms and smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>He looked her in the eyes and said, \u201cI\u2019m the lucky one,\u201d he kissed her on the forehead and said, \u201cGoodnight, Friend.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Rebecca rubbed her cheek against Adam\u2019s well-manicured beard and said, \u201cGoodnight, sleep well, my friend,\u201d and she turned and walked up the stairs.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam stayed and watched her ascend the staircase.\u00a0 <\/span>When she reached the top of the stairs and opened the door to her bedroom, she turned and smiled one more time at Adam and then walked into her bedroom and quietly closed the door behind her. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stood at the staircase for a moment and smiled as he thought back on the conversation they just had.\u00a0 <\/span>He looked up to Heaven and quietly said, \u201cThank you,\u201d and walked down the hall into the bedroom he shared with Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>As he walked in, the moonlight showed through the shutters which were cracked open.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica was sound asleep with Adam\u2019s pillow curled up next to her.\u00a0 <\/span>He realized how lucky he truly was, and he had Rebecca to thank for opening his eyes to the love he had shut off so many years before. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stripped down to his boxers, gently crawled into bed, and softly lifted Jessica\u2019s arm from the pillow.\u00a0 <\/span>She stirred but did not wake up.\u00a0 <\/span>He crawled under the covers and laid there watching Jessica sleep quietly.\u00a0 <\/span>Exhaustion from the day finally overtook Adam and he, too, closed his eyes and fell asleep.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

As the sun broke on a new day at Nantucket, everyone woke early to get dressed for their day\u2019s activities.\u00a0 <\/span>The women were taking a late morning ferry over to Martha\u2019s Vineyard while the guys were headed to the country club for a round of golf and lunch.\u00a0 <\/span>It was Jessica\u2019s birthday, and because she had told Adam she didn\u2019t want any celebration, he took her at her word and didn\u2019t plan anything special for the day.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam woke up first and found his wife sleeping soundly with her back to him.\u00a0 <\/span>He snuggled up next to her and kissed her bare shoulder.\u00a0 <\/span>He moved his hand around her waist and slipped it inside her silk boxers where he found no panties to impede his way with her. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s fondling between her legs and gentle kisses along the nape of her neck and shoulder quickly woke Jessica from her slumber.\u00a0 <\/span>She turned over on her back where Adam smiled down at his wife and wished her a happy birthday.\u00a0 <\/span>She smiled and kissed him good morning as Adam slipped his fingers up inside Jessica. She quickly stopped his hand and pulled it away.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot now, Adam, not here!\u00a0 <\/span>In your ex-girlfriend\u2019s home?\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s not appropriate.\u00a0 <\/span>What are you thinking?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis was doing my thinking for me,\u201d he said as he placed her hand to his groin.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cStop it! will you?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica protested.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI thought it would be a great way to start your birthday today, Babe; I guess I was wrong,\u201d Adam said dejectedly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat if the girls come in or what if Rebecca were to walk by and hear us in here?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica continued the argument.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThey would know we still love each other and show our love to each other in the most intimate way, but you\u2019ve pretty much killed the moment,\u201d Adam said as he rolled over and got out of bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhatever, Adam, we need to get dressed anyway,\u201d Jessica said pushing aside Adam\u2019s attempts to show his wife how much he still loved her.<\/span><\/p>\n

The two showered independently and got dressed with not much conversation. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian knocked on the bedroom door just as Adam was buttoning his golf pants.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica was still in her robe and straightening up the sheets to make the bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning, Sweetpea, did you sleep well?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked as he invited his youngest child into the room he shared with his wife.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, I did, Daddy.\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy, I can\u2019t find my purple shorts.\u00a0 <\/span>I want to wear them today.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica stopped making the bed and thought for a moment.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI wonder if I accidentally put them in Emily\u2019s suitcase.\u00a0 <\/span>Come on, baby girl, let\u2019s go look.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian and Jessica walked out of the room while Adam put on his shirt and shoes.\u00a0 <\/span>He was finishing up the bed when Jessica came back in.\u00a0 <\/span>She curtly told Adam she would finish making the bed if he wanted to go on out and join the others on the patio.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam took the cue from his wife and left without saying another word.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning, everyone,\u201d Adam said as he joined Brianna, Jason, Rebecca, and David on the patio.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam shook David\u2019s and Jason\u2019s hands, while he bent down and gave a light kiss to Brianna and Rebecca on their cheek. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, would you like some coffee?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Rebecca asked pointing to the carafe sitting on the cart next to her chase lounge.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou read my mind,\u201d he smiled as he headed over to the pot.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSit down, make yourself comfortable, I\u2019ll be happy to pour you a cup.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam sat down and thanked Rebecca for the offer.\u00a0 <\/span>After he had sat, Dave asked how everyone slept.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGreat!\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica is finishing getting dressed, and the girls should be out shortly.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian had a mystery as to where her purple shorts were, but they were found, and I\u2019m sure they\u2019ll be out here in no time.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam didn\u2019t let on he and Jessica had rolled out of bed at odds with each other.\u00a0 <\/span>He hoped the tension between them would not be evident when she came out to the patio.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason and Brianna were telling us about their studies, how they met, and what their plans for the future.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s amazing to see how much the little boy I first met on the playground when he was eight has grown into such a good-looking young man,\u201d Rebecca filled Adam in on the conversation which had taken place between her, David, Jason, and Brianna before his arrival.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI had a great role model,\u201d Jason smiled at his father.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m the lucky one here,\u201d Brianna spoke up, putting her arm through Jason\u2019s as they snuggled closer to each other on the love seat.\u00a0 <\/span>The two stared lovingly into each other\u2019s eyes.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam smiled at his son and future daughter-in-law and thought back to the many times he and Jessica stared at each other in the same fashion.\u00a0 <\/span>He kept quiet, but Rebecca could see something was weighing heavily on his mind. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhere are your girls, Rebecca?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked as he looked around and noticed they were not around.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019re spending the day and night with some dear friends of ours who also have a home here on the Island.\u00a0 <\/span>Tom and Jana have two twin girls the same age as ours and they offered to keep the girls today since they knew we were headed to Martha\u2019s Vineyard and you boys were going to play golf.\u00a0 <\/span>Jana called me up a few days ago and asked if the girls would be happier staying with them for the day.\u00a0 <\/span>They could swim and play with their girls.\u00a0 <\/span>The last time Jana and I took both of our girls to the Vineyard when they got tired, they got very cranky, so it\u2019s best they stay back today.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJust wait until you two have a couple of kiddos.\u00a0 <\/span>When they get tired,\u201d David laughed as he was warning Jason and Brianna.\u00a0 <\/span>The young couple smiled, and Brianna laid her head on Jason\u2019s shoulder as they both pondered being parents. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI remember when Em and I were young.\u00a0 <\/span>When she got tired, she would get so cranky and start crying.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian would just crawl up in a ball somewhere and fall asleep, Emily, on the other hand, would whine and cry the whole time.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was just to annoy you, Jason,\u201d Emily said in a snarky tone as she, Jillian, and Jessica entered the covered patio.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>David stood and offered Jessica his seat and gave her a gentle peck on her cheek.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, David,\u201d she said as she sat down and greeted everyone.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam got up and offered his seat to Emily and Jillian made her way to her brother\u2019s lap. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNow that everyone is here, I wanted to let you know Rebecca, and I are going to take you all to breakfast at the Fog Island Cafe.\u00a0 <\/span>Our friends, Mark and Ann Dawson, own the restaurant, and they make an extraordinary breakfast.\u00a0 <\/span>Would you girls like some coffee or tea before we go to breakfast?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I\u2019m fine,\u201d Jessica commented as she looked at her two girls and they both nodded in agreement with their mother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I guess we should have all pile in the car together, then.\u00a0 <\/span>Some of the smaller people might have to sit on laps, but it\u2019s just a short ride over to the restaurant.\u00a0 <\/span>The boys can drop us at the pier for our ferry after breakfast,\u201d Rebecca commented.<\/span><\/p>\n

After a hearty breakfast, the girls were dropped off at the pier for their short wait as the ferry from Martha\u2019s Vineyard arrived, and all the of the passengers got off, and the crew prepared the vessel for the next trip over to the Vineyard.<\/span><\/p>\n

After everyone had boarded the ferry, Emily, Jillian, and Brianna sat at a table where they could play a game of Hearts while Rebecca and Jessica sat in two seats across from the table. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you and Adam having a good time?\u00a0 <\/span>I hope you are enjoying your vacation so far,\u201d Rebecca asked.\u00a0 <\/span>She could see that Jessica\u2019s demeanor was a bit different this day than the previous.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica smiled and said, \u201cYes, we\u2019re having a great time, Rebecca.\u00a0 <\/span>I want to thank you and Dave again for inviting us to come and stay with you.\u00a0 <\/span>I know the girls, and I was quite excited about the trip over to the Vineyard today!\u00a0 <\/span>I spent many summers there with my parents when I was a kid and when Adam and I were at Harvard, we would sometimes return to school early and enjoy Labor Day weekend with friends who\u2019s parents owned homes there.\u00a0 <\/span>I haven\u2019t been there in years; I\u2019m looking forward to returning!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen Dave and I were looking for a summer home to buy, we considered Martha\u2019s Vineyard as one of the places to look at, but we decided Nantucket was more suited to a lifestyle we wanted to while away from work.\u00a0 <\/span>When Dave can work from home, which is not too often, we try to come here and relax.\u00a0 <\/span>The girls love Nantucket so at times, I\u2019ll bring them over for a week or two during the summer months.\u00a0 <\/span>Dave joins us on the weekends and will take the ferry back on Monday morning.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Rebecca could tell Jessica still seemed to be a little distant but didn\u2019t want to ask why but hoped it wasn\u2019t because she had once shared a relationship with Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Jessica continued to look out on the waves of the Atlantic Ocean, she sighed deeply.\u00a0 <\/span>She looked over at Rebecca, who smiled but didn\u2019t say anything and turned back to the rolling white caps of the sea.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica turned her attention back to Rebecca and again thanked her for opening her home to her family.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ve come full circle.\u00a0 <\/span>Who would\u2019ve ever thought we would be sitting here today after how I treated you when you helped my son after he broke his leg and then…\u201d Jessica said, shaking her head downward in humiliation, \u201cHow I treated you when Adam was in the ICU. \u00a0 <\/span>All you wanted to do was see him and know how he was.\u00a0 <\/span>I was so awful to you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThose were difficult times for you, Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t hold any of it against you.\u00a0 <\/span>It was what you felt you had to do.\u201d Rebecca softly said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was out of my mind with worry back then.\u00a0 <\/span>I still loved Adam, although I had a sick way of showing it at times, huh?\u00a0 <\/span>I didn\u2019t know if he was going to live or die when he came into the ER that night after his accident.\u00a0 <\/span>I wasn\u2019t thinking straight at all.\u00a0 <\/span>I only could think about my children and how I would tell them their father wasn\u2019t with us anymore and how I would never be able to make up all the stupid, mean things I had said and done to him,\u201d Jessica bowed her head again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI won\u2019t lie and say I wasn\u2019t angry with you or how I wanted to let you know how inconsiderate you were of Adam\u2019s feelings for me, but I knew it would only fuel the flames of your perceived hatred toward me, so I just let it go.\u00a0 <\/span>You were hurting enough.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Rebecca quietly replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica looked over at the girls smiling and having fun playing different card games, passing the travel time to Martha\u2019s Vineyard.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou know, Jillian came to me yesterday and asked if Adam and I were getting a divorce.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ve tried to shield her from what happened between us before she was born, but I guess it was inevitable she would one day find out we divorced for a time.\u00a0 <\/span>We elected not to tell her about your\u2019s and Adam\u2019s involvement with each other.\u00a0 <\/span>We felt knowing her parents were not always together would be enough for her to handle at her age.\u00a0 <\/span>If it should ever become a question on down the line when she\u2019s older, we can tell her then, but for now, all she knows is Adam and I divorced for a time, but we are married now and have no plans to divorce again,\u201d Jessica professed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry she had fears you might be divorcing.\u00a0 <\/span>What caused her to feel this insecurity?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA few times it was brought up in conversation when she was around; the other party didn\u2019t know we had never explained to her about our lives before she was born.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI see,\u201d replied Rebecca. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI hope Dave and I never put our girls through such an emotional time. I know it was hard on Adam; watching Emily and Jason have to live between two homes when they were younger. They seem to have come through it just fine, though.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI pray every day my children won\u2019t have lasting effects of our selfishness.\u00a0 <\/span>I know I blamed our breakup on Adam, but I had a hand in it as well.\u00a0 <\/span>I could have been a more supportive wife and try to understand what all he was going through. I guess I just wanted to have my cake and eat it, too.\u00a0 <\/span>I was young, immature.\u00a0 <\/span>I was so hard on him.\u00a0 <\/span>I loved him so much, and he disappointed me.\u00a0 <\/span>I wanted him to make the kids and me his priority.\u00a0 <\/span>It wasn\u2019t until I filed for divorce when he woke up.\u00a0 <\/span>It was too late by then.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIn the first few years of our marriage, Dave and I had our share of priority struggles.\u00a0 <\/span>We didn\u2019t have the girls yet.\u00a0 <\/span>We were both still working at the hospital.\u00a0 <\/span>Even though we worked in the same hospital, we rarely saw each other.\u00a0 <\/span>If we could get away for lunch, getting away at the same time proved to be the largest hurdle.\u00a0 <\/span>We found ourselves drifting apart.\u00a0 <\/span>We still loved each other, but finding the time for ourselves was always what seemed to be the elusive butterfly.\u00a0 <\/span>We considered separation.\u00a0 <\/span>We thought maybe we had jumped into marriage without actually considering our careers; our calling to help sick children.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI had no idea.\u00a0 <\/span>Does Adam know any of this?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, he doesn\u2019t.\u00a0 <\/span>Last night when we talked after everyone went to bed, we just reminisced about the past, how the decisions we both made affected not only our lives for the better, but it also changed the lives of you, your children, Dave, and eventually our girls.\u00a0 <\/span>I didn\u2019t see the need to tell him about how my marriage almost failed and our girls almost never came to be.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Rebecca.\u00a0 <\/span>I do understand your struggle.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Rebecca smiled at Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cThanks.\u00a0 <\/span>We finally one night sat and talked it over.\u00a0 <\/span>We were both very candid on how we had failed one another.\u00a0 <\/span>It was hard to express the failures we felt as well as to hear how we had failed the one we claimed to love.\u00a0 <\/span>It was a turning point in our relationship.\u00a0 <\/span>I wanted to have children, but I felt it was not a good time to start bringing children into the world.\u00a0 <\/span>I didn\u2019t want our kids to end up like Jason and Emily; with parents living apart and having to spend time going between them.\u00a0 <\/span>I know you two tried to stay supportive of each other\u2019s roles in their lives, but Adam told me of a few times when you both failed, and the kids got caught in the middle of your battles between each other.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not proud of those moments.\u00a0 <\/span>I know it scared Jason and Emily terribly.\u00a0 <\/span>Even now, when we have arguments, we try to shield the kids, but it\u2019s hard because we all live under the same roof.\u00a0 <\/span>We try to keep our arguments in the bedroom.\u00a0 <\/span>I guess Emily has some battle scars because she at times tries to work us against each other for her advancement.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam would do anything for her.\u00a0 <\/span>He spoils her way too much.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam was hard on Jason growing up.\u00a0 <\/span>He loves all of our children of course, but I know Emily holds a very special place in his heart.\u00a0 <\/span>She always has.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica smiled and chuckled, \u201cOf course he says the same of me with Jason and Jillian.\u00a0 <\/span>He says I spoil them rotten while I\u2019m hard on Emily.\u00a0 <\/span>I just don\u2019t want Emily to be a spoiled brat.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s a good girl.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason and Jillian are so much alike.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam often calls Jillian his girl Jason.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe seems so tender and sweet.\u00a0 <\/span>She took to Eva and Ava.\u00a0 <\/span>They took to her as well.\u00a0 <\/span>My girls have never taken to someone so easily so quickly.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJillian\u2019s a gentle soul,\u201d Jessica said looking over at her daughter playing cards with her sister and soon to be sister-in-law.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cShe doesn\u2019t have the battle scars Jason and Emily have.\u00a0 <\/span>She does love her daddy, though.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s crawled in his lap before when he\u2019s watching a football game on Sunday afternoon, and she’ll fall asleep in his arms.\u00a0 <\/span>I treasure those moments.\u00a0 <\/span>I know Adam does, too.\u00a0 <\/span>He tells me all the time what a mommy\u2019s girl she is.\u00a0 <\/span>I always reply, just like Emily is a daddy\u2019s girl.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI guess my girls are more mommy girls, too.\u00a0 <\/span>Since most of their time is spent with me, they tend to come to me when they are sad or have a boo-boo that needs to be fixed. Dave is so sweet with them when he\u2019s around.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m usually the disciplinarian of the family, too. When Dave hands down punishment, the girls know it\u2019s serious.\u00a0 <\/span>They\u2019re sweet girls for the most part.\u00a0 <\/span>I just hope as they grow older, Dave will be able to balance his work life and home life better than he does today.\u00a0 <\/span>I guess having come from the medical world, I understand and can be a little more tolerant now.\u00a0 <\/span>When the girls are old enough to start being in sports or other extracurricular activities, I will demand Dave put the administrative pen down and come home to be at events that are important to his children.\u00a0 <\/span>He’s promised me he will.\u00a0 <\/span>I feel he will hold true to that promise; even if it means going from the boardroom to private practice again.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As the hour-long journey across the water to the Vineyard was ending, the captain of the ferry came on and let the passengers know they would soon be arriving and gave disembarking information.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily and Brianna packed up the cards as Jillian looked out the window and saw the Vineyard in their sights.\u00a0 <\/span>She got excited and shared her excitement with Jessica. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy!\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019re almost there!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian exclaimed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI see, Baby Girl!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said as she stood up to look out and see the ferry arriving at the dock. <\/span><\/p>\n

As the girls disembarked from the ferry, they found the company they would take on their tour of the island. <\/span><\/p>\n

Once on the bus, the tour director-driver welcomed everyone to Martha\u2019s Vineyard and went over the safety features of their tour bus and what their tour would consist of throughout the day. <\/span><\/p>\n

As they started to drive, the tour director started giving his narrative on the town to which they were starting their tour: Vineyard Haven.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cExcellent shops, fine restaurants, and a beautiful harbor are only a few of the attractions that make Vineyard Haven so special to tourists and residents alike.\u00a0 <\/span>The town which incorporates Vineyard Haven is called Tisbury, after a parish in England near the birthplace of the Island\u2019s first governor, Thomas Mayhew.\u00a0 <\/span>English settlement of the area dated from the mid-1600s when Mayhew purchased the settlement rights from the Crown.\u00a0 <\/span>Owen Park, off Main Street (just beyond the shopping district), honors one of Vineyard Haven\u2019s whaling captains.\u00a0 <\/span>The town beach here is an excellent place to watch the harbor.\u00a0 <\/span>Ferries shuttle in and out, providing the Island\u2019s year-round connection to the mainland. On the opposite side of Main Street from Owen Park is the Old Schoolhouse Museum.\u00a0 <\/span>Erected in 1828, this building has served many uses.\u00a0 <\/span>It was once a carpentry shop, a school, and later acted as the Congregational Church.\u00a0 <\/span>In front of the museum stands the tall white Liberty Pole, commemorating the daring of three young women who inserted gun powder in the base of the town\u2019s liberty pole in 1778 and blew it up to keep it from being used as a spar by a British warship.\u00a0 <\/span>When the Congregationalists outgrew their little church in 1844, they built a Neo-classic building on Spring Street which later became the Unitarian Church and eventually the town hall.\u00a0 <\/span>Vineyard Haven\u2019s municipal building is one of the Island\u2019s most handsome architectural legacies of whaling days.\u00a0 <\/span>The Vineyard Playhouse building on Church Street was built in 1833 as a Methodist meeting house.\u00a0 <\/span>Today it houses the Island\u2019s only year-round professional theater company.\u00a0 <\/span>When ships were powered by wind and canvas, Vineyard Haven was one of New England\u2019s busiest ports because of its strategic location on the sailing routes.\u00a0 <\/span>Most of the coastwise shipping traveled through Vineyard Sound (13,814 vessels were counted in 1845).\u00a0 <\/span>Holmes Hole, as this harbor community, was called, provided a convenient anchorage.\u00a0 <\/span>Here a ship and its crew could lay over comfortably to wait out inclement weather, pick up provisions, or take on an experienced local pilot who could negotiate the rips and shoals that were the unique perils of this sea route.\u00a0 <\/span>Along with Owen Park, the town maintains War Veterans\u2019 Memorial Park off Causeway Road (located just behind the fire station). The park includes playground equipment for young children and playing fields used by local ball teams.\u00a0 <\/span>There are many scenic places around the town: in addition to Main Street and the harbor, the Tashmoo Pond overlook on State Road, the nearby Tisbury Water Works, West Chop Lighthouse, and the area around the drawbridge on Beach Road are favorite spots for photographers.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As the tour left Vineyard Haven, Rebecca said once they returned, they would have time to do some shopping in town before they had to catch their ferry back to Nantucket.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the tour bus drove west, the tour director said they were entering the next town which was West Tisbury and as he drove around the town, he gave a history lesson as he drove by different historical sites.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was the mill site which originally attracted settlers to West Tisbury because there was no stream in Edgartown robust enough to the dam for a water wheel.\u00a0 <\/span>The grist mill gave way in 1847 to the manufacture of satinet, a thick fabric for whalemen\u2019s jackets made from Island wool.<\/span><\/p>\n

The Congregational Church on State Road is always open to visitors.\u00a0 <\/span>Solid and settled as it now looks, even this structure did not escape the Islanders\u2019 penchant for moving buildings around. The original churchyard, where the first settlers of the town are buried, is about a quarter of a mile down the road.\u00a0 <\/span>Near the church is the West Tisbury Town Hall.\u00a0 <\/span>Several old houses here started out as inns, back when a trip from the down-Island ports to Aquinnah or Chilmark was a long haul over sandy roads.\u00a0 <\/span>Daniel Webster stayed at the house next to the store building. \u00a0 <\/span>Across the little pond from the old inn is the site of a house built by Miles Standish\u2019s son in 1668.<\/span><\/p>\n

The largest houses in town were owned by captains, and some of the finest are still occupied by their descendants.\u00a0 <\/span>Several captains\u2019 homes can be found on Music Street, given its name after a number of its families purchased pianos with new whaling money.\u00a0 <\/span>The Lambert\u2019s Cove settlement has its share of fine homes and a charming white church.\u00a0 <\/span>The Cove was once a place of anchorage for the town of West Tisbury.\u00a0 <\/span>The area housed clay works, salt works, and extensive trap fishing operations.\u00a0 <\/span>All this has vanished.\u00a0 <\/span>Even the road to the harbor is gone.\u00a0 <\/span>A woodland path leads to the beach, which is now set aside for year-round and summer residents of West Tisbury.\u00a0 <\/span>Other points of interest are Cedar Tree Neck Nature Preserve, the Polly Hill Arboretum, and the Christiantown Memorial.\u00a0 <\/span>Cedar Tree Neck offers unspoiled woods, with a freshwater pond and brooks, bounded by North Shore Beach.\u00a0 <\/span>Picnics, fishing, and bathing are not permitted, but there are marked trails for those who enjoy the opportunity to watch birds and walking.\u00a0 <\/span>The Arboretum contains more than 200 species of trees, a picnic area, and Visitors\u2019 Center.\u00a0 <\/span>As we drive down Christiantown road, you will see The Christiantown Memorial.\u00a0 <\/span>Here you see a tiny chapel, a pulpit rock where services were held for the Wampanoag in the 17th century, the rough small burial stones of these first converts, and a nearby wildflower garden.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Continuing on the tour hits the next town on the Vineyard.\u00a0 <\/span>The tour operator told the tourist if they had any questions about any of the towns, to please ask, he\u2019d be happy to answer any questions.\u00a0 <\/span>As they entered the town of Chilmark, the tour guide-driver began his talk about the third town on the tour.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cChilmark is a town of rolling hills and unmatched coastline.\u00a0 <\/span>Not so long ago uninhabited except for an occasional farm or fishing village, it now provides the setting for many a summer home.\u00a0 <\/span>The stone fences of the sheep farms still ribbon the hills, while the old stone animal pound stands on the South Road, a reminder of the days when a gate left open resulted in a roaming flock and a penalty for its owner.\u00a0 <\/span>The center of Chilmark boasts a lovely church.\u00a0 <\/span>The unique pointed steeple was added when the building was moved in 1915 from its original site on Middle Road.\u00a0 <\/span>All roads from the center at Beetlebung Corner lead to points of beauty.\u00a0 <\/span>Middle Road, perhaps the least improved of Island main roads, provides a lovely view of a placid farm with the Atlantic Ocean as a backdrop.\u00a0 <\/span>The Menemsha Crossroad joins North Road and takes one to the fishing village once known as Menemsha Creek.\u00a0 <\/span>Here the draggers still come in with their great nets, and the lobstermen land their catches. Seafood may be purchased on the spot. <\/span><\/p>\n

Lovely private vessels lie along the docks while yachtsmen take on fresh water and supplies.\u00a0 <\/span>A safe public bathing beach is another attraction.\u00a0 <\/span>Menemsha is also the home of a Coast Guard station.\u00a0 <\/span>Before the days when the Coast Guard looked out for shipwrecked vessels, Islanders took it upon themselves to form volunteer groups that provided assistance to sailors in times of need.\u00a0 <\/span>Open dories were launched into the stormy seas from Squibnocket Landing, the only beach on the South Shore shallow enough for a boat to be launched or landed in heavy weather. It is now a beach for year-round and Chilmark summer residents.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As they began the half way mark of their tour, the tour guide starts to tell them about the southwestern point of the island, Aquinnah.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMany year-round residents of Aquinnah are descendants of the Wampanoag Indians who showed the colonial settlers how to kill whales, plant corn, and find clay for the early brickyards. Much later, these Aquinnah Indians were in high demand as boat steerers in the whaling fleets.\u00a0 <\/span>It was the boat steerer who cast the iron into the whale.\u00a0 <\/span>The Aquinnah Indians were judged to be the most skillful and courageous boat steerers of that era.\u00a0 <\/span>The courage of the early residents of Aquinnah demonstrated itself in the many instances when they took to the seas in deadly weather to aid survivors of wrecks that occurred off the Aquinnah Cliffs.\u00a0 <\/span>As further testament to their valor, a plaque on the schoolhouse commemorates the fact that Aquinnah sent more men, in proportion to its size, to fight in World War I than did any other town in New England.\u00a0 <\/span>The brilliant colors of the mile-long expanse of the Aquinnah Cliffs astonished early explorers and have continued to be a source of intense interest to scientists and visitors alike.\u00a0 <\/span>Here layers of sands, gravels, and clays of various hues tell a hundred-million-year-old story of a land first covered with forests, then flooded and laid bare, then covered with new growth, time and again. <\/span><\/p>\n

The seas, glaciers, and the land itself have contorted these once-level layers into waving bands of color that stream above the sea.\u00a0 <\/span>Erosion continues as it has for centuries, turning the seas red and revealing fossil secrets.\u00a0 <\/span>From the fossils revealed by erosion, we know of the great sharks that swam over what is now Chilmark, of the clams and crabs that inhabited ancient seas.\u00a0 <\/span>Pieces of lignite from the Cretaceous period are found on the beach, looking like nothing so much as the remnants of recent campfires.\u00a0 <\/span>Fossil bones of camels and wild horses, as well as those of ancient whales, have been found in the Cliffs.\u00a0 <\/span>The Aquinnah Cliffs are a national landmark, yet they are severely threatened by carelessness.\u00a0 <\/span>To protect the Cliffs, climbing and the removal of clay are both prohibited by law.\u00a0 <\/span>Because of the extremely dangerous rocky ledge offshore, the seas around Aquinnah have always been a place of great peril to the mariner. One of the first revolving lighthouses in the country was erected atop the Cliffs in 1799.\u00a0 <\/span>It had wooden works that became swollen in damp or cold weather when the lighthouse keeper and his wife would be obliged to stand all night and turn the light by hand.\u00a0 <\/span>The current red-brick, electrified Gay Head Light stands in its place.\u00a0 <\/span>In the beginning, the cliffs were called Gay Head instead of Aquinnah. \u00a0The name change caused quite a stir on the Island, of course.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As the tour rounded the island and headed back east, they entered the next stop on their tour, Edgartown.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOne of New England\u2019s most beautiful communities, Edgartown was the Island\u2019s first colonial settlement, and it has been the county seat since 1642.\u00a0 <\/span>The stately white Greek Revival houses built by the whaling captains have been carefully maintained.\u00a0 <\/span>They make the town a museum-piece community, a seaport village preserved from the early 19th century.\u00a0 <\/span>Main Street is a picture-book setting with its harbor and waterfront.\u00a0 <\/span>The square-rigged tall ships that sailed all the world\u2019s oceans have passed from the Edgartown scene, but the heritage of those vessels and their captains has continued.\u00a0 <\/span>For the past hundred years, Edgartown has been one of the world\u2019s great yachting centers.\u00a0 <\/span>To view and appreciate this town fully, you must walk its streets.\u00a0 <\/span>North Water Street has a row of captains\u2019 houses not equaled anywhere. Study the fanlights and widows walk by day and stroll down the streets after the lamps are lit.\u00a0 <\/span>South Water Street is dominated by an enormous pagoda tree brought from China as a seedling by Captain Thomas Milton in the early days of the 19th century.\u00a0 <\/span>The house beyond it was that of Captain Valentine Pease, on whose ship Herman Melville made his only whaling voyage.\u00a0 <\/span>Many homes in Edgartown predate the whaling era.\u00a0 <\/span>Most are private residences, but three notable ones are serving other needs.\u00a0 <\/span>The Vincent House (built in 1672, the oldest known house on the Island) and the Thomas Cooke House are museums.\u00a0 <\/span>At 34 South Summer Street, you\u2019ll find the home built by Benjamin Smith in 1760.\u00a0 <\/span>It is now the office of the Vineyard Gazette.\u00a0 <\/span>Across from the Gazette is the Federated Church, constructed in 1828.\u00a0 <\/span>It still has the old box pews, which are entered through little doors and have narrow seats around three sides.\u00a0 <\/span>The famous Old Whaling Church with its six massive columns commands Main Street.\u00a0 <\/span>Built in 1843 at the height of the whaling industry, the Church was given to the Martha\u2019s Vineyard Preservation Trust in 1980.\u00a0 <\/span>It has been transformed into a performing arts center.\u00a0 <\/span>Next door is the Dr. Daniel Fisher House, built three years before the Old Whaling Church.\u00a0 <\/span>There are excellent public beaches in the township of Edgartown.\u00a0 <\/span>Norton\u2019s Point, known as Katama, is a barrier beach providing surf bathing and the opportunity to explore Katama Bay on the other side of the dunes.\u00a0 <\/span>Wasque and Cape Poge on Chappaquiddick are both unspoiled areas owned and maintained by The Trustees of Reservations.\u00a0 <\/span>They are favorite spots for bluefish and bass fishermen.\u00a0 <\/span>Lighthouse Beach, located off North Water Street near the town center, offers calm water and views of harbor activities.\u00a0 <\/span>Bend-in-the-Road Beach, part of Joseph Sylvia Beach, has ample parking and is accessible by bicycle trail.\u00a0 <\/span>Felix Neck is 200 acres, owned by the Massachusetts Audubon Society, provide marked trails and a program of wildlife management and conservation education throughout the year.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As the tour entered the last township on the tour, the guide gave a brief summary of the eastern town on the Vineyard: Oak Bluffs.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIn 1835 this community served as the site for annual summer camp meetings when Methodist church groups found the groves and pastures of Martha\u2019s Vineyard particularly well suited to all-day gospel sessions.\u00a0 <\/span>The early participants were African Americans. \u00a0It was what set the town apart, and the Islanders are quite proud of it. \u00a0Wesleyan Grove, as the Oak Bluffs Campground was called, rode the crest of the religious revival movement.\u00a0 <\/span>By the mid-1850s the Sabbath meetings here were drawing congregations of 12,000 people.\u00a0 <\/span>They came for the sunshine and sermonizing in hundreds of individual church groups.\u00a0 <\/span>Each group had its own communal tent where the contingent bedded down in straw purchased from local farmers.\u00a0 <\/span>Services were held in a large central tent.\u00a0 <\/span>The communal tents gave way to \u201cfamily tents,\u201d which reluctant church authorities granted only to \u201csuitable\u201d families.\u00a0 <\/span>But the leisure urge could not be checked.\u00a0 <\/span>Family tents turned into wooden cottages, designed to look like tents.\u00a0 <\/span>And the cottages multiplied, trying to out-do each other in brightly painted fantasies of gingerbread.\u00a0 <\/span>A new all-steel Tabernacle structure replaced the big central tent in 1879; it stands today as an elegant memento of the age of ironwork architecture.\u00a0 <\/span>Within 40 years of the first camp meeting here, there were crowds of 30,000 attending the Grand Illumination that marked the end of the summer season with a grand show of Japanese lanterns and fireworks.\u00a0 <\/span>Wesleyan Grove struggled to hold its own against such secular attractions as ocean bathing, berry picking, walking in the woods, fishing, and croquet playing.\u00a0 <\/span>There were efforts to ban peddlers, especially book peddlers.\u00a0 <\/span>A high picket fence was built around the Campground proper.\u00a0 <\/span>By 1870, Wesleyan Grove had expanded into Cottage City and Cottage City had become the town of Oak Bluffs, with more than 1,000 cottages.\u00a0 <\/span>Steam vessels from New York, Providence, Boston, and Portland continued to bring more enthusiastic devotees of the Oak Bluffs way of life.\u00a0 <\/span>Horse cars were used to bring vacationers from the dock to the Tabernacle.\u00a0 <\/span>The horse cars were later replaced by a steam train ran all the way to Katama.\u00a0 <\/span>One of the first passengers on the train was President Ulysses S. Grant.\u00a0 <\/span>The railroad gave way to an electric trolley from Vineyard Haven to the Oak Bluffs wharves, and the trolley eventually gave way to the automobile.\u00a0 <\/span>Oak Bluffs is also the home of the Flying Horses Carousel, the oldest continuously operating carousel in the country. Its horses were hand-carved in New York City in 1876.\u00a0 <\/span>This historic landmark is maintained by the Martha\u2019s Vineyard Preservation Trust.\u00a0 <\/span>It is open daily during the summer, and on weekends in the spring and fall.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As they entered back into Vineyard Haven, the tour operator explained he would drop off in the center of town for those who wanted to go shopping.\u00a0 <\/span>He then would make his way back to the ferry dock where those who were to be transported to their guest houses, bed and breakfast, or hotels for their stay on the Vineyard would be picked up.\u00a0 <\/span>Rebecca, Jessica, and the girls got off to do some shopping.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI want to take you girls to lunch at the Black Dog, but I would like to take you first to Brickman\u2019s,\u201d Rebecca told them as they got off the bus. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEstablished in 1913 as a cobbler shop, Brickman’s has evolved into a full-service footwear, apparel, sporting goods and toy store for the entire family.\u00a0 <\/span>They feature brand name merchandise as well as many private label items, including their unique world-famous Brick-Red apparel and accessories collection,\u201d Rebecca explained as they walked toward the shop.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once inside, the younger Cartwright girls and Brianna headed over to the section that had clothes for the younger generation while Rebecca and Jessica headed to the ladies department and looked through the vast array of clothing they offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

After picking up some Martha\u2019s Vineyard t-shirts, sweatshirts, as well as shirts and shorts for Adam and Jason, the girls left the shop and headed to the Black Dog for lunch.<\/span><\/p>\n

As they walked toward the tavern, Rebecca gave a brief history of the tavern and how it came into existence.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou might be surprised to learn the inspiration for this hearty fare was, of all things, a stale donut.\u00a0 <\/span>It was a desperately cold day in 1969.\u00a0 <\/span>With the Vineyard having no year-round restaurant, Captain Robert Douglas’ repast on that particular night was a bitter cup of coffee and a dry, packaged, store-bought donut.\u00a0 <\/span>The Captain had finally had enough.\u00a0 <\/span>He began sketching on a paper napkin.\u00a0 <\/span>A small gambrel-roofed building started to take shape.\u00a0 <\/span>There were more napkins and more sketches.\u00a0 <\/span>Captain Douglas played with the placement of the windows, added dormers, and then pulled it all together with a large red brick chimney.\u00a0 <\/span>The restaurant would look just right on the beach at the head of Vineyard Haven harbor, he thought.\u00a0 <\/span>It would give Islanders and visitors a place to meet and eat. \u00a0 <\/span>The Captains excitement was contagious. Townsfolk helped build and shingle the establishment.\u00a0 <\/span>Locals shared their recipes for pies, chowders, and soups.\u00a0 <\/span>The Captain named the restaurant after his faithful black canine companion, The Black Dog. \u00a0 <\/span>Now, Robert Douglas had three passions, his sailboat, the Vineyard and good food. \u00a0 <\/span>The Black Dog is known for its menu, desserts, and atmosphere, as well as the view of the harbor and its sailing vessels.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSounds fantastic!\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m getting hungry!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica exclaimed as they walked through the door of the restaurant.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the girls sat down and looked at the menu, Rebecca whispered to the hostess it was Jessica\u2019s birthday and would she mind telling the waiter.\u00a0 <\/span>She smiled and was happy to pass along the information.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHello! Welcome to the Black Dog.\u00a0 <\/span>Is this everyone\u2019s first visit?\u201d asked the friendly waitress who would be serving them.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes and no,\u201d replied Rebecca with a big smile.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI\u2019ve been here many times, but this is the first time for everyone else.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, welcome!\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019re glad to have you back,\u201d she said looking at Rebecca, and looking at the Cartwrights and Brianna, she welcomed them for the first time.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf you need extra time to look over the menu, may I get you all something to drink?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily, and Brianna all ordered sodas while Rebecca, Jessica, and Jillian ordered lemonade. <\/span><\/p>\n

When the waitress came back to the table with the drink orders, the girls were ready to order. Rebecca suggested everyone order at least a cup of Quahog (clam) Chowder.\u00a0 <\/span>Each of the girls except Jillian also ordered one of each of their fresh salads from their menu.\u00a0 <\/span>Rebecca ordered the Caesar salad, Jessica and Emily both ordered the spinach salad, while Brianna ordered the orange sesame chicken salad.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian ordered a chicken pesto sandwich.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe chowder is excellent, Rebecca!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna said as she enjoyed her cup of The Black Dog\u2019s specialty. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe butter floating on the top really adds a delicious richness to the chowder,\u201d Jessica also commented.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou just can\u2019t come to The Black Dog without having some Quahog.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s just not done,\u201d Rebecca said.<\/span><\/p>\n

After finishing their lunch, the girls were sitting, talking about how they were going to take a cab over to Edgartown to do more shopping. The waitress and other staff from the Black Dog came out with a slice of the Black Dog\u2019s famous decadent blackout cake with a candle lit in the center, singing Happy Birthday for Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica\u2019s face showed shock and a broad smile as everyone at the table joined in with the waiters wishing Jessica a happy birthday.\u00a0 <\/span>After the song was finished, Jessica thanked everyone for their wishes, and she blew out her candle.\u00a0 <\/span>The waitress brought out forks for everyone as the piece of cake was enormous and all could have several bites.<\/span><\/p>\n

After the waitress had dropped off the check, Rebecca paid the tab and the girls asked to stop at the gift shop so they could get a souvenir t-shirt and Black Dog boxers.<\/span><\/p>\n

The girls caught a taxi over to Edgartown for shopping, and Rebecca insisted everyone must have ice cream at Mad Martha\u2019s before catching their ferry back to Nantucket. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMad Martha\u2019s has the most amazing handmade ice cream.\u00a0 <\/span>A trip to Martha\u2019s Vineyard is never complete unless you eat at The Black Dog and have an ice cream at Mad Martha\u2019s,\u201d Rebecca said.<\/span><\/p>\n

While in the taxi, Jessica explained to Rebecca she had told Adam she didn\u2019t want anything special for her birthday, but how she always told him this every year but he never listened, and she always enjoyed seeing what Adam would surprise her with. <\/span><\/p>\n

Rebecca smiled as Jessica told her of some of the special surprises he would come up with each year.\u00a0 <\/span>Rebecca then told her of some of the personal birthday fantasies David would come up with to surprise her as well.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad, what are you planning to do for mom\u2019s birthday tonight?\u00a0 <\/span>Do you have anything special planned?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason asked his father as they were waiting for David to tee off at the sixteenth hole.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI asked your mother if she wanted to do anything special tonight, but she told me since we were the guest of friends, she didn\u2019t want anything special so I haven\u2019t planned to do anything this year.\u00a0 <\/span>By the way, Jason, do you have the ring I had custom made for her by the jeweler in Cambridge?\u201d
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, Dad, it\u2019s in my luggage at the house.\u00a0 <\/span>Remind me to get it when we get back and I\u2019ll give it to you.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s beautiful.\u00a0 <\/span>They did a magnificent job.\u00a0 <\/span>Mom\u2019s going to love it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As Jason took his turn on the tee, David came over to Adam to talk to him about doing something special for Jessica\u2019s birthday.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, if you would like to take Jessica out to dinner tonight, Brant Point Grille is a beautiful restaurant, and it has magnificent views of the harbor as well.\u00a0 <\/span>The girls can stay with us.\u00a0 <\/span>I know our girls love playing with Jillian, and we can find something to entertain Emily while you two are gone.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s very kind of you, Dave, to want to stay back with our girls while Jessica and I go have dinner, but she was very emphatic about not doing anything special for her this year.\u00a0 <\/span>I have a gift for her I plan to give her tonight.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, it\u2019s your funeral, friend,\u201d Dave laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Jason also laughed at David\u2019s remark about Adam not planning anything special for Jessica, but Adam felt Jessica was right about not feeling it was appropriate to celebrate her birthday while the guest at Rebecca and David\u2019s home.<\/span><\/p>\n

After the golf game had been finished, the three guys joined in the country club dining room to have a late lunch and drink beer.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam told David about the beautiful mother\u2019s ring he commissioned from a favorite jeweler he had in Cambridge, MA, he had found when attending Harvard. Whenever he wanted a custom piece of jewelry made, he always called his friend at Daniel R. Spirer Jewelers. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can tell him what I have in mind, and he brings it to life.\u00a0 <\/span>He\u2019s an amazing jeweler.\u00a0 <\/span>He designed the diamond cuff I gave Jessica for our last anniversary.\u00a0 <\/span>She absolutely loved it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat did you have made for her for her birthday this year?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>David asked, eating a bite of his lunch.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI had a mother\u2019s ring made, but not your typical mother\u2019s ring.\u00a0 <\/span>It has our children\u2019s birthstones in it, but it also has her\u2019s and mine as well.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s a scroll design, almost like a tree of life if you will. It has our birthstones repeating all around the entire ring.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica prefers white medals, so I had it designed in platinum.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt sounds lovely.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sure she\u2019ll love it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt is gorgeous, Dave.\u00a0 <\/span>Mom will love it, I\u2019m sure.\u00a0 <\/span>Dad has great taste.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t think Mom has ever not liked any jewelry you\u2019ve ever had custom made for her, has she, Dad?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot that I\u2019m aware of, Jason,\u201d Adam laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t imagine a woman ever not liking jewelry that is given to her as a gift,\u201d David smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re probably right there, Dave!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason smiled as well.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJessica has been through a lot this year.\u00a0 <\/span>First, her eldest and only son moved away to go to college for the first time.\u00a0 <\/span>She had the cancer scare, and she\u2019s always saying how old she\u2019s getting.\u00a0 <\/span>I wanted to have something special and unique made for her this year.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

After their late lunch, the boys headed back to David and Rebecca\u2019s home.\u00a0 <\/span>David stopped and picked up the twins at their friend\u2019s home.\u00a0 <\/span>The girls cried when they had to leave, but David assured them it would not be long before Jillian would return, and they could all play before having to go to bed.\u00a0 <\/span>This news seemed to make the girls happy, and when they returned home, they went into their room to play until Jillian could join them.<\/span><\/p>\n

It was almost 7:30 P.M. when Rebecca called to let David know the ferry was about ten minutes out and for him to come and get them at the pier.\u00a0 <\/span>David excused himself while he went to pick the ladies up from their trip.<\/span><\/p>\n

When everyone returned home, Jillian went to the twin\u2019s room and joined them as they were playing with their Barbies.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason went with Brianna to the room they shared together so Brianna could tell him about their day at Martha\u2019s Vineyard and show him all the things she had bought for both of them.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica went into the room she shared with Adam and began sorting through her many shopping bags sorting out the items she had bought for the girls and Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam came into the room and wrapped his arms around her waist and kissed her on the neck. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHappy Birthday, my love,\u201d he said as he started to pull her blouse from her crop pants.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica slapped his hands away.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWill you stop that, Adam?\u201d she protested, \u201cI told you this morning, I don\u2019t want to make love in your ex-girlfriend\u2019s home!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam rolled his eyes and let go of his embrace around Jessica and sat on the bed as she showed him all she had bought on their day trip to Martha\u2019s Vineyard.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Jessica was showing Adam the clothes she had bought for him, herself, and the girls, she casually asked where Adam was planning to take her for her birthday.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam\u2019s face got long, and he looked at her with a puzzled look.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJess, you told me you didn\u2019t want anything special for your birthday.\u00a0 <\/span>I took you at your word and didn\u2019t plan anything this year.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica stopped at looked at Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>She fought back the tears, but her eyes glistened over anyway.\u00a0 <\/span>She started to say something, but she held her tongue and folded the clothes back up and put them away without saying anything more.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam sat on the bed a few moments as he watched Jessica put the things away.\u00a0 <\/span>He saw her move her hand to her face a few times; he could see she was wiping away tears from her eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

He got up off the bed and headed over to her and placed his hands on her shoulders, but she shrugged him away.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Jess.\u00a0 <\/span>You told me you didn\u2019t want any special celebration this year since we were going to be visiting Rebecca and Dave at their home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica spun around and glared at Adam with teary eyes, \u201cWhen has that ever stopped you in the past, Adam?\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019ve always planned something special for my birthday!\u00a0 <\/span>This year was more important than ever because all I\u2019ve been through!\u00a0 <\/span>I can\u2019t believe you would actually take my comment so literally this year!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf you want, we can go have dinner somewhere together.\u00a0 <\/span>Dave offered to watch the girls while we were gone.\u00a0 <\/span>Do you want to go to dinner, just me and you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s not the point, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s not something you planned out.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s something you\u2019ve tried to come up with at the last minute to soothe me.\u00a0 <\/span>It doesn\u2019t even have any meaning behind it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam turned away from Jessica and went over to the dresser in their room.\u00a0 <\/span>He opened the drawer and pulled out the small ring box and a birthday card.\u00a0 <\/span>He was so upset with how Jessica reacted to him not planning a birthday party for her, he decided to just give her her present and go for a walk on the beach.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHere, this is for you.\u00a0 <\/span>Happy birthday, Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>I might not have been a good husband and planned a birthday party for you, but I hope you at least like the present I got for you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

He laid the ring and card on the bed and walked out.\u00a0 <\/span>He walked through the kitchen toward the back door that led to the beach.\u00a0 <\/span>David and Rebecca were in the kitchen when Adam entered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going for a walk on the beach.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll be back in a little while,\u201d Adam said in a somber tone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs Jessica…\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Rebecca started to say but didn\u2019t get to finish her sentence before Adam was out the door and the door was shut.<\/span><\/p>\n

Rebecca turned to David and looked at him with a worried look on her face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you think that was all about?\u201d she asked David.<\/span><\/p>\n

David shrugged his shoulders, and he went back to making a glass of lemonade. <\/span><\/p>\n

After Adam had left the room, Jessica turned around and saw the ring and card laying on the bed. She came to the bed and sat down, picking up the ring and card.\u00a0 <\/span>She opened the card, and it was a silhouette of a man and woman standing on the beach at sunset, in a loving embrace.\u00a0 <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

The caption on the front read: <\/span><\/p>\n

To the most amazing wife on her birthday.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica opened the card to read the inside which was inscribed: \u201cI’m enthralled by your beauty, mesmerized by your charisma, and spellbound by your love.\u00a0 <\/span>Because you’re the gift in my life, I give you my gift of love.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Adam then wrote a personal message of his own: <\/span><\/p>\n

My heart for you will never break.\u00a0 <\/span>My smile for you will never fade.\u00a0 <\/span>My love for you will never end.\u00a0 <\/span>I love you.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Jessica put down the card and picked up the box.\u00a0 <\/span>She opened it and found the ring inside.\u00a0 <\/span>She immediately noticed all the birthstones of her children, herself and Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>She rolled the ring around, looking at all the stones and diamonds that were mixed in throughout.\u00a0 <\/span>Tears filled her eyes as she slipped the ring on her right ring finger.\u00a0 <\/span>She wiped away the tears and stared at her hand. <\/span><\/p>\n

The guilt she felt for being so hard on Adam for not planning anything for her birthday was starting to take a toll on her.\u00a0 <\/span>She grabbed her purse and anxiously looked for a tissue to wipe away the falling tears.\u00a0 <\/span>She wanted to be angry at Adam still, but she was finding it difficult after reading such a romantic birthday card and opening her beautiful gift.\u00a0 <\/span>She was more upset with herself for being so angry with him for not having something planned for her birthday. <\/span><\/p>\n

After she composed herself and wiped away the last few escaping tears, she walked out and ran into Jason in the hallway.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHave you seen your father?\u201d she asked him with still a slight sorrow in her voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason\u2019s face turned from happiness to concern when he realized his mother had been crying, and now she was asking where Adam might be.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Mom, I don\u2019t know.\u00a0 <\/span>Is everything okay with the two of you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re okay, honey, I just need to find your dad, that\u2019s all.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica walked down the hall toward the kitchen.\u00a0 <\/span>Rebecca was the only one in the kitchen when Jessica entered.\u00a0 <\/span>She hated to ask her if she knew where Adam might be because Jessica didn\u2019t want to set off any alarms, but she needed to ask.\u00a0 <\/span>She took a deep breath, tried to put on a smile and entered the kitchen.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, do by chance know where my Adam is?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked trying to sound as if nothing was wrong.<\/span><\/p>\n

Rebecca turned around and smiled. \u201cYes, he came through here about fifteen minutes ago saying he was going to take a walk on the beach,\u201d pointing to the door.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica smiled and said, \u201cThank you,\u201d and walked out the back door.\u00a0 <\/span>Rebecca went to the door and watched Jessica walked down the deck toward the stairs that led to the beach. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica saw Adam sitting on the sand picking up broken pieces of shells and throwing them in the ocean.\u00a0 <\/span>She walked up to him, but he didn\u2019t acknowledge her presence.\u00a0 <\/span>She sat down next to him, staring at him, but Adam did not look her way, he only continued to pick up the shells and throw them into the surf.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love the ring and my card, thank you, Adam,\u201d she said continuing to look at him.<\/span><\/p>\n

Without even looking at her, Adam replied, \u201cYou\u2019re welcome.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

He picked up a few more pieces of shell and threw them toward the water and stopped.\u00a0 <\/span>Still unable to look at Jessica, he put his hands on his knees staring into the blue-green water.<\/span><\/p>\n

The two sat silent for several minutes.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica finally spoke again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry for the way I acted.\u00a0 <\/span>I had no right to be angry after I told you to not plan anything for me this year.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s just in the past, you always had even though I would say not to worry about planning anything special.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked at Jessica with a furrowed brow.\u00a0 <\/span>He was not happy with her immature attitude back at the house.\u00a0 <\/span>He did, however, appreciate her coming to apologize, but he wondered if he had waited to give her a ring, would she have had the change of heart and attitude now.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI work really hard to give you and our family a beautiful home, a comfortable life.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m not perfect…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI never said you were, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m not either,\u201d Jessica interrupted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMay I finish?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam responded curtly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, please continue,\u201d Jessica said looking down, picking up sand and letting it fall through her fingers.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI always strive to be the husband you want me to be, but I\u2019m human, Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>I will fail your expectations at times.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sorry I didn\u2019t plan a surprise party for you.\u00a0 <\/span>You said you didn\u2019t want any type of celebration this year because we were going to be here at Nantucket.\u00a0 <\/span>I wish I had made dinner reservations for us tonight, but I didn\u2019t.\u00a0 <\/span>I wanted to give you your present tonight before we went to bed.\u00a0 <\/span>I wanted to share in your opening it, but your outburst at me made me lose the desire.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI do love it, Adam,\u201d Jessica said with tears starting to fall again.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI sometimes know I act like a little child when things don\u2019t always go my way.\u00a0 <\/span>I guess Emily gets that from me.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve been through so much this year.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sorry for expecting you to always know what I really want even though I communicate it differently.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll let you be alone now.\u00a0 <\/span>I just wanted to come and apologize to you and thank you for the beautiful ring.\u00a0 <\/span>I do love it very much.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica got up and started back for the house.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam stayed sitting for a few moments before turning to see Jessica walking back to the house.\u00a0 <\/span>He began to get up, but turned back around and looked at the waves rolling in. <\/span><\/p>\n

After about fifteen minutes, Adam got up and headed back to the house.\u00a0 <\/span>He saw Jessica sitting on the steps of the deck that led back up to the house.\u00a0 <\/span>When Adam reached the steps, he sat down next to her and took her hand, the hand with the ring.\u00a0 <\/span>He rolled the ring on her finger and looked at it. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a perfect fit.\u00a0 <\/span>It looks beautiful on you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you.\u00a0 <\/span>A very loving man gave it to me.\u00a0 <\/span>He always knows what to give me, and it\u2019s always a great fit.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam chuckled and smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cThat man is a very lucky man to have a woman as amazing as you. I know he loves you with all his heart.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAs I do him.\u00a0 <\/span>Always have, always will.\u00a0 <\/span>Oh, Adam, I do love you, and I am really sorry for my behavior earlier.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam reached over and stroked Jessica\u2019s check with the back of his hand.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cAll is forgiven.\u00a0 <\/span>I love you, too, Babe.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica leaned over and placed her head on Adam\u2019s shoulder.\u00a0 <\/span>He scooted next to her and put his arm around her.\u00a0 <\/span>She laid her head on his chest and put her arms around him. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMom needs a kiss from Dad,\u201d Jessica said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe does, huh?\u00a0 <\/span>I think Dad needs a kiss from Mom, too,\u201d Adam said as he looked down, put his hand under Jessica\u2019s chin, put his lips to her\u2019s kissing her tenderly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s go in the house.\u00a0 <\/span>Everyone will wonder where we are if we don\u2019t go in soon,\u201d Adam said getting up and holding his hand out to help Jessica up.<\/span><\/p>\n

The two walked to the house and met Emily, Jason, Brianna, Rebecca and Dave in the living room enjoying some lemonade and sandwiches that Rebecca had made.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThere they are!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>David said as he saw Adam and Jessica walk back into the house.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cEverything okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica looked up at Adam and smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cYes, everything is just fine.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan I get you two some lemonade or something else to drink?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Rebecca said as she got up to head into the kitchen.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLemonade sounds great to me, Adam do you want anything?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll have a beer, thanks.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Jessica went to sit down on the fireplace hearth and David went to help Rebecca in the kitchen. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jason and Adam were listening to the girls tell about their trip to Martha\u2019s Vineyard when David and Rebecca reentered the room singing, \u201cHappy Birthday\u201d and carrying a cake with candles lit on top.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica looked totally surprised and then looked back at Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>He shrugged his shoulders and said he didn\u2019t know anything about it, but joined in singing with everyone else.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian and the twins heard the singing and came out to see what was happening.\u00a0 <\/span>They came and sat on the floor next to Emily as Rebecca sat the cake on the coffee table for Jessica to blow out the candles.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once Jessica blew out the candles, David handed Adam his beer and put the tray into the pitcher of lemonade, glasses, and plates on the table next to the cake.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI knew it was your birthday, and even though you didn\u2019t want a huge celebration, we couldn\u2019t let the day go past without a cake, so I took the liberty of ordering a cake for tonight!\u00a0 <\/span>Adam didn\u2019t even know about it,\u201d Rebecca explained.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know what to say!\u00a0 <\/span>Thank you so much.\u00a0 <\/span>It means a lot to me you went to all this trouble.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s so pretty!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, Jason, Jillian, and I, with the help of Daddy for Jillian and me, of course, got you a present.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason handed the small box gift-wrapped so elegantly along with the card to their mother. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Honey, thank you!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said as she looked at the box and card.\u00a0 <\/span>She sat the box on her lap and opened the card.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica opened the card, and it had a cake with streamers, balloons, and the card read:\u00a0 <\/span>Happy Birthday, Mom! <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica opened the card and read the inscription aloud:\u00a0 <\/span>God created mom\u2019s to help their children grow and nurture them with love.\u00a0 <\/span>Today is your birthday, Mom, and we want to share a piece of our\u00a0love back with you on your special day.\u00a0<\/span><\/em> Each of the kids signed the card in their own special way. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jason and Brianna: We love you, Mom.\u00a0 <\/span>Thank you for always being there for us.\u00a0 <\/span>We love you. Happy Birthday. Love, Jason and Brianna<\/em>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily:\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy, I\u2019m so lucky to have you as my mentor and role model.\u00a0 <\/span>Thank you for being the best mommy ever.\u00a0 <\/span>I love you, Emily<\/em>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian:\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy, thank you for being my mommy.\u00a0 <\/span>I love you so much!\u00a0 <\/span>Happy Birthday, Love, your baby girl, Jillian<\/em>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Tears came to Jessica\u2019s eyes as she read each of the inscriptions.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI\u2019ll treasure this always! Thank you so much again!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica picked up her present from her lap and started to open it.\u00a0 <\/span>She handed the paper to Adam, and he held it as he looked on to see what was in the box.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica opened the box and inside the box was another box.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica turned the box over to empty the inner box into her hand.\u00a0 <\/span>She opened the inner box and gasped at the beauty of what lay inside the box.\u00a0 <\/span>It was a white gold locket on a white gold snake chain. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, kids, this is exquisite!\u00a0 <\/span>Thank you!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOpen the locket, Mommy!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily said with excitement.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica pulled the chain and locket from the box and opened the locket.\u00a0 <\/span>She put her hand to her mouth and tears started to fall from her eyes.\u00a0 <\/span>On one side of the locket was a picture of Jason and Brianna.\u00a0 <\/span>On the other was a picture of Adam, Emily, and Jillian. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, guys!\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s beautiful!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica\u2019s voice was hardly heard because she was so taken over by emotion.\u00a0 <\/span>She passed the delicate chain and locket around for everyone to see, including David and Rebecca. <\/span><\/p>\n

After everyone had a look at her birthday present, Jessica was handed back the chain and pendant.\u00a0 <\/span>Her hands started to shake because she was so overcome with joy when she tried to unhook the clasp to put it on.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam took the locket from her hands, unhooked the clasp and put it around Jessica\u2019s neck and hooked it. <\/span><\/p>\n

Once the locket was on, she put her hand on Adam\u2019s face and mouthed, \u201cThank you!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>She then got up and kissed each of her children and Brianna, and thanked them all for the special present.\u00a0 <\/span>She then showed everyone her ring Adam had given her.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam told everyone how it was a collaboration between him and Jason to get the ring to Nantucket.<\/span><\/p>\n

David handed a card from him, Rebecca, and the girls to Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica opened the card, and it contained birthday wishes from each of them with the girls signing their names in five-year-old fashion along with Rebecca signing for her and David.\u00a0 <\/span>A gift certificate was included from a luxurious day spa in Carson City for Jessica to enjoy at her leisure.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica thanked everyone for their presents and birthday wishes.\u00a0 <\/span>She said it was the best birthday she could have wished for.<\/span><\/p>\n

The twins were getting anxious and wanted some cake so Eva spoke up and said, \u201cI want some cake!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Embarrassed by her daughter\u2019s outburst, Rebecca yelled, \u201cEVA!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Everyone burst out in laughter.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said, \u201cI\u2019m sorry, Honey, we adults just aren\u2019t moving fast enough are we?\u00a0 <\/span>Come here, and help me cut the cake.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ava came over to sit with Jessica and cut the cake.\u00a0 <\/span>Her sister didn\u2019t want to be left out so she came to her and said, \u201cI wanna come, too!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Both girls came and symbolically helped Jessica cut her cake, while Rebecca scooped ice cream onto the plates and Jillian handed one to everybody.<\/span><\/p>\n

After everyone had enjoyed cake and ice cream, Rebecca cleared the dishes.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica offered to help clean up, but Rebecca nor David would hear of it. <\/span><\/p>\n

Once the dishes were done, David took the twins to get ready for bed, much to their protest. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSee what you have to look forward to when you two get married?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Rebecca laughed.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cChildren are wonderful, and I\u2019m blessed to have my girls, even when they\u2019re little terrors like tonight.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna grabbed Jason\u2019s hand and smiled lovingly at him.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWe\u2019re looking forward to starting a family one day.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, and we\u2019ll be able to spoil our grandkids rotten and send them home to you!\u00a0 <\/span>Just like Poppy used to do with you kids.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow is Ben, Adam?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Rebecca asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s hanging in there.\u00a0 <\/span>He\u2019s had his share of ups and downs, medically speaking.\u00a0 <\/span>He sends his love to everyone.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTell him I said hello and give him a big kiss and hug for me.\u00a0 <\/span>Tell him we\u2019re thinking about him and wish him well.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI will!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

Everyone was looking tired so they decided to call it an early night since they had gotten up so early.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica hugged and kissed each of her children as well as Brianna and thanked them for her gift.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam hugged Rebecca and thanked her for getting the birthday cake.\u00a0 <\/span>She winked at Adam and told him no problem, it was her pleasure. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica came over and joined them, placing her arm around Adam\u2019s waist, she, too, thanked Rebecca for the lovely gift and the birthday cake.\u00a0 <\/span>She and Adam wished Rebecca a good night and walked arm and arm back to their bedroom.\u00a0 <\/span>Once in their room, Adam took Jessica into his arms and told her he was sorry for disappointing her by not having something planned himself.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica kissed him and again apologized for not being more considerate of him and acting like a selfish child.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stripped down to his boxers and climbed in bed.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica put on her pajama shorts set and climbed in next to him.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam put his hand on Jessica\u2019s stomach and moved his hand up under her shirt and was rubbing her stomach.\u00a0 <\/span>He leaned over to kiss her and cupped his hand over her breast.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, not tonight!\u00a0 <\/span>Not in your ex-girlfriend\u2019s home!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica objected as Adam started to kiss her on her neck.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stopped and looked at Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWhat?\u00a0 <\/span>What am I doing that\u2019s making you protest?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFondling my breast, Mr. Cartwright?\u00a0 <\/span>You trying to get me all worked up so I\u2019ll give in to you!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt’s your birthday.\u00a0 <\/span>Is there something wrong with wanting to make love to you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt just doesn\u2019t feel right here in Rebecca\u2019s home, Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam let out a heavy sigh.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Please understand how I feel.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI get it, Jess,\u201d he said as he leaned over to give her a kiss.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica then snuggled into Adam\u2019s arms and laid her head on his chest.\u00a0 <\/span>She put her hand on his chest and let out a sigh of contentment herself.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI feel safe in your arms; I could lay in them forever.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Being more tired than he realized, Adam closed his eyes and enjoyed feeling his wife next to him.\u00a0 <\/span>He let out another small sigh and was asleep in no time.<\/span><\/p>\n

The next few days were spent on the beach, playing in the surf and the girls getting a golden tan. Adam and boys had played another round of golf before the Cartwrights and Brianna bid farewell to Rebecca, David, and the twins.<\/span><\/p>\n

As they called the announcement for the ferry boarding, Jessica, the girls, Jason and Brianna all hugged and shook hands with Rebecca, David, and the twins.\u00a0 <\/span>After the others had started to board the ferry, Jessica stepped toward the loading dock to give Adam a few moments with David and then he also stepped away to give Rebecca and Adam a few minutes alone.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Rebecca hugged each other tightly for a few moments, both not saying anything, but just feeling the warmth of each other\u2019s embrace.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam was the first to speak.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s been great seeing you again.\u00a0 <\/span>Your daughters are beautiful.\u00a0 <\/span>I know you and Dave are proud of them.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re a great mother, too.\u00a0 <\/span>I knew you always would be.<\/span><\/p>\n

Rebecca pulled away, looked at Adam and placed her hand on his cheek.\u00a0 <\/span>Tears filled her eyes as she thanked him for coming and thanked him for the lovely compliments about her children.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJessica and the kids make you happy, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>I can tell in your eyes\u00a0and in\u00a0your body language.\u00a0 <\/span>Even when you had a little spat the other day with Jessica, the\u00a0love\u00a0you have for her was\u00a0very evident.\u00a0 <\/span>I love you so much, my friend.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m glad our lives have turned out the way they did. I\u2019m so much richer for having you as a dear friend.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Tears filled Adam\u2019s eyes as he pulled Rebecca into his embrace again. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, too, woman.\u00a0 <\/span>You tell that husband of yours, he always better\u00a0take care of you like the amazing woman\u00a0you are, or he\u2019ll have me to answer to.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Rebecca kissed Adam\u2019s cheek and broke their embrace wiping the falling tear from Adam\u2019s cheek.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou go now.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica is waiting for you.\u00a0 <\/span>Let\u2019s keep in touch and not let another ten years go by before we see each other again.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI won\u2019t let it, and you better not either.\u00a0 You know we<\/span>\u00a0have a big ranch.\u00a0 <\/span>You and Dave need to plan a vacation with us next time. \u00a0We have plenty\u00a0of room for everyone, the\u00a0girls can go horseback riding, we can take our\u00a0boat on the lake, it’ll be a great vacation for all of us.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt sounds like a marvelous trip.\u00a0 <\/span>Let\u2019s plan on it next summer.\u00a0 <\/span>The girls will be a little older, too.\u00a0 <\/span>I can look into getting them riding lessons when we get home so they\u2019ll enjoy themselves.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The two hugged each other again, and Adam headed toward the ferry.\u00a0 <\/span>When he reached Jessica, he took her into his arm and kissed her on the cheek.\u00a0 <\/span>The two turned around and waved at Rebecca and David, who had also joined his wife with their two girls.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam and Jessica turned around and joined the others on the ferry.<\/span><\/p>\n

The hour long trip back to Hyannis was an enjoyable journey.\u00a0 <\/span>The girls played cards while Jessica read a book and Jason and Adam talked about the upcoming school year and the classes that Jason was going to take. <\/span><\/p>\n

Before they knew it, they were back in Hyannis gathering their luggage and catching the shuttle to the parking lot where their rental SUV was parked.\u00a0 <\/span>After paying the parking, the Cartwrights and Brianna headed back to Cambridge where they arrived shortly before 11:00 PM.\u00a0 <\/span>Everyone had fallen asleep in the car except for Adam, who was driving, and Jason, who was sitting in the front passenger seat keeping him company. <\/span><\/p>\n

When they arrived back at Jason\u2019s apartment, they all took showers and went straight to bed as their flight back to Nevada left early the next morning.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason and Brianna rode with the family back to the rental car return.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam checked in the car as the rest of the family emptied suitcases from the back of the SUV and loaded them into the rental car shuttle back to the airport.\u00a0 <\/span>Everyone piled in the van, and they drove to the terminal.\u00a0 <\/span>Once they checked their bags, and the boarding passes printed, everyone headed to security where the family said their goodbyes to Jason and Brianna.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason hugged his sisters first while Jessica gave Brianna a hug.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam shook his son\u2019s hand and then pulled him in for a big fatherly bear hug.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks for everything, Son.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s been wonderful sharing these last few weeks with you.\u00a0 <\/span>Be good to Brianna, you understand me?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo worries there, Dad.\u00a0 <\/span>I love her almost as much as you love Mom.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam pulled back and smiled at his son\u2019s beaming face.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cAlmost as much?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason smiled and laughed at his father\u2019s grin.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cDad, I don\u2019t think any person can love another the way you and Mom love each other.\u00a0 <\/span>God broke the mold when he made you two.\u00a0 <\/span>Em, Jill, and I are very lucky to have you and Mom as our parents.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam took his son back into his embrace and thanked him again. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOut of our love, we had you and your two sisters.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019re the lucky ones, Jason.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

After Adam and Jason had finished their goodbyes, Adam went to Brianna and Jessica to Jason.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll take good care of your son, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>I look forward to being a part of this family very soon,\u201d Brianna said trying to hold back the tears with her future father-in-law.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou already are a part of this family, Brianna.\u00a0 <\/span>You stole all of our hearts the first time we met you last Christmas.\u00a0 <\/span>Our son is the lucky one to have found you, and you want to be a part of his life.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna pulled back and gave Adam a light kiss on the cheek.\u00a0 <\/span>Tears filled her eyes as she said, \u201cThank you, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>I do love him more than life itself.\u00a0 <\/span>I hope I can be the wife Jessica is to you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam pulled Brianna back into his embrace and hugged her tightly again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMom, I\u2019m going to miss you.\u00a0 <\/span>Take care of Dad and the girls.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll be in touch about wedding plans.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, my baby boy.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m going to miss you so much,\u201d Jessica sobbed as she hugged her son. <\/span><\/p>\n

Hearing Jessica\u2019s weeping, made tears come to Jason\u2019s eyes.\u00a0 <\/span>He loved his mother so much, and it was hard for him to let her go.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going to miss you, too, Mom.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019re just a phone call away.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll be home for Thanksgiving.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s not that far away.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Honey.\u00a0 <\/span>I just can\u2019t believe my baby boy is all grown up into such a handsome man.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI hope I\u2019ve made you proud, Mom,\u201d Jason said as he fought back the tears.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica pulled back and placed both her hands on her son\u2019s face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cProud?\u00a0 <\/span>Are you kidding me?\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m beaming with pride, Honey!\u00a0 <\/span>Look at you.\u00a0 <\/span>So handsome and strong.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re doing well in school, and you have a new future bride.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m so very proud of you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

She stood there a few moments holding her son\u2019s face and staring at him in his eyes.\u00a0 <\/span>She then took him back into her embrace and hugged him tightly again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>You and Brianna be good to each other, you hear me?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI will, Mom.\u00a0 <\/span>You don\u2019t have to worry about that.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason and Jessica let go of each other, and Jessica wiped her eyes.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam took her carry on and then placed his arm around her waist.\u00a0 <\/span>The family waved goodbye as they headed for the priority security line.\u00a0 <\/span>As they reached the x-ray machines and put their belongings on the belt, they all turned around and waved one last time to Jason and Brianna before entering the terminal\u2019s secured area for ticketed passengers only.<\/span><\/p>\n

The family made their way to their gate where they boarded their flight for Dallas\/Ft. Worth with a connection to Reno.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/p>\n

After a full day of flying, the Cartwrights arrived back to their home in Carson City in the early afternoon, due to three hour time gain heading back west.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam unloaded everyone\u2019s bags and put them into each of their bedrooms.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica told the girls to unpack their bags and place their dirty clothes in the hallway where she would come around and collect them to start the massive laundry detail. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam headed into the office and checked his work emails to get caught up on them before Monday morning so he wouldn\u2019t be spending half of his day going through them.\u00a0 <\/span>When he signed in, he noticed his admin had done a good job in weeding out emails he didn\u2019t need and left the ones he did.\u00a0 <\/span>He still had a large list to sort through, but he knew they had been sorted down to only ones that needed his absolute attention upon his return.\u00a0 <\/span>He sent her a text to let her know he was back in town and to thank her for going through his email while he was gone, and he would see her first thing in the morning.<\/span><\/p>\n

After unpacking her clothes and putting her dirty clothes pile just outside her room as her mother requested, Emily came into Adam\u2019s office and spun his chair around so that she could sit in his lap.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily placed her arms around her daddy\u2019s neck and kissed him on the cheek.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam smiled at the sweet distraction by his eldest daughter and then looked at her with a curious eye.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPrincess, what do you want?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked with a smile on his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy do you always think I want something?\u00a0 <\/span>Can\u2019t a girl come sit in her daddy\u2019s lap and kiss him on the cheek without wanting something?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked at her again and said, \u201cUm, no,\u201d and then he laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, busted!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily laughed along with her father.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy, I know we just got home, but can I please see Trey?\u00a0 <\/span>I haven\u2019t seen him in two weeks, Daddy!\u00a0 <\/span>Please?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam gave his daughter a light kiss on the lips and then tweaked her nose.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cSure, Princess.\u00a0 <\/span>In fact, why don\u2019t you go check with Mommy and if she says it\u2019s okay, invite him for dinner, too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cReally, Daddy?\u00a0 <\/span>You mean it?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily said with great excitement.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam nodded his head with a huge grin on his face when he saw how happy his response made her.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily then looked at Adam with a skeptical look.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWait a minute.\u00a0 <\/span>Are you sure you\u2019re Adam Cartwright, Emily Cartwright\u2019s father?\u00a0 <\/span>I think an alien has kidnapped my Daddy, and some outer space man has assumed his role.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam laughed at his daughter\u2019s look on her face and her statement about being kidnapped. He patted his princess on her hip and gave her another kiss.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cNo, I\u2019m Adam Cartwright, your daddy, not an out space man.\u00a0 <\/span>I know you haven\u2019t seen Trey in two weeks, and you didn\u2019t spend your whole vacation on the phone with him. I\u2019m proud of you for that.\u00a0 <\/span>Now, ask Mommy if it\u2019s okay if he comes to dinner and then you can make plans for him to come over, okay?\u00a0 <\/span>Daddy needs to get back to his email.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily hugged Adam\u2019s neck again and kissed his cheek.\u00a0 <\/span>She thanked him many times over and then ran into the laundry room where Jessica was starting her first load of laundry.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy!\u00a0 <\/span>Daddy said Trey could come over tonight.\u00a0 <\/span>He said if it was okay with you, he could have dinner with us also.\u00a0 <\/span>Can he, Mommy, please?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica stood there with her hands on her hips as she finished loading the first basket of laundry into the washer.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you sure you spoke to your father about this?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily jumped up and down with excitement.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI know!\u00a0 <\/span>I asked him if he was my daddy and not some space man that had abducted him and entered his body, but he assured me he was the one and only Adam Cartwright,\u201d Emily laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica laughed at Emily\u2019s statement about her father and told her daughter if it was okay with Daddy, it was all right with her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGo get me a roasting chicken out of the freezer so I can put it water to thaw.\u00a0 <\/span>Tell Trey dinner is at 6:00 PM, but he can come over around 5:00 PM if he wants to.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily threw her arms around her mother, hugged her and kissed her, thanking her for her approval for Trey to come to dinner.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily went out into the garage to get a roasting chicken from the deep freeze while Jessica went to grab another load of laundry in her basket.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily filled the sink with water and laid the chicken in the water.\u00a0 <\/span>She ran back to her room almost knocking her mother down as she came around the corner. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEasy, Em!\u00a0 <\/span>Stop running in the house, young lady!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica scolded her daughter.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSorry, Mommy!\u00a0 <\/span>I put the chicken in water for you!\u201d she said as she continued to her room with an enthusiastic gait.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Jessica was checking the water level of the thawing chicken, Adam came into the kitchen to get a bottle of water from the fridge. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s cooking, Mom?\u201d he asked as he reached in to get the cold bottle of water.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRoast chicken and veggies with cornbread and cranberry stuffing.\u00a0 <\/span>Since Trey is coming for dinner, I\u2019ll make some brownies, and we can have some sundaes if I can convince my very handsome husband to go to the store and pick up some ice cream, hot fudge, almonds, and whipped cream.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMmmmm, that sounds yummy.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll go on one condition,\u201d Adam said, wrapping Jessica into his arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah?\u00a0 <\/span>What\u2019s that?\u201d she asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat I can eat the remaining whipped cream off your naked body tonight in bed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam Cartwright!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said, beating him in the chest lightly.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cAll you men think about is sex, sex, sex,\u201d she laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen we men have sexy wives like yourself, we can\u2019t help ourselves,\u201d he said kissing her deeply.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWoman, I love the way you taste,\u201d Adam continued as he went back for another deep kiss.<\/span><\/p>\n

The next thing the lovers knew, they heard a small clearing of the throat.\u00a0 <\/span>They turned their heads, keeping their embrace and saw their youngest daughter standing there with her suitcase that was almost as big as she was. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSorry to break up the love fest, but where do I put my suitcase?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian stood asking with a sarcastic tone.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Jessica laughed at their daughter\u2019s sense of humor.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam let go of Jessica and went over to his youngest and said, \u201cWell, why don\u2019t you leave that suitcase where it is, and come join us in our love fest!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam scooped up Jillian, and she squealed with laughter as Adam brought her to where Jessica was, and they each put their arms around each other holding Jillian between the two of them, kissing her all over her face and head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, Daddy, let me down!\u201d she screamed with delight.<\/span><\/p>\n

The three Cartwrights giggled at the fun they had, and when they let Jillian down, Adam asked her if she wanted to go to the store with him to pick up the fixings for fudge brownie sundaes Mommy wanted to make for dessert. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian jumped up and down and said, \u201cYES! YES! YES!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam told Jillian to get his keys, wallet, and phone while he put up her suitcase, and to meet him in the car.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian ran to Adam and Jessica\u2019s room to get his things while he went out into the garage and up into the attic to put away the suitcase.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian put Adam\u2019s keys, wallet, and phone in the driver\u2019s seat and climbed in the back seat and buckled her seatbelt while she waited for Adam to come back down.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam jumped in the car, and the two were off to the local market to buy the items Jessica had requested.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica ran out into the garage just as Adam was shutting the garage door but he pushed the button on the remote to stop the door from closing when he saw Jessica run outside.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI need some potatoes, too!\u201d she yelled as Adam rolled down the window and stuck his head out the window.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam waved in acknowledgment and headed down the driveway and toward the store.<\/span><\/p>\n

On the way to the grocery store, Jillian told Adam how lucky she felt to be his and Jessica\u2019s daughter.\u00a0 <\/span>She talked about some of her other friends at school who had parents who were divorced and said she felt so blessed to have both of her parents at home and very much in love. Adam assured her he was not going anywhere, and while he and Jessica had disagreements from time to time, he loved her mother, Jason, Emily and her very much, and he had made a commitment to Jessica always to put them first.\u00a0 <\/span>He wanted to reassure Jillian the love he had for her mother was unyielding, and their family would always be solid.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once they were at the store, Adam helped Jillian from the backseat, and they walked hand in hand into the store.\u00a0 <\/span>After grabbing a hand basket, they sauntered to the produce section where Adam picked up a small bag of potatoes.\u00a0 <\/span>Father and daughter headed over to the frozen food section where Adam allowed Jillian to choose the brand of vanilla ice cream to buy; she picked H\u00e4agen-Dazs Vanilla Bean.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam commended her on her fine choice, and they headed over to the aisle where they picked up the hot fudge, almonds and then to the dairy section to get the whipped cream.\u00a0 <\/span>On their way to the check-out, Jillian\u2019s eyes got enormous, and she said, \u201cDaddy, we need cherries for the top!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re right, Sweetpea!\u00a0 <\/span>A sundae wouldn\u2019t be a sundae without a proper cherry on top!\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

The two got out of line and found the aisle where the cherries were, and Jillian chose the biggest jar of cherries they had.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love cherries, Daddy!\u201d she said with a broad grin on her face.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam winked at his youngest child, \u201cDaddy does, too!\u201d he said putting his arm around her shoulder as they went back toward the check-out.<\/span><\/p>\n

After the short ride home, Adam and Jillian walked back into the house to the aroma of fresh baked brownies cooking along with the smell of a chicken roasting in the oven.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica was at the sink washing off the better dinnerware.\u00a0 <\/span>She smiled when Jillian came bouncing in telling her Mommy that Daddy allowed her to choose the ice cream and that they had also gotten a big jar of cherries.\u00a0 <\/span>She tweaked her daughter\u2019s nose and told her while she was gone, her best friend, Diana, had called and to give her a call.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian put the sack of sundae fixings on the island and ran into the other room to call Diana.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam came in with the sack of potatoes and put them on the island.\u00a0 <\/span>He started to put the ice cream and whipped cream away as he told Jessica about the conversation he and Jillian had about the divorce and how he felt he had put her mind at ease once and for all.\u00a0 <\/span>He suggested they want to have another talk with her together just to make sure she understood everything was right between them and their marriage was stronger than ever, even when they might be angry with each other and verbally express said anger from time to time.<\/span><\/p>\n

Dinner was coming together quickly when Trey arrived.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam was in the kitchen helping Jessica make the final preparations when they heard the doorbell ring.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily yelled from the front of the house, \u201cI\u2019ll get it; it\u2019s probably Trey.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam started setting the table as Jessica was making lemonade for the kids and pulling out a bottle of wine for her and Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam unwrapped the chicken on the platter Jessica had foil tented to keep warm and began carving it up before placing it on the table. <\/span><\/p>\n

Emily answered the door, and Trey was indeed on the other side. \u00a0 <\/span>He had two bouquets of flowers; a dozen red roses in a vase for Emily, and a bouquet of assorted exotic flowers for Jessica.<\/span><\/p>\n

When Emily opened the door, she gasped loudly at the beautiful flowers.\u00a0 <\/span>She took them from Trey and sat them down on a table in the front hall next to the door.\u00a0 <\/span>Once his hands were free, he took Emily into his arms and gave her a hug.\u00a0 <\/span>He looked around to see if anyone was around and when he realized that they were alone, he bent down and kissed her deeply.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve missed you so much.\u00a0 <\/span>Welcome home, Baby.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily melted in Trey\u2019s arms; she kissed his tender lips.\u00a0 <\/span>She held him tight and told him how much she had missed his hugs and kisses while she was away and how she couldn\u2019t wait to return to the security of his arms and sweetness of his lips.<\/span><\/p>\n

After their reunion, Emily picked up her vase of flowers and Trey picked up the bouquet for Jessica and they walked back toward the kitchen and dining room. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, Daddy, Trey is here!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily said as she and Trey walked into the kitchen.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Trey, it\u2019s good to see you again.\u00a0 <\/span>Can we get you something to drink?\u00a0 <\/span>Dinner\u2019s almost ready,\u201d Jessica said as she was loading up the dishwasher with some of the dirty dishes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I\u2019m fine right now, Ma\u2019am, thank you, though.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, Trey brought these beautiful flowers for you, and look at the ones he brought for me! Aren\u2019t they to die for?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Trey, thank you!\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re too sweet.\u00a0 <\/span>Honey, your roses are just beautiful!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica then looked at Trey and smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cVery nice touch, Trey!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy, aren\u2019t these just the most beautiful flowers you\u2019ve ever seen?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily said as she was smelling the delicate flowers.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam came over to shake Trey\u2019s hand and inspect the lovely bouquet.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019re beautiful, Princess, just like you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Daddy!\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re embarrassing me!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily blushed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Trey laughed and put his arm around Emily\u2019s waist.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHe\u2019s just stating a fact, pretty lady,\u201d Trey agreed with Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cStop!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily protested with laughter in her voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEm, Honey, can you call your sister, please?\u00a0 <\/span>Dinner\u2019s ready,\u201d Jessica asked as she brought the last of the veggies to the table.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily took Trey by the hand, and they went to get Jillian from the family room where she was chatting with Diana on the phone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome on, Jill; dinner\u2019s ready.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Trey!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian said as she jumped up and skipped to where Emily and Trey were waiting for her.<\/span><\/p>\n

The three kids came to the table, and everyone sat down to enjoy dinner. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMrs. Cartwright, you are an excellent cook, Ma\u2019am.\u00a0 <\/span>I appreciate you inviting me to dinner tonight,\u201d Trey said as he cut his chicken.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank Mr. Cartwright,\u201d Jessica explained.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHe was the one who told Emily to have you over tonight.\u00a0 <\/span>I was informed after the fact, which, by the way, I thought was a splendid idea.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd Mommy made brownies for dessert, too!\u00a0 <\/span>Daddy and I went and got ice cream, hot fudge, whipped cream, cherries and almonds to put on top,\u201d Jillian explained proudly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Trey smiled at Jillian.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWhy thank you! brownie fudge sundaes are my favorite dessert!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI like them, too, Trey!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian bounced in her chair with excitement.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJillian, eat your dinner, Sweetpea, if you want to have a sundae, okay?\u201d Adam said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, Daddy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Trying to continue the conversation, Trey asked about everyone\u2019s vacation back east.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI trust everyone had a great vacation in Massachusetts?\u00a0 <\/span>Emily told me you and Mrs. Cartwright went to Harvard, and aside from you and Jason going to Mass when he started at M.I.T., you hadn\u2019t had a chance to get back.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe had an excellent time,\u201d Adam began.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWe flew into Boston and stayed at Jason\u2019s apartment for several days and visited the M.I.T. campus so the girls and my wife could see where Jason attends school.\u00a0 <\/span>We then went to Boston and took the Duck Tour, which everyone enjoyed…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe Duck Tour was the best!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily interrupted.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam continued, \u201cfrom the Duck Tour, we decided on the things we would like to get a closer look at and did those by foot the next day.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica then picked up on the next stage of the vacation.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWe left Cambridge and stopped at the cemetery and visited Adam\u2019s grandfather’s and mother’s graves.\u00a0 <\/span>We then headed down to Cape Cod for a few days.\u00a0 <\/span>Our son\u2019s girlfriend…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWho is now his fianc\u00e9e, Jason proposed to her at Cape Cod,\u201d Emily interrupted again.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica smiled at her daughter\u2019s enthusiasm at the vacation, so she did not correct her interrupting a second time, \u201cYes, Jason\u2019s fianc\u00e9e, Brianna\u2019s mother\u2019s brother, is the manager of a beautiful resort there, and we were his guest for a few days.\u00a0 <\/span>We met Brianna\u2019s parents there, and we all had an amazing time.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily met some boys at the pool!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian added her two cents.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJillian!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam scolded.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cThat\u2019s for Emily to tell Trey about, not you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSorry, Daddy,\u201d Jillian said pouting with her head down.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s okay, Peanut.\u00a0 <\/span>I was planning to tell Trey about them tonight.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTwo guys were at the pool one day when me, Mommy, Daddy, and Jillian went swimming.\u00a0 <\/span>They were from Georgia, I think.\u00a0 <\/span>They were nice.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason, Brie, Jillie, and I met them at a beach party one night.\u00a0 <\/span>I told them I had a boyfriend back home.\u00a0 <\/span>They were bummed about that, but said you were a lucky guy,\u201d Emily grinned as she grabbed Trey\u2019s hand under the table. <\/span><\/p>\n

Trey seemed a bit uncomfortable about the boys whom Emily met on the trip, but didn\u2019t say anything.\u00a0 <\/span>He planned to talk to her later about it when they were alone.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam picked up on the last leg of the trip, their trip to Nantucket.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cAfter we said our goodbyes to Brianna\u2019s family, we took the ferry over to Nantucket.\u00a0 <\/span>A very dear friend of mine and her husband own a home on the Island, and we visited them for a few days.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica\u2019s birthday was during this time and Rebecca, my dear friend, took the girls to Martha\u2019s Vineyard for the day, and Jason, Dave, her husband, and I played golf.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMartha\u2019s Vineyard was great!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily picked up on the story.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWe took a tour of the island, and Dr. Rebecca took us to a quaint tavern for lunch, and the food was delicious!\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy bought us some clothes, a T-shirt, and sweatshirt from Martha\u2019s Vineyard, and she picked some clothes up for Jason and Daddy, too!\u00a0 <\/span>We teased we should have stopped in one of the jewelry stores and each bought an expensive piece of jewelry compliments of Daddy and his American Express, but Mommy said we better not because she didn\u2019t want to be sleeping on the beach that night.\u00a0 <\/span>We had a good laugh about it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The table erupted in laughter.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam smiled and said, \u201cUm, you never told me about that part of the trip.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I didn\u2019t mention that one, Honey?\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sorry!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica looked all innocent and then busted out in laughter again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, you just wait, Mrs. Cartwright.\u00a0 <\/span>You just wait,\u201d Adam grinned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh brother, here they go again,\u201d Emily sighed.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cYou have to excuse Mommy and Daddy.\u00a0 <\/span>They are still on their honeymoon, eleven years later.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think it\u2019s great!\u00a0 <\/span>Maybe if my mother and father had kept their marriage alive like your parents do, they might still be married today,\u201d Trey commented.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Trey!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said smugly, winking at her daughter.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cAdam and I feel it\u2019s important to show our children we love each other as much as we love them.\u00a0 <\/span>They do get embarrassed at times, but we love to see them squirm,\u201d Jessica laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut Mommy! you and Daddy take it to the extreme sometimes!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily argued.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome on, Princess. You\u2019re going to make Trey think we have sex in front of you and Jillian,\u201d Adam winked at Jessica.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy, stop!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily cried in embarrassment.<\/span><\/p>\n

Trey, Adam, and Jessica started laughing uncontrollably.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily punched Trey in the arm lightly. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re siding with my parents, Trey?\u201d she whined.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Babe, I just think it\u2019s cute how you get worked up over something so beautiful.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019ve got great, hip parents.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Trey looked at Adam and Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cMy mother and stepfather are great parents, but they are of the school where certain things are never spoken about or shown in public.\u00a0 <\/span>I mean my parents will hold hands, but I never see them hug or kiss in front of me.\u00a0 <\/span>This kind of conversation is strictly taboo in our house.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s sad.\u00a0 <\/span>I would love to see my parents be open with their love.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s probably one of the reasons why my mother and father divorced.\u00a0 <\/span>My dad is very extroverted and wanted to show his passion for my mother around our family, but my mom wasn\u2019t comfortable showing her love for my dad in public. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMom, she feels everything has its place.\u00a0 <\/span>You keep your acts of love in the bedroom.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe believe our children need to know their parents love each other.\u00a0 <\/span>For several years, Adam and I were divorced.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian was not born yet, so it was just Emily and Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>We tried to show a unified front when the kids were present, but it was hard at times, and we didn\u2019t always succeed. We scared the kids at times, and we will never be able to take that back.\u00a0 <\/span>When we remarried, we always vowed to put each other first and openly show our love for one another with our children so they would always feel happy and secure.\u00a0 <\/span>We wanted them to know we loved them as much as we loved each other.\u00a0 <\/span>Yes, at times we embarrass them; sometimes we do it on purpose to watch them squirm,\u201d Jessica took her attention from Trey and looked at Emily, winking at her. \u201cbut we never cross the line of voyeurism or unhealthy behavior.\u00a0 <\/span>We want our children to grow up and be well rounded, secure, loving individuals.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason is the first, and we see a lot of us in him and Brianna.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo we ever!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian rolled her eyes and smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cO-M-G!\u201d Emily agreed.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cJason is just like Mom and Dad, Trey.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily laughed as she put her finger in her mouth as to signal she was gagging.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, who\u2019s ready for ice cream sundaes?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cME!\u00a0 <\/span>I am!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian raised her hand and bounced in her chair again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think you cleaned your plate well enough, baby girl,\u201d Jessica said as she looked at Jillian\u2019s plate.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe eats like a bird when it comes to real food, but she loves her sweets,\u201d Emily commented to Trey.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll help you clear the table, Mrs. Cartwright,\u201d Trey offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, no, honey.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re our guest tonight.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam will give me a hand, won\u2019t you, Babe?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, yeah, sure!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam said as he got up and began picking up the plates and glasses.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, can I help you make the ice cream sundaes?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure, baby girl.\u00a0 <\/span>Let Mommy and Daddy clear the dishes first.\u00a0 <\/span>Why don\u2019t you come help Daddy and me in the kitchen so Trey and Emily can go into the living room and talk while we finish up the dishes and get dessert ready.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Mommy,\u201d Emily said, as she and Trey got up and held hands as they walked into the front formal living room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, why do you want me to help with the dishes?\u00a0 <\/span>When I cut my hand, Daddy said he didn\u2019t want me carrying any more dishes that could break!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian asked with a quizzical look on her face.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam picked Jillian up and hugged her for her innocence. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSweetpea, Mommy and Daddy want you to help us so Emily and Trey can have some time alone,\u201d Adam said as he winked at his youngest child.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOoooooh!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian grinned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI tell you what, you can do to help Mommy.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll hand you the forks and knives, and you can place them in the dishwasher for me, okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, Mommy!\u00a0 <\/span>I can help!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

While Jessica rinsed the dishes and handed the forks and knives to Jillian to place in the utensil basket, Adam got the sundae glasses down and started cutting the brownies.\u00a0 <\/span>He also got the ice cream out so it could soften up a bit.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou can either use the double boiler to heat the hot fudge, or you can put some in a bowl and put it in the microwave.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019ll have to nuke it for a few seconds at a time so it won\u2019t burn if you do the microwave, Adam,\u201d Jessica said as she was placing the glasses on the top rack.<\/span><\/p>\n

In the living room, Emily was showing Trey the vacation pictures on the camera when Jillian came running in and telling them the sundaes were ready.\u00a0 <\/span>They had just gotten to the Cape Cod pictures when Jillian came to call them back to the table.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI want to hear more about the boys you met in Cape Cod after dessert, Emmy,\u201d Trey said as they got up and headed back into the dining room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot a whole lot to tell, really,\u201d Emily tried to make light of her sister busting her about the two boys.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI still want to hear about them,\u201d Trey insisted again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJealous are we?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily sarcastically asked as she put her arm through Trey\u2019s and laid her head on his shoulder.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe a little,\u201d Trey winked as they entered the dining room.<\/span><\/p>\n

Everyone sat back down and enjoyed their sundaes.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam suggested the next time the family headed up to the Ponderosa, Trey might enjoy coming with them to go to the lake or horseback riding.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe always go up for Labor Day weekend and have a big BBQ,\u201d Jessica noted.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWe would love for you to join us.\u00a0 <\/span>We have a guest bedroom you can stay in if you like.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m not sure if Jason and Brie will be able to join us because they both have jobs.\u00a0 <\/span>If they can come, we can put them in the guest room, and you can sleep in Jason\u2019s room.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI wanna go see Poppy, Mommy,\u201d Jillian said as she at her sundae getting chocolate all over her face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll give him a call tomorrow to see how he\u2019s feeling.\u00a0 <\/span>If he\u2019s up to it, we\u2019ll drive up there tomorrow afternoon, Okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily clapped and bounced in her chair.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cCan you go, too, Daddy?\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Sweetpea, Daddy\u2019s got to get back to work.\u00a0 <\/span>I think Heather is ready for me to get back to the office.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDarn,\u201d Jillian\u2019s face went long with disappointment. <\/span><\/p>\n

After everyone had finished dessert, Emily asked if it was okay to watch a movie in the family room.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam gave his consent and the two teenagers invited Jillian to watch the movie with them.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you want to watch, Em?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow about Meet the Fockers<\/strong><\/em>?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I like that movie,\u201d Trey commented.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the kids went into the family room to put on the video, Adam and Jessica cleaned up the dessert dishes and the rest of the kitchen. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica was rinsing the dishes as Adam was putting away the hot fudge, almonds, cherries, and whipped cream.\u00a0 <\/span>He came over to Jessica and wrapped his arms around her and began to kiss her neck.\u00a0 <\/span>He held up the whipped cream and said, \u201cShall we take this to our bedroom tonight?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Adam, stop!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica laughed wriggling out of his embrace.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou taste so good, but oh what fun we could have with the rest of this can,\u201d Adam continued to put the items back in the refrigerator. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, our daughter has a boy over, and we\u2019re having sex in our bedroom. Nice thought, Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll tell Emily we\u2019re going to bed, and when the movie\u2019s over, Trey will need to go home.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s almost 10:00 PM now.\u00a0 <\/span>By the time the movie\u2019s over, it\u2019ll be 11:30 P.M. and it will be time for him to leave to be home by his curfew.\u00a0 <\/span>You always tell me I need to give a little more leeway where Emily and boys are concerned.\u00a0 <\/span>When I do, you\u2019re complaining.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t get it!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not complaining, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>I just don\u2019t think it\u2019s appropriate we\u2019re having sex in our bedroom when our daughter has a boy over, that\u2019s all I\u2019m saying,\u201d Jessica said as she put the last few dishes in the dishwasher, added the detergent, and closed it up.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam turned out the light to the kitchen, and they headed back toward the family room.\u00a0 <\/span>They called Emily to the door and told her after the movie, she would need to say goodnight to Trey and head to bed herself.\u00a0 <\/span>She agreed, kissed her Daddy and Mommy goodnight, and they headed back to their bedroom.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica took a shower while Adam checked a few messages on his iPhone.\u00a0 <\/span>After Jessica had got out, Adam got in and showered quickly.\u00a0 <\/span>When he came into the bedroom, Jessica was in a short silk nightgown and turning down the bed.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam came up behind her and started to put his hands on her gown and tug at her panties.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, stop!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica protested.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat, Jess?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam was frustrated.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cYou\u2019ve barely allowed me to touch you since Cape Cod.\u00a0 <\/span>I want to make love to my wife, show her how much I love her, but it seems you don\u2019t want to show me the same.\u00a0 <\/span>What gives?\u00a0 <\/span>Was it seeing Rebecca again?\u00a0 <\/span>I thought your insecurities about her were in the past?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica whipped around and scowled at Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cThis has NOTHING to do with Rebecca, Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThen what?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam inquired as he pulled the towel around his waist and walked over to the chest of drawers to pull out a pair of boxers to put on since he felt Jessica was not in the mood to be playful in bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica remained silent, but the tears began to flow down her cheeks.\u00a0 <\/span>She hurriedly pulled back the comforter and got the sleeping pillows from the closet.\u00a0 <\/span>Hearing the sniffles from Jessica trying to hold back her emotions, Adam turned to her and saw she was wiping away tears.\u00a0 <\/span>He stopped her and took the pillows from her hands and threw the pillows on the bed and took his wife into his arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJess?\u00a0 <\/span>What is it?\u00a0 <\/span>Why are you crying?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam wiped away the free flowing tears.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica was too emotional to speak.\u00a0 <\/span>She simply buried her face in Adam\u2019s chest.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam held his wife and his face filled with concern.\u00a0 <\/span>Suddenly, making love to his wife didn\u2019t matter anymore, only consoling her and showing his love through his embrace mattered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJess, talk to me.\u00a0 <\/span>What has you so upset that you\u2019re crying this way?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked as he caressed her back.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica finally was able to grab hold of her emotions.\u00a0 <\/span>She looked up at Adam and said, \u201cIt\u2019s not that I don\u2019t want to make love to you, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>There\u2019s nothing more in this world\u00a0 <\/span>I want than to be close to you, but over the months since my surgery, intercourse has become more and more difficult for me.\u00a0 <\/span>Dr. McIntyre told me this might be the case.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t create as much natural lubricant anymore, and, well, it hurts.\u00a0 <\/span>When we were on Cape Cod, it was so painful, I wanted to cry, but I held it in for you.\u00a0 <\/span>I didn\u2019t want to worry you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBabe!\u00a0 <\/span>Why didn\u2019t you tell me?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam caressed his wife\u2019s wet cheek.<\/span><\/p>\n

The tears started to flow again.\u00a0 <\/span>How could Jessica put into words what she was feeling? <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was afraid to, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>I so damned angry at all of this.\u00a0 <\/span>I beat cancer, but it took a part of me with it!\u00a0 <\/span>I can\u2019t even make love to my husband anymore without it hurting me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJessica, I don\u2019t understand why you felt you couldn\u2019t tell me you\u2019ve been having pain all this time.\u00a0 <\/span>What did Dr. McIntyre suggest?<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe said to use water based lubricants and jellies, but take away from the spontaneity of making love.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot unless we let it, Babe.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s better than the alternative, don\u2019t you think?\u00a0 <\/span>Besides, we can incorporate it into foreplay,\u201d was Adam\u2019s response.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t think I\u2019m less of a woman? Jessica asked.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cDuring foreplay, my vagina usually gets very wet.”<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJess, I love you for you.\u00a0 <\/span>I love your body and how it reacts to my touch.\u00a0 <\/span>Okay, so you don\u2019t have the ability to prepare yourself naturally for intercourse anymore.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s fine; I still love you, and I don\u2019t think any less of you.\u00a0 <\/span>We have a workaround and, it\u2019ll be a lot of fun lubing you up.\u00a0 <\/span>Besides, we can get some of that stuff they show on TV, and we can make fireworks of our own,\u201d Adam winked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica hit Adam in the chest.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWe don\u2019t need that much help, Mister.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam took Jessica\u2019s hand and placed it on his hard groin.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cThis is what you do to me, Madam.\u00a0 <\/span>After twenty plus years of loving you, you still cause this.\u00a0 <\/span>My desire for you is as strong today as it was when we first made love on Emily\u2019s fifth birthday and created Jillian.\u00a0 <\/span>I love you, Mrs. Cartwright.\u00a0 <\/span>Even when the day comes that I can\u2019t get it up anymore, I\u2019ll still want to hold you and make love to you in a different way.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI hope it doesn\u2019t happen for a very long time,\u201d Jessica added.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, there\u2019s always KY for you and Viagra for me!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam grinned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Adam,\u201d Jessica blushed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica wrapped her arms around Adam\u2019s waist.\u00a0 <\/span>She ran her fingernails up his spine and looked lovingly into his eyes. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI do love you, you know it?\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t know what I did to deserve such an amazing man, husband, and father, but I thank God every day he blessed me with you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam scooped his wife into his arms and brought her over to the bed, gently laid her down and then laid down next to her.\u00a0 <\/span>He placed his hand on her cheek and kissed her gently and lovingly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe answered my prayers.\u00a0 <\/span>That\u2019s why we\u2019re together.\u00a0 <\/span>I prayed for an incredibly beautiful, loving life partner, and he answered my prayers with you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, too, Jess.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica turned toward Adam and placed her hand on Adam\u2019s hard groin. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWould you like me to take care of this orally, Babe?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica gently ran her hand up and down Adam\u2019s hard penis protruding through his silk boxers.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked adoringly into Jessica\u2019s eyes.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201c I\u2019m content just to hold and caress you tonight.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The two got up, put their pillows at the head of their bed.\u00a0 <\/span>They snuggled in under the covers and laid in each other\u2019s arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s good to be home, Adam,\u201d Jessica said, running her fingers through Adam\u2019s salt and pepper chest hair.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Jess, it\u2019s good to be home,\u201d was his reply.<\/span><\/p>\n

Martha’s Vineyard information courtesy of Martha’s Vineyard Chamber of Commerce. \u00a0Nantucket information\u00a0from my personal trip to the island.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

Chapter Thirteen<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

**Reader warning…You will need tissues** \u00a0<\/span><\/em>:'(<\/span><\/p>\n

Life was getting back to normal for the Nevada Cartwrights.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam was back to work, and Jessica was getting the house back in order after their extended vacation back east.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian\u2019s birthday was fast approaching, and Jessica was looking into places to have her eleventh birthday party.<\/span><\/p>\n

It was late afternoon, and Jessica was in the kitchen adding vegetables to the roast she was slow cooking in the crockpot when Jillian came into the kitchen to give Jessica her list of friends she wanted to invite to her birthday party.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, I want to have a slumber party after we come home from American Girl.\u00a0 <\/span>Can I please?\u201d was Jillian\u2019s request.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBaby Girl, I don\u2019t think a slumber party is a good idea.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ve only been home from Boston for a week now, and I don\u2019t want to have a bunch of girls over spending the night.\u00a0 <\/span>I tell you what, how about we have the party at American Girl, and you can invite Diana and Bethany to spend the night.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian was already starting to feel the effects of puberty and wasn\u2019t happy with her mother\u2019s alternative decision.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI want a slumber party, Mommy!\u201d she cried.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cDiana\u2019s mommy let her have a slumber party, and it wasn\u2019t even her birthday!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJillian, Daddy and I are allowing you to have a birthday party at American Girl, and I\u2019ve said you can invite Diana and Bethany to spend the night afterward.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019re going to be going up to Poppy\u2019s house the next morning to celebrate your birthday with him.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t want you up all hours of the night and not be rested for the next day.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, please!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian started to throw a tantrum.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJillian Alexis!\u00a0 <\/span>Stop crying!\u00a0 <\/span>If you don\u2019t, you won\u2019t even have a party at American Girl!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re not fair, Mommy.\u00a0 <\/span>Whenever Emily wants something, she gets it.\u00a0 <\/span>All she has to do is pout or cry, and you give her whatever she wants!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian argued.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m warning you, young lady, you\u2019d better stop this behavior right now, or there will be no girls spending the night at all, much less a party,\u201d Jessica went back to peeling the carrots and potatoes for dinner.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, please!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian cried harder, but Jessica ignored her tantrum.\u00a0 <\/span>She had given Jillian an alternative that would be acceptable to her, and if Jillian didn\u2019t like it, she could take it or leave it.<\/span><\/p>\n

When Jillian saw her crying fit was not getting her anywhere, she yelled, \u201cI HATE YOU, MOMMY!\u201d and ran to her room crying.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJillian! come back here now, young lady!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica yelled to no avail.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica broke down in tears, throwing the potato she was peeling into the sink along with the peeler.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam walked through the door just as Jessica had yelled for Jillian to come back.\u00a0 <\/span>He walked over to the island and placed his briefcase on the counter with his jacket.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s going on here?\u201d was Adam\u2019s philosophical question to Jessica\u2019s demeanor.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour daughter, Adam, is what\u2019s the matter.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy daughter?\u00a0 <\/span>Which one of my<\/em> daughters?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJillian.\u00a0 <\/span>She wants to have a slumber party for her birthday after we go to American Girl for the party.\u00a0 <\/span>I told her no.\u00a0 <\/span>I gave her an alternative plan.\u00a0 <\/span>I told her she could invite the girls to the party and then Diana and Bethany could come and spend the night.\u00a0 <\/span>She didn\u2019t want that, she wanted it her way.\u00a0 <\/span>When I told her no, she threw a tantrum like a two-year-old.\u00a0 <\/span>I threatened to not have any party for her,\u201d Jessica began to cry. \u201cbut she continued on, telling me that Emily gets everything she wants, all she has to do is cry and pout, and we give in to her.\u00a0 <\/span>I finally decided to ignore her, and she continued on.\u00a0 <\/span>She then screamed she hated me and ran back to her room and slammed the door.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd is there a reason you don\u2019t want her to have a slumber party, after what do you call it? American Girl?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam!\u00a0 <\/span>I can\u2019t believe you are entertaining the thought of allowing her to have a slumber party after the way she just acted!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam threw up his hands saying, \u201cI\u2019m not entertaining anything at the moment except a vigorous discussion with our daughter on the proper way to speak to her mother, but I need to have the facts straight as they happened first,\u201d he said as he untied his already loosened tie.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s been begging me for a party at American Girl ever since they opened a store at the Galleria Mall in Carson.\u00a0 <\/span>I told her we would look into it after we got home from vacation.\u00a0 <\/span>I looked into it earlier this week and was able to secure a party in two weeks for fifteen of her friends.\u00a0 <\/span>Today, she comes to me with the list of girls and now she wants to have a slumber party on top of everything else.\u00a0 <\/span>As if the American Girl party wasn\u2019t enough!\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m telling you, Adam, I don\u2019t know how I\u2019m going to deal with two teenagers in the house!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe way I\u2019ve been dealing with three females in the house all these years,\u201d Adam winked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhatever!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica laughed as she swatted Adam with her dish towel.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cGo talk to your daughter.\u00a0 <\/span>She needs to be taught a lesson on respect of her mother.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam sighed, picked up his briefcase, suit jacket and headed toward the back of the house.\u00a0 <\/span>He stopped off at his office and put his briefcase on the desk.\u00a0 <\/span>He then went back to his and Jessica\u2019s bedroom and hung up his jacket and tie. <\/span><\/p>\n

He headed back up the hall around the corner to Jillian\u2019s room.\u00a0 <\/span>He could hear her crying and mouthing some not so nice things about her mother.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam knocked on the door and entered the room.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian was on the floor playing with her Barbies when she saw her father enter the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you want, Daddy?\u201d was her pissy greeting to Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cExcuse me?\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t ever want to hear you acknowledge me or any other member of this family like that again, do I make myself clear?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian, still in a very foul mood, turned back to her Barbies without answering her father.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s temper was rising, but he was trying to keep his cool.\u00a0 <\/span>He had had a long day at work and having to punish his youngest child was not on his list of things he thought he would have to come home to.\u00a0 <\/span>He walked over to Jillian\u2019s bed and sat down on the edge of the bed. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJillian, come here, I want to speak to you about how you spoke to Mommy just a little while ago.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian decided to test her father\u2019s will and continued to play with her Barbies.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s voice got deeper as his anger began to rise at his child\u2019s obstinate attitude.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cJillian, I\u2019m giving you until the count of three to put down your dolls and come stand before me.\u00a0 <\/span>One,\u201d Jillian didn\u2019t budge.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cTwo,\u201d Jillian stopped playing and thought about whether she wanted to obey her father or not, \u201cthree,\u201d Jillian got up casually and walked over to stand in front of her father.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam was seething at this point.\u00a0 <\/span>He stroked his beard with his hands as he gathered his thoughts on what to say as his youngest child stood before him with an \u2018I\u2019m waiting\u2019 attitude and stance.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI understand you were disrespectful to your mother earlier when she said you couldn\u2019t have a slumber party after your birthday, is this correct?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI want to have a slumber party, Daddy, and Mommy won\u2019t let me,\u201d was her cold answer.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy gave you her reasons why you can only have a few friends over to spend the night after the party, didn\u2019t she?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOnly because it suits her.\u00a0 <\/span>She doesn\u2019t care how I feel,\u201d Jillian started to whine.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour mother loves you very much, and I\u2019m not going to stand for you speaking to her the way you did, and I certainly am not going to tolerate the way you just treated me when I walked into your room.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut Daddy!\u201d was Jillian cried.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo not, but daddy me, young lady. \u00a0Your behavior is unacceptable and I will not tolerate such disrespect, understood? \u00a0You will not leave this room until I say you can come out. \u00a0If this behavior continues, there will be no birthday party, much less any friends spending the night, do I make myself clear?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian continued to scream at the top of her lungs.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam didn\u2019t wait for a response, and walked out of her room. \u00a0With all the commotion, Emily came from her room and demanded to know what was going on.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf you don\u2019t want the same punishment as your sister, you will mind your own business and go back to what you were doing,\u201d Adam said as he walked past Emily toward his bedroom to change clothes, without even looking at her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was only asking, you don\u2019t have to be so mean about it!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily said as Adam walked away from her.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam turned around quickly and headed back toward Emily, \u201cWhat did you say to me?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Daddy!\u00a0 <\/span>I just wanted to know what all the yelling was about!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam headed back toward his bedroom.\u00a0 <\/span>His face was bright red with anger.\u00a0 <\/span>He unbuttoned his shirt and took it off, throwing it in the dirty clothes basket for the cleaners.\u00a0 <\/span>He took off his undershirt and placed it in the hamper in the bathroom.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica came back to the bedroom where she found Adam sitting on the bed with just his pants on, unbuttoned and unzipped.\u00a0 <\/span>She sat down next to him and gently rubbed his back.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat has gotten into our little girl, Jess?\u00a0 <\/span>She was so obstinate with me.\u00a0 <\/span>I almost lost my cool with her.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Adam, you didn\u2019t!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, of course not, but it scared her I might.\u00a0 <\/span>I was so angry, Jess.\u00a0 <\/span>I was just so angry with her,\u201d Adam said breathing hard, his heart racing.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica placed both her arms around Adam\u2019s waist.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWhat a way to end the week.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sorry you had to come home to this.\u00a0 <\/span>I know it\u2019s been a busy, stressful week for you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s all part of being a husband and father.\u00a0 <\/span>I just need a shower.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica kissed Adam\u2019s shoulder and got up to go turn on the shower while he continued to get undressed.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Jessica finished getting the shower to just the right temperature, Adam came up behind her and put his arms around his wife.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCare to join me?\u201d he asked, calming down from his scene with Jillian.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI would love to, but dinner\u2019s almost ready and I need to finish setting the table.\u00a0 <\/span>Maybe later tonight?\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve been to the store.\u00a0 <\/span>I bought something you might like,\u201d Jessica winked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, did you now?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam pressed himself up against Jessica, placing her hand on the excitement she’d caused between \u00a0his legs<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll take care of this later tonight,\u201d she said as she gave a loving gentle squeeze and walked past Adam, giving him a gentle slap on his bum.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJess!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam yelled back.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica came and peeked around the door frame.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Babe?\u201d she smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou are a wicked woman.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, that\u2019s what you love about me the most,\u201d Jessica said with a wicked laugh, and she walked back to the kitchen.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled as he got into the shower to bathe and satisfy his sexual hunger.<\/p>\n

As Jessica was wrapping up dinner and putting everything on the table, Emily came into the kitchen to speak with her mother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, can Trey come over for a little while after dinner tonight?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily asked in a little girl tone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoney, Daddy had a very hard week at work this week.\u00a0 <\/span>He wants to make an early night tonight.\u00a0 <\/span>Maybe tomorrow or on Sunday, okay?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica answered as she worked around her daughter.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut Mommy!\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve only been able to see Trey once since we\u2019ve been home.\u00a0 <\/span>I miss him!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily argued.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou talk to him on the phone several times a day, Honey.\u00a0 <\/span>How can you miss him?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not the same, Mommy, and you know it.\u00a0 <\/span>Daddy won\u2019t let me see him unless he comes over here and I have to ask permission from you or Daddy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd typically it is not a problem, but it\u2019s been a long week, I\u2019m tired, Daddy\u2019s tired, and the answer is no.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf I were Jason, you would be falling over yourself to allow his girlfriend to come over,\u201d Emily replied disrespectfully back and stomped out of the kitchen.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam finished taking a shower and had changed into jeans and T-shirt.\u00a0 <\/span>He was coming down the hall when Emily stormed by him. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDinner almost ready, Princess?\u201d he asked, unaware of the blow up his daughter had just had with his wife.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, and I don\u2019t care!\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m not hungry!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily said as she stormed into her room and slammed the door.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam started to walk toward Emily\u2019s door and have a talk with her about slamming the door, but felt he should go talk to Jessica to see if she knew why Emily was in such a tizzy. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, you\u2019re out of the shower, did it relax you?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked as she was finishing opening a bottle of wine.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUm, yeah,\u201d Adam said as he came up behind Jessica, placing his arms around her waist and looking toward the entrance of the kitchen to make sure they were alone before he spoke again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour little tease got me all worked up.\u00a0 <\/span>I spent a bit more time in the shower than originally planned.\u00a0 <\/span>Thanks a lot, beautiful wicked wife of mine,\u201d he answered as he nibbled on Jessica\u2019s neck.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI told you I would take care of it later,\u201d Jessica replied in a sultry voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I\u2019m very aware of what you said to me, but it couldn\u2019t wait.\u00a0 <\/span>I will hold you to your promise tonight, though, Lover.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLooking forward to it,\u201d Jessica turned, giving Adam a quick kiss on the lips and handing him the wine.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHelp me set the table, please.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As Adam grabbed the wine glasses and headed into the dining room, he asked Jessica if she knew the reason for Emily\u2019s foul mood.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI passed Emily in the hall, and she looked like she was out for blood.\u00a0 <\/span>You two have words?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica was continuing the final preparations for dinner as she explained what had transpired between her and their daughter concerning Trey.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI suppose I need to remind her the proper way to speak to her mother, especially if she wants her boyfriend to come over.\u00a0 <\/span>Maybe I should ground her from her phone and seeing Trey, too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Adam, just let it go.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s just upset I won\u2019t allow Trey to come over tonight.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019ll get over it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t want our children to think they can be disrespectful every time they don\u2019t get their way, Jess,\u201d Adam argued.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPlease, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s been a long week for both of us.\u00a0 <\/span>Let it go this time.\u201d Jessica stopped and looked at Adam with a pleading look.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, but she needs to be made aware this type\u00a0 <\/span>of behavior will not go unnoticed in the future.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI agree.\u00a0 <\/span>Now, will you go get the girls?\u00a0 <\/span>Dinner\u2019s ready.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam went and knocked on Emily\u2019s door first.\u00a0 <\/span>There was no response from the first knock.\u00a0 <\/span>He knocked again and said, \u201cPrincess, time for dinner.\u00a0 <\/span>Let\u2019s go.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not hungry, Daddy,\u201d was the response from behind the closed door.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis is not a request, Emily.\u00a0 <\/span>Dinner is ready.\u00a0 <\/span>Tell Trey you\u2019ll call him back later.\u00a0 <\/span>Now let\u2019s go.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam left Emily\u2019s door and headed back down the hall and around the corner to Jillian\u2019s room. He knocked on the door and opened it up to stick his head in.\u00a0 <\/span>He saw Jillian laying on her stomach reading a book.\u00a0 <\/span>She looked up and saw Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>The frown on her face showed her mood had not improved any from their last meeting.\u00a0 <\/span>She looked back down and continued to read.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSupper\u2019s ready, Sweetpea, close up your book and come get washed up.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian continued to read, ignoring her father\u2019s call to dinner.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJillian, this is not a request, Mommy has dinner ready, now let\u2019s go.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not hungry.\u00a0 <\/span>I want to stay in my room.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam took a deep breath, trying to calm the anger building inside again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJillian Alexis Cartwright, your mother has worked very hard to make dinner tonight.\u00a0 <\/span>You have exactly one minute to go wash your hands and be at the dinner table.\u00a0 <\/span>If you do not come, there will be consequences you will not enjoy, do I make myself clear, young lady?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCrystal,\u201d was Jillian\u2019s cold response.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once everyone convened at the dinner table, the four Cartwrights sat down to a quiet dinner.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily picked at her food, not making eye contact with either her mother or father.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian ate very slowly, only speaking when spoken to. <\/span><\/p>\n

The two girls asked for an early exit from dinner and were both granted their request.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily helped Jillian with her glass and plate, and they both retreated to the comfort of their rooms.\u00a0 <\/span>Once they had left the kitchen and dining room, Jessica put her face in her hands.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t remember having these issues with Jason, Adam,\u201d Jessica said almost crying.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe had our fair share of problems with Jason, Jess.\u00a0 <\/span>He was far from the perfect child,\u201d Adam said as he got up and began to clear the table.<\/span><\/p>\n

The couple reminisced about the growing pains they had with Jason in his younger years during the divorce and later when they married, laughing at some of his antics and thankful he had grown out of others.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian was growing tired and decided to take a shower before heading to bed.\u00a0 <\/span>As she took off her clothes, she noticed some spotting in her panties.\u00a0 <\/span>She was scared as she had forgotten about her talk with Jessica, and didn’t know what it was.\u00a0 <\/span>Still reeling from the anger she had toward her mother, she decided to confide in her sister the findings after her shower.<\/span><\/p>\n

She put on her robe, put her dirty clothes in the laundry basket and headed to Emily\u2019s room.\u00a0 <\/span>She knocked, and Emily opened the door to see her little sister standing there almost in tears.\u00a0 <\/span>She invited her in and closed the door behind her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s the matter, Peanut?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily asked as she took her into her arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m scared, Emmy!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian broke down in a sob.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cScared? about what?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily\u2019s voice grew more concerned with the sobbing of her sister.<\/span><\/p>\n

A few minutes passed before Jillian could speak.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily brought her sister to her bed and had her sit down.\u00a0 <\/span>She sat down next to her and stroked her back.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTell big sissy what\u2019s the matter,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily said in a comforting sweet tone.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian\u2019s sobs began to subside. In between gasps of air, Jillian explained her findings when she was getting undressed to take a shower.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily laughed and hugged her sister.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWelcome to womanhood, Jillian.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019ve started your period.\u00a0 <\/span>Do you have clean panties on now?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian nodded no. \u201cI don\u2019t want more blood,\u201d she whimpered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily took her sister\u2019s hand and said, \u201cYou need to tell Mommy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t wanna.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m mad at Mommy,\u201d Jillian replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou have to, Peanut.\u00a0 <\/span>You want me to go get her?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian nodded yes, so Emily got up and went to find Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>She found her and Adam in the den watching a movie.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica had her bare feet up on the sofa, leaning against Adam and laying her head on his chest with her arms around him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, can I see you for a minute please?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily asked quietly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica looked up, not moving at first.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWhat is it, Honey?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, please?\u00a0 <\/span>I need to speak to you in private,\u201d Emily persisted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGo on, see what she needs,\u201d Adam said, kissing Jessica on the forehead.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica got up and headed to the doorway.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWhat is it?\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan you come to my room?\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian needs you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica followed Emily.\u00a0 <\/span>Once the door to the den was closed, Emily stopped and shared the news about Jillian\u2019s starting her menstrual cycle.<\/span><\/p>\n

When Jessica reached Emily\u2019s room, she found her daughter sitting on Emily\u2019s bed with her hands in her lap.\u00a0 <\/span>When Jillian saw Jessica, she began to cry again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, baby girl, don\u2019t cry!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica went over and bent down in front of her.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cEmily told me you started your period?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI had blood in my panties, Mommy, and I didn\u2019t know what it was!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian spoke through her tears.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s okay, Baby Girl.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s just part of what happens to us when we grow up.\u00a0 <\/span>It just happened to you a little sooner than it did with your sister.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s nothing to be scared of,\u201d Jessica said as she took her daughter into her arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t tell Daddy, Mommy.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t want him to know!\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m embarrassed!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian cried.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy won\u2019t think any differently about you, sweetie,\u201d Jessica tried to reassure her youngest child.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI asked Mommy not to tell Daddy about me starting either, Jillie, but I know Mommy did,\u201d Emily jumped in.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy!\u00a0 <\/span>Please don\u2019t tell Daddy!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJillian, calm down.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s going to be okay.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, please!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, okay!\u00a0 <\/span>I won\u2019t tell Daddy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica took Jillian into the bathroom and explained to her about the feminine hygiene products she would need to use each month and then helped her get in bed.\u00a0 <\/span>She kissed her goodnight and told her she would talk to her more in depth about her new step toward womanhood after breakfast the next day.\u00a0 <\/span>She went back to thank Emily for coming to get her. <\/span><\/p>\n

After she had left Emily, she returned to the den where Adam was still watching the movie.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou were gone awhile, is everything okay with the girls?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked as Jessica curled back up in Adam\u2019s arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, they\u2019re fine.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian is entering a new phase of her life, and she found out tonight when she went to take a shower.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked down, and Jessica and said, \u201cDid she start what I think she did?\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t tell you anything.\u00a0 <\/span>You figured it out yourself, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>I promised I wasn\u2019t going to tell you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy lips are sealed,\u201d Adam said as he kissed the top of Jessica\u2019s head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s a bit young isn\u2019t she?\u00a0 <\/span>I mean, if memory serves me right, wasn\u2019t Emily a few years older?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEm was thirteen when she started.\u00a0 <\/span>She begged me not to tell you as well, remember?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam laughed.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cYeah, I remember.\u00a0 <\/span>You told me in a roundabout way when it happened to her, too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid you have the talk with her about all of this before tonight?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, up at our house at the Ponderosa, remember when I had noticed her breasts started to grow?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/span>I told her we would talk more tomorrow morning after breakfast.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll make sure I make myself scarce.\u00a0 <\/span>I need to mow the yard and trim the hedges anyway.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019ll be a good time for you to have some privacy with her.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Babe, I appreciate it,\u201d Jessica said smiling up at Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

The couple turned their attention back to the movie they were watching.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam filled Jessica in on what had happened in the movie during her absence.\u00a0 <\/span>As the movie ended, Adam looked down and saw that Jessica had fallen asleep.\u00a0 <\/span>He smiled as he watched his wife quietly resting.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJess,\u201d Adam gently nudged her to wake her up so they could go to bed.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cJess, Jess, wake up!\u201d Adam said a bit louder.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica woke abruptly, looking up at Adam with sleepy eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled down at Jessica and quietly said, \u201cLet\u2019s go to bed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The couple got up and headed back to their bedroom.\u00a0 <\/span>Once they were in their bedroom, they began to get undressed.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam stripped down to his boxers and got into bed.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica looked over at him and said, \u201cYou\u2019re not getting naked?\u00a0 <\/span>What about my promise to you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled at Jessica and said, \u201cYou\u2019re tired, you need your rest.\u00a0 <\/span>We can have fun in the morning,\u201d he winked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica climbed into bed next to her husband and put her arms around him and placed her head on his chest. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, you know it?\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re so considerate and kind.\u00a0 <\/span>The girls and I are the luckiest women in the whole world to have such wonderful men as you and Jason in our lives.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam ran his fingers through Jessica\u2019s hair and smiled as he closed his eyes and enjoyed the snuggle time with his wife.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about Brie?\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s a lucky woman to have our son in her life don\u2019t you think?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica sighed as she closed her eyes and relaxed in Adam\u2019s arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, she\u2019s a lucky woman, too.\u00a0 <\/span>You and I are lucky our son is so happy and in love with such a terrific girl.\u00a0 <\/span>I think we\u2019ve done pretty well raising our kids, don\u2019t you think?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I think you\u2019re right.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The two lovers drifted off to sleep in each other\u2019s arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

Around 3:00 A.M. the phone rang; it was Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHello?\u201d a sleepy Adam answered the phone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBrother, it\u2019s Hoss.\u00a0 <\/span>Dad\u2019s been taken to the hospital by air ambulance.\u00a0 <\/span>You need to get there as quickly as you can. \u00a0It doesn\u2019t look good.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked as he turned on the light, \u201cWhat\u2019s the matter with Dad?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica woke up and turned to Adam with a concerned look on her face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe called me.\u00a0 <\/span>He said he was having trouble breathing, and his chest was tight.\u00a0 <\/span>I think he might be suffering another heart attack.\u00a0 <\/span>I called 9-1-1 and headed to the main house.\u00a0 <\/span>I found him slumped over in his chair semi-conscious.\u00a0 <\/span>The ambulance arrived but called Care Flight to air flight him to Carson-Tahoe Med Center. \u00a0You need to come, Adam, it doesn\u2019t look good.\u00a0 <\/span>Joe\u2019s on his way, too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be right there,\u201d Adam said springing out of bed and hurrying into the closet to grab his jeans and a shirt.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica jumped out of bed and went to Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s going on?\u00a0 <\/span>Is something wrong with Dad?\u201d she asked frantically. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss thinks Dad might have suffered another heart attack.\u00a0 <\/span>He\u2019s been airlifted to Carson-Tahoe. \u00a0I\u2019ve got to go.\u00a0 <\/span>You stay here with the girls.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll give you a call when I know something,\u201d he answered as he was quickly putting on his clothes and shoes.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam grabbed his keys, iPhone, wallet, and kissed Jessica quickly on the lips and headed out the bedroom. \u00a0Jessica followed behind him to the garage.\u00a0 <\/span>As Adam was getting in his Porsche, Jessica called to him, \u201cAdam, please drive carefully.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam blew her another kiss and raised the garage door, and was out and on his way to the hospital.<\/span><\/p>\n

When Adam arrived, he went to the information desk and spoke to the young woman who was working the overnight shift at the desk.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy name is Adam Cartwright, my father, Ben, was brought here by helicopter.\u00a0 How<\/span>\u00a0is he?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As the clerk got up to find out information on Ben\u2019s condition, Joe and Hoss arrived about the same time. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019s Dad?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Joe asked as he arrived at the desk.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHave they told you anything yet?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Hoss asked right Joe\u2019s question.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I just arrived.\u00a0 <\/span>The clerk is checking now.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The clerk arrived back at her desk and sat down.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cYour father has arrived and is currently being treated by our emergency doctors.\u00a0 <\/span>Please have a seat and when they\u2019re available, they\u2019ll come speak to you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam, Hoss, and Joe went and sat in the waiting room.\u00a0 <\/span>There were a handful of parents there with their children waiting to be seen by the doctors.\u00a0 <\/span>Another woman was there with her husband with an ice pack on her wrist. <\/span><\/p>\n

Time seemed to tick by slowly as the three brothers waited anxiously for word on the condition of their father.\u00a0 <\/span>Joe called his wife, Donna, to let her know he had arrived but didn\u2019t have any news to share yet.\u00a0 <\/span>Since it was almost 7:00 A.M. in Massachusetts, Adam decided to call Jason and let him and Brianna know the news regarding Jason\u2019s grandfather.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning!\u201d was the cheery voice which greeted Adam from his future daughter-in-law.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning, Brie.\u00a0 <\/span>Is Jason awake yet?\u00a0 <\/span>I need to speak to him,\u201d Adam kept calm, trying to not alarm Brianna\u2019s good mood.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure, Adam, he just got out of the shower, let me get him for you,\u201d Brianna said with the same cheerfulness in her voice.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cJason, your dad\u2019s on the phone,\u201d she called from the bedroom to the bathroom.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason wrapped a towel around his waist and came into the bedroom to take the call.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll get the coffee started,\u201d Brianna said to Jason as she handed him the phone and gave him a good morning kiss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Babe,\u201d Jason said as he put the phone to his ear.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHey, Dad, is everything okay? It’s awfully early in Carson City.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Son, sorry to call you so early in the morning.\u00a0 <\/span>I wanted to let you know your grandfather has been brought to the hospital by air ambulance.\u00a0 <\/span>He called Hoss complaining about shortness of breath and chest pains.\u00a0 <\/span>We don\u2019t know anything yet, we\u2019ve just arrived.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad, no!\u00a0 <\/span>Is he going to be okay?\u201d the alarm in Jason\u2019s voice brought Brianna back into their bedroom to hear what was the matter.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know yet, Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>When I know something,\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll give you and Brianna a call to let you know.\u00a0 <\/span>I just wanted you to know what’s going on.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs Mom with you?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason asked, his voice still\u00a0concerned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Mom is back home with the girls.\u00a0 <\/span>They\u2019re asleep, and I didn\u2019t want to wake them up.\u00a0 <\/span>Joe, Hoss, and I are here waiting for the doctor to come out.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFamily of Ben Cartwright?\u201d said the nurse at the door leading back to the emergency ward.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve got to go, Son.\u00a0 <\/span>They\u2019re calling to tell us\u00a0about Poppy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCall me when you know anything, please, Dad!\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI will, I promise when I know something,\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll call you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam hung up the phone as all three brothers headed toward where the nurse was standing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m Adam Cartwright, these are my brothers, Eric and Joe.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019re Ben\u2019s three sons.\u00a0 <\/span>How’s our father?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPlease follow me.\u00a0 <\/span>The doctor would like to speak to you in private.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam, Hoss, and Joe looked at each other with concern as they turned to go through the door following the nurse to a private room where the doctor wanted to speak to them regarding Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

The nurse opened a door that led into a small waiting room.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cPlease have a seat, the doctor will be with you shortly.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The nurses demeanor didn\u2019t give a clue as to Ben\u2019s condition or what the doctor wanted to speak to them about, so they all sat down and tried to relax as best they could.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ten minutes passed when\u00a0the doctor finally arrived.\u00a0 <\/span>She was a young doctor with long brown hair pulled back into a ponytail with a red bow to match the red scrubs she was wearing.\u00a0 <\/span>As she entered the room, Adam, Hoss, and Joe stood to greet her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHello, I\u2019m Dr. Malory Brewer, I\u2019m the attending physician here in the ER.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHello, I\u2019m Adam, these are my brothers, Eric, and Joe,\u201d Adam introduced himself and his brothers, all shaking hands with the doctor.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHow is our father, Ben?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPlease, have a seat,\u201d Dr. Brewer said, gesturing them all to sit down as she, too, took a seat. \u201cYour father came into my ER in full cardiac arrest.\u00a0 <\/span>I understand he had complained of chest pains and shortness of breath, and when one of you arrived, you found him slumped over in his chair?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Ma\u2019am, that was me.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m the one who called 9-1-1,\u201d Hoss spoke.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe did suffer a massive heart attack.\u00a0 <\/span>As I said, he came into the ER in full arrest.\u00a0 <\/span>The paramedics were performing CPR on him as he was transported from the chopper to the helipad. I took over CPR as we brought him down into the ER.\u00a0 <\/span>We were able to get his heart beating again, but he soon went back into full arrest.\u00a0 <\/span>We began CPR again, but we were not successful in getting his heart to start again.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sorry to have to tell you, but your father passed away about twenty minutes ago,\u201d the doctor paused to let the shock of Ben\u2019s passing sink into his three sons.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe did everything we could, his heart was just too weak to continue.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m very sorry for your loss.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The three grown men sat in shock and silence.\u00a0 <\/span>Joe\u2019s eyes welled with tears, and Hoss put his arm around his younger brother to console him.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam swallowed hard and tried to remain stable, but his voice shook and broke as he spoke.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cMay we see our father, Doctor?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, you may.\u00a0 <\/span>Please give me a few moments.\u00a0 <\/span>I need to see if they have him ready.\u00a0 <\/span>Again, I\u2019m very sorry to have to deliver this incredibly sad news.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you,\u201d Adam\u2019s voice was almost a whisper as he tried valiantly to fight back the tears that were trying to escape his eyes.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWe know you did all you could to save his life.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The doctor touched Adam\u2019s arm gently and gave him a look of sympathy as she headed out the door.\u00a0 <\/span>Dr. Brewer headed to the trauma room where Ben\u2019s body lay on the table.\u00a0 <\/span>The cardiac leads had been removed from his chest, but the pads remained. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s ready for his family now, Doctor,\u201d the nurse said as she finished cleaning up the medical supplies and medicines which had been used in the attempt to save Ben\u2019s life.<\/span><\/p>\n

The doctor stood alone looking at Ben\u2019s body.\u00a0 <\/span>She touched his shoulder and said, \u201cI\u00a0tried with every medical intervention\u00a0I had to\u00a0save you, Mr. Cartwright. \u00a0I\u2019m very sorry.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Dr. Brewer then turned to head back to the room where Adam, Hoss, and Joe were waiting. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGentlemen, we\u2019re ready for you now.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The boys followed the doctor to the room where Ben\u2019s lifeless body was waiting.\u00a0 <\/span>As they came into the room, the sight of Ben was almost more than the three boys could take.\u00a0 <\/span>Their strong exteriors were collapsing like a house of cards.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll leave you with your father,\u201d the doctor softly spoke to Adam, and she left the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam, Hoss, and Joe slowly walked toward their father.\u00a0 <\/span>They each looked down on his lifeless body.\u00a0 <\/span>Joe knelt down next to his father and wept.\u00a0 <\/span>Tears were rolling down Hoss\u2019 puffy cheeks.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam could no longer hold back the burning, salty tears and he, too, started to cry as he sat in the chair next to his father\u2019s head. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m so sorry, Dad!\u201d he whispered as he touched his forehead, stroking his snow white hair.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI should have been there!\u00a0 <\/span>If we could’ve only gotten you to the hospital sooner!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss came over to his older brother.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cAdam, don\u2019t beat yourself up.\u00a0 <\/span>There was nothing any of us could’ve done.\u00a0 <\/span>We couldn\u2019t have predicted this would happen.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s gone, Hoss.\u00a0 <\/span>Dad\u2019s gone,\u201d Adam cried, staring at his father\u2019s face, continuing to stroke his hair.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe came over to his other two brothers and he and Hoss each took one of Adam\u2019s hands and lifted him up, and they all held each other as they broke down crying.<\/span><\/p>\n

After a few minutes, Adam regained his composure as he held his brothers tightly. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re going to get through this together as brothers.\u00a0 <\/span>We have many things we have to work through over the next few days.\u00a0 <\/span>The first thing we have to do is go home and tell our families.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll contact Richard Castle to arrange Dad\u2019s funeral.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019re going to get through this, Dad wouldn\u2019t want it any other way.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss and Joe looked to their oldest brother for strength.\u00a0 <\/span>They knew Adam was now the patriarch of their family and he, as the Executor of Ben\u2019s estate, would be heading up the final arrangements as well.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam walked out and found the doctor.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI\u2019ll be contacting the funeral home later this morning to make arrangements to have my father\u2019s body picked up.\u00a0 <\/span>Is there anything else you need from me at this time?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe need you to sign some paperwork for your father\u2019s admittance into the ER and the insurance paperwork.\u00a0 <\/span>After that, we\u2019ll handle everything else with the funeral director when they come for the body.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

After Adam had finished with the paperwork, he and his brothers said their goodbyes to their father and left the hospital.\u00a0 <\/span>They all departed for their homes to share the sad news of their father\u2019s passing.\u00a0 <\/span>The planning had started for Adam and his brothers, and they began their journey to say their final good-bye to their father.\u00a0 <\/span>The week ahead would be a long one.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam returned home.\u00a0 <\/span>As he lowered the garage door, Jessica was in the kitchen making coffee.\u00a0 <\/span>The sun was coming up over the horizon as she opened the door to find Adam walking toward the her\u00a0looking very sad, his cheeks tear-stained and his eyes swollen and red from crying.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica immediately knew the news was not good, and she felt her legs start to wobble beneath her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Adam, no! please don\u2019t tell me…\u201d her voice trailed off, and she began to cry as Adam approached her and took her into his chest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThey did everything they could, Babe.\u00a0 <\/span>Dad’s gone.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, no, no!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica screamed into Adam\u2019s chest.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cPlease tell me this is just a dream and I\u2019m going to wake up!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m afraid it\u2019s not a dream, Jess!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam\u2019s voice cracked.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cDad\u2019s really gone.\u00a0 <\/span>The doctors did all they could, but they just couldn\u2019t keep his heart beating.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica sobbed uncontrollably into Adam\u2019s chest as he held her tightly and let her cry.\u00a0 <\/span>Ben had always been so kind to Jessica, even during the years of her and Adam\u2019s divorce.\u00a0 <\/span>She loved her father-in-law like her own father.\u00a0 <\/span>She, too, always held a special place for\u00a0her father-in-law in her heart and now he was gone, and a profound emptiness filled her being.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow are we going to tell the girls, Adam?\u00a0 <\/span>Jason!\u00a0 <\/span>Oh my gosh, we have to call Jason!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica looked up at Adam with her eyes wide open and\u00a0tears falling like waterfalls.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI called him from the hospital before we knew Dad had passed away,\u201d Adam tried to keep strong for his wife.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI haven\u2019t called him again to let him know about him dying.\u00a0 <\/span>Are the girls awake yet?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica shook her head no.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI\u2019ll go get them and bring them into the den.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica wiped her eyes as she turned to go get the girls.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam stood motionless for a moment as he looked around the kitchen.\u00a0 <\/span>Everything was different for him now.\u00a0 <\/span>The realization he no longer had either of his parents was weighing heavily on his heart.\u00a0 <\/span>He took a deep breath and went into the den where he waited for Jessica to wake up the girls and bring them into the room so he could tell them about their Poppy\u2019s death.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy?\u00a0 <\/span>What\u2019s wrong?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily was the first to enter the room.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cMommy said to get up and come in here, you had something you needed to tell us?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome sit down next to me, Princess,\u201d Adam said patting the seat next to him on the sofa.\u00a0 <\/span>As Emily made her way over to where Adam was sitting, Jessica and Jillian came into the room. Jessica sat down in the chair next to the couch and had Jillian sit in her lap.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam put his arm around Emily and began to explain the series of events which had started earlier in the morning with the phone call from Hoss.\u00a0 <\/span>As Adam reached the part to tell them their Poppy had died, each of the girls broke down in a sob of tears.\u00a0 <\/span>They both loved their grandfather very much, and the news of his death came as a huge blow to each of them. <\/span><\/p>\n

After Adam and Jessica had been able to calm their two youngest children down, they each got on the phone and made the dreaded call to their son back in Massachusetts. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Dad, how\u2019s Poppy?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason answered the phone.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam sat silent for a moment, trying to find the words to tell his eldest child about his favorite grandfather passing away.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, Poppy died today,\u201d Adam just let it all out with a massive sigh.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason sat silent for a moment. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoney, your Poppy loved you so much.\u00a0 <\/span>Don\u2019t ever forget that,\u201d Jessica said trying to break the silence.<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna\u2019s voice was the next to be heard.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cAdam? what happened?\u201d she asked with a worried sound in her voice.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cJason handed me the phone and walked out onto the balcony and is standing there slumped over the railing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason\u2019s Poppy died, hon,\u201d Jessica\u2019s voice was somber.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Adam, Jessica, I\u2019m soo sorry!\u00a0 <\/span>Jason told me he had been rushed to the hospital.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBrie, listen to me,\u201d Adam\u2019s voice became very matter of fact. \u201cTake care of Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>He and his Poppy were extremely close.\u00a0 <\/span>This news, no doubt, has come as a huge blow to him.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t have any further news or arrangements at this time.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll be in touch with you when I do.\u00a0 <\/span>Go be with Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>Tell him to call me if he needs to talk.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica\u2019s voice rang from the other extension.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked sternly at Jessica and shook his hand at her as if to say stop talking.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI will, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll take good care of him.\u00a0 <\/span>Please let us know when we need to come back home and we\u2019ll be on the next flight out.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Brie, I\u2019ll be in touch.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

When Adam and Jessica hung up with Brianna, Jessica came over to Adam and said, \u201cWhat were you thinking?\u00a0 <\/span>You sprang the news on our son that his favorite grandfather had just died, and you don\u2019t want to try to talk to him?\u00a0 <\/span>What is wrong with you, Adam?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is wrong with me? I just lost my father, that\u2019s what\u2019s wrong with me, Jessica.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked at Jessica like she had two heads.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica was trying to be sympathetic to her husband\u2019s hurt, but she was terribly worried about Jason\u2019s sadness a few thousand miles away.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica put her arms around her husband.\u00a0 <\/span>She placed her head on his back and rubbed his chest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>I know you\u2019re hurting.\u00a0 <\/span>Remember, I\u2019ve been where you are right now.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m concerned about Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>He\u2019s so far away, and his favorite grandfather just died.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Jess, I know!\u00a0\u00a0<\/span>I\u2019m doing the best I can at the minute.\u00a0 <\/span>I have so many things going through my head right now.\u00a0 <\/span>I have to get arrangements made, I have to contact Richard Castle, our company attorney, so he can handle not only my father\u2019s estate but the transfer of the business as well.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about your brothers?\u00a0 <\/span>Are they not having any say or part in any of this?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss and Joe are dealing with their own grief.\u00a0 <\/span>They’ve put their trust in me as the eldest son to handle everything where our father is concerned.\u00a0 <\/span>They\u2019ll be there, but they trust me to make the decisions that would be best.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs that really fair, Adam?\u00a0 <\/span>I mean, why are you given all the pressure of making all the arrangements and handling Ben\u2019s estate?\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m worried about you!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be fine, Jessica,\u201d Adam\u2019s voice was low and direct.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica retreated.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam turned\u00a0to Jessica and took her into his arms. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Babe.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s just been a hard morning.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m worried about you, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>I love my brother-in-laws, too, but you\u2019re my husband, and you\u2019re my primary concern.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Babe.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll be fine.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked at his watch; it was 9:00 A.M.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI need to call the funeral home to make arrangements for Dad\u2019s body to be picked up from the hospital.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m then going to call my brothers to meet me at the funeral home to make the arrangements for the services.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica gave Adam a kiss and went off to cook breakfast for her and the girls.\u00a0 <\/span>She had asked Adam if he wanted something to eat, and he said he was not hungry.<\/span><\/p>\n

While Jessica and the girls were eating breakfast, Adam headed to the garage to head to the funeral home.\u00a0 <\/span>He stopped and kissed both his daughters\u2019 on their heads and bent down to kiss Jessica on her lips.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica got up from her chair and walked with Adam to the garage.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know when I\u2019ll be back.\u00a0 <\/span>I might head up to the Ponderosa after we finish with the arrangements.\u00a0 <\/span>I just don\u2019t know yet.\u00a0 <\/span>Depending on how exhausted I am.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>I love you, please be careful,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said as Adam toward\u00a0his car.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam opened the door to his car and stopped to look back at Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>Her face was sad, and the tears were evident in her eyes.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam closed the door and came back to where Jessica was standing and took her into his arms. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Jess.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u00a0 <\/span>What are you sorry about?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said putting her hands on Adam\u2019s cheeks.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m lost in my own mourning\u00a0and I\u2019m not here to support you and the girls in your sadness,\u201d Adam said moving Jessica\u2019s bangs from her forehead.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m concerned about you, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t want you pushing all of your sadness down to protect the girls and me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be fine, Jess.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sad, but I\u2019ll be okay.\u00a0 <\/span>We just have to get through the funeral and burial, and everything else will be all right.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you want me to go with you?\u00a0 <\/span>I can go change clothes quickly if you want me to come.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled and kissed Jessica on the forehead.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, woman, you know that?\u00a0 <\/span>I need to do this on my own, Okay?\u00a0 <\/span>Besides, my brothers will be there with me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd the Ponderosa?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t think I need to go alone, right?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica shook her head no.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled and hugged Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cOkay, I\u2019ll be home in a little bit.\u00a0 <\/span>If I decide to go to the Ponderosa, we\u2019ll go as a family.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica smiled and kissed Adam on the cheek, and he walked back to his car, got in, Jessica raised the garage door and they each waved at each other as he pulled out of the garage and drove away.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam met Hoss and Joe at the funeral home, and they made final arrangements for Ben\u2019s funeral and his eternal resting place at the Ponderosa between the\u00a0two wives he had been married to since moving to Nevada. <\/span><\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s three sons met with the funeral director of Autumn Funeral Home and planned a public viewing and memorial service for their father so friends and employees of Cartwright, Inc. would be able to pay their last respects to Ben and their condolences to the family.\u00a0 <\/span>The burial would be private for only the family, followed by a gathering of close friends and officers of the company. <\/span><\/p>\n

Upon Adam\u2019s return home from working out the final details of his father\u2019s internment, he sat in the garage for a few moments alone.\u00a0 <\/span>He reminisced about happier times with his father:\u00a0 <\/span>when they moved out west; built the Ponderosa and their father’s empire known as Cartwright, Inc.; their trip back to their original home when Adam went to college at Massachusetts; his marriage to Jessica; the birth of his and Jessica\u2019s children; Adam’s\u00a0near-fatal car wreck; and his final visit with his father just before he left on his family vacation back east.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad, you\u2019ve always been there for me when I needed you most.\u00a0 <\/span>I know all three of us made you proud.\u00a0 <\/span>I hope we can continue to make you proud as you watch over us now in your heavenly home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam wiped the tear which escaped his eye and headed into the house.\u00a0 <\/span>He found Jessica in the office on the phone with her mother, explaining Ben had passed away.\u00a0 <\/span>When she saw Adam walk by the door toward their bedroom, she told her mother Adam was home, and she needed to go be with him.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica walked into the bedroom and found Adam taking off his jeans and changing into shorts and a T-shirt. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow did everything go, Sweetheart?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked quietly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam continued to change his clothes preparing to do some yard work to help get his mind off of the morning\u2019s activities.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe made the arrangements.\u00a0 <\/span>Family viewing will be on Monday, public viewing on Tuesday, Funeral on Wednesday, burial on Thursday; it\u2019s going to be a long week.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll call Jason and Brianna.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll make their reservations to come home for tomorrow morning,\u201d Jessica said somberly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSounds good,\u201d Adam said as he got up off the bed from putting on his sneakers and headed toward the back yard to start his yard work.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica headed back into the office and called Jason on his cell phone.\u00a0 <\/span>She worked with him and Brianna on a flight schedule which worked for them and made the reservations and paid for their tickets. <\/span><\/p>\n

Emily and Jillian decided they wanted to help their father with the yard work, and it would help them also release some of their sadness by working outside in nature.\u00a0 <\/span>They smiled when they talked about how they remembered their Poppy always talked about how they needed to be kind to the land on which they lived.\u00a0 <\/span>Be good to the land, and it will be good to you in return<\/em>, Emily remembered her Poppy always preached to her and the rest of his grandchildren. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam appreciated his daughters wanting to help with the yard work.\u00a0 <\/span>He allowed them to clean up the bush clippings dropped when he clipped the hedges.\u00a0 <\/span>He mowed and edged the front and back yard while the girls swept the sidewalk and porch.\u00a0 <\/span>When the three of them came in, Jessica had a light lunch and lemonade ready for them.\u00a0 <\/span>While they ate, Jessica continued her laundry folding and had the girls take their clean clothes back to their rooms after they ate.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam went to take a shower after he finished lunch.\u00a0 <\/span>When he came out of the shower, he found Jessica putting up their clothes and clean towels.\u00a0 <\/span>She tossed Adam a fresh pair of boxers.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam slipped into them and laid down on the bed.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica sat down next to him and rubbed his chest with the tips of her fingernails.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam let out a long sigh and closed his eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t you get some rest. It\u2019s been a long day for you,\u201d she quietly said while she continued to rub her fingers down his chest.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam nodded his head slightly and after a few minutes, Jessica could see his breathing became quieter as he drifted off into a light sleep.\u00a0 <\/span>She gently got up, went into the closet, grabbed a light blanket and placed it over Adam\u2019s sleeping form and left the room, shutting the door behind her.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica was putting sheets into the dryer when Emily came into the laundry room to talk to her about her grandfather\u2019s funeral.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily asked quietly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Sweetheart?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know I never got to introduce Trey to Poppy, but I would really like to invite him to the funeral.\u00a0 <\/span>To give me support more than anything.\u00a0 <\/span>Would it be okay?\u00a0 <\/span>Do you think Daddy would mind?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica stopped and smiled at her eldest daughter.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI don\u2019t believe it would be a problem, Sweetheart.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll talk to Daddy about it tonight after dinner, okay?\u00a0 <\/span>Don\u2019t say anything to Trey until I talk to Daddy, but I think it will be all right.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen are Jason and Brie coming home?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019ll be home tomorrow afternoon; they\u2019ll be here through next Saturday.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhere\u2019s Jillian?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe took a bath and went into her room to read.\u00a0 <\/span>Can I help you with anything, Mommy?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Sweetheart.\u00a0 <\/span>Not right now.\u00a0 <\/span>You can give me a hand with dinner in a few hours, okay?\u00a0 <\/span>I think once I\u2019m finished with the laundry, I\u2019m going to sit down and read a book.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily gave her mother a hug and left to go back to her room. <\/span><\/p>\n

As the sun started to set for the evening, Adam woke from his long nap, and he put on a pair of jeans and headed into the kitchen to grab a glass of water.\u00a0 <\/span>He found Jessica preparing some fresh green beans for dinner. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, did you sleep well?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked as she continued to snap the ends off of each of the beans.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes and no.\u00a0 <\/span>I kept waking up when it seemed I’d just dozed off,\u201d he said as he grabbed a glass from the cupboard. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou still look exhausted.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll call it an early night tonight,\u201d Jessica said as she rinsed the beans.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWould you go get Emily for me, Babe?\u00a0 <\/span>She said she wanted to help me with dinner tonight.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure, be right back.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam sat his glass down and headed back to Emily\u2019s room. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPrincess, Mommy wants you in the kitchen,\u201d Adam said as he knocked on her door. <\/span><\/p>\n

Emily came out and hugged her father and laid her head on his bare chest. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, Daddy.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sorry for your loss today.\u00a0 <\/span>I loved Poppy very much.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam hugged his daughter tight and fought back the tears as he held his her in his arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPoppy loved you very much, too, Princess.\u00a0 <\/span>He loved all of his grandchildren very much.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Daddy,\u201d Emily said as she looked up at her hero. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled and kissed his daughter on her forehead, patted her bum and told her to go help her mother in the kitchen.<\/span><\/p>\n

After dinner, the family went into the den and watched a movie together.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily snuggled into her father\u2019s arms, and Jillian snuggled into her mother\u2019s arms.\u00a0 <\/span>After the movie was over, everyone was exhausted from the long emotional day.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam and Jessica kissed their girl’s goodnight and prepared for the arrival of Jason and Brianna the next day as well as the emotional goodbye week ahead.<\/span><\/p>\n

Chapter Fourteen<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

**Reader warning…You will need more tissues**<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

As the night turned to early morning, Adam woke from his restless sleep.\u00a0 <\/span>He knew he had a long day ahead of him, and he quietly got out of bed so as not to awake Jessica, who was sleeping peacefully next to him.<\/span><\/p>\n

He went to the kitchen to put on a pot of coffee as he ran through his mind all the things he had to do in preparation for his father\u2019s funeral and the finalizing of his estate.\u00a0 <\/span>He’d spoke to his longtime friend and chief counsel at Cartwright, Inc., Larry Jacobs, about the reading of Ben\u2019s last will and the transfer of ownership of the business from Ben to his three sons.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam sat in the three seasons room drinking a cup of coffee and reading the many emails of condolences on his IPhone when he heard the loving voice of Jessica behind him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou couldn\u2019t sleep, my love?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam turned his head and looked up at Jessica, who was standing behind him.\u00a0 <\/span>He grabbed her hand, kissed her palm and smiled up at her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, my brain is on overdrive right now.\u00a0 <\/span>So many thoughts are racing through my head on things that need to get done before we lay my father to rest on Thursday.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica came and sat on Adam\u2019s lap; she kissed him tenderly on the cheek.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI know this is hard on you, but we\u2019ll get through it together, Sweetheart.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled as he looked longingly into Jessica\u2019s comforting eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou know,\u201d Adam said with a lift in his voice, \u201cmy father always liked you.\u00a0 <\/span>From the very first day I brought you home to meet him, he always told me how special you were, and he saw the love you had for me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica put her hand on Adam\u2019s cheek, \u201cDad was a very observant man. \u00a0 <\/span>At one time anger and resentment jaded my love for you,\u00a0 <\/span>but it never wavered in my heart for you or for Dad.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m glad.\u00a0 <\/span>Dad’s funeral would be tough to go through without you by my side.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica laid her head on Adam\u2019s chest.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI\u2019ll always be with you, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Nothing will ever separate us again.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam kissed the top of Jessica\u2019s head, and they sat in silence as they watched the sun come up over the horizon and listen to the birds begin to sing their praises of another beautiful day.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam finally patted Jessica on her hip and told her he needed to get up and get dressed.\u00a0 <\/span>He was meeting his brothers and Larry at the Ponderosa to go over Ben\u2019s estate.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica and the girls would be picking up Jason and Brianna from the airport if Adam was not back from his meeting in time.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Adam arrived at the Ponderosa, he came around the circle drive and sat in his car for a few moments after shutting off the engine. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis house doesn\u2019t seem like home anymore without you here, Dad,\u201d he said to himself as he let out a deep sigh, exited his car, and headed toward the house.<\/span><\/p>\n

When he walked inside, he was met by his two brothers who were already there with Larry.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood to see you, Adam,\u201d Larry said as he shook Adam\u2019s hand, \u201cI\u2019m just sorry it is under such sad circumstances.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Larry.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Without hesitating, Adam gestured for everyone to head into Ben\u2019s office just off the great room so they could get the transfer of the business in order, as well as setting a date for the reading of Ben\u2019s will. <\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss had come home the morning of his father\u2019s death and informed his lifelong friend and house foreman, Hop Sing, of his father\u2019s passing.\u00a0 <\/span>Hop Sing was devastated by the news but in true Chinese tradition, he stayed strong for the family and putting his own grief aside, was there to tend to the needs of the men as they had a full day ahead of them going through everything they needed to get done.\u00a0 <\/span>Hop Ling was also available to help his cousin as Hop Sing, too, was getting on up in age.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam sat behind Ben\u2019s desk, and Larry pulled a chair up next to him while Joe and Hoss pulled up chairs and sat opposite the two men.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam poured a cup of java from the carafe Hop Ling had brought in with fresh homemade croissants, butter, and Jam for the men to nibble on as they went through the small stack of file folders the Cartwright attorney had brought with him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour father had everything in order\u00a0for just this day.\u00a0 <\/span>One-third of the business is to go to each of you.\u00a0 <\/span>Should any of you decide to sell your third of the company, the other two brothers will have the first opportunity to purchase the other brother’s third.\u00a0 <\/span>Your father was very particular about these conditions.\u00a0 <\/span>He worked hard to make this family business what it is today, and he doesn\u2019t ever want it sold to outsiders if possible.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad didn\u2019t have to worry about that happening, Larry,\u201d Joe interjected.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo sirree,\u201d Hoss agreed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s also made provisions for Adam to remain as CEO and for you two,\u201d gesturing to Hoss and Joe, \u201cto continue as Senior Vice Presidents. Of course, it was always his desire to see Jason come into the business after his graduation from college if he so desires.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat’s his plan currently, but Jessica and I want Jason to do what he thinks is best for him and Brianna.\u00a0 <\/span>We don\u2019t want to pressure any of our children into the family business, but we hope they all want to have some part in its future success.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

After the discussion of terms in regards to the transfer of ownership of Cartwright, Inc., each of the boys signed the transfer paperwork, and became each one-third owner. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNow, Adam, there is another piece of business Hoss, Joe, and I need to speak with you about regarding your father\u2019s will before we plan the date and have it read aloud to all named in the will.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked at Larry, Hoss, and Joe with a surprised look on his face.\u00a0 <\/span>He couldn\u2019t imagine what news they each had to share that he didn\u2019t already know.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen your son came home at Christmas with Brianna, your father could see he was quite serious about his girlfriend, and he soon expected there would be an engagement announcement made.\u00a0 <\/span>Ben was happy about the decision they made official this summer, and he hoped he would be healthy enough to travel and attend the wedding.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know Jason and Brianna wanted this more than anything as well.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason and Dad were extremely close.\u00a0 <\/span>His death has been devastating to my son.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was your father\u2019s wish to give his eldest grandson something very special in honor of their relationship as well as being the first born grandchild.\u00a0 <\/span>He discussed it with Hoss and Joe, and with their blessing, he spoke with me to make it a part of his will.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked at Larry and his brothers with a befuddled look.\u00a0 <\/span>He was curious to know what his father had wanted for Jason and, furthermore, why he was not privy to the information before this moment.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou see, Adam, your father wanted to leave his home here on the Ponderosa, to your son.\u00a0 <\/span>His reasoning’s are very clear.\u00a0 <\/span>You and Jessica live in the city with your children, and you also own land and a home here currently; the same with Joe, his wife, and children.\u00a0 <\/span>Hoss also has a home on his land here on the Ponderosa, and he’s happy and content living in his home, too.\u00a0 <\/span>After Ben had realized Jason would be marrying one day, he wanted his grandson and granddaughter-in-law to have a lovely home to live in after they were married.\u00a0 <\/span>If he had still been living at the time of their marriage, he was going to give them the house as a gift and build a smaller home upon the bluffs overlooking the lake.\u00a0 <\/span>He told Hoss and Joe it was getting harder for him to climb the stairs and he often slept in the bedroom downstairs when he couldn\u2019t make it up the stairs at night.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam sat back in his chair dumbfounded.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWhy didn\u2019t Dad feel he could talk to me about this?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe wanted it to be a surprise to you and Jason, Adam.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss spoke up.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHe knew you and Jessica loved living in the city and only because of the divorce, you had built a home up here in the first place.\u00a0 <\/span>You always said when Jillian was gone to college you and Jessica would then sell your house in Carson City and move back up here and but to the\u00a0home you had already built.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, I get that, but why?\u00a0 <\/span>Why didn\u2019t he feel he could talk to me about it?\u00a0 <\/span>I wish I could thank him for his beautiful, generous gift to my son.\u00a0 <\/span>I know this will shock him!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad was afraid you would say no, Adam,\u201d Joe spoke up, remembering the conversation he and Hoss had with him regarding his desire.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHoss and I agreed it should go to Jason since we all have homes here as well as you as well as the one Donna and I have\u00a0in the city.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBesides, Jason has always said how much he loves it up here.\u00a0 <\/span>He told me he would like to live up here when he got married,\u201d Hoss said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, he wanted to live in a small apartment after graduation, work for the company, and save money to build a house on the land reserved\u00a0for him,\u201d Adam added.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell\u00a0 <\/span>hopefully, he’ll accept his grandfather\u2019s final gift to him and take ownership of the house which was once his.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThere is no doubt Jason will accept\u00a0such a beautiful gift.\u00a0 <\/span>I know Brianna will be beside herself as well.\u00a0 <\/span>She mentioned how much she loved Dad\u2019s home when she was here last.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, I need to ask you to please not divulge any of this information to him before the reading.\u00a0 <\/span>We wanted to let you know of your father\u2019s wishes as the executor of his estate,\u201d Larry stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI understand.\u00a0 <\/span>I would like to share this news with Jessica, however.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou may do as you see fit, Adam, but because Jason is the recipient of this gift, it is best he find out about it at the time of the reading of the will.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI understand.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The four gentlemen went on and wrapped up the other loose ends where the business and the Ponderosa real estate was related.\u00a0 <\/span>The afternoon was turning to evening and after they had finished, the three boys shook Larry\u2019s hand as he walked to his car and got in to leave.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hop Sing and Hop Ling had made themselves scarce during the meeting; only bringing in fresh coffee, lunch, and afternoon snacks.\u00a0 <\/span>They continued business as usual, until after Larry\u2019s departure.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Adam, we are very saddened by Mr. Ben\u2019s death.\u00a0 <\/span>We shall tender our resignation to you after the burial,\u201d Hop Sing and Hop Ling announced.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing,\u201d Adam said as he put his arm around him and led him into the great room to sit down on the settee, \u201cI know I speak for my brothers on this.\u00a0\u00a0We would like you to stay on if you choose to.\u00a0 <\/span>You have not only been our cook and housekeeper for most of our lives, but you\u2019ve been a friend to our father.\u00a0 <\/span>If you choose to retire, of course, we’ll accept your resignation, but as you know, it was our father\u2019s wish upon your retirement, to build a house here on the Ponderosa for you and there also was a pension set up for you.\u00a0 <\/span>The choice is yours but we\u2019ll need someone to keep up the house until it’s occupied again.\u00a0 <\/span>Hop Ling, my father has generously left this house to my son, Jason, and Brianna.\u00a0 <\/span>They\u2019ll need assistance with this house, and I would like to keep you on as head house supervisor when\u00a0Hop Sing decides to retire.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Master Jason has more years of school before he comes home to live here,\u201d Hop Sing smiled widely.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou knew, too?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam said with a big smile on his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh yes, Mr. Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Mr. Ben and I discussed it many times!\u00a0 <\/span>I told him, splendid idea!\u00a0 <\/span>Master Jason loves this house.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, he does, Hop Sing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked at his watch and realized Jason was probably arriving about that time and he wanted to get going home so he could be there when they got home.\u00a0 <\/span>He hugged his brothers and headed toward the door.\u00a0 <\/span>He turned one more time to them and thanked them for wanting his son to have their father\u2019s home. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe wouldn\u2019t have it any other way, older brother,\u201d Hoss said as he and Joe each joined to hug Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam held back the tears until he got to his car and drove away.\u00a0 <\/span>As he reached the entrance to the Ponderosa, he called Jessica on his cell phone to let her know he was on his way back and he would see them when they got home.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTheir plane just landed, Babe.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll see you in a little bit.\u00a0 <\/span>Did you get everything straightened away with Larry?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I\u2019ll tell you about it tonight when we go to bed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, I love you, Adam,\u201d Jessica said with a soft, quiet voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you more than you\u2019ll ever know, Jess,\u201d Adam said, trying to hide the sorrow in his voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

When Adam arrived home, Jessica\u2019s SUV was in the garage.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason and Brianna had only brought a piece of luggage they could bring on the plane, so they didn\u2019t have to wait for their luggage to arrive at baggage claim. <\/span><\/p>\n

When Adam came in the door, Jason, Brianna, Jessica, and Emily were sitting at the table in the kitchen.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason got up and went to his father to hug him.\u00a0 <\/span>The sight of her son and husband embracing brought tears to Jessica\u2019s eyes.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna and Emily also began to cry when they heard Jason break down in his father\u2019s arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t believe he\u2019s gone, Dad,\u201d were the muffled words that came from Jason as his father held him tight in his arms.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHe was more than my grandfather; he was my mentor, my friend.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Son, I know.\u00a0 <\/span>I miss him greatly, too,\u201d Adam said as he held his son.<\/span><\/p>\n

After Jason was able to gain control of his emotions again, Adam released his embrace and went to Brianna to give her a hug.\u00a0 <\/span>She, too, broke down when she expressed her condolences to Adam at the loss of his father.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I\u2019m so sorry for your loss.\u00a0 <\/span>Your dad was so kind to me.\u00a0 <\/span>Even though I had only known him a short time, I loved him dearly; I miss him.\u00a0 <\/span>My parents send their love and condolences as well.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Brie,\u201d Adam said as he released Brianna and wiped the tears from her eyes. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo what are the plans, Dad?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, tomorrow is the family viewing.\u00a0 <\/span>Tuesday, for the public.\u00a0 <\/span>Wednesday will be the funeral and there will be a gathering at Dad\u2019s house afterward for friends, family, and senior staff of the company.\u00a0 <\/span>Thursday will be a private burial with just the family followed by the reading of the will.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

After a light dinner, everyone was growing tired from the long day.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily had retreated to her bedroom to talk with Trey, and Jillian had been in her room since returning home from the airport, except for dinner, to read a book.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason and Brianna excused themselves and headed to his bedroom to get ready for bed.\u00a0 <\/span>Since they were still on Eastern time, it felt like midnight to them and coupled with a long day of traveling they were ready for a shower and sleep.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica and Adam kissed the kids goodnight and they stayed to clean the dishes before retiring themselves.\u00a0 <\/span>They stopped off at Jillian\u2019s room after finishing in the kitchen and told her not to stay up too late and gave her a kiss and hug goodnight.\u00a0 <\/span>They also stopped and knocked on Emily\u2019s door where she was still chatting with Trey on the phone.\u00a0 <\/span>She put her phone down to give her father and mother a hug and kiss goodnight. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy, Mommy said she would check with you to see if it would be okay to have Trey attend the family functions with me for support,\u201d she said with sadness in her eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled and ran the back of his fingers down Emily\u2019s cheek. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, we talked about it and of course, it’s okay, Princess.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily smiled and hugged Adam tight.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI love you, Daddy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, too, Princess.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

She went back to her room and quietly shut the door and returned to her phone call with Trey. <\/span><\/p>\n

When Adam and Jessica got to their bedroom, Adam went to the closet and started to take his clothes off to get in bed.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica went to her dresser and got out a short pajama set and began to get undress.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam emerged with just his silk boxers on and helped Jessica turn down the bed.\u00a0 <\/span>They each got in bed and met in the middle.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica snuggled up in Adam\u2019s arms and began running her fingers through Adam\u2019s forest of salt and pepper chest hair.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI have something to tell you,\u201d Adam said as he ran his fingers down Jessica\u2019s right arm.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said as she gently kissed Adam\u2019s right breast.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad has left his house to Jason.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica sat up in bed and turned to look down at Adam with a look of shock on her face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you kidding me?\u201d she said in total disbelief. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you have a problem with it, Jess?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, of course not, I\u2019m just in shock!\u00a0 <\/span>I figured your father would leave it to you, Hoss or Joe!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, apparently, he spoke to them about it before his death and he said since we all had homes on the Ponderosa already and Joe and I live here in the city as well, he wanted to give his eldest grandchild his home.\u00a0 <\/span>Especially since he knows how special the house and the ranch are to Jason.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI just can\u2019t get over your father\u2019s generous gift, Adam!\u00a0 <\/span>When do you plan to tell Jason?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt is to remain among only us until the reading of the will.\u00a0 <\/span>Dad didn\u2019t want it revealed until then.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay,\u201d Jessica said as she resumed her position in Adam\u2019s arms, resting her head on his chest. <\/span><\/p>\n

The emotional toll had taken a lot out of both Adam and Jessica, and soon the two were sleeping soundly in each other\u2019s arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

Monday flew by and the time came for the family to leave for the funeral home.\u00a0 <\/span>Trey had arrived about ten minutes before it was time to leave.\u00a0 <\/span>Since there was not enough room in Jessica\u2019s SUV for everyone, Jason, Brianna, Emily and Trey all rode in Jason\u2019s Rav4 behind Adam, Jessica, and Jillian.\u00a0 <\/span>When they arrived at the funeral home, they were met by the funeral director who led them to the room where Ben\u2019s body lay in state.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam and Jessica were the first to enter.\u00a0 <\/span>The kids had decided earlier in the day they wanted to give their parents a bit of time alone first.\u00a0 <\/span>When Adam turned to have the kids come with them, Jason explained they felt he and Jessica needed to go first alone.\u00a0 <\/span>He thanked them and took Jessica\u2019s hand, and they walked in together.\u00a0 <\/span>When Adam first saw his father lying in the casket, he had to stop and take a deep breath so his knees would not buckle beneath him.\u00a0 <\/span>He had not seen his father since he saw him at the hospital shortly after he died.\u00a0 <\/span>He now was dressed in his favorite leather vest, cream shirt, and tan pants. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica put her arm around Adam and she nudged him to walk with her up to the casket.\u00a0 <\/span>They saw pictures of all his grandchildren in small frames lined up at the top of the opened coffin. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDonna, Carolyn, and I gathered pictures of all the grandkids and gave them to the funeral director.\u00a0 <\/span>We want Dad buried with his source of pleasure.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled and kissed Jessica on the forehead.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI like it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam saw Joe, Hoss, and their wives enter the room next.\u00a0 <\/span>The four came up to see their father and father-in-law lying in state. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cStill hard to believe he\u2019s gone!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Hoss said, wiping his eyes with a handkerchief. <\/span><\/p>\n

A few minutes later, the kids came in holding Hoss and Carolyn\u2019s twins as well as Joe and Donna\u2019s new baby and their son. <\/span><\/p>\n

The older grandkids each took turns going up to the casket to look at their poppy.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason and Brianna first followed by Emily, Trey, and Jillian.\u00a0 <\/span>Joe took his son when it was his turn.\u00a0 <\/span>Joe Jr. asked all kinds of questions about his grandfather and his death., Joe stood with him answering all them on a level he would understand.<\/span><\/p>\n

After a few hours, everyone left the room but the three brothers.\u00a0 <\/span>They wanted to allow them alone time with their father one last time.\u00a0 <\/span>They each kissed their father on his head and told him they loved him and would miss him.\u00a0 <\/span>They also thanked him for being the best father any child could ever have. <\/span><\/p>\n

When the viewing hours were over, they all convened outside and discussed what time to meet the next evening to accept visitors.\u00a0 <\/span>They decided the time everyone would meet back at the funeral home the next night, and they all got in their cars and went home.<\/span><\/p>\n

Tuesday went by quickly and before they knew it, it was time to go back to the funeral home. Ben\u2019s body would lay in state in the funeral home\u2019s chapel as there would be many friends and employees com to pay their respects.\u00a0 <\/span>Many flowers and plants had arrived and were placed around the casket and chapel.\u00a0 <\/span>Ben\u2019s obituary was put in the paper announcing his death as well as the transfer of ownership of the company to his three sons.\u00a0 <\/span>The family sat in the front row of the room and accepted the friends of Ben, as well as the employees\u00a0of\u00a0Cartwright, Inc., who came by to give their condolences. <\/span><\/p>\n

When Ben\u2019s former secretary, Lana, arrived, Adam was the first to see her.\u00a0 <\/span>He got up and went to give her a hug at the door and escorted her in.\u00a0 <\/span>He introduced her to Jessica and the kids.\u00a0 <\/span>She greeted each of them with a hug and said she had heard so much about them from Ben when she worked for him, and she couldn\u2019t believe how big the kids were now.\u00a0 <\/span>She had never seen any pictures of Jillian as Ben was retired by the time she was born, but she had heard about her on the many occasions Ben and she would talk on the telephone or over coffee.\u00a0 <\/span>She couldn\u2019t believe how big Jason and Emily had gotten.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily was just a newborn when Ben had his first heart attack and had to retire. <\/span><\/p>\n

She then moved on to speak with Hoss and Joe and meet their families.\u00a0 <\/span>The boys had always loved Ben\u2019s former secretary because she was loyal and always took such good care of him.\u00a0 <\/span>They often had hoped maybe once their father retired he and Lana would fall in love and marry, but they only remained good friends.<\/span><\/p>\n

The evening was long but filled with many laughs and fond memories of a friend, colleague, business partner, and boss.\u00a0 <\/span>It brought great pride to Adam, Hoss, and Joe, to hear such wonderful stories about their father.\u00a0 <\/span>Some they knew, others they heard for the first time. <\/span><\/p>\n

Before Lana left, Adam took her aside and asked her to please come to his house the next day as he wanted her to ride with the family to the funeral and he also wanted her to be present at the burial.\u00a0 <\/span>She had been Ben\u2019s right hand from the first day he opened Cartwright, Inc. and didn\u2019t leave his father\u2019s side until he retired. <\/span><\/p>\n

Wednesday morning had arrived before everyone knew it.\u00a0 <\/span>The funeral was at 10:00 A.M. and everyone was ready when the limos arrived.\u00a0 <\/span>Lana came a bit early, so Adam invited her into the kitchen to share a cup of coffee with her as they reminisced about\u00a0the first years at Cartwright, Inc. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy father was very lucky to find you when he did.\u00a0 <\/span>The beginnings were rough at times.\u00a0 <\/span>Dad was tough as nails as he tried to establish himself in the cattle and timber industry, but once he did, he was a force to be reckoned with.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Adam, I can tell you about the many times your father and I would have major disagreements about things and I would threaten to leave him if he didn\u2019t straighten up.\u00a0 <\/span>He would always raise those eyebrows of his and point to the door telling me not to let the door hit me in my fanny on the way out.\u00a0 <\/span>I could never have left your father; he was too good to me!\u00a0 <\/span>It was tough at times, though.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFrom the way I hear it, it was you who repeatedly saved sales for Dad.\u00a0 <\/span>He would get short tempered with some of those vendors and want to tell them where to go stick their contracts and such, but you would smooth their ruffled feathers and Dad would have another successful sale.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour father mellowed over the years, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>It was hard for him at first; just like when you suddenly had to assume the top position with a young wife and baby at home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou helped me a lot with the business side of things.\u00a0 <\/span>When you retired, I never thought I would find a replacement as loyal as you were to Dad.\u00a0 <\/span>I was grateful you helped me find a replacement with Heather.\u00a0 <\/span>You knew what I needed more than I did.”<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was nothing, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>I felt I owed it to you and Ben to make sure you were well taken care of before I departed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica came into the kitchen and greeted Lana with a smile and good morning, as she went to turn on the tea kettle, but Adam said he already had her a pot ready, and all she needed to do was pour the water into a cup.\u00a0 <\/span>She kissed him, thanked him, and poured a cup of hot water over a tea bag.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason and Brianna were the next to come in the kitchen.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica pulled two mugs out of the cupboard and Brianna opened a tea bag pouch while Jason poured himself a cup of coffee.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, I remember you when you were just an infant and look at you now, you\u2019re all grown up and have a lovely fianc\u00e9e. \u00a0I know your grandfather was proud of you.\u00a0 <\/span>He loved you very much.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Mrs. Lana.\u00a0 <\/span>I miss him greatly.\u00a0 <\/span>Apart from my parents, he was my strongest mentor.\u00a0 <\/span>He was always there for me when I was a kid and even as an adult.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m just thankful Brie got to meet him before he died.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The doorbell rang, and Emily yelled from the front of the house that she would get it because she knew it was Trey. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily!\u00a0 <\/span>Don\u2019t yell!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said as she briskly walked out of the kitchen to the front of the house, leaving her cup of tea on the island.<\/span><\/p>\n

Lana laughed.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI see Miss Emily is like her Grandfather; she loves to yell!\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMuch to her mother\u2019s chagrin,\u201d Adam laughed.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cShe\u2019s always getting on her about yelling in the house.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Once everyone had arrived, they all gathered to get into the limousine for the funeral at the church.<\/span><\/p>\n

As they arrived, the hearse was already parked near the entrance. \u00a0The funeral director was waiting for Adam, Jason, and his brothers to arrive.\u00a0 <\/span>The other two pallbearers, Larry, and another executive of the company, were waiting with the funeral director.\u00a0 <\/span>Hoss and Joe\u2019s limousines pulled up just behind Adam\u2019s.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once everyone was present, the boys removed the casket from the hearse and placed it on the stand which would hold the casket during the service. \u00a0The mourners were already seated in the church, and the organist was playing\u00a0soft somber music. <\/span><\/p>\n

When the family was ready to process in, the minister asked everyone to stand and face the rear of the church.\u00a0 <\/span>The minister said a prayer over the casket and the organ began to play the processional song as the minister, and pallbearers escorted the casket in with the families behind. <\/span><\/p>\n

Everyone took their seats, and an opening prayer was said.\u00a0 <\/span>A few senior executives from the company read a few of Ben’s favorite scriptures from the Bible and then it was time for the eulogies. <\/span><\/p>\n

Several people got up to speak and tell how knowing Ben had changed their lives, whether he was a mentor, friend, or business associate.\u00a0 <\/span>As the final speaker, Jason got up to give the eulogy of his beloved grandfather.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy grandfather, my Poppy,\u201d Jason began, having to stop and hold back the tears, \u201cMy Poppy was a man of enormous strength, a pillar of the community, and my mentor.\u00a0 <\/span>As a young boy, when life seemed so unfair to me at times, my Poppy would take me into his arms and tell me stories of when he, my father, and two uncles didn\u2019t have much money and struggled to make their business grow.\u00a0 <\/span>The beginning was difficult and her never realized how difficult it would be to keep his company going, it always seemed the other guy got all the glory, and he got all the pain.\u00a0 <\/span>He felt the weight of his employees on his shoulders; their hopes, their dreams, the future of their families all counted on his success.\u00a0 <\/span>He once said to me, We dream about the path to a fabulous life and it’s good intentions, but we only seem to find the potholes along the way.\u00a0 <\/span>Those pot holes contain the character you’ll need to grow within yourself to become a mighty, well-rounded adult<\/em>.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span>When I was graduating high school and got accepted to my top two choices for college; Harvard, where my parents went, and the college I truly wanted to attend, M.I.T.,\u00a0\u00a0<\/span>I didn\u2019t know how I would break it to them I wanted to attend M.I.T. over Harvard.\u00a0 <\/span>So naturally I looked to my Poppy for advice and again, he didn\u2019t fail me.\u00a0 <\/span>He gave me advice which gave me the strength to go home and tell my mom and dad I wanted to go to M.I.T. instead of Harvard.\u00a0 <\/span>When I knew I had met the girl I wanted to marry, I again spoke to my grandfather and sought his advice about love and marriage that only he could give, since he’d loved, married, and lost three amazing women.\u00a0 <\/span>Again, he knew those words of wisdom I needed to hear to know I was making the right decision, and I\u2019m now engaged to be married to the most beautiful woman; apart from my mother, that is,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>The congregation laughed with him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know my father will be the same amazing Poppy to my children his father was to me. I\u2019ll miss those talks when I need a swift kick in the pants or just a sympathetic ear to listen to my fears.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll always treasure the memories of weekends spent at the Ponderosa with my dad and Poppy when we would go horseback riding or sing songs by the lake after a picnic lunch.\u00a0 <\/span>Now his words of wisdom have fallen silent, but his love and the memories I shared with him will live on in my heart forever.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>There was a long pause, and Jason began to break down as he looked at the casket.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI love you, Poppy. I\u2019m going to miss you.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Jason pulled his handkerchief from his pocket and wiped his eyes as he came and took his seat next to Brianna.\u00a0 <\/span>As he passed by the casket, he touched his fingers to his mouth, kissed them and then touched them to the coffin. <\/span><\/p>\n

The minister sat for a few minutes allowing everyone to gain control of their emotions.\u00a0 <\/span>He finally rose, and before he gave his final blessing on Ben\u2019s body, he reminded everybody of the lunch and gathering celebrating Ben’s life at the main house.\u00a0 <\/span>He told the guests the maps to the Ponderosa were in the back of the church.\u00a0 <\/span>He then gave the congregation a final blessing as he sent them forth. <\/span><\/p>\n

The organist played the recessional song and the pallbearers lined up to escort Ben\u2019s body back to the hearse where he would be taken back to the funeral home overnight until the private burial the next day.<\/span><\/p>\n

Thursday was a bright sunshine day with a slight breeze as the family gathered at the burial grounds on the Ponderosa where Ben\u2019s body would be laid to rest next to his second and third wives.\u00a0 <\/span>The funeral home had come up the previous day and dug Ben’s interment.\u00a0 <\/span>The family gathered around the graveside as Adam, his two brothers, Jason, and two other honorary pallbearers brought Ben\u2019s casket to its final resting place.\u00a0 <\/span>The minister said a final blessing over Ben\u2019s casket and the men took their boutonni\u00e8res off and put them on top of the coffin.\u00a0 <\/span>The ladies each had a red long stemmed rose to signify the everlasting love they felt for Ben and they, too, placed their roses on top of the casket before lowering into the ground.\u00a0 <\/span>When the coffin lowered into the ground, Adam, Hoss, and Joe picked up a handful of dirt and tossed it into the grave over Ben\u2019s casket.<\/span><\/p>\n

The family walked away and headed back toward the house where the reading of Ben’s will would take place after brunch.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam turned to take one final look and realized Jason was still standing at the grave looking down into the hole at his grandfather\u2019s casket.\u00a0 <\/span>He started to walk back to his son, but Brianna stopped him and asked him to stay with her until Jason was ready to let go completely.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason’s had a hard time accepting his grandfather\u2019s death, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Since the call, he has hardly been able to sleep or eat.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m so worried about him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam took Brianna into his arms and held her close.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cJason was extremely close to his grandfather.\u00a0 <\/span>When his mother and I were divorced, he and Emily would come and spend every other weekend and parts of the summer up here with me on the Ponderosa.\u00a0 <\/span>My father knew how hard the divorce was on Jason, and he helped him tremendously in those few years.\u00a0 <\/span>After Jessica and I remarried, Jason would sometimes spend weekends with his Poppy; just the two of them.\u00a0 <\/span>He needed that time with him, and I\u2019m so thankful we always allowed him to go whenever he needed and wanted to.\u00a0 <\/span>My father always welcomed his grandchildren whenever they wanted to come up and spend the weekend.\u00a0 <\/span>He would take them horseback riding, fishing, and hiking. He even had them help out on the ranch when they got older.\u00a0 <\/span>They loved it, and they loved him.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason, however, had a unique and extraordinary bond with his Poppy, and I knew his death would be a severe blow to him.\u00a0 <\/span>Just love him, Brie.\u00a0 <\/span>He needs to feel your love more than ever now.\u00a0 <\/span>He\u2019ll be okay in time.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t have to worry about me loving him, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>I love him so very much and will help him through this time of mourning.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason stood a few minutes longer and he finally took out his handkerchief, wiped his eyes and headed back to where Brianna and Adam were standing.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam took his son into his arms and held him tight. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re here for you anytime of the day or night, Son.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna is here for you, too.\u00a0 <\/span>Let her love you, and it will help you through your loss.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll always be here for you, Jason,\u201d Brianna whispered as she took his hand. \u201cuntil my dying breath, I\u2019ll be by your side, loving you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason smiled as he placed his arm around his beloved, and said, \u201cLet\u2019s go back to the house.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/p>\n

After brunch, Adam and Larry gathered everyone around for the reading of the will.\u00a0 <\/span>Larry explained the will was Ben\u2019s wishes for his estate after his death and as executor, Adam would be the one to ensure to fulfill those requests.\u00a0 <\/span>Larry began reading the will, explaining what parts of his estate went where.\u00a0 <\/span>Each of the boys got special mementos which had been each of their mother\u2019s.\u00a0 <\/span>The grandchildren received plots of land on which to build homes when they grew up and got married. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe final wish Ben had in his life was something which said a lot about who Ben Cartwright was,\u201d Larry continued.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cThis house, in which we sit today, was built with the blood, sweat, and tears of Ben Cartwright and his eldest son, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>When he came west after the birth of his first son, and losing his wife, Elizabeth, Ben wanted to build a new life for himself and Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>He lived with Adam in a small apartment in Carson City for many years, working and saving his money to start his own business and build his empire.\u00a0 <\/span>He bought a small piece of this great land now known as the Ponderosa and built a small house, where he began Cartwright, Inc.\u00a0 <\/span>Through the years, the company grew as did Ben\u2019s land.\u00a0 <\/span>After Adam had returned home from Harvard, he designed and helped Ben construct this house we are sitting in today.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam lived in this house until he was married.\u00a0 <\/span>Hoss and Joe, too, lived here until they were married.\u00a0 <\/span>Ben loved this house; he loved his land, and most of all, he loved his family.\u00a0 <\/span>When Ben met Jason\u2019s girlfriend, Brianna, he knew she was someone special, someone befitting of his grandson\u2019s love and devotion.\u00a0 <\/span>Ben was thrilled to know Jason had found his life partner and hoped when the day came, he would be well enough to travel to see them married, but it was never meant to be.\u00a0 <\/span>Ben\u2019s final gift he could give his eldest grandson is the home he and his father built together.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason, your grandfather, has willed this house to you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason sat in shock. Brianna started to cry tears of happiness.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason said as he swallowed hard and looked over at Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, this is what Poppy wanted.\u00a0 <\/span>He wanted you to have this house.\u00a0 <\/span>Hoss, Joe, and I couldn\u2019t imagine it going to anyone else.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh my gosh, I don\u2019t know what to say!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason said, still in complete shock.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSay you will make it your’s and Brianna\u2019s home after marriage and graduation, Honey,\u201d Jessica said smiling with tears flowing down her face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, I’m so happy for you!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily said smiling. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI, I, I just don\u2019t know what to say!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPoppy wanted to leave something unique and special to you as the eldest grandchild.\u00a0 <\/span>He saw the love between you and Brianna, and he couldn\u2019t imagine anything more than to have the next generation of Cartwright\u2019s grow up here and fill it with love,\u201d Adam stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI just assumed…\u201d Jason started.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAssumed it would go to me?\u00a0 <\/span>Adam interrupted.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cBecause I designed the house and helped build it?\u00a0 <\/span>Your mother and I have a home, and it\u2019s perfect for just the two of us after you three are on your own.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd we\u2019ll be close by to watch our grandchildren grow up here in a house which has always had and will continue to have love overflowing,<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m just so overwhelmed!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason said as his face of sadness was warming to a face of happiness.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen our father told Joe and me what his wish was for this house, we couldn\u2019t think of a better person to receive it.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam didn\u2019t know about any of this until a few days ago, Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>Dad had talked to me about it first, and then he spoke to Joe, and he agreed also that you and Brianna should have this house to start your family in,\u201d Hoss explained.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBesides, we all have homes built here on the Ponderosa and Adam and I pretty much live in the city full-time only coming up here on weekends and during the summer,\u201d Joe added.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe estate will take care of the tax burden and other associated costs which accompany the transfer to you, Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>Your grandfather\u2019s only wish is you continue with school until you graduate.\u00a0 <\/span>Once you\u2019re married, the house will become yours.\u00a0 <\/span>Until that time, it will be held in trust, and the trust will see to its upkeep.\u00a0 <\/span>You’re welcome to live here when you come home for the summer holidays and any other times you’re home if you choose,”\u00a0 <\/span>Larry added.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re always welcome home in Carson City as well, Honey,\u201d Jessica made it clear to her son.<\/span><\/p>\n

After a long day at the Ponderosa, the family headed back home to Carson City.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason and Brianna spoke about their plans for the house once they were married.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason planned to spend the next few days talking to his father about visions he and Brianna would have for the house after graduation and marriage<\/span><\/p>\n

The week had been long and exhausting for Adam and Jessica. They decided to turn in early.\u00a0 <\/span>The kids were wide awake and had teamed up to play Trivial Pursuit<\/em><\/strong>.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam allowed Trey to stay as long as Jason and Brianna were awake.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam and Jessica kissed their three children and Brianna goodnight. Adam shook Trey\u2019s hand, and Jessica gave him a kiss on the cheek, hugged him and wished him a good night.\u00a0 <\/span>The two parents went back to their room and could hear the kids talking about how much they all loved their Poppy, how much they would miss him, and how they were sad Trey never had the chance to meet him. <\/span><\/p>\n

It warmed Adam\u2019s heart to know his children could now talk about their grandfather with love and smiles instead of tears.\u00a0 <\/span>He was aware that there would be many more days when he would shed tears in private as he learned to adjust to life without his mentor and friend.\u00a0 <\/span>He smiled when he thought about his father in Heaven smiling down upon him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou taught me well, Dad,\u201d Adam said as he gazed out the window before closing the shutters and getting into bed with the woman he loved.<\/span><\/p>\n

Chapter Fifteen<\/b><\/p>\n

Upon returning to Massachusetts after Ben\u2019s funeral, Jason and Brianna talked about life without Jason\u2019s Poppy in their lives.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason was still coming to terms with the thought he didn\u2019t have his elder mentor to talk to anymore.\u00a0 <\/span>He often called his grandfather and shared his life at college and how his relationship with Brianna was progressing.\u00a0 <\/span>Knowing Ben was not going to be physically at his wedding now was an adjustment for Jason to realize.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the weeks passed and the summer gave way to fall, Jason and Brianna prepared to return to school.\u00a0 <\/span>The couple decided it was best to postpone their wedding until after college.\u00a0 <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Adam, <\/span>Jessica, Anthony, and Theresa were relieved their children decided to wait until after they graduated to get married since they felt it was best to concentrate on school and get through school first.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The couple made plans to spend Thanksgiving at Brianna\u2019s family home in Connecticut and come back to Nevada for the winter break and spend Christmas together in their new home on the Ponderosa.\u00a0 <\/span>They felt they needed to be with Jason\u2019s family for this first Christmas without their patriarch, Ben.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason knew he needed to call his parents to let them know for the first time he would not be spending Thanksgiving with his family, and now that Brianna was his fianc\u00e9e, they would be splitting their holidays between the two families.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHave you called your parents to let them know you won\u2019t be coming home for Thanksgiving, Jason?\u201d asked Brianna.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHave you called your parents to let them know you won\u2019t be home for Christmas?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason retorted. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was only a question, Jason, you don\u2019t have to bite my head off,\u201d Brianna replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Babe,\u201d Jason\u2019s voice softened, holding out his arms for Brianna to come and enter his embrace.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI hate hurting my mother and I know this will come as a blow to her.\u00a0 <\/span>Dad is still coming to terms with Poppy\u2019s death, and I\u2019ll be adding to their hurt by telling them I won\u2019t be home for the first big holiday since his death.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, I\u2019m concerned with how it will affect them, too.\u00a0 <\/span>If you feel it\u2019s important to be home with your family, we\u2019ll just have to spend Thanksgiving apart this year.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna hung her head trying to shield her disappointment at the thought of not spending the first major holiday together as an engaged couple.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, this is not an option.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re my future wife; I won\u2019t be spending Thanksgiving without you.\u00a0 <\/span>My parents will have to understand; Poppy would understand.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna looked up at Jason with loving eyes.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI love you, Babe…\u201d her voice trailed off as her emotions took over.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason\u2019s face grew long, seeing his beloved\u2019s eyes fill with tears.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cDon\u2019t cry, my beautiful bride, I can\u2019t imagine spending a holiday without you; it\u2019s not an option I wouldn\u2019t even consider.\u00a0 <\/span>Our parents will have to realize you and I are now building our family and at times we\u2019ll be spending holidays apart.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll give my parents a call after we speak with Adam and Jessica about Thanksgiving.\u00a0 <\/span>They need to know we\u2019ll be spending Christmas in Nevada this year.\u00a0 <\/span>I know they\u2019ll understand why we need to be with your family at Christmas.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason smiled and kissed Brianna on her forehead.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWe don\u2019t need to tell them about Christmas until after Thanksgiving.\u00a0 <\/span>We can talk with them on the Friday after to let them know our plans unless it comes up before the holidays.\u00a0 <\/span>Ready to give Mom and Dad a call?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna smiled and said, \u201cI should ask you, are YOU ready?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you kidding?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason laughed as he led Brianna to their home phone to dial his parents and break the news about their holiday plans.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason picked up the receiver and dialed Adam and Jessica back in Nevada.\u00a0 <\/span>The evening was still early because of the three-hour time zone difference.\u00a0 <\/span>The phone rang two times when Jillian <\/span>answered the phone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHello?\u201d Jillian\u2019s young voice answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Peanut, how are you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason! I don\u2019t think I\u2019m going to like fifth grade, it\u2019s hard!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPeanut, you\u2019re going to do great!\u00a0 <\/span>If we can help, call us anytime, okay?\u201d Brianna entered the conversation.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Brie! I miss you!\u201d Jillian said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe both miss you, too!\u201d Jason interjected.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cAre Mom and Dad home?\u00a0 <\/span>Can I talk to them?”<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWho\u2019s on the phone, Sweetpea?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam\u2019s voice could be heard over the phone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s Jason and Brie, Daddy!\u00a0 <\/span>He called to talk to you and Mommy,\u201d Jillian responded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGo get Mommy and tell her Jason\u2019s on the phone and to get the extension,\u201d Adam said as he took the phone from Jillian.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy!\u00a0 <\/span>Jason and Brie are on the phone, they want to talk to you and Daddy!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian yelled as she ran toward the kitchen where Jessica was getting dinner underway.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica picked up the extension in the kitchen and ordered Jillian to quit yelling in the house.<\/span><\/p>\n

When Jessica came on the phone, she listened as Jason spoke to Adam about the engineering class he was taking and the challenging syllabus the professor handed out for the semester.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMom are you on now?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason asked after he had completed his conversation about school.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Honey!\u00a0 <\/span>How is school going?\u00a0 <\/span>You and Brie get settled back into school okay?\u00a0 <\/span>Sounds like quite a class you\u2019re taking.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, Mom, it is, but I can handle it; it won\u2019t be any problem, just going to take a massive amount of studying to stay on top of all my classes this semester, that\u2019s all…Mom, Dad, Brie and I called tonight because we need to share something with you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou took some tough classes in high school, Jason, I know you can handle it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Dad, I appreciate your faith in me.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Jason got quiet, he didn\u2019t know how to approach telling his parents he wouldn\u2019t be home for Thanksgiving.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna looked at Jason with a look as if to say, \u2018Tell them!\u00a0 <\/span>You need to just come out and say it.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMom, Dad, Brianna and I have been making plans for the holidays.\u00a0 <\/span>I know this is a tough time for our family because we lost Poppy this summer; however, the reason for my call tonight is to tell you Brianna and I have decided we need to spend Thanksgiving at Brianna\u2019s home this year.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019re planning to come back to Nevada when the semester is over in December and spend Christmas and the new year at home. \u00a0 <\/span>With our engagement, we have two families we need to share our time with, so we’ve decided with this being the first holiday since Poppy\u2019s death, we need to spend Christmas in Nevada and Thanksgiving in Connecticut.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam saw Jessica come from the kitchen with a stunned look on her face.\u00a0 <\/span>She glared at Adam with a look for him to intervene, but she could also see a level of hurt in his face, too.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSon,\u201d Adam began, \u201cwhile we want nothing more than for you two to be home with us this holiday, in particular, we realize you have a fianc\u00e9e which means we have to share you with Brianna\u2019s family.\u00a0 <\/span>Both of you will be missed greatly, but I know this is what Poppy would want for you as well.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour father is right, Honey,\u201d Jessica spoke up, \u201cit will be a hard first holiday for us, however, it would only be fair to Brianna and her family that you spend time with them at Thanksgiving since you\u2019re planning to be here at Christmas.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you so much, Adam and Jessica,\u201d Brianna spoke up with a great sigh of relief in her voice.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cJason and I were dreading this phone call, but we felt it was the best solution for both families, and I know my family will understand why we want to spend Christmas in Nevada this year.\u00a0 <\/span>They know how important Poppy was to Jason and how his death has been devastating to him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll call you when we know everyone is together, and we\u2019ll speak to everyone and wish them a Happy Thanksgiving,\u201d Jason said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSounds like a plan, Son,\u201d Adam said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSweetheart, I have to get off the phone now; I need to get dinner finished.\u00a0 <\/span>I love you both.\u00a0 <\/span>Please call again soon.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said, dreading to cut the phone call short.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, Mom, we love you, too, what are you making?\u201d Jason asked, wishing he could be home to indulge on his mother\u2019s home cooking.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOne of your favorites, Honey.\u00a0 <\/span>Prime rib roast.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYum, I\u2019m jealous!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica laughed.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI\u2019ll make sure we have a large crown roast for Christmas.\u00a0 <\/span>Take care, love you!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica hung up the phone and went back into the kitchen to tend to dinner which was coming together.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad,\u201d Jason said after his mother was off the phone, \u201cthanks for understanding.\u00a0 <\/span>It really was hard for us to come to this decision.\u00a0 <\/span>We really appreciate you and Mom understanding.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, I had to make a hard decision my first year in college when I decided whether to come home for Thanksgiving or spend Thanksgiving with your mother at her home.\u00a0 <\/span>I hated making the same call to Poppy.\u00a0 <\/span>He was disappointed, and made me explain it to my brothers; I think I told you this story…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Dad, you did.\u00a0 <\/span>I told Brianna your story when we were deciding what we were going to do.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll miss you, but we\u2019ll be okay.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll all be together, and Poppy will be with us in spirit.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s getting late, Dad, and I don\u2019t want Mom getting upset with me making you late to dinner,\u201d Jason laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, Son, thanks for calling.\u00a0 <\/span>Love to you and Brie, take care and call again soon.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBye, Dad, bye, Adam,\u201d Jason and Brianna said together as they hung up the phone.<\/span><\/p>\n

After Adam had hung up the phone, he walked into the kitchen where he found Jessica cutting up fresh fruit for the dessert wiping tears from her eyes before they could roll down her cheeks.\u00a0 <\/span>She saw Adam enter.\u00a0 <\/span>She stopped, and looked at him with a pout on her face and came over to him, needing a hug from the love of her life.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt sucks letting your babies go,\u201d she said as she buried her face in Adam\u2019s chest.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam wrapped his arms around Jessica\u2019s form, holding her close, trying to stay strong for his wife, pushing down his own sadness.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam felt his emotions trying to escape, and he sighed deeply pulling Jessica back asking if she needed any help with dinner.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve got it under control right now, Babe.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll give you a call if I need anything in a little bit.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam kissed Jessica on her forehead and patted her on the bum telling her he was going to the office to work on contracts he brought home for the weekend, and she could find him in there if she needed him.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam walked back to the study and closed the door behind him.\u00a0 <\/span>He sat down, pulled out the paperwork from his briefcase, put on his reading glasses and tried to concentrate on the papers he had before him.\u00a0 <\/span>Behind the safety of closed doors, Adam succumbed to his emotions at not having his family complete on the first holiday following his father\u2019s death.\u00a0 <\/span>He took his glasses off and put his face in his hands, trying not to completely break down.\u00a0 <\/span>He’d been strong while assisting his brothers and the company lawyers finalize everything that was Ben\u2019s life.\u00a0 <\/span>He stuffed his emotions deep into his soul, remaining stoic as the new patriarch of the Cartwright family.\u00a0 <\/span>He now sat alone in the safety of his home; alone with the memories of his life as the eldest son, husband, and father.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam was lost in his own sadness and didn\u2019t hear Jessica enter.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica saw Adam\u2019s form slumped over his desk; she could hear soft weeping coming from the man she loved.\u00a0 <\/span>She walked over to him and placed her hands on his shoulders and rested her head against his.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet it out, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019ve been so strong for the entire family for so long, it\u2019s time you let it all out before it consumes you,\u201d Jessica said with a quiet, comforting voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know why Jason not coming home for Thanksgiving is affecting me this way, they\u2019ll be home for Christmas.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Sweetheart.\u201d Jessica continued to hold her husband, now being the one to comfort her spouse.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam was finally able to gain control of his emotions and sat up in his chair, pulling a tissue from the box sitting on the desk and wiping his eyes. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you ready to eat, Sweetheart?\u201d Jessica asked, still stroking Adam\u2019s balding head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah,\u201d Adam was able to finally speak as he took Jessica\u2019s hand and kissed her palm.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI don\u2019t want to tell the girls about Jason not coming home for Thanksgiving…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHear me out, Jess,\u201d Adam protested as he tried to explain why he wanted to keep the disappointing news from Emily and Jillian until a later time.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cEmily\u2019s birthday is just around the corner…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd we can\u2019t upset your Princess now can we!\u201d Jessica interrupted again with annoyance in her voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh come on, Jess, what do you mean by that statement?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam\u2019s voice was reaching the same level of annoyance as Jessica\u2019s.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica\u2019s voice and face softened, \u201cI\u2019m sorry, Adam, I just don\u2019t understand what Emily\u2019s birthday has to do with telling the girls their brother won\u2019t be home for Thanksgiving, especially with it being the first holiday without their Poppy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJessica, I\u2019m not saying we\u2019ll never tell them, I\u2019m saying I want to wait until after Emily\u2019s birthday, that\u2019s all.\u00a0 <\/span>This is her sixteenth birthday, you and Emily keep telling me what a significant birthday it is for her.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t want to put a dark cloud over her special day with news about her brother not coming home until Christmas.\u00a0 <\/span>It can wait until the next day.\u00a0 <\/span>Our girls have had enough loss in their lives for a little while.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI suppose you\u2019re right, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>I want to break the news to them the next day, though, I don\u2019t feel comfortable holding the information from them any longer.\u00a0 <\/span>Agreed?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Jessica, agreed,\u201d Adam said as he took Jessica into his arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Adam and Jessica came out of the study arm in arm and smiling, they were met by their soon to be birthday girl in the hall; she was dressed in her workout uniform as she had just arrived from cheer practice.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily looked at her parents with a skeptical look.\u00a0 <\/span>Folding her arms around the curves of her waist she responded, \u201cIn the study, Mommy and Daddy? I sometimes do my homework in there, geesh!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam, feeling better, decided to lighten things up even more at his daughter\u2019s expense once again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Princess, look at your mother, she has a lace apron on with an M.I.T. Mom<\/em> T-shirt, stonewashed jeans, and her hair pulled up in a clip; the sexiness of her form came over me and, well, I lost all control. \u00a0 <\/span>We got it on right there on the desk in the study.\u00a0 <\/span>You want to come see the mess we made?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam motioned as he put his hand on the knob of the study to open the door.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy! You\u2019re impossible! My virgin ears!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily said putting her hands on her ears.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cYou\u2019re so inappropriate!\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam could hardly keep a straight face; his daughter was trying to turn the tables on the man who was the king of teasing his children.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m inappropriate?\u00a0 <\/span>I think your statement is slightly calling the kettle black, wouldn\u2019t you say? Whatever happened to, \u2018Hi Mommy and Daddy, how was your day? Dinner sure smells good, I\u2019m starving!\u2019\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Daddy, it\u2019s just you and Mommy, well, you\u2019re so easy to tease!\u201d Emily winked and continued on to her room laughing uncontrollably. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stood stunned, and Jessica\u2019s eyes were large as saucers, and she started to snicker under her breath, finding it hard to hold her laughter at the father-daughter banter.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked at Jessica in disbelief.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPrincess one, Daddy, zero,\u201d she said as she started to walk away laughing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh yeah?\u201d Adam said grabbing her hand, picking her up and putting her over his shoulder, screaming and laughing as he took her into the kitchen.<\/span><\/p>\n

When he reached the kitchen, Adam put Jessica on her feet and took her into his arms.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHow about I score with my sexy wife tonight in the bedroom.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShall I wear the apron?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica modeled her apron which read, Happy Wife, Happy Life.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam took Jessica into his arms, kissing her tenderly on her lips, \u201cAs long as you aren\u2019t wearing anything under it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Adam Cartwright,\u201d Jessica laughed, kissing her growling husband.<\/span><\/p>\n

She broke the embrace to tend to the dinner which was ready to plate and put on the table.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam called his daughters to come and help set the table and came back to tend to the roast beef while Jessica put the fresh green beans and roasted carrots in bowls.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the four Cartwrights sat at the table and began to plate their food to eat, Emily brought up the fact her sixteenth birthday was quickly approaching, and she would be able to finally have a proper date out with Trey.\u00a0 <\/span>She also would be able to take her driving test and, in her mind, free up her mother from being a taxi to take her to school and other places. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJenni brought me home in her brand new BMW tonight; it\u2019s gorgeous!\u00a0 <\/span>Her parents are so hip and awesome.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked at Emily as he chewed his meat, thinking of precisely how he wanted to respond to his daughter\u2019s strong hint of wanting a new car for her sixteenth birthday.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf you think you\u2019re getting a BMW for your birthday, my dear, keep dreaming,\u201d Adam said as he cut another piece of meat to put it in his mouth.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I want an Infinity Q60 Coupe,\u201d Emily said very casually as she stabbed a carrot to eat.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica sat quietly and looked at Adam, waiting to see what his reply would be.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cQ60, huh?\u201d was Adam\u2019s simple answer as he cut his green beans and held the fork to his mouth, waiting for Emily\u2019s response.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian could feel the air thicken and looked over at her mother who winked at her smiling, letting her know everything was okay, and her father had complete control of the conversation.\u00a0 <\/span>She smiled and continued to eat as she looked across the table at Emily waiting to see what she would say next.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah,\u201d Emily continued eating, not looking up to see the look on Adam\u2019s face. \u201cQ60 Coupe, Daddy, I don\u2019t want a 4-door sedan, they\u2019re for parentals like you and Mommy; the coupe is for young people like me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI see,\u201d Adam said, trying to keep a straight face as he looked over at Jessica.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re now parentals, Em?\u201d Jessica entered into the conversation.<\/span><\/p>\n

For the first time Emily looked up and rolled her eyes smiling as she said, \u201cOh, Mommy, you know what I mean don\u2019t you? The sedan is for the elders.\u00a0 <\/span>Young people like me want a sporty two door.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I see, we\u2019re elders, not parentals, is that what you\u2019re saying, Honey?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNO, Mommy! That\u2019s not what I\u2019m saying at all.\u00a0 <\/span>What I\u2019m saying is, I want a two door coupe as most of my friends to have.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo Jenni\u2019s BMW is a two door coupe, Princess?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam entered back into the conversation.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian tried to keep a straight face as she would look at her mother, then her father, and finally her sister, who was still oblivious to the fact her parents were boxing her in and would release on her when she was surrounded with no escape.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Daddy, she has a 325i four door sedan,\u201d she responded back without looking up as she cut her meat.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, so she\u2019s got a parental car? I thought you said it was gorgeous, and her parents are, what did she tell you, Jess, hip and awesome?\u201d Adam asked. <\/span><\/p>\n

Emily stopped eating and finally looked up at Adam, still oblivious to where the conversation was leading, and it wasn\u2019t going in the direction she hoped.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy, she\u2019s hip and cool, she just wanted a four door car, but still, it\u2019s a Beemer, so this gives her a pass that it\u2019s a four-door,\u201d Emily winked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh! I see,\u201d said Adam enlightened.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cSo, Mommy, what do you think.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily says she wants a brand new Q60…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cQ60 Coupe, Adam,\u201d Jessica interrupted, hardly able to keep a straight face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJess, when was it we got the Lexus for you? It\u2019s been awhile, I don\u2019t recall what year your car is.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was about ten years ago.\u00a0 <\/span>I was very pregnant with Jillian, and you wanted to get a new SUV since the family was expanding.\u201d Jessica casually said as she finished eating her green beans.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh yes, now I remember.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour Porsche is about 12 years old, Adam,\u201d Jessica reminded her husband, knowing why he was asking.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily started to catch on to her parents, and she stopped eating.\u00a0 <\/span>She looked at her mother and then her father.\u00a0 <\/span>They stared back at her; both with a raised eyebrow.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh wait a minute, Daddy,\u201d Emily put her fork down on her plate, \u201cYou\u2019re not going to make me drive Jason\u2019s Rav4 are you?\u00a0 <\/span>Please, Daddy, no! I\u2019ll be the laughing stock of the school!\u00a0 <\/span>They know you\u2019re CEO of Cartwright, Incorporated, it\u2019s no secret we\u2019re, uh, not hurting for money.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEMILY!\u201d Jessica was exasperated. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam put his hand up at Jessica, motioning he had complete control of the conversation though he was beginning to lose his temper with his daughter, he remained calm and collected.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFirst of all, young lady…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOooh, young lady, not Princess.\u201d Jillian quietly said.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam shot a glare to his youngest daughter and started to say something, but Jessica stepped in.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJillian, that\u2019s enough, you\u2019re excused from the table.\u00a0 <\/span>Please leave your plate, go take a bath and get ready for bed,\u201d Jessica ordered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, sorry!\u201d Jillian said sarcastically as she got up from the table and headed toward her bathroom.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Jessica both turned their attention back to their middle child.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily, the fact I\u2019m CEO of a company and the economic situation our family is not yours or anyone else\u2019s business.\u00a0 <\/span>My title and our economic status have no bearing on what type of automobile you will drive and, no, you will not be driving Jason\u2019s Rav4.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s his car, and when your mother and I feel you\u2019re ready for a car of your own, we\u2019ll be taking Jason\u2019s car to the Ponderosa so it\u2019ll be there for him to drive when he\u2019s home and to make room in the garage for yours.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo you\u2019re saying I\u2019m not getting a car when I turn sixteen, Daddy?\u201d Emily\u2019s voice became worried.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s not what Daddy said, Emily Elizabeth,\u201d Jessica noted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat I\u2019m saying is, my dear daughter, when we get you a car, it will not be a BMW, it will not be an Infinity Q60 or any other luxury car.\u00a0 <\/span>It will be, however, a new car, as we feel you need reliable and safe transportation.\u00a0 <\/span>I won\u2019t spend sixty thousand dollars on your first car and certainly not when you\u2019re only sixteen,\u201d Adam finally burst his daughter\u2019s bubble.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily could see her father\u2019s eyes were changing from an amber-hazel color to a dark gray-black, and she knew when his eyes turned, he was holding his anger internally so she decided not to press her luck any further as it might result in no car at all.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNoted, Daddy,\u201d Emily said defeated.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Trying to lighten the mood she turned her little rich girl mentality to one of a grateful child.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMay I please go with you and Mommy when you do look for a car for me?\u00a0 <\/span>I promise I won\u2019t be a pain.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll be grateful for whatever you want to buy for me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoney, how about you turn sixteen and pass your driving test.\u00a0 <\/span>You can\u2019t drive a car by yourself unless you pass your driving test and get your license,\u201d Jessica reminded her daughter.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Mommy, you\u2019re such a buzzkill!\u201d Emily smiled widely.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica laughed and replied, \u201cOh, I thought I was parental.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBuzzkill is an elevated parental, Jess,\u201d Adam winked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Daddy…\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily laughed, \u201cMay I be excused?\u00a0 <\/span>I would like to call Trey.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure, Honey, go ahead,\u201d Jessica said laughing.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Jessica both shook their heads and smiled at each other.\u00a0 <\/span>As they got up from the table and cleared the dishes, Adam said, \u201cDaddy one, Princess one.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica and Adam cleaned the dishes and kitchen then headed back to their room where Adam wanted to make good on the promise he had mentioned earlier in the evening.\u00a0 <\/span>They stopped by Jillian\u2019s room, and she was already in bed and sleeping soundly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe first week always does her in by Friday,\u201d Jessica said looking adoringly at her daughter\u2019s sleeping form.<\/span><\/p>\n

The couple closed the door gently and headed to Emily\u2019s room where they knocked quietly.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily answered the door with her phone up to her ear.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHold on, Trey, Mommy and Daddy are here to say goodnight.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily put her phone down, hugged and kissed both of her parents.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam ordered her to not stay up too late, and she promised she wouldn\u2019t. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Jessica entered their bedroom, and Adam headed to the bathroom to start the shower and Jessica headed into the closet.\u00a0 <\/span>She quickly stripped out of her clothes, put the apron back on and headed into the bathroom where she stood in the doorway.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam\u2019s back was to her as he was adjusting the temperature of the water in the shower.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHappy wife, happy life,\u201d Jessica said in a sultry voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam turned around, his eyes widened as his lips curled up into a full-tooth grin.\u00a0 <\/span>He took his wife into his arms, untied the apron, and it puddled to the floor.\u00a0 <\/span>The naked couple stood in each other\u2019s embrace.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA happy wife you shall be and a happy life we will live,\u201d Adam said as he picked up his wife and they entered into the shower, bathed each other and began the foreplay which led to the night of magical lovemaking.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

In the weeks leading up to Emily\u2019s birthday, Trey emailed Adam and asked if it was okay for him to come meet him at his office as he wanted to talk to him about his plans for Emily\u2019s birthday celebration. \u00a0 <\/span>He wanted to make sure he didn\u2019t step on any plans they’d for her special day.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam liked Trey a lot.\u00a0 <\/span>He consistently impressed Adam with his manners and how he was a gentleman to his daughter.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam was in deep concentration with an upcoming timber sale when his admin rang his phone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Heather,\u201d Adam said, pressing the speaker on his phone, not realizing what time it was.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, your 1:30 PM appointment, Trey Hollingsworth, is here to see you.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam looked at his watch and rubbed his head, bewildered by how the time flew.<\/span><\/p>\n

Trey had a short day at school as usually he had football practice the last half of his day, but on game day, there was no practice.<\/p>\n

Adam walked out of his office and found Trey sitting on the sofa across from Heather\u2019s desk.\u00a0 <\/span>He walked over to Trey, and when he saw him, Trey stood and extended his hand to shake Adam\u2019s.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood afternoon, Mr. Cartwright, thank you for seeing me today,\u201d Trey said smiling. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam gestured to the open door leading into his office, \u201cCome in, Trey, let\u2019s talk.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The two men walked into Adam\u2019s office, and he shut the door behind him.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam gestured to the couch across from the conference table at the front of his office.<\/span><\/p>\n

Trey sat down, and Adam sat next to him, crossing his legs.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWhat brings you out to Reno today?\u201d Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Sir, with Emily\u2019s birthday approaching in a few weeks, I wanted to talk to you about the plans I had for that day and wanted to make sure they didn\u2019t interfere with what your family might be planning.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI appreciate you thinking of Jess and me.\u00a0 <\/span>Unless things have changed, we\u2019re planning to meet my brothers and their wives at Adel\u2019s for dinner.\u00a0 <\/span>Adel\u2019s is Emily\u2019s favorite place to eat; you\u2019re invited of course.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Sir, I appreciate it.\u00a0 <\/span>If it meets yours and Mrs. Cartwright\u2019s approval, my plans are to pick Emily up around noon and take her to lunch.\u00a0 <\/span>I have some other surprises in store for her, but I\u2019ll have her home in time so she can get ready for dinner at Adel\u2019s.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cActually, Trey, you could help in the surprise.\u00a0 <\/span>We haven\u2019t told her we\u2019re going to Adel\u2019s just yet.\u00a0 <\/span>If you could let her think you\u2019re going to take her there for dinner, we\u2019ll be waiting there for you two to arrive.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSounds like a plan, Mr. Cartwright,\u201d Trey smiled broadly<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJess and I are planning to buy a car for her birthday present.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll get it to the restaurant and have a big pink bow on the hood of the car.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll give the keys to her in the restaurant and bring her outside to see it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t you think she\u2019ll want to drive it home, Sir?\u201d Trey interjected.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure she will, however, she won\u2019t have her driver\u2019s license yet.\u00a0 <\/span>Since the DMV isn\u2019t open on Saturday, she won\u2019t be able to drive it until Monday, assuming she passes her test.\u00a0 <\/span>Jess is planning to take her on Monday after school.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe told me about the car talk with you and Mrs. Cartwright the other night,\u201d Trey\u2019s face soured.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam laughed.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cYeah, it didn\u2019t turn out the way she wanted.\u00a0 <\/span>She has a pie in the sky idea we\u2019re going to shell out sixty thousand dollars for a luxury car.\u00a0 <\/span>She isn\u2019t taking into account we do have a home at the Ponderosa, and there are times she\u2019ll need to drive up there and during the winter, she\u2019ll need an automobile which will be able to handle the mountains.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe feels as though she needs to keep up the image others at the school have put upon her.\u00a0 <\/span>I keep telling her she only needs to be who she is and not worry about what others think of her.\u00a0 <\/span>I will say this of her, Mr. Cartwright, Emily is very thankful for everything you and Mrs. Cartwright do for her.\u00a0 <\/span>She loves you very much and as much as she would love to have her dream car, the Infinity Q60….\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cQ60 Coupe, she made us very aware it was the coupe she wanted,\u201d Adam laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh yes, she\u2019s often corrected me, too,\u201d Trey smiled in return.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI know she\u2019ll love whatever kind of car you get her.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked at his watch and noted it was 2:00 PM.\u00a0 <\/span>He looked over at Trey with an arched eyebrow and said, \u201cHad lunch yet?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Sir, I have to admit I was a bit nervous to come here and see you, so I felt it best I didn\u2019t eat before I came,\u201d Trey smiled with a hint of crimson shading his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked at Trey with a surprised look.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cDo I intimidate you, Son?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Trey looked off and could feel the warmth on his face and could only imagine how red his face was getting.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Cartwright, I respect you very much, and I really like your daughter, too.\u00a0 <\/span>I…I…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTrey, Mrs. Cartwright and I really like you.\u00a0 <\/span>We feel you are right for our daughter, and she apparently likes you.\u00a0 <\/span>I have two requests.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s that, Sir?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFirst, will you please call me Adam and my wife, Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>Mr. Cartwright was my father.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Adam, I appreciate it, and you said first, is there something else?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I\u2019m hungry, will you join me for lunch?\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam could see Trey\u2019s form relax tremendously, \u201cYes, Adam, I\u2019d be happy to join you for lunch.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Trey got up and headed out to Heather\u2019s desk, \u201cHeather this is Trey Hollingsworth, Emily\u2019s boyfriend, Trey, this is Heather, the best admin a CEO can have.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNice to meet you, Ma\u2019am,\u201d Trey said smiling and nodding his head to Heather.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNice to meet you as well.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily is a sweet girl, you\u2019re a lucky guy.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Heather smiled broadly to Trey.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWe\u2019re going to lunch, so will you clear the next few hours on my calendar please.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure will, Adam, enjoy lunch.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam took Trey for lunch at a downtown eatery he often frequented with clients he was doing business with.\u00a0 <\/span>Trey and Adam spoke about business, sports, school and, of course, the commonality in both of their lives: Emily.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

The day had finally arrived; Emily\u2019s sixteenth birthday.\u00a0 <\/span>She went to bed talking to Trey, but he told her he wanted her to get a good night\u2019s sleep because he had a day packed full of activities since it would be their first official date where they were allowed to date outside the family home without supervision.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily woke the next morning to the smell of bacon cooking in the kitchen so she got out of bed, put her hair in a ponytail with a headband and put on the over-sized baby pink T-shirt Trey had given her a week before which read, Birthday Princess.\u00a0 <\/span>She saw Adam in just jeans and slippers in the kitchen cooking breakfast and went to his side, putting both of her arms around his waist, laying her head on the side of his chest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMorning, Daddy, sure smells good in here.\u00a0 <\/span>Where\u2019s Mommy?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam kissed his birthday girl on the side of her head and said, \u201cGood morning, Princess, happy birthday! Mommy\u2019s taking a shower; she should be out shortly.\u00a0 <\/span>I told her I would get breakfast started, can I make you some tea?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Daddy, thank you.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily rubbed her eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

She went and sat at the breakfast table in the kitchen and talked to her father while he continued to prepare breakfast for his birthday child and the other two girls special in his life.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you and Trey have planned today, Princess?\u201d Adam asked adding water to the tea kettle and placing it on the stove.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, Daddy.\u00a0 <\/span>He\u2019s been very secretive about what he has planned for us today.\u00a0 <\/span>I just know he\u2019s coming to pick me up around 11:30 A.M. and we\u2019ll be out most of the day.\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy said we\u2019ll celebrate my birthday with the family tomorrow.\u00a0 <\/span>Thank you for allowing Trey and me to spend the day together, just the two of us.\u00a0 <\/span>I have to say I was a bit surprised when he told me you said it was okay for the family celebration to be delayed a day.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI like Trey, Princess.\u00a0 <\/span>I know you two have been waiting for months now to have a date alone, away from the house, and I talked with Mommy, and she was okay with delaying the family celebration until tomorrow so you and Trey could enjoy the day together by yourselves.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily stood and ran to her hero, throwing her arms around his waist again, jumping up to kiss him on his neck and cheek.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPrincess! Be careful, I don\u2019t want to splash hot grease on us.\u00a0 <\/span>I would hate to burn us, and we end up in the ER instead of you spending the day with Trey.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSorry, Daddy, I\u2019m just so excited.\u00a0 <\/span>I can\u2019t believe I\u2019m finally going to be able to have a real date with Trey today!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The kettle started to whistle, and Adam poured the hot steaming water in Emily\u2019s favorite mug.\u00a0 <\/span>He handed it to her, and she said she was going to take her tea to her bathroom, shower, get dressed and would return in time for breakfast to be served.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily ran into Jessica as she was exiting out of the kitchen.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMorning, Mommy! Isn\u2019t it the best day ever?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica gave her daughter a hug and a kiss on her cheek.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMorning, my beautiful girl, happy sweet sixteen birthday!\u00a0 <\/span>How do you feel to be sixteen today?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI feel grrrreeeeaaaat!\u201d Emily shouted like Tony the Tiger.<\/span><\/p>\n

She continued on to the bathroom to take a shower and get dressed in anticipation of the many birthday surprises which Trey had in store for her throughout the day.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica laughed as she entered the kitchen.\u00a0 <\/span>She saw Adam refilling his mug of coffee as he turned to see Jessica dressed in her pastel green sweater, indigo blue jeans, Italian leather loafers, with her hair flowing in soft curls to her shoulders.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou look ready to go pick up a couple of new cars today,\u201d Adam smiled at his wife looking particularly beautiful, casually dressed for the day.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI am! Thank you for offering to get me a new car, too! What a treat for me.\u00a0 <\/span>I have the most generous husband on this earth,\u201d she said, placing her arms around Adam\u2019s waist, giving him a tender kiss on his lips.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI hadn\u2019t realized it had been ten years since we last bought you a car until you mentioned it a few weeks ago.\u00a0 <\/span>Besides, you had a good thought about getting a smaller SUV since Jason is gone to school now and most times it\u2019ll just be you and Jillian or the three of us when we\u2019re going somewhere together.\u00a0 <\/span>No need for a large capacity SUV any longer.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you for letting me get the Porsche Macan Turbo.\u00a0 <\/span>I fell in love with it when I first saw it.\u00a0 <\/span>You are such a generous man.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJerry wrote me an amazing deal, and besides, you deserve it, my beautiful lover.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou promised me you would wear your happy wife, happy life apron naked for me every night if I got it for you and I\u2019m going to hold you to it,\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll wear it in the car for you if you want me to,\u201d Jessica laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy,\u201d Jillian gasped, \u201cYou\u2019re going to wear your apron naked in your car? Ewww!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica and Adam looked up with horror on their faces and then laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome here, baby girl,\u201d Jessica motioned to her youngest child.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cDaddy and I are going to pick up Mommy\u2019s new car today, and I\u2019m just excited.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan I go with you?\u201d Jillian asked, not realizing how boring and time consuming it is to do paperwork on a trade-in and purchase of a new car.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019ll be boring, but if you want to hang out with Daddy and me today instead of playing with Diana, you can go.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian thought a moment and shook her head.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cNo, I\u2019ll stay and play with Diana, thank you,\u201d she giggled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWill my beautiful girls please have a seat at the breakfast table; Daddy is cooking this morning.\u00a0 <\/span>I have apple juice and tea coming right up.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUh oh, Mommy, where’s the Pepto Bismol?\u00a0 <\/span>I think we might need it; Daddy\u2019s cooking,\u201d Jillian giggled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou calling Daddy a bad cook, little girl?\u00a0 <\/span>Adam bent down and tickled his youngest child.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian squealed with delight and wiggled in Adam\u2019s strong arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cStop, Daddy! You\u2019re going to make me tinkle in my panties!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian screamed, knowing this statement always made her daddy stop tickling her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll have you know Hop Sing taught me everything I know.\u00a0 <\/span>I expect Hoss to come driving up any moment; he can smell biscuits cooking miles away,\u201d Adam said laughing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUncle Hoss is coming over?\u201d Jillian questioned. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, sweetie, Daddy\u2019s just boasting his breakfast will be so good, Uncle Hoss will be able to smell it and come running.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh,\u201d Jillian responded.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Adam finished up and Jessica put the last plate on the table, the birthday girl walked in for breakfast.\u00a0 <\/span>As the four Cartwright\u2019s sat down, Adam started singing the Happy Birthday song to his eldest daughter, and the two other Cartwright girls joined in while Emily blushed and bowed her head in embarrassment. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou look beautiful, Princess,\u201d Adam said noting Emily\u2019s stone washed jeans, light pink sweater, leather Keds tennis shoes and side pony fishtail braid. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTrey told me to dress comfortable and casual for this afternoon, that\u2019s all he would tell me,\u201d Emily said as she grabbed some bacon and toast for her plate.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHe said we\u2019ll be out most of the afternoon, and he\u2019ll bring me home long enough to get dressed to go to dinner somewhere very special.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure you\u2019ll take his breath away, Sweetheart, you look beautiful,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

After the Cartwrights finished breakfast and the dishes were done, Jillian went and got dressed in anticipation of going down to Diana\u2019s house for the day. Adam went to the room he shared with Jessica to take a shower and get dressed to head to the Porsche dealership in Reno to pick up Jessica\u2019s new car and the Acura dealership to get the new Diamond White Pearl Acura RDX for Emily\u2019s birthday present.<\/span><\/p>\n

After Adam had left the kitchen, Emily walked up to her mother and said, \u201cMommy, can we go into the living room and talk?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica could see the seriousness in her daughter\u2019s face so she took her in her arms and said, \u201cSure, let\u2019s go in the living room.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily put her arm around her mother, and the two girls headed into the formal living room to have a heart to heart talk.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica sat down, and Emily sat next to her.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica turned to her daughter and asked, \u201cWhat did you want to speak to me about, Sweetheart?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily said, but started fidgeting with her fingers, \u201cMommy, when did you know you were in love with Daddy?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica looked at her daughter with a befuddled look, unsure why she was asking such a strange question on her sixteenth birthday but decided to answer her daughter without question.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was attracted to your father from the moment I first laid eyes on him in Freshman English, but when I fell in love with him? I truly fell in love with him and when I say fell in love, I mean, fell in love body, soul, mind, and spirit, was in December of our freshman year.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow did you know, though, Mommy?\u00a0 <\/span>How will I know?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica was wondering why her daughter was asking these questions about love, so before she went any further, she decided to ask more questions herself.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLove has many facets, Honey, why do you ask?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI really love Trey.\u00a0 <\/span>I mean, I know I don\u2019t love him like you and Daddy love each other, however…Oh, Mommy, I do love him!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica smiled at her daughter\u2019s sweet innocence. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoney, what you feeling is puppy love.\u00a0 <\/span>Now don\u2019t get me wrong, I\u2019m not discounting you when you say you love Trey.\u00a0 <\/span>However, you are only sixteen and while you certainly have matured to know the feeling of love beyond the love you have for your family, the love you feel for Trey is an affectionate love and physical attraction; I\u2019m sure he feels the same for you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI agree, Mommy, but I\u2019ve heard of people falling in love with their high school sweethearts and one day getting married.\u00a0 <\/span>I think it\u2019s so romantic,\u201d Emily sighed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt is, Sweetheart, and it could happen, I\u2019m not saying it won\u2019t, however, know when Trey goes off to college, things could change for you two.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m not saying they will, but you have to be realistic about this possibility.\u00a0 <\/span>You are both young, and as you mature, things which don\u2019t bother you now could bother you later.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s all part of growing up.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, there have been a few girls on the cheer squad who have lost their virginity because their boyfriends said they loved them.\u00a0 <\/span>I know you and Daddy have always told me I need to wait until I\u2019m married to have sex, but when you love someone, is it okay if you\u2019re not married?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica\u2019s face fell.\u00a0 <\/span>Her form got very tense as she was afraid her daughter was building her up to tell her she was no longer a virgin.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily could see the fright in her mother\u2019s eyes and her eyes got wide.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Mommy, Trey and I haven\u2019t had sex, I promise!\u00a0 <\/span>Besides, where would we have done it? We haven\u2019t been able to spend any time alone together.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica\u2019s face softened, and she let out a huge sigh of relief. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoney, ideally it would be best to wait until your wedding night to make love with your partner for the first time.\u00a0 <\/span>Is it realistic? Probably not.\u00a0 <\/span>I only ask when you do, you make sure the man you give your body to and the person you become one within the most intimate way is the man you do want to spend the rest of your life with and preferably at least be engaged.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWere you and Daddy engaged the first time you made love?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, we weren’t formally engaged, but your father knew he was going to ask me to marry him, and I knew I was in love with him, and I wanted to spend the rest of my life with him.\u00a0 <\/span>We had dated for awhile, and we loved each other very much.\u00a0 <\/span>Did we plan to make love the night we did for the first time?\u00a0 <\/span>No, but did we regret it?\u00a0 <\/span>No.\u00a0 <\/span>It actually made our love stronger.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about that man you were with when you and Daddy were divorced?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily was curious.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica sat dumbfounded at the question regarding the only man she had dated outside of Adam since her children had been born.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily had never mentioned Clint after Jessica broke up with him and was in shock she would even remember him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou had sex with him, I saw him moving on top of you, you were both making noises and it scared me.\u00a0 <\/span>I was young, but I remember.\u00a0 <\/span>I didn\u2019t know what you were doing back then; I was too young, but I now know what you two were doing.\u00a0 <\/span>Did you love him like you love Daddy, Mommy?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Sweetheart, Clint was someone I did care very deeply about.\u00a0 <\/span>I didn\u2019t even know you remembered him…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t remember him very well,\u201d Emily interrupted, \u201cHe was very nice, I remember.\u00a0 <\/span>I saw you and him in your room, and it scared me.\u00a0 <\/span>I told Daddy about it when I saw him the next time.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh yes, I know you told Daddy,\u201d Jessica remembered Adam\u2019s scathing call to her when Emily confessed her witnessing Jessica\u2019s and Clint\u2019s sexual encounter.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cYour father read me the riot act after you told him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid you love him?\u201d Emily questioned again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Sweetheart, I did love him, but was I in love with him like I\u2019ve always loved your daddy? No.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThen why would you have sex with him if you didn\u2019t love him, Mommy?<\/span><\/p>\n

Although Jessica was getting a bit uneasy about the deep conversation she was having with her daughter, she felt it was beneficial to share her experience with Clint and Adam so she could understand the difference between the two relationships.\u00a0 <\/span>She hoped it would help her to remain celibate until she found the man she would spend the rest of her life with and only want to share her body with him. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily, Daddy and Mommy had hurt each other very much.\u00a0 <\/span>I was young and immature.\u00a0 <\/span>Was I mature enough to be married with children?\u00a0 <\/span>Yes, but Daddy and I had many obstacles we had to overcome in our young marriage, and I, unfortunately, allowed those impediments to cloud my love and rational thinking.\u00a0 <\/span>I blamed your father for the demise of our marriage, but in reality, we were both very much to blame.\u00a0 <\/span>I met Clint not long after our divorce and was immediately attracted to him.\u00a0 <\/span>Looking back, I dated Clint because I knew your father still loved me and deep down I still loved him, but I was more interested in hurting him the way I had perceived he\u2019d hurt me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Mommy!\u201d Emily cried.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSweetheart, I know it is hard to hear and believe me, I will always regret my actions in those few years we were divorced but in some ways, I think it made us stronger the second time around.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t remember Clint very well, but certain things are very clear as if it was yesterday, I really can\u2019t explain it.\u00a0 <\/span>I do remember he was very nice, and I did like him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe was very kind to you and Jason, and he loved you very much.\u00a0 <\/span>When he came over, he played with you guys on the floor all the time.\u00a0 <\/span>He let you crawl all over him, and he would play hide and seek with you in the backyard.\u00a0 <\/span>He always made sure he was easy to find for you.\u00a0 <\/span>Those were the things I loved about him the most; how good he was to you and Jason.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid you want to marry him?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe had talked about it, but I never could commit.\u00a0 <\/span>I still loved your father, but when I would think about how he had abandoned us in those early years when he took over as CEO, I would allow my anger to dictate my life where you father was concerned.\u00a0 <\/span>If I had married Clint, I don\u2019t think we would be married today, unfortunately.\u00a0 <\/span>As I said, I loved Clint, but I was not in love with him.\u00a0 <\/span>The only man I\u2019ve ever been in love with is your father.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy I want you to know Trey has told me he does love me very much, but he also respects me.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ve talked about the kids in school who have lost their virginity, and he says he doesn\u2019t want to be one of those statistics.\u00a0 <\/span>He wants to make sure the woman he shares his body with is someone he knows he will marry.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m happy to hear Trey feels this way.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve always liked Trey, he\u2019s a very upstanding young man with high moral values.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHis mom brought him up that way.\u00a0 <\/span>Trey says this is one of the reasons she and his dad are no longer together; because his father, being a sports agent, is very extroverted and free spirited.\u00a0 <\/span>His mother is not like that.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s a very private person.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s nice, don\u2019t get me wrong, but she has a different set of morals than his father; his words not mine.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe was very nice the time we got to meet her at their jewelry store.\u00a0 <\/span>Daddy and I liked them very much and look forward to getting to know them better.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTrey\u2019s step dad is really cool.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve spoken to him a few times when I\u2019ve called Trey\u2019s house, and he wasn\u2019t home so we would talk for a few minutes.\u00a0 <\/span>He seemed genuinely interested in getting to know me better and looked forward to when I turned sixteen and was allowed to date outside our home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily thanked her mother for her candid talk.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica had always told Emily she would be as open with her as she could about love and sex.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica wanted all of her children to be comfortable in talking to both of their parents about relationships, love, marriage, and sex.\u00a0 <\/span>They wanted to be the ones to answer their questions, their fears, their desires, instead of learning them on the street or getting into a situation they would not be able to handle.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily, I\u2019m going to tell you something, now that you and Trey are going to be able to date outside of this house and unsupervised.\u00a0 <\/span>I was once your age, and I know how hormones can be when you start kissing and hugging.\u00a0 <\/span>The desires will get strong, and you\u2019ll get curious to want to explore each other\u2019s bodies.\u00a0 <\/span>If you allow it to grow stronger, you\u2019ll feel the urge to explore, and you\u2019ll say, \u2018We can stop at any time,\u2019 but this is not always the case.\u00a0 <\/span>Human desire is a strong emotion to overcome, and if you don\u2019t allow it to get started, you won\u2019t ever find yourself having to say, \u2018stop\u2019 or \u2018no.’\u00a0 <\/span>You can kiss, you can hold hands, walk arm and arm, and hug each other.\u00a0 <\/span>If you feel the urge to want to continue to get a little more intimate, this is when you need to get out of the situation you are in.\u00a0 <\/span>Don\u2019t let peer pressure dictate decisions you make.\u00a0 <\/span>Wrong decisions can have lifetime consequences,\u201d Jessica tweaked her daughter\u2019s nose, \u201cAnd don\u2019t you forget that.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can only hope I have a marriage like you and Daddy have one day, Mommy.\u00a0 <\/span>I hope when I\u2019m your age, I\u2019m still having sex with my husband.\u00a0 <\/span>I know some of my friends say their parents only exist in their home.\u00a0 <\/span>They don\u2019t see their parents sharing their love so outwardly like you and Daddy do.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSweetheart, Daddy and I share our love outwardly with you kids because we always want you to feel secure.\u00a0 <\/span>We felt our selfishness robbed you and Jason of that for a time, and we never want to make you feel insecure in our love ever again.\u00a0 <\/span>We want you to feel the love we not only have for each other but the love we have for each one of you.\u00a0 <\/span>The way to keep a marriage alive when you get older is to never lose touch with one another, whether it be intellectual, communicative, or most importantly, sexually.\u00a0 <\/span>A big part of marriage is intimacy.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s so important to always keep it spontaneous and creative.\u00a0 <\/span>Sometimes just lying in your father\u2019s arms and him holding me is all we need to feel like one, other times the need is greater.\u00a0 <\/span>There will be times you might not need it as much as your spouse, but because you love him and want to please him, you will comply with his need.\u00a0 <\/span>Your body will respond, believe me,\u201d Jessica winked, and Emily blushed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Mommy, for having this talk with me today.\u00a0 <\/span>Thank you for being so candid in answering all of my questions.\u00a0 <\/span>I hope I wasn\u2019t inappropriate of the things I asked.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Sweetheart, if I felt uneasy in answering any of them or felt it wasn\u2019t any of your business,\u00a0 <\/span>I would have told you so.\u00a0 <\/span>Daddy and I have always told all of you kids we want you to come to us about love and making love.\u00a0 <\/span>We don\u2019t want you hearing about it on the street or from your friends who may or may have not experienced it because believe me, there is a huge difference in making love and getting naked with someone.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t talk to Daddy about sex, Mommy! That\u2019s so embarrassing!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily scrunched up her nose.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica let out a deep laugh.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHoney, Daddy would be as candid as I am, only he can speak from a male perspective.\u00a0 <\/span>If you ever need to talk about it with Daddy but would be more comfortable with me there, too, you can let me know, and Daddy and I will speak with you together.\u00a0 We would<\/span>\u00a0never put you in a position where you would not feel safe and comfortable.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, one more thing, Trey told me Daddy said he could start referring to you like Adam and Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>What made him decide to allow Trey to call you by your first name?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSweetheart, Daddy said Trey had proven himself to him, and he and I really like him.\u00a0 <\/span>We feel he treats you well and would protect you always.\u00a0 <\/span>Trey will be eighteen soon, and we just feel Mr. and Mrs. Cartwright is a bit formal.\u00a0 <\/span>We love Trey and want him to feel part of the family.\u00a0 <\/span>While you two are not at the same level as Jason and Brianna of course, Trey is still a wonderful young man and we want him to feel comfortable around us and calling us Adam and Jessica will make us feel more at ease, and we want him to also feel at ease, too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know if I could ever call his mother by her first name.\u00a0 <\/span>His step dad, yes, but his mom? Um, I don\u2019t know about that,\u201d Emily nervously laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf she feels it\u2019s appropriate for you to call her by her first name, she\u2019ll let you know.\u00a0 <\/span>We felt Trey had proven himself to us so we\u2019re okay with it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, what are two of the most beautiful girls in my life doing in here?\u201d Adam asked as he came in cleaned up, wearing a white button down Polo shirt, stonewashed blue jeans, and loafers.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, Babe, I see you trimmed up your beard, Mommy likes very much!\u201d Jessica winked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stroked his beard and winked, \u201cHappy wife, happy life.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll show you the happy life, my good-looking man,\u201d Jessica winked back.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Mommy and Daddy!\u201d Emily bellowed. \u201cTake it to the bedroom please!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo time for that, Princess,\u201d Adam said as he bent down and scooped the birthday girl into his arms and twirled her around as she screamed and laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, Princess.\u00a0 <\/span>You, Jason, Jillian and Mommy make my life complete.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy, I love you, too, and I thank God every day for you and Mommy, Jason and Jillian.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m the luckiest girl alive, I\u2019m sixteen today, and I get to go on a date with Trey by myself!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat were you girls talking about earlier?\u201d Adam asked still holding Emily in his arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJust girl talk, Adam, Mommy Daughter stuff,\u201d Jessica winked at Emily, and she gave a knowing smile in return.<\/span><\/p>\n

Skeptical, Adam dropped it and decided to inquire more later, on their way to Reno to pick up the two new cars.<\/span><\/p>\n

The door bell rang, and Emily wiggled out of Adam\u2019s hold, and he gently set her back on her feet.\u00a0 <\/span>She ran to the door, and Trey walked in when Emily opened the door.\u00a0 <\/span>He presented her with a dozen light pink roses in a pink vase with a Happy Birthday balloon tied to the bouquet.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily kissed Trey on the cheek and hugged him for the beautiful flowers.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHello, Adam, Jessica, great to see you.\u00a0 <\/span>I hear you\u2019re getting a new car today?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica stood up and came to put her arm through Adam\u2019s and looked up adoringly into her husband\u2019s eyes and said, \u201cYes, we\u2019ve decided to step down a bit in the size automobile I need to drive.\u00a0 <\/span>When we realized it had been ten years since our last family car purchase, Adam surprised me and told me I was going to get the car I really wanted.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m very excited.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI look forward to seeing it,\u201d Trey smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI guess we best get going.\u00a0 <\/span>My first surprise is time sensitive.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily handed the vase of roses to her mother and kissed each of her parents.\u00a0 <\/span>Trey grabbed Emily\u2019s hand, and they walked hand in hand out the door.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam and Jessica moved to the door and watched as they walked down the sidewalk to Trey\u2019s Mustang.\u00a0 <\/span>He opened the door for Emily, and she got in.\u00a0 <\/span>She waved back to Adam and Jessica and had the biggest grin on her face as she now was free to date Trey unsupervised and away from the house.\u00a0 <\/span>After the kids had driven away, Jessica went to put the flowers in Emily\u2019s room and call Jillian to come and get in the car so they could drop her off at Diana\u2019s house on their way to Reno to get Jessica\u2019s car and Emily\u2019s surprise birthday gift: her brand new car.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhere are you taking me?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily asked excited to finally be riding in Trey\u2019s car alone with him on a date.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re headed up to Lake Tahoe.\u00a0 <\/span>I thought I would take you for a lunch cruise on the Tahoe Bleu Wave.\u00a0 <\/span>I know how much you like the lake, and I wanted to do something special, just the two of us today.\u00a0 <\/span>I have plans for later, and tonight, I\u2019m taking you to your favorite restaurant for dinner,\u201d Trey replied, taking Emily\u2019s hand in his as he headed toward Highway 50 toward South Lake Tahoe where the Tahoe Bleu Wave was docked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow exciting!\u00a0 <\/span>We go riding up to the lake often when we\u2019re at the Ponderosa…Trey!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily\u2019s eyes got wide, and a smile graced her face, \u201cNow that we\u2019re able to date, you can come up to the Ponderosa, and we can go horseback riding.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sure Daddy would let you ride Sport or Jake, and I have my beautiful horse I got for my fifth birthday; his name is Banana.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSounds like a plan next spring for sure, Babe,\u201d Trey smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

The couple arrived at the docks on Lake Tahoe where they would catch their luncheon cruise.\u00a0 <\/span>Trey paid for parking, and they found a parking spot near the pier.\u00a0 <\/span>Trey came around and helped his birthday girl from the car, and they headed toward the ticket booth where his pre-paid tickets were waiting for him at the will call window.\u00a0 <\/span>After getting their tickets, Trey took Emily\u2019s hand, and they headed toward the pier where the boat was docked.\u00a0 <\/span>As they gave their ticket to one of the stewards of the vessel, he instructed the couple to stand in front of the boat where the photographer would snap their picture for a memory of their day\u2019s excursion on the lake.\u00a0 <\/span>After boarding the boat, they found their table and a waitress came to take their drink order.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll have a cup of hot tea please,\u201d Emily said smiling, very excited to be spending her special birthday alone with her boyfriend.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll have a coffee, black, please,\u201d Trey said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe buffet is now open if you would like to go ahead and get in line.\u00a0 <\/span>We have a cold salad station, hot station, carved meat station and everyone\u2019s favorite, the dessert station,\u201d the waitress pointed out. \u201cI\u2019ll be back with your drinks momentarily.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The couple got up and filled up their plates with delicious salads, meats and vegetables from the buffet, and when they returned, there was a pot of hot water with a tea bag for Emily and a small carafe of coffee for Trey.\u00a0 <\/span>The two kids ate their meal, and both were so full of their salads and meat selections they both elected not to partake in the dessert although both said they did look tempting and delicious. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t we head outside and bask in the beauty of the scenery.\u201d Trey motioned as he got up and came around to take Emily\u2019s hand.<\/span><\/p>\n

They stood outside, and there was a slight breeze off the lake, and it was a bit chilly.\u00a0 <\/span>Trey took his leather jacket off and placed it on Emily\u2019s shoulders.\u00a0 <\/span>Before taking his jacket off, he pulled out a small wrapped gift and once Emily\u2019s chill was gone, he presented her with the gift and a card.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEver since we became boyfriend and girlfriend, I looked forward to your birthday when I could spend time alone with you and give this gift.\u00a0 <\/span>I hope you like it, I chose it myself…well, with a little help from my mother, since she knows what girls like,\u201d Trey said with a hint of pink coloring his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily\u2019s eyes opened like wide blue saucers.\u00a0 <\/span>She opened the card first, and it was a beautiful birthday card which she read out loud:<\/span><\/p>\n

My Girlfriend, who made my life go from lonely to livable, to lovable.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Happy Birthday.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

She opened the card, and she again read aloud what was written on the inside:<\/span><\/p>\n

On you birthday, I wish you as much pleasure and joy as you have given me.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Love, Trey.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Emily shut the card and looked at Trey with loving eyes.\u00a0 <\/span>She leaned over and kissed tenderly kissed his lips.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Babe, I\u2019ll keep this card always.\u00a0 <\/span>I love it!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOpen the gift, I really hope you like it,\u201d Trey said anxiously.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily unwrapped the very smartly wrapped gift box and then opened the outer box to expose a purple velvet box inside.\u00a0 <\/span>She looked up at Trey, who was smiling from ear to ear.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily\u2019s hands were shaking as she pulled the velvet box from the gift box which she placed in her lap so she could open the velvet box.\u00a0 <\/span>She lifted the lid and found a beautiful pear shaped Australian opal pendant with small diamonds cascading up the bale and a gold snake chain.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s exquisite, Trey, I love it!\u201d she said breathlessly, \u201cThank you so much! I\u2019m speechless.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m glad you like it.\u00a0 <\/span>My parents recently returned from Australia, and they sourced some beautiful stones while they were there for their jewelry store.\u00a0 <\/span>I told my mother I wanted to give you a pendant with your birthstone, and she helped me pick just the perfect stone; my stepfather set it in this setting.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As Emily turned to allow Trey to clasp the pendant around her neck, she said, \u201cI\u2019ve wanted an opal for a long time.\u00a0 <\/span>My parents bought me a beautiful pink tourmaline pendant, earrings and ring for Christmas last year, which is my other birthstone but I\u2019ve always wanted an opal because I love the fire opals have, and this one is such a rainbow of blues, yellows, greens, and lots of red!\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

When Trey finished clasping the chain, Emily put her hand on the stone and then placed both of her hands on Trey\u2019s cheeks and gave him a long very sensuous kiss.\u00a0 <\/span>When the kiss ended, Trey looked at Emily with glazed eyes and smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf giving you an opal gets me that kind of kiss, I\u2019ll shower you with them daily,\u201d he laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

The couple stood up, and each placed their arms around each other\u2019s waist and walked to the railing of the boat as they came into the cove of Emerald Bay.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love this lake, I love this area.\u00a0 <\/span>This is God\u2019s Country isn\u2019t it?\u201d Emily said as she closed her eyes and breathed deeply taking in the clean, crisp autumn air.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s beautiful, but it\u2019s not as beautiful as you, Emily.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

After the luncheon cruise was completed, Trey and Emily got back into Trey\u2019s car, so they could head back to Reno and on to Trey\u2019s second surprise of the day: shopping for a dress for Emily to wear to dinner.<\/span><\/p>\n

The two shopped at several stores in the mall and ended up finding a dress at Macy\u2019s which was a strapless sweetheart neckline top and a flowing chiffon knee length skirt in light blue with a wide band of iridescent sequins and beads which adorned the middle of the dress.\u00a0 <\/span>Trey took Emily to the ladies shoe department where she found a pair of elegant strap sandal heels to wear with the dress as well.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/p>\n

After their day\u2019s excursions, Trey took Emily back home so she could get dressed for their dinner date at Adel\u2019s.\u00a0 <\/span>Little did Emily know what she thought would be an intimate birthday dinner for two would be a surprise party her parents had schemed with Trey to pull off.<\/span><\/p>\n

Upon returning home, Emily noticed her family was not home.\u00a0 <\/span>She knew Jessica and Adam were headed to Reno to get Jessica\u2019s new car, however, she thought they would have been home by the time she returned back at 5:00 PM.\u00a0 <\/span>When she entered her room, she saw a note from her parents that read:<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily,<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

We\u2019ve headed up to the Ponderosa to Uncle Hoss\u2019s house to have dinner with his family and to show him Mommy\u2019s new car.\u00a0 <\/span>We should be home by the time you return from dinner with Trey.\u00a0 <\/span>We look forward to hearing about your day and what Trey had planned for your birthday. <\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Love,<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Mommy and Daddy<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Emily jumped in the shower to clean up from the day\u2019s activities and once out of the shower, she put on a fresh face of makeup and let her hair fall around her shoulders into soft flowing curls.<\/span><\/p>\n

Shortly before 7:00 P.M., Trey rang the doorbell to pick her up for their dinner at Adel\u2019s.\u00a0 <\/span>His breath was taken away when she answered the door in the new dress he had bought for her earlier in the day.\u00a0 <\/span>Her jewelry were small diamond stud earrings her parents had given to her for her fifteenth birthday along with the opal pendant Trey had given to her earlier in the day.\u00a0 <\/span>She had a silk and cashmere pink sweater with seed pearls scattered across the two front panels and pearl buttons which were a perfect match, and she wore this over the dress as it was beginning to get cooler at night.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once the couple arrived at Adel\u2019s, the hostess greeted them with a warm smile.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWelcome to Adel\u2019s, do you have a reservation this evening?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, reservation for two, Trey Hollingsworth,\u201d Trey smiled at the hostess.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The hostess was made aware when Trey and Emily arrived, she was to take them to the private dining room where the rest of the family would be waiting.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFollow me, please,\u201d the hostess said as she grabbed two menus as if she were taking them to an intimate table for two.<\/span><\/p>\n

As they reached the private dining room, she opened the door, and Emily walked in to see her parents, sister, two uncles and their wives all sitting at a table decorated with white and pink balloons and other sweet sixteen party favors. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSURPRISE!\u201d Yelled the entire Cartwright family.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily stood shocked and surprised.\u00a0 <\/span>She turned to Trey, who was grinning from ear to ear who along with Adam and Jessica, was able to pull off the surprise of her life.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou knew didn\u2019t you?\u201d she said as she hit Trey in the chest as she put her arm around his waist and placed her head on his chest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour dad and I along with your mom put the whole plan into motion a few weeks ago,\u201d Trey said as he led Emily to her seat in the middle of the table.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI should have known you had something cooking, Mommy and Daddy.\u00a0 <\/span>Why else would you have been so totally okay with Trey and me spending my sixteenth birthday together without you somewhere in the mix.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow was your day today, Honey?\u201d Jessica asked as she sipped on a glass of champagne. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Mommy, it was fantastic.\u00a0 <\/span>We first went up to the lake and took a lunch cruise where he gave me this beautiful opal pendant and chain,\u201d Emily showed off her new necklace.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWe then went to the mall because he wanted to buy me a special dress for our dinner date tonight,\u201d she said looking at him and lightly punching him in the arm again for being able to pull off the surprise the way he did.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour dress is simply beautiful, Emily,\u201d Donna, Joe\u2019s wife commented.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Aunt Donna, Trey was the one who actually saw it first.\u00a0 <\/span>I was having such a hard time finding something I liked.\u00a0 <\/span>If I found something, they would have every size but mine so when he found this one, they had it in my size, I was so excited. I love it, too,\u201d Emily said smiling back at Trey.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica got up from her seat next to Adam and came over to her daughter to get a closer look at the opal pendant she had received from Trey.\u00a0 <\/span>She held the necklace in her hand and marveled at the workmanship and quality of the stone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s just beautiful, Honey.\u00a0 <\/span>I know you will treasure it and take good care of it.\u00a0 <\/span>Opals are very fragile stones so you\u2019ll need to be sure to take it off each night before you go to bed and place it in your jewelry box.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s phone rang, and he answered it.\u00a0 <\/span>He then put the phone on speaker and asked everyone to be quiet as he had someone who wanted to say hello; it was Jason and Brianna on FaceTime. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, little sister,\u201d Jason said as he and Brianna huddled together in their phone\u2019s camera so they could both be seen by all of the Cartwrights.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHappy birthday!\u201d they both said together.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe wished we could have been with you tonight,\u201d Jason then spoke on his own.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis is a special night for you, and we wanted to virtually be a part of it so Dad sent me a text when you and Trey arrived so we could call in to wish you a happy birthday and give you our love.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Brother, for calling.\u00a0 <\/span>I wished you could be here, I love you guys!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe love you, too, Sweetheart, happy birthday!\u201d Brianna spoke up.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll let you go so you can get back to dinner, it\u2019s getting late here.\u00a0 <\/span>Emmy, call tomorrow and tell us all about your day, we want to hear about it,\u201d Jason finished the call.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWill do, Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>Love you, and I\u2019ll give you a call tomorrow after church.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGreat, talk to you then.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Everyone waved and said goodbye as Emily turned the phone around and scanned everyone around the table so they could see Jason and Brianna and they could see them.\u00a0 <\/span>After the FaceTime call had ended, Emily got up to give Adam his phone and a big kiss to thank him for having Jason call so she could talk to her older brother whom she was extremely close to, and he and his beloved could be a part of her birthday.<\/span><\/p>\n

As dinner wound down and the staff removed the dinner plates, the presents all the family members had brought were set in front of Emily.\u00a0 <\/span>The lights were dimmed as the staff brought in the sweet sixteen birthday cake the restaurant\u2019s pastry chef had made in honor of Adam and Jessica\u2019s eldest daughter\u2019s special day.\u00a0 <\/span>The family sang happy birthday while Jessica snapped pictures of Emily\u2019s glowing face among all the lit candles.\u00a0 <\/span>After the song was sung, Emily blew out her candles, and the staff took the cake to one of the back serving tables, and the head waiter cut the cake while other employees served a piece to everyone.\u00a0 <\/span>After the cake was served and all the family was enjoying dessert, Emily began to open her gifts.\u00a0 <\/span>Hoss and his wife gave Emily a pair of True Religion black corduroy jeans and a soft pink cashmere sweater.\u00a0 <\/span>Joe and Donna gave her a new North Face ski jacket and pants set she had wanted for the upcoming ski season.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Everyone.\u00a0 <\/span>Trey and I are so excited we can go skiing together up at Squaw Valley this winter and these will come in handy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The wait staff came back in and delivered champagne flutes to all the adults and white sparkling grape juice to Emily, Trey, and Jillian.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam stood and lifted his glass to his daughter and began to speak.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily, your mother and I are very proud of the beautiful woman you are becoming.\u00a0 <\/span>It seems like only yesterday I held you in my arms for the first time shortly after your mother gave birth to you.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ve been through a lot over these last sixteen years; some good, some bad, some great, some sad.\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy and I couldn\u2019t be more proud of you, and we thank God each day for the blessing of selecting us to be your Mommy and Daddy.\u00a0 <\/span>We love you, Princess, happy birthday.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The rest of the family clinked their glasses together, toasting Emily.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam took Jessica\u2019s hand, and they got up and came to their daughter.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe have one last present to give to you tonight, Sweetheart.\u00a0 <\/span>Daddy and I researched long and hard what we wanted to give you today for this special birthday.\u00a0 <\/span>We hope you like it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam asked Emily to close her eyes and hold out her hands.\u00a0 <\/span>She looked at her father with skeptical eyes as she had fallen for his pranks and shenanigans many times, but decided to play along as she knew her Daddy probably would not end a special night with a joke.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam pulled out the key fob to Emily\u2019s brand new car and placed it in her hands.\u00a0 <\/span>When she opened her eyes and saw the keys, her eyes opened wide, she gasped and then leaped into both parent\u2019s arms, kissed and hugged them for their generous gift.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was beginning to think I wasn\u2019t getting a car! Thank you so much, Mommy and Daddy, I promise I\u2019ll be very careful once I get my license and can drive on my own.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPrincess, it\u2019s not the Q60 you wanted…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cQ60 Coupe, Adam,\u201d Jessica reminded him, and the whole table erupted in laughter as Adam and Jessica had shared the story with everyone before Emily\u2019s and Trey\u2019s arrival.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTouch\u00e9, Babe,\u201d Adam smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

He turned back to Emily, who was shaking, and tears were running down her face.\u00a0 <\/span>Trey stood up and held Emily as he could see she was getting weak in the knees from the excitement of having her own brand new car.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam continued, \u201cIt\u2019s not the Q60 Coupe,\u201d he said looking at Jessica standing next to him and then turned his attention back to Emily, \u201cbut it\u2019s a car Mommy and I felt was best for you and the type of driving you\u2019ll be doing.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s somewhat of a parental car as it does have four doors, but it is a sporty crossover SUV.\u00a0 <\/span>It will be perfect for when you need to drive up to the Ponderosa in the winter or when you and Trey go skiing.\u00a0 <\/span>We know you\u2019re ready, and all you need to do now is pass your driving test on Monday!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily thanked her parents again as Adam took Jessica into his arms.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica was crying as she thought about her daughter becoming more independent.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t wait to see it!\u00a0 <\/span>Is it at home?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Princess, it\u2019s right outside!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily\u2019s eyes opened wide again as she couldn\u2019t believe she was going to be able to see her new car right then.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShall we all go look at Emily\u2019s new car?\u201d Adam said looking at everyone.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe spoke as he stood up, handing his arm to his wife, Donna, \u201cI\u2019m ready, I can\u2019t wait to see you in the driver seat, my dear niece.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Everyone stood up and walked outside.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam passed the head waiter of the staff who was serving them and handed him his black American Express.\u00a0 <\/span>He asked the bill be tallied, and an additional twenty-five percent tip to be added to the already included gratuity.\u00a0 <\/span>He also asked the gifts be gathered up, and he would be in shortly to settle his account.<\/span><\/p>\n

The family walked outside and headed to the parking lot at the back of the restaurant where Adam and Jessica had parked the car and placed a big pink bow on the hood.\u00a0 <\/span>When Emily rounded the corner and saw her new Acura RDX, she leaped into her father\u2019s arms and planted a big kiss on his cheek.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Daddy! I love it!\u201d she said as she turned back around, still in her Daddy\u2019s embrace. \u201cYou even got me the pearl white I wanted!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt wasn\u2019t easy, Sweetheart,\u201d Jessica piped in.\u00a0 <\/span>We wanted specific options, and they had to go to San Francisco to find one in the pearl.\u00a0 <\/span>Daddy had to pull strings to get it here in time for tonight\u2019s celebration.\u00a0 <\/span>We were actually biting our nails if it was going to get here in time, but the dealership came through.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s see what you look like in the driver\u2019s seat, little lady,\u201d Hoss spoke up.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily squealed as she skipped over to her new car.\u00a0 <\/span>She clicked the fob to open the doors and told Trey to get in on the passenger side.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam got in the back seat, and Jessica came on the other side and got in the middle so Jillian could join the family.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam explained all the different options they had added to the car such as the navigation package, and a ski rack among others.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily sat in the driver\u2019s seat and turned on the car the radio to come on.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThere is Bluetooth capability on this car, Sweetheart, for when you need to talk on the phone, but as Daddy and I discussed with you before, we don\u2019t want you talking on the phone while driving unless it is absolutely necessary.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re still a new driver, and it\u2019s not safe to talk on the phone while driving, is that understood?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Mommy, I promise I\u2019ll only talk on the phone while driving if it\u2019s an emergency.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll hold her to her promise, Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t even drive on the phone.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily always asks me when she calls, \u2018Are you driving?\u2019\u00a0 <\/span>If I am, she says to call her when I get to where I\u2019m going.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ve had this conversation many times ourselves.\u00a0 <\/span>She knows how I feel about it, too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI like you more every day, Trey,\u201d Adam replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

After a quick overview of all the features of the car, Adam instructed Emily to turn off the car and hand him back the fob.\u00a0 <\/span>He said he would give it back to her after she passed her driving test on Monday.<\/span><\/p>\n

Everyone got out of the car and each said their goodbyes and again wished Emily a happy birthday.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily thanked each of her uncles and aunts for coming and sharing in her special day.\u00a0 <\/span>Both of her aunts took a closer look at the necklace Trey had given her and told him he had exquisite taste, and Emily was a lucky girl to have such a thoughtful boyfriend.\u00a0 <\/span>The four of them gave her a kiss, Hoss and Joe gave Trey a handshake and he gave Emily\u2019s aunts a kiss on their cheek.<\/span><\/p>\n

After everyone had left, Emily turned back to her parents and thanked them and Trey for the best birthday she had ever had.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI feel blessed, and I love you all, including you, Peanut!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily said grabbing her sister and giving her a big hug.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWill you take Diana and me for a ride when you get your drivers license?\u201d Jillian asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI sure will! Trey and I can take you guys to the movies or something, okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian jumped up and down with excitement of getting to spend time with her older sister and boyfriend.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t you and Trey head back to the house.\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy and I will settle up things here at Adel\u2019s, and we\u2019ll pack up the car with all of your gifts.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll be home shortly.\u201d Adam said as he took off his jacket and placed it around Jessica\u2019s shoulders as she was beginning to shiver in the cold night air.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, Daddy, can we take Jillian with us? Is it okay, Trey, if Jill comes, too?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure! If it\u2019s okay with your parents,\u201d Trey responded, looking at Adam and Jessica.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s okay with us, would you like to go back home with Trey and Emily, Sweetpea?\u201d Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWould I, YES, Thank you, Trey!\u201d Jillian jumped up and down.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, Peanut, control your enthusiasm,\u201d Emily laughed, and the others joined in.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian grinned from ear to ear as Trey gave Adam a handshake and Jessica a kiss on the cheek.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily kissed her father on the lips and gave him a tight hug and thanked him again for a wonderful birthday celebration and for being the best daddy a girl could ever wish for.\u00a0 <\/span>She then went to Jessica kissed her on the lips and hugged her tightly and told her how much she loved her as well.\u00a0 <\/span>Once all goodbyes were complete, Emily and Trey each took one of Jillian\u2019s hands, and the three walked to Trey\u2019s Mustang, and they drove back toward home.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s growing up isn\u2019t she?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked Adam as he held her in his arms and they watched their children and Trey drive away.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam kissed Jessica on the side of her head and agreed, \u201cYes she is.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam patted her on the bum and said, \u201cLet\u2019s go wrap up the dinner bill and get Em\u2019s presents loaded up in the car.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t you head inside, Babe, and I\u2019ll drive the car up to the front door so we don\u2019t have so far to carry the presents,\u201d Jessica said as she took the key fob from Adam\u2019s hand. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re as smart as you are beautiful,\u201d Adam said kissing his wife tenderly on the lips.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell,\u201d Jessica said sarcastically, \u201cI did go to Harvard and I did marry you didn\u2019t I?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll show you how smart I am in bed tonight, Mrs. Cartwright,\u201d Adam growled grabbing \u00a0<\/span>Jessica\u2019s buttocks,\u00a0giving them a gentle squeeze.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, stop! Someone might see us,\u201d she said giggling, looking around to see if anyone was lurking.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam patted Jessica\u2019s bum again and broke their embrace to open the door for her.\u00a0 <\/span>When she got in the car, he shut the door and walked back toward the restaurant.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica drove the car up to the front and waited for Adam to finish settling the check.\u00a0 <\/span>Once the bill was taken care of, he and the head waiter brought out Jessica\u2019s coat and Emily\u2019s presents.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica moved over to the passenger side, and Adam jumped in the driver\u2019s seat.\u00a0 <\/span>He grabbed Jessica\u2019s hand, and they headed back home.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/p>\n

When they arrived back home, they pulled Emily\u2019s new car in the garage where Jason\u2019s car once was.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA new chapter begins,\u201d he said as he shut off the engine and they both exited the car.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

They walked into the house, and it was dark.\u00a0 <\/span>The only light left on was a lamp in the formal living room.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Jessica brought in the gifts and headed back to Emily\u2019s room where they knocked and found her talking on the phone to her best friend, telling her about her day with Trey and her new car.<\/span><\/p>\n

She put the phone down and thanked both her parents again for the new car and the wonderful surprise celebration.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t stay up too late, Honey, we have to go to church in the morning.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI won\u2019t Mommy, I promise.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Jessica shut Emily\u2019s door as she turned her attention back to her phone call.\u00a0 <\/span>The couple then saw Jillian coming out of her bathroom with her robe on and her hair wrapped in a towel.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid you have fun tonight, riding back with Trey and Emily, Baby Girl?\u201d Jessica asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI did, thank you, Mommy, for letting me go back with them.\u00a0 <\/span>Trey is a very good driver.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m glad to hear that.\u00a0 <\/span>Give Daddy and me a kiss and you get in bed, we have to go to church in the morning.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian reached up, and Adam bent down to give his youngest a kiss and hug goodnight.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian then wrapped her arms around her mother\u2019s waist, and Jessica followed her into her bedroom where she got her a fresh set of pajamas to put on and then tucked her youngest in bed.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSweet dreams, my baby girl, I love you,\u201d Jessica said as she kissed her daughter on the forehead.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam had already head to the bedroom, stripped down to his boxers and was in the bathroom warming up the shower.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica came in behind him.\u00a0 <\/span>Feeling a little playful, she wrapped her arms around him and placed her hands down in his boxers.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI need to liven things up down here don\u2019t I?\u201d she purred in Adam\u2019s ear.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam turned around and found his wife still fully dressed in her tight short black dress which showed off all her womanly assets.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou buy more KY?\u201d Adam asked nibbling on Jessica\u2019s neck, unzipping her dress.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou know I did, it\u2019s already on the nightstand,\u201d Jessica replied moving\u00a0her hands to Adam\u2019s hips, lowering the\u00a0boxers\u00a0off his body.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica slipped out of her dress and let it fall to the floor.\u00a0 <\/span>She was left standing in her black heels, a black lace bra and matching panties which were sheer in the front.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOooh, you seductress, you.\u00a0 <\/span>You wore this lingerie on purpose didn\u2019t you?\u201d Adam whispered as he kissed her ear.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWho me?\u00a0 <\/span>She said as she turned around and rubbed the soft silk panties against Adam\u2019s hardening member.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam unhooked the front closure of Jessica\u2019s bra, and she let it fall from her arms and then she stepped out of her panties and shoes.\u00a0 <\/span>The couple got into the shower and stood under the rain of water falling from the ceiling shower head.<\/span><\/p>\n

After the shower, they continued sharing in their mutual satisfaction in bed. Adam held his wife in his arms, rubbing her arm and feeling the dew of sweat shared by their lovemaking.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica laid her head on Adam\u2019s chest and sighed.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cOur babies are growing up too fast, Daddy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Babe, I know.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, Adam Cartwright,\u201d Jessica said looking up at Adam and kissing him on the lips.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled at his wife and replied, \u201cI love you more.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica smiled and returned her head to Adam\u2019s chest where she fell off to slumber land in the arms of the only man she ever had truly loved.<\/span><\/p>\n

Chapter 16<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

As Thanksgiving approached, Adam, Hoss, and Joe were dreading the holiday as it would be their first without Ben to share it with.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam was particularly affected, as he would also be missing his son who would be spending his first holiday away with Brianna and her family.<\/span><\/p>\n

The weeks following Emily\u2019s birthday and the lead up to Thanksgiving, Adam felt the pressure mounting, and while he usually kept his emotions in check, he found his temper short with his brothers and staff at work.\u00a0 <\/span>He also found himself intolerant of typical sibling bickering between his two daughters and small things Jessica would do which under normal circumstances, were perfectly fine with Adam like taking the girls shopping and buying something frivolous.<\/span><\/p>\n

Thanksgiving Day arrived, and Jessica woke early to begin her long day of cooking.\u00a0 <\/span>She tried hard to hold her emotions of missing her son and father-in-law.\u00a0 <\/span>She wanted to get her emotions out so she could be a good hostess for her extended family who would be coming for dinner later in the afternoon.\u00a0 <\/span>It had been decided the night of Emily\u2019s birthday party when they were all together, the families would gather at Adam and Jessica\u2019s house for Thanksgiving and Christmas this year since they had a large enough home to accommodate everyone comfortably for the holidays.\u00a0 <\/span>The brothers had tossed around having Thanksgiving and Christmas at the Ponderosa but with their father gone, and the house now belonging to Jason, they felt it was time to create a new holiday tradition.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica was busy preparing the turkey to roast in the oven when Adam came around the corner.\u00a0 <\/span>He stopped and watched Jessica as she busied herself with giving the holiday bird her culinary love while wiping tears from her eyes with the towel she kept thrown over her shoulder.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning, Jess, Happy Thanksgiving,\u201d Adam softly said to his wife as she scurried around the kitchen multi-tasking on the large spread she had planned for their family.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHappy Thanksgiving, Adam.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>She answered smiling up at him then turning her attention back to the holiday preparations.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam walked over to Jessica spinning her around and held her in his embrace, staring intently into her eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cToday is going to be a good day.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re brothers, their wives, and children are coming over.\u00a0 <\/span>Trey will be here for Emily, and we\u2019re starting a new tradition.\u00a0 <\/span>Dad will be here with us, just in a different way,\u201d her lips curled upward as a tear escaped her right eye.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled back and simply replied with a shaky, \u201cYeah,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>his eyes misty as he wiped a rogue tear falling down Jessica\u2019s cheek.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam patted Jessica\u2019s bum, breaking away as he asked if he could help her with anything.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica made a cup of coffee for her husband and handed him a croissant she had bought at LA Bakery the day before.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I\u2019m faster without your help, but I\u2019ll need it later when the turkey is ready to be carved.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam left the kitchen and headed into the back yard to the shed to get the\u00a0 <\/span>Christmas lights out for the house.\u00a0 <\/span>It was a Cartwright tradition the Friday after Thanksgiving for Adam to put the lights on the house while Jessica and the girls put the tree up and decorate in anticipation of Christmas.\u00a0 <\/span>Trey had offered to come help Adam with the lights, and he gladly accepted the help.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning, Mommy,\u201d Jessica\u2019s sleepy daughter said as she came dragging into the kitchen half awake, her hair in a tangled mess.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica stopped and smiled at her disheveled looking daughter.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cMorning, Sweetheart, you\u2019re up early, did you sleep well?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI did.\u00a0 <\/span>I slept like a rock.\u00a0 <\/span>The allergy medicine makes me sleepy.\u00a0 <\/span>I think I fell asleep on Trey.\u00a0 <\/span>I woke up this morning with my phone on my pillow.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t remember saying goodbye to him last night.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe doctor gave you some allergy medicine to take during the day so you wouldn\u2019t be so sleepy.\u00a0 <\/span>The medication you took last night is for nighttime only so don\u2019t get them mixed up.\u201d Jessica said, handing her daughter a cup of tea and the daytime allergy pill bottle.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Mommy.\u00a0 <\/span>Daddy up yet?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s in the shed getting out the Christmas lights.\u00a0 <\/span>He\u2019s going to test them to see if he needs to go get any replacements tomorrow morning.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJillie up yet?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Her line of questioning continued as she opened the pill bottle and poured out a pill placing it on her tongue and taking a drink of her hot tea.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I think she\u2019s still be sleeping.\u00a0 <\/span>She got up once during the night with a nightmare.\u00a0 <\/span>I had to come lay down with her for a little bit until she went back to sleep, so she\u2019ll probably sleep in a little longer this morning.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs there anything I can help you with, Mommy, before I go take a shower and call Trey?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily asked, putting the pill bottle back in the cabinet where medicine was kept.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot right now, Sweetheart.\u00a0 <\/span>I need to get the rolls done so they can rise.\u00a0 <\/span>Would you like another cup of tea and a croissant?<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes please.\u00a0 <\/span>Have you ever made homemade croissants, Mommy?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily asked her mother while she poured herself a fresh cup of hot water and her mother put the buttery flaky roll on a plate and brought it to her daughter with a new tea bag.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, they’re tough to make, and it\u2019s easier just to buy them from the bakery,\u201d she winked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThese are so good.\u00a0 <\/span>I could eat a whole box of them by myself.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily replied as she tore off a piece, placed it in her mouth, closing her eyes and sighing as her taste buds came alive from the delicate buttery taste of the French creation.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou want some cherry jam to put on it, Sweetheart?\u201d Jessica smiled as she watched her daughter\u2019s eyes close and dissolve into culinary heaven.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh no, Mommy, they\u2019re amazing\u00a0just like this.\u00a0 <\/span>You know they’re\u00a0perfect when they’re good cold as they are hot.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLA Bakery is the only place to get them, that\u2019s for sure,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica replied, leaning against the island taking a short break to have a bite of a croissant she had taken for herself along with her tea.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam came in through the back door through the three seasons room.\u00a0 <\/span>As he rounded the corner into the kitchen, he said, \u201cJess, do we have any more replacement bulbs from last year?\u00a0 <\/span>We have several lights out on various strings.\u00a0 <\/span>Looks like I\u2019ll need to get a few new strings this year as well.\u00a0 <\/span>Good morning, Princess, Happy Thanksgiving,\u201d Adam said, seeing his daughter now in the kitchen also.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMorning, Daddy,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily said with a mouth full of bread.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam kissed his daughter on the top of her head and pat her on the bum, \u201cDon\u2019t talk with your mouth full of food, Princess, it\u2019s not ladylike,\u201d he smiled as he headed out to the garage to look in the custom cabinets he had built for the replacement bulbs. <\/span><\/p>\n

Emily swallowed and replied, \u201cSorry, Daddy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

When Adam returned to the kitchen with a few cards of replacement lights, Emily stopped him on his way back out to the backyard.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy, Trey and I want to talk to you and Mommy tonight about something after everyone leaves, can we or shall we wait until tomorrow?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs it something urgent, Princess? Do we need to talk about it today?\u201d Adam\u2019s brows furrowed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Daddy, it\u2019s nothing urgent or to be concerned with.\u00a0 <\/span>He just wants to talk to you and Mommy about something he would like to do with me, but he wants to get your blessing of course.\u00a0 <\/span>You know how Trey is.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s a good boy, Sweetheart.\u00a0 <\/span>Daddy and I really like him.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said as she added yeast, sugar, and water to the mixing bowl.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe really likes you and Daddy, too, Mommy.\u00a0 <\/span>He says you make him feel like part of the family, and he really appreciates it very much,\u201d Emily grinned.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam put his arm around his daughter and gave her a light squeeze.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWe appreciate how he treats you, too!\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam headed back outside to replace the lights which were burned out to get them ready for hanging on the house the next day.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once the dough for the rolls was made in the bowl to rise for the first time, and the turkey was in the oven at a low temperature, Jessica headed back to the room she shared with Adam, and she laid down for a little while.\u00a0 <\/span>When Adam came back into their room and saw his wife laying down with her arm draped across her forehead, he sat down and rubbed her stomach.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou feeling okay, Babe?\u201d he asked tenderly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m fine.\u00a0 <\/span>Just a little tired and emotionally drained, that\u2019s all.\u00a0 <\/span>What\u2019s the situation with the lights?\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked as she moved her hand to Adam\u2019s, interlocking her fingers with his.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam laid down next to Jessica and said, \u201cAll ready to go, just need to make a quick run to the store tomorrow and get a couple of new strings, and we\u2019ll be ready to hang them.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll go first thing in the morning before Trey gets here so I can have everything set by the time he arrives.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cSounds like you have it all under control, Mr. Cartwright.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam leaned down and kissed his wife tenderly.\u00a0 <\/span>Looking into her big blue eyes, he asked, \u201cYou need to rest or???\u201d with a growl in his voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHmm, it\u2019s Thanksgiving, it\u2019s a day to give thanks, isn\u2019t it?\u201d she purred back.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam gave his wife a quick kiss on the lips, got up to close the door and lock the knob so they wouldn\u2019t be disturbed.\u00a0 <\/span>As he returned to the bed, he began to undress as did Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>The two giggled as they began to explore each other, heightening their desire.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

After bringing the other to full satisfaction, they laid next to each other feeling the warmth of their dewy skin.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam continued to fondle Jessica\u2019s breasts as they talked about everything from the love they had for each other to what was planned for the rest of the day.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam was starting to get a bit frisky again when the couple heard a knock at their door.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam grabbed his robe and put it on to answer the door.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily, who had showered and was fully dressed, came to tell her parents she was headed to Trey\u2019s house to watch the first Thanksgiving football game with him\u00a0but would be home in time for the afternoon game between San Francisco and Dallas.\u00a0 <\/span>She saw her mother lying in bed, sheets pulled up to her shoulders, both of their clothes strung out on the floor.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUh, I\u2019m so sorry, Mommy and Daddy, I didn\u2019t know.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Her face blushed different hues of red.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI was just coming to tell you I was leaving,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>she turned and hid her embarrassment. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica grabbed her robe and went to the door.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cSweetheart, it\u2019s okay, you didn\u2019t disturb anything,\u201d Jessica winked at Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWe were done.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, stop!\u201d Emily laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica took her daughter into her arms.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Sweetheart, it\u2019s just Daddy and I love to tease you and watch you squirm.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian came from her bathroom and saw Emily at her parent\u2019s bedroom door.\u00a0 <\/span>She came down to see what was going on.\u00a0 <\/span>When she saw her parents in their robes, clothes strewn about on the floor, she rolled her eyes and continued on back to her room.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cReally, Mommy and Daddy? It\u2019s Thanksgiving!\u201d she said as she walked away.<\/span><\/p>\n

The three laughed.\u00a0 <\/span>The two lovebirds gave Emily a kiss, telling her to have a great time with Trey and his family.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t forget the bottle of wine and fruit basket.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s on the island in the kitchen,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said as Emily headed back up the hall toward the kitchen and garage.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica closed the door and locked it back.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cNow, where were we?\u201d she asked as she undid the tie around her robe, slipping it off her shoulders and letting it fall to the ground as she moved back toward Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam watched with excitement as his wife came to him and undid the tie on his robe. \u201cI need a shower.\u00a0 <\/span>Wanna scrub my back, fella?\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou little sex kitten, you,\u201d Adam said as he picked Jessica up and carried her into the bathroom.<\/span><\/p>\n

He sat her down on the ground and turned on the shower heads.\u00a0 <\/span>He took her back into his arms and pressed his body up against hers.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWoman, you bring the animal out in me,\u201d he growled kissing her neck and fondling her breasts.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, Adam, and I never want to lose the intimacy we share with each other.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The couple got into the shower and enjoyed another encounter before they bathed each other clean.\u00a0 <\/span>Once out of the shower, Jessica put the towel around her body and her head.\u00a0 <\/span>She went back into the bedroom to pick up their clothes they had thrown to the floor when they undressed. \u00a0 <\/span>Jessica made the bed while Adam was in the bathroom shaving.\u00a0 <\/span>She unlocked the door and went to the chest of drawers to get a pair clean panties for her and boxers for Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>She tossed him his pair, and he placed them on the edge of the jacuzzi tub as he continued to manicure his beard.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica put her panties and bra on and came into the bathroom to finish drying her hair and turn on her hair rollers to heat up.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam dropped his towel and put his boxers on after he finished shaving.\u00a0 <\/span>The sexiness of his wife standing in her bra and panties overtook him.\u00a0 <\/span>He came and wrapped his arms around his wife just as she had begun to put the rollers in her hair.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you know what you do to me when you\u2019re standing there half naked?\u201d he said giving her a playful slap on her bum.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh yes, it\u2019s the no make-up and rollers in my hair that brings out the epitome of sexy in me,\u201d Jessica laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you all natural: no make-up, your hair wet, and just like this, bra, panties, nothing…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica turned and scrunched up her nose, \u201cReally?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBabe, you are gorgeous just the way you are.\u00a0 <\/span>I love you with all the make-up and hair, but I adore you just natural, too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou act as I put on makeup like a drag queen, Adam,\u201d she smiled as she turned back to the mirror to put another roller in her hair.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Babe, I didn\u2019t mean it to come out that way.\u00a0 <\/span>Your make-up is very tastefully done.\u00a0 <\/span>You look beautiful with makeup.\u00a0 <\/span>It enhances the gorgeous face you naturally have.\u00a0 <\/span>I appreciate you wearing minimal make-up.\u00a0 <\/span>I think a woman looks ridiculous when she looks like she\u2019s wearing war paint.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica laughed as she put the last roller in her hair and began her skin care regimen.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cThe older I get, the more serums and creams I need to use to keep my face looking youthful and sexy for my gorgeous husband who, the older he gets, is more sexy and distinguished.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam twisted his wife in his arms, \u201cYou\u2019re the most beautiful woman in the whole world.\u00a0 <\/span>You will be just as beautiful to me at 90 as you were when I first laid eyes on you at Harvard.\u00a0 <\/span>We’re blessed to have produced three gorgeous children who look just like you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAwe, thanks, Babe, you know how to flatter a woman.\u00a0 <\/span>I will say, however, the older Jason gets, the more he looks like you.\u00a0 <\/span>He\u2019s got natural waves in his hair, and he\u2019s got your eyes and strong jaw line.\u00a0 <\/span>He\u2019s got your height, too, thank goodness.\u00a0 <\/span>I see you in the girls, also.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily is the spitting image of you, Babe.\u00a0 <\/span>She looks just like you did at Harvard.\u00a0 <\/span>She has your personality, too.\u201d \u00a0 <\/span>Adam winked in his mirror across from Jessica\u2019s. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica spun around, her mouth wide open but with a smile shining in her eyes.\u00a0 <\/span>She looked over in the mirror across the bathroom at Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cAre you saying I\u2019m a drama queen like our dear daughter?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam laughed at Jessica as she had one eye done and the other still was in need of shadow.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019m sorry, Babe, you need to look at yourself.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica looked at herself in the mirror.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWhat?\u201d she said as she looked at herself and then back at Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNothing, just finish putting your eye-shadow on,\u201d he turned her shoulders and had her look at herself in the mirror.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica then realized what Adam meant and laughed.\u00a0 <\/span>He went into the bedroom and into the closet where he got out a pair of blue Tommy Hilfiger chinos to wear for the day.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWear the light pink shirt, Babe, I love you in pink.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou love pink period, Sweetheart,\u201d Adam laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think Emily loves it more than me,” she replied from the bathroom.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI believe you ‘re right.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam came back into the bathroom to brush his teeth.\u00a0 <\/span>He had put the pink shirt on, and it was untucked and unbuttoned.\u00a0 <\/span>He brushed his teeth as Jessica took down the rollers from her hair and gently took a hair pick and lightly brushed out the curls.\u00a0 <\/span>She gave her hair a light mist of hair spray and turned to Adam, who was rinsing his mouth with water.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou ready for the day, Sweetheart?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>She asked as he dried his mouth.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI should ask you the same thing,\u201d Adam came to Jessica pulling her to him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll make it through like we always do…as a family.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica brushed Adam\u2019s lips tenderly with hers.<\/span><\/p>\n

Several hours had passed.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica was back in the kitchen, continuing to put her chef inspired touches on the holiday feast cooking while Adam sat with Jillian in the family room working on a science project she had been given to complete over the long holiday weekend.<\/span><\/p>\n

The father-daughter conversation was interrupted by the doorbell.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll get it,\u201d Emily yelled from the back of the house.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUncle Hoss, Aunt Carolyn, Happy Thanksgiving,\u201d She said as she welcomed Adam\u2019s brother, his wife and their two children in the house.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy and Daddy should be out shortly,\u201d she said as she took one of the two homemade pies from her aunt.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThese look delicious, Aunt Carolyn, is this the apple blueberry cherry pie I love so much?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI made it just for you, Sweetheart.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, Older Brother, Happy Thanksgiving,\u201d Hoss smiled largely as he saw Adam and Jillian come around the corner.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHey, Jillian, how are ya? Where\u2019s that cute momma of yours?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m right here, Hoss,\u201d Jessica replied as she came from the kitchen, drying her hands on her apron.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou know you\u2019re in 49er country don\u2019t ya, little one?\u201d Hoss winked at his youngest niece who was an avid Cowboys fan.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh she\u2019s quite aware, but she doesn\u2019t let it deter her from her boys with the blue star.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s their biggest fan.\u201d Adam ruffled her hair.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re going to slaughter the 9ers today, Uncle Hoss.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll make new history with a new Hail Mary, and my boys will make \u2018The Catch\u2019 look like the red and gold have gone fly fishing,\u201d she said with conviction, standing with her arms wrapped around her chest.<\/span><\/p>\n

Both Cartwright families laughed at Jillian\u2019s referral of two important sports history-making moments in both franchise\u2019s histories. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe knows quite a bit about football doesn\u2019t she,\u201d Hoss took his niece into a playing choke hold.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t mess with her Cowboys.\u00a0 <\/span>She can tell you every stat on each of the players, and she knows the history of the team since it\u2019s inception.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica noted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow bout a game of checkers before the game, Uncle Hoss.\u00a0 <\/span>Like my Boys, I\u2019ll give you a pre-game taste of what\u2019s going to happen later today.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a match, lil filly, where\u2019s the game board.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam took Hoss\u2019 and Carolyn\u2019s child, and they all headed toward the kitchen while Hoss and Jillian headed toward the den to start their checker tournament.<\/span><\/p>\n

The doorbell rang again, and Emily ran to answer it.\u00a0 <\/span>Trey was on the other side of the door.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHappy Thanksgiving, again, Babe,\u201d he said as he walked in the house with a couple of bottles of wine, giving Emily a kiss on the cheek.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily took the bottles of wine from him, and they headed back to the kitchen to leave them with Jessica.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, Daddy, Trey\u2019s here, and he came bearing gifts.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Adam, Jessica,\u00a0 <\/span>Happy Thanksgiving,\u201d he said as he extended his hand to shake Adam\u2019s hand and hug Jessica.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou remember my Aunt Carolyn; she\u2019s my Uncle Hoss\u2019 wife.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I remember, it’s good to see you again, Carolyn, only this time under much happier circumstances.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, it is, Trey, it\u2019s good to see you again, too.\u00a0 <\/span>Happy Thanksgiving,\u201d she said as she shook his hand.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re going to go watch Jillian murder Uncle Hoss at Checkers,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily grinned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe learned from the checker king; your brother,\u201d Adam laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

As they walked toward the den and had a little privacy, Trey grabbed Emily\u2019s arm, spun her around into his and gave her a proper kiss on her lips.\u00a0 <\/span>She stood mesmerized for a few seconds and then laid her head on his chest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI want to talk to your mom and dad this evening after everyone leaves about the week between Christmas and New Years.\u00a0 <\/span>How do you think they\u2019ll react?\u201d Trey asked Emily.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, it\u2019s hard to say.\u00a0 <\/span>I think Mommy would probably be okay with it, but Daddy is the one I\u2019m not sure about.\u00a0 <\/span>He\u2019s so overprotective.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe can only ask, but I\u2019ll respect his decision, whatever it is,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Trey said as he took Emily\u2019s hand and they continued to the den.<\/span><\/p>\n

As they walked past the formal living area, they heard the doorbell ring again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll get it!\u201d Emily yelled again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUncle Joe, Aunt Donna, Happy Thanksgiving, come in.\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy and Daddy are in the back with Aunt Carolyn and the kids.\u00a0 <\/span>Uncle Hoss is getting creamed by Jillie at checkers in the den, that\u2019s where we\u2019re headed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe and Donna gave their eldest niece a kiss on her forehead, wished a happy holiday to her and Trey, and headed back to the kitchen where the other grown ups had gathered.\u00a0 <\/span>Joe was carrying a box which held three different pies: apple, cherry, and banana cream.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDonna, these look divine,\u201d Jessica said as she took the desserts out and placed the two fruit pies on the side buffet in her large chef\u2019s inspired kitchen and the banana cream pie in the refrigerator.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, Older Brother, Happy Thanksgiving,\u201d Joe came over to give his brother a big hug.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam gave Donna a hug as well and wished her a Happy Thanksgiving.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll leave you girls to what you enjoy.\u00a0 <\/span>Joe and I will go watch Hoss sweat a few pounds away while Jillian strategically takes him down.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Once the boys left for the den, Jessica offered her two sisters-in-law a glass of wine.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you need any help with anything right now?\u201d Donna asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, everything that needs to be in the oven is in there right now.\u00a0 <\/span>I have the stuffing all made, it just needs to be put in the oven when I take the turkey out.\u00a0 <\/span>I made the fresh cranberry last night, and my veggies are all ready to be steamed right before dinner.\u00a0 <\/span>I think we need to take this bottle of wine and our glasses into the three seasons room and catch up.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica grabbed the wine and led the way into the back room.<\/span><\/p>\n

After all the girls had settled into their seats and the wine was poured, Jessica asked how the other two Cartwrights were handling the first major holiday without their father-in-law, Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s been hard on Hoss,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>explained Carolyn.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHe still blames himself for not being able to get Dad to the hospital any faster.\u00a0 <\/span>He feels like he should have tried other things to save him while he was waiting for the paramedics to get to the house.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Carolyn swished her wine in the Waterford Lismore wine glass.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe\u2019s been really taking it hard, too,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Donna joined in.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI\u2019ve woken a few times in the night to find him looking out into the yard with tears running down his face.\u00a0 <\/span>He misses Dad so much, we all do.\u00a0 <\/span>How is Adam handling things?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica sighed.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHe\u2019s not handling it any better than Hoss or Joe, I\u2019m afraid.\u00a0 <\/span>He\u2019s been moody, and he\u2019s snapped at the girls for stupid little things that would normally not be a big deal to him.\u00a0 <\/span>I console them and tell them Daddy\u2019s just having a hard time.\u00a0 <\/span>I try to bite my tongue with him because I know it\u2019s just the sadness.\u00a0 <\/span>If it continues, however, I will have to say something and suggest he go to counseling, which I know will go over like a lead balloon.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow are you doing with this being the first holiday without Jason being here? I know it has to be rough on you guys.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Carolyn questioned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, you have no idea, girl.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica\u2019s voice was shaky.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHold on to your babies as long as you can.\u00a0 <\/span>Before you know it, they\u2019ll be grown, falling in love, and beginning their own families.\u00a0 <\/span>I want my little boy back, but I have to realize he\u2019s now a man, and I don\u2019t want to accept it.\u00a0 <\/span>He\u2019ll always be my baby boy,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica bowed her head trying to control the tears.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Jess, I never meant to make you cry.\u00a0 <\/span>Every time I think of my babies growing up, I tell them they have to stay small forever,\u201d Carolyn smiled, trying to lighten the mood.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, girls, I didn\u2019t mean to be a blubbering Mom, who can\u2019t accept her kids are gaining their independence and starting a new life with their beloved,\u201d she said wiping her eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a mother\u2019s right as far as I\u2019m concerned,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Donna smiled and Carolyn nodded her head in agreement.<\/span><\/p>\n

It was shortly after 1:00 PM and they heard a loud roar coming from the den.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe game is on, I wonder if that was a roar of cheer or jeer,\u201d Jessica laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPoor Jillian, she\u2019s the lone Cowboys fan in 49er country isn\u2019t she? How did she become such a Dallas fan?\u201d Donna asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe were at the mall one day in Reno.\u00a0 <\/span>The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders were there for some type of show. \u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t remember now, but they were doing one of their dances in the middle of the mall, and we stopped to watch.\u00a0 <\/span>She was mesmerized by the outfits, the precision of their dancing and of course they\u2019re all so beautiful, and they look amazing in their uniforms.\u00a0 <\/span>We got to meet them and get their autographs and take pictures with them.\u00a0 <\/span>She fell in love with the cheerleaders and has been a fan of the football team ever since.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s told me she wants to be a cheerleader for the Cowboys one day.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam says there\u2019s no way he\u2019s going to let his daughter wear skimpy shorts and cowboy boots while shaking her groove thing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The three sisters-in-law laughed hysterically as they could only imagine Adam making a statement about his daughter becoming a world famous cheerleader.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure he admires the view when they\u2019re on TV, though,\u201d Donna winked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh of course he does! I see his lips turn up into a smile when he sees the girls shaking their pom poms on the sidelines.\u00a0 <\/span>He does the same with the 49er girls, too, but he says there\u2019s just something about the Cowboys Cheerleaders.\u00a0 <\/span>Probably because they\u2019re the originals, and truly, they are the cream of the crop.\u00a0 <\/span>We were going to enroll Jillian in dance this last semester, however, with Dad\u2019s death and everything else going on, we decided to wait until after the holidays when they’re enrolling for the spring.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019ll love it.\u00a0 <\/span>When she comes over to stay overnight with us, she and Joe will play with the karaoke machine, and she\u2019ll dance to the music.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s quite good, too.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Donna said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s looking forward to the classes.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s really serious about wanting to be a cheerleader someday.\u00a0 <\/span>I want her to follow her dream, whatever it may be.\u00a0 <\/span>I know some of those girls are professionals, others are in college, but they find the balance.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian watches Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders:\u00a0 <\/span>Making the Team<\/em> on CMT<\/em> so she sees what hard work and determination these girls have and what they have to do to keep up the demanding schedule they have to endure.\u00a0 <\/span>She\u2019s already told Adam and I she wants to go to SMU down in Dallas so she can try out for the team while in school.\u00a0 <\/span>While Adam protests the skimpy shorts, I know he would be in full support of her living her dream and would be very proud of her if she did make it someday.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI guess you two would have to get seasons tickets to Dallas\u2019 home games so you could go watch her perform if she did make it, huh? Can you see Adam cheering on the Cowboys?\u201d Carolyn asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam would be a Cowboys fan in cheerleader name only,\u201d Jessica laughed.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cYes, we would get seasons tickets and fly down to Dallas every home game if Jillian ever made the squad.\u00a0 <\/span>How could we not support our daughter if she were to be among the elite club of the most famous cheerleaders in the world?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Throughout the next few hours, the girls heard cheers from the family and Trey, and a single loud jeer from Jillian.\u00a0 <\/span>Other times, they would hear Jillian whooping it up while the others would cry foul and a bad ref call. <\/span><\/p>\n

When half time arrived, Adam came out with his brothers to get some beer as they talked about the missed chances the 49ers had during the first half and the bad calls which were made by the refs on the field and in the box.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re just jealous because my boys are winning!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian said smugly as she came out to get sodas for her, Emily, and Trey.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019s the game?\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked as Adam came in to check on everyone to see what they were up to.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re just in here talking, laughing when we hear you screaming at the TV,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica smiled, looking up at Adam, answering his question.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s cell phone rang, and he pulled it from his pocket and saw it was Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>He answered the phone saying, \u201cHello, Son, Happy Thanksgiving!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica put her hands to her mouth and tears started to flow from her eyes.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHi, Sweetheart! Happy Thanksgiving, I love you,\u201d she said as she grabbed the phone from Adam\u2019s hand.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica put Jason on speaker, and Adam went to get Emily and Trey to join the family in the three seasons room so everyone could talk to Jason for a few minutes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI thought I would call at half time as I know you\u2019ll be sitting down to dinner after the game.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna and I wanted to tell everyone we love you, we miss you, wish you a Happy Thanksgiving, and say to you we\u2019ll see you all at Christmas.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHappy Thanksgiving!\u201d Brianna said over the speakerphone on her end.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, Brother, Happy Thanksgiving!\u201d Emily said as she and Trey entered the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, little sis, we miss you and Peanut so much.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll see you in about three weeks.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan\u2019t wait, Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>I miss you and Brie.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian chimed in.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPeanut, your team\u2019s holding their own today aren\u2019t they?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason asked<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes!\u201d Jillian replied with satisfaction.<\/span><\/p>\n

After a short conversation, Brianna and Jason ended their call to the Nevada Cartwrights and joined back with Brianna\u2019s family.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam, Hoss, Joe, along with Jillian, Trey, and Emily all went back into the den to resume the second half of the game while the three wives worked on getting dinner finished and ready to eat after the game was over.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, how was the game, Baby Girl?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked as Jillian came into the kitchen with a huge grin on her face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe wiped the floor with them.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>She boasted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI take it your team won?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Donna asked with a chuckle in her voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYep, we sure did.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s going to be a long plane ride back to San Francisco for those boys.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian replied as she took a carrot stick from the crystal tray lying on the island.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, Babe, are you ready for me to carve and plate the turkey?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam said as he entered the kitchen, not mentioning the outcome of the football game.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I just took it out of the oven about 15 minutes ago, it\u2019s ready to be carved.\u00a0 <\/span>Uh, I heard it\u2019s going to be a long flight home for the 9ers?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked as she cut up the last of the raw veggie sticks which would be placed on the buffet in the formal dining room where all the Thanksgiving delights would be displayed and enjoyed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s not talk about it,\u201d Adam chuckled.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian\u2019s already advised us who\u2019s superior, but we\u2019ll see which team ends up in the playoffs,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam smiled as he sharpened his carving knife.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once the food was prepared, the family sat down to say grace and a prayer for their father and grandfather who couldn\u2019t be there in body but was with them in spirit.\u00a0 <\/span>They each got up to peruse the buffet, ladies first, filling their plates with the holiday feast.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica poured wine for the adults, and the kids enjoyed their choice of iced or hot tea and coffee.\u00a0 <\/span>Once everyone was seated, the only thing heard was the tinkling of forks and knives hitting the fine bone Lenox china which finished off the beautifully appointed tablescape.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJess, I don\u2019t know what magic you have in those ten fingers of yours, but this rivals Hop Sing\u2019s Thanksgiving spread,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Hoss said as he buttered a homemade yeast roll.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe cooks with tons of love, Brother,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam said, winking at his wife sitting at the other head of the table.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica smiled and replied, \u201cI have big shoes to fill.\u00a0 <\/span>Hop Sing set the bar high when it comes to holiday fare so I\u2019m glad you\u2019re enjoying it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Carolyn rubbed her husband\u2019s arm and chimed in, \u201cThere\u2019s not much this big ole lug of mine doesn\u2019t like, but he\u2019s right, this is just fantastic, Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>Thank you so much for going to all the trouble to make such an excellent meal.\u00a0 <\/span>I know Dad would\u2019ve been proud.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe sure would have,\u201d interjected Joe.\u00a0 <\/span>He always boasted about what a fantastic cook you are.\u00a0 <\/span>He used to say Jessica could hold her own with some world class chefs while his other two daughters-in-laws could bake like any world famous pastry chef.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTrey, wait until you try my aunt\u2019s pies, your taste buds will dance with delight, I promise,\u201d Emily commented.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJillie, I even made your favorite, banana cream pie,\u201d Donna smiled at her youngest niece sitting across the table from her.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian bounced up and down in her chair with excitement because other than her Dallas Cowboys winning the turkey day game, she would get to enjoy her aunt\u2019s delicious sweet treat.<\/span><\/p>\n

As dinner wound down, and the last of the wine was consumed, Jessica got up and started to clear the dishes.\u00a0 <\/span>Donna and Carolyn also rose to help her and take the uneaten food back to the kitchen to be stored and made into leftovers for the weekend.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily also got up to help clear the plates, but Jillian knew she was not allowed to carry the fine china or crystal goblets into the kitchen.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTrey, you\u2019re a senior this year aren\u2019t cha?\u201d Hoss asked as the boys started to talk sports as they let their food settle while the girls washed dishes and prepared for dessert.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Sir, I am.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m hoping to attend Stanford in the fall.\u00a0 <\/span>The scouts came to see me play a few times this past season, and my dad and I have been in talks with them to play football.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s pretty much a done deal that I\u2019ll be playing ball on scholarship.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou want to move on to the NFL when you graduate then?\u201d Joe joined in the conversation.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Sir, that\u2019s the plan.\u00a0 <\/span>My father is a professional sports agent.\u00a0 <\/span>He owns a talent agency in L.A.\u00a0 <\/span>He\u2019ll have one of his partners represent me in the draft my senior year.\u00a0 <\/span>My parents are divorced, I live with my mother and stepfather.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Both men listened to Trey talk about his college plans and life in the NFL after graduation as Adam looked on smiling.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam\u2019s brothers had only met Emily\u2019s boyfriend one time before the holiday when he came to Ben\u2019s funeral. <\/span><\/p>\n

The girls reentered the formal dining room with the coffee service, pies, dessert plates, and forks. They laid everything on the buffet for serving.\u00a0 <\/span>Each of the boys gave their orders as each of the wives cut the pies of choice, and Emily scooped ice cream, poured coffee and served.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica cut a piece of banana cream pie for Jillian first and took it over to her daughter.\u00a0 <\/span>She politely waited till everyone was served, but did dip her finger into the mountain of whipped cream on top and smiled with delight.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam cut his eyes to his daughter and smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>He knew it was her favorite, and since she only got to enjoy it on the main holidays, he didn\u2019t say anything about her not being able to wait until everyone was served and sitting down to enjoy their pie selection before indulging in her piece.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once everyone was served, Jessica sat her plate at her seat and hurriedly closed up the ice cream, taking it back to the freezer.\u00a0 <\/span>Once she returned, everyone dove into their sweet ending to a perfect meal and day.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEverything was excellent today, Jessica, I thank you and Adam for inviting me to spend the day with you and your family.\u00a0 <\/span>Mom and Dad went to my Aunt Lydia and Uncle Brett\u2019s house up in Salt Lake City.\u00a0 <\/span>I have a big exam on Monday, so I asked if I could stay back this year.\u00a0 <\/span>They reluctantly agreed and were thankful you had opened your home to me so I wouldn\u2019t be spending the holiday alone.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019d never let that happen,\u201d Emily curled her arm around Trey\u2019s and placed her head on his arm looking up at him with loving eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen will they return? Adam asked.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019ll be coming back on Monday.\u00a0 <\/span>They should be home sometime in the evening.\u00a0 <\/span>Their staff will be minding the store tomorrow, and Saturday and they\u2019re closed on Mondays.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat type of store do your parents own?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Donna inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThey own Carson-Tahoe Jewelry on Fairview,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Trey replied with a smile to Donna.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoney, isn\u2019t that where we bought our wedding rings?\u201d Donna looked over at Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe one and only,\u201d Joe smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI had no idea your parents owned Carson-Tahoe Jewelry.\u00a0 <\/span>They have exquisite jewelry creations there.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve bought all of my wife\u2019s jewelry from them.\u00a0 <\/span>They are a cut above the competition.\u00a0 <\/span>I guess I never put the two together as your last name is Hollingsworth, but it makes sense now knowing your mother is divorced and remarried.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m glad to hear you appreciate my stepfather\u2019s and mother\u2019s jewelry.\u00a0 <\/span>My stepfather customizes all the settings himself unless the customer has a setting already and their just replacing stones.\u00a0 <\/span>When he met my mom, he brought her in the business, and she\u2019s now is a certified gemologist and travels the world to source unusual stones.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll sometimes go and help them on the weekends, during the holidays, and around Valentine\u2019s Day when they\u2019re busy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy, you and Mommy have an anniversary coming up…Just sayin,\u201d Emily winked at her father.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou let Daddy worry about my anniversary gift, Princess.\u00a0 <\/span>If I need your assistance, I\u2019ll be sure to let you know,\u201d he winked back at his eldest daughter.<\/span><\/p>\n

Trey sat and smiled at Adam and Emily\u2019s banter.\u00a0 <\/span>He appreciated the closeness of father and daughter and wished he could have had a bond with his father growing up, but his father and mother had divorced when he was six.\u00a0 <\/span>He never got to spend quality time to build a bond a father and son should have.\u00a0 <\/span>He had developed a better relationship with his father in the past few years as he accelerated in sports and became a potential college all-star and draft pick for\u00a0the NFL.\u00a0 <\/span>Trey loved his father and was glad for whatever reason they were finally getting to know each other and building a father and son bond.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the early evening turned into night, Hoss and Joe\u2019s children were beginning to get cranky so they knew it was time to call it a night.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica, Carolyn, and Donna all went into the kitchen to gather up to go containers Jessica had made for each family with leftover turkey, dressing, gravy, and homemade cranberry sauce to take home and enjoy over the weekend.\u00a0 <\/span>As they each took their bags, the men gathered up the children, put their jackets on each of them, and helped their wives on with their coats.\u00a0 <\/span>Everyone shared hugs and kisses as they departed out the door to head to their homes on the Ponderosa.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam shut the door and headed into the kitchen to help Jessica carry the china, silver and crystal back to the formal dining room where she stored the fine dinnerware in the china cabinet and buffet.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, Daddy, can Trey and I talk to you in the formal living room for a few minutes?\u00a0 <\/span>Trey has something he would like to speak to you about.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Jessica stopped and looked at each other.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cJust leave it stacked here on top of the buffet and I\u2019ll put it up tomorrow,\u201d Jessica said.\u00a0 <\/span>She walked toward Adam, and he grabbed her hand as the two couples headed into the formal living area and sat down so Trey could explain what was on his mind.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, Jessica,\u201d Trey fidgeted a bit, nervous to talk to them about the upcoming trip he wanted to request permission for Emily to accompany him on.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cMy father and his fianc\u00e9e are getting married on New Year\u2019s Eve this year…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh how lovely,\u201d Jessica interrupted.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam and I were married on New Year\u2019s Eve as well.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Trey smiled and replied, \u201cYes, Emily has told me.\u00a0 <\/span>It must be a good omen to be married on the last day of the year as I see you have a beautiful marriage and I hope the same for my father and his fianc\u00e9e, Lauren.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat a pretty name, Jessica replied again, curling up next to Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo what\u2019s on your mind, Trey,\u201d Adam asked, trying to steer the conversation back to its original intent.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy father and soon to be step-mother own a chalet in Aspen, Colorado.\u00a0 <\/span>They\u2019ll be getting married in Aspen.\u00a0 Lauren<\/span>\u00a0has a daughter from a previous marriage and she\u2019s Emily\u2019s age.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll be heading to Aspen with my father and Lauren\u00a0the day after Christmas and staying until New Year\u2019s Day.\u00a0 <\/span>My new step-sister will be joining us on the 27th; she\u2019ll be at her father\u2019s for Christmas.\u00a0 <\/span>My dad and Lauren\u00a0are coming here to Carson City to spend Christmas with me.\u00a0 <\/span>My dad\u2019s company has a corporate jet.\u00a0 <\/span>We’ll leave from here on the plane for Aspen and then return home on a commercial flight after the wedding.\u00a0 <\/span>My father will arrange for transportation back to Carson City from Reno airport so there would not be a need for anyone to come pick us up…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll, us?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam interrupted with his brow arched, wondering where this conversation was headed.<\/span><\/p>\n

My dad has opened the invitation for Emily to come for the wedding and spend the week in Aspen with me and my new step-sister.\u00a0 <\/span>I would like to ask permission for Emily to go with us the day after Christmas and we\u2019ll return on New Year\u2019s Day.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019ll be able to meet my father and his fianc\u00e9e when they arrive on the 23rd.\u00a0 <\/span>If you\u2019re not busy, my dad has requested the honor of taking you and Jessica to Glen Eagle Steak House that evening to get to know the two of you, and you know him and Lauren.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily could see Trey\u2019s hands shaking, so she grabbed his hand to calm his nerves.\u00a0 <\/span>He knew it was a long shot Emily would be able to accompany him on a trip out of the state, but he felt he needed to ask on the off chance her parents would agree to let her go.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam sighed deeply.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica looked at her husband for direction.\u00a0 <\/span>She smiled and said, \u201cAdam, what do you think?\u00a0 <\/span>Trey\u2019s step-sister is Em\u2019s age, and we\u2019ll meet his father and fianc\u00e9e when they arrive.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked at his wife as if she had two heads.\u00a0 <\/span>He found it hard to believe she would actually entertain allowing their sixteen-year-old daughter to go away to Aspen with her boyfriend.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam decided before flat out denying this gracious invitation, he would get more information, so he began to ask questions he had for Trey.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat type of sleeping arrangements will there be?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily was surprised her father had not come right and out and said no, and her lips turned up at the possibility she might be able to go since her father was asking qualifying questions.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy dad\u2019s condo has four bedrooms.\u00a0 <\/span>We would each have our own.\u00a0 <\/span>My dad will buy all ski lift tickets as well as pay for all of Emily\u2019s expenses while she\u2019s with us in Aspen.\u00a0 <\/span>He said all she would need are her skis if she didn\u2019t want to rent them, and her clothes she would wear while we\u2019re there. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat type of plans are in the works activity wise?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Was Adam\u2019s next question.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe would leave on the 26th in the afternoon.\u00a0 <\/span>We will fly into Aspen and settle into the condo.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s a resort where my dad and Lauren\u00a0have a home so there are many things to do other than skiing.\u00a0 <\/span>We can go cross country skiing, ice skating and the resort has lots of activities around the chalet as well.\u00a0 <\/span>Kendall, Lauren\u2019s daughter, will be coming on the morning of the 27th, so we\u2019ll go pick her up from the airport that morning.\u00a0 <\/span>We are all avid skiers so we plan to ski the slopes every day except New Year\u2019s Eve.\u00a0 <\/span>My dad and Lauren\u00a0will be getting married in the late morning, and we\u2019ll be having a celebration lunch afterward.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure they\u2019ll not be staying at the condo on their wedding night?\u201d Adam\u2019s eyebrows arched again as he asked the question, knowing what the answer would be.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Sir, won’t be.\u00a0 <\/span>They\u2019re staying at the St. Regis Hotel, which is where their wedding will also be held.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd what about you?\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019ll be at the condo?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Sir.\u00a0 <\/span>The resort is gated, and only registered guests of the resort or owners of the condos are allowed onto the grounds so it\u2019s very safe.\u00a0 <\/span>My dad and Lauren\u00a0will be back the next morning, and they\u2019ll take us to the airport to catch a flight back to Reno.\u00a0 <\/span>He, Lauren, and Kendall will fly back to L.A. on the corporate jet where they\u2019ll leave Kendall and head off to their honeymoon in Fiji.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow lovely.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve told Adam I want to go to Fiji; to Turtle Island.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTurtle Island is where my dad and Lauren\u00a0are going for their honeymoon, Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sure she\u2019ll be happy to share her experience with you when they return.\u00a0 <\/span>They\u2019ll be coming for my graduation in the spring.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I would love to hear all about it!\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m so jealous…a good jealous,\u201d Jessica smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, what do you think, Babe?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>I believe that it would be a once in a lifetime opportunity for Emily.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll be able to meet Trey\u2019s father and his fianc\u00e9e before Christmas.\u00a0 Lauren<\/span>\u2019s daughter is Emily\u2019s age, and the kids will have lots of activities to do while they\u2019re there so they won\u2019t be bored.\u00a0 <\/span>What will you three do on New Year\u2019s Eve?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica turned her attention back to Trey.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe resort has a big masquerade ball every New Year\u2019s Eve.\u00a0 <\/span>If you allow Emily to go, we\u2019ll go shopping for a ball gown and a mask to wear.\u00a0 <\/span>Of course, I\u2019ll pay for her dress, mask, and everything needed for the ball.\u00a0 Lauren<\/span>\u00a0told me she and my dad attended last year, and she said they had so much fun.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry about buying her dress, Trey, I can take her to get a dress,\u201d Jessica smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo does this mean I can go?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily looked anxiously at both of her parents.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica looked up at Adam again and said, \u201cI don\u2019t see why we shouldn\u2019t let her go, do you, Adam?\u00a0 <\/span>We both like Trey, and we know he would never let any harm come to her.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked down at Jessica and then at Emily, who sat attentively squeezing Trey\u2019s hand waiting for her father\u2019s response.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam sighed deeply.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cTrey, Jessica and I like you very much, and we know you would never allow any harm to come to our daughter, however, I don\u2019t feel comfortable allowing Emily to travel outside the state on her own.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sure your father and his fianc\u00e9e would see to her safety and care, however, I\u2019m very uncomfortable with just the three of you staying at the condo alone on New Year\u2019s Eve.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m very sorry, Trey, but the answer is no.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica looked up at Adam in shock.\u00a0 <\/span>For the first time, Emily did not bite back bitterly at her father\u2019s denial of her plans. However, tears ran down her cheeks, and her lips quivered as she had high hopes her parents would allow her to go since they entertained all the information about the trip and meeting his father and Lauren.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh Adam,\u201d Jessica said as she looked back at Emily, who was crying.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy, please say you\u2019ll reconsider?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily asked crying.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPrincess, the answer is no and it\u2019s final.\u00a0 <\/span>Trey, Emily, if you\u2019ll excuse me, it\u2019s been a long day and I\u2019m tired.\u00a0 <\/span>It was a pleasure having you spend Thanksgiving with us today, Trey.\u00a0 <\/span>Goodnight.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Without another word, Adam got up leaving Jessica sitting on the couch alone with Trey and Emily sitting on the love seat.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily was trying to hold back the sobs wanting to escape and Trey was trying to not show the deep disappointment he was feeling.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, please, please talk to Daddy and see if he\u2019ll reconsider.\u00a0 <\/span>Please, Mommy,\u201d Emily cried, no longer able to hold back her tears.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica\u2019s rage was growing inside.\u00a0 <\/span>How could Adam decide for himself what the final decision would be and then just walk out of the room as if to dismiss everyone like they were employees rather than his wife, daughter and her boyfriend, a boy he had grown to really like and respect.\u00a0 <\/span>She could not show her rage she was feeling for her husband in front of Trey.\u00a0 <\/span>She needed to show a united front, even if she vehemently disagreed with his decision.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJessica, thank you for today.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s getting late, and I should probably be heading home as well.\u00a0 <\/span>You ready to walk me to the car, Babe?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>He said to Emily as he wiped the tears from her cheeks.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica got up and stretched out her arms to give Trey a hug goodbye.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI\u2019m truly sorry my husband said no.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s not a reflection on you or your father, I hope you understand.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam likes you and trusts you with Emily.\u00a0 <\/span>He\u2019s just concerned with her being so far away from home at such a young age.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJessica, I do understand.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m disappointed, of course, but I do get it, and I\u2019ll make sure Emily does, too.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Trey smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily grabbed her coat from the hall closet, and Trey helped her put it on.\u00a0 <\/span>When the young couple walked out and closed the door behind them, Jessica headed back to their bedroom where Adam had stripped out of his clothes and was entering the shower.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica went into the bathroom and glared at Adam, not saying a word.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked back at her and with his eyebrows arched he responded to her look.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cNot a word until I get out of this shower,\u201d and he closed the door and began to bathe, not paying any attention to Jessica standing with her arms around her waist.<\/span><\/p>\n

She let out an exasperated sigh and stormed back into the bedroom.\u00a0 <\/span>She took down the comforter and grabbed the pillows from the bed and threw them across the room.\u00a0 <\/span>Her anger was at the boiling point with Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>She had put up with his moodiness for several weeks now because she knew her husband was dealing with the approaching holiday without his father, but she now was angry.\u00a0 <\/span>His actions were inexcusable, and she could no longer stand silent.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam came out of the bathroom wrapping a towel around his waist.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica was in the closet undressing to get into the shower next.\u00a0 <\/span>She was still in her pants and bra when she saw Adam head toward the chest of drawers to grab a fresh pair of boxers.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I\u2019ve put up with your moodiness now for weeks.\u00a0 <\/span>I haven\u2019t said a word to you about it because I knew you were missing Dad, but your actions tonight were horrendous if not downright rude.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you talking about, Jessica?\u201d Adam\u2019s voice was annoyed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat am I talking about?\u201d Jessica\u2019s voice began to rise.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHow dare you make a final decision on Emily going to Aspen with Trey and his family without giving me the courtesy of discussion first? The last time I looked, I was Emily\u2019s mother, and I thought I had a say in our daughter\u2019s life. Your dismissal of us was inexcusable, like we were your employees.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s brows creased as he tried to hold in his temper at Jessica\u2019s tone with him.\u00a0 <\/span>He undid his towel and threw it on the bed.\u00a0 <\/span>He bent down to slip into his boxers and then calmly walked over to Jessica in the closet.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon’t speak to me in that tone of voice, Jess.\u00a0 <\/span>I gave Emily and Trey my answer and the answer is no.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>He responded with a low controlled voice in Jessica\u2019s face and then turned to walk back to the bed where he grabbed his towel and took it back to the bathroom to hang it on the rack to dry.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe discussion about whether Emily can go to Aspen is far from over, Adam,\u201d Jessica followed him into the bathroom.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI have a say in the matter, too,\u201d she said, taking off her pants, leaving her standing in her panties and bra.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam turned back to his wife, his annoyance reaching a fevered pitch.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWhat is it with you, Jessica?\u201d Adam\u2019s voice was controlled but shaky as their argument turned into an all-out fight.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cDo you have some sort of sick infatuation with Trey and are trying to live it out through our daughter?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica\u2019s jaw dropped.\u00a0 <\/span>She was at a loss for words for a split second, her rage was overflowing.\u00a0 <\/span>She reached up and slapped Adam across the face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI won\u2019t even dignify that statement with an answer, Adam,\u201d her voice cracked as tears fell down her cheeks.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t get you!\u00a0 <\/span>There was a time when we were on the same page together with how we would raise our children, but now, I don\u2019t even know you anymore.\u00a0 <\/span>Maybe it\u2019s Trey, but you were so quick and willing to let Emily date before she was sixteen, now you\u2019re ready to let her run off to Aspen and stay with two people we\u2019ll have just met and don\u2019t know.\u00a0 <\/span>Maybe his father is a liberal thinker and says it\u2019s okay for Emily and Trey to share a bedroom and bed together.\u00a0 <\/span>Maybe that\u2019s what your fantasy wants to happen.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou know damn well, Adam Cartwright, Trey is not that type of boy.\u00a0 <\/span>He loves and respects our daughter, and he would never take advantage of her like that, and you know it.\u00a0 <\/span>Maybe it\u2019s you, Adam.\u201d Jessica\u2019s voice turned spiteful. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe what?\u201d Adam\u2019s tone was filled with disgust.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe it\u2019s you who doesn\u2019t want another man coming between you and your PRINCESS!!!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam glared at his wife.\u00a0 <\/span>His nostrils flared, and he was seething.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cYou are out of line, Jessica Cartwright,\u201d he said shaking, pointing his finger at her as he grabbed his robe and threw it on before headed toward the bedroom door.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As he reached the door and opened it, he turned back around and screamed, causing Jessica to jump, \u201cWAY OUT OF LINE!!!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>he yelled, walking out, slamming the door behind him.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica screamed, throwing her bra at the door.\u00a0 <\/span>She took off her panties and threw them\u00a0across the room and banged her hand on the wall.\u00a0 <\/span>She got in the shower and let the rain fall upon her, as she began to sob uncontrollably.\u00a0 <\/span>She fell to the floor of the shower,\u00a0sat in a fetal position and cried.\u00a0 <\/span>She and Adam had not fought or said such hateful things to each other since they were divorced. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow dare he think I would desire Trey!\u201d she screamed, throwing the bar of soap against the wall. \u201cThat\u2019s just SICK!\u201d she continued as she relived the fight in her head.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica got off the floor of the shower and finished bathing herself.\u00a0 <\/span>She got out of the shower, threw a towel over her body and her hair.\u00a0 <\/span>She went into the bedroom and finished taking down the bed and headed toward the chest of drawers and got out a nightgown.\u00a0 <\/span>She slipped on a nightgown with nothing on underneath and got into bed.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica towel dried her hair and threw the towel on the floor.\u00a0 <\/span>She was so exhausted from the early morning wake-up and busy day preparing the holiday meal, she elected to leave her clothes scattered on the floor.\u00a0 <\/span>Sleep was calling her name, but her anger and tears were preventing her from falling into a sound rest.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica\u2019s body finally succumbed to sleep with the stress of the day, uncontrollable sobbing, and tears lessened as she started to fall off into a deeper REM of sleep.<\/span><\/p>\n

Several hours had passed when Jessica abruptly woke up.\u00a0 <\/span>She turned to look at the clock, it was 3:09 A.M..\u00a0 <\/span>She looked over at Adam\u2019s side of the bed, and it had not been disturbed.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica pulled her, pillow to her and the oceans of tears began again as she realized Adam had not come to bed after she had fallen asleep.\u00a0 <\/span>She worried her hateful comment had gone too far.\u00a0 <\/span>As she began to relive the argument in her head again, she remembered the below the belt comment Adam had made to her regarding her wanting Trey.\u00a0 <\/span>Angered filled her being again at how Adam could be so cruel.\u00a0 <\/span>I can\u2019t believe he would ever think I wanted a young boy she cried to herself.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI don\u2019t even know my husband anymore!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>She was infuriated.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/p>\n

The next time Jessica opened her eyes, there was light coming in through the blinds on the french doors which lead to their private patio off their bedroom.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica blinked her eyes, trying to clear the fog from her tear soaked swollen lids.\u00a0 <\/span>She looked at the clock, it was 8:21 A.M..\u00a0 <\/span>She turned over, and Adam\u2019s side of the bed was still in the same state it had been at 3:00 A.M. in the morning when she woke up the first time.\u00a0 <\/span>Tears fell from her red swollen blue eyes, but the storm began to brew again as she realized Adam had never come to bed.\u00a0 <\/span>They had not slept apart from each other except when Adam would be away on a business trip since they had started seeing each other again shortly before they were remarried.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam had promised her they would never go to bed angry at each other and her being filled with disgust but mostly hurt.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica got out of bed and picked up all of her clothes she had let fall where they were.\u00a0 <\/span>She laughed and then began to cry as she said to herself, \u201cThis looks like any other time when Adam would undress me and make love to me…Now he won\u2019t even share our bed with me,\u201d her voice trembled as she wiped away the free flowing tears again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBastard!\u201d she said through her tears as she threw her clothes into the laundry basket, took off her gown,\u00a0 <\/span>and headed toward the bathroom to splash water on her face.<\/span><\/p>\n

She came back out, put on a fresh pair of panties, and found a pair of pink velvet lounging pants hanging in her closet so she put those on with a pink Ralph Lauren Polo shirt and headed into the house which was still quiet.\u00a0 <\/span>She filled the tea kettle with water and turned it on to boil.\u00a0 <\/span>While she waited for the water, she put her tea bag in a mug she had gotten down from the cupboard. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam had slept in Jason\u2019s room all night.\u00a0 <\/span>He, too, did not get much sleep as he thought about the worst fight he and Jessica had had since their divorce when they routinely hurt each other with their words during heated arguments.\u00a0 <\/span>He was angry when he walked out the marital bedroom he shared with his wife, but now, he was filled with sorrow how they could have let themselves deteriorate into such words of contempt.\u00a0 <\/span>He walked back to their bedroom and quietly opened the door and looked in.\u00a0 <\/span>He didn\u2019t want to wake Jessica if she was still sleeping but when he opened the door, he found the bed was neatly made, and Jessica was not in the room or bathroom.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam came in and put on a pair of jeans and went looking for his wife to try and have a civil conversation with her.\u00a0 <\/span>He heard the tea kettle whistle so he knew she was in the kitchen.\u00a0 <\/span>He stopped at the entry and watched Jessica as she unloaded the dishes from the previous day. He saw her wipe tears from her eyes as she stacked the dishes on the counter to be put away.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As she retrieved the last dish and closed the door, she grabbed the plates and walked to where she kept the dishes and placed them on the shelf.\u00a0 <\/span>She turned back to grab the pots and pans, and she saw Adam standing there watching her, leaning on the wall with his arms crossed over his chest and his leg crossed over the other.\u00a0 <\/span>She glared at him and continued to put the clean items away, not saying anything to him.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam walked into the kitchen and came up behind her and touched her arm, softly saying, \u201cJess.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica shrugged him away without a response and continued to put her kitchen back into an orderly fashion, stopping on occasion to drink her tea.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam leaned up against the island, patiently waiting for her to finish putting away the last dish.\u00a0 <\/span>Once she had done so, she walked passed him, unable to look at him in the face as she was heading toward the formal dining room to finish putting up the china from the holiday dinner.<\/span><\/p>\n

As she walked past Adam, he stretched out his arm and grabbed Jessica by the arm, stopping her in her tracks.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet go of me, Adam,\u201d she said with anger and hurt in her voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not going to let you go, we\u2019re going to talk about last night.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI have nothing to say to you,\u201d as she tried to wiggle out of his hold, but he only held on tighter.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re hurting my arm, let go!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Her voice got louder.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam grabbed hold of her arm with his other hand and then moved in front of her.\u00a0 <\/span>He put his finger under her chin and lifted her head so she would look up at him.\u00a0 <\/span>He calmly said, \u201cI\u2019m not letting go until I know you won\u2019t walk away.\u00a0 <\/span>We need to talk.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou said a mouthful last night, don\u2019t you think?\u201d she said shaking herself free and walking past him again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJESSICA!\u201d Adam yelled, his voice growing angry again.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian had just begun to round the corner toward the kitchen when she heard Adam\u2019s angry voice.\u00a0 <\/span>He scared her, and she ran back to Emily\u2019s room and without knocking, she ran in and dove in her bed, waking her older sister from her sleep.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy and Daddy are fighting! I\u2019m scared!\u201d she said with tears running down her cheeks.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily was still in a sleepy fog when she asked, \u201cWhat? What are you talking about, Peanut?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy is yelling at Mommy! They\u2019re going to get a divorce!\u201d Jillian cried, not knowing what she was saying.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo!\u201d Emily cried, and started to shake.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

She didn\u2019t realize Jillian didn\u2019t know sometimes married couples had heated arguments, but it didn\u2019t always mean they were divorcing.\u00a0 <\/span>She had never known a life where her parents were living separate lives. \u00a0 <\/span>She was only going off the knowledge of the kids she went to school with who\u2019s parents were divorced and they had said their parents yelled and were angry with each other so she had come to the conclusion her parents were divorcing because they were yelling at each other.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy\u2019s so angry with Mommy.\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy told him to leave her alone!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/p>\n

\u201cWill you keep your voice down, Adam? The girls are still sleeping!\u201d Jessica spun around straight into Adam\u2019s bare chest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t give a damn if I wake up the entire neighborhood, we need to talk about last night.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t think there is anything left to say, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>You said quite enough last night don\u2019t you think?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica turned back around and opened the doors below the top of the buffet and pulled the china holders from the cabinet which kept the china safe and dust free when she was not using it.\u00a0 <\/span>She pulled out her Lenox Holiday china from the buffet to replace her everyday china for the holidays.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat? That I denied our sixteen-year-old daughter from going to Aspen with her boyfriend? Is that what you\u2019re talking about?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Adam, try the one where you hit way below the belt, or do I need to remind you? You know, Adam, the one where you said I desired a sexual relationship with my daughter\u2019s boyfriend!\u00a0 <\/span>I see you haven\u2019t lost your touch with hurtful words.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily and Jillian had come from Emily\u2019s room and were standing at the end of the hall listening to their parents argue.\u00a0 <\/span>The hair on Emily\u2019s arms was standing on end as she was transformed back to when she was four and heard her parents arguing, saying nasty things to each other.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Mommy, please tell me you don\u2019t!\u201d Emily cried softly to herself.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan you condone how you insinuated I have an incestuous attraction toward our daughter? Even for you, Jess….It\u2019s just sick!\u00a0 <\/span>How could you even think….I can\u2019t believe you would even speak such garbage…\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam spun around, pinching his nose at the disgusting thought.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily ran back to her room.\u00a0 <\/span>She threw herself on her bed sobbing.\u00a0 <\/span>She felt this was all her fault.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cPlease, Mommy and Daddy, please don\u2019t get a divorce again.\u00a0 <\/span>Stop hurting each other!\u201d she cried into her pillow.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian cried with her sister.\u00a0 <\/span>She had heard her parents have disagreements before but the anger she heard in their voices, this time, was a level she had never heard before, and it scared her.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica\u2019s voice began to shake, \u201cAdam, we promised each other NEVER to go to bed angry at each other.\u00a0 <\/span>You not only walked out of our bedroom last night, but you also slept elsewhere!\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019ve never done that since we remarried.\u00a0 <\/span>Do you know how badly you hurt me when I woke up at 3:00 A.M. and you were not there?\u00a0 <\/span>I was devastated.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam turned back around, he closed his eyes as he began to speak.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cTo think you would even think I would have inappropriate thoughts about our daughter, I was just so disgusted I had to get out of there before I said anything more I would regret.\u00a0 <\/span>I came this morning to apologize to you.\u00a0 <\/span>I knew I had hurt you, and I\u2019m sorry.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>He said grabbing her hand and pulling her toward him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam,\u201d Jessica\u2019s red, puffy, eyes overflowed with tears, her voice shaky. \u201cit was my anger talking.\u00a0 <\/span>You had hurt me so badly to think I could ever look lustfully at another man, a boy, our daughter\u2019s boyfriend! I wanted to throw up.\u00a0 <\/span>I know I was wrong…I was so angry!\u00a0 <\/span>If I had ever actually felt you were having inappropriate thoughts about our daughter, I would leave you in a New York second and take our daughters as far away from you to where you would never see them again.\u00a0 <\/span>I would never subject them to that type of betrayal or pain.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica\u2019s head fell forward, she was growing weak in the knees.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam pulled her to his chest and held her tight.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I\u2019m so ashamed of those horrific words I said to you last night.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m so hurt.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sorry for what I said, but I\u2019m just so hurt!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam allowed Jessica to cry, the curls on his chest catching her tears.\u00a0 <\/span>He rubbed her back, holding her in the safety of his love.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYesterday, despite Dad being gone, my baby boy being gone, we had a beautiful day and look how it ended!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was all my fault, Jess, I\u2019m so sorry.\u201d Adam\u2019s voice was soft and loving.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica pulled herself back and looked up at Adam, her eyes almost swollen shut.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI\u2019m just as much to blame, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Don\u2019t try to be the martyr in all of this mess we\u2019ve created.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHad I considered your thoughts in the decision where Emily is concerned, this would have all been avoided.\u00a0 <\/span>I shouldn\u2019t have made such a snap decision.\u00a0 <\/span>I should have never slept in a different bed either.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam placed his hands on Jessica\u2019s cheeks, trying to dry away the tears which stained her face.\u00a0 <\/span>He bent down and lightly brushed her lips with his.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you.\u00a0 <\/span>Don\u2019t ever forget it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam pulled Jessica back to his chest.\u00a0 <\/span>She felt his heart beating strongly.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, too, Adam…I never had stopped loving you, even when we were divorced.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShhh, don\u2019t say that ugly word ever again.\u00a0 <\/span>I hate it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica looked up and smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cNever again,\u201d she whispered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, Daddy, please don\u2019t fight.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re scarring Jillian and me,\u201d was the childlike voice which broke up the tender moment between two lovers making up.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam spun around, both he and Jessica wore startled looks on their faces.\u00a0 <\/span>They each looked at one another and then back at their frightened children – Emily holding her baby sister who was visibly shaken to her core.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam opened his arms and invited his daughters into the safety of his love.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica joined him, surrounding their anxious forms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy and I are okay now.\u00a0 <\/span>We hashed it out and have forgiven each other.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019re sorry we scared you so,\u201d Adam said rubbing both his girl\u2019s backs.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t divorce!\u201d Jillian\u2019s voice was panicked. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica bent down and placed her hands on her youngest child\u2019s cheeks.\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy and Daddy aren\u2019t getting a divorce, Baby Girl.\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy and Daddy love each other very much, and we love you, too.\u00a0 <\/span>We were angry at each other, but we\u2019re okay now.\u00a0 <\/span>Daddy nor Mommy are going anywhere.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou promise?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>She asked in a very innocent tone.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI promise.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian threw her arms around Jessica\u2019s neck, and Jessica stood straight up, lifting her daughter off the floor.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBaby Girl, you\u2019re getting heavy! Mommy won\u2019t be able to lift you or carry you much longer,\u201d she laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe might be too heavy for you, but Daddy can handle her!\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam grabbed his daughter from Jessica and held her in his arms like a baby.\u00a0 <\/span>He hugged her tightly and kissed her forehead.\u00a0 <\/span>He looked into her eyes and smiled.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, Sweetpea.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m so sorry we scared you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian smiled back at Adam and pinched his cheeks.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cDon\u2019t scare Jillian again, Daddy!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Ma\u2019am!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>He said laughing.<\/span><\/p>\n

He placed his Sweetpea back on her feet, and she ran back to her room to get dressed.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat time should I tell Trey to be over to help you with the lights, Daddy?\u201d she asked curling her arms around her hero\u2019s waist and placing her head on his chest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe in a few hours.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m going to make you girls breakfast right now.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Okay, but can Mommy make breakfast? She\u2019s a better cook than you.\u201d Emily winked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica hid her smile and laughter with her hand over her mouth.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow about Mommy and I do it together then…Mommy?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica took her hand away from her mouth, exposing her laughter.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure, it\u2019s fine with me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily left back to her room to change into her clothes and to call Trey to let him know when to be over and help Adam hang the lights on the roof for the upcoming Christmas holidays.<\/span><\/p>\n

Chapter Seventeen<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

The weeks following Thanksgiving flew by quickly.\u00a0 <\/span>Christmas was quickly\u00a0approaching, so Jessica spent many afternoons at the mall and specialty shops finishing up last minute shopping for Adam and the children.\u00a0 <\/span>With the last present bought, Jessica decided to stop at her favorite boutique in Carson City to purchase a new gown for her\u2019s and Adam\u2019s wedding anniversary they would be spending in Reno. \u00a0 <\/span>She only had a few hours until everyone would be home from work and school and they would then head to the airport to welcome home Jason and Brianna.\u00a0 <\/span>She knew she might have to make another appointment for dress shopping and fitting, but she thought she would at least stop in and see what they had of interest to her. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHello, Mrs. Cartwright, it\u2019s so good to see you again,\u201d stylist, Kevin, said as he welcomed Jessica to his exclusive boutique in Carson City with a kiss on each cheek and a glass of champagne.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Kevin, it\u2019s so great to see you again also.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s that time of year again, and I need to try and outdo my dress from last year,\u201d Jessica smiled, looking at the mannequins which were tastefully situated in the small boutique store. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy son and his fianc\u00e9 are flying in from Boston today so I don\u2019t have a whole lot of time to shop, but if I find the perfect dress, I\u2019ll purchase it and come back for my fitting.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow fabulous your handsome son is coming home for the holidays, Mrs. Cartwright.\u00a0 <\/span>I know you and your gorgeous husband are over the moon,\u201d Kevin said as he guided Jessica to sit down in his customer\u2019s chair so they could chat about the kind of dress she was looking for this year.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe are Kevin.\u00a0 <\/span>Since Adam\u2019s father died, having his son so far away has been tough at times on both of us.\u00a0 <\/span>We celebrated Thanksgiving for the first time without either his father or our son, but we made it through.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica smiled, taking a sip of her sparkling spirits. <\/span><\/p>\n

Knowing he didn\u2019t have as much time as he would like, Kevin cut straight to the point to see if Jessica had any ideas on what she would like to wear for this year\u2019s anniversary celebration.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI would really like a show stopper gown this year, Kevin.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam and I have been through a lot, and I want to make his eyes pop when he sees me,\u201d Jessica smiled broadly, winking at Kevin.<\/span><\/p>\n

With an evil laugh, Kevin knew exactly what his best customer would want for her special night.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cDo we go soft and demure or sparkle and shine?\u201d Kevin asked, trying to narrow down the dresses he had in mind.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica looked at her friend and stylist with a sex kitten look in her eye and smiled, \u201cWhat do you think I should wear?\u201d she asked standing up and turning to show her off her body.<\/span><\/p>\n

Kevin growled, stood as well.\u00a0 <\/span>He walked toward the back of his boutique saying, \u201cI\u2019ve got some show stoppers in mind, Mrs. Cartwright, I\u2019ll be right back!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

While Jessica waited for Kevin to return with his creations, she pulled out her phone and saw a text message was from Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>She had sent a text to him earlier, and they now had the following conversation:<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam:\u00a0 <\/span>Hey Babe, I\u2019m waiting for Jill to get out of school.\u00a0 <\/span>Wanted to tell you I love you…Oh, your anniversary present was delivered to work today, too. \ud83d\ude09<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Jessica:\u00a0 <\/span>It did, huh? While I haven\u2019t purchased your anniversary present as of yet, I have in mind what I want to get you.\u00a0 <\/span>Guess who I\u2019m with right now?<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Adam:\u00a0 <\/span>Who?<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Jessica:\u00a0 <\/span>My other boyfriend, Kevin. \ud83d\ude42<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Adam:\u00a0 <\/span>Should I be jealous?\u00a0<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Jessica:\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t know, should you?\u00a0<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Adam:\u00a0 <\/span>Depending on what Kevin styles you in.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Jessica:\u00a0 <\/span>I guess you\u2019ll find out on New Year\u2019s Eve. \ud83d\ude09<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Adam:\u00a0 <\/span>Can\u2019t wait.\u00a0 <\/span>I have something very special planned for us this year.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Jessica:\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll be sure to let Kevin know.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Adam:\u00a0 <\/span>He already does.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Jessica:\u00a0 <\/span>Adam!<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Adam:\u00a0 <\/span>What?<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Jessica:\u00a0 <\/span>He knows what your plans are?<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Adam:\u00a0 <\/span>Well, not all of them, but he knows what I have planned and what I like my lady to wear.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Jessica:\u00a0 <\/span>Oh, I like being your lady.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Adam:\u00a0 <\/span>Not as much as I love you being my lady.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Jessica:\u00a0 <\/span>Love you, see you soon.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Adam:\u00a0 <\/span>Love you, too, Babe, find something sexy.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Jessica:\u00a0 <\/span>Don\u2019t I always?<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Adam:\u00a0 <\/span>You never disappoint.\u00a0 <\/span>See you in a bit. xoxo<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

As Kevin rounded the corner with several of the handcrafted designer gowns in his hands, Jessica placed her phone back in her purse and turned her undivided attention back to her stylist, Kevin.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I already see a few contenders in your hands, Kevin.\u00a0 <\/span>You do know what I like,\u201d she rubbed her hands together in anticipating a closer look at each of the gowns.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know what you like, but better yet, I know what Adam likes you in,\u201d Kevin winked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy do you think he lets me shop with you?\u201d Jessica laughed as Kevin hung the gowns on the garment rack so he could hold each one out separately as he described the fabric, make, and colors available for each.<\/span><\/p>\n

After showing her the first three gowns, there were things she liked about each, but none of them caused her to have the wow factor to the point where she knew it was the gown.\u00a0 <\/span>When Kevin reached the sixth of seven gowns, Jessica could feel her heart skip a beat and her breath taken back.\u00a0 <\/span>She knew this particular gown had everything she had thought about and more.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis Badgley Mischka sequin bombshell has a 100% silk shell is adorned with green sequin lace and a black lining.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s sleeveless with an illusion crew neckline.\u00a0 <\/span>The skirt is fitted with a mermaid hem, upper back keyhole with hook-and-eye closure, hidden back zipper and is completely lined.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis is it, Kevin, this is the dress.\u00a0 <\/span>Can I get it fitted in time?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDarling, you know I\u2019ll do anything for my favorite customer.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s, why I love you so much.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s a good thing you\u2019re gay, Adam might have a problem with your\u2019s and my relationship!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica laughed as she came to give Kevin his champagne glass back and a kiss on the cheek.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI have to run now, Adam and the girls will be home soon.\u00a0 <\/span>Will you be open on Christmas Eve?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI won\u2019t be open to the public, but text me and tell me what time to be here and I\u2019ll meet you for a fitting.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re the best, my dear.\u00a0 <\/span>Thank you!\u201d Jessica said as she was hurrying out the door to get home before Adam and Jillian arrived.<\/span><\/p>\n

Just as she was pulling up in the driveway, she saw Adam\u2019s Porsche already in the garage.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam and Jillian were still sitting in the two-seater.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian was showing Adam a book she had been given to read over the 2-week holiday break.\u00a0 <\/span>They both looked up when they heard Jessica\u2019s SUV drive up next to his sports car.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Babe, Jillian,\u201d Jessica said as she got out of the car and closed the door.\u00a0 <\/span>We have to hurry and get ready.\u00a0 <\/span>With the holiday just around the corner, traffic could be heavy with people headed to the airport to fly out or pick up passengers.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd we wouldn\u2019t want to be late to pick up dear sweet Jason now would we?\u201d Jillian asked with a sassy tone.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica glowered at her youngest daughter and then looked at Adam for discipline.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam put his two middle fingers under Jillian\u2019s chin and turned her face to his.\u00a0 <\/span>Her eyes grew wide as she knew she was in trouble.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Daddy, it\u2019s just Jason always gets the most attention when he\u2019s home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam sat staring at his youngest child with one eyebrow arched, not saying a word for a moment.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian was worried she might be in deep trouble.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica could feel her blood pressure rise as she held back her anger.\u00a0 <\/span>She hoped Adam would handle the smart remark from her youngest child swiftly, but it seemed he was going to dismiss her actions, and she stormed off into the house.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam cut his eyes as he watched Jessica slam the garage door behind her into the kitchen.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam turned his eyes back to his daughter who was still looking intently at him without blinking.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou know your mother and I love each of you kids equally.\u00a0 <\/span>We cannot imagine our lives without you and for you to say your mother loves Jason more than you or Emily is very hurtful.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Daddy, I\u2019m sorry, I didn\u2019t mean it,\u201d Jillian replied in a sorrowful tone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThen why did you say it?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian cried.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou, young lady, owe your mother an apology right now,\u201d Adam\u2019s voice was stern.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI never want to hear you talk like that again, understood?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d said Jillian in a meek voice, “I’m sorry.”<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t owe me an apology, young lady, you owe your mother one.\u00a0 <\/span>Now get inside, find her, hug her, and tell her you\u2019re sorry, now!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian could not open the car door fast enough.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam sat as he glared, watching her run into the house.\u00a0 <\/span>When Jillian opened the door, and he could hear her cry, \u2018MOMMY!\u2019 with the garage door slamming behind her.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam gathered her books and walked into the house calming himself.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam walked to the back of the house, stopping at Jillian\u2019s room to drop off her books on her desk.\u00a0 <\/span>He then went to his and Jessica’s bedroom, loosening his tie. \u00a0 <\/span>As he entered the bedroom, Jillian was in there with Jessica, embracing her mother, sobbing while Jessica was consoling her and wiping the tears from her eyes.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam stood at a distance with a stern look on his face.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica, holding Jillian in her arms, looked up at Adam and pulled back from Jillian handing her a tissue and telling her all was forgiven, and she loved her.\u00a0 <\/span>She patted her on the bum and told her to go wash her face and get ready for the trip to the airport.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian turned around and saw Adam standing, watching her intently.\u00a0 <\/span>She stopped for a moment then ran from the room, afraid if she stayed any longer, afraid she would be punished more severely for the display of disrespect to her mother.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once Jillian was down the hall, Adam shut the door and continued to the closet where he took off his dress shirt and tie.\u00a0 <\/span>Unzipping his trousers, he grabbed a pair of jeans and the hanger which he kept his suit.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica entered the closet, and the two chose their casual wear in silence.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once dressed, Adam went to the dresser and picked up his wallet, phone, and keys he had dropped off before getting undressed.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica moved to the bathroom and was brushing her hair when Adam walked in reading email on his phone and asked if Emily was home and ready to go.\u00a0 <\/span>Once finished, she stopped and looked at Adam in the mirror.\u00a0 <\/span>After a moment when he had not received a response to his question, Adam looked up at the mirror to see Jessica looking at him in her mirror.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam looked befuddled and then asked Jessica again if she knew if Emily was ready to head for the airport.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica stood staring in the mirror at Adam without saying a word. Adam rolled his eyes as he knew something was bothering Jessica and he knew they would not be able to leave the house until the air was cleared between the couple.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat did I do now?\u201d Asked Adam putting his phone in his pocket moving to the door jam, leaning on it then placing his hands on his hips.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica looked at him as if he had three heads but then spoke for the first time.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWhat you did?\u00a0 <\/span>More like, what did you say?\u00a0 <\/span>Our daughter came in screaming, I\u2019m sorry, Mommy, I\u2019m sorry, don\u2019t spank me, I\u2019m sorry!<\/em> What did you say to her that would make her react so frantic?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam arched his eyebrow, not believing the change in attitude he had witnessed in less than an hour.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cExcuse me,\u201d he said to his wife as he moved toward her vanity and was now leaning up against it next to his wife with his hands placed casually in front of his legs.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHave you seen my wife, Jessica?\u00a0 <\/span>You see, she came home.\u00a0 <\/span>My daughter was disrespectful to her.\u00a0 <\/span>She looked at me as if to say, Are you going to discipline this child for how she just spoke to me?<\/em>\u00a0and then stormed into the house.\u00a0 <\/span>I simply gave my daughter a stern look, advised her to apologize at once to her mother and that she was to never speak to her or to me that way again,\u201d pointing his finger back at himself.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI made her tell me she understood.\u00a0 <\/span>She then leaped out of the car running in the house to find you and apologize.\u00a0 <\/span>Why do you ask? What did you want me to do?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam asked exasperated at the conversation he was having with Jessica.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica grabbed Adam\u2019s hands and intertwined her fingers with his and replied, \u201cThe way she ran in here, her demeanor was so urgent, I just couldn\u2019t imagine what must have transpired.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s been a long day. I\u2019ve been fighting the holiday shoppers trying to wrap up last minute stocking stuffers, and picking up last minute gifts.\u00a0 <\/span>I had to go choose a gown for our anniversary quickly.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m excited to see my son and his fianc\u00e9, I\u2019m just exhausted, and I overreacted, I\u2019m sorry.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam nodded his head in agreement with Jessica about her overreaction.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cJudging by how you reacted, I disciplined our daughter accordingly, however, it seems it might have been something I should have only told her to go find you and apologize at once.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Babe, forgive me?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said removing their held hands and placing her arms around his waist and looking up at him with her big baby blue eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNothing to forgive,\u201d he said softly, gently kissing her lips.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHowever, if we don\u2019t get a move on, our son and future daughter-in-law will think we left them at the airport.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica jumped and then picked up her watch off the counter and looked at it.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWe\u2019ve got to get going!\u201d she said frantically.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam remained calm and took Jessica\u2019s face in his hands.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI just said that, are Emily and Trey here?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily is with Trey.\u00a0 <\/span>We don\u2019t have the big Lexus anymore, remember?\u00a0 <\/span>They\u2019re going to take Trey\u2019s car and meet us there.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam nodded his head as he remembered the arrangement they had made when the travel plans were finalized after Jessica had bought the tickets.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, Daddy!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian yelled in the hallway.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWe\u2019ve got to go!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWill my children ever learn to not yell in the house?\u201d \u00a0 <\/span>Jessica laughed as the two walked out of the bathroom holding hands.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam grabbed his leather jacket he laid on the bed, and they headed out of their bedroom, leaving the door open.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian tensed a little when she saw her father, but he held out his arms for her to come to him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSweetpea, you know Daddy loves you, and I don\u2019t like getting angry with you any more than you like being on the receiving end of that anger.\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy told me all is forgiven with her, and I want you to know I forgive you, too.\u00a0 <\/span>I love you and even when I get angry with you, my love never waivers.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian poked out her bottom lip and a rogue tear fell from her eye.\u00a0 <\/span>She lifted her hands to Adam for a hug, and she grabbed his neck and held on tight.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, too, Daddy, and I\u2019m sorry.\u00a0 <\/span>I love Jason and Brie, too.\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy told me she was excited to see him because she hadn\u2019t seen him in forever and she missed him.\u00a0 <\/span>She said she misses me when I\u2019m gone, too!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe does, Sweetpea, I can vouch for her, she misses all three of you when you\u2019re not home or with her.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian\u2019s demeanor relaxed, and she took her daddy\u2019s hand and pulled him toward the garage so they could head to the airport to pick up her brother and future sister-in-law.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

Once at the airport, Trey saw the three Cartwrights enter into the baggage claim area.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cThere they are,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Trey told Emily as he pointed toward the car rental desk.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason and Brianna or my parents and Jillian?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily asked as she stretched to look over the many travelers walking between her and the sliding doors.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOver there, your mom has a North Face jacket on, your dad has a leather jacket and your sister is wearing a blue Cape Cod sweatshirt and red turtle neck underneath.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily and Jessica saw each other at the same time.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica told Adam she saw Emily and Trey and pointed in their general direction.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily grabbed Trey\u2019s hand and pulled him toward the other members of her family.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, Daddy! We were wondering if you were stuck on the highway.\u00a0 <\/span>I tried calling both of your phones, but it just kept going to voicemail.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica looked surprised and remembered she had left her phone at home on the charger in the office.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam pulled out his phone and saw the missed calls from his middle child and then realized he had put his phone on silent while he was at a director\u2019s meeting earlier in the day at the office.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cThe meeting was the last thing I had to do today before the holiday break, and I guess I forgot to turn it back on the ringer.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sorry, Princess, I hope you weren\u2019t too worried.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNow you know how it feels, Daddy, when I can\u2019t find you,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily alluded to the time she had gone to the movies and then miniature golf with her brother when she was younger and decided to ride home with one of Jason\u2019s friends after miniature golf.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily and Kimberly struck up an instant friendship and against Jason\u2019s wishes, Emily refused to go back with him and went with Kimberly.\u00a0 <\/span>Kimberly needed to drop off a book at the library and then stop by her house.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily said she was okay with the delay, and it was over an hour before she returned home.\u00a0 <\/span>Unbeknownst to Emily her phone had gone dead and her family was frantic when they could not get a hold of her or Kimberly because Kimberly\u2019s phone had been left on silent and in her purse after the movie so neither girl knew Adam, Jessica, and Jason were trying to reach her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAll is good now that you, Mommy, and Jillian are here,\u201d she grinned, looking up at her hero.<\/span><\/p>\n

The four Cartwrights and Trey all headed toward the terminal exit out to baggage claim and anxiously awaited the arrival of Jason and Emily.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once Jason and Brianna arrived through the secured area and hugs and kisses were shared with each other, they headed toward the baggage claim carousel to collect their bags.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason and Brianna commented on the flight and how full it was as well as the hassle of flying during the holidays but were happy to have made it back to Nevada without delays or cancellation.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once the last piece of luggage was collected, Adam said he would carry the bags in Jessica\u2019s car, and they could ride back to Carson City with Emily and Trey.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian was feeling left out, and tears welled in her eyes since she would have to ride back with her parents since there was only room for two other people in Trey\u2019s Mustang.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason took Jillian in his arms and told her he wanted her to travel with Adam and Jessica because they would miss her if they only had the luggage with them.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason assured Jillian he and Brianna were planning to stay with her on New Year\u2019s Eve so their parents could spend their anniversary in Reno together.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily would also be there, however, this year, Trey would be gone to Aspen for his father\u2019s wedding to his new fianc\u00e9.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian\u2019s tears subsided, and the family headed toward the airport’s short-term parking.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason went with his father, mother, and Jillian to help with the luggage.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam told Trey where they were parked and they parted ways so Jason and Adam would load up the car with the luggage and Trey would pick him up on their way out.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once home, everyone settled in the formal living room while Emily and Jessica made a pot of coffee, tea, and cocoa for everyone. <\/span><\/p>\n

While in the kitchen, Emily took the mother\/daughter time to again plead her case to be allowed to go with Trey to Aspen for the wedding.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, will you and Daddy please reconsider letting me go with Trey to Aspen? He doesn\u2019t show it, but he is very disappointed I can\u2019t go with him.\u00a0 <\/span>We would have so much fun, and his father would never allow anything to happen to his son, stepdaughter or me.\u00a0 <\/span>Why doesn\u2019t Daddy trust Trey and me?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not a matter of trust, Honey,\u201d Jessica replied pulling the tea bags from the cupboard, \u201cit\u2019s a matter of your safety…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI understand that,\u201d Emily interrupted rolling her eyes and then sighed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica stopped, turned toward her daughter and looked at her sternly because she interrupted her, not letting her finish. \u201cIf you let me finish, I\u2019ll explain Daddy\u2019s reasoning.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily stood with her right hip-slung to one side and her hands wrapped around her waist as she waited for Jessica to finish her sentence.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy is very protective of you since you were almost kidnapped.\u00a0 <\/span>It doesn\u2019t matter if you are twelve or if you are thirty, Daddy will always be your Daddy, and he will give up his life to protect you.\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019ll understand when you are older why he makes the decisions he does, Emily,\u201d and she turned around to close the cupboard door and head toward stove to check on the water which was beginning to boil.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou just won\u2019t stand up to Daddy is more the answer,\u201d Emily mumbled. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica whipped around and leaned against the island.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWhat did you say, young lady?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily raised her hands in exasperation. \u00a0 <\/span>\u201cYou don\u2019t stand up to Daddy, Mommy!\u00a0 <\/span>You were so excited about me going, that is until Daddy said no, then you flip-flopped yourself and agreed with him.\u00a0 <\/span>Can\u2019t you speak up for me? Get him to change his mind?\u00a0 <\/span>Have some backbone, Mommy!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Back in the formal living room, Trey and Jason were talking about college life and what Trey could expect his first year away at Stanford. Adam was talking with Brianna about the Shakespeare class she and Jason had taken together in the previous semester.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam could hear raised voices coming from the kitchen so he politely excused himself to go help Jessica and Emily as well as to see why the two girls were raising their voices at each other.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Adam entered the kitchen, he could see Jessica\u2019s form very tense as she was lecturing her daughter on respect for her parents and the decisions they made for their children.<\/span><\/p>\n

Keeping a moderate demeanor, trying to defuse the dynamite waiting to ignite between his wife and middle child, Adam walked in and came to separate the two ladies. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s going on here?\u201d Adam said as wrapped his arm around his wife\u2019s waist kissing her on the side of her head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou and Mommy are the problem, Daddy, when will you let me grow up and gain some independence?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen you can afford to live independently, and care for yourself, but I will never stop loving you or care about your well being.\u00a0 <\/span>Why are you going down this road again, Princess?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWill you quit calling me Princess, Daddy?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Her voice was raised again.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cMy name is Emily, I\u2019m sixteen years old! I want you to start treating me like a grown up!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Trying to continue his calm demeanor, Adam\u2019s nostrils flared as he took his daughter by the shoulder and said, \u201cGet to the garage now, before I lose my temper with you in here and embarrass both of us.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily shook off her father\u2019s grip on her shoulder and headed to the garage.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam followed behind her and shut the door.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica went back to the now whistling teapot, poured the boiling water into the teapot and took the service with the teapot, thermal coffee pot and a host of tea bags, hot chocolate and other munchies in for the family to enjoy.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason noticed Adam and Emily did not accompany his mother and asked where they were as he got up to take the tray from his mother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily\u2019s being Emily.\u00a0 <\/span>You know how your sister can be.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said, trying to keep her middle child\u2019s behavior in the other room. \u201cThey should be along in a few minutes.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Trey slightly shook his head but didn\u2019t make any comments.\u00a0 <\/span>He knew how headstrong his girlfriend could be, and the fact her father was not allowing her on the Aspen trip was a constant subject she would complain about when they were together, and it was mentioned.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Adam shut the door to the garage, Emily started to lash out at her father about letting her be more independent.<\/span><\/p>\n

With a controlled voice, Adam said, \u201cStop while you\u2019re ahead, young lady,” he said as he walked toward her with his eyes narrowed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t you ever disrespect your mother or me again, is that clear?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don’t you let me go to Aspen?\u201d she said trying to hold back the tears welling in her eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily leaned on her mother\u2019s car and began to cry.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cYou never allow me to grow up, Daddy! If it were Jason, and Brianna\u2019s parents were getting married in Aspen, you would let him go with her without any hesitation. I just don\u2019t know why you won\u2019t allow me to go.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not a matter of us allowing Jason to go over you, it\u2019s not about us trusting him over you.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s because we love you, we care about your safety.\u00a0 <\/span>We don\u2019t want to put you in any position which might bring harm to you or get you into a situation you don\u2019t know how to get out of.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t love me, you want to control me,\u201d Emily continued to lean on her mother\u2019s car, trying to wipe her eyes with her hands to keep her make-up from being ruined.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s voice softened to try to defuse the anger between him and his daughter.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not a matter of control, Princess.\u00a0 <\/span>When you\u2019re a parent, you\u2019ll understand why your mother and I make the decisions we do for the three of you.\u00a0 <\/span>Control does not enter into the mix ever.\u00a0 <\/span>We love each of you more than life itself, and we will always do everything we can to make sure you are safe and happy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI just want to spend new year\u2019s eve with Trey and his new step-sister. Instead, I have to spend it here babysitting my sister.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBrianna and Jason will be here with you two.\u00a0 <\/span>They will not be going out this year.\u00a0 <\/span>Maybe you all would prefer to stay at the Ponderosa for the holiday.\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy and I can come there on our way back from Reno,\u201d he suggested as he turned his child around, took a handkerchief from his pocket and dabbed Emily\u2019s tear soaked eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt just won\u2019t be the same without Trey there,\u201d Emily replied between each gasp of breath she took trying to stop her crying.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEmily Elizabeth,\u201d Adam tried again to reason with her, \u201cyou\u2019re only sixteen years old.\u00a0 <\/span>You still have your whole life ahead of you.\u00a0 <\/span>There will be many more New Year\u2019s Eves for you to spend with Trey or whomever you fall in love with when you\u2019re older.\u00a0 <\/span>Don\u2019t rush being an adult, there’ll be plenty of time for that I promise,\u201d Adam said as he took her into his arms and held his daughter tight.<\/span><\/p>\n

Father and daughter stood silent for a moment, only the gasps of air and sniffles from Emily could be heard.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam broke their embrace slightly enough to put his fingers in the handkerchief under Emily\u2019s chin to bring her face up to his.\u00a0 <\/span>He took the handkerchief and again dabbed her eyes, trying not to smear the light make-up she was wearing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNow go to your room and freshen your face and join us all back in the living room,\u201d Adam said in a soft voice.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cThis will not be the end of the world, I promise.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily broke the embrace she shared with her father and headed into the house, shutting the door behind her easily.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam stood and stared at the door for a few moments and then headed back to the house and back to his family.\u00a0 <\/span>He apologized for the disruption and said Emily would join them shortly.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

Christmas day had been a joyful day for the Nevada and Massachusetts Cartwrights.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason and Brianna were happy to be together with their aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews again since the last time they had all been together was at the death of their beloved patriarch, Ben.\u00a0 <\/span>Although there was a cloud of sadness hanging over the day, they were able to smile, enjoy themselves as they watched the kids playing with their new toys Santa had brought to them and wearing the new clothes they found waiting for them under the tree Christmas morning.\u00a0 <\/span>A large holiday feast was shared by everyone.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica and Adam had extended an invitation to Trey, his father, and fianc\u00e9 to come and enjoy Christmas afternoon and evening with them.\u00a0 <\/span>Trey\u2019s mother and stepfather had again decided to spend the holiday in Utah with her family since Trey would be enjoying Christmas and the new year with his father.\u00a0 <\/span>The three gladly accepted the invitation to come and spend the holiday at the Cartwright house as this would give Trey the opportunity for him to introduce his girlfriend\u2019s parents to his other parents so they could get to know them better.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Christmas came to an end and everyone said their goodbyes outside, the twinkle of the lights on the house lit up the lawn with a festive hue of green, red, pink, yellow and blue.\u00a0 <\/span>Trey\u2019s father commented on what a great job the two men had done in outlining the roof of the house with the lights.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam gave most of the credit to Trey as he had done much of the work on top of the roof while Adam concentrated on the perimeter.\u00a0 <\/span>The December evening was cold so the goodbyes were kept short and Emily went with Trey and his family to their car while Jessica and Adam went back into the house to straighten everything up before heading to bed.\u00a0 <\/span>Laughter, cheers, and groans were heard from the family room as Jillian was battling her brother and future sister-in-law in a wild game of Sorry!<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

While Jessica was in the formal dining room putting away her Christmas china, she heard Emily come in and lock the front door.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going to join the others in the family room, call me if you need me, Mommy,\u201d she said as she passed by.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica looked up and smiled saying, \u201cI will, Sweetheart, have fun.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As Jessica finished, she went back to the kitchen where Adam was putting the last of the dirty dishes in the dishwasher and turning it on to wash overnight.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica melted into Adam\u2019s arms and held her husband tight.\u00a0 <\/span>She was so proud of both of them as they had made it through their first two major holidays without their beloved father.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a new normal now isn\u2019t it?\u201d She said with her face buried in her husband\u2019s firm chest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt is, Babe,\u201d he replied holding her tight in return.\u00a0 <\/span>He stood silent for a moment, reflecting on the day.\u00a0 <\/span>He then broke his embrace slightly, staring into the eyes of his loved one. \u201cYou know, with our children growing up, each year we will probably experience a new normal.\u00a0 <\/span>Soon we\u2019ll have a new generation of Cartwrights crawling and running around here for the holidays.\u00a0 <\/span>When one life ends, a new one begins; A new circle of life starts over.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica leaned up and kissed her husband.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI love you so much, Adam Cartwright.\u00a0 <\/span>I thank God every day for you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled and gave Jessica a light peck on the nose and replied, \u201cMe, too, Babe, now let\u2019s go to bed,\u201d he winked at her, giving her a slight pat on her bum.<\/span><\/p>\n

As they walked arm and arm toward the back of the house, shutting out the lights as they went from one room to the next, Jessica purred, \u201cWhat do you have in mind tonight, my dear husband?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam held her tight and replied, \u201cYou\u2019ll soon find out,\u201d and the two giggled as they made their way to the family room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re headed to bed.\u00a0 <\/span>Don\u2019t stay up too late tonight.\u00a0 <\/span>Goodnight, we love you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNight,\u201d the four kids said in unison and then returned to their game that was now split into two teams.<\/span><\/p>\n

After their showers, Adam and Jessica got into bed and held each other in their arms.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica gently rubbed her fingers through the salt and pepper forest of curly locks on Adam\u2019s chest. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI look forward to the safety of your arms each night, Mr. Cartwright,\u201d Jessica said as she laid still, feeling the love around her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI could stay like this forever,\u201d Adam replied rubbing Jessica\u2019s back.<\/span><\/p>\n

The day had been long and exhausting.\u00a0 <\/span>With several nights ending with a night of lovemaking, the emotional toll of the day and season had drained them both, and they decided to drift asleep in each other\u2019s arms instead.\u00a0 <\/span>After the lights had been turned out, it didn\u2019t take long before the sleep they each desperately needed took over.<\/span><\/p>\n

It wasn\u2019t much later before the next generation of Cartwrights were, too, feeling the late hour creeping upon them.\u00a0 <\/span>They finished their game, and while Emily and Brianna took the leftover snacks into the kitchen and put them away, stacking the dirty dishes on the counter neatly, Jason and Jillian stayed behind to put the game up as well as straighten the room.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily and Jillian went to their respected bedrooms while Jason followed Brianna into hers.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason took his shirt off while Brianna changed into a nightgown.\u00a0 <\/span>He laid down with her in her bed, and they held each other in their arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI wonder if this is how my parents end each night in bed?\u201d Jason pondered. <\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna smiled and replied, \u201cMaybe some nights, but you weren’t delivered by a stork you know,\u201d she winked at him, kissing his lips tenderly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason chuckled.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cYeah, I know,\u201d he thought about his parents loving each other in the same way he made love to his future bride. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou know, I never told my parents but I saw them one-time making love.\u00a0 <\/span>I was probably twelve at the time?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna sat up a little, surprised at this revelation Jason had never shared with her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou never told me about this,\u201d she smiled at the serene look on her fianc\u00e9’s face as he remembered the moment.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI just remembered,\u201d he turned and smiled back at Brianna.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cThey always locked their door; which was most nights,\u201d he laughed remembering the days when they were all much younger.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cThis one time, however, they forgot.\u00a0 <\/span>When I walked in, I saw my mom on top of my father; they were really in the heat of the moment,\u201d he smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cOne thing I remembered thinking to myself was the love I could see being shared between them as my mother and father moved together as one.\u00a0 <\/span>I didn\u2019t feel as if I was prying in on some dirty porn site, I really felt the intense love in the air.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWere you aware they were making love or did you not know what was going on?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna asked, not feeling as if Jason was inappropriate by sharing the story of his parents making love to each other.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI knew what they were doing, my dad had already explained sex to me and the difference between fornication and making love.\u00a0 <\/span>Even seeing my mother naked didn\u2019t seem unnatural or weird to me at that moment — not that I see my mom naked all the time; she\u2019s always clothed or has a robe on.\u00a0 <\/span>It was only for probably 5-10 seconds because when I realized what was going on, I immediately left quietly so they didn\u2019t know I was there, but I didn\u2019t feel weird or dirty.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDidn\u2019t you tell me your parents always said if the door was open, you were welcome to come in but if the door was closed or locked, it meant do not disturb?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason smiled, \u201cYeah, but I was twelve, I needed my dad, and the door was unlocked, but it was after that, I knew why my parents had that rule,\u201d he smiled and winked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you never told them?\u201d Brianna asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I didn\u2019t want to embarrass them, not that I think it would because they\u2019ve always been very open with their love for us since they re-married. I believe it was more me not wanting to out myself that I had come in when the door was closed!\u201d Jason laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI for one think it\u2019s beautiful you\u2019re parents share such an incredible intimacy between them.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I think they still do!\u00a0 <\/span>My father has alluded to that fact when we\u2019ve talked about love and marriage.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cReally, that\u2019s great!\u00a0 <\/span>I, too, want to have the same desire for you when we have children our age.\u00a0 <\/span>I can\u2019t promise you it will be daily as it is now, though,\u201d she said leaning over, kissing him, placing her hand on his mild erection, \u201cbut I do want to make sure we always share our intimacy together for as long as we can.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason turned toward Brianna and slipped his hands under her nightgown and raised it above her head, and then made his way to freeing her from her panties.\u00a0 <\/span>She helped him finish undressing, and he then recreated the love he felt when he saw his parents sharing their love many years before.<\/span><\/p>\n

Chapter Eighteen<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Jessica kissed their children goodbye as they left for the anniversary rendezvous in Reno.\u00a0 <\/span>Once the parents were gone, the three Cartwright children and Brianna went to the family room and got out the game table and several board games.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily and Jillian went to the kitchen for lemonade, chips, and pretzels to snack on while everyone played games they all enjoyed.<\/span><\/p>\n

After a few hours of playing Monopoly, the teams decided to take a break and chill out on the sofa and love seat.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily and Jillian were curled up on the loveseat while Brianna curled up in Jason\u2019s arms\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI wonder what Mommy and Daddy are doing tonight? Mommy’s new gown this year is the prettiest yet.\u00a0 <\/span>Daddy always looks forward to seeing what she chooses each year,\u201d Emily said as she stared up at the ceiling picturing herself in the sexy gown her mother had shared with her the day before when she went with her to the final fitting.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure whatever the dress is, it won\u2019t be on for long tonight,\u201d Jason chuckled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEwe, yuk, Jason!\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t know how Mommy let\u2019s Daddy see her naked.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019d be so embarrassed!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian said innocently.<\/span><\/p>\n

The two elder children and Brianna all erupted in laughter.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cPeanut, how do you think you were created?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason said laughing.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian blushed.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI know that, Jason!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think it\u2019s wonderful your parents display their love so freely with you three,\u201d Brianna said as she looked up at Jason and he smiled down at her, giving her a light kiss on her lips.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, why were Mommy and Daddy divorced?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian asked out of the blue.<\/span><\/p>\n

Surprised, Jason looked over at Emily.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily glared back at him as if to say, what are you going to say to her?<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy do you ask, Peanut?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason prodded, trying to keep his voice calm as if the question was typical for her to inquire about.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve heard over the years Mommy and Daddy talking about when they were divorced, and they even told me they were divorced for a few years but were married again.\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy and Daddy have promised me they aren\u2019t getting divorced but why do they say that?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian wanted to know.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHas Mommy and Daddy done anything to make you think they will get divorced again?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason continued his questions.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, but why would they say that when they aren\u2019t getting a divorce if they talk about it?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

There was a silence and then Jason blurted out, \u201cBecause, Peanut, Mommy and Daddy were divorced for several years when Emily and I were younger before you were born and it was hell for Emily and me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason!\u201d Emily bellowed, giving her brother a look of horror at how he would dare tell Jillian the life they had with their parents living apart.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian sat up with a befuddled look on her face.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWhat?\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy and Daddy are getting divorced?\u201d she asked nervously.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, they’re married now, Peanut, and as far as I know, they’re not planning to split, but before you were born, there were a couple of years Mommy and Daddy didn\u2019t like each other very much.,\u00a0 \u00a0 <\/span>They often argued when they didn\u2019t think Emily and I were listening.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Jason!\u00a0 <\/span>Mommy and Daddy are going to kill you!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily teared up, afraid of how much information her brother would give Jillian.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThey have arguments now, does that mean they’re going to get divorced again?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian worried.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, no, Peanut, when Mommy and Daddy argue now, it\u2019s because they don\u2019t agree with each other.\u00a0 <\/span>When they were divorced, they fought to hurt each other, there\u2019s a difference,\u201d Jason\u2019s voice was sad, remembering how his parents didn\u2019t realize their young children were listening, being permanently scarred by their venomous barbs at each other.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason! Stop!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily pleaded to no avail.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy, Emily? Don\u2019t you think Jillian deserves to know Mom and Dad once hurt each other the way they did because of their anger and selfishness?\u00a0 <\/span>It was horrible!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, I remember, but Daddy\u2019s going to be angry you decided to go somewhere that\u2019s none of your business,\u201d Emily said, her form very uncomfortable.<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna sat stoic as she listened to the two elder siblings argue how much more Jason would divulge to their youngest sister who, until this point, had known very little about her parents divorce before she was born.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

After a night of celebrating the end of an old year and ringing in the new, Adam and Jessica woke up and enjoyed a late breakfast in the lobby restaurant before returning to their home on the Ponderosa.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was another lovely surprise you planned for our anniversary, Mr. Cartwright.\u00a0 <\/span>You always outdo yourself every year,\u201d Jessica winked as she held her mimosa glass to toast her husband\u2019s plans for their wedding anniversary.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou looked stunning in your new gown.\u00a0 <\/span>All I could think of all evening is how fast could I get it off you when we returned to our room,\u201d Adam smiled as he clinked his champagne flute to Jessica\u2019s.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Adam, I\u2019ve never stopped loving you.\u00a0 <\/span>Why did I allow my immature selfishness to send you away?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said somberly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam took Jessica\u2019s hand and rubbed the rings which were again on her left ring finger.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s in the past, we both made mistakes when we were younger but they\u2019ve made us into the people we are today and in many ways, have made us a stronger married couple and better parents.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know,\u201d Jessica said as she sat her glass down and grabbed Adam\u2019s hand with her other.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cIt\u2019s just I wasted so many years trying to hate you instead of just loving you.\u00a0 <\/span>I knew you had never stopped loving me and in some ridiculous, selfish way, I enjoyed it, I enjoyed watching you suffer.\u00a0 <\/span>It makes me so sad now how I hurt you the way I did.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI won\u2019t lie,\u201d Adam looked down at their fingers intertwined with each other, \u201cyou hurt me big time when you allowed Clint to move in with you.\u00a0 <\/span>I didn\u2019t think we ever had a chance of ever getting back together after he moved in.\u00a0 <\/span>All I wanted was our family to be whole again.\u00a0 <\/span>I wanted it for us, but most of all for Emily and Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>With Clint in the picture, being there full time and me only every other weekend, it was hard and many nights I stayed at work just to try to keep my mind off the reality my kids had another man in their lives nurturing them.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cClint was a wonderful man,\u201d Jessica smiled, looking down remembering her relationship with the handsome man she had met in the emergency room where she was working as a nurse when he came in with one of his employees who had been hurt.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHe was excellent to me and the kids, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>He always made sure we had everything we needed, and he never spoiled them either,\u201d Jessica looked back up with a shiny glaze over her eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled, \u201cI\u2019m sure he\u2019s a fine man, and I appreciate he loved our children and took care of you when I couldn\u2019t.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you,\u201d Jessica quietly said under her breath as she took her hand away and patted her eyes with her napkin.<\/span><\/p>\n

As she was putting her napkin back to her lap, the waitress brought the couple their breakfast along with an assortment of breakfast pastries and rolls.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEverything looks fantastic, thank you!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica smiled at the young waitress who was serving them on the chilly new years morning.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, thank you,\u201d Adam quickly looked up and smiled with acknowledgment before picking up his fork and knife, cutting into his steak and egg breakfast.<\/span><\/p>\n

The couple enjoyed small talk about their children and what plans Jason and Brianna had for the ranch house.\u00a0 <\/span>After breakfast, they returned to their room where Adam contacted the bellman to come and collect their luggage while they headed downstairs to check out and drive back to the Ponderosa to spend the next few days with their family at Adam\u2019s childhood ranch his father had built with his help as a legacy to future Cartwrights.<\/span><\/p>\n

It was mid afternoon when Adam and Jessica arrived home.\u00a0 <\/span>When they came into the kitchen from the garage, they were greeted with Emily in the kitchen making sandwiches for her and Jillian.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Daddy, Mommy, you have a good time?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Emily stopped to give her mother and father a kiss on the cheek, welcoming them home.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe did, Princess, thank you,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam responded with a kiss on her forehead.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhere\u2019s Jill?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked as she placed her purse on the kitchen table.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s up in her room getting dressed.\u00a0 <\/span>We just got up not too long ago.\u00a0 <\/span>We stayed up late playing games with Jason and Brie.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going to head upstairs to see if Jillian needs my help,\u201d Jessica said as she walked toward the staircase in the living room.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Emily sat at the table, and Adam told her about their evening of dining and dancing.\u00a0 <\/span>He also told her about how Jessica turned many heads at the party in her stunning gown but stopped at the point when they came back to the hotel room to continue their anniversary celebration. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI hope Trey and I are as happy as you and Mommy are after all these years.\u00a0 <\/span>I never want to put our children through what we went through,\u201d Emily\u2019s voice trailed off from happy to one of sadness as she thought about the years her parents spent apart.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMommy and I talked about that briefly this morning, too, Princess.\u00a0 <\/span>It was a hard time on all of us, and we are better spouses and parents because of it.\u00a0 <\/span>Our only regret is the scars our anger toward each other left on you and Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll never be able to ask your forgiveness for those years, and I\u2019m truly sorry,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam said as he leaned over and stroked his middle child\u2019s cheek.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily smiled as she took her father\u2019s hand.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cNo need to ask, Daddy, you were forgiven a long time ago.\u00a0 <\/span>Yes, it\u2019s part of our past, but it doesn’t have to define our future,\u201d she smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily stood up and sat in her hero\u2019s lap.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cDo you remember the time when I was sick, and you stayed home with me while Poppy took Jason out for the day?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo I remember? Oh, course I remember!\u00a0 <\/span>You had the chicken pox, and we didn\u2019t know it until later that day after your bath.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh my gosh, did they itch!\u00a0 <\/span>I remember you and Mommy always giving me medicine to help the itching.\u00a0 <\/span>I tried so hard to not scratch because you said they would leave a scar.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, and you have a couple of them.\u00a0 <\/span>I think we all do,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam smiled as he moved the strands of tangled hair from his daughter\u2019s face. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEven though there were many sad times, there were good times, too, Daddy.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t regret any of them,\u201d Emily smiled as she hugged her father.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam took his daughter into his embrace and held her tight.\u00a0 <\/span>He tried to fight back the tears as he thought about his tenure as a weekend dad, but happy he and his wife were able to reconcile their differences and find the love they had for each other again and continue it through to their children.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSweetpea, we\u2019re home, do you need Mommy\u2019s help?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked as she knocked on the bathroom door, seeing her daughter standing at the basin looking in the mirror, trying to put her hair in a ponytail.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUGH!\u00a0 <\/span>I can\u2019t get my hair to stay!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian complained as she again ripped the band which held her hair loosely in a ponytail.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHere, let me have it,\u201d Jessica said as she took the decorative band from Jillian\u2019s hand and her brush.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWould you like a fishtail?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked with a smile.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian jumped with excitement and Jessica sent her daughter to her room to get dressed before she braided her hair. The two walked into Jillian\u2019s room which had once been Emily\u2019s when she and Jason would come to stay with Adam during their younger years when their parents were divorced.\u00a0 <\/span>Every time Jessica would enter, it brought back a flood of memories from a bittersweet past.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jillian took out a white turtleneck and the mint green M.I.T.<\/em> sweatshirt her brother had brought her when he came home for Christmas.\u00a0 <\/span>She also grabbed a pair of jeans and sneakers.\u00a0 <\/span>After she had got dressed and put on her socks, she sat down on the ottoman next to the chair in her room so Jessica could braid her hair into a fishtail pony.<\/span><\/p>\n

After Jessica was finished, Jillian turned to her and jumped into her arms, hugging her mother tightly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, Mommy!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, too, baby girl!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica laughed as she held her youngest daughter in her arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

After the love fest, the two Cartwright girls headed back downstairs where they found Adam holding Emily is his arms on his lap.\u00a0 <\/span>She was laying her head on his shoulders and his head resting against hers.\u00a0 <\/span>The sight from behind brought tears of joy to Jessica\u2019s eyes.\u00a0 <\/span>She was so happy to see her middle daughter exchanging a beautiful father-daughter moment, and she could see the love pouring from both of them to each other.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, I thought you were making us a sandwich!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian snapped at her sister but then grinning up at her mother standing next to her at the entrance to the kitchen.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, I was, but you were taking too long, as usual,\u201d Emily stood up from her father\u2019s lap smiling and headed back to the counter where the bread, condiments, and meat were left when she went to share time with her father at the kitchen table.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou know, my dear, you\u2019re getting it back just the way you used to antagonize your brother when you two were younger,\u201d Jessica came over and kissed her daughter\u2019s head, as Emily was finishing up the sandwiches.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes you are, Princess,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam responded.\u00a0 <\/span>You used to antagonize Jason all the time.\u00a0 <\/span>Most of the time he was a good sport about it, though.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love my sister…for the most part,\u201d Emily winked at her sister, \u201cbut some days!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Uh, that would be the same here, Princess, Emily,\u201d Jillian responded back sarcastically.<\/span><\/p>\n

The four Cartwrights had a chuckle while Jessica got a couple of glasses from the cupboard and Jillian got the sack of chips and orange juice from the refrigerator. <\/span><\/p>\n

As the girls were setting the table for the two younger Cartwrights to have lunch, Adam kissed Jessica on the cheek and gave her a pat on her bum and said he was going to head down to the main house to talk over renovations with Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>During their daughter and father time, Emily had mentioned Jason and Brianna had told them about different things they wanted to renovate to make it more their style but still keep the warmth and tradition Ben had built and lived in for many years.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBye, Daddy,\u201d both of the younger Cartwright girls said as their father grabbed his keys off the counter and headed out to the garage.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam jumped in the SUV and headed down to the main house where he was greeted at the door by Brianna.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Adam, when did you and Jessica get back?\u201d she asked as she greeted her future father-in-law at the door and welcomed him inside.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot long ago, the girls are having lunch, do you want to go up and have a visit? I thought I would come down and lend my engineering help to Jason with the proposed plans you guys have discussed for the renovations.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason ran upstairs.\u00a0 <\/span>He opened a can of soda and didn\u2019t realize I had dropped it just a little time before and placed it back in the fridge.\u00a0 <\/span>I knew I should have put it upside down, that\u2019s what we always do when the can is off limits for a bit.\u00a0 <\/span>Anyway, the can spewed all over his shirt so he\u2019s upstairs changing, he\u2019ll be down in a few minutes.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam couldn\u2019t hold back his laughter, thinking about the surprise on Jason\u2019s face when he popped the top and soda went spewing all over him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank goodness you weren\u2019t here to hear what came out of his mouth,\u201d Brianna laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh yeah? I don\u2019t know if I\u2019ve ever heard Jason curse,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Adam, he was so mad.\u00a0 <\/span>I think it was surprise and frustration at the same time, he doesn\u2019t usually curse.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Jessica and I tried to be careful around the kids when they were younger.\u00a0 <\/span>We didn\u2019t want them to think cursing was acceptable language, but we\u2019ve been known to have our moments then and now, too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMe, too, but it\u2019s the exception.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, Dad, what brings you down?\u00a0 <\/span>You and Mom have a good time last night?\u201d Jason smiled and winked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, what are you implying?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna asked with her face turning a warm pink.<\/span><\/p>\n

The Cartwright men laughed.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cBrie, one thing you\u2019ll learn over time is Jess and I have never held back our show of physical love to each other with our children.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m sorry if it makes you uncomfortable.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason\u2019s okay, he really is.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh no, Adam, it\u2019s fine, it\u2019s just my parents were very loving to my brother and me, but some things were left behind closed doors if you know what I mean,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>she smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, of course, we don\u2019t openly talk about our intimate relationship with our kids, but we don\u2019t hide our love to the other either.\u00a0 <\/span>Our children know we still engage in a physical relationship.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI for one think it\u2019s great my dad and mom are still physically attracted to each other at their age.\u00a0 <\/span>I know we\u2019ll be the same way at our parents age as we are today,\u201d Jason took Brianna into his arms and kissed her forehead.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, you\u2019re embarrassing me!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna laughed nervously.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled and wrapped his arm around his son\u2019s shoulders.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cIt\u2019s okay, Brie, he doesn\u2019t mean to embarrass you, I\u2019m sorry.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Adam, it\u2019s okay, I know you and Jessica don\u2019t approve of well, you know.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam hugged his future daughter-in-law. \u201cBrie, you and Jason are adults and are engaged.\u00a0 <\/span>Jess and I are not prudes, and we\u2019re certainly not naive.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Now with that, I think I\u2019ll head to see Jessica while you two discuss load-bearing walls, support beams and all of that annoying construction stuff.\u00a0 <\/span>The girls and I will talk appliances, furniture, and paint,\u201d Brianna said as she hugged and kissed each of the Cartwright men and made her exit to\u00a0go see Jessica and the girls.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/p>\n

\u201cCan I get you something to drink, Dad, coffee, beer?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnything but a shaken can of soda, Son,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam chuckled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, right,\u201d Jason laughed as he headed to the kitchen with Adam following.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason shared construction ideas he had with Brianna and discussed with Adam, for his approval.\u00a0 <\/span>He advised his father how he wanted to blow out the wall leading from the dining room into the kitchen to make the kitchen and dining room a huge room which would flow into the main part of the house.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason also shared how they wanted to modernize the kitchen with top of the line appliances, custom cabinetry, a large prep island with Carrera marble counters.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m impressed with your ideas, son.\u00a0 <\/span>Sounds like you and Brie have some great ideas.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Dad.\u00a0 <\/span>We want to keep the charm and warmth you and Poppy built, but add a modern flair.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, this is your home now.\u00a0 <\/span>Dad left it to you to make it your own, but I know he would be happy with the plans you have to keep his spirit alive with keeping some of the original architecture intact.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The two men took their beers and headed into the great room where they could be more comfortable.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam sat on the settee as Jason stoked the fire he had built when they woke up bringing it back to a roaring flame.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad, there are a few things I need to discuss with you.\u00a0 <\/span>One concerning a decision Brianna and I have come to and one which involves Jillian.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam sat up and stiffened a little.\u00a0 <\/span>He could see and hear the concern in his son\u2019s face and voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad,\u201d Jason said as he stood again and headed toward the fireplace.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cBrianna and I have decided we\u2019re not ready to get married at this time, and we\u2019ve decided once we\u2019re finished with school, she\u2019ll move out here, find a job, and we\u2019ll move in here and live here together for a while.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean you\u2019ll shack up together, don\u2019t you son?\u00a0 <\/span>Married people live together, they share their lives, their beds, their bodies, their love.\u00a0 <\/span>Boyfriends and girlfriends shack up, sleep in the same bed and have sex, something your grandfather would not approve of in this house.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason could hear the anger in his father\u2019s voice and knew he was not happy with the decision his son and fiancee had made. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad, it\u2019s just we don\u2019t want to end up like you and mom did.\u00a0 <\/span>We know it\u2019s going to be really hard for me in the beginning when I start with the firm.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t expect to be given any leniency….\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you won\u2019t, I can guarantee you that, Jason,\u201d Adam interrupted with a sterner tone and volume.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t ever expect any, DAD,\u201d Jason\u2019s voice was tense and rose in volume as well.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI really resent the fact you think I don\u2019t love Brianna enough to marry her, and I wouldn\u2019t treat her with the love and respect she deserves like you do Mom.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t put your relationship even in the same realm as your mother\u2019s and mine.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019re husband and wife, Jason, you can\u2019t even commit to your girlfriend, how dare you even try to compare our relationship with yours.\u00a0 <\/span>You want to just live together, no shack up, and not make the commitment to her she deserves.\u00a0 <\/span>I guess if life gets rough, it\u2019s easier to just end things and have the other move out than stay together and work it out.\u00a0 <\/span>This seems to be the way your generation lives today; shack up and when life gets tough, one of you get going instead of fighting for what matters.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s not fair, Dad!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason yelled at his father.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHow dare you!\u00a0 <\/span>How dare you even lecture me with a holier than thou attitude when you put my sister and me through HELL when we were younger!\u00a0 <\/span>You, Dad, couldn\u2019t commit to Mom, Emily, and I.\u00a0 <\/span>You, Dad, were spending long days and nights at the office while Mom was left at home to raise me alone.\u00a0 <\/span>You, Dad, were the one who couldn\u2019t commit to Mom and me!\u00a0 <\/span>Then your selfishness grew and thought it would be better to bring Emily into the family to make both of our lives hell, so you did!\u00a0 <\/span>Don\u2019t be a hypocrite, Dad, not in my house.\u00a0 <\/span>Who couldn\u2019t commit?\u00a0 <\/span>Who didn\u2019t fight when the going got tough?\u201d Jason yelled as he turned his back to Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam walked over to the fireplace where Jason was standing.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cHow dare you speak to me the way you are, in this house your Poppy and I worked hard and poured love and sweat into to build?\u00a0 <\/span>Your grandfather would not approve of you living with Brianna in this house outside of the confines of marriage, and you know it.\u00a0 <\/span>I will admit\u00a0I was wrong, I\u2019ve always realized I was wrong, but I never stopped loving your mother…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThen why did you leave, Dad?\u00a0 <\/span>Why did you allow our family to be broken?\u00a0 <\/span>Why did you scare my sister and me when we would hear you and Mom fight?\u00a0 <\/span>Not argue, full on fight with hurtful words at each other.\u00a0 <\/span>I know, Poppy would not approve, just like I\u2019m sure he wasn\u2019t happy you and Mom were bringing yet another child into a broken home.\u00a0 <\/span>Poppy would want us to be happy and do what we felt was right for the two of us, something you and Mom can\u2019t seem to wrap your head around.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t you ever speak of how Jillian came into this world as if she were a mistake, don\u2019t you ever!\u00a0 <\/span>You\u2019re mother and I was very much in love again when she was conceived.\u00a0 <\/span>I had already planned to ask Jessica to marry me again.\u00a0 <\/span>Don\u2019t ever speak ill of your mother, what she would want or her judgment, Jason, not without her here to defend herself,\u201d Adam\u2019s voice was low and furious.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad, I\u2019m a grown man, I love Brianna, and I do want her to be my wife…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThen what\u2019s the problem? Why can\u2019t you commit to her?\u201d Adam interrupted loudly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI DO, DAD!\u00a0 <\/span>I love her with all my heart, it\u2019s just…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJust what, Jason?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam was furious at his son.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI DON\u2019T WANT US FAILING LIKE YOU AND MOM DID!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason yelled with anger.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI DON\u2019T WANT TO FAIL MY CHILDREN LIKE YOU FAILED ME and EMILY!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam was beside himself.\u00a0 <\/span>His heart was breaking, but his anger was blocking him from any emotion.<\/span><\/p>\n

Without saying another word, Adam stormed out of the house and slammed the door behind him.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason knew his father would not take his decision to postpone his marriage to Brianna lightly, but he was so angry, and he had allowed emotions to take him to a place he didn\u2019t even realize existed.\u00a0 <\/span>He knew he’d hurt his father deeply, but like Adam, he, too, had a stubborn streak and could not find it within his heart to go after him to beg his forgiveness.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam got in his car and headed back toward his home.\u00a0 <\/span>He parked in the garage and stormed into the house.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica, Brianna, and the girls, who were in the living room, heard the door slam, and Adam came walking through quickly, his face red with anger.\u00a0 <\/span>He didn\u2019t even stop to acknowledge any of the women.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cADAM!\u201d Jessica yelled as he had already started ascending the stairs.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNOT NOW JESSICA!\u201d Adam responded as he continued up to their bedroom.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica and Brianna looked at each other in disbelief.\u00a0 <\/span>What could have happened at the main house that would cause Adam\u2019s demeanor to change so drastically to the negative?\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think I need to go home and find out what\u2019s going on,\u201d Brianna said with caution in her voice as she stood.\u00a0 <\/span>She grabbed her keys, wallet and headed toward the front door.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily and Jillian sat in shocked silence.\u00a0 <\/span>They both wanted to leave because they felt a wave of tenseness in the air and thought it would be best if they were not around so they both asked if they could take their bikes and go see their Uncle Hoss and his family.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica allowed the girls their escape, and they both hurried to the garage and headed down the road to the peace and calm of their father\u2019s brother\u2019s house.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once alone, Jessica gathered the glasses in the living room and put them on the counter in the kitchen.\u00a0 <\/span>She took a deep breath and headed up the stairs into her\u2019s and Adam\u2019s bedroom.\u00a0 <\/span>She found Adam changing into his black jeans and pulling a black cowboy shirt from the closet, the clothes he wore when he was going for a ride on his mount.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJust where do you think you\u2019re going, buster, without telling me what the hell just happened downstairs?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJessica, not now, not you, too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, right now, Adam!\u00a0 <\/span>What is going on? What has you so angry?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam put on his shirt and turned to Jessica, the shirt untucked and unbuttoned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s been my life\u2019s mission to always love and take care of you and our family,\u201d Adam\u2019s voice was low, tense, and in control.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you have, Adam, you have!\u00a0 <\/span>Even when we were divorced, you always made sure we never wanted for anything!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam laughed sarcastically.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWell not according to your son!\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m the biggest failure as a father, and husband…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFirst of all,\u201d Jessica interrupted, her voice growing in anger, \u201cJason does not speak for me, he can only speak for himself.\u00a0 <\/span>You have NEVER failed me, Adam, EVER!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica moved toward the closet to pull out clothes to go riding.\u00a0 <\/span>She was not allowing her husband to go riding alone in the state of anger he was in.\u00a0 <\/span>She knew while Adam found it hard to share his emotions when he was angry, she was going to get to the bottom of what brought it on and put it to rest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know what was discussed, but whatever he said was obviously out of anger…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOr was it pent up frustration and resentment all of these years?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam interrupted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, Adam, why don\u2019t you tell me what happened?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhere are the girls?\u201d Adam asked with a sudden change from anger to concern for his other two children.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve sent them to Hoss’ house.\u00a0 <\/span>You charging in like a bull in a china shop scared the living daylights out of them.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam, what were you thinking?\u201d Jessica asked as she slipped out of her wool slacks and into her riding jeans.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI wasn\u2019t,\u201d Adam\u2019s voice was vexed as he tucked in his shirt and buttoned it up.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis stops here and now.\u00a0 <\/span>We\u2019ll ride as long as we need until you can tell me what happened between you and Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve never seen you two at odds like this.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam grabbed his hat and headed toward the bedroom door.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ll meet you down in the garage.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica finished putting on her riding boots, grabbed her hat and headed downstairs where she found Adam in the car, engine running and the garage door up.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou forgot your coat, silly,\u201d she said tossing it in the back as she got in the passenger seat.\u00a0 <\/span>Without a word, Adam put the car in reverse and the two headed to the stables in silence.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once they arrived, the hand Adam had called ahead had both mounts ready.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam helped Jessica on to her gray mount and Adam on to his.\u00a0 <\/span>They rode together in silence toward the shores of Lake Tahoe.\u00a0 <\/span>As they grew closer to the lake the cold breeze was picking up, but Adam\u2019s anger was still fierce, and he didn\u2019t seem to notice.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once at the lake, Adam helped Jessica down, and he tied their mounts to a nearby tree.\u00a0 <\/span>He took his wife\u2019s hand, and they headed toward the shoreline.\u00a0 <\/span>The only sound was the small waves rolling on shore.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica bundled her coat and pulled up her gloves.\u00a0 <\/span>She was shivering, but she was determined to be there and listen when her husband finally decided to speak.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re freezing.\u00a0 <\/span>Why don\u2019t you go back home where it\u2019s warm?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam turned to Jessica and took her into his arms to warm her up.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy place is with my husband.\u00a0 <\/span>He\u2019s upset, and he needs his partner.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m not leaving.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAt least let me build a small campfire so you\u2019ll stay warm,\u201d Adam said as he looked around for twigs and pine cones from the massive pine trees which inspired the name of the Cartwright ranch.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam went in his saddle sack and got the matches he needed for the fire of pine cones, twigs, and broken tree limbs he had stacked.\u00a0 <\/span>When the fire was going strong, he grabbed the blanket roll on the back of his saddle, laid it out and helped Jessica sit down, then sat next to her.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam sat quietly and stoked the fire with a larger tree limb to keep the fire burning hot and vigorous.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica could see his form was beginning to soften and his anger slowing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you want to talk about it, now?\u201d She asked quietly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam sat for a few minutes quietly and laughed with disbelief.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy son called me a hypocrite and a failure today, Jess.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica asked in disbelief but kept her demeanor in check as she could see her husband\u2019s form was relaxing into sorrow instead of anger.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah…We were talking about taking down walls and putting in beams if the walls were load bearing and somewhere between the steel beams and marble counter tops, he informs me he and Brianna have decided not get married and just live together,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam continued, staring into the fire.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThey what?\u00a0 <\/span>They\u2019ve decided to not get married?\u00a0 <\/span>Why? When?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica sat and asked in disbelief. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know why and I don\u2019t know when.\u00a0 <\/span>The conversation dissolved into a hot mess afterward.\u00a0 <\/span>He started insulting you, me, our marriage, and I wasn\u2019t having our son disrespect you, our marriage, or the choices we made in the past, no matter how much they affected us all.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWHAT? I can’t believe this,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica remained calm but was shocked at what she was hearing.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Jason, why?\u00a0 <\/span>Why would you say things you would later regret?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna asked her fiance as they sat on the couch and he explained what happened to cause Adam to storm out of their house the way he did.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, Babe, it was as a demon that came out of me, a demon I didn\u2019t know even existed.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t feel that way about my parents.\u00a0 <\/span>I know my dad did the best he could when I was young.\u00a0 <\/span>The pain is still there, I guess it\u2019ll never leave,\u201d Jason looked down at his twiddling fingers.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBoth of my parents were at fault in the dissolution of their 1st marriage, it wasn\u2019t just my dad, although that\u2019s the way I made him feel today.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason got up and moved toward the fire to place more wood on the embers.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou knew he would have problems with us deciding to postpone the wedding and just live together for a while.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, I guess I knew, but I never knew he would react the way he did.\u00a0 <\/span>You know it\u2019s not what we want but what I feel we need.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs it what you need, Jason, or is it you\u2019re afraid?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat did we do to our kids, Jess?\u00a0 <\/span>Our selfishness really made a big mess of things.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t know why I didn\u2019t fight for our marriage harder.\u00a0 <\/span>We thought we were so smart, not fighting in front of them. Who did we think we were kidding?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam laughed at his naivety so many years before.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Adam, don\u2019t be so hard on yourself.\u00a0 <\/span>We were younger then, life was so much different than it is today.\u00a0 <\/span>I was the one who gave up…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, but it was my foolish actions which brought you to your breaking point, Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>I know, and I accept it,” Adam interrupted, taking most of the blame for their divorce.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh come on, Adam, don\u2019t be the martyr.\u00a0 <\/span>We were both at fault, and we both equally need to share the blame.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBesides, what is in the past is nothing we can change, we have to keep looking toward the future and learn from our past mistakes so we don\u2019t let them happen again.\u00a0 <\/span>I just never knew Jason was harboring such resentment and anger.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNeither did I!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam said, thinking back to the hurtful words his son confessed, even if they were in a fit of rage.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWas he saying them because you were both angry and he didn\u2019t want to hear what you were saying?\u00a0 <\/span>It was the truth, whether he wanted to hear it or not.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m not happy about his decision at all,\u201d Jessica continued.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf he\u2019s angry with us, he needs to talk it out with us and tell us how he\u2019s feeling.\u00a0 <\/span>If what happened to us during his childhood is stopping him from wanting to commit to Brianna now, he might not ever be able to commit to her or any other woman if he doesn\u2019t get to the root cause of this.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy baby boy, what did we do to him?\u201d Jessica\u2019s voice cracked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBabe, don\u2019t be hard on yourself…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve always wanted to just protect my son!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Tears welled in Jessica\u2019s eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam took a handkerchief from his pocket and wiped the waterfalls from his wife\u2019s cheeks.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe did what we both thought was the best thing for our family at the time.\u00a0 <\/span>Don\u2019t doubt yourself now.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s angry, Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>Hurting like I\u2019ve never seen him hurt before,\u201d she sniffled and wiped her nose with Adam\u2019s handkerchief. <\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre we making the right decision, Brie?\u00a0 <\/span>Maybe my fears are really unrealized.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve known from the day I met you I wanted to spend the rest of my life with you, but then I think that\u2019s what Dad thought about my mom, too, and we see what happened with them,\u201d Jason sighed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, we\u2019re not your parents, you had a difficult few years when you were eight.\u00a0 <\/span>Even though your parents were divorced for a time doesn’t mean we\u2019re destined to fail.\u00a0 <\/span>If anything we can look back on what caused the breakdown of your parent\u2019s marriage, and not allow it to happen to us.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m not saying it won\u2019t but there\u2019s nothing to say it would either.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t want us to change our minds on something we\u2019ve both agreed to do just to appease my parents.\u00a0 <\/span>They have to realize we\u2019re adults now, and they have to accept I\u2019m not going to always make choices they are going to find acceptable in their view.\u00a0 <\/span>I have to do what is right for me, for you, for us.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going to call him when we get back.\u00a0 <\/span>I need to know what made him snap as he did.\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t want this negativity about us to go unchecked.\u00a0 <\/span>We need to talk, mother and son, and, I want him to know how I feel about his decisions.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat exactly do you think about his decision to not marry Brianna and they live together in Dad’s home?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam looked Jessica in her\u00a0eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica turned her head back toward the fire.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI don\u2019t know.\u00a0 <\/span>A part of me feels exactly the way you do, another side of me wants to embrace what would make my son happy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Jessica…\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam got up and walked back over to the shore, picked up pebbles and started throwing them into the wind swept lake.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t oh Jessica me and then walk away, Adam Cartwright.\u00a0 <\/span>I didn\u2019t say I condoned what Jason and Brianna\u2019s decision is, but I also realize my son is an adult now, and I can\u2019t stop him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI agree, Jessica, but I also think about my father\u2019s legacy.\u00a0 <\/span>My dad would want them to be married and live in his home together.\u00a0 <\/span>He wasn’t very happy at all when I agreed to allow them to live together in Cambridge, but I resolved it to be a better move for them both.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo what\u2019s the difference here then, Adam?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica stopped him from throwing the pebbles.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCambridge is temporary.\u00a0 <\/span>Living here at the Ponderosa, this is permanent.\u00a0 <\/span>If we just give our blessing to them living together and not making a commitment to each other, we\u2019re condoning they can split at any time and move their separate ways if times get tough.\u00a0 <\/span>Besides, what if kids\u00a0become involved?\u00a0 <\/span>I don\u2019t like the idea of them having kids if they\u2019re not married.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not our decision, Adam,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said with resignation in her voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>I want to be your girlfriend, but what\u2019s most important is I want to be your wife, your life partner.\u00a0 <\/span>I want to have your kids, our kids.\u00a0 <\/span>I want to grow old with you.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019m not so stupid to think there won\u2019t be times when we\u2019ll be at odds with each other, but it\u2019s how we choose to handle those situations which will determine our success or failure.\u00a0 <\/span>There is no guarantee our marriage will last until we\u2019re old in rocking chairs, I think Poppy would tell you that, times three.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou have a point, Brie, and this is one of the reasons I love you so much.\u00a0 <\/span>You make sense when I think there is no sense to be made.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou can choose to hold on to the fears of what happened in your life, or you can conquer them, not allowing them to control you and do what you know in your heart is you want and need.\u00a0 <\/span>Remember when you had to tell your parents you wanted to attend M.I.T. and not Harvard?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo I ever.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love my son, Jess, and I will not allow this argument to affect our relationship.\u00a0 <\/span>I can only continue to live in the present and look toward the future.\u00a0 <\/span>I won\u2019t live in the past, and if I\u2019m a good father, I can only encourage him to do the same.\u00a0 <\/span>I can also accept his decisions, even if they are not what I would choose for him.\u00a0 <\/span>I have to honor him as not only my son, but as an adult who knows what\u2019s best for his life.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica wrapped her arms around her husband\u2019s waist. \u201cI love you, Adam Cartwright.\u00a0 <\/span>I know it\u2019s hard watching your son grow up, it\u2019s hard for me, too, and I\u2019ll always want him to be my little boy, but I have to also realize he\u2019s not a kid anymore, he\u2019s someone else\u2019s man, their partner in life.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam grabbed the coffee pot he had in his saddle bags, took some of the cold Tahoe water and doused the flame that was keeping them warm.\u00a0 <\/span>He helped Jessica mount, and he then mounted himself, and they rode back to the stables where they were met by the hand who was tending his other livestock.\u00a0 <\/span>He took their mounts and told them he would brush and bed them down for the night.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam and Jessica drove back to their house where they were met by their two daughters as well as Jason and Brianna.<\/span><\/p>\n

When Jessica saw her son, she looked at him with sadness and disappointment.\u00a0 <\/span>He came over to his mother and held her tight in his embrace.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily could tell her brother and fiancee needed private time with their parents and took Jillian\u2019s hand and said, \u201cCome on, I want you to hear the latest Jencarlos Canela CD I bought the other day.\u201d Jillian and Emily scurried from the kitchen quickly and ran up the stairs to Emily\u2019s room and turned on the tunes of their favorite Latin singer.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad…\u201d Jason started, but Jessica stopped him.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cI think the two of you need to speak in private first,\u201d Jessica interrupted.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWhy don\u2019t you and Dad go up to his office and smooth out what happened between you two this afternoon and once you\u2019ve done so, then we can all come together and talk, the four of us,\u201d Jessica gestured toward the stairs leading up to Adam\u2019s office.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad?\u201d Jason said with quiet atonement in his voice.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam still afflicted by his son\u2019s barbs earlier, gestured for his son to go forth and he would follow; he did not want to continue to be at odds with his eldest son any longer.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once the two Cartwright men were on their way upstairs, both Jessica and Brianna let out a sigh of relief. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan I get you something to eat or drink, Brie?\u201d Jessica asked as she headed to the wine fridge to grab the bottle of wine.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll get the glasses and bottle opener,\u201d she smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam tells me Jason said you two were planning to live together instead of getting married? What brought Y’all to this conclusion?\u201d Jessica asked as she took the wine opener from Brianna\u2019s hands as they sat down at the table.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Jessica, I don’t really know what he wants to do.\u00a0 <\/span>I love Jason with all my heart, and there is nothing more I want than to be his wife and the mother of our children, but we had some issues, and I think he\u2019s afraid we will end in divorce, and he doesn\u2019t want that.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI understand those fears.\u00a0 <\/span>When Adam and I were young, before we both graduated, we talked about our lives together, graduation, moving out here and him beginning his career.\u00a0 <\/span>We both feared the unknown, too.\u00a0 <\/span>I think it\u2019s natural.\u00a0 <\/span>What\u2019s not natural is for my son to tuck tail and want to run from them.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know!\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve told him we cannot know what the future holds for us, but we can\u2019t let the unknown dictate our present actions either.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica, I don\u2019t want this, but I\u2019m willing to do what I have to do to keep us together.\u00a0 <\/span>I can only hope this will help show Jason I’m not willing to give up on our love or life together so quickly.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI applaud your unselfishness, Brianna, but Jason is unreasonable, and he certainly is not being fair to you either.\u00a0 <\/span>If he truly loves you with all of his heart and soul and most importantly has faith in you, he\u2019ll do what is right and respectable for you and him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad, I\u2019m so sorry, I don\u2019t know what got into me.\u00a0 <\/span>I, I don\u2019t know what has come over me lately,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>he said with a contrite voice as he sat in the leather wingback chair in front of his father’s desk.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSon, I need to apologize to you, too.\u00a0 <\/span>I was very judgmental and harsh with you earlier, I’m sorry.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know you must have told Mom about what happened, how did she take it?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Jason looked up at Adam, who was standing by the window behind his desk.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam chuckled, \u201cShe wasn\u2019t happy about it, but she actually took it pretty well.\u00a0 <\/span>She said you and Brie were adults, and it was your decisions, not ours.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe is right, Dad, you know that…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, I know that,\u201d Adam interrupted, \u201cbut could this decision have an ultimate effect on your relationship with Brianna?\u00a0 <\/span>How does she feel about all of this? Somehow I don\u2019t think this was a mutual decision.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt is, but it isn\u2019t.\u00a0 <\/span>Dad, I don\u2019t know, part of me says this woman is my soul mate.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve loved her with all of my heart from the moment I laid eyes on her. But there is a part of me that reverts back to when I was eight and saw you and Mom hurting each other, a part of me that’s afraid of losing the only woman I know I\u2019ll ever be capable of loving.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, you can\u2019t allow the past of when you were a child to control your actions as a man today…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou sound just like Brianna, Dad,\u201d Jason interrupted, \u201care you sure you two didn\u2019t speak before?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo this is not a mutual decision then?\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam came over and sat in the other leather wing back chair next to Jason.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason bowed his head, \u201cNo, not entirely.\u00a0 <\/span>I think she\u2019s agreed to it because she loves me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd do you feel it\u2019s fair for her to compromise on something life changing such as this?\u201d Adam looked at his son with a raised eyebrow.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cWhat are you frightened of, Jason? Do you love Brianna enough to marry her? If you don\u2019t, it\u2019s okay to admit it, and if this is the case, you have to let her go, you cannot allow her to live with you in the hopes you will one day be able to marry her.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Dad, I love her with all my heart and soul!\u00a0 <\/span>I told you I\u2019ve loved her from the day I first laid eyes on her!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThen what is it? You say you let the fears of your childhood affect the actions of you as a man.\u00a0 <\/span>I\u2019ve never seen you allow fear to stand in your way of anything.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason stood up and headed toward the window and looked out into the night sky. \u201cDad, you don\u2019t know how I agonized over telling you and Mom I wanted to attend M.I.T. and not Harvard.\u00a0 <\/span>I prayed at least one of the schools would not accept me so I wouldn\u2019t have to face your disappointment.\u00a0 <\/span>I may seem self-assured on the outside, but I am vulnerable at times on the inside.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd that is who we all are, son!\u201d Adam got up and met his son at the window.\u00a0 <\/span>Placing his arms on his shoulders, he continued, \u201cJason, we are all vulnerable to a degree, we are human, we are not God.\u00a0 <\/span>We cannot possibly know what our future has in store for us, but we have to move forward with what our hearts and our faith are telling us to do!\u00a0 <\/span>If you feel living together out of wedlock is what you need to do, you have your mother\u2019s and my support.\u00a0 <\/span>We may not like it, but we’ll support you, regardless because we love you unconditionally.\u00a0 <\/span>However,\u00a0 <\/span>it has to be what Brianna wants, too.\u00a0 <\/span>She cannot compromise based on what you alone want for the two of you.\u00a0 <\/span>I did that with your mother, and it dissolved into a disaster as you know all too well.\u00a0 <\/span>I didn\u2019t fight for our marriage or our love.\u00a0 <\/span>I did what I thought she wanted, and I left.\u00a0 <\/span>I allowed her anger toward me affect our marriage, but most importantly, change your’s and Emily\u2019s lives forever.\u00a0 <\/span>I only ask you don\u2019t make the same mistake with the woman you love.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI shutter at the thought of us hurting each other the way you and Mom did, Dad, I just can\u2019t do that to her!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThen you have to let her go, Jason, you aren’t being fair to her at that point.\u201d Adam\u2019s voice was assured and to the point, hoping it would shake sense into his son\u2019s vulnerability.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo! I can\u2019t do that, Dad, I love her too much, I’ve told you that.\u00a0 <\/span>There is no other woman for me.\u00a0 <\/span>I love Brianna!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As if a streak of lightning struck Jason, his face softened, and he realized what he had been thinking, feeling, and saying.\u00a0 <\/span>The talks with Brianna about postponing their marriage and living together was all one side; his side.\u00a0 <\/span>The vision of Brianna\u2019s saddened eyes when they would discuss it came flooding into his memory.\u00a0 <\/span>For the first time he realized it was not a mutual agreement, he had only conjured up the thought to cloud his own fears.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad, you\u2019re right, I\u2019ve been afraid…not of my love or commitment to Brianna, but my childhood fears, the fears of disappointing Brianna as her husband.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam laughed.\u00a0 <\/span>“Jason, do you know how many times I\u2019ve disappointed your mother in the course of our relationship?\u00a0 <\/span>Too many to count, I can assure you, but the same goes for her with me.\u00a0 <\/span>It\u2019s who we are, and it makes us not only stronger as individuals, but it strengthens our love and commitment to one another, too….the makeup sex is an added bonus,\u201d Adam winked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason\u2019s body was relaxed, and he laughed from the soul for the first time since he had conjured up in his mind this was the best course of action for his relationship.\u00a0 <\/span>\u201cThank goodness Emily and Jill are\u00a0not here to hear you say that, they get so embarrassed,\u201d he said through his laughter.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know your mother has a hard time with thinking of her little boy in that respect…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAs do you with your princess, Dad, admit it…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam shuttered and laughed, \u201cNo, not ever!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t think you have anything to worry about, Dad.\u00a0 <\/span>Em and I are pretty tight, the thought of sex for her is still frightening, believe me. \u00a0 <\/span>Besides, Trey is a good guy, and I know he respects her too much to even talk her into something she doesn\u2019t feel right doing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood, it needs to stay that way…always!\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam laughed, but as he got serious again, he continued, \u201cI know my sweet princess is growing up and I\u2019m losing her to another man….gosh, it\u2019s hard to say\u00a0that.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDad, we\u2019ll always be your kids, even when we have spouses and kids of our own, you and Mom will always be our mom and dad.\u00a0 <\/span>Look at Emily, she still calls you Mommy and Daddy; she\u2019ll always be daddy\u2019s girl.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love the three of you equally, don\u2019t ever forget that,\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>Adam took his son into his embrace.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, too, Dad, and I\u2019m the luckiest man alive because God blessed me with you and Mom and two amazing sisters.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The two Cartwright men decided it was time to head back downstairs to join the two women in their lives.\u00a0 <\/span>They found the two women gathered in the kitchen with half a bottle of wine consumed between them.\u00a0 <\/span>They could hear the laughter coming from the girls as they entered in where they were enjoying time together talking about their days in college and how they shared many of the same anxieties of graduation from college and how entering the real world as an adult felt and feels.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it seems your talk was mutually beneficial,\u201d Jessica said as she got up and went to her husband, kissing him on the cheek and holding him in her embrace. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jason took the hand of his beloved and smiled, \u201cIt was very enlightening on many levels, Mom, and I must now take my beautiful fiancee home as we have some talking to do, just the two of us.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

A surprised but delighted look filled Brianna\u2019s face as she took Jason\u2019s hand. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam? I take it things went well?\u201d she said as she hugged Jason\u2019s neck.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam winked at his future daughter-in-law, \u201cI\u2019ll let you be the judge of that.\u201d\u00a0 <\/span>He smiled, and with that, the younger Cartwright and Brianna headed to their car and left for the main house.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica and Adam stepped back into the house when the tail lights of Jason\u2019s car were in the distant, the music could softly be heard coming from Emily\u2019s room.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam took Jessica into his arms and began to nibble her neck as he moved his hands to her blouse and began to unbutton her shirt.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Mrs. Cartwright, thank you for giving me three amazing children,\u201d he said through his kisses and nibbles on her neck.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMust have been one heck of a great conversation, I take it…\u201d Jessica said breathlessly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUm, yeah,\u201d Adam said lost in the love he was feeling for his wife.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam picked Jessica up in his arms and headed upstairs toward their bedroom.\u00a0 <\/span>They started to stop off at Emily\u2019s door to tell her to keep the music down but decided to continue on as she could hear the two girls singing over the music like backup singers in the band.<\/span><\/p>\n

As they entered their bedroom, Adam placed Jessica\u2019s feet gently back on the ground, and she locked their door.\u00a0 <\/span>They began to undress each other and decided to come together as one on the bear skin rug next to the roaring fire.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica felt the urgency of Adam\u2019s body next to hers and relaxed as she felt his love penetrate the core of her being.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

“I’ve been a fool, Brie, and the talk with Dad today proved it.”<\/span><\/p>\n

“Jason, don’t be hard on yourself.\u00a0 <\/span>With the stress of finishing the semester, losing your grandfather, and our wedding, it got to be too much, and you got scared,”\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna said as she sat on the settee and stroked Jason’s face.<\/span><\/p>\n

“I realized today I never didn’t want to marry you, I just couldn’t imagine ever hurting you the way I saw my parents hurt each other.\u00a0 <\/span>I love you too much to ever be like that to you.”<\/span><\/p>\n

“Jason, we’ll have arguments, we’ll probably have flat out fights where we do say things that might be hurtful, and we’ll probably regret.\u00a0 <\/span>It’s part of being human, and God gives us the grace to forgive one another when that happens.\u00a0 <\/span>I have no doubt we’ll be able to forgive each other when and if it should ever occur.”<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason looked into Brianna’s eyes, studying the love staring back at him.<\/span><\/p>\n

“I love you, and I don’t want you to be just my live-in girlfriend, I want you to be my wife.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna, will you please do me the honor of marrying me?”<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna’s lips turned upward into a huge grin.\u00a0 <\/span>“Of course! I say yes again and again and always, Jason!\u00a0 <\/span>I love you,” she leaned into him, and he fell flat to the settee.<\/span><\/p>\n

The couple kissed passionately as they were both ready to share their lives together as husband and wife.<\/span><\/p>\n

“You know,”\u00a0 <\/span>Jason said as he looked up into his bride to be’s eyes,\u00a0 <\/span>“Dad said the make-up sex is intense after a fight, shall we see if he’s right?”\u00a0 <\/span>Jason winked and smiled with a devilish grin.<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna stood up and held out her hand for Jason to take.\u00a0 <\/span>They headed for the stairs, but Jason couldn’t wait and pressed Brianna to the wall and kissed her passionately.\u00a0 <\/span>The couple slid down the wall as they began to undress each other.\u00a0 <\/span>They made their way back toward the living room and became one next to the fire burning in the stone hearth of the great room.<\/span><\/p>\n

Chapter Nineteen<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

The spring semester of Jason’s and Brianna’s senior year had finally come to a close, and they had reached commencement.\u00a0 <\/span>Both families were extremely excited and proud of their children for finishing their classes and both graduating with highest honors in their respective field of study.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily and Jillian had to miss their last day of school because the Nevada Cartwrights traveled to the east coast in time to catch\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna’s commencement at Wellesley College and a week later at M.I.T. for Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>Because Emily and Jillian had finals scheduled the week before, they could not attend Brianna’s Baccalaureate Day and Picnic Lunch held at Tower Courtyard overlooking Lake Waban.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason, Brianna’s fianc\u00e9, and her parents took several pictures at the ceremony and lunch to share with Adam, Jessica, and his extended family back in Nevada.<\/span><\/p>\n

Because Jason was still finishing school when the Nevada Cartwrights arrived in Boston, Adam put his family up at the Hyatt Regency Hotel on Memorial Street near the M.I.T. campus so Jason could concentrate on the few finals he had left to take.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna’s uncle and his wife were unable to make the trip to Cambridge for the two graduations as his wife was in the last few weeks of her pregnancy with their first child.\u00a0 <\/span>It was the start of a busy summer season for the Cape as well.\u00a0 <\/span>Since her uncle was the resort manager for the Cape’s most exclusive resort, he was busy making sure the resort was up and running with an elite service level, but he had sent his congratulations to both his niece and her future husband earlier.<\/span><\/p>\n

The morning of Brianna’s commencement ceremony was a beautiful Saturday in New England.\u00a0 <\/span>There was a crisp morning breeze, perfect for the outdoor graduation ceremony.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

It had been an early wake-up for the Nevada Cartwrights to get dressed, pick up Jason, and get to the campus on time to park and be transported to the graduation ceremonies.\u00a0 <\/span>They wanted to arrive early to get a good seat for the commencement exercises.\u00a0 <\/span>Since Adam knew they would not have time to enjoy breakfast, he had stopped at the Au Bon Pan near Harvard on their way to the hotel the previous evening and picked up pastries for them to enjoy in the morning.\u00a0 <\/span>The plan was to meet up with Brianna and her family after graduation for the luncheon honoring the newest alumni of Wellesley College.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Once graduation ended, and the new graduates had exited, there was a mad dash for everyone to find their family members.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna had known this from a previous experience when she volunteered at the commencement exercises a few years prior, she set up a meeting place for her family and the Cartwrights to all come together once the families got up to leave the ceremony grounds.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Baby, you did it!” Jason yelled and ran to Brianna waiting patiently for her family and the Cartwrights.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason, Adam, Jessica, Emily, and Jillian were the first to arrive at the designated meeting point where Brianna was anxiously waiting.\u00a0 <\/span>When Brianna saw Jason, she ran to him, and he picked her up and swung her around kissing her passionately.\u00a0 <\/span>Her graduation cap fell off her head, despite the four bobby pins she wore to keep it in place on top of her head. Emily picked up Brianna’s hat and put it on Jillian’s head.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica thought it looked cute and took a picture of her two daughters with Jillian wearing part of Brianna’s graduation regalia.<\/span><\/p>\n

When Jason set Brianna back on the ground, she received congratulations, hugs, and kisses from the entire Nevada Cartwright clan.\u00a0 <\/span>A few minutes later, Brianna’s parents, Theresa, Anthony, and Brianna’s brother, Liam,\u00a0\u00a0<\/span>joined the group, and another round of hugs and kisses were in order after Brianna had introduced her brother to Jason’s family.<\/span><\/p>\n

They were all together when they walked to the post-ceremony luncheon.\u00a0 <\/span>On the way to lunch, Brianna talked about the highlight of Senior Week, which took place the week between the end of classes and graduation.<\/span><\/p>\n

“The alumni committee hosted a wonderful luncheon on Wednesday organized by the Alumnae Association. Once lunch was over, the induction ceremony took place, and we have all been inducted as alumnae of Wellesley for life!\u00a0 <\/span>I would have loved for Jason to be there with me.\u00a0 <\/span>I can’t believe I now have a degree in education and history,” Brianna said excitedly. <\/span><\/p>\n

The week following Brianna’s graduation, Jason had a hectic week of finals.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna stayed with her family, and they met up with the Cartwrights a few of the days and attended museums together, as well as a day trip to Newport, RI, the site of where Brianna spent many summers as a child.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna originally wanted to have their wedding in Newport until they opted for a much smaller ceremony in Nevada at the Ponderosa.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Since Hoss, Joe, and his family could not travel east for either graduation, both universities streamed their commencement ceremonies, and they were able to watch the ceremonies on the big screen TV at Hoss’ house via his IPad. <\/span><\/p>\n

When the morning of Jason’s graduation arrived.\u00a0 <\/span>His assembly time at Johnson Athletics Center was 8:00 A.M..\u00a0 <\/span>He had gone over the security expectations with his family Friday night during dinner.\u00a0 <\/span>Since each graduate was only allowed four tickets per student with no exceptions, Jillian offered to stay back with Anthony,\u00a0Theresa, and Liam, so Brianna\u00a0could attend Jason’s graduation in person.\u00a0 <\/span>M.I.T.\u00a0 <\/span>streamed the ceremony live, and Brianna’s family and Jillian watched it on Anthony’s laptop at the hotel.\u00a0 <\/span>Once graduation was over, the plan was for everyone meet at The Capital Grille<\/em> on Boylston St. in Boston.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam, Jessica, Emily, and Brianna met in the hotel lobby at 8:30 A.M. and took the next scheduled shuttle bus to Killion Court, site of the M.I.T. graduation ceremony.\u00a0 <\/span>Once they arrived and cleared security, they had found seats behind the students on the side aisle which Jason had processed in on.\u00a0 <\/span>The weather, like the week before, had been glorious and the keynote speaker, Matt Damon, was funny and enlightening for the newest M.I.T. graduating class.\u00a0 <\/span>When Jessica and Brianna heard Jason’s name called and watched him walk across the stage, they both held each other as they were overcome with emotion watching him receive his diploma and moving his tassel from the right to the left on his academic cap.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

After the last degree was awarded and the graduates were dismissed, the Cartwrights and Brianna stayed at their seats and Jason came back and met up with them.\u00a0 <\/span>He hugged Brianna first, and she gave him a long congratulatory kiss.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason then hugged both of his parents, and Jessica\u00a0gave her son\u00a0a kiss on his cheek, telling him how proud she was of him.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason then picked up his sister and hugged her tightly.\u00a0 <\/span>They held each other for a few minutes with their eyes closed and communicating only with their body language.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

“I’m so proud of you, Brother,” Emily’s voice broke as she tried to hold back her tears of joy for Jason.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

“We’ve been through a lot, you and me, Sis,” Jason replied, “but I made it, and I look forward to the day you walk across that same stage, whatever it might be,”\u00a0 <\/span>Jason’s voice cracked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Watching their two children, who had become so close during the years of their divorce, Adam and Jessica held each other, both wiping tears away as they saw the immense love of their two oldest children.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once they were able to exit Killion Court and make their way to The Capital Grille<\/em> in Boston, Jason left his gown on, and they met up with Brianna’s parents and Jillian for a post-graduation luncheon honoring both of their graduates who would now transition to bride and groom to be.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once both graduations were complete, Adam and Jessica, along with Brianna’s parents stayed a few more days and helped the kids pack up their belongings.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam had sold the apartment to a girl who would be attending Harvard in the fall.\u00a0 <\/span>Closing on the apartment would be handled by Adam’s attorney at Cartwright, Inc. and the buyer’s real estate agent.\u00a0 <\/span>Since Adam had needed to return back to work as soon as possible he, Jessica, Jillian, Brianna, and her mother, flew back to Nevada while Jason made the week-long road trip to Nevada with Emily and the moving truck.<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna and her mother traveled back to Nevada to handle\u00a0last minute wedding preparations at the Ponderosa.\u00a0 <\/span>Since their wedding was only a week after everyone had finally arrived, Brianna’s father and brother, who drove Brianna’s car to Nevada, would fly back to Connecticut with Brianna’s mother after the wedding.<\/span><\/p>\n

After the moving truck was packed and apartment cleared, the cleaning crew came in to make the apartment like new for the new owner’s arrival in July.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna had a tearful goodbye with Jason, Emily, her father, and brother as they set out for their long road journey back to Nevada.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

“Massachusetts has been amazing to us, and we’ll never forget her,”\u00a0 <\/span>Jason said as he and Brianna held each other one last time, looking at the building where they had spent the last four years of their lives as students.<\/span><\/p>\n

Early the next morning, kisses and hugs were shared with the family. \u00a0 <\/span>Jason and Emily in the moving truck, Brianna’s father, Anthony, and her brother, Liam, in Brianna’s new Land Rover Discovery Sport, the SUV her parents had purchased for her as a graduation gift, headed out for the first leg of the trip west.\u00a0 <\/span>After parting ways, Adam, Jessica, Jillian, Brianna, and Theresa took a cab to Boston’s Logan airport for a long day’s flight back to Reno.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

The week had gone smoothly for Theresa and her daughter, who were staying at Jason and Brianna’s home on the Ponderosa.\u00a0 <\/span>Extensive renovations had been done to the house after they returned to school back east for their final semester.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna was excited to show her mother the newly renovated house Ben had left to her fiancee upon his death. \u00a0 <\/span>She admired the blending of the modern and original western charm and complimented her daughter and future son-in-law on the architecture and interior design of their new home. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam, Jessica, and Jillian stayed at their home on the Ponderosa in case Brianna, or Theresa needed anything, they wanted to be close by.<\/span><\/p>\n

The day of Brianna’s final fitting for her wedding dress arrived, and she invited Jessica and Jillian to come with her and Theresa to see the dress custom fitted to her body.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica offered to drive as her Porsche Macan was more comfortable than Jason’s Rav4.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

“Emily will be disappointed she wasn’t here to attend the final fitting of my dress,” Brianna said from the back seat of Jessica’s SUV as they headed down the mountain toward Reno.\u00a0 <\/span>“She will, but you can come up to the house so she can see it when she gets home.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam will be off all next week for the wedding, and we plan on staying up at our ranch house until after the wedding.”<\/span><\/p>\n

The foursome arrived at Swoon…A Bridal Salon<\/em> and Brianna advised the receptionist she had come for her 10:30 A.M. appointment for the final fitting of her dress with Monique.\u00a0 <\/span>They were escorted to the center of the salon where they were quickly met by the bridal consultant, Monique, who had worked with Brianna from the first day she had looked at dresses.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Brianna, hello! Today is it, we have your gown ready for you.\u00a0 <\/span>Who is with you today?” Monique inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Hi Monique, you might remember my mother, Theresa, and I also brought my future mother-in-law, Jessica, and my soon to be sister-in-law, Jillian.”<\/span><\/p>\n

“I do remember your mom.\u00a0 <\/span>Hi, Theresa, I’m happy to see you again.\u00a0 <\/span>Hi, Jessica and Jillian, have either of you been to Swoon or any bridal fitting before?”<\/span><\/p>\n

“No, we haven’t.\u00a0 <\/span>My daughter, Emily, who is traveling back from Cambridge, Mass, with her brother and Brianna’s fianc\u00e9, Jason, would have loved to have been here to see all of these beautiful gowns.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason and Brianna graduated from college these past few weekends, so she’s keeping her brother company as they are moving him and Brianna to their new home and they won’t be back for another few days.”<\/span><\/p>\n

“Congratulations on your new degree, Brianna, how exciting for you!\u00a0 <\/span>Graduating college, getting married, moving to Nevada, you’re one busy girl…You’re from the east coast originally aren’t you?” Monique made small talk, getting to know everyone a little better.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Yes, I’m from Connecticut originally.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason and I met when we were both attending our respective schools in Cambridge.”<\/span><\/p>\n

“I’m so happy for you both, and I know you’ll have a long happy life together.\u00a0 <\/span>Now, on to why you’re here!\u00a0 <\/span>We have your gown ready in the dressing room.\u00a0 <\/span>If you’re ready, let’s slip it on and show your family!”<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna and Monique left for the fitting room reserved for her and her final appointment.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

“It’s so beautiful.\u00a0 <\/span>I know Jason will die when he sees me in this dress,”\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna smiled as she placed the gown over her head.<\/span><\/p>\n

From the bohemian ivory lace which adorns this dress from top to bottom to its ultra feminine silhouette, it features a plunging sweetheart neckline and is fitted to just below the hips and flares into a\u00a0 <\/span>sweeping train.\u00a0 <\/span>This gown puts a bold twist on a timeless look with a lace keyhole back with elusion netting and silk covered buttons centered in the sexy plunging back of this dress.\u00a0 <\/span>It’s a true showstopper from both directions.<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna elected to not wear a veil but only a headpiece inspired by baby’s breath and vintage wax flower crowns.\u00a0 <\/span>The pearl-encrusted halo is soft, and a romantic piece made with freshwater pearls, Swarovski crystals, and a nylon ribbon tie.<\/span><\/p>\n

“It’s a perfect fit!” Brianna said as she moved her hands to her face as her breath was taken away by how stunning she looked.\u00a0 <\/span>She twisted her body to see herself from the back. “I love how the dress hugs every curve of my body.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason won’t be able to control his emotions when he sees me in this dress for the first time.\u00a0 <\/span>“My eyes are getting misty right now just looking at it.\u00a0 <\/span>I love it, I absolutely love it.”<\/span><\/p>\n

“Are you ready to go show your family?” Monique smiled at Brianna in the mirror.<\/span><\/p>\n

“YES!”\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna’s face was glowing with love and beauty.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the bride made her way around the corner, she carried her dress so she did not step on the train as she was walking toward the pedestal in front of the couches where her mother, Jessica, and Jillian were sitting.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica and Theresa were talking about the upcoming rehearsal and dinner when Jillian saw Brianna for the first time in her gown.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Mommy, look!” Jillian tapped Jessica on her arm to see Brianna walking toward them in her dress.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Oh, Theresa, Brie looks stunning!”\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica said putting her hand over her mouth.<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna arrived and stepped up onto the pedestal, and Monique took the train from Brianna and spread the train to its full drama.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Oh, baby, you look incredible…absolutely beautiful,”\u00a0 <\/span>Theresa wiped her eyes with the tissue she had in her hand.<\/span><\/p>\n

“You like it, Mommy?” Brianna turned her head to look at her mother.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Baby, I love it, and I know Jason and Daddy will, too.”<\/span><\/p>\n

“I think the final few alternations were what she needed to make this dress a perfect fit,”\u00a0 <\/span>Monique grinned.<\/span><\/p>\n

“I agree 100%, Monique,” Theresa replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

“I hate to be a Debby downer, but let’s go take the dress off so I can get it prepared for you so it doesn’t get wrinkled for your wedding day. When is the big day again, Brianna?” Monique asked as they headed back to the dressing room.<\/span><\/p>\n

“A week from Saturday, I can’t wait!” Brianna giggled.\u00a0 <\/span>“I can’t believe it’s almost here!\u00a0 <\/span>I’ve been waiting nearly four years!”<\/span><\/p>\n

Once Brianna was back in her clothes, she came back out to where her entourage was waiting and sat with them until Monique had her dress ready for travel.<\/span><\/p>\n

After fifteen-twenty minutes, Monique came back and told them her dress was at the front desk ready to go.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna hugged Monique and thanked her for everything she had done for her in helping her select the dress to the accessories to the final fitting. <\/span><\/p>\n

“I wish you a beautiful wedding day as well as many happy years of wedded bliss. God bless you, Brianna.”<\/span><\/p>\n

“Thank you again,” Brianna said, blowing her a kiss as they headed for the front desk where a large box was waiting.<\/span><\/p>\n

“The dress is folded in this box, and we ask you not remove it from here until you’re ready to put it on for your wedding.\u00a0 <\/span>Our staff has it folded in this box a particular way so it will not wrinkle or get damaged.”<\/span><\/p>\n

“Can I open the box to at least show my other sister-in-law who will be arriving in a few days? I know she’ll want to see the dress,”\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna inquired. <\/span><\/p>\n

“Oh sure, you can open it all you want but it’s laying on a cardboard bust, and the rest of the dress is folded very carefully below so be very gentle and try to not touch or move the dress until your wedding day,”\u00a0 <\/span>Nicole, the front desk clerk, ordered.<\/span><\/p>\n

She handed the large box to Brianna, and they exited the store.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica quickly walked to the car and opened the back hatch.\u00a0 <\/span>The box fit perfectly in the back of the SUV.<\/span><\/p>\n

When the girls got into the car, Jessica advised since they were in Reno, Adam had invited them to lunch at 4th St Bistro.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam had made the reservations for noon, as the restaurant had just started lunch hours about a month prior, and Adam was excited to take them to one of his and Jessica’s favorite restaurants in Reno.\u00a0 <\/span>Once in the car and on their way, Jessica called Adam on his private line to let them know they had just left the bridal boutique, and they were on their way to the restaurant.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam told Jessica he had just left his last meeting of the morning and would probably arrive around the same time they did.\u00a0 <\/span>They made it just in time since the traffic was not too heavy.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Once at the restaurant, the ladies and Jillian were getting out of the car when they saw Adam pull up in his sports car.\u00a0 <\/span>He found a place to park, and he escorted them to the entrance.\u00a0 <\/span>As they were walking, Jessica told him about the gorgeous dress Brianna had chosen and how Jason would cry when he saw her in it on their wedding day.<\/span><\/p>\n

For the next few hours, the ladies and Adam dined on succulent beef and fresh seafood.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam had ordered wine for the adults and Jillian preferred a glass of iced tea.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

When it was time to go, Adam settled the check with the waiter and escorted the ladies and Jillian to Jessica’s car, gave her and Jillian a kiss and told them to have a safe trip home.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam removed his jacket and headed back to his sports car and then to the office.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once they arrived back at the Ponderosa, they stopped at Jessica and Adam’s house first to drop off the dress, they did not want to give Jason a chance to sneak a peek at Brianna’s dress before their wedding day.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

It was mid-afternoon on Saturday when Brianna heard a honk in the circular driveway.\u00a0 <\/span>She went to the door to see who it was, and it was Jason and Emily in the moving truck; they had finally arrived home.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna ran outside into Jason’s arms as they met half way.<\/span><\/p>\n

“I’ve missed you so much, Babe!\u00a0 <\/span>I can’t believe you’re finally home!”<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily got out of the passenger side and stretched her legs.\u00a0 <\/span>She grabbed the trash collected along the way of the final 7-hour day of their journey.\u00a0 <\/span>She went inside to throw away the garbage and call her mother to let her know they had finally arrived.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Where’s dad and my brother? Are they right behind you and Emily? Brianna asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Probably, they stopped a few places along the way so they should be arriving within the next half-hour to an hour, I would imagine.”<\/span><\/p>\n

“Is your mom here? How did she like what we did with the house?”<\/span><\/p>\n

“She loves it.\u00a0 <\/span>She especially loved we kept some of the old western charms yet integrated a lot of modern conveniences, especially the kitchen, she loves the kitchen.\u00a0 <\/span>She told me it made her want to get renovations done on our house in Connecticut when they return home after the wedding.”<\/span><\/p>\n

“Tell her to wait until after the wedding to tell Anthony.\u00a0 <\/span>I don’t want him getting mad at us until they are back home,” Jason winked.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Hi, Jason, welcome home!\u00a0 <\/span>It’s so good to see you made it safely.\u00a0 <\/span>How was the trip?” Theresa came and hugged her soon to be son-in-law.<\/span><\/p>\n

“The trip was long, but it was great having just Emily with me to keep me company.\u00a0 <\/span>We reminisced about the old days when we were little and how we’ve grown so close over the years.\u00a0 <\/span>She misses her boyfriend a lot, though.\u00a0 <\/span>She spoke to him every day when we would finally stop for the night.\u00a0 <\/span>I know she can’t wait to see him.\u00a0 <\/span>I’m surprised she didn’t ask for me to drop her at our house in Carson City on the way up here so she could go see him but I think she just wanted to get home and see everyone.”<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily sat on the settee in the great room and called her mother to let her know they had made it and could she come down to Jason and Brianna’s home.\u00a0 <\/span>After she had called her mother, she called Trey to let him know they had finally made it home as well.\u00a0 <\/span>After they got off the phone, Trey\u00a0immediately headed up to the Ponderosa for his reunion with Emily.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason and Brianna were unloading the moving truck when they saw Jessica drive up.\u00a0 <\/span>They stopped, and Jason ran over to his mother’s car and gave her a hug when she got out.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Jason, welcome home!\u00a0 <\/span>I’m so happy you made it safely.\u00a0 <\/span>Did Emily give you any troubles?” Jessica wanted to know.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Actually, Mom, Emily and I got along famously.\u00a0 <\/span>We never fought really, just an argument here and there on where to stop for lunch or what song to play on the IPod.\u00a0 <\/span>We had a great 5 days together.\u00a0 <\/span>She missed you, Dad, Jillian, and especially Trey, but she was great.\u00a0 <\/span>I’m really glad you and Dad let her come with me.\u00a0 <\/span>I’m so blessed to have such a great family!”<\/span><\/p>\n

“Honey, I’m really glad to hear it was a good trip.\u00a0 <\/span>I know Dad will be happy to hear you two made it home together in one piece, and she didn’t give you any trouble.”<\/span><\/p>\n

“Mommy!” Jessica heard a squeal from the house.\u00a0 <\/span>She saw Emily run to her and grab hold of her, practically knocking her down.<\/span><\/p>\n

“I missed you and Daddy so much, but I had a blast with Jason; I would do it again!”<\/span><\/p>\n

“Where’s Jillian?” Emily looked around, not seeing her sister in the car.<\/span><\/p>\n

“She was sound asleep on the couch.\u00a0 <\/span>She had stayed up late last night playing a video game.\u00a0 <\/span>We had to get up early this morning so we could go for the final fitting of my dress for the wedding and I think the early wake-up and summer heat caught up with her.\u00a0 <\/span>I came downstairs to get down here, and she was sleeping hard so I left a note in case she wakes up, she would not worry.” <\/span><\/p>\n

As Jason and Brianna were getting the last few things into the house from the truck, Anthony and Brianna’s brother, Liam, drove up into the circular drive. Theresa came out to welcome Anthony and her son to Nevada and helped them in with their luggage while Brianna and Jason closed up the moving truck.\u00a0 <\/span>Theresa was anxious to show Anthony the renovations on their daughter and soon to be son-in-law’s home and plant some ideas for their home once the wedding was over. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica and Emily had already left and headed back to their ranch house a few miles away.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam was on his way home and had planned to stop and see Jason for a short visit before heading up to the home he shared with Jessica and the girls.\u00a0 <\/span>Since Jason, Emily, Anthony and Liam\u00a0had been on the road most of the day, Adam felt it best everyone have a quiet evening at their own homes. \u00a0 <\/span>They could all come together for a big barbecue the next day with Hoss, Joe, and their families so Brianna’s family could meet the rest of Jason’s family and to talk about the upcoming wedding the following weekend.<\/span><\/p>\n

Chapter Twenty<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

The day of Jason’s and Brianna’s wedding had finally arrived.\u00a0 <\/span>The couple had been through a lot in the almost four years they had known each other and fell in love, and it was finally the day the woman of Jason’s dreams would become his wife at 3:00 P.M..<\/span><\/p>\n

After the wedding rehearsal dinner at Lone Eagle Grille the night before, Jason parted ways with his fiancee as a single man.\u00a0 <\/span>The next time he saw her was when she walked down the aisle at the wedding site made for them on a bluff which overlooked Lake Tahoe, one of their favorite places to visit on the Ponderosa during the summer months.<\/span><\/p>\n

It was 8:00 A.M. and the house was quiet.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason had a restless night of sleep as his nerves were filled with the excitement of seeing his bride later that afternoon.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He got up, took a shower, went and made coffee and sat on the back deck and listened to the morning birds singing their praises to another beautiful summer day.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason thought about the joys and sorrows of his life from the time he was old enough to remember to his current day.\u00a0 <\/span>He rewound his memory to when he was a young boy, spending every other weekend and a month in the summer with his father and Poppy on the beautiful land his family worked hard to build and create\u00a0a legacy for future generations of Cartwrights.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason recalled his boyhood years when he first found his passion for mine engineering and knew this would be his future career when he became an adult. Those years seemed so long ago now.\u00a0 <\/span>He chuckled to himself at the memory of having to tell his parents about choosing M.I.T. over Harvard and how he had to gather enough courage because he felt his choice would disappoint them.\u00a0 <\/span>His most precious memories though were the times he spent with his grandfather, Ben Cartwright at the very house he now lived at with his future wife.\u00a0 <\/span>Not only did he have his parents to thank for the man he had become but Ben had played a starring role in not only the man he had become but the husband, and career man he would soon be.\u00a0 <\/span>Tears puddled in his eyes when he thought about his Grandfather not being there in physical form at the most important day of his adult life, but he knew he would be with him in spirit and in his heart.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason’s selfishness wanted Ben\u00a0there so he could see his smiling face, hear his voice and feel his embrace as he welcomed him and his new bride into the family, but it was not meant to be.\u00a0 <\/span>He would have to find his way through the day without the second most important man in his life by his side.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason stood up from the outdoor furniture on the deck, grabbed the t-shirt he had brought downstairs with him, headed to his Rav4 and drove to the site where Ben was buried next to two of his three wives.<\/span><\/p>\n

As he drove up to the location where his grandfather was buried.\u00a0 <\/span>He saw the two headstones which read, beloved wife and in the middle of them was a large marker which simply read CARTWRIGHT.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason walked up and knelt down in front of his grandfather’s grave and sat in quiet solitude for a few moments before speaking.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Today is the day, Poppy.\u00a0 <\/span>Remember when we Face Timed, and I told you she said yes?\u00a0 <\/span>You were so happy for us.\u00a0 <\/span>You loved Brianna from the day you met her.\u00a0 <\/span>You always told me I had a sparkle in my eye and an aura of light around me when she was with me, or I would talk about her.\u00a0 <\/span>You told me it was the same sparkle your dad said you had when you married, Elizabeth.\u00a0 <\/span>It was the kind of love only Heaven could produce you told me.\u00a0 <\/span>Well here it is, here is the day we seal that love with a promise of forever.”<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason found the moment almost unbearable.\u00a0 <\/span>He didn’t want to be saying these words to dirt and a cement marker.\u00a0 <\/span>“Damn, Poppy, why did you have to die so soon?\u00a0 <\/span>There was so much life I still had to share with you,” Jason’s voice broke.<\/span><\/p>\n

“He shares those moments with you every day, Jason, just in a different way now,” was the voice he heard behind him.\u00a0 <\/span>“He’s here with us now, at this moment.\u00a0 <\/span>He’ll be with us today and every day.”<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason turned around and saw his father standing beside him, his face filled with happiness but with a touch of sadness showing through.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Dad, how long have you been standing here?” Jason asked as he stood up and wiped the tears from his eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam held out his arms and took his son into his embrace.\u00a0 <\/span>“Long enough to know you miss him just as much as I do.”<\/span><\/p>\n

“You made your poppy so proud, Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>You make your mom and me proud every day.\u00a0 <\/span>We couldn’t be happier for you and Brianna today.\u00a0 <\/span>I know Poppy would be over the moon if he were still here.”<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason chuckled as he broke his embrace with Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>“You know, Dad, when I would come up to the Ponderosa after you and Mom married again, Poppy and I would come and sit on the site where Brianna and I will marry today, and we would stare out onto the lake, usually when the sun was saying goodnight.\u00a0 <\/span>We would talk about how great it was we were a whole family again.\u00a0 <\/span>He said he saw me become just a little boy again, and it filled his heart with joy.\u00a0 <\/span>I really didn’t know what he meant back then, but now I do.\u00a0 <\/span>I lost a part of me when you and Mom split.\u00a0 <\/span>It wasn’t your’s or Mom’s fault, it just was.\u00a0 <\/span>It helped mold me into the man I am today and in some strange way, I’m thankful for it.”<\/span><\/p>\n

“You know, Jason, Jessica and I made a lot of mistakes along the way.\u00a0 <\/span>You and Emily paid a huge price for some of them, but I’m thankful you found a rainbow in the dark cloud.\u00a0 <\/span>I know we did.”<\/span><\/p>\n

“It’s a testament to your love for\u00a0each other, Dad.\u00a0 <\/span>I’m not naive to know Brianna and I won’t have rocky roads throughout our life together.\u00a0 <\/span>We’re human, we’ll make mistakes with ourselves and to one another.\u00a0 <\/span>Poppy was the best teacher about forgiveness.\u00a0 <\/span>What an incredible pillar of strength he was.”<\/span><\/p>\n

“And I see the same strength in you, Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>Dad was always extremely proud of his eldest grandson.”<\/span><\/p>\n

“Thanks, Dad, I really needed to hear those words today.”<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam pulled a gold coin from his pocket and handed it to Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>He looked at his father with confusion.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam placed it in his son’s hand and folded his fingers around it.<\/span><\/p>\n

“When Poppy was building his empire, he worked long hours every day and most weekends when I was growing up.\u00a0 <\/span>When he finally fulfilled his legacy, he had this gold coin commissioned.\u00a0 <\/span>He had three made; one for each of his sons.\u00a0 <\/span>The heads side you see is the Ponderosa tree logo and the flip side was one of Dad’s favorite quotes from his favorite naturalist\/author:\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks. \u2014John Muir.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

“\u00a0<\/span>He always said if we were good to the land…”<\/span><\/p>\n

“…the land would be good to us,” Jason finished what his Poppy always said.<\/span><\/p>\n

“I want you to carry this coin today, Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>This is part of your Poppy’s legacy.\u00a0 <\/span>I want him to be with you when you say your vows to Brianna.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason looked at the coin and then Adam.\u00a0 <\/span>He was speechless.\u00a0 <\/span>He never knew the coin had existed.\u00a0 <\/span>He never remembered his father talking about the coin.\u00a0 <\/span>He was glad on his special day, his wedding day, he shared a very intimate moment about his grandfather and what he did for his three sons.\u00a0 <\/span>He was graced with his father’s trust to share such a precious keepsake with him on the happiest day of his adult life.<\/span><\/p>\n

The two stayed arm in arm a few minutes longer staring at Ben’s eternal resting place before Adam patted his son on his hip and told him it was time to get back to the house, they had a wedding they had to get ready for.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna woke up early but laid in bed thinking about her last few hours as a single woman.\u00a0 <\/span>“My life is getting ready to change this afternoon, and I’ve never been more excited for what the future holds.”<\/span><\/p>\n

Since Nevada was a Certification Reciprocity state, she was able to obtain her teaching certification in Massachusetts but be legal to teach in Nevada.\u00a0 <\/span>Once she and Jason returned from their honeymoon, they would discuss what her future would hold in the educational field.\u00a0 <\/span>They both desired to start a family as soon as possible, but Jason wanted Brianna to fulfill her dream as an educator if she so desired before settling down to be a full time mother to their children they hoped to have together.<\/span><\/p>\n

Today was her’s and Jason’s day, she thought to herself.\u00a0 <\/span>There would be plenty of time to think about a new family when they returned from their honeymoon in New Zealand. <\/span><\/p>\n

She jumped out of bed and went over to the dress she would, \u00a0in a few hours, be putting on just before she was to leave and marry her best friend.\u00a0 <\/span>She smiled as she looked at it hanging on the back of her closet door.\u00a0 <\/span>She went into the bathroom and took a warm shower and started the preparations for the busy day ahead.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

“Mommy!” Emily yelled from her bedroom.<\/span><\/p>\n

“What, Emily, I’m trying to get ready, what do you need?” Jessica asked as she was placing the last roller in her hair.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam walked out of the shower, and Jessica tossed him a towel to wrap around himself after he dried off.<\/span><\/p>\n

Without even thinking, because the door to the master bedroom was open, Emily came running in.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Sorry, Daddy!” Emily said as she turned her head quickly but lucky for her, Adam had already put the towel on his waist.<\/span><\/p>\n

“It’s okay, Princess, but you know the rule…”<\/span><\/p>\n

“But Daddy,” Emily pleaded, “your bedroom door was open!”<\/span><\/p>\n

“What do you want, Emily?” Jessica walked out of the bathroom, tightening the soft pink silk sash around her summer robe.\u00a0 <\/span>“I’m trying to get dressed! We have formal pictures in a few hours!”<\/span><\/p>\n

“Mommy,” I left my shoes in Carson City!”<\/span><\/p>\n

“You what? Emily, how could you be so absent minded? I asked you when we went back to the house the other day if you had everything, and you said you did…Adam!”<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam came out of the bathroom, wiping his face from the left over shaving cream around his neck.<\/span><\/p>\n

“What’s going on?” <\/span><\/p>\n

“Emily left her shoes at home in Carson,” she turned and placed her hands on her hips.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam cocked his brow at his middle child. “I guess you’re going to have to drive home and get them then,” was Adam’s simple solution.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Daddy! I can’t! I have to put my make-up on, do my hair…Jillian and I have to be at Jason’s house in an hour and a half for pictures.\u00a0 <\/span>I don’t have time!” She began to panic.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Princess, don’t cry,” Adam came and took his daughter into his arms and pulled her to his chest.\u00a0 <\/span>Has Trey already left?”<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily pulled away and looked up at her hero, “TREY! He can get them for me!” <\/span><\/p>\n

“Problem solved, now close the door behind you, please,” Adam calmly said as he headed back into the bathroom, tossing his towel on the bed after Emily had left the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

Emily\u00a0got on the phone to call her boyfriend.\u00a0 <\/span>She gave him the garage door code and told him where the shoes were in her room. \u00a0Trey stopped by the house in Carson City to get the shoes before heading up to the Ponderosa for the wedding.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica went back into the bathroom where Adam put on his boxers and brushed his teeth.\u00a0 <\/span>She leaned against the door jam and stared at Adam without saying a word.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam continued to brush his teeth and when he was finished looked at Jessica in the mirror; she had no make-up on, and her hair was in large hot rollers.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled, he was trying not laugh at Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>He knew she was not happy.<\/span><\/p>\n

“What?” Adam said, trying to hold in the laughter he was feeling at how Jessica was looking at him, but he knew if he knew what was good for him, he’d keep a serious tone to his voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

“What was that?” Was Jessica’s short, terse response.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Enlighten me please?” he asked as he walked by her into the bedroom.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Emily came in and practically caught you naked because she was so wrapped up in herself and the fact she had forgotten her shoes and you dismissed it like it was nothing.”<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam went and closed the door, as he had asked Emily to already do, but hadn’t.<\/span><\/p>\n

“First of all,” he said as he came to his wife and took her into his arms, “she didn’t catch me naked, and if she had, it would have been her fault for barging in on us like she did.\u00a0 <\/span>Second, me getting upset when she was already panicked was only going to add fuel to the fire.”\u00a0 <\/span>Adam undid the tie on his wife’s silk robe and placed his arms on her breasts.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Oh, Adam, stop,” she pushed his hands away.\u00a0 <\/span>“All you men think about is sex all the time.\u00a0 <\/span>It’s a wonder we didn’t have a half dozen or more children before my hysterectomy,” she turned and went back to the bathroom, leaving her robe untied as she started to put on moisturizer ahead of her make-up.<\/span><\/p>\n

“It wasn’t from a lack of trying, ” Adam winked entering the bathroom behind her as he came up from behind, and gave her a love slap on her bum and kiss on her neck.<\/span><\/p>\n

“I don’t know what we’re going to do with Emily.\u00a0 <\/span>One of these days she’s going to barge in, and she’ll catch you or both of us completely naked, and making love or just having raw sex.”<\/span><\/p>\n

“If she does, she’ll get an eye full won’t she?” Adam was flippant.\u00a0 <\/span>“I really don’t know why either one of you are in a tizzy about her shoes.\u00a0 <\/span>Trey can quickly grab them on his way up here.\u00a0 <\/span>He’ll be here before she has to leave for pictures with Brianna and her family anyway.”<\/span><\/p>\n

“I know, I guess she comes by her drama from yours truly.”\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam came and stood next to Jessica and looked her in the mirror and said, “Ya think?” and winked.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Adam Cartwright, you’re not fair!” Jessica laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

He laughed and apologized as he took his wife into his arms and kissed the tip of her nose.<\/span><\/p>\n

“I wouldn’t change you or Emily in any way.\u00a0 <\/span>I love you both more than the air I breathe.\u00a0 <\/span>I’ve guess I’ve just learned how to take you both in stride when you get worked up.”<\/span><\/p>\n

“You definitely are the ying to my yang, Adam Cartwright,” Jessica smiled and kissed her husband tenderly.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Mommy!” Jessica heard her youngest daughter now yelling her name.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Jillian, must you yell in the house?” she said as she walked out of the door to her’s and Adam’s bedroom toward Jillian’s room.<\/span><\/p>\n

“What is it, Baby Girl?” she asked as she entered her room.<\/span><\/p>\n

“I can’t get the zipper zipped on my dress.”<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna had showered and was in her white terry robe with Bride<\/em> embroidered in gold on the right side of her chest.\u00a0 <\/span>She was brushing her teeth when Theresa knocked and entered asking if she was decent because the photographer, hair and make-up people had arrived to get her styled and photographs started for the big day.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

“Oh my gosh, it’s really happening isn’t it, Mommy?” she asked as she sat in the tall chair looking at her mother in the mirror as the stylist prepared the make-up and hair products to transform Brianna into a beautiful bride.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Honey, where is your pearl halo? Randy will need it when he finishes pinning your hair up.”<\/span><\/p>\n

“It’s on my dresser, can you grab it, please?” She asked her mother.<\/span><\/p>\n

“While Cynthia puts makeup on you, I’m going to go take a shower and get dressed so she can do my makeup next,” Theresa said as she placed the box with Brianna’s headpiece on the counter away from the makeup and hair products.<\/span><\/p>\n

“I’ll be done in about thirty minutes, Theresa,” Cynthia replied as she prepared the airbrush with foundation.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

“You’re all dressed now, and don’t you make a beautiful bridesmaid,”\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica commented as she stood back and looked at her youngest daughter completely dressed for her brother’s big day.<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna had wanted to carry the lace into her attendant dresses and chose a feminine A-line re-embroidered lace dress with a sheer lace yoke and softly flared cocktail length priness seam skirt.\u00a0 <\/span>The dresses were a soft blue which carried through the color theme of light blue and gold of the wedding.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica sent her daughter downstairs and told her to not eat or drink anything and to sit carefully so she wouldn’t wrinkle or tear the lace on her dress.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Jessica was headed back to her room, she heard a quiet, Mom<\/em> from Jason’s bedroom.\u00a0 <\/span>She turned back and headed to his room where she found the door partially open.\u00a0 <\/span>She knocked and walked in and said, “What is it…” She stopped mid sentence as she caught first sight of her son completely dressed in his tuxedo.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Oh my gosh, my baby boy!” she cried.\u00a0 <\/span>“You look so gorgeous!”<\/span><\/p>\n

“Will you do me the honor of helping with my boutonniere?” he asked, holding out the delicate white rose and stephanotis arrangement made specifically for him to wear.\u00a0 <\/span>He tried not to cry with his mother but seeing her reaction to him caused him to choke a little. <\/span><\/p>\n

“I would be honored to, Honey,” she said as she took it from him.\u00a0 <\/span>She took the pin from the stalk and placed her hand behind the left lapel, trying to find the perfect spot to pin the groom’s flower. <\/span><\/p>\n

“My wedding bouquet was a cascade of stephanotis with white and pink flowers sprinkled throughout when I married your father the first time,” Jessica said as she pinned Jason’s boutonniere.\u00a0 <\/span>“Do you know why the stephanotis is such a traditional delicate flower for brides to use on their wedding day?” she asked Jason.<\/span><\/p>\n

“I don’t, but I bet you’re going to tell me,” Jason smiled and winked at his mother.<\/span><\/p>\n

“I am because like I’ve always told you and your sisters, you need to learn something new every day,” she giggled. “Seriously, the meaning of the stephanotis flower is happiness in marriage and a desire to travel.”<\/span><\/p>\n

“Does this mean Brianna will want to travel a lot? Jason looked bewildered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica laughed.\u00a0 <\/span>“No, honey, I think most brides use it for the happiness in marriage part of the meaning.”<\/span><\/p>\n

“Whew, I sure hope that’s the way Brianna sees it.\u00a0 <\/span>I like to travel, but I’m kind of a homebody, like Dad.”<\/span><\/p>\n

“You are your father’s son, Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>You always have been,”\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica looked at her son seriously after she secured the flowers to his lapel. <\/span><\/p>\n

“You sure clean up nice, my boy,” Adam’s voice boomed behind Jessica.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica whirled around and smiled.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam was now dressed in the same style tux as Jason, the only difference was his vest and tie were black to Jason’s off white to match Brianna’s dress.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica placed her hands on Adam’s chest; she was overcome with emotion of how handsome her two favorite men looked.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Will you do me the honor with my boutonniere now, Mrs. Cartwright?” Adam asked as he held out the single white rose for Jessica to pin to his lapel. <\/span><\/p>\n

“It would be my honor, my love,” she smiled as she took the flower from Adam and pinned it to the left lapel of his tuxedo jacket.<\/span><\/p>\n

The three Cartwrights heard the doorbell ring, it was Trey, and he had arrived with Emily’s shoes.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

“You look stunning, Sweetheart,” Anthony said to his daughter as she stood in front him completely dressed as a bride.\u00a0 <\/span>“I’m breathless.\u00a0 <\/span>I don’t know if I’ve seen you look so beautiful.”<\/span><\/p>\n

“Thank you, Daddy.\u00a0 <\/span>I love you,” Brianna said beaming.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Oh, honey….” Theresa said as she came in just behind Anthony.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Hi Mommy, how do I look? I think I’m ready to marry my groom now.”<\/span><\/p>\n

After a short family prayer, Brianna, Anthony, and Theresa met Brianna’s brother, Liam, downstairs to continue the wedding portraits which had already begun with the photographer.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Pam, the life photographer they had hired to document the most special day in Brianna’s and Jason’s life, had talked about how she wanted to not only take standard wedding portraits and photographs, she wanted to tell a story through pictures of their most special day.\u00a0 <\/span>She had come in with the stylists and took random shots of the bride and her family as they prepared to hand over their only daughter to the man she loved in marriage.\u00a0 <\/span>Pam’s assistant, Joe, was doing the same, only with the groom and his family.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

After the typical bride’s and groom’s family pictures had been taken separately, and the last of the guest has arrived and were seated, the small orchestra hired for the wedding began to play J<\/strong><\/em>ohann Pachelbel – Canon in D Major<\/i><\/b>.\u00a0 <\/span>The minister, Jason, and his best man, his father, Adam, walked up the aisle to the floral arch overlooking Lake Tahoe.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

After they had turned toward the guest, Hoss escorted Jessica to the right front row.\u00a0 <\/span>She was wearing a stunning off the shoulder fit and flair silk floor length dress in medium blue. The mother of the groom’s dress was designed with middle rushing, and a delicate lace appliqu\u00e9 across the sweetheart neckline, short sleeves, and right side. The lace was adorned with shimmering sequins sprinkled throughout for a hint of sparkle. <\/span><\/p>\n

Once seated, Jason came to his mother and presented her with a single red rose and bent down to kiss her on the cheek.\u00a0 <\/span>When Jason resumed his place next to the minister, Brianna’s mother was escorted in by Brianna’s brother, and they sat down on the left front row across from Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>Theresa looked stunning in her sheath lace mother of the bride gown with scallop lace at the v-neckline.\u00a0 <\/span>The dress had a slimming fit through the waist and hip, Theresa chose a two-tone of black lace over a latte color chiffon lining.<\/span><\/p>\n

After Theresa and Liam\u00a0had been seated, the small orchestra began J<\/strong><\/em>eremiah Clarke’s,\u00a0 <\/span>Trumpet Voluntary<\/i><\/b>.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian processed in first followed by Emily.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna’s best friend from childhood and her matron of honor was the last of the bridal processional before the bride.\u00a0 <\/span>Once all of the attendants were in place, the music stopped, and the minister asked the invited guest to stand and turn toward the back.\u00a0 <\/span>The orchestra began playing a stronger version of Trumpet Voluntary<\/i> again as a horse-drawn carriage adorned with white roses, lilies and stephanotis rode up to the center aisle.<\/span><\/p>\n

Anthony, Brianna’s father, stepped out of the carriage and helped his daughter down, and they took their place at the beginning of the aisle.\u00a0 <\/span>They stood for a moment, so Jason and Brianna could capture the moment they saw each other for the first time.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason felt his knees begin to give way to the beauty before his eyes.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam took his son’s elbow to help steady him.\u00a0 <\/span>The bride and her father started to ascend the aisle toward her groom.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna’s smile was larger than Lake Tahoe.\u00a0 <\/span>She was beaming with love and happiness.\u00a0 <\/span>Once Brianna and her father reached the front row, Theresa stood with her husband, and they each gave Brianna a kiss on her cheek.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna presented a single red rose to her mother to signify the unconditional love she had provided her from birth.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason moved toward Brianna, shook Anthony’s hand and took his bride to his arm, and they moved toward the floral arch and the minister together.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once they were ready, the minister asked Jason and Brianna to face each other and hold hands.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Dearly, Beloved, we are gathered here today at this beautiful site, built by Jason’s grandfather, Ben,and\u00a0his sons, in the face of this company to join together this man and woman in holy matrimony.\u00a0 <\/span>It is commended to be honorable among all men, and therefore is not by any to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly, but reverently, discreetly, advisedly and solemnly.\u00a0 <\/span>Into this holy estate, Jason and Brianna, present now, come to be joined.\u00a0 <\/span>If any person can show just cause why they may not be joined together, let them speak now or forever hold their peace.”<\/span><\/p>\n

When there were no objections for Jason and Brianna’s union, the minister continued.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Marriage is the union of husband and wife in heart, body, and mind.\u00a0 <\/span>It is intended for their mutual joy, and for the help and comfort given on another in prosperity and adversity.\u00a0 <\/span>But more importantly, it is a means through which a stable and loving environment may be attained.
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

Through marriage, Jason and Brianna make this commitment together to face their disappointments, embrace their dreams, realize their hopes, and accept each other\u2019s failures.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason and Brianna promise one another to aspire to these ideals throughout their lives together, through mutual understanding, openness, and sensitivity to each other.
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

So I ask you, Jason, do you take Brianna Lynn Nelson to be your wife, to have and hold from this day forward.\u00a0 <\/span>Do you promise to love her, cherish her, in sickness and health, for richer or poorer, forsaking all others, until you’re naturally parted by death?<\/span><\/p>\n

“I will,” Jason vehemently replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

The minister continued, “Brianna, do you take Jason Benjamin Cartwright to be your husband, to have and to hold from this day forward.\u00a0 <\/span>Do you promise to love him, cherish him, in sickness and health, for richer or poorer, forsaking all others, until you’re naturally parted by death?<\/span><\/p>\n

“I will,”\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna’s voice cracked.<\/span><\/p>\n

“May I have the rings please,” the minister requested from the matron of honor and best man; they were placed on the minister’s book.<\/span><\/p>\n

“The circle of the wedding band is also a symbol of eternity.\u00a0 <\/span>The circle has no beginning or end and is, therefore, a symbol of infinity. <\/span><\/p>\n

Traditionally, the wedding ring is worn on the fourth finger of the left hand. This is because the vein in this finger was believed to lead directly to the wearer’s heart.<\/span><\/p>\n

So I ask you now, Jason and Brianna, to exchange vows and rings with each other.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason’s hands quivered as he picked up the diamond and platinum wedding band to place on his bride’s finger.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Brianna, take this ring as a seal upon the marriage promise I have spoken to you.\u00a0 <\/span>As you wear it, may it be a reminder of how much I love you, not only on this precious day but every single day of your life.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason finished slipping the band on Brianna’s finger, and the minister requested her to do the same.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJason, I give you this ring as a sign I choose you, and as a reminder I will always love you as my partner, my lover, and my best friend to the end of my days.”<\/span><\/p>\n

Once the exchange of rings and vows were completed, the minister gave the final blessing to the couple and presented them as married to everyone in attendance.<\/span><\/p>\n

“It is my indeed pleasure to pronounce Jason and Brianna married as husband and wife.\u00a0 <\/span>What God has joined together, may no man put them under.<\/span><\/p>\n

May I ask you, Jason and Brianna, to please turn to your family and friends.”<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason took Brianna’s hand, and they turned toward the audience beaming with pride, love, and joy.<\/span><\/p>\n

“My dear friends, it is my distinct pleasure to be the first to introduce to you, Mr. and Mrs. Jason Cartwright.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason, you may kiss your bride.”<\/span><\/p>\n

Their family and friends stood, started clapping, and cheering.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason dipped Brianna and gave her their first kiss as husband and wife.\u00a0 <\/span>The entire group of invited guest erupted in louder cheers and laughter.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Once Jason brought Brianna back to her feet, her matron of honor handed her back her bouquet and the bride and groom recessed to the back of the meadow\u00a0followed by their honor and bridal attendants then families.<\/span><\/p>\n

After the music had ended, the minister invited the guest to load into the waiting carriages to be taken to the covered tent where they could enjoy cocktails and passed hors d’oeuvres while the wedding party took additional photos. <\/span><\/p>\n

After a half hour of family photos with the two families and attendants, Jason and Brianna entered the carriage in which Brianna and her father rode in while the bridal party, Brianna’s family and the other Cartwrights loaded into another carriage and headed toward the covered tent to greet the rest of the invited wedding guest. <\/span><\/p>\n

Pam held the bride and groom’s carriage back to get a few more photographs of them inside their flower adorned carriage with the\u00a0site of their wedding\u00a0in the background. <\/span><\/p>\n

Once all photos were taken, Pam and her assistant, Joe, headed out in front of Brianna and Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>The couple stayed back a few minutes so one last time, they could enjoy the site of their ceremony newly married.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason put his arm around his bride and looked lovingly into her eyes. He thanked her for making The Ponderosa the place where they were married.<\/span><\/p>\n

“I could feel my grandfather’s spirit showering his blessing on us.\u00a0 <\/span>It was always his wish for the future generations of Cartwright children to marry here if they desired,” he told Brianna as he pulled out the gold coin his father had given him to borrow earlier in the day.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason explained how Ben had created the coin and had it commissioned for his three sons, and his father had allowed him to carry it with him so he could feel his grandfather close to him at the most meaningful part of the day.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Jason, this is exquisite, and I’ll thank Adam for his generosity to you this evening at the reception.\u00a0 <\/span>I know it means so much to you, so it does to me as well.”<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason kissed his bride and told the driver they were ready to head to the reception tent.<\/span><\/p>\n

As they grew closer to the tent, they could hear the music playing with laughter and talking in the background.\u00a0 <\/span>They saw the catering staff gliding through the guest with trays of food and glasses of champagne.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Pam had been capturing candid snapshots of the guest, talking, laughing, hugging, kissing, and smiling, to add to the wedding story for Jason and Brianna’s wedding album.\u00a0 <\/span>When Pam saw the carriage arriving, she went over to the DJ to let her know the couple was arriving.\u00a0 <\/span>Pam got in place to record in pictures, the arrival to the party held in their honor.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Friends and family, it is my pleasure to announce to you the arrival of Mr. and Mrs. Jason Cartwright!”<\/span><\/p>\n

The bride and groom danced into the tent among the family and friends standing around welcoming them to the reception.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason and Brianna made their way to the dance floor where the DJ had begun to play the music to their first dance, Amazed, by Lonestar<\/i><\/b>.\u00a0 <\/span>The couple drew closer together and moved as one across the dance floor in each other’s arms.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam and Jessica, Anthony and Theresa, Liam, Emily and Trey, all stood at the edge of the dance floor watching the eldest Cartwright son and his bride dance in each other’s arms, talking and laughing with each other between kisses.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

When the song ended, the bride and groom were lost in each other’s eyes and had forgotten there were any other people around them until the DJ congratulated them again.\u00a0 <\/span>She then announced to Jason she was his from now on, but it was time for the bride to share a dance together with her father.\u00a0 <\/span>The DJ started the daddy\/daughter dance song, I<\/i><\/b> loved her first, by Heartland<\/i><\/b>.\u00a0 <\/span>Anthony took his daughter into his arms and held her tight as they swayed to the music.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason stood with his parents as he watched his new father-in-law dancing with his wife.\u00a0 <\/span>Listening to the lyrics brought tears to his and Adam’s eyes.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica wrapped her arms around Jason’s waist until the end of the song.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Okay, Mom Jessica, your son has a very special song he would like to dance with you at this time, will you step onto the floor with your son\u00a0now please.” <\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna and Jason had kept it to themselves that Jason would have a special dance with just his mother.\u00a0 <\/span>The DJ started the song Jason had chosen to dance his mother with. \u00a0The Perfect Fan by the Backstreet Boys<\/i><\/b>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason took his mother’s hands and wrapped them around his waist and asked her to listen to the lyrics as they spoke directly to his heart when he thought about her.<\/span><\/p>\n

It takes a lot to know what is love<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

It’s not the big things, but the little things<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

That can mean enough<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

A lot of prayers to get me through<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

And there is never a day that passes by<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

I don’t think of you<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

You were always there for me<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Pushing me and guiding me<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Always to succeed<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

[Chorus:]<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

You showed me<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

When I was young just how to grow<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

You showed me<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Everything that I should know<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

You showed me<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Just how to walk without your hands<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Cuz mom you always were<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

The perfect fan<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

God has been so good<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Blessing me with a family<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Who did all they could<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

And I’ve had many years of grace<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

And it flatters me when I see a smile on your face<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

I wanna thank you for what you’ve done<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

In hopes I can give back to you<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

And be the perfect son<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

[Chorus]<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

You showed me how to love<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

You showed me how to care<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

And you showed me that you would always be there<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

I wanna thank you for that time<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

And I’m proud to say you’re mine<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

[Chorus]<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Cuz mom you always were,<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Mom you always were<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Mom you always were,<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

You know you always were<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Cuz mom you always were… the perfect fan<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

As the song was ending, Jason spoke the last words with the song’s artists, “I love you, Mom<\/i>,” and he held his mother tight, holding back tears of gratitude and love.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam was so moved by the beautiful gesture their son had\u00a0made to his life partner, he joined his son, with Brianna, to the middle of the stage and they all hugged and kissed each other.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason left Adam and Jessica as Adam was dabbing tears from Jessica’s eyes so her makeup would not run.\u00a0 <\/span>He asked if he could have the microphone from the DJ because he wanted to address everyone but especially his new in-laws and parents.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Hi, everyone.\u00a0 <\/span>Brie and I would like to thank you all for sharing this very special day with us.\u00a0 <\/span>I would like to take a few moments before we sit down to dinner to\u00a0thank Anthony and Theresa for hosting this beautiful wedding and reception in our honor.\u00a0 <\/span>We love you both so much and are blessed you’re in our lives as Brianna’s mom and dad and my new extended family.<\/span><\/p>\n

Mom, Dad, I want to thank you for loving me, and accepting me, even when I wasn’t always the best brother or son.\u00a0 <\/span>I’m so proud you’re my mom and dad and Brianna’s in-laws.”<\/span><\/p>\n

There was applause from everyone and Jason smiled as he tried to compose himself as he paid tribute to his grandfather, Ben Cartwright.<\/span><\/p>\n

“As you all know, I lost a great mentor in my life not all that long ago.\u00a0 <\/span>He would have loved this party we have going on tonight,” He said as he looked to the heavens.\u00a0 <\/span>He choked up and continued, “Poppy, this party’s for you,” and blew a kiss upward.<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna came and put her arm through Jason’s, and she placed her other arm around his waist, and he fell on her shoulder trying to hold back his emotions.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Aw, Jason, that was a beautiful tribute, thank you,”\u00a0 <\/span>the DJ said as she took back the microphone. “Now, I ask everyone to please be seated at this time.\u00a0 <\/span>The staff will be coming around with wine selections, champagne, and dinner, thank you.”<\/span><\/p>\n

The DJ turned on soft dinner music as everyone made their way to the ten person round tables throughout the tent.\u00a0 <\/span>Each table was adorned with elegant white china plates with a clear glass charger lined with a gold rim underneath.\u00a0 <\/span>Each table was covered with a light blue linen table cloth.\u00a0 <\/span>Large sprays of flowers were set high in the center which\u00a0rounded out the tablescape.\u00a0 <\/span>The couple didn’t want to be seated separately from their guest, so they took their seat at one of the tables with friends whom the couple had met at M.I.T. and Wellesley, and had traveled to Nevada for the wedding.<\/span><\/p>\n

The staff came around with wine and water, and each guest was also provided a glass of champagne to toast the couple during dinner.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Each person was asked if they would prefer red or white wine with dinner, starting with the table the bride and groom sat at first.<\/span><\/p>\n

Dinner consisted of a choice entree of either tender filet of beef or salmon, and the vegetables were the same for both entrees:\u00a0 <\/span>roasted carrots and fingerling potatoes, Jason’s favorites. <\/span><\/p>\n

After all guests had been served dinner and wine, each of the honored attendants got up and gave a small speech about the bride and groom.\u00a0 <\/span>Other guests were invited to also stand and give a little toast if they chose to.<\/span><\/p>\n

Even though plates had been served to Jason and Brianna, they took the time to get up and personally thank each guest who had come to celebrate their special day with them and hoped they were enjoying their evening.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Shortly after they had finished making their way around the tent talking to friends, family, and senior management members of Cartwright, Inc., the time had come for Jason and Brianna to cut the bride’s and groom’s cakes.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The three-tiered bridal cake was covered in a light blue fondant with delicate lacework in white icing neatly placed on the tops and sides of each tier.\u00a0 <\/span>The cake sat on a grand gold pedestal, and a small bouquet of flowers finished the top.\u00a0 <\/span>The three bridal attendants had laid their bouquets along with Brianna’s at the base of the cake.\u00a0 <\/span>The grooms cake was a simple round dark, delicious chocolate cake and icing with the M.I.T. logo done in fondant in the school colors.<\/span><\/p>\n

As Pam was getting the shot ready for pictures, friends of Jason’s and Brianna’s were teasing them to smash cake in each other’s faces.<\/span><\/p>\n

“You don’t have to sleep with her tonight,” Jason laughed at his friends, and they started chanting, “smash it, smash it…”<\/span><\/p>\n

The catering staff had cut a small piece of cake for each of them to take the oversized bite piece and feed it to one another.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Jason Cartwright, you better not if you know what’s sacred to you,” She laughed as they both had their pieces ready to feed to one another.<\/span><\/p>\n

When Pam was ready, they each fed the other the piece of bridal cake and just as they took the cake into their mouth, a flash went off.\u00a0 <\/span>They both commented on how moist and tasty the cake was, licked their fingers and took a drink of their champagne.\u00a0 <\/span>Once the bridal cake pictures were taken, the catering company took the cake away to be cut up and served to the guest. <\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna and Jason then moved onto the grooms cake where another piece was cut and served to them to feed each other with.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason and Brianna readied themselves until Pam advised them to feed each other for the picture.\u00a0 <\/span>Jason started to gently put the piece of cake in Brianna’s mouth but this time, Brianna shoved the piece of her cake in Jason’s face, and their\u00a0friends went wild.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna shrugged her shoulders, and Pam snapped another quick picture with cake all over Jason’s face and the ‘gotcha’ look on Brianna’s face. <\/span><\/p>\n

Jason took Brianna into his arms and kissed her with the cake all over his face, and she started laughing hysterically because now cake was all over her face, too.\u00a0 <\/span>Pam kept snapping pictures and got great impromptu moment shots of the bride and groom along with their friends having fun with each other and the cake.<\/span><\/p>\n

The catering staff moved in and took the grooms cake away to be cut and served along with the bridal cake, to all the guest in attendance.<\/span><\/p>\n

After the cake was consumed, the DJ turned the music up, and the guest along with the bride and groom all joined on the dance floor and danced the night away.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As the time was drawing near 10:00 P.M. Jason and Brianna decided it was time to thank everyone again for coming and take off for their honeymoon.\u00a0 <\/span>They planned to stay in Reno overnight before they headed to Los Angeles for their flight to New Zealand the next day. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Jessica would see to it Brianna’s family made it back to the airport for their trip back to the east coast.<\/span><\/p>\n

Trey brought Emily’s SUV up to the tent, and Jason helped his bride into the front seat.\u00a0 <\/span>Trey drove them to the house so they could change their clothes for their send off. <\/span><\/p>\n

Once back at their home and out of the car, Jason lifted Brianna into his arms as they headed toward the front door.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily looked at her brother and new sister-in-law and sighed.<\/span><\/p>\n

“They look so happy.\u00a0 <\/span>I wished that was us.”<\/span><\/p>\n

Trey smiled and drove around the circle drive to the side of the house so the couple could have a little private time before entering their home for the first time as husband and wife.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

“Well, Mrs. Cartwright, we’ve married our first child, how do you feel?” Adam said as he brought his wife into his chest and kissed her on the lips.<\/span><\/p>\n

“I’m so tired, Adam, but I’m happy.\u00a0 <\/span>I can’t believe my baby is married, now.”<\/span><\/p>\n

“The dance Jason dedicated to you was quite a surprise tonight,” Adam slow danced with his wife to the\u00a0gentle soft\u00a0music.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jessica looked up at Adam, “Did you know about it?” She inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam shook his head, “No, I had no idea he was going to do it.\u00a0 <\/span>I think it was his way to show us how much you meant to him, especially in those few years when you were a single mom to him and Emily.”<\/span><\/p>\n

“Huh, I never thought of that, but you might be on to something there, Adam,” Jessica laid her head against Adam’s chest, and they continued to dance.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

Once inside their home, Jason and Brianna walked up the stairs to their bedroom where they changed their clothes.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

“Shall we have a quickie before we leave, Mrs. Cartwright?” Jason growled in his bride’s ear as he pulled her close to his bare chest. <\/span><\/p>\n

“Jason, no!” Brianna laughed.\u00a0 <\/span>“We have your sister and boyfriend waiting for us.\u00a0 <\/span>Besides, we have all night tonight, once we’re alone,” she winked at her husband.<\/span><\/p>\n

Brianna changed into a multi color short summer sundress, and Jason had already put on a pair of chino pants but finished dressing with a Ralph Lauren Polo button down cotton dress shirt. \u00a0Brianna felt\u00a0it was best to end their honeymoon in their bed instead of starting it there. <\/span><\/p>\n

When the couple exited\u00a0the house, Trey had pulled back around and was patiently waiting for them to return.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily had moved to the front seat, and when they came back out, Jason opened the backdoor and Brianna slid in followed by Jason.<\/span><\/p>\n

They arrived back at the reception tent, and the catering staff had handed out bubbles and birdseed to everyone to throw on the couple as they left to send them off on their honeymoon.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jason and Brianna got up on stage and once again thanked everyone for sharing their special day with them.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna had her bouquet, and she asked for all of the single ladies to come forward when they headed out, and she would toss the bouquet as they were getting in the car.\u00a0 <\/span>Trey had remained in Emily’s SUV as he would be driving them to their Reno hotel.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily wanted to be part of the bouquet toss so she told Trey she would join in on the fun and then come get in the car with them.<\/span><\/p>\n

As everyone lined up at the entrance of the tent, Emily and Jason thanked their parents for everything they had done for them in planning the wedding.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna grabbed her bouquet again as she had sat it down to give her families a hug and kiss. \u00a0When Pam was ready, they both ran through the rain of bubbles and birdseed.\u00a0 As<\/span>\u00a0the newlyweds reached the SUV, Brianna turned around and tossed the bouquet over her shoulder, and it landed right into the arms of Emily.\u00a0 <\/span>They both screamed as Brianna was not intentionally throwing it for Emily to catch but was happy her sister-in-law caught it none the less.\u00a0 After Pam snapped a picture of the two sisters-in-law, Emily\u00a0<\/span>handed the bouquet off to Jessica, and she leaped into the front seat, and Trey whisked the newly married Jason and Brianna Cartwright off to start their new life together.<\/span><\/p>\n

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<\/span><\/p>\n

After seeing the Nelson’s back to the main house and made sure they were settled in comfortably, Theresa and Jessica went to Brianna and Jason’s room to get Brianna’s dress and Jason’s tuxedo\u00a0and\u00a0Jessica\u00a0took them to be cleaned in the next morning.\u00a0 <\/span>Brianna’s dress also was be put into a professional storage box to keep it from discoloring or the material falling apart over time.\u00a0 <\/span>Once their clothes were placed in their respective garment bags, Adam put them in the SUV, and they headed back to their home on the Ponderosa.\u00a0 <\/span>Jillian had played so hard at the reception she fell asleep on the short ride to Jason and Brianna’s house in the back of Jessica’s SUV.\u00a0 <\/span>They arrived back at the ranch house shortly after that, and Adam took his youngest child into the house, up the stairs, and into her bedroom.\u00a0 <\/span>She woke up slightly when he sat her down on her bed to help her get undressed for bed.\u00a0 <\/span>She whined because all she wanted to do was to lay back down and go to sleep but Adam made her change out of her bridesmaid dress so it would not get torn overnight sleeping in it.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once she was changed into her pajamas, Adam tucked her in bed, and before he could turn out the light, she was rolled over and back to a deep sleep.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam joined Jessica in their room at the end of the hall.\u00a0 <\/span>When he arrived, he found Jessica laying cross-ways on their bed with her eyes wide open staring at the ceiling.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam walked over and looked at her, but she continued to stare at the ceiling not saying a word.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Are you awake or are you sleeping with your eyes wide open?” Adam inquired with a broad grin at how Jessica looked in her elegant long gown, no shoes on and hair a tangled mess.<\/span><\/p>\n

“I can’t move ever again.\u00a0 <\/span>I’m stuck like this for the rest of my life.\u00a0 <\/span>My feet hurt, my arms hurt, my hips hurt, the ends of my hair hurt,” Jessica said in a weak monotone voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Babe, first of all, you can’t lay like that all night, I’ll have nowhere to sleep.\u00a0 <\/span>Second, you can’t sleep in your dress.\u00a0 <\/span>I wouldn’t let Jillian sleep in hers, I won’t let you sleep in yours….”<\/span><\/p>\n

“And is there a third?” Jessica asked in the same monotone tired voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

“As a matter of fact, there’s….not.\u00a0 <\/span>Now let me get this dress off of you, and then I’ll help you lay down so you can go to sleep.”<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam leaned down and put his arms around Jessica’s body and gently helped her sit up.\u00a0 <\/span>She moaned when he started to move her.<\/span><\/p>\n

“If I knew you weren’t so tired, I think you might be trying to have your way with me, Mr. Cartwright,” Jessica’s voice remained weak and almost slurred from the exhaustion. <\/span><\/p>\n

“Somehow I think I could have my way with you tonight, but I’m exhausted to, so what fun would there be in that?” he asked as she fell forward and he unzipped her dress and gently laid her back down to slip it off her body. <\/span><\/p>\n

Once he had Jessica’s dress off her, he hung her dress up and left it hanging on the closet door.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam went back downstairs to the car to get his jacket and hung\u00a0it up with the rest of his tuxedo and put it with Jason’s tux and Brianna’s dress for Jessica to take to the cleaners the next morning to be professionally cleaned. <\/span><\/p>\n

When he returned, Jessica had not moved from the position she was in from when he removed her dress, but now she was asleep.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam went into the closet and removed the rest of his tuxedo and came out in just his boxers.\u00a0 <\/span>Jessica woke up slightly when he picked her up to put her on her side of the bed.\u00a0 <\/span>It was obvious she was ready for to sleep so he left her in her panties and bra and covered her up.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam went into the bathroom to shower before joining his wife in bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

When Adam came out of the shower and was putting on a fresh pair of boxers, his phone rang.\u00a0 <\/span>Emily had called to let him know they had dropped off Jason and Brianna, and she and Trey were on their way back to the house.\u00a0 <\/span>Since it would be very late by the time they got back in, Trey was staying the night and sleeping in Emily’s room, and Emily would climb in bed with Jillian.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Your mother and sister are already down for the count, and I’m ready to call it a night, too.\u00a0 <\/span>I’ll probably be asleep by the time you and Trey get back so, please be careful and we’ll see you tomorrow morning.\u00a0 <\/span>Love you, Princess.”<\/span><\/p>\n

“Love you more, Daddy, sleep well.”<\/span><\/p>\n

After he had hung up the phone, he climbed in bed next to Jessica.\u00a0 <\/span>Her hair was scattered all over her pillow, and her makeup had started to run down her face.\u00a0 <\/span>Adam thought about waking her up to remove her makeup but decided the sleep her body was craving was more important.\u00a0 <\/span>He gave her a kiss on the cheek and whispered in her ear, “You did good, Mrs. Cartwright.\u00a0 <\/span>Your son and his wife had a beautiful day and will remember it for the rest of their lives.”<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam rolled over on his side of the bed and laid on his back silently.\u00a0 <\/span>He thought back to when he and Jessica had only been married less than a year when she told him the good news she was pregnant with their first child.\u00a0 <\/span>He smiled when he thought about the day Jason was born, and the nurse placing him in his arms for the very first time. <\/span><\/p>\n

“Yeah, that was a great day,” Adam chuckled in a whisper to himself as he smiled reminiscing about becoming a father for the very first time. <\/span><\/p>\n

“I can’t wait for you and Brianna to experience the same feeling of being first-time parents, my son.\u00a0 <\/span>You’ll be a good one,” he said as he looked over at his wife sleeping soundly on her side with her arm thrown over her head.\u00a0 <\/span>“You had the best teacher, Jason.\u00a0 <\/span>I was just along for the ride.”<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam turned over and gently kissed Jessica on the cheek.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Goodnight, Babe, sweet dreams, and thank you.”\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

With that, Adam turned out the light and closed his eyes on another amazing chapter of his life.<\/span><\/p>\n

The End<\/i><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

THANK YOU FOR READING!<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\ud83d\ude42<\/span><\/p>\n

Tags:\u00a0 Adam Cartwright,\u00a0Family<\/p>\n

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<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Summary:\u00a0 Seasons of Change is a continuation story from Weekend Dad, a modern day Bonanza story featuring Adam.\u00a0 The story begins ten years after the end of Weekend Dad, and Jason is getting ready to head to college.\u00a0 The story will continue the four years Jason is in college until he graduates.\u00a0 There will be many references to the Weekend Dad story, so if you have read it before, you will understand them when you read them in this story.<\/p>\n

PG-13: \u00a0Very mild language and implied sexual situations\u00a0 (201,225 words)<\/p>\n

Weekend Dad Series, links to stories within the series are included.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":4115,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[7,23,4,41,3],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-13043","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-a-u","category-drama","category-humor","category-hurtcomfort","category-romance","wpcat-7-id","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-4-id","wpcat-41-id","wpcat-3-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":4732,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/frontporch.jpg?fit=439%2C305&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":27,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=27","url_meta":{"origin":13043,"position":0},"title":"Weekend Dad (by Adam’s Lover)","author":"Adams_Lover","date":"April 1, 2014","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 A modern day Adam Cartwright story, but all of the Cartwrights are also included throughout. 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It begins in 1908, two years later. Rating: T (97,221 words) Adam In The Outback Series, links to all the stories within the series included.","rel":"","context":"In "Alternate Universe"","block_context":{"text":"Alternate Universe","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=7"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/BestIsBestToBe.jpg?fit=373%2C246&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":13392,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=13392","url_meta":{"origin":13043,"position":2},"title":"When They Were Young (By Adams_lover)","author":"Adams_Lover","date":"October 22, 2016","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 This story is a modern day story with Adam as the featured character. \u00a0It is a prequel to \"Weekend Dad.\" PG-13: \u00a0Very mild language and implied sexual situations\u00a0 (113,407 words) Weekend Dad Series, links to stories within the series are included.","rel":"","context":"In "Alternate Universe"","block_context":{"text":"Alternate Universe","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=7"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/frontporch.jpg?fit=439%2C305&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":12168,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12168","url_meta":{"origin":13043,"position":3},"title":"If I’m Dreaming, Don’t Wake Me (by DebbieB)","author":"DebbieB","date":"February 1, 2002","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0Ever have trouble deciding what is real and what is not? Rated: \u00a0G (2,000 words) If I'm Dreaming Series, links to all stories of this series included.","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/11\/1-joe.jpg?fit=238%2C226&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":13189,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=13189","url_meta":{"origin":13043,"position":4},"title":"Looking Back Over the Years, He was Always There for Me (by mumu74)","author":"mumu74","date":"August 9, 2016","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0There comes a time when a man looks into the mirror of his own life. \u00a0What does he find? Memories of hard times, memories of his childhood, little moments full of fun and mischievous. \u00a0And as a man there are challenges which had to be faced with courage. 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