Happily Ever After

Darlene Jones

Five months! thought Catherine. Five months since Vincent had beenso ill and she had gone into the cave to try to save him. After,Vincent had lost his memory. He had known she was the woman he loved,but he had not even remembered her name! He never came to her balconyanymore and she missed that terribly. But worst of all, he had losthis connection to her. He could no longer feel everything that shewas feeling when she did. Maybe that was for the best she thoughtconsidering the state of her feelings these past months. Then againmaybe not!

Vincent was better now, at peace, but she sure wasn't. And shecould no longer delay telling him the other part of it. Catherine'sthoughts were interrupted by Joe. "Hey Radcliff, what are you lookingso intense about?

"Just trying to make a decision."

"You ok?" he asked and she could tell he was worried.

"I'll be fine Joe."

"You know how late it is? Go home, Radcliff."

"Actually, I'm going to meet Jenny for dinner. Good night Joe. Seeyou tomorrow."

Glancing at her watch, Catherine grabbed her coat and followed Joeout the door. She hurried home to change for dinner. She had promisedto meet Jenny at her office and she was going to be late. She arrivedsomewhat breathlessly, "Hi, Jen." she called. Jenny gave her a quickhug then stepped back and surveyed her intently.

"What?" asked Catherine.

"You look radiant. How do you do it?" replied Jenny.

Catherine laughed. "Thank you Jen, just lucky I guess."

Later as they were having dessert and the conversation had dieddown Jenny asked her what was wrong. "What do you mean?" askedCatherine.

"Its hard to explain, but Cath, for the past few months you'vebeen... I don't know... kind of distracted I guess. Cathy, we've beenfriends for years but ever since your 'accident' you've beensecretive." She held up her hand as Catherine started to protest."Its ok, I know there is someone in your life, and I'm not trying tobe nosy. But, this is different." She paused and then added, "Cathyis there anything I can do to help?"

Catherine sighed, "Jen you are a wonderful friend, but no, this isone time you can't help. I have something I need to do and I'm notquite sure how I'm going to do it, but I'll find a way and I'll befine."

"Does it have something to do with your man? " Catherine onlynodded. Jenny sighed with her own frustration of not being able tohelp. "Its getting late, we better go." she added. Catherine noddedagain, they paid their bill, hugged and went their separate ways.

As Catherine walked home she continued to debate with herself.This is ridiculous she muttered under her breath. I'm going to changeand go see him right now. She quickened her pace.

Catherine entered her apartment and headed straight to her closet.She spun around as she heard a tapping on the terrace door. It wasVincent! She flew to open the doors and into his arms. "How did youknow I wanted to see you?" she asked.

"I felt something."

"Our connection is back?" she asked incredulously.

"No, not exactly, I don't know ... I felt something, somethingvery different, a throbbing perhaps. I knew it had to do with you soI came."

Catherine slowly released her breath. She hadn't even known shehad been holding it. "Vincent, there is something different.Something special. I was coming to tell you." He inclined his head tolisten. "No, not here. In your chamber. Meet me below, I'll be rightthere." Vincent looked curious but didn't argue. A few minutes laterthey met below her building. Vincent reached for her hand. She tookit smiling happily - even giggled a little. Vincent looked surprisedand questioningly at her. She just grinned, tugged his hand andstarted to run.

They were both somewhat breathless when they arrived at hischamber and fell laughing on his bed. Well, its now or never thoughtCatherine. She took a deep breath to steady herself and stood infront of him. "Vincent close your eyes and give me your hand." Whenhe did as she asked, Catherine opened her coat, took his hand andplaced it on the swelling abdomen she had kept carefully hidden thislast while under loose clothes. Now, only the very thin fabric of hernegligee was between his hand and her skin. Vincent's eyes flew open."Close your eyes." she said. "And wait. There, did you feel that?What did it feel like?"

"A sort of flutter." he replied and his eyes flew open inastonishment. "A baby, that is what I felt. A baby!"

"Not just a baby Vincent, our baby." Catherine said softly.

Vincent hardly dared to say it, hardly dared to believe it, tohope. "Then, that night in the cave? It was not a dream? It wasreal?"

"Oh yes, it was real, it was very real!" Catherine repliedhappily.

"You mean we can ...? " Vincent did not finish the question. Hecould see the answer in Catherine's eyes. He moved toward her, gentlybrushed her hair to the side, looked deeply into her eyes and bent tokiss her. Catherine met him eagerly. This was what she had waitedfive months for. She was ecstatic. The waiting was over.

Vincent broke away. "Don't move." he ordered as he went to securethe chamber.

"I didn't know you had doors." said Catherine somewhatincredulously.

Vincent looked over his shoulder at her with a twinkle in his eye,"I never needed them before," he replied. Catherine laugheddelightedly. Vincent closed the second entrance to his chamber andturned back to Catherine. He drew in his breath sharply. She hadremoved her coat and was wearing a beautiful floor lengthnegligée - a rather revealing negligee at that. As he movedslowly toward her she slipped one strap off her shoulder and then theother and let the gown fall to the floor. "Oh, Catherine." was all hecould say and it came out in a reverent whisper. She held out herarms and Vincent scooped her up and carried her to his bed.

Later, Vincent woke with a start and reached for Catherine. Whenhe realized she was not beside him he panicked and cried out hername. "I'm right here Vincent." Catherine reassured him. She wassitting curled up in his big chair her coat wrapped tightly aroundher.

"What are you doing?" he asked as he rose, went to her and knealtin front of her.

"I was watching you sleep and thinking. There was a time when Ithought I would never be able to spend the night with you, to wake upand be with you and not have to leave, not have to go homealone."

Vincent stood slowly, reached for her hands, pulled her to herfeet and engulfed her in a hug. She could feel him trembling. Shepulled back a little and looked up into his face. "What is it?" sheasked. Vincent looked into her eyes for a moment and then drew hereven closer and hugged her even tighter.

"Catherine, do you know what you have given me?" he asked, thenanswered his own question. "How could you possibly know? For you,this part of love was always a possibility. For me it was never apossibility - until you, until now. Catherine, I have no words totell you what this truly means, to thank..." Catherine put her handto his lips.

"Sush," she whispered. "There is no need for words." And shereached up to kiss him.

"Again?" he asked tentatively looking down at her. She nodded,suddenly shy, then looked up and said happily, "Again and again andagain Vincent. As many 'agains' as we want!" Vincent picked Catherineup and spun her about as she laughed like a child and carried her tohis bed. He chuckled as he bent down to kiss her.

When Vincent woke the second time it was to find Catherine stillasleep beside him. He lay perfectly still marveling at the feeling ofher body curled next to his, marveling that, what was for otherlovers, was now theirs. He was almost afraid to feel too deeply, toointently lest it all be lost but he couldn't help himself. He pulledCatherine tighter as she stirred in his embrace and waited patientlyfor her to wake also.

"Catherine, put your coat on. There is a place I want to take you,something we have to do."

"What about the others?" she asked.

"They are all asleep. Come" he said as he held out his hand toher. Vincent took her to the secret pools, the place he swam as achild, the place they had visited once when Catherine was overwhelmedwith the grief of her father's death. This was to be a very differentvisit he thought. And it was! They swam together, splashed eachother, laughed, kissed and loved again.

Back in his chamber, they dried off, ate breakfast and had sometea. They both felt a wonderful lassitude that neither wanted todisturb. They sat in comfortable silence and Vincent found he couldnot take his eyes off Catherine. He knew that he would marvel at thisnight forever.

Catherine felt as Vincent and knew, that as much as she hated todisturb the wonderful feelings held in their silence, she would haveto be the first to speak. She had planned her words carefully, butVincent spoke first. "Catherine, about our child - what if...?" Heleft the thought unspoken.

"Vincent, I have thought of this. I have thought of everythingthis can mean to us and to our child." she replied. "After all, Ihave had a bit more time than you to get used to the idea. You wereso ill. You needed time to recover, to be yourself once more before Icould come to you with this."

"But, what if he or she is ...?"

"Like you?" interrupted Catherine. "And what if he or she is likeme? Vincent, we have created a life. We will raise this child inlove, with love and surrounded by love."

Vincent relaxed somewhat at her words and began to feel that theycould dream as any parents would. They talked for hours and Catherinesurprised Vincent with the details of her planning and with herwisdom. Then he chastised himself. Why was he surprised? Catherinehad continually astonished him with her love, her trust in him, herintelligence. Why should this be any different? She had lived in bothworlds for almost three years now. She had kept his secret and himsafe. She was his life and he understood that he was hers and nowthey would have a child to love. They would truly be a family!

"Father, its almost dinner time and Vincent's door is stillclosed." complained Jamie.

"That's right." said Mary. "Shouldn't you go to him?"

"Vincent never closed his door before. Didn't know he had a door."added Mouse.

"I know." said Father. "But there must be a good reason and wemust wait for him to come to us. Remember he was so very ill for solong. This new need for privacy may be a part of the healing."replied Father but the others could tell he was very worried. "Now,run along. It is time for dinner. I'll be there soon." He didn'tfollow them immediately. Instead he sat for some time absentmindedlyplaying with his glasses debating Mary's suggestion. Several timesduring the day he had started towards Vincent's chamber but somethingheld him back and now he didn't know what to do.

"Father, we have come to tell you something." Father turned to seeVincent and Catherine standing together and he knew that there was aspecialness about this.

"Father, we are going to have a baby." Vincent said softly. Fatherwas stunned and it showed.

"But when, how?" he stammered.

"In four months." answered Vincent. Catherine said nothing, onlywaited.

Father fell back into his chair, a whoosh of breath escaping as herealized the full import of this news. "That night in the cave?" hehardly dared voice the question. Catherine nodded. There was a longmoment of silence. "But what if...?"

"Don't say it!" Catherine almost shouted and he could feel heremerging anger at what he had been about to say. Vincent too wasstunned at the violence of Catherine's reaction. He started to speakand then thought better of it. "This child saved Vincent's life! Thischild was conceived in love! And this child will be raised in love!Here or in both worlds!" She paused to draw breath and said moresoftly as her anger began to dissipate. "You must be happy for us.You are our only parent and you will be his only grandparent."

Father looked from her to Vincent who inclined his head in accordwith Catherine. It was a long time before he spoke and the tensionswere palpable. "Catherine you are right. Can you forgive me? Please?"he almost begged.

Catherine nodded slowly and the tensions broke. Father movedtoward her tentatively and they embraced. Immediately Father becamethe doctor and asked her about her health, her diet and her exercise.Catherine laughed as she indulged him answering in detail and smiledhappily at Vincent.

"Father," Vincent interrupted at one point, "Catherine wishes tostay here until the baby is born and she wishes for you and Peter tohelp deliver our child."

"I am truly honoured," said Father and I know Peter will betoo.

Later that evening Pascal put out a message on the pipes and theentire community gathered in Father's chamber. Vincent told them ofthe baby. There was a moment of silence and then it seemed thateveryone spoke at once. Even as he was bombarded with advice from themen,. "Watch out for the mood swings." warned crusty old William,"I'll make you a cradle," offered Canan, Vincent watched delightedlyas the women and children clustered around Catherine. They were fullof advice, concern and from the children many questions. "Can Ibaby-sit?" asked Jamie. "I'll make toys." offered Mouse. "I have lotsof baby clothes." said Olivia. "And I'm sure Canan will make you acradle."

Eric looked at Catherine somberly. "If the baby is a girl will youname her Elly?" he asked.

Catherine glanced at Vincent who nodded and she replied. "Yes,Eric we will."

Eric threw his arms around Catherine's neck. "She could be alittle sister for me," he said, "and I could take care of her the wayElly took care of me."

Catherine sighed as she remembered the lovely girl who had died inthe epidemic. "Elly would be very proud of you Eric. If the baby is aboy will you still help us take care of him?" she askedseriously.

"Of course." said Eric.

Eventually, Vincent and Catherine were able to withdraw slightly."You look tired," said Vincent. Catherine smiled at his concern andadmitted she was.

"Let's slip out and return to your chamber." she suggested.

"Our chamber." he replied and kissed the top of her head.

Catherine looked up to see Vincent smiling proudly at thiscorrection. She felt warm with the wonderful feelings of security,belonging, caring and love. "Our chamber." she echoed as they quietlyslipped away from the excited group.

2

Catherine woke Monday in her own bed and groaned. She had to go towork and she really wanted to be below with Vincent. Well, that willcome soon she thought and wondered how Joe would react to the newsthat she was taking a six month leave.

Not well, it turned out. "Radcliff, you can't! You know how busywe are! Besides, you can't be replaced!" Joe was upset. He could notimagine the office without her.

He had been so suspicious and leery of her when she first asked towork in the DA's office. The rich kid trying to be a do do-gooder.Later, he could not understand why she would have left her father'sprestigious law office to come to the drudgery and incredible workload of what they did in the DA's office. He still didn't reallyunderstand why she had made the switch, nor did he understand why shehadn't gone back to the firm when her father died. Joe knew that hadbeen an option for her.

But, Cathy had stayed and they had become true friends. There weretimes when Joe wished that friendship would or could be more. Infact, Joe thought, he wasn't upset about the work but because of thesecrets Cathy kept. He was jealous he realized in a moment of beinghonest with himself. There was someone in Catherine's life - she wasso secretive about him. Maybe this leave has to do with him Joethought. Lucky guy!

"Hell Radcliff. If you need the time take it." he smiled ruefully."Sorry for flying off like that."

"I understand," replied Catherine. And she did. She knew Joe was alittle in love with her. "Joe, I will be back. You are my bestfriend. I could never leave you and I am only going away for awhilebecause I have to."

"I know." he answered and he too understood that friendship wasall he would have form her and he was grateful for that. "When, doyou want to start your leave?"

"Next week?"

"Well, then Radcliff, get to work. You will have to finish thedepositions you are working on and brief Ted and an intern to takeover. Can you get it all done in a week?" She nodded as she camearound her desk to hug him.

"Thank you Joe. I'm going away so I won't talk to you until I getback. Don't worry about me. I'll be with family."

Telling Jenny was harder. "But Cathy, we have been friends sincewe were little. We have never gone six months without seeing oneanother. And what family?" she demanded. "You have never talked aboutaunts or uncles or cousins!" Catherine was only able to calm her withpromises that she would write often and call if there was a need.

It was much easier to tell Peter of course as he had been a Helperfrom the beginning and he was delighted to be asked to assist at thebirth. He was relieved when she said she was taking a leave andstaying below. He knew she would be well cared for and protected.Even so, he promised to check in on her regularly.

The remainder of the week was a whirlwind of activity forCatherine. She worked daily with Ted and the intern, all the whilekeeping Joe informed of progress. She also managed to slip in someshopping for maternity and baby clothes and packed the other thingsshe thought she would need.

3

"Hi Joe, its Jenny. I've had another letter from Cathy."

"How is she?" he asked. "No wait a minute - I've got six thingsgoing at once here. Why don't we meet for dinner?"

"I'd love to. I'll bring the letter and you can read it foryourself." She smiled happily as she hung up. She liked Joe, likedhim a lot and wondered why Cathy had never tried to fix them up.

Joe looked up from the letter. "She sounds different." he said."Happy."

"That's what I thought." replied Jenny. "But there is stillsomething strange. I've had how many - four letters from her and shesounds happy in all of them - almost purring like a contented kitten,but none of the letters had a postmark so I still don't know whereshe is."

"She told both of us she was going to be with family, but youdon't think she has any living relatives?"

"I'm pretty sure not." replied Jenny. "In all the time I knew hershe never talked about anyone other than her mother and father."

"She promised she'd be back in six months and she sounds fine inher letters so much as I hate it I guess we'll just have to bepatient," muttered Joe. Jenny grinned at his frowning countenance."What?" he asked.

"Actually, I shouldn't laugh at you. I feel the very same way."

Meanwhile, Catherine was oblivious to all in the world above andhappy to be so. She went for long walks in the park with Vincent. Sheeven continued her running in the very early mornings with Vincent onguard. While Vincent worked with Father and the others keeping thetunnels in good repair or bringing food she sewed baby clothes andeven learned to knit! She told Vincent she was knitting a babyblanket but really she was working on a sweater for him. And theytalked. Oh, how they talked! For hours, day and night. The bliss havehaving time together that was not measured in minutes awed them both.

Vincent surprised her one day with a chess set he and Mouse hadmade for the baby. "Really Vincent, don't you think that is a bitpremature?" Catherine teased. But Vincent insisted it was never tooearly to begin and in this Father backed him totally. Vincent alsowent through all of Father's books - no mean task considering theirnumber - searching for the stories he wanted to read to their baby.He hounded the helpers to find him more. Really, he's becomingsomething of a pest thought Catherine with a smile. A totally lovablepest she admitted.

Father and Peter were even more trouble, both constantly checkingto see that she was all right until she wanted to scream. Vincentwould smile at her and wink and she would regain her patience withthem.

She and Vincent also spent hours discussing possible names.Catherine was sure the baby would be a boy. Vincent was less certainand she suspected he really wanted a daughter although he would neversay. Vincent was very indulgent with her in all things but he didmake one request - a very unusual request coming from him. She arguedwith him but he insisted and when he explained his reasoningCatherine acquiesced.

And then the baby came - readily, easily with a wonderfullyhealthy cry. He was perfect. Vincent and Catherine were both toohappy to speak but the others were more than willing to make up forthat. Father and Peter were boastful - as if they themselves hadproduced this wonder. The children all wanted turns holding him -until he started to cry that is. Then they all thought he was justlike Vincent who had cried for three days straight when found andbrought to Father. The adults began to plan the naming ceremony andfinally they all left.

"Just the three of us, at last." said Catherine.

"A family," replied Vincent. "Do you realize Catherine, that I hadFather and the others and then, I found you, but until this moment Inever really had a family?"

"I know," she said looking up at him holding their child in herarms. She reached one hand to caress his cheek. She pulled him towardher and kissed him gently. Vincent raised himself slightly and lookeddown at her. They were motionless for a long time. Then Catherinespoke, "Vincent there have been many times when I have been happy andcontent with you but never have I been happier than I am at thismoment."

"I can feel it." He responded.

"You can! Our connection is back?!"

"Yes, I felt it the moment our baby was born."

"Then the miracle of his birth is even greater than either of usthought?"

Vincent nodded and moved to lie carefully beside her. He placedhis arm under her head as a pillow. "You have always been rightCatherine. With love all things are possible. If I had an eternity,it would not be enough time to love you," whispered Vincent more tohimself than to Catherine as a tear rolled down his cheek. She heardand cried but they were tears of pure bliss.

4

"Where can I find Mr. Maxwell?" asked the courier. Thereceptionist gestured behind her towards his office. "You'reMaxwell?" asked the courier. Joe nodded. "Message for you. Told meits personal and its urgent. Sign here." Joe signed and tore open theenvelope, curious now, as personal messages at work just didn'thappen. The message read simply,

Urgent. Meet me at the corner of Fifth and Main at 8 tonight.Peter.

Joe couldn't think of anyone he knew named Peter and threw thenote in the trash. A few minutes later Jenny called. "Joe, I just gotthe strangest message brought by courier." Jenny didn't know it butshe now had Joe's full attention.

"Read it to me."

"It says Urgent. Meet me at the corner of Fifth and Main at 8tonight. And its signed Peter."

"I got the very same message a few minutes ago and was going toignore it but not now."

"What do you think it means?" asked Jenny.

"I don't know. I'll pick you up at 7:30 and we'll find out."

Joe and Jenny arrived at the corner early, curious and a bitnervous. Joe kept checking for traps and Jenny searched each face inthe crowd for someone familiar.

"Thank you for coming." The voice behind made them both jump. Myname is Peter Alcott, the distinguished looking gentleman introducedhimself. "Please join me for a coffee so I can explain." Joe andJenny looked at each other in puzzlement as they followed him in to asmall cafe. There was something familiar about him but Joe couldn'tput his finger on it.

"I have asked you here tonight because there is someone you mustmeet and a place you need to see." began Peter.

"Who?" asked Joe suspiciously.

"Please, let me explain. The man you will meet is Jacob Wells. Heand I became good friends when we were in medical school. Over 40years ago Jacob was blacklisted by the un-American Activitiescommittee."

"That was serious stuff," Jenny interrupted. "Why was he asuspect?"

"Jacob worked for the Chittiton Institute. He lobbied for a haltto nuclear testing. He testified that the bombs were being set off infront of our own soldiers."

"And of course that was the wrong attitude at the time," Joeinterjected.

"Exactly." replied Peter.

"One of my university courses focused on that era." Jenny told thetwo men. "From what I learned it must have been pretty brutal. Whathappened to him?"

"He lost everything. His career, his reputation and worst of all,for him, his wife. They were very much in love and Margaret believedhe was innocent but her father was Chittiton institute and he decidedJacob was guilty."

"The poor guy wouldn't have had a chance under thosecircumstances." Joe vocalized the thought for all of them.

"No. Margaret's father had the marriage annulled and took her toParis. For Jacob, that was the final blow."

"But what happened? Where is he now? Why do you want us to meethim?" The heartbreak of Jacob's story made Jenny anxious for him andmore curious than ever for herself and Joe.

"Come, I'll show you and let him tell you the rest of the storyhimself." Peter led them from the restaurant, down the street to analley, into the back door of a building, and down the stairs to apile of boxes. He moved the boxes to reveal a hidden door. "Jamie iswaiting below. She will take you to Jacob." Joe and Jenny stared atPeter.

"What is this? Joe was suspicious.

"You have to trust me. This is very important. I can't tell youmore than that. I'm sorry." said Peter.

Then Joe grinned at Jenny. "This is too much. There is no way I'mbacking out now. You?"

Jenny shook her head. "I'm with you." Joe took her hand and theydescended the stairs to see a young girl waiting for them.

"Hi," she said brightly. "I'm Jamie and I'm supposed to show youthe tunnels and take you to Father."

She started off briskly and they had no choice but to follow. Theconstant tapping she said was their system of communication - a sortof Morse code on the pipes. She also explained how the entrances andsecurity and sentries worked, but wouldn't answer any otherquestions. "Father will tell you." was all she would say.

"I know about people living in the steam tunnels under theWaldorf-Astoria." Joe told Jenny, "but I thought they were all movedout and this is much more extensive."

Before Jenny could reply they rounded a corner and were in theentrance of a huge room filled with an incredible assortment of"stuff" but it was the books that drew their attention. They wereeverywhere! "Father, we're here." called Jamie and promptly left.

Father turned and descended the stairs from his loft. "Thank youJamie. Mr. Maxwell, Miss Aaronson please be seated." He gestured totwo chairs at his table and offered them tea. "Thank you for coming.I wasn't sure you would. The circumstances are somewhat unusual."

"Wild horses couldn't have kept us away after we heard your storyand especially after Peter took us to the tunnels." was Joe'scomment.

"What is this all about?" asked Jenny.

"Peter told you how I lost everything?" They both nodded. "I wasleft wandering the streets not caring if I lived or died. A younggirl found me and brought me here. It was a place she and some othershad come to for refuge. And after my experiences above it was exactlythe escape I needed. We, all those of us here at the time, bandedtogether and began to build a community where we could all be safe.We have been here ever since

"Living under the city all this time?" Jenny was incredulous. "Buthow, food, money, clothes, how?"

"We live on what your world casts aside and we have helpers. Theyprovide what they can."

Joe interrupted. "Helpers like Peter." It was a statement not aquestion.

"And you help them," added Jenny and this was not a questioneither.

Father nodded and then continued. "Some are born here and remainforever. Some come for a time to heal their wounds before they returnabove. Others go to school, get jobs and become helpers. Each has hisor her own reasons and needs." Father gave them some time to absorbwhat they had seen and heard. Then he added emphatically. "Can youunderstand this? It is very important that you do."

There was a long silence. Jenny and Joe looked around the chamberagain, then at each other somewhat helplessly. Jenny, who by naturewas a sympathetic person, was the first to answer. "I feel like Ihave time traveled to some sort of medieval castle or something." shesaid looking around the room. "It is hard for me to understandbecause I have come from a comfortable and safe life, but yes, Ithink I can see why this would be a choice for some."

Father nodded with understanding of Jenny's conflicting thoughtsand emotions and looked at Joe. Joe was much more cynical than Jennyand had more difficulty with all of it. He was not ready toacknowledge even to himself that this was a place where he might havefound refuge. Nor would he admit this was a man to whom he could haveexpressed his feelings and his doubts for instinctively he trustedJacob. Finally he spoke. "I don't know what to think or feel. I haveworked for the DA's office for years and so part of me is angry thatI never knew about this 'second city' in a world where I am supposedto have a grip on things, know what is going on." Joe's burst ofanger continued. "What do you want from us? Why are you showing usall this now?" he demanded.

"Because Vincent and Catherine asked me to."

"Catherine?" Joe and Jenny exclaimed simultaneously.

"She's here? Where? We want to see her?" Jenny added.

"That is why you are here." Father replied patiently and gesturedfor them to follow as he led them to Catherine and Vincent's chamber.Joe and Jenny looked around them in awe. This room was even morefantastic than the first, crammed with objects of all sorts, and evenmore books, but still maintaining a certain dignity. Jenny is right,thought Joe; this place does have a medieval quality.

"It's like a fairy tale," breathed Jenny. Joe could only nod inagreement. Then they saw Catherine emerge from the shadows. She waswearing a pale pink knit dress of some sort with a angora over collarset with pearls - very old fashioned, thought Jenny, but perfect forthis room and she looked lovely.

"She looks like she belongs here," said Joe not understanding whythat thought made him feel both happy and sad. Jenny didn't hear.She was rushing to Catherine, hugging, laughing, half crying andbursting with questions. Joe wasn't far behind with his own hugs andquestions.

Catherine laughed with them. "If you'll both slow down, we'llexplain everything. But first there is someone you have to meet." Sheadded this last in a serious tone. Catherine moved into the shadowsbriefly and returned with her baby. "I'd like you to meet my son."she said simply.

Joe and Jenny were stunned. "Cathy you kept secrets, but I had noidea!" sputtered Jenny.

"Cathy, you've pulled some stunts - but this?" Joe paused. "Youare full of surprises, Radcliff. You never cease to amaze!" The twoof them clustered around Catherine and admired the wonderful child. Joe knew he might be pushing the limits with Cathy but he had to ask."Why here, Cathy?" and he gestured to the room.

Catherine looked at them both for a moment. "Joe, Jenny ... pleasesit down." They took two chairs and she curled up in Vincent's bigchair across from them with her baby. "I'm not sure where to begin."she paused.

Vincent began for her - a voice only, from the shadows. "The nightCatherine was attacked... the men who attacked her left her in thepark to die. I found her. She was unconscious and bleeding badly. Ibrought her here. She had broken ribs and lacerations on her face.Father cared for her"

"My face was bandaged. I was afraid... afraid of this place,afraid I was blind, afraid of being attacked. Vincent cared for me.He read to me, brought me tea and talked to me. He helped to take thefears away." That soothing voice alone would do it thought Jenny. Anywoman would love that voice.

"Ten days later I took her back to her apartment." Vincentpaused.

"I had plastic surgery and returned to work. But I knew I had todo something with my life. So eight months later I came to apply atthe DA's office."

"And I thought you were just some rich kid playing the do-gooder."said Joe ruefully.

Catherine chuckled then sobered. "I left Vincent believing I wouldnever see him again and the thought was more than I could bear. Not aday passed that I didn't think of him or want to see him, but I hadno idea of how to find him. I went below my building many times butthe tunnels were too confusing - a maze and I knew I would quickly belost."

"I knew from the moment I found Catherine in the park that I lovedher." said Vincent. "I knew it was impossible. I also knew I had tosee her again. I went to Catherine's terrace, thinking only to leavea gift."

"I wouldn't let him go," said Catherine. "I couldn't! We sat onthe terrace and talked all night and Vincent told me somethingwonderful ... special."

"I don't know how it happened or even why," said Vincent. "Fromthe moment I knew I loved Catherine I could feel what she wasfeeling. I knew when she was happy or sad or afraid. I knew."

"Cathy, didn't that make you feel like you had no privacy," askedJenny, slightly

shocked.

"Vincent knew what I was feeling, but not what I was thinking."replied Catherine. "And I trusted him and knew he trusted me. I feltsafe and loved." she added simply.

There was silence and the baby started to cry a little. Catherinerose to rock him and Jenny went with her. Joe got up and wandered theroom restlessly considering all that he had heard. Then he spottedthe painting. "My God, Vincent!"

"Yes, that is me!" Joe spun around to face him.

"No wonder you are down here." The two men studied each otherwarily. "How did this happen to you?"

"I don't know." replied Vincent quietly. "I don't believe I'llever know."

After a time Joe asked. "You and Catherine have kept this secretfor three years. Why show us now?"

"Vincent insisted." said Catherine coming up behind Joe and shecould tell this surprised him. They all looked to Vincent toexplain.

"The secrecy of our relationship has been a burden Catherine hashad to bear. Always she has me and Father and the others down here,but she is the one who must go above and tell no one. She is the onewho must be alone up there"

"There was a time when I wanted to live here, in Vincent's world,but he wouldn't let me."

"Why not?" asked Jenny.

"Because Catherine is a woman of both worlds. To deny that wouldbe to diminish what she is. Now Catherine will go above with ourson." Vincent paused and looked at Joe and Jenny. "Catherine needs afamily above too. A family who knows about this place, about me."

"Why us?" asked Joe.

"Jenny, you have been my best friend since we were children. Joe,we met after I began my new life with Vincent and you are the mostimportant friend I have above in this new life. Will you be my familyabove?" Catherine asked them both.

Joe looked at Jenny, put his arm around her waist and drew hernear. They both looked at Vincent and then to Catherine. "Yes." theyreplied together.

"My very own 'topsiders'," enthused Catherine. "There is one morething."

"When a child is born we have a naming ceremony. The wholecommunity gathers in Father's chamber." Vincent explained.

"We would like you to be here." said Catherine. "Fridayevening."

Joe and Jenny agreed. Then, Jamie arrived to guide them out. Therewas a flurry of good-bye hugs and promises to return on Friday.

When all was calm again Vincent looked at Catherine questioningly.She smiled. "You were right Vincent. I feel better already knowingthat I will have a family above." Vincent moved toward her, pickedher and the baby up and carried them to his chair where he held themin his lap. Really, I seem to be making a habit of this he thought.He looked down at Catherine holding their son, curled against him,eyes closed, almost asleep. He was sure she didn't mind!

5

"Can you believe it?" asked Joe.

"We're just a block from my apartment." said Jenny in amazement asshe looked about.

"My god, this explains so much." said Jenny as they began to walk."The secrecy."

"The witnesses who found her." said Joe, thinking of the deafgirl, Laura who had testified in the murder of a policeman.

"All the concerts in the park she was always going to withsomeone." added Jenny.

"But she didn't have a date for the Mayors Ball." Joe added. Thenhe abruptly stopped walking. "The time she almost drowned. She waswearing a strange cloak. Do you remember? She said someone had givenit to her to keep warm" He paused. "It had to have been Vincent's.Jenny, you dreamt she died! She didn't only because Vincent savedher. It must have been him! The trunk of the car was torn right off!He must have done that!" Joe was stunned at the thought.

"I think he would be capable of that," said Jenny after somethought. "You can sense his power even when he is perfectly still.And Joe, that night, when you left, Cathy insisted I leave too. Shesaid she wouldn't be alone. Vincent must have come to her."

"Elliot Burch never had a chance." said Joe. And this made himglad. He had never trusted or liked the man.

Slowly they continued walking and talking. They speculated aboutVincent of course but if he himself couldn't explain, they soonrealized their attempts to find answers were futile. Catherine hadaccepted him as he was and for her, they would too.

It was nearly dawn. They were in front of Jenny's apartment. Forsome minutes they were both lost in their own thoughts. Then Joe bentto kiss her good night. To his surprise the kiss became much morethan one of friendship. Jenny, too, was startled by the depth offeeling in that kiss. They drew back from each other shyly."Goodnight.' Jenny said softly and turned to enter her building. Shewas smiling. Joe watched the door close behind her and let out awhoop of delight. Well what do you know he thought. I like her! Ilike her a lot! I wonder why Radcliff never tried to fix us up? Andhe headed home on light feet

Joe and Jenny stood together at the naming ceremony unabashedlysurveying the crowd. There were close to a hundred people Joeguessed. And then he spotted Peter and recognition came. He's thedoctor who delivered Cathy he told Jenny remembering the 'first timeI met her' story. Even more pieces were falling into place.

Father was speaking. "We welcome this child with love that he mayknow love. We welcome this child with gifts that he may knowgenerosity. Have you chosen a name?" he asked looking to Vincent andCatherine.

"We have." replied Vincent. "His name is Jacob Maxwell Chandler."Most did not know Father's name so did not understand thesignificance of the choice. But Father did and his pleasure wasobvious. And Joe is thrilled thought Catherine and when she winked athim, he beamed. "They are both pleased, I think." Vincent said toCatherine in an aside as everyone crowded around excitedly with theirgifts.

"And proud," Catherine added, her eyes still on Joe.

Later Father found Vincent alone. "Thank you for the honour." hesaid simply.

"It was Catherine's wish," replied Vincent.

"That makes it an even greater honour." said Father thoughtfullyremembering all that Catherine had done for Vincent and grateful thatshe had given him a life never dreamed possible.

It was some time before Joe could capture a minute alone withCatherine. "Radcliff, I don't know how to thank you."

"Vincent insisted." she replied.

"He did?" Joe was incredulous. "Why?"

"Because he trusts you. He likes you. He knows are my true friendand he knows you have a good heart." Joe beamed at Catherine and shegrinned back.

"No one had ever paid me a higher compliment." he told her withtrue sincerity.

Finally the party began to break up. There were only the twocouples and Father in his chamber. Jenny and Catherine were fussingover little Jacob. Joe turned to Vincent and held out his hand."Thank you for the honour. I will not let you or Cathy down," hesaid.

"I know." replied Vincent and the two men shook hands firmly.

6

"Hi Joe, I'm back." said Cathy from his office doorway. Joe jumpedup to greet her, giving her a quick kiss on the cheek.

"Radcliff you look great, but are you sure you should be here?It's only been a couple of months since your baby was born."

"I'm sure Joe. I'm ready and Jake is fine below with Vincent andthe others. He couldn't have better care you know."

"Tell you what Radcliff. For the first few months we'll cut yourcase load in half and I won't take no for an answer."

"Thanks Joe. That would help a lot but I didn't want to ask. Well,I better get to work. Ted is waiting to bring me up to date."

"One more thing. No more field work for you."

"You can't do that!" protested Catherine.

"Like hell I can't. I'm still the boss." Joe was firm. "Cathy, youare a mother now and the field work can be dangerous."

"But Joe, I have to carry my share of the work load."

"Radcliff, you know I'm right and you know Vincent would agree.And don't worry, there is still more than enough work for you!"

"Ok Joe, you win. But that doesn't mean I have to like it."Catherine pretended to still be miffed. "You and Vincent planned thisdidn't you?" Joe's sheepish grin told her she was right. "But I'm notgiving up my lessons with Isaac," she muttered rebelliously under herbreath.

Truthfully she admitted to herself an enormous relief. She hadfaced enough danger in the last three years to last a lifetime, nordid she want to risk Vincent in situations where he might need tocome to her rescue. She needed Vincent safe and Jake needed both ofthem safe and sound thought Catherine, and was not surprised that,tiny as he was, Jake had the power to make her accept suchrestrictions.

"Radcliff I'm glad you're back." Joe waved her out the door as hisphone rang.

A few days later Joe caught Catherine at the elevator as they wereheading down for lunch. "Radcliff. I need your advice."

"Must be a new woman," Catherine laughed. "What is it Joe?"

"Yes, there is someone and I want to ask her to marry me," hereplied. "What do I do? What should I say?'

"This is serious then?" asked Catherine. Joe nodded. "Joe,whatever you say or do, if she loves you it will be right."

Joe looked relieved. "I knew I could count on you Radcliff! I'mgoing to ask her right now." He was gone before Catherine couldreply.

"Good luck." she called after him.

Catherine's days were busy ones. When she wasn't at work she andVincent spent hours with Jake. They would often sit in their favoritespot under the band shell and let the concert music wash over thethree of them. On some weekends Catherine took Jake to her apartmentand for long walks in the park. She and Vincent wanted him to becomfortable in her world right from the beginning. Sometimes Jennywas with her and sometimes Joe too. They both fussed over Jake as dideveryone below. He was a truly well loved baby! And maybe a bitspoiled too!

"Cath, Joe and I have something to ask you," said Jenny oneevening while the three of them were having dinner in Catherine'sapartment, Jake sleeping soundly in his crib.

"You sound serious. What is it?" Catherine asked slightlyalarmed.

"I've asked Jenny to marry me," said Joe.

"Would you be my maid of honor?" asked Jenny.

"I'd be delighted." replied Catherine as she jumped up to throwher arms around them in delight. Suddenly she remembered Joe'squestion about proposing. "So, whatever you said was right?" sheasked him.

"Radcliff you are wise and wonderful." Joe replied. "We do haveanother request. Do you think we could have a second wedding partywith you and Vincent and everyone Below. Would you ask?"

"Of course you can. I don't have to ask. Just tell me when andwhat you want." The two women began planning, forgetting about Joe."Wait a minute." said Catherine. "Let's go below now and plan withVincent." Joe and Jenny agreed readily. Catherine scooped up Jake andthey were off.

Below was no different. After giving Vincent the news the twowomen were back as the planning, forgetting both men in theirexcitement. Joe looked at Vincent and asked, "Are women always likethis?"

"I suspect so." replied Vincent. "Do you play chess?"

"Yes."

"Then we might as well play. They will be planning for hours." Thetwo men went to find Father's set. Catherine and Jenny didn't evennotice them leave.

Epilogue

Vincent and Joe stood a little apart from the crowd watching theswirls of activity.

"Can you believe it?" asked Joe. "This is our tenthWinterfest!"

"Yes." Vincent turned to him. "Do you remember your first visithere?"

"Are you kidding? I couldn't believe any of it a first. Didn'twant to either."

"You hated me a little that night."

Joe had the good grace to not deny Vincent's words. "Yes, I did.You had Catherine and your incredible connection and Jake and I waspretty jealous."

"And then you found Jenny and built your own circle of love."

Joe started to respond, but they were interrupted. "Dad," criedJake as he and Mike flew up to their fathers. "Mom says we're oldenough for lessons with Isaac and we can start next week if it's okwith you. She says that's her Winterfest present to us!"

Mike was just as excited. "Is it ok Dad?" he asked Joe.

"Who's Isaac? And what kind of lessons?" asked Joe.

"Isaac taught Catherine everything she knows about self-defenseand that knowledge saved her life many times, mine too." Vincentexplained for the boys.

Sensing Vincent's trust in this man Joe answered, "Well then, ifit's ok with your Mom, its ok with me."

The boys started away and then turned back. "Don't forget Dad, youhave to take us swimming in the secret pools again this week,"reminded Jake.

"And you promised to take us to a basketball game." Mike wasn'tabout to let his father forget either. "Be sure to have some of thecake Mom helped us make he told both men. "We have to go now. Wepromised Father a game of chess."

"He's our teacher, but we almost always win," boasted Jake and offthey went.

"Boy, they don't forget a thing!" said Joe.

"No, but they seem to think we forget everything." laughedVincent. "Remember them as babies? It was a lot simpler then. Allthey did was cry!" Then he turned to Joe and added, "I knew themoment when you had finally accepted me without reservation."

"When?" asked Joe, not fully conscious of it himself.

"At the naming ceremony, when you named your son Michael VincentMaxwell. I felt that was the true beginning of our friendship."

Joe thought about that for a moment and then turned to watch theboys. "They are the luckiest of children, aren't they?" hestated.

"How so?" asked Vincent. He knew the answer but he needed to hearJoe say it.

"They have the very best of both worlds." Joe looked at Vincent."I do too." Vincent nodded and the two men embraced, best of friends.

They turned to see Catherine and Jenny approaching. "And we arethe luckiest of men," said Vincent, his eyes glued to Catherine. Asif, after ten years he still can't believe his good luck, thoughtJoe.

"What are you two, looking so smug about?" asked Jenny.

"Our secret. Man stuff" and Joe swept her to the dance floorbefore she could protest.

Vincent turned to Catherine, "May I have this dance, my lady?" heasked inclining his head to her slightly. Catherine curtsied andgave him her hand. Vincent raised her hand to kiss it, bowedgallantly and led her into the dance. Her heart swelled as Vincentswept her into the dance and the music soared around and abovethem.

Like a fairy tale, she thought. We will all live happily everafter!