Notes: The characters from the Dubois Chronicles are mine. Gabrielle is from Xena Warrior Princess, which is owned by StudiosUSA and Renaissance Studios.  The song "Imagination" was sung by Laura Branigan and can be found on the Flashdance Soundtrack.  Please send comments to dante0220@yahoo.com .

Prologue [Amazon Village 83AD]

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

A few months after they started their relationship in earnest, a special event provided the opportunity for David and Angela to reveal their feelings in a public venue. At the same time, he and Karen Montoya had an opportunity to work through some things as well.

Here's how it went...

Chapter 1

[Amherst, MA]

Amherst Center was always bustling with activity as its shops and restaurants attracted people from near and far. With the fall foliage season looming and the colleges in session, the number of visitors kept increasing steadily.

In the midst of this activity, the Amherst-Pelham Regional High School reunion committee for the class of 1983 sat in Bart's café, drinking coffee and covering the bases for the upcoming tenth year reunion. It would be on December 27th in the high school's gym. Just that morning, the invitations had gone out to the class members.

Joe Manda looked at the problem list and noticed Dave Dubois' name. I wonder what happened to him? Ever since they graduated, the latter had drifted out of touch. "Hey, Rudy, do we know where Dave Dubois is?"

Rudy Nicholson, the class president, pondered the problem. "I heard that he was out in Arizona for a while. Maybe Karen might know where he is." He opened the alumni directory and scanned the list of names and numbers. "Here she is." Pulling out his cell phone, he dialed the number and waiting as the phone rang.

****

Meantime, Karen was just stepping out of the shower after a busy morning shift when the phone rang. Great. This would have to happen now. So help me, if this is another call from work... Wrapping a purple towel around herself, she sprinted out into the front room and answered the phone, "Hello?"

"Karen Montoya?" Rudy inquired.

"Yes. Who is this?" she wondered.

"Rudy Nicholson from Amherst. How are you?" he replied.

"Rudy! It's been way too long. I'm fine and you?"

"Oh, everything's okay. I was wondering if you could give me some info?" he requested.

"As long as it's not confidential, all right," she agreed.

He snickered. "No, it's not. I was wondering where Dave Dubois is. Last we heard, he was still in Tucson. Is he still there?"

She rolled her eyes. They still think we're an item. This is going to be interesting when we get to the reunion. "Well, he was out there, but now, he's back in Scituate with my folks. Send the invite there and he'll get it. Do you have the address?"

"If that's the one where your brother and sister are living, then yeah, we've got it," he replied.

"Great! Oh and when you send the envelope, put two tickets in it," she requested.

"And why is that? Did he finally find somebody? Sorry, we had heard about your break up and..."

She laughed. Well at least, they have that straight. "Yes. He did with a little help from his friends. Actually, he ran into a fellow UA alumna in San Antonio of all places. I helped to get them back together and they've been dating now for about four months. It's a really long story, but it's worth hearing."

"I'll definitely have to ask. That was a great thing you did for them, Karen, especially how he reacted in Arizona when he found out about you and Mike."

She sighed. "Matt, that was three years ago. Besides, Dave, as I'm sure that Garth Singleton, Steve Petersen, or Frank Landers can tell you, was really devastated when he found out. True, he really made a first class jerk out of himself, but hey, think about how unstable life has been for him. Especially after what his family did to him, I was the only stable influence on him and he cares about me for that reason. He did apologize to us both for that. Mike and I have moved past it and so has he." Even as she reminisced, she remembered the scene too well in the Union as well as Dave's lapse, allowing the Child to explode publicly in a fit of spite and rage. We can't allow him to get into that situation again.

"Karen?" he asked.

"Huh?" she replied, snapping out of it.

"How are they doing? Dave and this girl, I mean?" he inquired.

"Oh very well. Her name's Angie and she's a knockout. She's a medical intern in Fall River. As for how they're doing, I'd say they're crazy about each other," she surmised.

"That's great! Thank you, Karen. I'll put those invites in the mail in a few minutes. We'll see you and Mike at the reunion," he indicated.

"Count on it," she agreed. "Thanks for calling! Bye!"

He hung up and turned to the group with a smile on his face. "I just found out where he is. We need to mail the letter to Scituate." As the others nodded and placed an invite in the envelope, he cautioned, "Put two in there if you would. He's going to have a date."

April McKenzie nodded and gladly followed his directions. I hope she's a nice girl. Dave does deserve somebody like that. "I'll mail it," she volunteered, scribbling the address on it and standing up. Walking out the door, she headed toward the Post Office next door.

Good for you, Dubie, Rudy mused. I can't wait to see this girl of his. I can't wait.

Chapter 2 [Scituate]

For Dave and Angie, it had been quite the summer. In between shifts working at the "Wee Packet", the shore side diner on the Hyannisport pier, they had traveled to New York City to visit the Frank and Jolene Landers, taken in a few games over at Fenway Park, and spent time on the beaches along the Rhode Island and Connecticut shores by themselves.

After August 20th, they started into their "real lives". He worked as a reference librarian and taught a History class at Southeastern Massachusetts University in Dartmouth. Her residency position kept her busy in Fall River. However, they did call each other every night and managed to see each other twice a week. While they weren't seeing each other everyday, it was the next best thing.

****

One day, Dave stood in the Alvarezs' front yard, playing catch with Rick and thinking about things. Between his course load and the demands for basic English composition instructional sessions, he needed to unwind badly. Fortunately, his friend complied with the glove.

"How's it going at SMU? It's a nice campus, isn't it?" he wondered.

"It's a great place all right," the librarian agreed, tossing him a soft throw. "Catch!"

"Got it," the musician replied nonchalantly and flipped the return throw back at Dave.

Just then, a horn honked several times.

"What the?" Dave asked, turning toward the sound.

Rick gaped. What the heck's he doing? "Dave, the ball!" he exclaimed.

The medievalist suddenly remembered that the projectile was hurling toward his head. Instinctively, he put his glove up and snagged it with only a cursory glance. "I knew it was there. No big deal," he assured his buddy, firing the ball back at him.

Rick shook his head. Dave's pulling that spooky stuff again. I wish I knew how he did that.

The two guys saw Angie climb out of her 1989 Nissan Maxima. She wore a maroon Arizona State football jersey with a white tanktop underneath it and matching gym shorts. Her hair was pulled back in a ponytail hanging through the hole in the back of her Red Sox cap. Her brown eyes sparkled in the sunlight as she batted her boyfriend playfully with her softball mitt. "Hey," she greeted and kissed his cheek.

"Hey, what's up?" he replied, feeling more enthusiastic about playing catch (if that was possible). "Just get out of work?"

"Yeah. Rotation let out early today. I stopped off at home, changed, and came here figuring you two would be here. By the way, Mrs. Alvarez invited me over for dinner. I figured you wouldn't mind. Can I get in on the action here or what?" she informed them.

Rick smiled and shook his head at this interchange. I think we've created a monster. Still, it's so much better than what was going on before. "Better let her in, Dave."

"Yeah, women always want what you've got," the librarian teased good-naturedly.

"Which isn't much, I hear, after the student loan payments," she cracked saucily. "Still, I guess I'll put up with you...for now." Sprinting back about fifty feet, she yelled, "Over here!"

Rick fired the ball at her. "Catch!"

She raised her glove almost nonchalantly, snatching the ball out of midair. "Dave!" With that, she fired a throw at her boyfriend.

He caught her toss and then, took off his glove and threw a left handed toss at Rick.

"Show off!" they chorused.

"When you've got it, you've got it," Dave chuckled. "Come on, Rick. Throw it to her."

The trio continued this activity until nearly 6 PM. At that point, Angie and Dave left to have dinner with Karen's parents.

They found Dr. Alvarez basting ribs and cooking them on the grill. The man, in addition to his post at the local college, was also a mean cook when it came to steaks, pork chops, and BBQ ribs.

"Hey, guys. Good to see you! Dinner will be ready in a few minutes!" he greeted.

"Thanks!" Dave replied. "Come on, Angie, let's get cleaned up. Those ribs are to die for."

Her eyes brightened. If there was something she loved, it was a big messy rack of ribs whose odor hung heavily in the air. "Yummy!" she agreed, walking quickly into the bathroom and cleaning up her face and hands. Then, she told Dave, "Your turn!"

He smirked. "Did you leave me a clean spot here?"

"That's what the soap's for, Chief," she retorted sarcastically, tossing him a clean towel. "Besides, it's my dirt."

"Yeah well, I might need to have it analyzed first," he teased. "By the way, do you know how you face shines after you wash up?"

She blushed. No fair. I'm looking for the wisecrack and he throws that at me. Sighing, she retreated to the dining room.

****

About fifteen minutes later, the Alvarezes and their guests sat around the dining room table. The ribs, as expected, disappeared fairly quickly under the assault from all sides as did the salad, vegetables, and the iced-tea.

"Did everyone have a great day?" Dr. Alvarez wondered.

"Yes," the group replied in stereo.

He shook his head. "Dave, I wanted to mention to you that there was something for you in the mail today from the Amherst reunion committee. It seems that your ten-year is coming up soon. How did they know to send it here?"

The librarian held up a finger as he chewed on a mouthful of beef. "Mmm...I have a theory. What do you think, Angie?"

The resident chuckled, "Karen told them. So-umm-when is this event?" She bit into another rib as she awaited the answer.

"Two days after Christmas in Amherst. I can't wait actually to see everyone," Dave replied.

"Really?" Angie inquired with mock-surprise. "You're usually one of the most patient people I know."

That remark sent the rest of the room into hysterics.

Dave shook his head. She got me. He playfully elbowed her arm.

"Hey!" she laughed.

"So I take it that you're both going?" Caroline queried hopefully.

"Of course. It's time a certain somebody met the masses," Dave cracked, rubbing his girlfriend's shoulder.

Angie blushed and shook her head. Great. What am I getting myself into this time?

****

After washing the dishes and clearing the table, Dave mailed their acceptances back to Amherst. After he came back in the house, he found Angie flipping through his old yearbook going through the names and faces of his classmates.

"Hi," she greeted. "I hope you don't mind. I was curious."

"Now, why would I mind that?" he responded, sitting down next to her. "Those were some good years at least...as far as I can remember."

She looked anxiously at him. Another piece of his life that he can't remember. I wonder why that is. Karen is so cryptic about that stuff, but I'll get it out of her. "At least you had your friends."

"I certainly did and they stood by me when I needed it, especially Karen," he explained. Noticing the eyebrow scrunching, he inquired, "What's on your mind now?"

"I was thinking. Would you like to make this trip sort of a pilgrimage? I would love to see your old "stomping grounds" and have you tell me about them," she requested.

He nodded and smiled. "That would be a great idea!"

"Super!" she agreed. Looking at her watch, she saw it was coming up for 9PM. "Sorry, Dave. I've got to be heading back. Work starts at 6 tomorrow."

"Okay," he relented. As much as he hated to see her go, he knew she was happy with her job. "Call me tomorrow night?"

"Absolutely," she agreed getting into her car and driving away.

He walked back into the house thinking, This is going to be some trip. It's definitely going to be a time to remember.

Chapter 3 [Two Months later]

The next three months passed quickly as Thanksgiving and Christmas came and went. What wonderful holidays! Dave and Angie spent turkey day at her parents' farm in Wabash, NY with the traditional dinner, her father's scrutiny of Dave, and the Arizona-Arizona State football game. The Alvarezes hosted a wonderful Christmas dinner as usual with a big Christmas tree, a large meal, and lots of fellowship. As an extra touch, Dave provided the music from his collection of medieval carols.

****

Early the next morning, Angie and Dave packed their formal clothes and other items for the trip into the Subaru. For three days, they would need only a few things, but it was best to be prepared for anything. After they did that, they joined Charles and Caroline at the dining room table for cocoa and planned their itinerary.

"So where are you guys heading?" Caroline wondered.

"That depends on Dave. This is his trip," Angie replied, taking a deep sip of the chocolate drink.

"Let's see...getting to Amherst is going to take about two and a half hours from here. Drives down Pleasant Street among other places, taking in the high school field would be nice. Maybe we can throw in lunch at Bart's. Tomorrow night's the reunion at APRHS. I figured we could stop at the cemetery before we come back."

"What so special about the baseball field?" Angie wondered.

"That's where the 'Most Important Game' was held. It's a long story, but let's just say that Karen and some of the other girls were in trouble. We ended up playing the U-Mass baseball team and upsetting them 8-6 thanks to Wonderboy here. He was so sick and yet, he beat one of the better college teams almost singlehandedly," Charles recounted.

Dave sighed and Caroline added ruefully, "That's a day I would like to forget."

"I barely remember hitting a home run. After that, it gets dark," Dave informed them.

Charles rubbed his arm. "You were in so much pain. I don't doubt that you forgot some of it. Trust me, you pitched the last three innings yourself and hit the grand slam to win it. I was right there with you the whole time." Even as he said that, he remembered the almost maniacal stare Dave gave to everyone, friend and foe alike, on that day. That was the only time that we could say that we're glad he lapsed. Even the pro prospects refused to dig in against the intense pitcher.

Angie shuddered, recalling what Karen had said to her on the first day. His past is so full of pain. That's why I have to help him with it. "Will we be seeing any of his family while we're there?"

"Dave got the boot years ago from his father and never got along well with his mother. I think that Randy and Cybelle would want to meet you though," Caroline pointed out.

The librarian shrugged. "Sure. I want to see Miri and visit everyone." Looking at Angie, he asked, "Sounds good?"

"Whatever you want to do, Dave, is fine with me. Personally, I can't wait to meet your brother and sister," she agreed.

He nodded and took the cooler with their drinks out to the car. After that was placed in the back seat, he called, "We're set, Princess! Guys, we'll see you later!"

Angie smiled, "I guess he's ready to rip. We'll see you guys later." She walked out of the house and got into the passenger seat of the Subaru. "I'm ready, Captain. Punch it!"

He smirked at the sci-fi reference and started the car up. "Okay, we're off!" After pulling out of the driveway, they made for the interstate. Taking I-95, they connected with the Mass Pike in Newton and headed west.

At that point, she looked over to him. He had been quiet, not saying so much as a single word since they got on the highway. He's brooding again. "Hey, Dave. Penny for your thoughts?"

He roused himself. "Hmmm? Oh, I'm really concerned about tomorrow. You know, it's been so long since I've seen everyone at the high school. I wonder what they'll think of me and you?"

She rubbed his arm reassuringly. "Hey, there you go again. Don't worry, all right? I'm sure that we'll be fine. Besides, anyone who wants to mess with you will have to come through me."

He smiled. She's developed an attitude since we've met. This is definitely a good thing to help her get over some of that shyness. "You're right. I have to think positively."

"That's the spirit!" she cheered. Just then, her purse started to ring or rather, the car phone that was underneath it. "Hello?"

"Hi, Angie. What's going on?" Karen asked.

"Hi, Karen. Where are you?" the resident retorted.

"I'm at my parents' house and noticed that the Subaru was gone. I gather you two are on your way to Amherst?" the nurse guessed. "Where are you now?"

Angie looked at the signs trying to find the answer.

Dave directed, "Plug the phone into the speaker so I can talk." When she had done so, he answered, "Hey, Karen, we're right outside of Framingham. We'll be in Amherst in about an hour. Did you want to meet somewhere?"

Karen pondered his question for a minute before answering, "Yes. If Mike and I leave in about ten minutes, we can meet you at Bart's for a late lunch. Sound good?"

"Sure," Angie agreed. "That'll give us time for a quick spin through the town."

Dave smirked. "A quick initial spin, you mean."

Angie rolled her eyes. "Honestly, Karen, I've never seen anyone so split between being excitement and dread as my cohort here."

I wonder why. To quote Dickens-"It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.... "He had reasons for both reactions, Angie, even if he doesn't remember at the moment," she explained.

"I guess that's true. Hey, did you get the video footage pieces off to the committee?" he responded.

"They went off a month ago," she assured him. "See you in a couple of hours."

"Bye," we replied, concluding the call.

"What clips are you two talking about?" Angie wondered.

"You'll see," he slurred mysteriously as he pulled off of Exit 8 and took them on Route 32 through Palmer and into Amherst. As they came into town from the east, he showed her the town center with all of the shops and restaurants. Heading down Pleasant Street, he pointed out his mother's old house and two doors down from that where Cybelle lived.

About five minutes to noon, they pulled up in front of Bart's. "Well, here we are," he told her. "The favorite hangout for all Amherst students-high school and college."

"This is the place you used to hang out in, huh?" she queried, inspecting the ice cream shop's front.

At that moment, the familiar red van pulled up next to them and honked its horn.

Dave and Angie waved back.

"You got here pretty fast, Amigo," Dave kidded Mike.

Mike shrugged. "Hey, I can't help it if that heap of yours crawls down the interstate. Besides, this baby can fly."

"Is it you or is it the impatient one with her foot pressed against the passenger floorboards?" Dave gibed.

"I heard that!" Karen shot back with a laugh. "What makes you think I had anything to do with Speedy Gonzales here?"

"You have a strong influence on the guys, Miss, especially in certain establishments," Dave cracked.

She giggled. Whatever you did, Angie, keep it up. "Name one such place."

He motioned with his eyes toward the ice cream shop in front of them.

"That's not fair, you know," she protested albeit humorously as she climbed out of the van.

They went into Bart's and, after getting their meals, sat down at a table.

"Geez, the memories in this place are something," Dave noted.

"Oh cripe," Mike teased. Is this where Dave goes through his growing infatuation with you, Karen? Sorry, Casanova, she's all mine."

"Yeah, well it was interesting to say the least," the librarian pointed out. "See the counter where the register is?"

"Yeah. So?" Angie teased.

"That's where Dave took on five gangsters and lost. They kidnapped us both after that," Karen recounted.

"And how about the corner over there?" her husband inquired, pointing to the back left side.

"Let's see," Dave declared, trying to strain the haze for memories. "I think that's where Karen gave me the strategy session for standing up to my folks."

"Right. That happened right after you got out of the hospital," Karen sighed, remembering the fall from the second story window in Ludlow. She also kept a close eye on his face, knowing that the change could happen right there.

He shivered as he held his feelings in check, not allowing the Child free rein. Still, in his head, he heard the familiar banshee scream. He's still pissed about that one.

"Hey! Are you all right?" Angie asked. "Karen, what is it?"

Mike shook his head. Crap. We don't need one of his episodes right now. Hang in there, Bud.

"No, I won't...." Dave ground his teeth and took a deep breath as he wrestled with the darkness within himself. Finally, he took a deep breath and sighed, slumping into the cushions of the booth.

"Are you okay?" Angie wondered, rubbing his shoulder. What is it? Why did he seize up like that?

"I'm okay, Angie," he tried to assure her even though he clearly wasn't all right. "Just another one of my spells."

"Yeah..." she frowned, glancing at him. Over the four months since they had met, he had suffered three such instances...this one being the third. Has he ever had this checked out? I really need to get him to a doctor about this.

"Really, Angie. We can talk about this later," he pushed, not wanting to deal with it.

Karen shook her head at her, urging her not to push the issue.

"All right," she relented for the moment. "That corner over there. Is it safe for me to ask about that?"

Dave nodded. "Go ahead, Miss."

Karen smiled. "That's where I first talked to him. You should have seen him jump when I tapped him on the arm and said hi. Brother, I thought you were going to have a heart attack that day."

He flushed with embarrassment.

Angie laughed warmly and rubbed his arm.

"How about the stools over there?" Mike inquired.

"That's where Professor Dave imparted the secret test strategy. We had a real bear of an exam for our junior year Chaucer class. Nobody ever passed that one. Ever! So Smartie over here came in for an iced tea break and told me what to do."

"And that was?" Angie asked him.

He recalled the session clearly. "It was to go home, get a good night's sleep, and eat a good breakfast as I remember."

"Right," the nurse continued. "Anyhow, we took the exam on Friday and the grades were posted on Monday. This time, there was an 89 and a 93. I'll tell you that caused a stir in the class. Then, Mr. Morton handed our papers back. When I saw my grade, I jumped up and yelled, 'Dave, I got the 89!' He did me one better with the 93."

"Just like in the History classes back at the U of A," Mike groused good-naturedly.

"She is a mistress of motivation," Dave remarked, sipping on his soda.

"Really, Dave!" Karen giggled. "You gave me way too much credit as usual! There are good memories here, you know."

"Yeah, I know," the librarian moped, shaking his head as they finished their lunch. And a lot of bad ones too. "We have one more stop to make. Let's roll."

The day had turned warm, making it feel like late March or April. Leading the way, Dave took off down Pleasant Street taking a right at the traffic light and pulling up to the little league baseball field beside the high school.

Angie looked over the field. "It's a normal little league field. So what?"

"Remember our conversation this morning?" Dave asked mysteriously.

"This is where the Game took place," the nurse added, shivering slightly.

"So this is it," Mike stated, walking around the outfield. "It couldn't have been that hard a place to play in."

"No, it wasn't except for keeping the ball in the park," Karen told him.

"Especially off of Dave's bat!" a voice boomed from behind them.

The quartet turned to see a lanky man with brown hair and dark eyes approaching them. "How's it going, Dubie?"

"Garth!" Dave greeted and shook his hand. "I'm okay."

"And Karen, I see you're maintaining your beauty well. Still keeping Dave's spirits up?" he continued, laying on the Singleton charm.

Oh brother. Angie shook her head.

Karen shook her head. "Thanks, Garth, but things are different now. Meet my husband, Mike Montoya. Mike, this is Garth Singleton. We hung out together in high school," she said, clearing the air.

"Pleased to meet you," Garth expressed, shaking his hand. Wow. Who would've ever thought they wouldn't be hitched at this point?

Mike nodded and smiled.

"Garth, this is my girlfriend, Angie Blackwell. Angie, this is Garth Singleton."

"I must say that Dave always did have champagne taste in women," he complimented.

She blushed nervously. "Karen, is he always like this?"

The nurse inspected the other man and nodded. "Oh yeah, he's a bit on the corny side, but he's all right."

Garth shook his head. He picks out the live ones too. She and Karen do have a lot in common.

"Okay, who feels like a workout?" Dave grinned and changed into his padded vest.

"Not me, but if you boys want to do it, be our guest. C'mon, Angie," Karen declined.

For fifteen minutes each, the two old friends stood at the plate and hit deep fly balls. The mortar shots echoed off of the wooden bats as they cleared the fence by plenty, bouncing in the empty parking lot by the school. Since both men could switch hit, they competed to see who could hit the most balls from either side of the plate.

"Whew!" Garth told him. "That's enough for me. One more, Dubie." He threw a fastball down the middle of the plate.

Dave grinned and turned on the pitch, sending it against the school building on two bounces.

His former classmate shook his head. "You still have it, Dave. Well, I've got to run. See you all tomorrow night?"

"We'll be there," Dave told him, patting his friend on the back. "Stay out of trouble."

"That's my line to you," he cracked, heading for his car. "Nice seeing all of you."

Once he had left, the librarian asked the others. "Who wants to complete our personal tour?"

"Great idea," Angie agreed. "Where to next?"

"That depends. Cybelle's invited the four of us for dinner. My brother's family will be there too," he noted.

Karen's face grew serious. "As long as your parents don't show up."

"What's the big deal with them?" Angie wondered.

"Long story," Dave replied. "Relax. Dad's in Maine and Mom's at the shore."

"All right," the nurse agreed guardedly. "Let's go."

After returning to their respective vehicles, they took off for Cybelle's place, hoping for a relaxing time.

****

After a great dinner and an opportunity for Dave to play a bit with Miri, he and Angie pulled into the Red Roof Inn.

As soon as they got there, he yawned loudly.

"Too much excitement, Big Guy?" she teased, obviously amused as they left the car.

"No. Just putting up with you is all," he verbally elbowed her while carrying their bags to the desk and preparing to check in.

After that, they walked into their room. It was a double with two beds.

"Want to talk some more?" he offered.

"No, that's okay," she declined. Walking over to him, she kissed his cheek. "Thanks for a great day."

"I scared you in Bart's, didn't I?" he asked.

"It happens. You shake a bit. It's happened before. I'm not worried about it," she dismissed the threat and headed into the bathroom.

As she was in there, he changed quickly into his sweats and got into bed. She's not worried about it. Well, pardon me, because I am. I definitely am.

Chapter 4

Early the next morning, Dave stirred and looked around. Somehow, I managed to sleep all night. Go figure. He turned over and saw Angie snoozing away peacefully in the other bed. Sleep well, Princess. Even when she's sleeping, her face is so soft and her hair so shiny.

Then she stirred and blinked at him. "Dave? What time is it?" she murmured sleepily.

"About 9:30," he replied. "Want to get some brunch?"

She turned over slowly. He could see that she had composed herself miraculously fast. "Sure!" she agreed, a big smile on her face. She gave him a big kiss and rushed for the bathroom. "Be out in a second!"

"Take your time," he told her. "I've got Sportscenter on."

"Any scores?" she asked expectantly.

He chuckled. How many guys would love this? Brains, beauty, attitude, and a sports junkie in one package? Eat your heart out, gang, because she's my girlfriend. Watching the ticker, he saw the results. "U of A and ASU both won last night."

"Then there's peace for today," she informed him half-seriously as she shut the door.

Fifteen minutes later, she trudged out in her robe and wiping her hair off. "Your turn!"

"Yes 'm," he teased, heading for the shower and settling into its steamy embrace.

"Hey, don't fog it up in there! Geez!" she joked as she rummaged through her suitcase. This blouse would look good with these slacks.

Then the phone rang. "Hello?" she answered.

"Hi, Angie. It's Frank. Jolene and I are on our way up there. What's going on for dinner?" Frank Landers inquired.

"Just a second," she urged and knocked on the bathroom door. "Dave, do we have any dinner plans yet?"

He stuck his soaked head out and asked, "No. Why?" He pulled his robe on and came out. "Who?"

"Frank," she stated handing him the phone. "By the way, you look like a drowned muskrat. You know that?"

Dave made a face and answered the phone. "Frank, what's up?"

"Not much. Sounds like you two are moving quickly there," his friend assumed.

"That's droll, Frank. It's not what you think. Anyhow, what do you want to do for dinner tonight?" the librarian inquired.

"The Depot would be good about fiveish," the doctor noted.

"It's a date,' Dave agreed. "Drive safely, all right?"

"Yeah right," Frank chuckled hanging up.

Why do I feel like he's an accident waiting to happen? He asked himself as he walked over to the mirror where she was brushing her hair.

"What are we doing, Fearless Leader?" she inquired impetuously.

"We're eating dinner with the Landerses about 5PM at the Depot. I figure that'll give us a good three hours to eat and relax before we go to the reunion."

"Sounds great!" she shot back. "I'd better call Karen and let her know." After dialing a number, she talked with her friend for a few minutes before hanging up. "Okay. So what are we doing?"

"I figure we can take a drive. Go see my brother for the afternoon. Let's bring our formal wear with us just in case it runs over," he suggested.

"Lord knows, I wouldn't want to keep you and Miranda apart, Dave," she cracked even though she enjoyed watching him being the good uncle to her. Putting her dress in the garment bag, she placed it on the bed. Then she put on her clothes for the day. "Do you have your suit, Dave?"

"It's in the car," he advised her, checking everything in the room. "Let's go. We have a few minutes yet but there's another stop first."

Noticing how grim he had become, she wondered, What's going on? "Dave, are you all right?"

"Let's go. It'll be okay," he noted as they left the inn and headed east. Rounding the bottom tip of the Quabbin Reservoir, they headed along the state route through woods and small towns.

"Where are we going?" she asked, unnerved by the darkness of the woods and the lack of buildings around them.

"Rowenshire," he remarked. "My Dad's first palace." Taking a left off of the state road, the Subaru passed through the center of the small isolated town and headed to the northern edge. Alongside a small clearing, he stopped the car. "We're here."

She got out and looked around, feeling very anxious. Even at the height of the day, the sky remained dark and the air was cold there. She saw the two story house in the clearing below. The exterior paint looked chipped and worn. The grass shot up through the bricks in front of the house. "And this is where you grew up?"

"One of the places," he remarked. "And this is as close as you get to it, Angie. I won't let you go any closer to it."

"Why not? Are you going to tell me it's cursed or something?" she laughed, stepping onto the grass. "Come on."

"I don't know. Legend has it that a witch practiced her magic in that field. After she was gone, the place was cursed. My father slapped it on us when he bought the land," he explained, feeling the surging darkness within him rising to meet the environment around them.

Ah knew ya'll were crazy bringin' her here! Git goin'! the Child roared inside of his head.

The wind stirred and Angie swore she could see something glowing in the field next to the house. "Dave, who...who's that?"

He saw the ghostly figure getting closer. "Angie, get in the car!  NOW!" Damn it!

The wind picked up and carried a haunting almost demonic laughter.

"Ooh..." she fainted and fell to the ground.

"ANGIE!" he screamed. Why did I do this? Why? Picking her up, he managed to get her into the car just before the ghost cornered him. "Stay back!"

The spirit grinned wickedly. "You knew not to come back here, fool!" She cast a spell and from her hands, dark fire spewed and burned him body and soul.

He recoiled. As a child, he had endured this bitch's tormenting. He felt his mind lapse and he blacked out.

Then he opened his eyes...but it wasn't him.

"Hey, Bitchie-poo! Ah'm back!" the Child leered, getting to his feet and letting out a loud ear splitting roar that could be heard back into town.

"The Child, I see," the spirit woman noted, taking careful stock of the Dark One. "You did take something from here, didn't you?"

"Ah did. Watch!" he snapped, firing a pulse and leveling her. "Su'pise!"

She staggered to her feet. "I'll beat you yet."

"No you won't," a familiar voice challenged. Cybelle stepped out of the mists in her green robes and shook her head.

"Well, the youngest brat! All grown up, I see!" the witch's spirit challenged.

"I'm a priestess," Cybelle replied calmly. "Go back to your hole."

The spirit fired a spell at her.

Cybelle deflected it with great effort. I wish I could have finished those last few lessons before this happened. Help us, Mother.

"Cybbie, how'ze 'bout some teamwork? The Child rasped, his hands glowing.

For once, that thing has a point. She knew that whatever was in that house had helped to shape Dave, imparting the dark reflection that spoke to her now. "Fine!" She channeled her own energies. "Go!"

They fired in tandem, smacking the sorceress into a thick oak tree. Another incantation from Cybelle used the branches to bind their attacker.

"Now to seal this place," she said and concentrated. Singing the Celtic chant, she raised her hands to the sky, emitting shards of energy at the property. Eventually, a glowing force field surrounded the clearing, trapping the witch inside.

"Why did you bring her here, you fool?" she turned on the Child.

"Me? Hey, she wanted to know everythin'. Big Bro thought she could handle it. Ah agreed with ya'll," he told her.

"I'm sure you would. Now, c'mon, enough of this. Let's get back to Amherst before you get into any further trouble," she countered, producing a small blue ball and throwing it on the ground in front of him.

"Crap! Arrgh! NO!" he growled, coughing and falling asleep.

Dragging him to the car, she put him in the driver's seat and teleported the three of them away from there, leaving the witch to shake in her prison.

I will get them one day. I'll follow them for all time...past...present...future...I will get them....

****

When Dave awoke, he saw they were back in Cybelle's house. "Geez...my head," he complained, feeling the familiar headache. Man, I changed again.

"You're awake. It's about time," Karen noted, leaning by his side.

"Karen, where's Angie? Is she all right?" he wondered.

"She's fine," Cybelle reported entering the room still dressed in her robes. "Fortunately, you got her out of the spirit's domain in time. You, on the other hand, took a beating."

"Where were they?" the nurse wondered. Now I'm glad I told Mike to meet Garth and April over at Bart's. Somehow she knew that another incident had happened. Earlier, she had felt him through their link even as Cybelle had done-and felt him change.

"Our former house in Rowenshire," the priestess indicated, handing him a cup of herbal tea.

She shook her head and hissed, "You took her there? What is wrong with you?"

"She's the one who wanted answers," he replied weakly, rubbing his head. "I had no idea that the story was still true."

"What story is that, pray tell?" the nurse huffed.

"Remember the story about Anne Lichtenfeld from our sophomore history class?" he inquired.

"The supposed witch? What of it-she's a myth, isn't she?" Karen asked.

"That myth of yours ran into the Child this afternoon and they were already fighting when I got there," Cybelle informed them. "Thank the goddess I was able to stop them."

"The land that your father built on was hers, then?"

"Yes," he agreed. "I've had some weird things happen in that place and she scared me as a kid a few times, but nothing so obvious as what she pulled today. Why did it happen?"

"The Child was drawn to the house again, Dave," his sister explained. "I didn't believe in spirits and curses until I underwent my training in the white arts."

"I was going to ask about your robes and the skills," he told her. "How long have you...?"

"When you thought I was at boarding school, I was in a place called Althanor training to be a priestess. It was there that I was cleansed of the family curse," she explained.

"Can't you do the same for him?" Karen requested.

"Sadly, I can't. In rescuing you from the Pit and then, facing Dijon, the darkness has taken root in him. The Child is the darkness. You know of what I speak," their hostess remarked. "Does Angie know what he is?"

"No. I can't explain what I don't understand myself.  Dave, I've seen you change and it scared me. The police saw the fight between you and those...things at Dr. Samuelsohn's house. I'm sorry now that I brought Angie into this mess," Karen worried.

"It's not my fault, Karen! What am I supposed to do? Fear myself? I can't take this anymore!" he yelled, holding his head.

"Besides her place is at his side, Karen. Yours and your husband's is to be close by as well," the priestess added. "Angie wasn't ready to face Lichtenfeld yet. One day, we'll have to go back there, but not for many years. I'll make her forget about today. Neither of you is to say anything about it to her. Just pretend that you went for a drive in the country and that she fell asleep in the car. All right?" She took a white powder out of her bag and sprinkled it on the sleeping brunette's forehead. Sleep, Angie. When you awake, you'll not remember anything of what happened this afternoon nor will you know of Dave's condition at least not yet. Soon, however, you'll learn of it to your sorrow. It is your task to accompany my brother throughout this life. Together, you'll share many adventures in sickness and in health. You'll help him deal with this Dark Child that has grown inside of him. I'll be close by always...although you don't know my true nature at least not yet.

"It's done," Cybelle told them. "Meantime, you both have a reunion to get ready for, do you not? I've already explained to Randy that you won't be coming to his house. It's almost 4:00. Shouldn't you be getting ready?"

"We should. Dave, promise me you won't do something with her like that again," Karen requested.

"I won't," he vowed earnestly. "I don't want to go through that again."

You won't have a choice, his sister mused. From the scrying well, she recalled seeing Karen, Miranda, and Angie in some dark place where she couldn't intervene. Soon, you will have to release the Other again in order to defeat the evil that awaits you there.

At that moment, Angie began to stir. "Uhhh...what happened?" she murmured.

Cybelle cast another spell changing her appearance to that of a normal housewife and retrieved a second cup of tea. "You fell asleep in the car while you and Dave were out driving. He brought you back here to rest. Isn't that right, Dave?"

"Right," he agreed.

Angie rubbed her head. Everything's so fuzzy. I remember driving all right, but something did happen. I can't remember what it was, but I know it did. Best to play along for now. "What time is it?"

"Almost 4. Angie, would you like to freshen up here and then, you all can go meet Frank together?" Cybelle offered.

"Yeah, okay. Let's get our stuff out of the car," Angie accepted.

"I'll go and meet Mike. We'll see you at the Depot," Karen concluded and, after shooting Dave a sharp glare, left.

What was that all about? The resident wondered as she walked out to the car and pulled the garment bags out. Having them in hand, she walked back into the house.

"He's in the shower," the hostess pointed out. "Do you want to take one? We have another one down the hall."

"Great," she accepted and headed there, her garment bag in hand.

Staring at her guest, the priestess shook her head. Despite the spell, she suspects. Mother, why do you work like this? I don't mean to question, but it will break her heart before she needs to.

No answers were forthcoming...not that she was expecting any.

At that moment, her brother stuck his head out of the bedroom she shared with her husband. "I forgot to bring my suit in. Dang it!"

"Angie did it for you. She's too good for you, Brother dear," Cybelle tsked, handing him the garment bag.

"I know that, but thanks for the reminder. If I knew what was waiting there, I never would have brought her there," he responded frankly, a scared look in his eyes.

Are you frightened? Good. But not frightened enough-not of the darkness both within and without. Soon enough, you'll be constantly on guard against it. She glared at him. "I know that, but you need to be on guard from here on out, Dave. Angie's too precious to risk in that way."

"For once, we agree," he concurred from the bathroom where he put on his shirt and trousers. Returning to the living room, he sat down and put on his socks and shoes. "I'd die before I'd let anything harm her. I think I proved that today."

She shrugged. "When Dad unintentionally cursed the family, Dave, he put the burden on you and me. I am the light...you, the split. Another was meant to be the light as well but I can't tell who that was. I feel as if I should know the person, but can't place why."

Another sibling? Great...Cybelle, stop the crackpot theories already. He straightened his tie in front of the mirror and put his blazer on.

She looked him over and nodded in approval. "You look splendid for once."

At that moment, Angie called out. "I'm ready. Here I come! How do I look?"

"Don't keep us in suspense," he told her.

"Some people," she sighed and came into view. She wore a flowing lavender gown with black straps. On her right wrist, a gold bracelet glistened in the lamplight that also caught her pearl necklace and her eyes. Her perfume wafted through the air, tickling his nose with its pleasant scent.

His jaw dropped. "Awesome," he managed to gasp.

"For once, he's speechless," Cybelle cracked. "Now, get set." She waited for them to pose before she took out the camera and snapped a few pictures. "Okay, you're set. Now get going and have fun, all right?"

They nodded and departed for the car. Once inside, they drove out of sight.

Cybelle stood inside of her doorway for a long while staring at the road. May the goddess keep you both safe. Only she knows how much you two have dealt with already today.

Chapter 5

[The Depot-Northampton Center]

Karen checked her watch carefully. Ever since she had left Cybelle's house, she had remained on pins and needles. Once back in the hotel room, she had changed quickly and left to get some air, avoiding Mike's questions. If it did really happen, we don't need any other problems right now. Cybelle's right, as much as I never thought I'd hear myself say those words. Angie doesn't need to know--at least for now. Seeing the Subaru pull up, she waved and walked over. "Hey, guys."

Dave climbed out and helped Angie from her seat. "Hi, Karen. Ready to eat?"

"Yeah. I figured that one wander-about from you two is enough for one day," the nurse indicated half-seriously.

Angie shook her head. "Honestly! First, Cybelle carries on about it and now, you too! So I fell asleep and had this weird nightmare. So what! Let's forget about it. Okay?"

"Come on, Princess," he told her, shooting the other woman a dirty look. There's no need to carry on like this. What is her deal?

Karen shook her head and followed them inside. "Through the door and to the left, guys."

"Hi, guys. What's going on?" Mike asked expectantly. He too was hoping for some answers since his wife had been so evasive.

"Nothing much," Angie noted. "We went for a drive is all. I had a nice nap."

"Great! Now that you're here, we can order," Frank interjected, a smile on his face.

****

Twenty minutes later, the food arrived. The dishes ranged from chicken to meat and over to fish. The group ate and talked and, after a while, managed to brighten the mood a bit from earlier.

"What's on tap for tonight?" Dave asked after their food.

"Reunion starts at 7:30. We have about an hour and a half before we need to be there," Karen stated. "I can't wait to reminisce about those things. But then again, there are memories here too."

"Really? Like what?" Angie inquired, curious to learn about another piece of their collective past.

"As I recall," Dave indicated. "I ate dinner here on the night of the Junior-Senior semi-formal. Since I couldn't go with her, I decided to opt out that night."

"Where were you? It's not like you to miss a dance," Mike wondered.

"I was in bed with a sprained ankle and a wrenched knee," Karen grumbled. "I fell into a twenty foot mine shaft." She shuddered, "We were on a class skiing trip. I went cross-country skiing with a friend and fell in. She got back to the lodge and told everyone. Dave came after me, and pulled me out, outracing a blizzard in the process. Then, twelve hours later, he won the official snowmobiling race. As for the dance, I told him to go, but he wouldn't."

"That's so sweet," Angie sighed, rubbing up against his arm. "Sometimes, you have your moments."

Dave smiled and drank his wine, allowing the moment to sweep aside the pain experienced earlier, putting them all in a better mood for the party later that night.

****

Two hours later, the group stood in front of the high school. Other cars had already parked and their owners were already inside.

Dave took a deep anxious breath.

"Hey, we're going to be all right," Angie assured him. "What's the worse thing that can happen to us in there? We've already had a full day...getting lost in the countryside that is. Come on!"

Karen folded her arms and shook her head. She has no idea of what she's talking about.

"What is it?" her husband insisted. "You have that 'I'm ticked off' look."

"I'll tell you on the way home," she informed him. "And I'll be driving when I do it."

"He didn't hurt her, did he?" Mike wanted to know.

"No. Well, they ran into a bit of trouble, but she doesn't remember it. Promise me, Mike, not a word about it to anyone," she stated firmly, her eyes flashing fire as they walked in.

At the registration booth, William Edwards, the assistant principal, sat with Rudy.

"Hi, guys," Rudy greeted. "How's everything?"

"Rudy, Principal Edwards, how are you?" Frank greeted.

"Great. Let's see here are your tags-Frank, Dave, and Karen. I also have passes for Mike, Jolene and Angie," the administrator indicated, handing the group their badges. "You're all looking splendid."

"Thanks, sir," Dave replied. "I guess some introductions are in order. The man with Karen is her husband, Mike Montoya; the lady with Frank is his Jolene Landers; and this very charming lady is my girlfriend, Angela Blackwell."

"Honestly, Dave!" the resident flushed embarrassedly while shaking Rudy's and the elder man's hands. "Please call me, Angie."

The class president grinned. "So, this is Angie? Karen, you didn't do her any justice on the phone."

Angie shook her head and blushed shyly. "Thanks for the compliment."

The librarian shook his head and cracked, "Always the flatterer, Rudy. Thanks though. If you'll excuse us."

"Sure, we'll talk later," his friend stated.

"Count on it," Frank added as the sextet moved into the crowd of people.

The group recognized several old faces immediately and gradually recalled old acquaintances despite the passage of the years. For the better part of an hour, they mingled and made their way around the room. Then at the back of the area, they met up with their fellow reporters from The White Knight, the school newspaper.

Garth stood up and walked over. "There you are! I was wondering when you get over here."

"Oh, chill out, Garth," Steve Petersen assured him, finishing a beer. "They had their public to catch up with." The slender man with short black hair greeted the others. "Good to see you all. Take a seat and relax."

"Steve," Dave replied pleasantly, shaking his friend's hand. "How's everything?"

"The usual tedious paperwork at headquarters," the FBI agent revealed. "Some day, I'll get my excitement, I guess. The FBI's not all its cracked up to be."

"Typical, Steve. Always wanting to get his head blown off," Garth teased. "You'll probably have more cases one day than you'll care for. Your day's coming."

"As it will for you too, Detective Singleton," April McKenzie giggled. "Dave, is this Angie?"

"Yes, I am," Angie noted, shaking hands with the other woman. "Nice to meet you."

"I told you, guys, she's a knock out," Garth interjected.

Angie flushed embarrassedly. Dave, you weren't kidding. Still, this is nice, I guess.

"Don't worry. This is their way of welcoming you into the group," Jolene assured her, casting a sly smile at the others.

"I know. I'm not used to this kind of attention," the resident agreed, still squirming a bit.

"Are you all right?" Dave asked.

"Sure," she assured him. "I just need to get used to being treated like this is all."

Mike sighed and shook his head. I really hurt her, didn't I?

"It's okay, Mike," Angie apologized. "I wasn't talking about you."

"Thanks," he expressed. "I really appreciate that."

"Get used to it, Princess," Dave told her, kissing her on the cheek.

Everyone clapped and whistled.

"Dave, honestly..." Angie squirmed yet again, but managed a smile nonetheless.

"And what do you think of this, Karen?" Adrienne Mitchell, her former rival, snickered as she approached the table. "Finally lost him, didn't you?"

Angie stared at the newcomer. "And you are?"

"Dave, aren't you going to introduce us?" the willowy woman inquired with a saucy air.

He shrugged. "Angie, this is Adrienne Mitchell, one of our classmates and another reporter from the Knight. Adrienne, this is my girlfriend, Angie Blackwell."

"The pleasure is all mine," Adrienne acknowledged with a hard look into the other woman's eyes. Better hang onto him tightly, Sweetie.

"I'll bet," Karen cut in, rolling her eyes. "So, how are tricks?"

Adrienne grinned, relishing this interchange. I knew she'd be like this. The smug little bitch. "Oh, I'm fine. I'm working for a genetics firm. It's good work if you can get it."

"I'm happy where I am. Thank you very much," the nurse countered, drawing close to her husband. "And, as for Dave and Angie, Mike and I helped to set them up." All the better if I can keep him away from you, Toots.

"Give it a rest, Adrienne," Dave advised firmly. "You really don't want to start with me right now."

"Oh, ever the gallant knight, aren't you? Now you have two damsels in distress to deal with. How ever do you find the time?" she baited. And never found the time for me.

Karen shook her head and studied the librarian carefully. She knew he was already dealing with the earlier events. This would set him off. "Okay. Back off now!"

"Was I talking to you?"

"You were talking to all three of us," Angie asserted, glaring into Adrienne's eyes and hissing, "You mess with them, you mess with me. Trust me, you don't want that. Just try me."

The other woman sighed and picked up her bag. "Some other time, we'll put that one to the test, Sweetie, that is if you can put up with him. Make sure she doesn't explode or break down crying, Dave. I don't want to clean up the mess."

Within himself, Dave felt the Child stirring, wanting to take his pound of flesh especially after being nearly fried earlier. No! I can deal with this!

So do it, Knucklehead! If not, Ah'm takin' her down mah way!

He frowned, fighting off the spasms and looking her in the eye. "You'd best leave. Sorry that things didn't work out between us, Adrienne, but I like ladies with beauty and brains and consideration. Guess that leaves you out, huh?"

She shuddered with rage. "Oooh!" With that, she stomped off.

Angie slumped into a chair and her eyes watered. "Why do people have to be like that?"

"It's a long story, Angie," Karen told her. "You did good in standing up to her like that."

"I wasn't going to let her take a shot at Dave. He's already dealt with enough from what I can gather," the doctor sniffled.

"That he has," April concurred, rubbing her arm. "But meeting you was a good thing." She smiled. "I agree with Karen. You're quite a person."

"Really? You think so?"

"I know so," Dave agreed. "I love you. Remember that, Angie. All right?"

She nodded, smiled, and gripped his hand. "Right. I meant what I said."

"And I meant what I just said," he told her. "Now, let me get you something to drink, all right?"

"Leave that to me," Steve told him. "This round's on me."

"Petersen's buying?" Frank laughed. "This has got to be a first."

"Stick it, Landers," the agent replied, a grin on his face. "Dave telling Adrienne off is something I've waited twelve years to see not to mention Angie's presence are reasons enough for it. Be right back."

****

The group talked for another hour, recounting things, telling stories, and laughing at old jokes. For the veterans, reliving some of the old times. For the newcomers, it was a way of getting dirt on their companions in a good way.

"So how did you and Angie meet, Dave?" Garth inquired. "You said it's a long story."

"It is. Got about twenty minutes?" the librarian replied, sipping on his Sam Adams.

"We have all night, Dave," April urged, setting her chin in her palms and letting her eyes shine at them.

Angie nodded. "Why not?"

They told their story, recounting the events between the first meeting in the McDonald's up to working the previous summer together at the beach.

"That is so sweet," April sighed, wiping her eyes off with a tissue. "If I ever get done writing this novel I'm working on, I want to write all about you two and your adventures."

"That's okay," Dave declined. "Why would anyone want to write about us anyway?"

"After some of the adventures we've had? Why indeed?" Steve slurred. "Never a dull moment around you, Dubie."

That's for sure, Karen mused to herself.

At that point, Rudy dimmed the lights and talked to them, recounting accomplishments great and small, dubious honors, and other great times. Then he started off on a theme that touched them all: couple break ups. "We voted amongst ourselves. The most tragic break up was Dave Dubois and Karen Alvarez. Sorry, guys, but after what you two went through in high school and then for him to cross the country only to find what he found-sorry, and no offense to your companions, but it's tragic."

Angie shook her head furiously. "Of all the things to say!"

Karen shrugged. "He's right, but what can we say?"

"Leave that to me," Dave asserted, getting up and walking toward the podium. "Excuse me, Rudy. Might I respond to this 'honor'?"

"Sure," he assented, sitting back down. Geez, he's going to lose it. April and I knew this was a bad idea, but the others wanted to do it.

"Thanks, Rudy," Dave replied and started into his piece. "Thank you, gang, for the dubious honor. However, we can't look at this from the negative. For Karen and myself, well-we tried to make our relationship work in one sense that it wasn't meant to be. We're still friends, all right, and always will be. I guess you can say that we're responsible for setting each other up. She was going to transfer back to BC when I talked her out of it. She met Mike the next day from what I understand. Then she arranged for me to be reunited with the wonderful woman I'm with tonight."

He stopped to look into her eyes and smile.

Then, after taking a sip of water, he continued, "There's nothing tragic about my friendships, gang. Maybe things don't work out. And maybe, if you're like me, you don't remember half of your life, but that's okay. You all pulled me through some of the toughest years of my life and helped me to survive my father."

He took a deep breath, fought back a shudder, and pressed ahead, "So, you see, while our break up did cause pain, it opened another phase of our friendship. In closing, I want to thank you all for your continued friendship. Have a great time! Thanks a lot!"

Frank stood up and started the applause. Everyone quickly joined in.

As Dave returned to the table, he slumped in his chair. "Whew!"

Karen leaned over and whispered to Mike, "That was some speech."

"Si. Tell him," her husband advised. Turning to the speaker, he inquired, "Feel better now? That was a helluva speech, Amigo."

"I do, but I guess the question needs to go to Karen and Angie," Dave replied.

"Much," Karen replied. "That took a tremendous amount of control on your part. Nice job."

"That was wonderful," she sighed allowing her eyes to glisten into his. "To think that you accomplished so much and come so far. The mention of me was...nice too." She kissed him.

"Congrats, Dubie," Garth complimented. "Way to go, Dude."

The others toasted him as well, raising their glasses to his happiness as well as their own.

"Now, if you don't mind, Angie, I believe we need to dance? Rudy! Music!" Dave called.

"Right away, Dubie. Nice to see some things don't change," the class president joked as he motioned to the DJ to start playing.

"Now, Princess. Ready?" Dave invited, holding out his hand.

"Absolutely!" she agreed, kicking off her heels and taking his hand.

"Song?" the DJ asked.

" 'Imagination' from the Flashdance soundtrack," Angie suggested. "I know what you like, Dave. Let's see how you handle this!"

He shrugged and grinned as Laura Branigan's voice filled the room. "You asked for it."

"Big talk. Let's see you do it!" she challenged, moving to the music.

He shook his head and kept time with her. For the next several songs and well into the night, this pace continued.

Finally at midnight, the party broke up and everyone started for the exits. Dave and the others exchanged phone numbers and addresses.

"See you guys soon," Dave promised.

"We'll hold you to that, Dubie," they chorused back.

"I'll find my way down there at some point," Garth added.

"Do that," the librarian affirmed. "We'll have another adventure maybe a little tamer this time."

"Yeah. It was nice meeting you, Angie," he stated walking toward the parking lot.

She smiled. "You are a good dancer. Karen mentioned that, but you took my breath away."

"I do that, don't I? Well so do you...for me that is," he remarked leading her out of the high school where the others were waiting for us. "It was some evening, wasn't it?"

"That it was. Before we all head back, do you guys want to get breakfast?" Karen inquired.

Everyone agreed and then went their separate ways.

****

Upon getting back to their room, Dave and Angie stumbled in drowsily. It had been a long day and they were both exhausted.

He felt his way for the bathroom in the darkness. After finally finding it, he brushed his teeth and changed back into his sweats. Before he went to bed, he wondered where she was.

Then a snore hit his ears. She had fallen asleep as soon as her head had hit the pillow.

Sleep well, Princess. He kissed her softly on the cheek before climbing into his own bed.

Conclusion

Early the next morning, they rose and showered before joining their friends for breakfast at IHOP.

"Hi, guys!" Frank greeted. "Everyone's waiting."

"Well, well, look who's finally here," Mike cracked.

"Hush!" Karen advised but with a smile on her face. "Let's eat."

They did so and then went their separate ways.

Dave looked at Angie and told her, "We have one more stop to make."

"Okay," she agreed.

They drove to the Amherst cemetery. There, he stopped next to his grandmother's grave.

She inspected Janet Dubois' tombstone. "This is your grandmother? From what Karen says, she was a big part of your life."

"She was," he sighed and felt himself starting to cry.

"Hey. It's okay," she assured, embracing him. "Thank you for sharing this and everything else with me. This has been great."

Even if I nearly killed her in the process? "The past is past, Angie. Now we have the present and the future."

"And we can still remember those who are dear to us in the process, Handsome," she advised. "Excuse me, Mrs. Dubois." She kissed him lovingly.

Even as they shared that kiss, he knew she was right. Maybe the past was past and now was now, but they had each other. That was all that mattered.

THE END (for now)

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