Note: The characters from the Dubois Chronicles are fictitious and are of my own creation. Gabrielle is from Xena Warrior Princess that is under StudiosUSA and Renaissance Studios. Smallville is the property of DC Comics and the WB.  Please feel free to send comments to dante0220@yahoo.com.


Prologue [Amazon Village, c. 83AD]

Gabrielle, Bard-Queen of the Amazons writes....

After the latter scrolls and adventures that we've been through, David and Angela have asked me to go back and record their early adventures as time permits. Here's the first one....


Chapter 1 (She Said...) [Columbia, SC]

Rowland Memorial Hospital hummed with activity. On this particular Friday, the doctors and nurses carried on with their rounds trying to get ready for the weekend.

Having completed her duties, Karen Montoya, the head RN, walked briskly to her car. The 5-3 brunette unlocked the door to her 1991 Dodge hatchback and slid in behind the wheel. Whew! Another week finished...finally. I wonder what Mike's got planned? Turning the key in the ignition, she let the car warm up for a minute.

Then, as if on cue, her cell phone went off. 

Speak of the devil. She laughed and answered it. "Hello?"

"Hi, Honey. How did everything go on the floor today?" her husband, Mike, inquired.

"Hectic as always. Y'know, the usual cardiac attacks, nervous breakdowns, etc. At least, we get a break for the weekend. What's on tap for tonight?" she responded, trying to add a bit of humor to her weary tone.

He chuckled. She's ready for a break, I can tell. "Well, I have a quiet cabin for two reserved up in the mountains this weekend. I figured a few bottles of champagne and some rich food...."

"Sounds divine." She smiled, relieved to be getting away from the rat race for a few days. "When do we leave?"

"Not until tomorrow. I have dinner going here. Angie's joining us for dinner. I hope you don't mind," he noted.

"No. Why would I?" she replied. "What's cooking?"

"I have a meatloaf in the oven if that's okay. Can you pick up some iced-tea mix on the way home?" he requested.

"Sure. See you soon!" she concluded. She shook her head and sighed. Boy, he's so thoughtful. I wish that things could have worked out so neatly between Dave and me. Her mind flashed back to the arguments between her and her ex-boyfriend, Dave Dubois and between the latter and Mike. However, one thing kept things in perspective. At graduation, they all had patched things up between dinner, a long talk the night before, and with Dave's promise. He had said that if there was anything they needed, they should call immediately.

Then her mind flashed to Angie. Angela Blackwell, one of the new temporary residents at her hospital, was actually Mike's ex-girlfriend. In an almost spooky fashion, their relationship shared many of the same things and types of ups and downs as the one between Karen and Dave. After they had broken up in their sophomore year. Afterwards, Angie had transferred to Arizona State.

Isn't it funny how life works? She mused as she drove to the convenience store. After picking up the drink mix, she headed straight home. After pulling into her assigned spot, she grabbed the bag with the desired item in it and clomped up the stairs.

Her husband stood waiting for her in the doorway to their apartment-a warm smile spread across his face. Mike stood about 6-3 and had black hair, dark eyes in addition to a medium build. "Hey there!" he greeted, embracing her and kissing her on the cheek.

Following him into the apartment, she inhaled the baking smells and her smile grew even wider. "Mmm...smells good! Hopefully, you're cooking for me as well as for your ex," she teased, shooting him a playful look.

"What do you think?" he asked, shaking his head even though he knew she was kidding.

"I thought so!" she laughed, heading for the bathroom and a welcome shower to steam away the week's concerns.


**** 

About 7 PM, the bell rang at the door. 

Karen got up from the chair where she had been sitting and watching the news. Looking through the peek hole, she saw Angie nervously smile and wave.

"Hi, Karen. Did I come at a bad time?" she asked shyly.

"No. Come right in! We're waiting for you. How did everything go today?" the hostess inquired courteously.

Angie smiled. "Okay, I guess. You know what it's like-the usual hectic pace."

Karen agreed, "Indeed, I do. Did you just get off?"

The guest nodded, looking at her scrubs and holding up a shopping bag. "Can I use the bathroom to freshen up and change...if that's okay that is?"

He looked up and indicated, "Sure. You know where it is."

"Thanks!" Angie called, the anxiousness still in her voice. While she needed to clean up, she really had wanted to go home first so that she wouldn't impose on her friends. Ah well. It'll only take a minute. Once inside the room, the pretty intern opened the bag and produced a burgundy blouse and a black pair of jeans. As she changed, she stared into the full-length mirror in front of her, taking in every part of her 5-5 body. Her big brown eyes stared at the reflection in front of her. Hair's out of place, she noted, brushing her chocolate brown locks. After washing her face, she felt almost human again. 

A minute later, she rejoined her friends. "Sorry to keep dinner waiting," she apologized.

"No problem. Sit...be merry," Karen advised. 

They all sat down at the oak table and dug into the meatloaf, mashed potatoes, salad and peas on it. The conversation floated around work topics, every day things and such matters.

Finally, Mike raised the question to Angie. I hope she doesn't take this the wrong way. "How's everything else going? You've been really quiet."

Angie winced and shrugged. "We-ell, other than work, everything's really slow."

"Why is that?" Karen inquired. "Granted, we've had it busier than usual, but have you been out lately? Sorry to pry, but..."

Angie waved her hand at them and shook her head. "It's okay." She sighed, "I have been going out and trying to meet people, but you know the bar scene and the clubs...it seems like every guy's a jerk. I wish I could meet someone nice and well...hold onto him this time. Sorry, Karen."

"That's all right. I know what you meant," Karen assured her, giving Mike's hand a squeeze even as she rubbed her guest's shoulder. "Aren't there any nice guys where you work?"

"Sure. But I don't want to get in trouble with his wife," she cracked, looking at her ex.

Karen rolled her eyes and giggled, "I meant other than Mike."

Angie shook her head.

Mike cleared his throat. The others on staff thought that Angie was a little too mousy for her own good and made a point to avoid her. Maybe if she had the right opportunity. "Did you see that sign for the residents' conference in San Antonio next month?"

She nodded glumly.

"So, why don't you go? Both Karen and I had to travel to run into each other," he continued, hugging his wife.

Karen grinned and added, "Yes. If nothing else, it'll be a nice change of scenery for you and I hear the Riverwalk is beautiful."

Angie considered this for a moment before nodding. "You could be right. Okay! I'll go...if it'll make you two happy."

Chapter 2 (He Said)

[Scituate, MA]

Dave stared into space out in front of the Alvarez household. In terms of academic pursuits, he managed to get through his undergraduate and the library school programs at the University of Arizona. In addition, he had just wrapped up his Ph D. in medieval history only two months earlier. With all of these accomplishments, he stood in prime shape to get a job.

However, his social life left a lot to be desired. Other than his outings to sporting events, things were moribund. After his breakup with Karen Alvarez, he had drifted in and out of several unsuccessful relationships.

I guess I'm lucky that Karen's parents still allow me into the house, he mused, sipping on his coffee.

During this period of social decline for him, her family and their friends kept his spirits up, trying to intercede on several occasions, but without much luck. 

"Hey, Crash! Throw the ball!" Rick Duke, his former college classmate, bellowed at him.

Dave stirred himself back to reality and threw a pea at him. "Sorry. I was just thinking."

Brooding, you mean. "Hey, what did you think of that party last night?" Rick asked, snapping the ball out of the air with a fluid motion of his glove.

Dave's mind flashed back to the previous evening. His friends had taken him along to the "Iron Horse", the latest club to open on the Boston night scene full of jostling bodies and flashing strobe lights. For that evening, his feet came to life, moving instinctually to the music. In fact, he wrapped himself up in the beat much as a caterpillar does in its cocoon.

His friends sat amazed and happy to watch him like this, hoping that he would be like this more often, and promising themselves that they would get him back there again.

"It was fun." Dave shrugged while taking the next throw.

Rick stared into his eyes. "You still look good on the floor, but I can tell that you-know-who is still on your mind."

"How?" Dave asked, a puzzled look on his face.

"Well, even though you were out on the floor for several slow dances, you weren't paying attention. Do you know how many girls asked you on the floor last night?"

Dave shook his head, but decided to humor his friend. "No...how many?"

"Try four of them," Charles Alvarez, Karen's brother, interjected as he walked up behind them. "You know, Dave, you don't give yourself enough credit."

Dave sighed. Here comes the lecture again. Within his head, the old headache reared up again. "Like they think I'm worth it."

Charles and Rick exchanged tired looks before the latter rolled his eyes, grabbed Dave and shook him. "That's it! Look, Dave, will you listen to us?"

Dave shook, trying to break the other's grip. Once again, he felt his head going numb as it did often since the trip to Smallville a decade before. Finally, he freed himself and exclaimed, "Damn it! I come out here to pitch and burn off some steam but now everyone's telling me what to do! I'm going inside! I don't need this!"

"Oh no you don't!" Charles stated as he grabbed the other's arm. "We've been letting you brood too long and not encourage you to try something new."

"So, what should I do, Genius?" Dave inquired nervously, feeling his head pounding.

"For one thing, stop mourning over Karen. There are other girls out there," Rick noted.

"I've never known you to quit," Charles continued. "Take a chance. You might surprise yourself." A smile formed on his face. 

"You think...I can do it?" Dave queried skeptically.

"As the saying goes, 'Do or Do not. There is no try'," Rick advised.

Charles jumped right in, not giving his friend an opening to leave. "That's right! Hey, you have got to do something. Otherwise, the family's going to go insane along with you."

Dave scratched his head, considering the others' advice. "I could take a trip. The library conference is in San Antonio next month before I have to head back to Tucson."

His friends nodded and replied in unison, "There's the ticket!"


Chapter 3 [San Antonio, TX]

Dave loved San Antonio from the moment he got off the plane. He enjoyed the scenery and being reunited with his classmates from the library school. As he had a full agenda, the time flew by. The days held library meetings. At night, he and his friends hit the clubs on the Riverwalk.

Meanwhile Angie hadn't been faring as well at the Residents' conference. As with Dave, meetings and interviews filled her days. However, her luck remained true to form as her efforts to have fun in the clubs went less than splendidly. As a result, she hung out mostly by herself.

One day, her morning session got out early. I actually have time for lunch. Will wonders never cease? Crossing the street from the convention center, she walked into McDonald's and ordered a grilled chicken sandwich and an iced tea. Outside, she saw the lunch crowd looming. Can't a girl get any privacy? I'd best get a seat before the swarm hits. Getting her lunch, she retreated to the corner for some privacy. Taking out her notebook and a copy of her Merck Manual, she checked her notes from the previous session.

****

Dave stood in the middle of that crowd. Looking around, he saw that every seat was soon taken. I could go to Burger King, but it'll be just as bad there. No, best to stick it out here. For some reason, he felt he was supposed to be there. What now? The morning session at the Convention Center had left a lot to be desired since nobody had wanted to interview him and the meeting was boring to say the least. My classmates are getting the offers and I'm getting squat. 

Ordering a chicken salad with fries, he made his way around the restaurant, looking for a place to sit, but nothing was open. Then he saw an empty seat at a table occupied by a woman engrossed in a book. While he couldn't see her face, he knew she was a medical person judging from the Merck Manual. Oh well, here goes.... "Excuse me, is this seat taken?"

Angie shook her head from behind her book. Oh great, I can't even get privacy when my work needs doing. Oh well, I might as well let him sit down considering that the restaurant's swamped. "Sure," she agreed, peering over the top of her book and allowing her eyes to bug out at the man standing there, smiling warmly at her and actually asking her a question politely. I'm dreaming, right? Yet, for some reason, she knew he had seen his face before.

Dave was equally in awe of the attractive woman in front of him for some reason. While she was with the medical crowd with whom the librarians shared the convention center, this woman gave him a different feeling. Brains and beauty, that's something you don't run into every day. 

She felt her nerves flaring but kept her composure enough to ask. "You are going to sit, aren't you?"

"Uh yeah," he agreed and giggled in spite of himself. Really smooth, Dave. "Excuse me."

What did I say now? "What's so funny?" she asked.

"Nothing...private joke. Thank you though for letting me sit here." He smiled at her.

"You're welcome and thanks by the way," she replied more openly than she might have done otherwise.

"For what?" he asked while mixing the dressing into his salad. "You don't mind if I eat while we talk, do you?"

"No. That's what we're here for," she cracked, letting her eyes shine into his. What is it about him? There's something about him, but I can't figure out what. "So, do you have a name?"

"David Dubois, but my friends call me Dave," he introduced himself.

"Angela...Blackwell. My friends...call me Angie," she stammered anxiously.

"Are you from here or are you in San Antonio on business?" he wondered, eating a french fry.

"I'm here at the Residents' conference. And you?" 

"ALA-excuse me-the librarians meetings," he explained. "You know, try to find a job, go to some meetings and see some sights. I take it you're doing the same."

Angie looked at him and shrugged. "Yeah, I guess I'm in that boat too. Tell me a little about yourself if it's okay."

"That's okay. I'm originally from Massachusetts but went to school in Arizona," he replied, eating another fry.

"Where in Arizona?"

"U of A," he replied with a smile. "And you?"

"Well, we have a lot in common. I'm also from the Northeast and went to school in Arizona. I started at U of A but ended up at ASU. I went to Medical School at Columbia. Right now, I'm looking for a place to do my residency at," she explained. 

Then some mayonnaise oozed out of her sandwich and plopped into her lap.

Angie blushed self-consciously. Great. Now this guy thinks I'm the biggest klutz in the history of the universe.

He cleared his throat and dipping a napkin in his cup of water before handing it to her. "Don't worry about it. It happens to me all of the time."

She accepted it, asking, "What's this?"

"Something to wipe your clothes off with," he noted, giving her another smile.

"And this does happen to you?" she asked, feeling her mood brighten a bit as she wiped her skirt off. "Thank you."

"Yup. Nobody's perfect," he advised her. "So when's your next meeting?"

"1PM...oh gosh!" she realized, looking at her watch. "I'm late! Sorry I have to run...but well..."

"That's okay. Good luck to you, Angie," he expressed. "Thanks for sharing your lunch."

"Thanks, Dave. You too," she said nervously. "Bye!" She bolted from the restaurant.

As he watched her leave, he noticed that she forgot her notebook and book. "Oh..." Noticing she was gone, he sighed and mused to himself, Great. A souvenir. 

Little did he suspect that he would see her again sooner than either of them thought.


Chapter 4

On the way back to the ALA Placement Center, Dave stopped by the Information Desk for the Residents' conference, hoping to find somewhere safe to leave Angie's things. 

The receptionist, a willowy blond, looked up at him and asked, "Can I help you? ALA? You're on the wrong end of the hall, aren't you?"

He smiled patiently. "Yes, but one of your attendees left these items at the McDonald's and I was hoping that you could direct me to the Lost and Found."

"For that, you're in the right place," she indicated positively. "I'll make sure these things stay safe. Whose are these?"

"Angela Blackwell," he noted, scribbling a note. "Can you put this with them please?"

"Okay. I'll make sure she gets them," the receptionist indicated.

"Thank you," he concluded as he headed back across the area for the ALA area. The afternoon went well all things considered. Finally, he left the center and headed over to the Astoria Hotel for the alumni dinner.

****

After her 1PM meeting, Angie realized that her book and notebook were missing. "Oh gosh!" she exclaimed. "Where could they be?"

The lady next to her asked, "Did you lose something?" After Angie nodded, she advised, "There's a Lost and Found at the Information Desk. Why don't you try there?"

"I'll do that. Thank you," Angie expressed as she left the area heading for the desk. After waiting her turn in line, she finally stood in front of the receptionist.

"Can I help you?" the receptionist asked.

"Yes. I lost a book and a notebook....I...uh...was wondering if anyone...turned them in?" Angie explained nervously, looking around in embarrassment.

"Okay, Miss, what's your name?" 

"Angela Blackwell," Angie replied, showing her badge with a trembling hand.

The receptionist rummaged through the lost and found box and smiled. "Why yes! They're right here." She handed the items to the nervous attendee.

"How?" Angie stammered.

"A nice gentleman dropped them off on the way to the library meetings, I believe," the blonde replied.

Dave? "Thank you so much!" she expressed.

"Have a nice day," the receptionist concluded.

After reaching the nearest bench, she inspected the items to make sure everything was there. As she did, a piece of paper fluttered out. What's that? She thought, picking it up and reading it. 

It said: "Angie: You forgot these items at the restaurant. I hope they get back to you okay. Thanks again for the best lunch conversation in quite a while. Dave"

She laughed ruefully to herself. Well, looks like my initial reading of him was right. Too bad I probably won't see him again. Oh well, better a moment of happiness than none at all. With that, she went back to her room and changed for a meal with her friends from medical school.

About halfway through the evening, her friend, Jeannie, asked, "So, Angie, any luck with the guys yet?"

"Not really," Angie informed them.

"Not even a nibble?" Miranda, her other friend, inquired.

"Well, there was this guy this afternoon. We talked for about an hour over lunch. He was different than the other guys. He was polite and charming. I left my books there accidentally and he returned them," Angie sighed.

The others smiled warmly, hoping that this would be a lead for their friend. "Will you see him again?" they asked.

"Probably not," Angie lamented. "San Antonio's a big place." That thought depressed her badly. "Excuse me, I'll see you both later." With that, she hurried out the door heading for the Riverwalk, leaving her friends shaking their heads.

For hours, she walked along the riverside area and looked at the cafes. Walking onto the bridge, she gazed on the stars glistening in the night sky.

I wish I could find him, she moped. With that, her eyes began to water.

****

After a fairly boring time (and a lousy spread on the buffet table) at the reception, Dave excused himself and headed out of the hotel. "I need some air," he told the others as he did so.

Tony Edwards, one of his classmates, joked, "I bet he's got some hot date. Have fun, Dubois!" 

The others laughed derisively.

Dave growled, feeling his head starting to go numb again. I won't go through this again. Taking a deep breath, he forced himself to relax and forget about the jabbing in the banquet room. There. Walking east, he headed for the Riverwalk, looking at the sky as he did so. As he stepped onto the bridge, he looked around and mused about the lunch. If they could have seen me this afternoon, those twits would shut up. He shook his head, wondering if he would see her again. It's corny, but... He took out a new penny and held it up. It shone and glistened in the moonlight, the soft sheen reflecting off of the copper.

Star light, star bright, first star I see tonight...I wish I may...well...see her tonight. Shit, I can't even get it right, he groused to himself. Might as well try it anyway. He dropped the penny into the water, watching it sink into the darkness below.

At that moment, he heard someone crying nearby. The pain he felt tore into him, stirring up the emotions within him as well. Calm yourself, Dave. He turned to see Angie leaning over the bridge, looking really depressed. "Thank you," he mouthed to the sky and headed over in her direction.

Walking over to her, he tapped her shoulder and asked, "Penny for your thoughts, Angie?"

Angie, half-surprised, turned around slowly. "Now what? Yes? I..." Then, she saw him standing there, his eyes shining at her. "OH WOW! It's you!"

He looked at her with surprise. She actually wants to see me. A girl wants to see me. This is a new one. "Yes, I do believe it is me," he joked, trying to cover his nerves as he gave her his handkerchief. "C'mon, the tears don't become you."

"Thanks," she sniffled and wiped her face. Then she smiled and asked, "Better?"

A big grin spread across his face as the butterflies jiggled around in his stomach. "Much. Listen, do you have any plans for the evening?"

"No, why?" she asked cautiously.

"I was wondering if you would like to split a sundae or a Coke with me and continue our conversation from this afternoon," he offered.

She sighed and felt her misgivings rear up again. Geez. Even when a nice guy asks, I still feel skittish. Still, I barely know him. "Dave, I'm sorry, but...well...I have..."

He took a deep breath, sensing that she had issues with this type of thing. I can't walk away now. "You've had bad experiences with other guys, right? Don't worry, my grandmother taught me how to treat a lady," I stated. His eyes pleaded with hers as he requested, "Give me a chance?"

For the second time, Angie felt for some reason that she could trust him. That he wouldn't hurt her. Why not? I can always leave if something happens. "Okay. Lead on, MacDuff!"

He smiled and led her toward the square. 

They ended up at Andy's Ice Cream Emporium about an hour later. There, they split the biggest, gooiest banana split known to man or so they would've swore. The conversation, as in the McDonald's, was pleasant.

"Dave, I'm sorry for not trusting you before," she apologized.

"That's okay. Believe me, my love life hasn't been that great either," he assured her.

She looked him over again. He's handsome, smart, nice, and polite. Who wouldn't want to go out with him? "Sorry, I can't believe that. I can't...well...imagine a girl...not liking you," she stammered, allowing the words to hang in the air as she stared deeply into his brown eyes. "Tell me and you don't have to answer if you don't want to-have you ever loved someone so deeply that it hurt?"

For two minutes, he sat quietly, surfing the waves of despair flaring inside of him. 

"Dave, it's okay," she told him.

"No...it's fine. Yes, I loved someone. I loved her so much that I traveled clear across the country to be with her only to find her with someone else...the guy she married," he replied somberly as his eyes began to water. "Sorry."

She offered him a tissue. "Now it's my turn."

"Thanks," he sniffled. "Some guy, huh? Now you know my weakness. I'm a wimp."

She shook her head. "I've got a secret for you, Dave. Women like sensitive guys. That's okay. Thanks for trusting me."

"You're welcome. How about you?" he asked, managing a smile for her benefit.

"Yes, like you, I had a great relationship with a guy named Mike. Then we broke up. Right after that, he met and married a girl. That was quite some time ago," she told him.

For some reason, that story seemed familiar to him. Nah, it couldn't be. 

"But to the present," Angie continued, putting her chin in her right hand and looking at him. "What are your interests?"

"Oh, baseball, football, hockey..." he started.

She broke out laughing. "Yeah. You are a guy all right!"

"Hey, no fair interrupting me!" he protested but in a bantering tone. "I also like History, literature, dancing, and drama. How about you?"

She smiled warmly. He's something else. Angie, keep your composure. What is it with this guy? "Most of the stuff you mentioned. Well, I play softball with the girls."

"And I play softball too. Your point?" he wondered.

"Point taken. Thanks, Dave. What type of literature are you into?"

"Mostly medieval and early modern. My library classmates called my reading 'The Stuff', but I love the Romantics too-Shelley, Byron, Keats, and Longfellow. Have you read Evangeline? It's my favorite modern piece," he told her.

"Oh yes!" she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling off of the moonlight pouring through the window to her left. "Nice. I wouldn't call it 'modern', but for the musty Medievalist, I suppose...." She giggled.

He sighed and shook his head. "Oh that's cute." A playful smirk crossed his face. "Tell me, do you make fun of all the guys you're with, Miss Blackwell?"

"No," she grinned, sipping on her Diet Coke. "Just the ones I like. You know I'm kidding, right?"

Dave just stared off into space, trying to get her goat.

"Right?" she reiterated, putting her hands on her hips and staring at him.

He fumbled with the menu, his face betraying the barest hint of a sarcastic smirk. 

"RIGHT?"

"Oh, were you talking to me?" he inquired, his brow arching and a snicker escaping his lips. 

"Argh! Men!" she groused yet she too smiled at him.

For the rest of the evening, they spoke in this fashion. Finally, at the stroke of midnight, they started back for her hotel.

At the door, he said good night.

"Dave, thank you for a wonderful evening," she expressed.

"The pleasure was mine, Angie, and thank you," he replied. "I hope you have a pleasant trip back to South Carolina tomorrow and good luck."

"Have a safe trip back to Arizona," she replied, smiling warmly at him. "Thanks again! Good night!" With that, she stepped into the hotel room and shut the door.

Both people spent the evening hoping somehow to see the other again, but dismissing the thought of doing so. Despite that, they had no idea what Fate held in store for them. No idea at all.


Chapter 5 [Columbia, SC]

After returning home, Angie felt much better about herself. She smiled and whistled while at work. Everyone marveled at her new outlook and more sociable personality. 

Finally, one night at dinner, the truth came out and the ironies began to sink in.

"So, Angie," Mike inquired. "You're a lot better since San Antonio. Did you meet someone out there?"

Angie flushed pink. "Why yes...I did meet a really nice librarian."

Karen grinned. "Librarian, huh? So what was he like?"

"He was really polite and caring. Let's see he was about four to five inches taller than you, Karen. He had dark brown hair and was heavy but not that much so. His interests were varied between sports and the humanities. He was very sensitive," Angie started.

Karen looked at her. There's something familiar about this guy. "Where did this guy go to school?"

"He went to U of A just like we did."

"Is there anything else?" he inquired with growing interest, not seeing the same connection.

"Yes. He mentioned a previous love and going clear across the country to be with her...only to find her with someone else. Poor guy," the intern recounted.

By now, the story had Karen intrigued. "And where did he say he was from?"

"Massachusetts, I think. What was his first name? Dave, I think." Angie shrugged. "I lost a book down there and he returned it along with this note," she added, handing her the note. "I wish that I could see him again."

Meantime, her hostess read the note and her eyes bugged out. I don't believe it. "Yes. I hope so too."

He looked at his wife. "Honey?"

"Yes, Karen, are you okay? You look as though you've seen a ghost," Angie noted.

Karen collected herself. "No, it was nothing," she assured them and gave Mike an 'I'll tell you later' look.

"Well, if I can have the note, I'll be going. It's getting late," Angie suggested and whistled happily. "Oh and thanks for suggesting the trip. Good night!" she added enthusiastically. She hopped down the stairs, got in the car and sped away.

Once she was gone, Mike turned back to Karen and watched her quake with laughter. "Now what? Honey, I missed the joke."

She sighed. "Yeah, I guess you would have missed it." She walked over to the bookcase and pulled her APRHS yearbook. "Tell me," she suggested. "Does this handwriting look familiar?" She opened it to the page with signatures on it.

Mike looked at the sample. "Yes? And?"

"This one's the same as the note's handwriting," she indicated.

He gaped. "You can't be serious! Yes...I...Karen, do you think that...?" he gasped in surprise.

"Could it be anything else? You know, I always felt guilty about Dave's reaction to our relationship. I should have been more honest with him in the beginning. Now, we may have a way to let ourselves off of the hook," she explained. "At least, Dave and Angie have a collective spark."

He concurred, "They do all right if Angie's right. Too bad we can't get them back together again."

She smiled and suggested mysteriously, "But I'm going to get to the bottom of this right now." She started to dial her parents' number.

Caroline answered, "Hello?"

"Hi, Sis. How are you?" Karen cheerily replied.

"Very well, thanks!" her sister replied, a bit of concern in his voice. "I trust that Mike's okay?"

Karen laughed, "Yes! Yes! Yes! Everything's as great as it has been in years. Tell me, has anyone talked to Dave lately?"

Caroline replied eagerly, "Oh yes! He's still in Tucson and will be until April 1. He also had a lot of fun in Texas. He said that he met someone down there."

Karen smiled even more and gave Mike the thumbs-up sign. "Did he mention a name?"

"Angie, I think. Why do you know this person?" Caroline asked confusedly. "What's so funny?"

"Does the name 'Angie Blackwell' ring a bell?" 

"Why isn't that the new temporary intern and Mike's ex? No way!" Caroline stammered.

"Uh huh," Karen giggled.

"This is wild! Well, we have to do something to get them together!" Caroline told her adamantly.

"My intentions exactly," Karen suggested, "Tell me, what are you doing over Memorial Day weekend?"

"Well, Daddy was planning to head for the restaurant at the shore the following weekend. Why?" Caroline asked.

"Well, Mike and I planned a long weekend and I hoped to come up and see everyone. I think that we might have an extra passenger with us...if you know what I mean," Karen explained with the familiar positive gleam in her eye.

"Sounds great! Believe me, for this-I can get Daddy to push his plans up a week. Do you want Rick in on this too?"

"You bet and Samantha too!" Karen exclaimed. "But let me call Rick, all right? See ya."

"Sure. I'll talk to you soon," she concluded, hanging up.

Only seconds later, Karen called Rick. "Hello, Rick?"

"Hi, Karen. How are you?"

"I'm okay. How's Dave doing?" she asked.

"I haven't seen him this happy since he was going ga-ga over you. In fact, if I didn't know better...." He explained.

"Know better about what?" she inquired.

"Oh, I would think that you're behind this," he suggested.

"Well in a manner of speaking...."

"I KNEW IT!" he laughed. "Sam was willing to bet $20 on it. So do you know this girl?"

"Yes, her name's Angie. She's a temporary intern down here and Mike's ex-girlfriend," she noted.

"And let me guess-the story between them is really similar to the one between you and Dave, right? Man, this is too corny! Not even a soap opera would take this script," he cracked.

"Now, now-don't crack on something that's working, Rick. Actually, Mike and I talked her into going to the Residents' meeting and well, things worked out."

"Did you have something in mind to make amends?" he laughed.

"Rick! You know better than to ask that! Of course, I still feel badly about that. Let's see if we can make a miracle for them both. All right?"

"Sounds good. Do you have the details worked out?" he asked.

"Well, what would you think about meeting for dinner at that place in Westbrook that Dave likes? Believe me, for this-Frank Landers will give me details. Get Dave to the beach for the day and then meet us at the restaurant for dinner. Sounds good?" she inquired.

"What does Mike think of this arrangement?" he asked.

"If it will get those two off of our backs and paying attention to each other, it'll be worth it," Mike laughed in the background. "It's a good plan. Have your cameras ready."

"Don't you know it!" Rick stated. "Sam has the weekend off and her boyfriend will be out of town. She won't miss this for the world."

"When exactly does Dave get in?" she wondered.

"April Fools Day," he replied. "I'm picking him up at the airport. Well, I gotta go. Does Caroline know? Other than her, it's our secret."

"Yes. But talk to her, all right? Take care," she concluded.

"Bye!" he concluded, hanging up.

Things were really moving at that point.


Chapter 6
[Tucson]

In the weeks and months following the San Antonio trip, Dave felt really good about things. Despite the lack of responses to the resumes, he held his own, keeping his spirits up. He audited a couple of classes and worked part time to make the time pass. The meeting with Angie also buoyed his spirits. He had more confidence about everything, a fact that his cohorts readily noticed.

Dr. Coltrane, the Middle Eastern history professor, was especially happy after she surmised the cause of Dave's new state of affairs. Just before he left, she called him into the office and closed the door. "How are you doing?" she queried.

"Never better," he half-fibbed.

She looked him square in the eye. He had been in her classes off and on for much of the past decade. During that time, she had figured him out pretty well. "Yeah right," she slurred sarcastically. "What happens now?"

He shrugged. "I don't know. I guess I go back to Scituate and wait. I heard that they're hiring for the local public library so I could work temporarily there for a while at least until something opens up."

She nodded. "That sounds good. I want to thank you, David, for your enthusiasm in my classes and for the guest lectures. I was curious: have you met someone?"

"Why do you ask?"

"Oh, your attitude has improved recently...since San Antonio, in fact. I think it's good. Keep it up. Can you stay in touch with the lady in question? Remember last semester with Elaine?" she stated.

"How could I forget?" he sighed.

"Go after this opportunity," she asserted. "Have a life while you're waiting for that job. It will come. Well, I'll get the Shajara project to you. Good luck!" They shook hands and he left the office.

Right outside of the building, the shuttle waited to take him to Phoenix. "Bye, Tucson!" he said dejectedly. 

The shuttle headed north across the desert with the buttes streaking past and the brown sand calling to him, begging him to stay. His memories of the past ten years flickered across his consciousness or at least, bits and pieces of them did. 

Let's hope the good times are just starting. 

Just then, the shuttle pulled up in front of Sky Harbor Airport's Departures' terminal. Dave walked in and up to the counter. After checking in and leaving his bags with the agents, he made his way through the terminal. Eventually, he found the gate and settled in to wait for his flight, which left several hours later.

Bye, Arizona, he mused, waving farewell to the region he loved so much. Once the landscape had disappeared beneath the thick evening clouds, he drifted off to sleep.

****

About 7AM, a stewardess shook him awake. "Dr. Dubois?"

"Huh?" he muttered sleepily. "Are we there yet?"

"Yes, Sir. We just arrived in Boston. Time to get off. Sorry," she apologized.

He nodded and stretched. Seeing that they were indeed at Logan, he grabbed his carry-ons and departed the aircraft. Walking up the ramp, he entered the concourse and saw Rick waiting for him just inside the waiting area. "Hey!"

"How's it goin', Dave?" he wondered, shaking his friend's hand. "Did you bring that Tucson warmth back with you?"

Dave shook his head. "Apparently not. Don't worry. Spring's not far off. So how's the old town doing?" he asked as they walked to baggage claim.

"Everyone in Scituate is great and waiting for you to get back. Look at you-tanned, brains primed for that job," Rick cracked.

As luck would have it, his bags came through the carousel just as they approached. Dave grabbed them as soon as they came into reach. "All set. Let's go."

With that, they made their way to the parking lot where Rick's old BMW was parked. 

He still has his old reliable set of wheels. The more things change the more they stay the same, Dave thought.

They headed out onto I-95 and burned down toward home. Shortly thereafter, they streaked past the familiar houses of the old neighborhood.

As Dave stepped out of the car, he looked around and smiled. It's good to be home again.

****

[Almost two months later]

Dave's temporary position at the public library took up the intervening time between his arrival and that point. Most days, he performed most of the tasks within the facility, gaining valuable experience in the process.

His free time was split between researching and playing catch with Charles in the front yard. One such day, the latter wanted to confirm his sisters' assumptions about him and Angie. "You seem really chipper, Slam? What's going on?" he inquired, squatting into his familiar catching position and flashing some signs with his fingers.

"Nothing much," Dave laughed, thinking of the letter he was writing to Angie. With luck, it would be finished on that evening. He went into his delivery and fired a slider into the other's glove.

"Are you sure?" I haven't seen you like this in quite a while," the younger man asked curiously, throwing the ball back. "You know that nobody except for my sister could put you into such a good mood. Word has it that you might have met someone."

"The word might be right," Dave replied, releasing a fastball at him and hitting the glove again. "You never know. Come on, your Mom's going to have dinner ready in a bit. Let's go."

Charles shook his hand. It stung from the break on his friend's pitches. Only Karen could get him to throw like that. They have to be right. This will be so worth it to get them together. "Hey, Dave? Sam and I are going to Hammonasett tomorrow. Wanna join us?"

Dave turned and agreed, "Sure, but I drive the Subaru. I need the highway practice."

With that, they got into the yellow hatchback and took off for the Alvarez household.


Chapter 7

Dave bounced out of bed early the next morning and threw his clothes on. Usually, beach trips didn't excite him all that much. He was never one to like lying in the sun all day doing nothing. However for some reason, an electric charge ran up and down his spine. Why is this any different? What's waiting for us down there? Somehow, he had the feeling that this day would change everything. Cut it out. It's just a trip to the beach and maybe some good fish afterwards. Checking his duffel bag, he saw that his change of clothes, blanket, and towels were there. Heading downstairs, he took the cooler out of the garage and brought it into the kitchen. Opening the refrigerator, he took out the icy cold bottles of iced tea and Fresca and placed them in the traveling container for Sam and himself. Finally, after placing the cooler in the Subaru's trunk, he pulled out of the driveway. 

Waiting for him, Rick and Sam sat in his BMW. "Ready, Dave?"

This seems like our college days, Dave mused. "You have your soda and stuff?"

"Yeah. And you?" he asked.

"Right here. Sam, the diet stuff's with me," Dave notified them.

"Thanks, Dave," Sam Henderson, a striking redhead, replied.

The librarian waved to them as he gunned the motor and took off for the interstate. The two car convoy followed I-95 south through Rhode Island and southeastern Connecticut. Finally in Madison, CT, we exited the freeway and headed for the beach.

Unlike its more popular counterpart two hours up the highway, Hammonaset had smaller waves and tended to be quieter. The three friends took advantage of that quality to reminisce about old times and play some catch in their clear area. All in all, they had a great day.

Finally about 5:15 PM, Rick asked, "Where did you want to eat? Sam and I were thinking of going to Westbrook."

Dave stared weirdly at him. This is almost too convenient. Okay, what's going on? "Sure. My favorite fish place sounds about right. Let's go," he agreed, packing up his gear and helping them to get their stuff back to the parking lot.

When everyone had returned to their cars, she inquired, "Rick, do you think he knows?"

He nodded. "He knows something's up, but we'll have this surprise sprung soon enough."

"Gosh, I hope this works!" she worried. "Leave it to Dave to figure out what's going on ahead of time. Let's hope Karen's plan works."

"Yes. It would be nice to see him with someone else for a change," he agreed, pulling out after the Subaru and heading straight over to the restaurant.  Let's hope Karen's plan works, he thought nervously, looking at his watch. 5 to 6, almost time.

****

[Six hours earlier]

The Montoyas' van headed north on I-95 passing through Philadelphia.

In the back seat, Angie sat in the back seat and stared into space. I hope this job works out. A hospital in Fall River had offered her a residency position. Should I take it? While she wanted to return to the Northeast, she wasn't sure about the job. Oh well, meeting Karen's family will be nice enough if nothing else. "So when do we get in?" she asked.

Karen replied, turning to face her. "Let's see-We're coming up for 10. We'll be stopping for dinner about 5:30 or so. We'll probably get to the house about 9 or so. What do you think, Mike?"

"Sounds about right," he concurred. "Angie, why don't you try to take a nap or listen to some music? It might make the time go by faster."

The prospective resident yawned. "You're probably right. Okay." She stretched out on the seat and fell asleep.

Noting the action, Karen leaned close to him and whispered, "Good! She's out. When we spring our surprise, she'll need all of her energy. Do you think she suspects?"

He shook his head and rubbed his arm. "We'll be there soon enough if Frank's directions from that phone call last night are on the mark."

The rest of the drive passed uneventfully and right at 5:30, the van pulled into the parking lot of Lenny's Fish & Grill.

"Angie, we're here," Karen called to their passenger.

The intern stirred and looked around. Why do I have this feeling that things are going to be really different? I don't know why but best to play along. Oh well, I'm famished and a good meal is what I need. Climbing out of the vehicle, she stretched and remarked, "It feels good to walk around a bit."

Just then, a blue Nissan pulled in right next to them and honked its horn.

Angie looked at it and when she saw the people inside, she gasped, "Frank Landers and Jolene Rizzo! Oh gosh, how are you both?"

"Pretty good," Jolene replied pleasantly. "You do know that Frank and I are married now, right?"

"Well, no I didn't, but you two were such good friends at Columbia that I'm not surprised," she noted, a bit of the nerves and shyness surfacing yet again.

Frank grinned. "She's still my best friend."

"Well, Frank. Looks like married life agrees with you," Karen remarked.

"It does, Karen. We have a son, Joseph, and everything's going all right," he replied, taking out a picture of his two-year-old boy. Then, he turned to Mike and introduced himself, "Mike Montoya, right? Frank Landers, pleased to meet you. Jolene, these are Mike and Karen Montoya. Guys, my wife, Jolene Landers."

Mike smiled and shook his hand. "Pleased to meet you both as well."

Jolene nodded. "Same here. Karen, it's nice to meet you at last. Certain friends of ours speak very highly of you even after all of these years."

Karen managed a wistful smile. He still thinks of me even after all of this time. Of course he does, Karen. At least, he doesn't hate me. Hopefully after tonight, our friendship will be back on an even more solid footing and he'll have a reason to move on with his life.

Mike glanced at his wife. She's thinking about Dave again. I really hope this works out for us all. Best to get everyone inside before they see us. "Wow. Look at the time! Let's go eat!"

They entered the restaurant and looked around at the cottage-like atmosphere. Most of the restaurant seats were full. However in a side room, a table elegantly set for eight people sat reserved. 

Angie flushed. Wow. What's the special occasion? "This is nice, Karen," she managed to say.

"Well, old friends don't get together that often. Tonight, we're going to be meeting some of my friends from my neighborhood. Isn't that reason enough?" the nurse explained.

Angie blushed shyly. "I guess you're right. It'll be nice to meet some more people."

"Relax. You'll be fine," Karen assured her, trying to soothe her friend's nerves.

The intern eased herself into her chair. "This is nice, guys. This is almost like that café in San Antonio." I wish that a certain someone were here. Oh well, Angie, maybe you'll meet someone else. Still, I can hope, can't I?

Karen looked around the room as the clock struck 6 PM. Then, she saw Sam and Rick enter the area. 

"Hey, guys!" he greeted. "Nice set up! Frank, how's it going? Are you a doctor yet?" he asked.

"Almost," Frank replied, shaking his hand. "Two more years of residency to go. How's the band going?"

"Great! We play next week," Rick replied. "You remember Sam, right?"

"Yes. Sam, it's been too long," Frank told her while shaking her hand.

"Everything going well?" she asked.

"Never better. Meet Jolene, my wife. Jolene, Rick and Sam," Frank introduced.

His wife smiled. "Pleased to meet you both."

Then Rick turned to Karen. "Don't you think that you and Angie should check on our other amigo?"

Karen nodded and flushed. "Yes. C'mon, Angie."

Why didn't he or she just walk in with the others? "Okay. I guess that's all right," Angie agreed and followed her friend out the door and into the lobby.

**** 

Meanwhile, Dave sat in the lobby waiting for Rick to tell him the table was ready. What could be keeping them? He heard loud laughter echoing from within the dining area. "Hmmm," he mused aloud. Then, he swore that he saw Karen Montoya around the corner. Nah. Come on, Dave. Why would she be here too?

****

Around the corner, Karen and Angie were indeed there. The former directed, "Stay here for a minute, Angie. I need to talk to the host for a second." After getting a nod, she left Angie there and headed out into the waiting area. There, she found Dave sitting and waiting. He looks about the same. She sighed, allowing the regrets to pass. Karen, that was a long time ago. Let it go. 

He looked at her and smiled, "Hi, Karen. It's been a while." Feeling the emotions stirring inside of him, he fought them back. Control. You must keep control.

"Yes, Dave, it has been. You're looking well," she replied pleasantly as they hugged each other.

"I'm hanging in there thanks to your family," he responded. "They're great people, you know. And I hope that everything's all right with you and Mike?"

"Just great, thanks!" she laughed albeit a bit nervously. "Mike's in the other room. I'll tell him that you're here!" She rushed off.

He looked around, feeling the emotional tidal wave surging over him. Gripping the seat next to him, he growled softly, trying not to alarm the other guests. I need to get into the bathroom. Compose myself. With that, he made his way into the men's room and washed his face.

Ya'll really need to git a grip, Bro, a voice snickered.

Dave looked in the mirror and saw his reflection. A closed right eye and the snarky grin-the face from his nightmares, however, distorted the image. Not this. Not now. "Give me a break."

Ah don't think so. 'Lax, Ah'm not here to screw ya'll up. Just git out there, the Other urged with a not so subtle assertiveness.

"If you say so," Dave agreed. "Just leave me alone for tonight, okay?"

Right. The Other promised and vanished.

That was special, Dave thought. Taking a deep breath, he walked back out into the lobby and looked around at the empty area. Where is everyone?

Listen up, Dumb ass! The voice in his head urged him. What d'ya hear?

Then he heard crying from the hallway. No. Just like in San Antonio. It couldn't be.

Why don't ya find out, Chicken-shit? 

Dave nodded and headed toward the source.

****

Passing Angie in the hallway, Karen tapped her arm and said, "I think that our friend needs some help."

"Help?" she asked incredulously. "What kind of help? Karen, what's going on?"

The nurse rolled her eyes. "Angie, we should have told you. We arranged a blind date for you, but we wanted it to be a complete surprise. If we didn't, you would have made another excuse to get out of it."

"Yeah. I would have," she sighed. "Still, I need to at least see the guy. I'll do that." Cripes, why didn't I see this coming? Collecting herself, she walked around the corner and surveyed the empty room. So where is he? Terrific, I finally get a date and he ditches me! Slumping into a seat, she began to cry.

At that moment, Dave turned the corner and saw her there. No, it can't be! Can it? Walking up, he asked, "Angie?"

"Now I'm hearing things. It has to be a dream," she muttered, wiping her eyes.

He smiled through his own tears. "Why don't you just look up and say hello, Miss Blackwell?"

No, it couldn't be! She raised her head ever so slightly to see him standing there in front of her. "Oh my gosh! Dave, is that? Oh wow!" she cried.

"Well are you going to just sit there or can I hug you?" he asked.

She grinned. "I don't believe you! Of course! Come here!"

They jumped into each other's arms and shared a long kiss. Each one wanted the moment to last forever. If they had their way, it would.

Everyone else in the restaurant applauded.

Finally, she noted, "I guess we shouldn't keep the others waiting, huh?"

"Yeah. I hope the food's not cold by now. By the way, did a bulb break in here? It seems awfully dark?" Then he heard a familiar giggling. "Karen, come out."

"Yes? Am I being paged, sir?" the nurse slurred with a big smile on her face and a sparkle in her eye. "Mike, did you get that?"

"Got it," he replied. He walked up to his friends. "You have no idea how glad I am that Karen was right about this."

Angie flushed pink. "Karen, you arranged this?"

"Why not?" her friend giggled. "Think, Angie. Both of you haven't had a social life because you're too busy dealing with pain. We're...well...kind of the cause and...when you told us about how you two met, I made some phone calls and...here we are."

"But how did you know it was me?" Dave queried.

Karen stared at him in mock disdain. "You Silly Goose. Really! Her description of the guy fit you to a t and do you think I've forgotten what your handwriting looks like? Honestly, Dave!"

"So how did you find this place?" he asked.

"We had help," Karen mentioned cryptically.

"Frank, are you here?" Dave called out, realizing the main culprit.

"Right here along with Jolene," the doctor replied pleasantly and clapped him on the shoulder good-naturedly. "After Karen called me last night, I had to get involved. So here we are."

"How do you put up with this sneak?" Dave asked Jolene.

"It's hard sometimes," she replied, teasing her husband. "It's nice to see you happy for a change."

"Who else knew?" Dave inquired.

"The family did," Karen replied. "Well, are we going to eat or what?"

The reunited couple silently nodded and walked into the room after their friends.

As they did, Angie cleared her throat and asked nervously, "Dave? Umm...would you mind...holding hands?"

"Of course," he agreed and took her hand in his own.

The meal provided a variety of freshly cooked fish, especially calamari, scallops, and shrimp. The group ate and talked for a while about things.

Then, Karen got up from her seat and cut in, holding up her glass. "Okay, guys. Frank and I talked about this and well, since we know the lovebirds here pretty well, we're elected. Here goes. Dave and Angie, here's hoping that this dinner opens new doors for you both. Remember that your friends are here for you." She gave them each a hug before asking, "Frank?"

"Thanks," he accepted, standing up. "We also want to remind you that you shouldn't wait any longer for opportunity to arrive. It's checkout time at the Heartbreak Hotel for these two, everyone! Here's to two great people!" He raised his glass in a toast.

"Hear! Hear!" they agreed.

Angie cried joyfully. I can't believe this! "Thank you, everyone. Sorry, this is still sinking in."

Dave pondered the moment and looked around at all of his friends. For a minute, he felt as if he was a kid again and his grandmother was throwing him a birthday party with his friends. Then he realized the situation was real, his friends were there, and Angie was really at his side. Looking at his companion, he saw her eyes glitter back at him like fairy dust. "Thanks for everything, Karen," he sighed.

The nurse nodded, flashing one of her trademark brilliant smiles. "My pleasure. I made that promise to you in Smallville, didn't I? After everything, we've been through, I wasn't going to leave you alone. Now relax, you're too serious!"

"Eat!" Mike declared, sticking the calamari in front of him.

Dave did so and enjoyed himself. However, the angel sitting on his left entranced him. This is Heaven. It has to be. 

Angie managed a few bites, but she too was occupied by his presence. I just can't believe this is happening. Gosh, can it really be happening?

Everyone simply watched and said nothing, choosing to enjoy the moment.

****

A few hours later, the group left the restaurant. Frank and Jolene drove back to New York after some very teary farewells. The remaining three members of the convoy climbed into our respective cars and headed up to Scituate. 

Dave insisted on one change though-that Angie ride with him in the Subaru.

She readily agreed and spent the time in transit looking at him and occasionally glimpsing the moon on the waters of the Sound. 

This has to be Heaven, he thought again-not for the last time.

"This is real, isn't it?" she wondered.

"It is. Two lonely souls finally find each other. Great, ain't it?" he laughed. "At least for the next few days. So, when are you all going back to South Carolina?"

She giggled. "Who said anything about me going back there?"

"Huh?" he wondered. "That is where you live, right?"

"For the moment. However, I just accepted a job in Fall River at their hospital. Now, we can be together...if you don't mind the commute that is," she informed him. "That is if it's okay with you?"

He allowed his eyes to shine into hers. "That's perfectly fine with me. I never want to lose you again, Angie."

"Nor I, you," she affirmed, kissing him on the cheek. And you can take that to the bank!


Conclusion

Karen and Mike stayed at the Alvarez house for a week, allowing them all to get caught up on things. All too soon, they left for Columbia. After the good-byes were said and Angie's stuff was unloaded, they pulled away.

The next day, Angie moved into her apartment in Fall River with Dave's help. Since her job didn't start until August 20th, she decided to work with him and the Alvarezes at the beach restaurant. They spent the summer working, playing, and practicing at being close to each other.

****

Two and a half months later, they sat on Misquamicut Beach, staring at the moon, listening to soft music, and enjoying each other's company.

"Do you like this?" he asked her. "Are you okay?"

The moon lit her up in its dim light. She grinned, allowing her teeth and eyes to sparkle. "Absolutely. Dave, can I ask something?"

"Sure," he agreed.

She snuggled close to him. "Can we do this forever?"

"Well, I don't think they'll let stay here that long," he joked.

She shook her head and elbowed him playfully. "You know what I meant, Dummy!"

"Yeah. I did," he agreed. "Just teasing."

She smiled warmly. "Good. Just checking. I'm content, you know. I have a good place for my residency, friends, and a nice guy at long last. Things are really looking up."

He nodded and kissed her on the cheek. "The view's great from here too, Princess."

She blushed at the sound of his nickname for her. It's taken all summer to get used to someone calling me that. Honestly, I don't know if I'd believe it if anyone else said that. "Why do you call me that?"

"You're beautiful inside and out just like a princess," he explained. "So I call you that. Does it bother you?"

She shook her head. "No...I really like it actually. Thanks, Dave, for being you and for being here with me."

"Anytime, Princess. Anytime," he agreed as they kissed in the moonlight and pledged to remain together.



Epilogue

Gabrielle writes....

As the reader will see in future stories, Dave and Angie will keep those promises and grow closer in the midst of trials and tragedy. Despite the obstacles, their love continues to burn brightly, lighting the way for them both in the darkness of despair. And, in times of great need, we, their friends, continue to lend a hand when necessary.

But, as they themselves have said, no matter what happens-never underestimate the power of a chicken sandwich for bringing people together. That first meeting will go down in the annals of history...maybe as improbable, but always as love at first sight. And isn't that what life is all about?

THE BEGINNING....



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