

One More Day

By Lauren Michaels

Smashwords Edition

Copyright 2015, Lauren Michaels

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Chapter 1

Katherine sits at a small table near the back of the bar, her pad and pen on the table in front of her. Though she really is not a bar person, this is a good place to come and unwind after work, gather her thoughts and make her lists for the next day before she begins her drive home. It's not a long drive, really just a short distance from here, but at this time of night the traffic is heavy so she decides to wait until it thins out a little. Katherine is known for making lists or leaving sticky notes everywhere. Most of her friend's refrigerators are covered with kid's pictures, magnets, pictures, maybe a small note or two, and a grocery list. Katherine's is covered with sticky notes ranging from things she needs to accomplish and small reminders of her hopes and dreams. Some people would call her meticulous, maybe even anal, but it is Katherine's way of making sure nothing gets forgotten or left undone. This trait is what has gotten her so far in her career, one that she loves but is often dissatisfied with. Many firms have tried to woo her away from her current employers, but they have been very good to her over the years, being there for her in good times and bad and she wouldn't dream of leaving them. Loyal to a fault some people would say. Except she thinks to herself, if she found the right person, "for the right person I would go anywhere, do anything."

As she sits there watching the people come and go, she notices everyone. The old man sitting all alone at the bar nursing his beer. He has been drinking that same drink the entire time. "I can tell he doesn't want to go home," she thinks to herself. The two guys sitting at the other end of the bar where they can see the door every time it opens. "Yes, they want to be able to see every woman that walks in," she thinks with a slight smile. And just at that moment the door opens, they turn to each other and wink, but it is only one of the waitresses coming on for her shift. Then there are the four women sitting a table in the corner. Katherine can tell by their laughter and chatter that they are planning some type of a trip, probably somewhere warm and beachy. Katherine too looks up from her notepad whenever anyone enters. It is her style. "I am a people watcher." But that is part of what makes her so good at her job. She can read people almost instantly, put herself in their shoes which helps them relax and feel at ease.

The door opens again and Katherine glances up to see who has walked in. Their eyes meet for just the briefest of moments and Katherine gives him a slight smile, as if to say hello. "I don't think I have seen him here before," she thinks as she looks back down at the notepad and begins to write again. He takes a seat at another small table across the room and Katherine assumes he is waiting for someone, perhaps a wife or girlfriend. Occasionally Katherine glances up and looks in his direction. During one of those glances she catches him staring at her and again their eyes meet. Katherine finds herself looking into the deepest brown eyes she has ever seen. Their eyes lock for just a moment and feeling self-conscious, Katherine quickly lowers hers, but not before she notices the strong chiseled lines of his jaw and how his hair slants just across his brow. He is wearing a suit and tie, "another professional," she whispers under her breath. Then she notices the IPad on the table in front of him. With a slight chuckle to herself she admits that most people have grown accustomed to all the new electronic equipment, but she is more comfortable with the old pad and pen. There is something about seeing it written down somewhere where it won't be deleted or lost if the power goes out.

Katherine can tell by the rise in the volume in the bar that the evening crowd is now coming in and that she should probably start her drive home. "Traffic has probably died down enough to make the drive bearable and besides Bart is probably ready to go out for his nightly walk." she thinks. She rises and begins to gather her things and as she does so she realizes that the gentleman is walking toward her table.

"Hi." He says. "I have been trying to get up the courage to come over all evening and introduce myself."

"Really, I didn't realize I was so intimidating." She says with a slight giggle.

"I couldn't help but notice that you were writing something and I didn't want to disturb you. Are you a journalist, maybe writing your next big story?"

"No, this is just how I keep my thoughts together." Katherine replies.

"I see, well I see you are getting ready to leave, I won't keep you," and he turns to walk away. Suddenly he turns back again "By the way, my name is Paul, Paul Reynolds."

"Hi, Paul, very nice to meet you, I am Katherine." She replies.

"Have a good evening Katherine, maybe we will see each other again."

"You too Paul and yes, maybe we will."

Katherine picks up her pad and purse and heads for the door, with one last glance towards his table and a brief nod goodbye she opens the door and steps outside. "Oh my, it has gotten cooler," she thinks as she wraps her jacket tighter and heads for her car across the street. Paul is a very nice looking man she thinks. I wonder what he does for a living, having never seen him here before. But there are always new people in town, especially with all the new businesses that have popped up over the last few years. The recession didn't really hit Katherine's little world, not like some places in the US.

On the drive home Katherine's mind keeps drifting back to that brief meeting with Paul Reynolds. He's probably married she says almost out loud, shaking her head and trying to get back to reality, she realizes that she didn't glance at his left hand at all. Of course, it was just the briefest of meetings. The drive wasn't too bad, traffic had thinned out quite a bit. Before she knows it she is pulling into her drive and as she turns off the engine she can hear Bart barking, letting her know he knows she is home and is ready to go for his walk. As Katherine opens the door, Bart is there, acting like he hasn't been outside in ages, bounding around like some young pup, though is more than 8 years old. Katherine grabs his leash and they head back out the door. Her mind is lost in thought as they walk the same path they take every morning and night, though this time it is more like Bart is walking her, as she is lost in thought with all that she needs to accomplish tomorrow and her mind keeps drifting to thoughts of Paul. "How silly am I?" she says and doesn't even realize that she said it out loud until Bart stops and looks at her. "I have got to stop this, it was just a brief meeting." She thinks. Deep down though she has that feeling that it was more. It was a feeling of connecting with another old soul. That feeling you get when you just met someone who you can be yourself around totally and they would understand exactly what you were thinking and feeling without a lot of words. Again this is her ability to be able to see past what other people see.

Having completed all her nightly tasks Katherine heads for bed and in the back of her mind she keeps thinking how nice it would be to find that person you connect with. "I miss that." She says out loud. With no one to hear her except Bart, he just looks at her and tilts his head, like he is saying I don't understand. "Oh well," she sighs "maybe someday," as she turns off the light.

Katherine decides to forego going to the bar tonight as she can tell that it is crowded and already getting rowdy by the time she gets off from work, so she just heads straight home. "I wonder if Paul is there." She thinks. What she doesn't realize that across the street in the bar, he is sitting at the small table where she usually sits, waiting, hoping she will come in. Thoughts of her long, dark hair and green eyes have haunted him every waking moment and though he hates to admit it, in his dreams also. He can't seem to shake the feeling that he has met her somewhere before. He wonders how old she is, as she doesn't look a day over 35, but her eyes reveal more wisdom and understanding than a younger woman could possibly have and Paul should know as he has dated women of all ages from 25 to much older than himself. And while he is only 40, his life has taken many twists and turns, most of which were as unexpected as the day he first saw Katherine.

Chapter 2

A couple of days have passed since Katherine met Paul and while occasional thoughts of him and his brown eyes did pop into her head, mostly she just kept busy with work and her friends online. Tonight is Thursday and not too busy at the bar, so Katherine decides to go in and sit for a while. In the back of her mind, she is silently hoping that he will be there. Taking a seat at her usual table, "I will just have a beer and glass of water." she tells Shelly, her waitress. They have become friends since Katherine is now considered a regular, coming in one or twice a week, although usually she only has one drink and a glass of water.

"How was your day?" Shelly asks.

"Good, busy, crazy. And yours Shelly? It doesn't look to busy tonight?"

"It is off to a slow start tonight, but it should pick up a little later. I will be right back with your drink." Shelly replies.

The door opens and as Katherine glances up, she realizes it is Paul and he is headed straight for her table. "Hi," he says, "I was hoping you might be here tonight."

"Really, well you have found me." She replies with a slight nervous giggle. Feeling like a school girl for a moment, she forgets her manners to offer him a seat.

"Mind if I sit with you for a bit?" He asks.

"Please do." she replies as she tries her best to regain her composure and manners.

Shelly returns with Katherine's beer only to find that she is not alone. "What can I get you?" She asks Paul.

"I will have whatever Katherine is drinking." He replies. Stunned that he remembered her name, Katherine shyly looks down at the pad and pen in front of her. As he takes the seat across from her he says, "Tell me about yourself Katherine."

"Oh, there really isn't much to tell."

"I don't believe that for a moment. I could tell the first time I met you, there is a lot going on in that pretty head of yours." Paul replies with a sly grin. At that moment Shelly returns with his beer, places it on the table in front of him and says "Can I get you two anything else?"

"Not at the moment." They both reply in unison, which makes the three of them burst out in laughter. "Ok then, just wave if you decide to order something." Shelly says and as she turns to leave she gives Katherine a wink, showing her approval in Katherine allowing someone to sit with her.

"She is gone now," she hears Paul saying, "and I want to learn more about you."

Katherine is not used to talking about herself and is at a loss for where to begin so she turns the tables on him and says "You first. What brings you to our small neck of the woods? Don't get me wrong I love it here, but it's not like Chicago, New York or LA and it seems to me you are more suited to those kinds of places with all the plays, museums, art galleries and such."

"Now, how would she know that?" He wonders to himself. "Actually you are right. I currently live in San Francisco and I am here on business."

"Hmmm, I knew it." She thinks.

"The company I work for is opening an office here. We do a lot of business with some of the companies that have opened offices here recently." He continues.

"And that is?" She prods him.

"I work in IT, you know Information Technology. We come in and get all their computers and programs set up so that they can connect directly with the home office in every way, wherever it is located. We have set up companies from Japan and China to ones here in the US."

Although she is listening to every word, Katherine is also thinking "San Francisco, one of the places on my list to visit, but that means he travels a lot and is probably just here for another day or two."

As he lifts his mug for a sip of beer, she notices that he is not wearing a wedding ring, but that doesn't necessarily mean that he is not married, so she asks "Does your wife travel with you very often?"

With a slight chuckle, he replies "Why do you think I am married?" Without giving her a chance to reply he says "I'm not married. Are you Katherine, or maybe a guy waiting for you at home?"

"Well, I have to be honest." She replies.

"Yes, please do." Paul says as he begins feeling a lump rise in his throat. "I never considered that she was taken." He thinks to himself.

"His name is Bart." Katherine tells him.

"Oh, I see, Bart." Paul says.

Katherine continues, "We have been together for about 8 years now and he is at home waiting for me, I am sure he is ready to go out walking."

Thinking he has misunderstood, Paul says "For a walk? I am afraid I didn't hear you right?"

"No, that's what I said." Katherine replies. Now thoroughly confused Paul just looks at her, waiting for her to explain. Having realized she might have taken her little joke too far, she looks into his eyes and says "Bart is my dog. He is a mixed breed, part German shepherd, part golden retriever. We just sort of fell in love that day at the shelter. He was so small, the runt of the litter, and when he looked at me with those big eyes, I just couldn't resist. And we have been together ever since."

Feeling a wake of relief wash over him, "I understand completely. I love animals, but with the amount of time I am away from home, I haven't had a real pet in years." he confesses. "But you really had me going there for a second Katherine, I was about to say goodnight and leave."

Knowing that she didn't want that, all she could say was "I am sorry. I was just trying to be humorous. Lighten the mood a little after my faux pau for thinking you were married."

Realizing that this is a woman that would probably keep him on his toes, Paul just says "Ok, your turn Katherine. Tell me about yourself."

Knowing she is now going to have to tell him something about herself, she begins "I am a paralegal. I work for a small law firm located nearby. Just three attorneys, but they keep the office hopping. I work mostly for one attorney, but supervise the other two girls who work for the other attorneys. I love my work, but sometimes it can be a little overwhelming, making sure that nothing gets lost or forgotten, that no deadlines are missed, and that the other girls are keeping busy and taking care of business. Sometimes it feels like the firm's success or failure rests on my shoulders."

"So that is the reason for your lists, so that you make sure you have everything covered at all times?" Paul asks.

"Yes, it is." she replies.

"So what do you like to do for fun?" He asks.

As she sets her glass back down, she replies, "What's that? Honestly, I am just a home body, I love sitting on my deck in the summer, grilling out, maybe have a drink, listen to the sounds of the woods behind my house. Watching a good movie while cuddling on the sofa. Sitting by the fireplace and just having someone to talk to, share the highs and lows of the day. Going out for dinner and dancing, maybe a movie or going to the museum." Realizing she is rattling on, Katherine stops and sees that Paul is just listening and watching her. "And you Paul, what do you do for fun?"

"All of that sounds wonderful to me Katherine, but I also enjoy being outside, skiing, swimming and I like watching some sports, but I am not a fanatic about it. I would rather be playing than watching."

Katherine glances at her watch and realizes that she has been sitting here with Paul for almost two hours and she is sure Bart is coming unglued at home, wondering where she is and when he will get to go out. "I'm sorry Paul, but I really must go home, Bart is waiting."

"I understand completely Katherine, you can't make him wait forever. But I really would like to see you again, maybe do something fun and exciting." Paul replies.

"Oh, and did you have anything in particular in mind?"

"Well, I was thinking and I am sure you know since you live here, that they have opened the ice skating rink for the winter."

"Yes, I know."

"How about Saturday? I can meet you there and we can spend the afternoon ice skating?"

"I am afraid that I will spend more time on the ice, than on my skates, if you get my drift Paul, because I have never ice skated. Roller skated, yes, but never on ice. They couldn't keep the ice from melting last year, so I never got to try it." Katherine confessed to him.

"That's okay Katherine, I will be there to keep you from falling, or at least help you up, if you do."

"That's very sweet of you, a gentleman." She jokes with him. She can see the little glint in his eyes and has to admit to herself that it does sound like fun. "Ok. What time shall I meet you?"

"How about 2 pm? We can skate for a while, then we can grab a cup of hot chocolate and maybe dinner, if you feel like it, that is."

"It's a date, Paul." She rises to gather up her things and put on her coat.

"May I walk you to your car? Its dark out and I don't want anything to happen to you."

"I am just across the street, but that would be nice, thank you."

They step outside and the wind has picked up and gotten much cooler, as Katherine pulls her coat tighter, Paul puts his arm around her and pulls her closer. They cross the street and as they stand next to her car, hesitating, neither really wanting to say good night, he bends and gives her a slight kiss on the cheek. "Until Saturday Katherine, see you then," and he turns and heads back the way they came. Katherine opens the door and gets in, starts her car and just sits there for a moment allowing her car to warm up just a little. "Saturday, just one day away," She says under her breath.

Chapter 3

Saturday morning comes and it finds Katherine rummaging through her closet, throwing things out like it is on fire. She is searching for the perfect outfit, not too revealing, but not so bulky that he won't be able to tell that she has a few curves. Of course, she realizes as she looks at herself in the mirror, "I no longer have the body of a 20 year old, but it's not too bad, the yoga has helped. But I don't want to get cold or not have a little padding for when I fall." she thinks. "Actually, I think I will be spending a lot of time on the ice," she says to Bart who is watching her from his bed at the foot of hers. "And I am not talking about on the skates, I am really nervous about this. I can just see myself falling over and over."

The morning passes quickly and before she knows it is almost noon. She decides to take a long bath, just to help her relax before getting dressed. She has her clothes all laid out on the bed, skinny jeans, the nice sweater she wore when she went to Utah last winter, her riding boots and of course a puffer jacket to keep her warm. She also decides to wear her hair down today, after all she may have to wear something to keep her ears warm and the ponytail she usually wears would make that difficult.

Katherine pulls up promptly at 2, parks and after getting out of her car, reaches into the back seat for her jacket. Pulling on her jacket, she looks around the rink and sees Paul standing by the booth where they will get their skates. He spots her immediately and waves to her. Walking toward the booth, she wonders how long he has been there, but she is relieved that he is not one of those people that keep you waiting. Katherine is always on time, not like her sister who is late for everything.

Coming toward him, Paul is thinking "She really is a knockout, she looks so good in those tight jeans and boots." As she gets to where he is standing, Paul reaches for her hand and says "Ready? Let's get our skates and hit the ice."

"Oh, that's what I am afraid of." she laughingly replies.

After getting their skates, they sit on the bench just inside the rink and put them on. When Katherine has hers all laced up, she looks up and Paul is standing there, hand outstretched, "Ready?"

"Let's do this." Katherine says as she takes his hand.

He helps her to her feet, feeling a little wobbly, she tries hard to steady herself. "Oh, I don't know if I can do this," she thinks to herself, but suddenly she realizes that Paul is holding her left hand and his right arm is around her back and his hand is gently resting on her waist. She feels steadier already.

"Right foot first, just gently glide it forward, then your left foot, same thing." He is telling her. She does as he has instructed and together they slide forward a foot or so. He is right by her side, holding her tight, keeping her steady. After a few more glides, they seem to be moving in unison.

Watching out for all the children, Paul keeps them closer to the railing, but he never lets go of her hand or waist and just glides them around the rink, giving her encouragement the whole time. "You are doing great." He tells her over and over.

Feeling like she has the hang of it Katherine says "Let me see if I can do this without any help, ok?"

"Of course," he says and he drops his hand from her waist first, then gently releases her hand. With a smile on her face, Katherine moves forward a few steps, then suddenly her feet begin to go out from under her and she can feel herself falling backward. She lands hard on the ice, but Paul is there in just an instant, hand outreached, ready to help her to her feet.

"That part wasn't any fun." She giggles.

"It does take a while to get the hang of it, but you were doing great there for a second." He replies trying to contain his laughter.

As he bends over to help her to her feet, a little boy comes whizzing by, just barely missing them, but close enough to Paul to cause him to lose his footing and the next thing Katherine knows is he is sitting on the ice next to her.

"Nice of you to join me down here, but you really didn't have to."

"Well, I didn't want you to feel foolish sitting on the ice alone." He tells her. They both start to laugh. As he helps her to her feet, "I won't let go of you again, not even if you beg."

"Thanks, I would appreciate that and I don't think I will ask again, at least not until I am sure I have the hang of it."

Paul was true to his word, he never let go of her and they spend the next couple of hours gliding around the rink, dodging the other skaters, laughing like kids, taking an occasional break to rest and watch all the people. Several times, he would change positions and come around behind her, his hands on each side of her waist, letting her take the lead. Though she was feeling more confident, she was still worried about causing both of them to hit the ice again and sometimes it showed on her face, but then Paul would whisper in her ear, "It's okay Katherine, I am right here, if we fall you will land on me and not the ice."

Suddenly, he slid them to a stop, "Ready for that hot chocolate?"

"That would be wonderful, I am getting a little chilly." She replied.

"I thought so, you should have said something sooner, Katherine."

"I was having too much fun to realize that is was getting colder."

"Let's get that hot chocolate and get you warmed up," he said as he is gliding them toward the bench. After he has her all seated, he says, "I will be right back."

While waiting Katherine starts to remove her skates and put her boots back on. Paul returns with the hot chocolate and hands her a cup. "Here, let me hold yours while you get out of those skates."

"Okay, but don't drink it," he chuckles, "I have worked up a thirst."

Katherine just sits there quietly while he removes his skates and puts his shoes back on, then hands him the hot chocolate. "Penny for your thoughts." He said suddenly.

"I was just thinking how much I enjoyed today," Katherine replied, "I felt so safe and secure with you, because you were by my side the whole time and when I did fall, you were right there to help me up."

"Isn't that the way things should be Katherine, someone by your side, helping you up if you fall, giving you all the things you dream of?" When she didn't reply right away and seeing she was deep in thought, Paul wondered if maybe he had said something to upset her or was moving too fast, but he knew he was beginning to feel something for her and unknown to Paul, Katherine was thinking that she too was feeling something for Paul, but was concerned by the fact that he didn't live close by and would be returning home soon.

Deep in thought, they both realized at the same time that snow flurries had begun to fall. Nothing heavy, just a little snow swirling in the wind. "I think it is time to find someplace warm. Would you like to get a bite to eat Katherine?"

"Yes, I seemed to have worked up quite an appetite this afternoon. There are several good places close by. What kind of food do you like Paul?"

"I will eat just about anything you put in front of me, I'm am not a picky eater." He takes her hand and helps her to her feet. "Why don't we just walk for a bit, and we will stop at whatever place looks the most interesting?" he says.

"Good idea." They start down the street, Paul takes her hand and kisses it.

"What was that for?" Katherine asks.

"I have enjoyed today more than anything I have enjoyed in a long time." he replies.

"Me, too. It has been awhile since I acted like a little kid and just let loose."

"I guess we will just have to plan more days like this then, won't we?"

"I would love that, but I am sure you have to return to San Francisco shortly." Finally she said what she was thinking out loud.

Paul stops walking and just stands there. "Is that what is bothering you Katherine?"

"Truthfully, yes. I just don't want to get too attached and then you will have to return home."

"I know, I have been thinking the same thing the last couple of days, but let's worry about that when the time comes, if it comes." Paul replies. As they start walking again they realize they are passing the Mexican restaurant. The Italian place is just ahead.

"Mexican or Italian?" He asks.

"I have not been to the Italian one yet." Katherine replies.

"Italian it is then."

As they enter the restaurant, they realize it isn't too busy, probably because people are worried about whether it will start to snow or not and they don't want to be caught out in it. Paul asks the waitress for a small table in the back. He figures that way they can talk and get to know each other better. There is so much he wants to learn about Katherine and after spending the day with her, he really doesn't understand why she is still single, though deep down he is glad she is. As he helps her with her chair, she thinks "Such a gentleman, so many men do not wait for a woman to be seated or help with her chair anymore." Paul takes his seat just as the waitress comes up and asks for their drink order. Knowing she has to drive home and the road are wet, Katherine orders a hot tea, rather than an alcoholic drink. Paul takes her lead and orders the same.

While they are waiting for their drinks, Katherine asks "Where are you staying while in town? I hope it's not far away, especially with the weather."

"My company rents one of those monthly corporate suites just a few miles away, so no worries." He tells her.

"I have heard those are very nice."

"Oh, they are, all the comforts of home, or that's what the ad says. But they are really very luxurious and usually when we are setting up an office we are here for several weeks, so it makes a lot of sense to rent by the month, at least until we have the office established and the right people in place." "So did you grow up here, Katherine, or are you a transplant like so many people here?" He continues.

"Actually, I grew up near here, left for many years and then returned. So I guess the people that have always lived here would call me a transplant." She explains.

The waitress returns with their drinks and takes their dinner order, when she leaves Michael asks, "So what brought you back?"

Sensing that Paul was really interested in finding out more about her, she said. "If I start to get carried away, just stop me, ok?"

"Okay, but I don't think you will have to worry about that, I want to know everything."

"Alright, Paul, here goes. I left after high school. I moved around for a while, I just wasn't really sure what I wanted to do with my life. I had so many aspirations but couldn't settle on any one thing I really wanted to do for the rest of my life. You know, young and stupid. Then I had a friend that went through a really bad divorce and had to fight for custody of her children, and I was there by her side the whole time, giving encouragement, learning all I could so that I could help her understand and make good decisions. Everyone that I came in contact with said I should go into law, but I wasn't sure I wanted to be a lawyer because I really dislike being the center of attention and couldn't see myself standing in front of a judge pleading my case. That's when I learned that I could go to school and become a paralegal. I took a couple of classes just to be sure that's what I wanted to do and fell in love with the profession. So while working a full-time job to pay for college, I went to school at night. It took me several years to get my degree, but I finally managed it. Then my mother got sick and I had to return here to take care of her, but we needed the income so I got a job with the firm I am with and have been there ever since. I have to admit I love it here in Huntsville. It has that small town charm and yet we have so many exciting things to do and see just like some of the bigger cities, but it is the people that I love so much. People here are so friendly and neighborly, not like some of the larger cities I lived in." Feeling like she is rambling on and on, Katherine stops and looks at Paul. He is just watching her with such loving eyes that it almost brings tears to hers.

"And you never married?" There he finally asked the one question that he was dying to ask.

"No, I came close a few times, but it just never felt truly right."

He notices that she is absently toying with her hair, twirling it around her finger, "Must be a nervous habit, but God would I love to run my fingers through her hair." He thinks.

"Ok, your turn." She says. "Where did you grow up?"

Just then the waitress returns with their dinner order and after she leaves, Paul says, "I grew up in a small town in Nebraska. As a matter of fact, my parents still live in the same house I grew up in and my brother, Matt and his family live very close to them."

"I see, so that is how you know how to ice skate?"

"Yes, there wasn't a lot to do in town, so that is one of the things we did every winter, and I am sure you know all about Nebraska winters. Snow, snow and more snow. I also learned how to cross country ski." In between bites, Paul explains that he although his father wanted him to stay and help out around the farm after he graduated from high school. Unlike his brother, Matt, he really wanted to get out and see more of the world, so shortly after graduation from high school he left home and bounced around a lot, doing odd jobs earning just enough money to get to the next place. He did a short stint in the Navy, and though he enjoyed being at sea and loved all the ports they visited, being confined to the boat for such long periods of time were really hard and he decided not to reenlist. He was in San Francisco area when the computer and internet thing hit and thought that maybe that was for him, so he went to school and learned all he could about computers and computer programs.

"And marriage?" Katherine asks.

"Well, when I was younger, I really didn't think marriage was for me. I wanted to play the field, not be tied down to any one person, but as I have gotten older, it has been more difficult to find that one person that you really connect with. Someone you can share anything and everything with, someone that will accept you just the way you are and not try to change you. I also travel a lot for work, which makes it hard to meet someone or stay connected if you do." The waitress appears with the check and asks if they want any dessert or anything else. "Sounds to me like she is trying to get us to leave." Paul says with a chuckle.

"I should probably head home to Bart."

"Let's head back to our cars then," Paul says as he rises and gets out his wallet. After paying the bill, they step back outside, Paul puts his arm around Katherine and they head back toward the ice rink.

They walk in silence for a bit, just enjoying being with each other. Every once in a while one or the other will comment on the Christmas lights as they pass them. How everything is so lit up and beautiful. The walk seemed shorter coming back and before they know it they are standing next to Katherine's car. Paul takes her car keys, opens the door, puts the key in the ignition and starts the car. As he closes the door, he says "We will let it warm up just a bit before you get in. Can I have you number Katherine?"

"Only if I can have yours too." She giggles.

"I thought you would never ask. I want you to know that I wanted to ask for yours the first night I met you, but I didn't want to rush you." He continues. He hands Katherine one of his business cards, "that's my cell number." He hands her another card so she can write hers down for him.

After exchanging cards, he takes her into his arms and kisses her first on the forehead, then the tip of her nose. Holding her tight, he looks deep into her eyes and unable to contain himself any longer, he leans in and gently kisses her. He tilts his head back and looks deeply into her eyes once again and as she places her arms around his neck, he leans in again and kisses her once more, this time deeply and passionately. Katherine just melts in his arms, letting go of any fears she may have and returns his kiss with all the passion welling up inside her. As they pull away from each other, Katherine can feel her heart beating wilding.

"You better get inside," he says "or I will not be able to pull away from you again."

"I feel the same way." She replies breathlessly.

With one last brief kiss, Paul opens the door and helps her inside. "Good night Katherine, thank you for today."

"Good night Paul, thank you. I enjoyed today so much." With that he closes the door and heads toward his car.

Katherine pulls out into traffic and heads home, remembering the day. She was almost home when her phone rang. If she hadn't had Bluetooth, she wouldn't have answered, but since the phone was in the cradle, she hit the button "Hello."

"Are you home yet?" It was Paul.

"Almost."

"I couldn't wait any longer to call you, I hope you don't mind."

"No, I am glad you called, I was thinking of you."

"Me too, you have been on my mind since I walked away from your car."

"I have an idea." Katherine says.

"What's that honey?"

"What if I cooked dinner for you tomorrow night, you can come to my house, meet Bart."

"I would love to. Are you sure?"

"More than sure, call me tomorrow and we will get everything planned, ok?"

"First thing in the morning honey, I promise. Good night Katherine, until tomorrow."

"Sleep well Paul, tomorrow it is."

As Katherine pulls into her drive and turns off the engine, she can hear Bart barking. After taking him out for his nightly walk she gets ready for bed. Thoughts of the day and Paul's deep brown eyes, the way he kissed her so gently and passionately at the same time, overwhelming her as she drifts into a deep slumber.

Chapter 4

True to his word, her phone starts ringing about 8:30. "Hello." She says.

"Good morning Honey. I hope you slept well."

"Yes, sweetie, I did, and you?"

"I tossed and turned all night, honey, wishing you were here with me." Quiet on her end, Paul says, "Katherine, everything ok?"

"Yes, sweetie, I am fine, just thinking." Afraid to admit that she feels like she could fall hard for this man and worried about the timing of everything, Katherine doesn't know what to say. "Still want to come to dinner sweetie?" She asks.

"Of course, I do."

"Good, I have some errands to run this morning, so how about 6ish? You can call me before you head this way and I will give you the address and directions if you need them. Anything special you would like?"

"I am sure I will enjoy whatever you decide to cook."

"I would love to throw something on the grill, but it is really too chilly for that right now, but I will fix you something wonderful."

"Okay, honey, I will call you when I am heading your way. Have a good day Katherine and I can't wait until tonight."

"Me either, Paul, see you soon."

Katherine decides to get out and run her errands and go by the grocery store and pick up what she will need for dinner, then later she can straighten up her house and get ready as she begins fixing dinner. She opens her frig and standing in front of it says "looks like I need to pick up quite a bit." All that she has is a carton of milk and a few eggs. Most nights she just stops and picks up whatever she decides to fix. She finds that is easier than buying a lot of food and ending up throwing most of it out because it has gone bad.

Walking the aisles of the store, she is still at a loss for dinner, "I was really hoping that something would come to mind as I walked." She thinks. "Something not to heavy or too light." Lost in thought she wanders over to the meat aisle and sees the fresh shrimp sitting in the case. After asking the butcher several questions about how fresh it was, where it came from, she tells him to give her two pounds. "Oh, I hope he likes shrimp. I will make my gumbo as a starter, then sauté the shrimp in a creamy butter sauce and serve over some rice. Yes, that will work and maybe a light Caesar salad on the side." It feels like her mind is running a mile a minute and she is lost without a list, but she really wasn't sure what she wanted to cook until this very moment. As she is walking toward the checkout aisle, she stops and picks out a lovely bouquet of flowers for the table and a couple of bottles of very nice white wine. "Perfect. I already have some candles." She remembers. Suddenly she hears the text message ring tone of her phone, "message received." She figures it is her sister who usually checks in with her on Sundays. Katherine opens her purse and fumbles for her cell phone. When she finds it she hits on messages and sees that it isn't from her sister at all. It's from Paul and all he says is "Thinking of you and can't wait for tonight," and one of those cute little smiley faces.

After returning home from her shopping trip, she takes Bart out for a walk, straightens up her house, which really didn't take her long, but the afternoon seems to be flying past her. Before she knows it is about 4:30 and she needs to start getting ready. She has the table all set with the candles and flowers, the gumbo cooking in the crock pot, and the wine chilling in the frig.

Just then her phone rings and it is Paul. "I couldn't wait any longer," he says even before she has a chance to say hello.

"I was just thinking the same thing," was all she could reply. "Why don't you come now? That way we will have more time to spend together."

"Are you sure Katherine? I wouldn't want to rush you if you aren't ready."

"Its fine sweetie, I will pop in the shower and be all ready by the time you get here." After giving him her address she asks if he thinks he will need directions, but he assures her that his rental car has GPS and he will just put in her address and be there before she knows it. They say their goodbyes and Katherine decides she better hurry and get her shower taken.

Just as she is getting out of the shower, she hears the doorbell ring. "Surely I wasn't in there that long." Hearing the bell ring for a second time, she calls "Just a minute."

Grabbing her robe from its hook on the bathroom door, she hurries to the front door. Bart is standing by the door, barking and leaping around like he thinks he is going to get to go outside. While standing just behind the door, Katherine opens the door just a crack and sure enough it is Paul. "I am so sorry, I guess I was in the shower longer than I thought."

"No, it's probably my fault," He chuckles. "I drove here as fast as I could, without getting a ticket that is. Are you going to ask me in or make me stand out here in the cold?"

"Sorry, I forgot my manners," she replies, "Come in, come in. Make yourself at home."

As Paul slips in the door, he realizes that she is only wearing her robe, which has slipped off her shoulder and he can see her lightly tanned skin. Her hair is still damp from her shower and falling in long ringlets around her face. Oh, how he wants to take her in his arms and hold her close, feeling her body tight against his. Using all the restraint he can muster, he turns away from the door and leans down to pet Bart on the head. "You must be Bart."

As she closes the door, she says, "Let me get dressed. I will be right back." As she walks past the CD player she hits play and soft music fills the room. Katherine returns in just a few minutes having quickly thrown on her jeans, a tee shirt and sweater. Her hair is still a little damp, as she didn't take the time to dry it and she is barefoot.

"She looks more gorgeous each time I see her." He rises from his chair as she enters and quickly comes and lightly kisses her.

"I see you and Bart have become friends."

"Why, yes, I told you I love animals and he is very friendly."

"I still need to take him out for a walk. I had hoped that I would have had my shower finished and Bart walked before you got here, but I guess my timing was off." She giggles.

"I will go with you and Bart."

"Are you sure, you really don't have to?" We won't be gone long."

"I am sure Katherine. I want to spend every minute I can with you. And if that means walking Bart, then so be it." They grab Bart's leash and head out the door.

They walk slowly, allowing Bart the opportunity to stop and smell what seems like every blade of grass or leaf. Paul reaches over and takes Katherine's other hand. As they are walking he notices that she lives in a quaint little neighborhood, older homes, but very well taken care of and quiet. "Have you lived here long?" Paul asks.

"Yes, for many years, this was my mother's home and I inherited it when she passed away." Katherine explains. "My mother thought I deserved it for taking care of her for all those years, and that it would be easier for me to not have a house payment to make each month."

"That was very thoughtful of her."

"Yes, she wanted to make sure that everything was taken care of before she passed and that if I decided to stay here, I would have a home that held special meaning for me."

Paul suddenly realized that Katherine had probably had a life full of taking care of other people and that explained the wisdom and understanding you could see in her eyes and feel in her presence. She had that knack for putting you at ease and making you feel important at the same time.

As they returned from the walk, Katherine heads straight for her little kitchen and Paul follows. "Would you like a glass of wine?"

"Yes, that would be nice. Anything I can do to help?" He replies.

"Why don't you open the wine while I finish getting everything ready? I hope you like shrimp."

"I love shrimp," he replies, "every way, fried, boiled, grilled, sautéed."

"Good, I thought we would start off with gumbo, then shrimp and rice and a salad."

"Sounds delicious, Katherine. I haven't had a home cooked meal in ages." He opens the wine, hands her a glass and takes a seat at her counter so that they can chat as she putters around the kitchen, checking on the gumbo, putting a pan of water on the stove for the rice and getting the shrimp ready to cook. Paul just watches her move around the kitchen, noticing that she is so organized and knows exactly where everything is that she needs.

They talk about light things as she is getting everything ready, how each of them spent the day. Paul explained that he was getting all his orders ready for an office they were scheduled to set up tomorrow, making sure that they had everything they needed so that they could get all the equipment set up in one or two days and then all they would have to do is actually set up all the programs on the computers. This was a small job, only a couple of computers for now. Before he knows it she has dinner ready and everything on the table for them. He even noticed that she had made some little cheesy biscuits. "Now when did she do that?" he wondered, "I didn't see her making those."

"That was delicious. Thank you so much Katherine."

"You are very welcome, sweetie, I love to cook," she replies, "Why don't we take our wine and sit in front of the fireplace?"

"That's a great idea, shall I start a fire for us, honey?" Paul inquires.

"Good idea, why don't you do that while I tidy up?"

Paul heads for the living room and finds Bart laying on the floor in front of the fireplace. He really hates to wake Bart or make him move, but he wants to get the fire going. He places a several logs of wood in the fireplace, turns on the gas starter and lights it. Katherine walks in just as the fire is starting to blaze and the room is warming up nicely. Paul was squatting in front of the fireplace and she notices how his jeans stretched tight around his thighs and butt.

As she walked past the sofa, she grabbed a blanket and said "Why don't we just sit on the floor in front of the fire?"

He notices she has the bottle of wine and her glass in her other hand. "Like a picnic, but what about Bart, I made him move to start the fire?"

By this time Bart is now in his bed by the sofa. "He will be fine where he is honey, no worries." She spreads out the blanket and grabs a couple of throw pillows to make them more comfortable, and refills their wine glasses. They just sit there quietly, sipping their wine and staring into the fire, sparks flying up and around, then out the chimney.

Paul reaches over and puts his hand on hers and says, "There is something I would like to talk to you about Katherine."

As her heart leaps in her throat and afraid that he is going to tell her he will be heading back to San Francisco as soon as this job is done, she says, "Sure honey, you can talk to me about anything."

Turning to face her, just inches from her and with a deep breathe, he says, "The firm has asked me if I would consider relocating and run the office here. They are expecting business to really take off once word is out that we have a local office. It would mean a lot less travel for me, but they know that I have lived in San Francisco for a long time and relocating might be difficult."

"And your answer was?" Katherine doesn't realize that she is holding her breathe waiting for his reply.

"I told them I needed a few days to think it over."

"I see," was all she could say.

"All this happened before I met you, and at the time I was pretty sure my answer was going to be no, but then I met you and now I just don't know what to do."

Knowing in her heart that she would love to have him here and that they would be able to see where all this was heading, all she could say was, "Paul, honey, you have a lot of things to consider and I wouldn't want you to make any hasty decisions, anything you might regret in the future."

"Katherine, baby, you are right of course, but I think I have found the woman of my dreams and I can't bear the thought of losing you." With that said, he takes her into his arms and gently kisses her, he kisses her eyes and every inch of her face before returning to taste her lips again. They slowly sink to the floor, wrapped in each other's arms, kissing over and over. Then Paul notices little, gentle tears rolling down Katherine's cheeks. "Honey, what is wrong?"

"I think I am falling in love with you Paul, but I can't ask you to change your whole life for me."

"Baby, I don't have to make a decision right this minute. I just wanted you to know that the offer was out there, that I am struggling with any decision at this moment, but I know I want to spend more and more time with you. Besides, if I do decide to accept the offer, it will be a few months before I can officially make the move. There are several things I have to clear up in San Francisco."

The fire gently flickering in the background, each lost in their own thoughts, they just continue to lie there. Wrapped in his arms with her head on his chest, Katherine could hear and feel his heart beating and feeling her own heart beat as if in rhythm with his. Paul's hands softly caressing her back, thinking about what it would be like to lie like this each and every night, their love for each other growing stronger by the day. It wasn't long before they both just drifted off to sleep, wrapped in each other's arms.

Paul was the first to wake, feeling Katherine snuggled against him, her cheek resting on his shoulder, her arm draped over his chest and her leg resting gently on his. Looking at her face with her hair softly covering her cheek, her mouth open just slightly, he could feel his passion rising. Trying hard to shift position without waking her, he realized that falling asleep on the hard floor was unwise. He slowly slid sideways, trying as hard as he could to slide out from under her arm and leg without waking her, gently placed her head on one of the pillows, slowly rose and walked into the kitchen to get a drink of water and check the time. The clock on the stove showed it was 2 am.

Knowing that he couldn't leave without saying goodbye, he decided to see if he could carry her to bed without disturbing her too much. Squatting down and gently placing one arm under her head and the other under her legs, he slowly picked her up. She stirred just a little and he whispered "It's okay baby, I have you."

As he carried her down the hall to her room, nestled against his chest, breathing softly, he couldn't help but think that she looked like an angel in his arms. He gently placed her on the bed, again she stirred just a little, he kissed her lightly on the forehead, covered her with a blanket that lay at the foot of her bed and walked out of the room. He then walked back to the living room and after making sure the fire was out, took a place on the sofa, covering himself with the blanket from the floor.

This is where Katherine found him the next morning, asleep on her sofa. When she awoke in her bed, she worried that maybe he had put her to bed and left. But here he was sleeping soundly, Bart on the floor next to him. Not wanting to wake him just yet, Katherine walked into her kitchen and started the coffee pot. After getting two cups from the cabinet, she turned to see Bart staring at her. Deciding to take Bart out before waking Paul, Katherine grabbed her coat and the leash and they headed out the back door.

When they returned, he was sitting at the counter, coffee cup in hand. "Good morning honey," she said, "Sleep well on my sofa?"

"Morning baby," he replied, "I can sleep just about anywhere, except the floor. I hope you don't mind, but I helped myself to some coffee. It smelled so good when I woke up and after not finding you in your room, I assumed you had taken Bart out."

"You looked so peaceful, that I didn't have the heart to wake you," she replied, "and I was going to bring you a cup, but realized I didn't know how you liked it."

"Plain, honey, I just take it black," He replies. "I am going to finish my cup, and head back to the suite. We both need to get ready for work and I don't want to make you late."

With that he finishes his coffee, places his cup in the sink and heads for the door. Katherine follows and at the front door, with one long, sweet kiss, he says, "I will call you in a little while, ok?" Katherine watches him walk to his car, get in, back out of her drive, with one last wave goodbye, he is soon out of sight.

Chapter 5

The next week was busy for both of them. Katherine at the office and Paul setting up the computer system for the business. They did find time to text each other occasionally during the day and talk on the phone at night. Just quick little text messages just to let the other know they were thinking of and missing the other. Then on Friday, Katherine got a text message that simply said "Let's plan on doing something exciting tomorrow."

"Just tell me where and when." Was her reply.

"I will pick you up, just wear something warm." Came across her phone screen. "Sleep well, honey, see you about 8 in the morning."

Katherine was up and dressed in jeans, boots and a warm jacket. The temperature was only about 40, but it was supposed to warm up to nicely to about 65 degrees and the sun was already shining brightly. Then she heard something pull into her drive. "That's not a car." She said to Bart who was already barking and scratching at the door. As she opened the front door and peered out, she saw Paul had pulled up on a motorcycle. "Oh my, oh my," was all she could get out. As he got off the motorcycle and removed his helmet, he had the biggest grin on his face as he walked toward her. He could tell by the look on Katherine's face that she was worried, very worried.

"Morning honey," he said, "How are you today?"

"I was good until I opened my door and saw what you were riding." She replied.

"Have you ever ridden on a bike, Katherine?"

"Not in a very long time."

As he lightly kissed her hello, "I have you baby, don't worry I wouldn't let anything happen to you. I thought it would be fun to go on a ride today, see some of the countryside."

"I trust you completely, so I am all yours. Do you have any special place in mind?"

"Not really, babe, I thought we would just head out and see where we end up. Is that alright with you?"

"Of course, Paul." Katherine closed her front door and they headed toward the motorcycle. Paul came totally prepared as he had helmets for both of them. "Where did you get the bike?"

"I found out I could rent one by the day or week and today is going to be a gorgeous day so I thought we could get a ride in before the weather changes again."

"So I guess that means you know what you are doing?" She asked with a laugh.

"No, I have never ridden before."

Katherine slowly begins backing away from the bike.

"I am just kidding you Katherine. I ride often with friends back home, I just don't have a bike of my own."

He helps Katherine put on her helmet and takes her seat on the back of the bike. As she watches him put on his helmet she notices how great he looks in his jeans and leather jacket. He mounts the bike, slowly turns around in the drive and just before starting the engine, and asks if she is ready. All Katherine can do is nod. Paul starts the engine and they slowly ease out of the driveway. Katherine wraps her arms tightly around his waist, her breasts pressing up against his back, her face nuzzled against his shoulders.

As they are cruising through town, Katherine slowly begins to relax and realizes that Paul really does know how to drive a motorcycle, especially in all the traffic, so she leans backs in her seat, but keeps her hands on his waist. In a way, Paul is relieved that she has relaxed, but he has to admit to himself that he was enjoying feeling her pressed against his back holding him tightly, although it was making it hard for him to keep his mind on the road. Without any warning he makes a left turn heading out of town. Katherine wonders if he knows where he is heading, but realizes it really doesn't matter, as long as they are together.

They spend the day riding, stopping every so often to stretch their legs or grab something to eat or drink. They are coming up to Springtown, a quaint little town know for the spas and shopping. It was once a booming town with the hot springs running underground, now mostly just a tourist attraction filled with artists of all kinds.

They stop at a little gallery of local artists and as they wonder through, Paul turns and asks, "Do you want to head home Katherine, or we could find a little bed and breakfast, spend the night and head home in the morning?"

"My only worry is Bart, honey, but maybe I could call my neighbors and see if they would take him out for his walk tonight." She replied. "They have a key to my house, just in case there should be any type of emergency."

"Why don't we get something to eat, see how we feel then, ok honey?"

While nothing would please him more than spending the night with her in a quaint little bed and breakfast, making love all night long, he doesn't want to risk losing her by moving too fast.

They find a little Japanese restaurant and decide to have some sushi. Just as they were about to enter, Paul's phone rings. They stop just outside the door, so as not to disturb any other diners. "Hello," Paul says. "Hi, mom, what's up?"

As Paul steps a couple of steps away, Katherine hears him ask "Is he alright, is it serious?" She can tell by the look on his face something is wrong. "Ok, mom, I will catch the first flight home." "Yes, yes, I will call you as soon as I know the flight." Ok, mom, love you too."

He hangs up and places his phone back in his jacket pocket and just looks at Katherine.

"What's wrong sweetie?" She asks. He begins to explain that his father was working on the farm because the weather was so nice and had an accident with the tractor. "Right now it doesn't look good for him Katherine."

Tears welling up in his eyes, Katherine just takes him into her arms. "Call the airline right now, honey. See when you can get a flight."

As Paul is talking on the phone, Katherine steps into the restaurant and orders them a cup of hot tea and a couple of rolls of sushi so that they can eat a quick bite before heading home. When she returns, Paul tells her he can get on the 9:00 flight. That means that they will have just enough time for him to drop her home, stop by the hotel and pack a light bag and be able to catch the flight.

"I am so sorry baby, for ruining your day." He says as he gives her a light kiss on the cheek.

"Paul, listen to me, I have had a wonderful day. You need to get home to see how your father is, I understand that. Let's eat quickly and hit the road so you don't miss that flight."

As they pull into her driveway, Katherine hops off the bike quickly, she knows Paul only has about an hour to pack a quick bag and make it to the airport. Paul removes his helmet just as she finishes removing hers, steps off the bike and takes her into his arms. "Thank you for understanding honey."

"Don't be silly Paul, it is your family, now go so you don't miss that flight."

"I will call you as soon as I land baby, I promise." With one long kiss goodbye, Paul gets back on the bike, turns around and heads out of her drive, waving as he leaves.

Katherine takes Bart for his walk and says a silent prayer for Paul's father. "Please let him be alright." After returning from their walk, Katherine lights a fire in the fireplace and just sits there waiting for word from Paul and remembering the days they have spent together. Feeling so close to him and yet so far away, she is deep in thought when her phone rings. "Hello."

"Hi, baby, I made it and I am on the way to the hospital right now."

"I am with you in spirit sweetie."

"I will call you in the morning with whatever news there is, ok honey?"

"Ok baby, try to get some rest tonight, please." Katherine says. Wanting so much to say I love you, and not knowing that on the other end of the line, Paul is dying to tell her he loves her, they just say their goodnights.

The next morning Paul calls Katherine bright and early, trying to catch her before she has to leave for work. He explains that his dad, Arthur, was trying to connect a plow to the tractor and didn't realize that the tractor was in gear and suddenly it shot backward and pinned his dad between the plow and the tractor. His father is in critical condition and right now it is touch and go. Katherine could feel his pain as she talked to him, wishing with all her heart that she was with him, to just be there, hold him, give him whatever support he needs "How is your mom holding up baby?" Katherine asks.

"She is scared, they have been married for over forty years and she will be lost without him. I actually had to insist that she go home last night and get some rest. I just don't know what my dad was thinking, he has men to help him around the farm." Paul says. "I should let you get ready for work Katherine, I don't want to make you late," he continues, "but I really needed to hear your voice this morning."

"I am sure everything will be fine, Paul, and I am here, call me with any news."

"Alright honey, talk to you tonight, or maybe before." Wanting so much to say the words I love you, Paul just says "Katherine you mean so much to me, I hope you know that."

"I feel the same way, Paul, later baby."

Katherine hangs up and thinks to herself, "Is this really love after such a short period of time? I never understood how people could say they loved someone after just a few days, I always figured it was just about sex. But I feel this connection with Paul that I have never felt with anyone else. Like we have known each other for years and are just figuring out how we really feel about each other. At my age I think I can tell the difference between just wanting to feel a body close to mine and a deep connection with someone's heart and soul." Katherine gets ready and heads for work, but her mind is in Nebraska with Paul. Though she checks her phone numerous times during the day, there are no calls from Paul. "That's good news," she thinks, "I am sure he would have called if there was any change in his condition.

Paul calls that night and tells her that Arthur is about the same, still in critical condition, but is no longer touch and go and that he will be staying in Nebraska until his father improves. The company was very understanding and insisted that his crew here could handle things without him for the week and then with the Christmas just around the corner, there was no need for him to hurry back, so just take all the time he needed. However, he plans on coming back the day after Christmas to check on the status of things and depending on how his dad was, he would either stay for a few days or immediately return to Nebraska. Katherine's heart sinks that it might be a long time before they are able to see each other again.

Chapter 6

The week seemed to pass by in slow motion for Katherine. She stopped by the bar a couple of times, to gather her thoughts and people watch, but every time the door opened she wished Paul would be the person who entered. They kept in touch nightly when Paul would call her with updates on Arthur's condition. He was doing much better, but had a long recovery ahead of him and the doctors were still worried about him developing any infections following surgery. They would also send little text messages throughout the day, just letting the other know they were in each other's thoughts.

Even though there had been endless Christmas parties and gatherings the last couple of weeks, Katherine could hardly believe that Christmas was just a couple of days away. Her sister, Dianna, was off on a trip with this month's man, somewhere warm and sunny, and although all of her friends had each invited her to share Christmas with them, she believed this holiday was meant for family. Rather than spend Christmas alone, Katherine decided to volunteer to work at the homeless shelter helping serve Christmas dinner. She knew it would help keep her mind off Paul and not being able to share the holiday with him.

On Saturday she gathered all of her Christmas decorations and her small Christmas tree and started decorating her home. Katherine had been collecting ornaments since she was a little girl and made sure that each and every one had a place on her tree. Decorating her tree allowed her mind to wander back to when she was a little girl when she and her mom, dad and sister would spend the whole night decorating the huge tree her father always insisted they have. She and Dianna were more trouble than help when decorating because all the ornaments seemed to end up in one area on the tree and as they would stand back eyeing their handiwork, their dad would always say, "Don't you girls think we should spread them out a little?" And of course their answer was always no, they loved it just the way it was. But after the girls were off to bed, their mother and father would always make the tree look like the ones they saw in magazines.

Katherine's thoughts drifted over the years, first when their father was no longer with them and it was just her, her mother and Dianna. Then after her mother got sick and was no longer able to enjoy the holidays, Dianna and Katherine tried to give her the best holiday they could. In just a few short years, it was just Dianna and Katherine and although they always included the other's partner at the time, Christmas hadn't felt like family to Katherine in a long time.

As Katherine stepped back to admire the tree, her phone rang. "Hello."

"Hi, honey, how are you today? Paul asked.

"I am good sweetie, I was just finishing up decorating the Christmas tree." She replied. "How is everything in Nebraska?"

"Better honey, Dad is doing much better and even though he won't be out of the hospital for Christmas, my mom is decorating the house and taking pictures so that he can see how everything looks. She is planning her usual big Christmas dinner for me, Matt and his family and I think she is even planning on trying to sneak some in to Dad in the hospital." He chuckles.

"That's wonderful babe and I hope she succeeds. I am sure your Dad would love a home cooked meal."

"You told me you had plans, right baby?" Paul asks. "I hate the thought of you spending the holiday all alone."

"Yes, honey, I am going to go to the homeless shelter and help serve lunch."

"What time do you think you will be home?"

"I should be home about 3, I think. Why?"

"I just want to call you as soon as you get home honey, and we can talk for hours, since we can't be together, is that ok with you?"

"Yes, babe, more than okay."

They talk for a little while longer. Paul asks Katherine about work and she tells him it has been a little slow, but then it always is around the holidays. She inquires about his work and he says that as far as he knows the guys here are doing a good job, they keep in touch with him on a daily basis and if they run into any problems, they immediately call him.

Later that afternoon finds Katherine running last minute errands before all the stores close for the holiday. She planned to make cookies tomorrow and take to all her neighbors, especially the Courtney's, her next door neighbors. They are the ones she turns to if she needs any help at all. Mr. Courtney has helped with a few things around her house so that she didn't have to call a repair man and Mrs. Courtney is always there to lend a hand with Bart. Realizing she is short on some ingredients, she will need to make a mad dash to the store to pick up all she will need for a couple of days. Even though she is planning on eating Christmas dinner at the shelter, Katherine wants to make sure she has enough in her pantry that she has something to cook during the holidays and there is one more gift that she wants to get Bart. She saw it the other day and thinks he will love it. It's a stuff toy that looks like a yule log. He loves to pick up sticks and carry them around when outside. He would bring them all in the house if Katherine allowed it. Bart's presents are the only ones under the tree, well, except for a small one for her sister that is.

Katherine is up early Christmas Eve morning finding it difficult to sleep in, even on a holiday. After having a cup of coffee or two, she begins making the cookies, she really would like to have them all delivered by lunchtime. Paul calls and she tells him she is right in the middle of baking cookies, so they just talk for a few minutes and he tells her to save him some and that he is planning on coming back the day after Christmas. His dad is doing well enough that he can leave for a few days, then he can return to help get his dad settled in at home. As she hangs up the phone she says to herself, "Just one more day." Katherine delivers all the cookies to her neighbors wishing each and every one of them a safe and happy holiday, knowing that most of them are either expecting family to arrive at any moment or getting ready to head to their children's homes.
Chapter 7

Paul called bright and early Christmas morning to wish Katherine a very merry Christmas. "Merry Christmas, darling. How are you doing today?"

"I am wonderful, sweetie. Just taking my time this morning, relaxing by the fire and enjoying my cup of coffee. You?"

"Mom is already hard at it in the kitchen, she wants to have everything ready before we leave for the hospital at noon so she can take Dad a plate to enjoy. I am not sure the nurses will allow him to eat it, but at least he will get to enjoy the smell if they don't." He chuckles. "Then we will enjoy her hard labor when we return and I plan on spending the rest of the afternoon with you."

"Oh, Babe, that's so sweet of you, but I don't want you to ignore your family. We will get to see each other when you return tomorrow or the next day."

"I know, honey, but I want to spend as much time as I can with you on this our first Christmas together."

"Me too honey, I am looking forward to snuggling up with you on the phone this afternoon and chatting away the evening." She tells him.

"Good." says Paul. "Until then honey, I will be counting the minutes."

Katherine gets ready and heads to the shelter. She wants to get there early and help get everything set up and plans on staying for just a little while after lunch to help clean up, but wants to hurry home so she won't miss Paul's call. Lunch goes smoothly and time just seems to fly, so fast that she doesn't get to people watch much. However, she does notice the young lady with the three small children, one only a few months old, a little boy probably no more than 5 or 6 and a little girl about 3, Katherine would guess. She also notices that she is trying hard to hide any evidence of her black eye and the cut on her lip. When she asked them what they wanted on their plates, the little boy just looked at his mother as if he was afraid to ask for any food and Katherine heard her tell him "Its okay honey, you can eat. You won't get in trouble here." It nearly broke her heart to see a child that was afraid to eat for fear of getting in trouble or worse. So she put a little of everything on their plates, trying as best she could to make sure that today they would not go hungry. And when she brought around the dessert a little while later, Katherine made sure there was a little extra ice cream on their pumpkin pie. Glancing at the mother as she set their plates down, and the mother said "thank you," Katherine could see so much more in her eyes. Before Katherine realizes it, it is past 2 pm so she says her goodbyes and heads out the door.

After taking Bart out, she decides to take a long, hot bath, get comfortable and wait for the call from Paul. She lights candles in both her bedroom and bath, puts some soft music on to play in the background, gets a glass of wine and climbs in the tub for a long, leisurely soak. Time just seems to slip past as she relaxes in the warm, sudsy water, slowing sipping her glass of wine, thinking of Paul and what might happen when he returns. She knows in her heart that she is falling in love with him, but is afraid to say the words. She rises from the tub, sudsy water dripping from her body, she towels off, throws on her robe and heads to the kitchen to refill her wine glass.

Wondering what has become of Bart and thinking he is probably laying in front of the fireplace, she heads to find him, but instead finds him standing at the front door, whining. Knowing she didn't hear the doorbell, she slowly opens the door to see if she can figure out what has gotten his attention outside. "It is probably just a cat or maybe that raccoon that enjoys getting into the trash can making a mess of everything." As she opens the door, she realizes that someone is standing there wearing a heavy overcoat with his back to the door. Trying to close the door quickly and without being noticed, he turns. It is Paul wearing the biggest smile she has ever seen and holding a beautiful bouquet of flowers.

Thinking she must be dreaming or maybe it is just the wine, she just stands there unable to say anything. "Aren't you going to invite me in, honey?" He asks.

"Of course, of course. I just don't understand. How? Why? I wasn't expecting you back today." She stammers.

As Paul closes the door, he shakes off his overcoat and tosses it on the chair, along with the bouquet of flowers, then he takes her into his arms and says, "I couldn't stand being away from you for another minute and not being with you on Christmas was breaking my heart. So here I am. I have been planning this for the last couple of days because I wanted to surprise you."

"Oh, Paul," were the only words she could manage before his mouth covers hers and they enjoy a long, lingering kiss.

Tongues exploring, seeking, growing greedier with every passing second until neither could breathe. As they pull apart, Paul looks deep into her green eyes and says, "Katherine, I am sure I am falling in love with you. I missed you every second, couldn't wait until I heard your voice and dreamed of lying with you, holding you in my arms, caressing your body, pouring all my love into you."

Still reeling from finding him standing on her doorstep, all Katherine could manage to say was, "I feel the same way." With that she takes his hand and leads him down the hallway to her bedroom.

As they entered, he pulled her into his arms once more and said, "Are you sure baby? I don't want to rush you."

"I am sure, Paul, more sure than anything else I have known in a long time. I know with all my heart that I am falling in love with you too."

She reaches up and softly strokes his cheeks, her fingers lightly flowing across his lips. He takes her face into his hands and pulls her to him, his mouth pressing down on hers again with such hunger, his tongue pressing deep into her mouth, searching, feeling every inch of her. He slides his hand to the back of her neck, his hand in her hair, pulling her deeper and deeper into the kiss.

Suddenly, Katherine pulls away and takes one step back, untying her robe as she does so, staring deep into his brown eyes, letting the robe slowly fall from her shoulders and pool around her feet.

As Paul stands there admiring her he says, "Your beauty takes my breath away."

Stepping towards her, he takes her into his arms once more, kissing her face and neck. Feeling his hot breathe on her throat, Katherine is lost in his arms. He sweeps her off her feet, gently laying her on the bed, takes a step back to allow him time to take in her beauty once more, her long lightly tanned legs, her breasts with their pink nipples. Paul feels his passion rising, but he wants only to please Katherine, so he lies down next to her without removing any of his own clothing. His caresses travel from her neck, down over her breasts and nipples, down her stomach and legs and back again all while he is running his nose along the base of her shoulder and up her neck, then moving to her mouth were he takes her lips into his, nibbling and tugging as his tongue plays with hers. Quivering from Paul's touch, feeling her whole body come to life under his touch, Katherine's heart is pounding and her breathing is coming in quick, short breaths.

Looking deep into Paul's eyes, Katherine says, "I want you."

Paul rises from the bed, stands and begins to unbutton his shirt. Removing his keys, phone and change from his jeans pockets, placing them on the night stand, he bends and slips off his shoes and socks, then stands and unzips his jeans and slowly peels them down, sitting on the edge of the bed, he finishes removing his jeans and tosses them into the pile on the floor. Katherine has been watching him the whole time, admiring his manliness, taking in his broad muscular shoulders and narrow hips. He lies on the bed, turning to face Katherine and she runs her fingers through the hair on his chest, feeling his firm, muscular chest, moving her hand down across his stomach, inching closer and closer to his manhood. He pulls her to him, feeling her nipples against his chest, kissing her hard and long, growing harder just thinking of making love to her. Katherine's hands traveling up and down his back and across his hips pulling him toward her.

Holding her in his arms, Paul rolls Katherine over onto her back, and hovers just above her looking into her eyes, "You are the most exquisite woman I have ever seen." He kisses her deeply and passionately, their passion for each other on the edge of exploding. Paul enters her with one swift movement and slowly they begin to move in unison, building higher and higher until neither can contain it any longer and they explode as one.

As their breathing and beating hearts return to normal, Paul pulls Katherine close to him, his breath in the back of her hair, arms tightly holding her and he whispers, "I love you Katherine, I think I fell in love with you the first time I saw you."

"I love you too Paul." She whispers, just barely loud enough for him to hear it.

They lie like that for what seems like hours, Paul softly caressing Katherine's breasts and stomach, working his way all the way down her body and back up again, all the while, kissing and nuzzling the back of her neck. "I could stay like this forever." They each thought.

Katherine suddenly remembers the flowers and how they got tossed on the chair along with Paul's overcoat. She sits up quickly and says, "I will be right back."

As Paul watches her rise and walk across the room, he can't help but think "I am the luckiest man in the world right now, she is gorgeous and carries herself with an air of beauty and confidence." As Paul lies there waiting for her to return, he begins to wonder what is taking her so long, and just as he is about to go check on her, she enters carrying a tray.

"I thought you must be famished honey, because you couldn't have had lunch and be able to make it here when you did."

"As a matter of fact babe, I haven't had anything since breakfast. I went to the hospital early this morning and after a short visit with Dad, I headed straight for the airport. There was no way I was going to miss my flight back to you."

As she sets the tray down, Paul notices that she has put together a little picnic feast, cheese and crackers, some sliced meat, sliced apples and grapes, a bottle of wine with two glasses and the flowers.

"This looks wonderful honey."

"Well, babe, it is not a home cooked meal, but I hope you like it. We can eat it here in bed or go into the den and sit by the fire, whichever you would prefer."

Setting the flowers on the night stand, she is dying to find out how he got them on Christmas Day. "I love the flowers baby, they are gorgeous, but how did you get them today, of all days? I know you didn't carry them back with you on the plane." She giggles.

He could just see himself sitting on a crowded plane, holding a bouquet of flowers throughout the whole flight and he has to smile at the thought. "You're right honey," he laughingly replies. "I told you I had been planning this for a couple of days, so I had them delivered to the office, then I stopped and picked them up on my way here."

Paul did not want to get up and get dressed yet so he said, "Why don't we just have our little picnic right here?"

Actually he was thinking he really wanted to make love to Katherine again, but she had gone to all the trouble to make sure he had something to eat and he had to admit that he was a little hungry. Katherine set the tray on the bed and gingerly climbed on so as not to spill anything and poured them each a half of glass of wine. She was facing Paul, with her legs crossed one under the other and he could not help but admire again how beautiful she was, so natural and comfortable with herself and besides this gave him the best view of her whole body, from her soft round breasts with their pink nipples, all the way down to her perfectly trimmed bikini area. "I must get my mind on other things," Paul thought, "or we will have food and wine all over the bed."

As they munched on the tray she had fixed, they chatted about simple things. Paul asked about the meat, it was delicious. "It is made by the chef at the bar. He calls it duck pastrami and he makes it himself. It is one of my favorites there."

"Well, we will just have to order it the next time we are there honey." Paul says.

Katherine asked about Arthur, how he was doing and how Paul's mother, Claire, felt about him leaving on Christmas Day. He told her that although she was a little disappointed, she understood his desire to be with Katherine and hoped that one day she would get to meet the woman that seemed to have finally caught his attention. Paul asked about lunch at the shelter and Katherine told him about the young woman and three kids and how it made her so sad to think that a small child should have to worry about getting in trouble for eating when he was hungry.

"What kind of parent or person would make a child feel that way?" She asked.

The question just sort of popped out and although she wasn't really expecting an answer, Paul said, "One that only thinks of themselves. No child should have to grow up in that way." "But knowing that it touched you as it did, shows me you have a heart of gold and would have made a wonderful mother." With that he leaned over and gave her a kiss on the tip of her nose. "Merry Christmas, honey." He said again.

Moving the tray to the night stand, he took her in his arms again and kissed her slowly and gently, then as their passion grew, the kiss became deeper and deeper until both were consumed by an all inspiring passion. They lay back on the bed, Katherine on top, Paul's hands caressing her back and buttocks. Katherine could feel his hardness pressed against her and she wanted to feel him deep inside her again. She wanted to feel his hands on her breasts, his tongue licking and sucking on each nipple, feeling them grow hard under his kiss and touch, her hands on his chest feeling his hard muscles ripple under her touch. Katherine could feel herself getting wet just thinking about Paul entering her again and feeling him pressing hard against her only made her desire grow. She lifted her body just slightly, reached down and gently guided his manhood into her awaiting body. A small gasp escaped Paul's lips as she slowly slid down the entire length. Then she began to move slowly up and down, his hands on her hips, his mouth moving from one breast to the other, driving her absolutely insane with desire and passion. As they began to move together, Paul thrusting to meet her each time she came down, moving faster and faster until each reached their climax, calling out the other's name as they came together hard. Katherine simply collapsed on Paul's chest, totally spent, her hair damp on her forehead.

"God, baby, that was magnificent," Paul finally managed to say, while kissing the top of her head over and over.

"Hmmmmm," was all Katherine could say, as they both drifted off to sleep.

Katherine awoke and glanced at the clock on the nightstand. "Oh my, its 9 and I haven't taken Bart out since I got home," she thought, "he must be going crazy wanting to go out." She quietly slipped off the bed, grabbed some jeans and a tee shirt and headed down the hall, trying to get dressed as she walked, almost tripping and falling trying to put on her jeans as she walked. She grabbed Paul's overcoat off the chair, slipped it on, and headed out the door with Bart. "Just a quick walk baby." She said to Bart. When she returned, Paul was still sound asleep and she didn't want to disturb him, "He must be exhausted." She thought. So she quietly slipped off her clothes and crawled back into bed, snuggling up next to him, where she drifted off to sleep within a few short minutes, thinking about all that had happened today.

Chapter 8

As Katherine's eyes fluttered open, Paul's face was the first thing she saw. Propped up one elbow, he was just watching her. "Morning sweetheart." He whispered.

"Morning baby," she replied, "Have you been awake long?"

"Just a little while, sweetheart, I have been enjoying the view." He replies as he kisses her lightly on the cheek and then lips.

"Oh, you are a sweet talker so early in the morning." She giggles. "I am going to go start the coffee, would you like a cup?"

"Yes, baby." Paul replies. "I will shower first, while you are gone, so that you won't be late for work." He continues.

"We really don't have to worry about that sweetie." She replies.

"Why not honey?"

"I am off the rest of the week baby, I took some vacation time so that we would have time to spend together when you returned. I wanted to surprise you."

"Really baby. I can't believe you did that. I just have to check in with the guys and then I will be all yours."

They enjoyed their coffee in front of the fireplace. Katherine has made a small fire to knock the chill out of the air. Paul decides to go to the office and check on things after finishing his coffee, then he and Katherine can plan the rest of their week. He is so looking forward to being able to spend the whole week with her, it is a dream made in heaven. After Paul leaves, Katherine takes Bart out for a long walk. Though the weather is really cool, the sun is shining and it is a great day. They walk slowly, Bart taking his time to really explore each new leaf that has fallen. Finally they return home and Katherine hops in the shower before Paul returns.

When Paul returns later in the morning, he has another surprise for Katherine. "What would you like to do this week honey?" He asks.

"Anything Paul, as long as I am with you."

"Well, I was thinking, we could go to Nebraska, you could meet my family, or I could take you to my home."

"San Francisco?" She almost shouts.

"Baby, I would take you anywhere you wanted to go. Don't you know that?"

"San Francisco is one of the places on my list to visit."

"Really baby, where else do you want to go?"

"Hawaii and Paris are the other two at the top of my bucket list." She replies with a slight giggle.

"Well, it will be a quick visit, but I would love to show you the town where I live." Paul says. "We can always plan a much longer trip when we have more time. I would love to take you to the wine country. We could stay in this great bed and breakfast that I know of. What about Bart, can you get someone to take care of him for a few days?"

"I am sure Mrs. Courtney would love to have Bart for a couple of days. I will walk next door right now and ask."

While Katherine is gone, Paul gets on the phone with the airline to see if they can get on a flight. When she returns he tells her they are holding 2 tickets for them on a flight that leaves at 3. There is a slight layover in Denver, but will be in San Francisco by 9 p.m. Paul is only able to do this because he flies a great deal with this airline all over the world. "Can she watch Bart for us honey?" Paul asks her as soon as she returns.

"She said yes, babe, what is one more and her grandkids will have a blast with him and I am sure he will be in heaven with all the attention he will get."

"Let me call the airline back and confirm and you need to get a bag packed babe." As Katherine heads toward her room, she can hardly believe this is happening, she is on her way to San Francisco and with the man she loves no less.

Not really knowing what they will be doing, she packs jeans, t-shirts, a couple of sweaters, a couple of sexy nightgowns she has been saving for just the right occasion and at the last minute she decides to pack her little black dress, just in case they go somewhere nice for dinner. Then she throws all her necessities in her overnight bag, just in case her suitcase should get lost somewhere.

Paul meets her halfway down the hall, "Ready honey?"

"I am so excited sweetheart, my heart is racing. All I have left to do is gather up Bart's food and walk him next door."

Together they walk Bart next door to the Courtney's' home. "Beth, this is Paul, Paul Beth," she introduces them. "Thank you so much Beth, we will only be gone a couple of days and you have my number if you need to reach me." Katherine tells her.

"Katie, hon, we will be fine and Bart will have a good time with us, you just enjoy the trip." Beth says.

As they are walking away, Paul says "Katie, I like that."

"That's what my dad always called me. I think Beth just kind of knew that and she has called me that since we first met."

As they head for the airport, Katherine can hardly believe this is happening. So much as happened in the last few weeks, things she never would have imagined would happen. Meeting a great guy, starting to fall in love and now here she was on her way to San Francisco.

Chapter 9

They got to the airport just in time to make the flight and only had a short layover in Denver and now they are landing in San Francisco. Katherine is giddy with excitement, like a little girl seeing the lights below them as the plane is making its descent.

"How do you feel about just heading to my house, picking up something to eat and relax for the rest of the night, Babe?" He asks. "We can get out tomorrow, see some sights and pick up anything we might need for the next couple of days. How about Chinese? There's a great place close to my house."

"Perfect sweetie," Katherine replies.

When they arrive at Paul's house, he carries in her bags, and Katherine has the takeout. After opening the door, Paul says "The kitchen is straight ahead honey, just put everything down. I will put your bags in the bedroom."

"Ok baby." She calls out as she heads in the direction he told her to go.

She sets everything on the table, then begins to open the cabinets searching for a couple of plates. She found some tea and decided to make them each a cup of hot tea to go with dinner.

As Paul enters the kitchen she had got some water on for the tea. "Making yourself at home, I see." He chuckles.

"Why of course babe," She replies. "I thought I would make us some tea to go with dinner. You don't have much else you know."

"I knew I would probably be gone for a few weeks, so I emptied everything out the frig before I left." He tells her. "Tea would be great sweetie. Need a hand with anything?"

"No babe, go ahead and start fixing your plate."

Over dinner, Paul tells her that tomorrow he wants to show her the Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman's Wharf.

"I would love that babe. You be the guide. I am sure I will enjoy everything."

They take their tea and go into the living room to just relax. Katherine notices that the package that was sitting outside the door has been brought in, but Paul has not opened it yet. Curious, but realizing that it really is not any of her business, she lets the subject lie. She also notices that it is very nicely wrapped, which means that it is probably from a woman. Maybe someone Paul works with, after all it is the holidays and they all thought he would be home before Christmas.

Sitting on the sofa, Paul's arm around her, her head on his shoulder, Katherine just drifts off to sleep. "This feels so right." He thinks as he gently brushes his hand over her cheek, moving her hair from her eyes.

As he turns to look at her, the package catches his eye. "I am going to have to do something about that tomorrow. I can't have anything or anyone coming between me and Katherine." Paul knows who left the package, he read the card when he brought it inside.

"Baby, let's get you to bed. I think everything that happened today has exhausted you." He says as he gently nudges Katherine awake. Then he picks her up and carries her to his bedroom. He gently removes her shirt and jeans and puts her under the covers. Then he undresses and climbs in next to her, holding her in his arms until they both fall asleep.

True to his word, Paul showed Katherine the sights the next day. They started off by going over the Golden Gate Bridge, parking on the other side so that Katherine could view the bay. How she wished she had brought her Nikon camera, a shot from here would be perfect to add to her collection. Then he took her down to Fisherman's Wharf where they walked among all the shops and snacked at some of the restaurants. Paul was trying his best to give her a taste of San Francisco and squeeze as much as they could into this trip. They had a great time exploring all there was to see and do. They picked up some fish and other things they would need for dinner that evening. On the way back to Paul's they rode the cable cars, hanging off the back like little kids. Katherine was enjoying this day so much and growing to love Paul more and more with every passing second. Paul also told her that after dinner, he would like to take her down to ice skate around the Christmas tree. While a little worried, Katherine said she would love to because she knew he would be by her side the whole time, just like before.

After arriving back at Paul's and putting all the food away, Katherine said "Do you mind if I take a quick shower before we fix dinner, sweetie?"

"No baby, you know where everything is, make yourself at home."

As she was walking down the hall toward the bathroom, she noticed the package again, still in the same place as last night. Still wondering why he had not opened it, she reminded herself it wasn't any of her business. After all they were just beginning to get to know each other and she knew that he had many friends and girlfriends in the past. "It could be from anyone." She told herself.

Paul also realized that the package was in the same spot and he hadn't done anything about it today, he did not want to spoil the day for either of them. As he heard the bathroom door close, he picked up the phone and dialed the number. "Shit, straight to voicemail." He muttered. "I can't leave her a message. I need to have this conversation in person or at least over the phone."

Realizing he was not going to be able to handle the situation this evening, he walked toward the bathroom, gently tried the knob, which was unlocked, and slipped in. He could see the outline of Katherine's body through the shower curtain, and as much as he wanted to join her, he did not want to do anything to ruin what he thought they had going, so he quietly slipped back out of the bathroom and headed for the kitchen.

"I will get everything started for dinner. Surprise her again." He chuckled.

"I thought I would get everything started Honey." Paul says as Katherine walks into the kitchen. "Feel better Baby?"

"Yes sweetie, I think I needed that shower. It has been a long day and I thought I smelled like fish." She giggles.

Paul had the salmon broiling in the oven and was throwing together a salad. "Do you want anything else babe?

"No, honey this is wonderful," she replies, "We snacked a lot today at the Wharf, so salmon and a salad sounds perfect to me."

As Paul opens the frig he asks, "Wine or would you like a beer honey?"

"A beer would be great honey." She replies as she takes a chair at the table. "I haven't had anyone fix me dinner in a long time. It's very nice."

"I thought we would have a light dinner then head down and do some ice skating, if you still feel like it babe."

"Sure sweetie, as long as you are by my side."

They finish their dinner, slip on their coats and head down to the ice rink. It is huge and right in the middle is a big Christmas tree. Paul says "We won't stay long baby, I know you are tired, but I really wanted you to see and enjoy this."

"Ok honey, let's hit the ice, and I hope not literally." She laughs.

They get their skates and Paul leads Katherine out onto the ice. There are a lot more people here than back home and Katherine is really nervous about falling or causing someone else to fall, but Paul is right by her side just like he was before and gently glides her out onto the ice. They spend the next couple of hours skating and behaving like little kids. Katherine is finding that she really enjoys ice skating now that she has gotten the hang of it. "I will have to do this more at home." She thinks to herself.

Paul can tell that she is getting tired so he says, "Ready to head home, Katie?"

"I am honey, it has been a long but very enjoyable day." "I love San Francisco."

They are just chatting away as they approach Paul's house and as Katherine looks up she sees that someone is sitting on his front step. As they get closer, she realizes that it is a woman. A woman much younger than herself. Paul sees her at just about the same time as Katherine. "Damn." He says under his breathe.

Just as they get to his front steps the girl stands and comes bounding down the steps. "You are home baby." She says. "Did you find my gift?"

Katherine gives Paul a little sideways glance and rolling his eyes, he mouths the words, "I am sorry honey."

"Yes, Sara, I found it when we got home yesterday. I tried to call you, but it went straight to your voice mail." He tells her as he brushes past her to unlock the door.

"I know baby, that's why I am here. I saw you called." Sara says.

Katherine is starting to feel very uncomfortable being in the middle of this situation.

"We have to talk." Paul says as he unlocks the door. "Katherine, baby, I will be right in, ok?"

"Take your time, Paul." She replies as she steps through the door.

As the door is closing Katherine hears Paul say, "Sara, I told you weeks ago that it was over."

"I know, but I missed you and hoped that you missed me and that you had changed your mind." Sara replies.

Katherine takes a seat on Paul's sofa and her mind is spinning a mile a minute, "When did he try to call her, we were together the whole time?" She can hear their mumbled voices outside though she can't hear what is being said. "Oh my, what have I gotten myself into?" She wonders as she heads toward the bedroom. "I think I need to head home and let him handle whatever this is." She picks up her phone and calls for a taxi, then begins to gather her things and pack her bags. She coming down the hallway as Paul comes through the front door.

The first thing he sees is that she is carrying her bags. "Babe, where are you going?" He asks.

"I need some time Paul, I don't know what I have gotten myself in the middle of, but I just need to go and think things over. I hope you understand."

"Let me explain baby." He says.

"Maybe tomorrow sweetie, but right now I need some time."

They hear the horn from the taxi outside. "I am going to a hotel. I will talk to you tomorrow. You take care of whatever you need to, ok?" She continues, then she opens the door, and heads down the steps to the awaiting taxi.

As Paul watches the taxi pull away, all he can think is how did this get so messed up within the span of just a few minutes. He wanted desperately to follow her, explain everything, but he knows her well enough to know not to push her. She needs to think and he hopes with all his heart that this incident will not come between them. Knowing he will not get any sleep tonight, "I need a beer." He says as he heads for the kitchen.

In the cab, tears begin to roll down her cheeks. "Take me to a hotel close to the airport please." She tells the driver. Deep in her heart she knows that she should have let him explain, she just couldn't and she was afraid that if she stayed, he would take her into his arms and she would be hurt more in the long run. "I just need to sort this out in my head. I didn't expect that and I don't know how to handle it, especially not after the last few days." She kept saying over and over to herself.

After checking in Katherine grabs her bags and heads straight for the bar. "I need a stiff drink." After ordering a bourbon, she picks a small table in the back. "I will just have one and then head up to my room, though a part of me would love to get really drunk right now and forget ever seeing that girl." She groans. She finishes her drink and the bartender brings over another one.

"I didn't order another." She says to him.

"No, the gentleman at the bar sent it over," he explains as he sets the glass down in front of her. She glances in the direction the bartender pointed and realizes an older gentleman is watching her. She raises the glass to him in a salute and mouths the words "Thank you," and takes a sip.

Right now she really wishes she and Dianna were closer. She could really use someone to talk to, help her figure out if she was wrong to leave without letting Paul explain. She was just so hurt at the time, feeling like neither one of them cared that she was there and while she couldn't hear what was being said, the fact that they were having the conversation while she was there hurt her deeply. She knew the girl didn't care, or else she would not have kept calling Paul "baby" right in front of her. Katherine also knew that by doing so, she was staking her claim to him and she wanted Katherine to know. "I am sure I did exactly what she was hoping I would do. Damn it, I probably played right into her hands." She thought.

Back at Paul's house he is on his fourth beer of the evening, trying desperately to drown his fears in the alcohol. Suddenly his doorbell rings and hoping that Katherine has returned to talk this out, he jumps up and heads for the door. "Coming." He calls out. But that last beer is taking a toll on him since he is not normally a heavy drinker.

"I am so glad you came back Katherine." He shouts while opening the door.

"Baby, I think we really need to talk more, now that she is gone." Sara says.

Leaning on the door, his eyes unable to see clearly, "Katherine?"

"No baby, it's me Sara. I watched her leave and thought we should talk, but I wanted to give you a little while to cool down."

"Now is not a good time Sara, you really should leave."

"Oh, baby, I can see you are having a hard time right now, let me come in and make sure you are alright, and then I will go." Sara says as she slides in through the open door. Gently closing the door, she puts her arms around Paul, "Let me help you to bed, then I will let myself out, ok baby? We can talk when you are feeling better." As Paul staggers down the hall, Sara holding him and trying to keep him steady on his feet. As they enter the bedroom, Paul staggers to the bed, flops down and immediately passes out. Knowing this is her opportunity, Sara undresses him down to just his underwear, pulls the covers over him, gently closes the door and heads into the guest bedroom to make herself at home. "I wonder if this is where she slept." Sara muses to herself. "Probably, she seemed like a prude to me."

At the hotel, Katherine is finishing her second drink and has to admit she is feeling the effects of the bourbon. She rises, picks up her bags and heads for the door. "That should help me sleep," she thinks, "otherwise I would have been up all night, crying and going over everything over and over in my head." Suddenly she feels a hand on her elbow. It is the gentleman that bought her the drink.

"Can I help you to your room? You look a little unsteady." He says.

"Thank you, but no, I am fine." Katherine replies.

"Hon, I think I should see that you get to your room alright." He whispers in her ear.

Almost shouting, Katherine says, "I told you I am fine, now leave me alone." As the tears start to fall again, Katherine rushes from the bar and heads to her room. In her room, she drops her bags and throws herself on the bed, crying until there is nothing left and she drifts off to sleep.

Chapter 10

As Paul awakens the next morning, an arm and leg are draped over him, feeling the heat of another body next to his, he tries hard to remember last night. Katherine left, but then she returned and she stayed with me. "Why can't I remember? Did we talk? Did she understand?" The thoughts are coming in faster than he can process them and before he turns over to wish her a good morning, he wants to remember how they ended things last night before falling asleep. The last thing he wants is to make matters worse by not remembering what they talked about. Laying there, he tries to remember. She left. I had a several beers, way too many. Then Sara showed up. Yes, it is coming back to him now. He told Sara to leave but that is the last thing he remembers. When did Katherine come back? I remember someone helping me to bed. Was that Katherine. Straining to remember, he suddenly realizes that it was Sara that said she would help him to bed. "Oh no, what have I done." He groans. He feels the body next to him stir and as she stretches and moves next to him, he realizes without any doubts that it is not Katherine next to him. Suddenly, he hears, "Good morning baby." As he leaps from the bed, he screams "Tell me nothing happened last night. I know I was pretty drunk, but I know nothing happened."

"Oh baby. I am hurt that you don't remember. It was like nothing we have ever shared before." Sara says feigning hurt and disappointment.

"I don't believe you Sara, I would never hurt Katherine like that. I love her."

"You were a little drunk baby, but you were also hurt and angry that she left in such a huff and even said that you were through with her. Besides baby, how do you explain being totally nude, if nothing happened. Do you think I could have totally undressed you all by myself?"

Needing to think, Paul just says, "I am going to make a cup of coffee. Now get dressed Sara." Then he storms out of the room.

Sara knowing she has him believing that something happened last night will never confess to him that she actually spend most of the night alone in the guest bedroom. That sometime during the night he must have removed the rest of his clothing and that she actually only came in just a little while ago. Sara is sure that if Paul believes they slept together, he will drop this Katherine person and come back to her. What Sara doesn't realize is that with or without Katherine, Paul will never be with her again. She is not what he wants and never will be.

Out in the kitchen, Paul is waiting on the coffee to finish making. He finds his cell phone laying on the table and tries to call Katherine, but it goes straight to her voicemail. What he doesn't realize is that any moment Katherine will be arriving at his front door.

The doorbell rings and as Paul is walking toward the door, "Please let that be anyone but Katherine." Opening the door, she is standing there. He can tell she had a hard night, her eyes are still pink and her face is flushed. "Honey, please let me explain before you say anything." He begins.

"That's why I came over sweetie. I should not have left the way I did last night. I should have given you the chance to explain. I feel so bad for walking out the way I did."

"I need to explain something first, please listen to me Katherine."

But before Paul can say anything about Sara being here, she walks down the hall. Though dressed, she is wearing a smug face. "Is the coffee ready baby." She asks.

Losing all control, Paul turns and shouts, "I told you to stop calling me that and you really need to leave now, Sara and take the package with you."

As Katherine looks from Paul to Sara, she can only imagine that Sara spent the night here. After all, she came from the direction of the bedrooms, not the kitchen. Taking a deep breath and strengthening her resolve not to let Sara see that she has any effect on her, Katherine, says "Paul, I think you have issues you need to resolve before we can proceed further. I just wanted to let you know that I will be heading home today. I think you should return to Nebraska and take care of your family. I don't want to stand in the way of that happening. We can talk when you return to Huntsville. I want you to know that I have enjoyed the time we have spent together and I thank you with all my heart for showing me San Francisco." She turns and starts down the steps, Paul following her. "Honey, please let me explain. I don't want you to leave."

Turning and seeing Sara standing at the door behind Paul, Katherine walks up to him, kisses him on the cheek and whispers, "I love you, talk to you soon." Then she heads down the sidewalk, fumbling for her phone, trying as hard as she can to maintain her composure until she is sure she is out of the sight.

Waiting on the taxi around the corner, the tears start to fall. "I know in my heart that he wouldn't do anything to deliberately hurt me. I was the one that left last night, so if anyone is to blame for anything that may have happened between him and Sara, it is me." She thinks. She pulls out her cell phone again and dials the airline to see if she can switch her return flight to today. They tell her that she will have to be on standby, so it looks like she will be spending the day sitting at the airport rather than enjoying seeing the sights of San Francisco with Paul.

Not knowing that Katherine is just around the corner, Paul paces up and down the sidewalk in front of his house, refusing to go back inside until Sara has left. "What could I have said or done?" He thinks. Feeling like he has lost all control of his life, he just paces back and forth, back and forth. "Katherine is right, I need to go home, talk to mom and figure how and if I can fix this. I don't want to lose her, not like this." With that thought in mind Paul goes inside, calls the airline and gets a new ticket to Nebraska.

Chapter 11

After speaking with the clerk at the ticket counter and finding out that so far there have been no cancellations, Katherine finds a seat far away from the crowd of people who are waiting for their planes to board. Knowing she may be here awhile, she pulls out her cell phone and realizes that there are two missed calls from Paul. The one from this morning just before she arrived at his house and one just a little while ago. Torn between wanting to call him back and hear his voice, but realizing that right now she just doesn't know what to say, she simply clears the message. "This trip started out so wonderful," she thinks, "We only had one more day. Maybe we should have went to Nebraska instead. Then none of this would have happened and things would be so different." Glad that she had gotten a pad and pen from the gift shop, she began to write down her thoughts, hoping that in doing so, she could put things in perspective.

Meanwhile, Paul is just arriving at the airport to catch his flight. After parking the rental car, he drops off the keys and heads to the ticket counter. Not knowing whether Katherine has been able to get on a flight home today or not is driving him crazy. "I hate the thought that she may have to spend another night in San Francisco alone." He thinks. "I wish I could talk to her, make sure she is alright and find out where she is." Never in his wildest dreams could Paul have imagined everything that has happened on this trip. He had so many hopes for this trip, that maybe she would love San Francisco like he did.

Katherine glances up and sees Paul standing at the ticket counter. After getting his ticket and boarding pass from the clerk, he turns and their eyes meet for the briefest of minutes. Paul starts towards her, but they announce that his plane is now boarding and as all the people rise and start towards the awaiting line, he loses sight of her. Trying to make his way through the crowd of people saying their last goodbyes, he is sure that was her, but when he gets to where she was sitting, she is gone. Turning and scanning the crowd, he doesn't see her anywhere.

Katherine has slipped into the ladies room. Although she wanted to talk to Paul, this is not the time or place for a long discussion of what happened last night. Waiting until she hears the announcement that it is the last call for boarding on his flight, she opens the door and peeks out. Not seeing him anywhere, she exits the ladies room and takes a seat, hoping that she will hear shortly if she is going to be able to get on a flight home today. Just then, she hears her name come over the loudspeaker, requesting that she come to the ticket counter. Taking a deep breath, she rises and walks over to the clerk. The clerk tells her that she is in luck, there has been a cancellation and they will be able to get her on the next flight which leaves in two hours. "Thank you, thank you so much." She tells the clerk as she hands her the ticket. As relief washes over her, knowing that she will now be headed home, Katherine decides to grab something to eat while she waits. With the flight and layover in Dallas, it will be very late when she gets home. "I can relax and think clearly when I get home." She sighs.

As Katherine is boarding her flight home, Paul is just getting ready to get back on the plane after the layover in Denver. Knowing that he will be back in Nebraska in a just a short while. "Mom will understand and maybe she can help me sort all this out. I know over the years she and dad had their own issues, but they always worked things out and grew to love each other more. That's what I need right now, the advice of someone who has been through tough times." He thinks.

Chapter 12

Paul walks around the house he grew up in. No one is home right now, but Claire still has it decorated for Christmas. He is sure that they are all at the hospital with his father, but he just didn't have the energy to stop on the way to the house. After all they were not expecting him back today. As far as they knew, he and Katherine were having a wonderful time in San Francisco.

"I will go back later and check on him."

He hears the front door open and can hear his mother talking to Matt. Coming down the stairs, he hears her telling Matt what she wants him to do, so that Arthur will be comfortable when he is able to come home in a few days. Claire plans on setting up a place for him downstairs in the den until he is fully recovered. It will mean moving most of the furniture out, but he will stay warmer down here and the stairs would be too much for him. At that moment, Paul is glad he came home. Now he can help get everything ready for his dad's release from the hospital and he will have time to think and sort through all that has happened. "This is what Katherine was trying to tell me. How did she know my family needed me?" He wondered as he stood there watching his mom.

"Paul, what are you doing here?" Claire exclaims when she sees him standing on the bottom step.

"I thought maybe Matt could use some help." He chuckles. "Actually, Mom, something happened in San Francisco and I needed to come home and get your advice, but we can do that later. Maybe tonight you and I can just sit and talk. Right now it sounds like you have plenty to keep Matt and I busy for the rest of the afternoon."

"Glad to have you home, son, and I am sure Matt appreciates the help as much as I do." She says as she gives him a big hug. "We all hope Arthur will be home in the next few days. He is doing much better and driving the nurses crazy." She says laughingly. "He refuses to do what they ask. Stubborn, old man. But I love him more than I ever. I was so worried those first few days. Afraid he would leave me. I just don't know what I would have done if he hadn't pulled through." She says as she is dabbing the tears from her eyes.

"We know, Mom, but he is better and well enough to come home soon." Matt replies. "So only good thoughts from now on. Okay Paul, let's get to it and get this room ready. They will be delivering the bed soon."

"Where are we going to put all this stuff, Matt?" Paul asks.

"For now, let's put it in Dad's workshop. He won't be using that for quite a while." Matt laughs. "I will pull Dad's truck up to the front steps. Back in a minute."

When Matt is out of earshot Claire turns to Paul and says, "Did something happen between you and Katherine son? You seemed so happy just a few days ago."

"Yes, Mom, I hurt her without meaning to and I don't know what to do. I seems like in just the blink of an eye, we went from having a wonderful time to this mess I seem to have myself in."

Paul hears Matt come back in the front door. "Let's talk about all this later Mom. Right now we need to get this room ready for Dad."

"Alright son, I just want you to know that I love you and will do whatever I can to help you." She kisses his cheek and heads for the kitchen to make some coffee and something sweet.

Later that night after the house has grown quiet and it is just Paul and Claire sitting by the fireplace, she says, "Are you ready to tell me what is going on, Paul?"

"It's so hard knowing where to start, Mom. Everything was going great. We had a nice flight and first night in San Francisco and then I took her sightseeing and we had a great time. It was one of the best days I have had in a long time, but then all the days I have spent with Katherine have been great. She makes me feel so at ease with myself, I don't have to pretend to be something I am not."

"Then what is the problem Paul?"

"When we first arrived at my house there was a package on the steps. I carried it in and put on next to the table by the door. I didn't open it, but I did read the card. It was from Sara. I had intended to return it to her, but Katherine and I were enjoying the evening so much, that I put off calling her until we returned from our day out. I tried to call Sara, but it went straight to her voicemail, so I didn't leave a message. Then Katherine and I left to go ice skating last night and when we returned Sara was sitting on the steps."

"Oh, my." Was all Claire could manage saying.

"I didn't invite Sara in, we talked on the steps and I told her it was still over between us."

"And where was Katherine during this conversation, Son?

"I let her in the house and told her I would be right in. Sara and I only talked for a few minutes, but when I came in Katherine had her bags packed. Then she left without letting me explain anything. I could tell she was hurt, but I don't understand why she wouldn't talk to me."

"Well son, she may have overheard your conversation with Sara and felt like she was intruding. Women can be that way you know. From what you have told me about Katherine, I think she has a very strong intuition. People like that can read a situation better than anyone and she probably felt like she didn't belong."

"I understand that Mom, but I wanted to explain that there was nothing between me and Sara and she wouldn't let me. That part I don't understand."

"How was Sara behaving?"

"She kept calling me baby, even after I asked her to stop." Paul tells her as he runs his hands through his hair.

"Paul, honey, she was staking her claim on you, in front of Katherine. That's why she kept doing it. She wanted Katherine to know that she was there first. Why didn't you talk to Katherine this morning?"

"I wanted to. I called but she didn't pick up. Then she showed up at the house, but all hell was breaking loose. I woke up and found Sara in my bed. Mom, I know nothing happened. I was too drunk. Sara showed up last night, when I was drinking, and said she would help me to bed. I passed out, but when I woke up there she was, feigning innocence and claiming that we had the best night we have ever shared."

"Katherine knew she was there?"

"Of course. Before I had a chance to tell her, Sara came walking down the hall from the bedrooms. I saw a brief flash of pain in Katherine's eyes and it broke my heart. Then she turned and walked down the steps. She said I should come home and help get everything ready for Dad. The last thing she said was she loved me and would talk to me soon."

"And I am sure she does Paul, but she is scared. People come to each relationship with baggage. Unfortunately, she got to see yours face to face and that is hard on any woman. And if I remember correctly, Sara is younger than you. Right?"

"Yes, but she doesn't hold a candle to Katherine."

"I understand that's how you feel, son, but let me give you a woman's perspective. Maybe that will help you understand why she left. First she come's face to face with part of your baggage. She knew you had had other women in your life, but after having a couple of very special days with you, suddenly, there is one right in front of her, staking her claim to you. She was torn between wanting to step out on the porch and show Sara that you and her are together, and yet give you the chance to handle it without making you feel like you have to choose. The longer your conversation lasted with Sara, the more uncomfortable she became. Wondering why was it taking so long for you to just say goodbye. Women are like that, honey. To a woman, a goodbye is just that. Goodbye. It only takes a few seconds. And the fact that Sara is younger than her probably made her feel even more insecure, as it would any woman."

"Mom, it sounds like you know exactly how Katherine feels."

"Paul, you know your father and I have had some ups and downs. There is no way you can be with someone for as many years as we have and not go through some difficult times. I am not saying that your father was ever unfaithful to me. But when he was younger, there were many women who thought he was very attractive and didn't care that he and I were together. So, yes son, I can relate to how Katherine was feeling. It is up to you to show her how much she means to you. Only you can do that Paul. I think she gave you the opening with her last words to you."

"You're right Mom. Thank you so much. I will help get Dad settled in, then I will head back to Huntsville, call Katherine and show her know how much she means to me. I can only hope that she will still feel the same way in a day or two."

"I think you should do something tonight, Son. Just let her know you are thinking of her." Claire tells him as she rises. "I will give you some privacy. See you in the morning."

As Paul rises to give Claire a hug, "I love you Mom. Thank you for listening."

Paul paces back and forth in front of the fireplace. "Will a message be enough?" He keeps thinking. "I want her to know she is the only one on my mind, but I don't want to make matters worse." Deciding that he has nothing to lose, he pulls out his phone and types "Thinking of you, wishing you were here. I love you Katie."

Katherine was just getting out of the bathtub when she hears the message tone go off on her phone. "It has been a long day since that layover got extended in Dallas. I can't believe I have only been home long enough to unpack and take a long bath." She thinks. "And tomorrow I have to go get Bart from the Courtney's. I really don't know what to say about the early return home and I am sure Beth will ask." Grumbling under breath, "It is probably Dianna. I am not sure I can take any of her good news right now, not after the day I have had."

Katherine walks into the kitchen to get a glass of wine. "I can't believe how empty the house feels without Bart." She thinks. "This is the first time he hasn't been home with me, not counting the night he had to stay at the vet's." Picking up her phone off the counter, she hits messages and there it is right in front of her, the message from Paul. Standing there, trying to decide whether to respond or not. Realizing that Paul has probably had as bad a day as she has, she decides to answer. "Missing you too. Love K." and she hits send.

Katherine takes her glass of wine into the den, builds a small fire and pulls a chair closer to the flames. While she knows it is only the day taking its toll on her, she feels a chill. Knowing she needs time to think, she just sits and goes over the last few days over and over in her mind. "I know what we feel for each other is real. We just have to figure out how to get past this little problem and we can only do that together. If I cut him out of my life now, I will never know what could have been." She muses. "I have to give him a chance or I will regret it for the rest of my life." Remembering how good it felt to be in his arms, she drifts off to a deep but troubled sleep.

Chapter 13

Waking early the next morning, Katherine realizes that she fell asleep in the chair last night. Stretching and yawning, she rises and heads towards the kitchen. "Coffee, maybe that will get my brain moving this morning." She chuckles. As she glances at the clock on the stove, she sees that it is only 4:40. Since she is still off work, "It is going to be a long day." She grumbles. "Oh well, I can get a few things done around here. With the weather getting colder each day, there are a few things I still need to get done. As soon as I know the Courtneys are up, I will go over and get Bart. I missed his company last night."

Paul and Claire are on their way to the hospital. The doctors have advised them that Arthur is doing well enough to be released, though he will have to be careful and will have to take it very easy for quite a while. Paul and Matt have both been very explicit to the men who help Arthur around the farm that Arthur is to do absolutely nothing and if they have any questions they are to call Matt. Matt has taken off work and plans on being at the farm every day, though there is not much to do during the winter except to make sure the cattle are feed and in a warm place.

Paul has already made plans to return to Huntsville tomorrow after getting Arthur all settled in at home. Paul hopes that by coming back on the day they were supposed to return, he will have the rest of the weekend with Katherine and they can get back to where they were before all this happened. He sent her a quick text message this morning, just to let her know that Arthur was doing well enough to be released from the hospital.

As they enter the house, Arthur is overwhelmed by all the Christmas decorations. Claire took pictures for him to have while in the hospital, but seeing it all in person was so much better. What he doesn't know is that they have a surprise for him. Christmas just didn't seem the same with him in the hospital, so they decided to wait until he got out of the hospital to celebrate. The whole family will be here later to celebrate with him. "Something sure smells good." He says.

"Just a little lunch I am cooking, my love." Claire replies.

"After all that hospital food, I am ready to eat whatever you put in front of me." He chuckles.

"We are going to get you all settled in, honey. Let you rest for a bit and by the time you are ready to eat, everything will be all ready." Claire tells him. "Paul is staying until tomorrow and I am sure Matt will stop by later." She says as she gives Paul a wink.

"It feels like I have been resting for weeks honey," Arthur replies. "I need to check on the livestock."

"Oh no you don't." Claire and Paul reply in unison.

"Doctor's orders. You are not to do anything but get well." She continues.

They take Arthur into the den where the hospital bed has been set up. Claire had the boys move his favorite recliner next to the fireplace so that he could sit there during the day and stay warm and comfortable, making sure that he has a good view of the television if he wants to watch something.

"I thought I was going to get to sleep in my own bed." Arthur says, almost shouting.

"You will honey, but for now you will be much more comfortable here. You won't have to try to climb those stairs and the bed adjusts just like the one in the hospital, so if you need to raise the head or foot you can."

"Claire, I have had enough of hospital beds." Arthur replies.

"Arthur, don't argue with me about this. We assured the doctors that you would take it easy and get plenty of rest, or I don't think they would have released you just yet."

Paul is standing near the door, watching and chuckling under his breath, knowing all too well who is going to win this argument.

"Alright Claire." Arthur reluctantly replies. "But just as soon as I can climb those stairs without any help, I want to sleep in our bed."

"Deal." Then she turns to Paul and says, "Help your father into the chair or bed, whichever he wants. I am going to go and check on dinner."

As she is leaving the room, Arthur says to Paul, "She is as stubborn as the day is long."

"Dad, she wants you to get well as much as or more than you want it. This has been really hard on her, so just humor her please."

"Ok, son. I think I will sit my recliner and wait for that dinner that smells so good."

Paul gets Arthur all situated, starts a fire in the fireplace and hands Arthur the television remote. "I'm going to go and see if Mom needs any help with dinner. You ok Dad? Matt should be here in a bit."

"Sure son. I will be right here waiting."

As Paul is walking towards the kitchen, he pulls out his cell phone to check for any messages, realizing that he hasn't called the office today. Fortunately he doesn't have any missed calls, but sees a message. It is from Katherine. "I am happy Arthur is going home today. Love K." Seeing this message from Katherine makes Paul smile and he is still smiling when he enters the kitchen.

"I am sure that smile is not because your father didn't put up nearly the fight I thought he would." Claire says with a huge grin.

"You are right Mom. Katherine sent me another message. Maybe all hope is not lost after all."

"Paul darling, it is the little things that matter the most. She is letting you know that you are on her mind and all you both need is a little time."

"One more day, Mom. Just one more day."

Suddenly Matt and his family come through the back door trying to be as quiet as possible.

"Good, everyone is here now. Let's go and surprise Dad." Claire says.

No wanting to give anything away to Arthur, they tiptoe to the den. Claire is carrying a tray of food for Arthur. Everyone else will fix a plate after they surprise him. As they enter the den, the children run up to Arthur yelling, "Merry Christmas Grandpa."

"Oh, this is the best day ever." He says. "I got to come home and now all my family is here. Merry Christmas kids. I love you all." Tears welling up in his eyes, Arthur feels all the love his family has for him. "I didn't expect all this today." He continues.

"Everyone fix a plate and we will all sit in here, picnic style." Claire says.

The evening flew past, the children watching Arthur open all the presents as they presented them to him one by one. Everyone laughing and just enjoying being together. In the back of everyone's mind they all knew things could have turned out very different. Arthur was the first to say that he was growing tired, it had been a long day, but one that he will never forget. Matt and his family said their goodbyes and Paul helped Arthur to bed. As Claire sat next to the bed, holding Arthur's hands, Paul said, "I have some news for you two."

"What more could happen today?" Arthur said. "Go ahead son, we are listening."

"The company wants me to manage the office in Huntsville. I have been struggling with the idea for a couple of weeks, but I have finally made a decision."

"And?" Claire asks.

"Depending on what happens tomorrow with Katherine, I am taking the job. It will be a fresh start for me and I think I need that. And I will be much closer, so I will be able to come home more often to check on both of you and if things go as I hope they will, you will be able to meet Katherine very soon."

"I think that is a perfect solution, Son." Claire says. "Sometimes you just have to leave your baggage behind."

As Arthur glances back and forth between the two, not understanding what Claire meant about baggage, he realizes that a lot has happened while he has been in the hospital. As Claire pats his hand, she whispers, "I will explain everything later."

"Tomorrow is going to be a long day for me and you two need some time alone. I think I will head upstairs and get my bag packed. Love you both." Paul kisses Claire's cheek and whispers, "Thank you again Mom."

Chapter 14

Paul gets up early and gets ready to head to the airport. There is no way he is going to miss this flight back to Katherine. He says his goodbyes to his mom and dad and tells them that he will call as soon as he lands in Huntsville, and that he will be back as soon as he can. They wish him all the best and Claire whispers "Just show her how you feel son, remember it is the little things that matter the most."

Katherine wakes up early, having tossed and turned all night. Usually when she has a restless night, she can always pinpoint it to something that is going on, especially at work. Today she is not really sure what caused her to lose sleep, except that everything that happened with Paul is definitely foremost in her mind. Should she have handled the whole thing differently?

She makes herself a cup of coffee and heads to the den to sit by the fire. "I need to get out today and get a few groceries. They are predicting snow next week and I need to be a little prepared." She thinks. "Maybe I should do that first, then get Bart and if the weather is nice enough, I can take him to the dog park one last time before it gets too cold. He would love that. Then when we return, I can put away all the Christmas decorations." Her plans made for the day, she rises and heads to her bedroom to get dressed.

Bart is lying in the seat next to Katherine, having worn himself out at the dog park. Katherine took special care to make sure he got plenty of exercise. They played catch with the ball until he got tired and refused to bring the ball back, then they just walked around the park, probably about a couple of miles. Though the air was a little brisk, they both enjoyed the day at the park. Katherine pulls into her drive, noticing the car parked on the road between her house and the Courtneys. "They must have more holiday company." She thinks. "I am so glad I picked up Bart this morning." After getting out of the car, Katherine reaches in the back to retrieve Bart's leash. Usually she just leaves him off leash when they return from the park, but out of the corner of her eye she notices Beth and a man coming from the Courtney's front door. Wanting to get Bart into the house without him running over to see Beth, she is hardly paying any attention to Beth or the man. "There you are." She hears Beth saying and as she turns to answer, she realizes that it is Paul with Beth and they both are heading straight for her.

"We are just returning from the dog park. I thought I would take Bart one last time before it gets too cold." Katherine says.

"I wish I had gotten here earlier, I would have loved to go with you and Bart." Paul says.

"Paul was worried when he got here and your car was gone, so he came over to see if we still had Bart." Beth is saying, but all Katherine can see are those gorgeous brown eyes looking at her with such love and admiration.

Seeing that Paul and Katherine can't take their eyes off the other, Beth says "Well, I am sure you two have a lot to talk about. I will check up on you and Bart in a day or two, or sooner if we get that snow they are predicting." Then she turns and heads back toward her house.

"Katie, I have missed you so much. Beth is right, I was worried when I got here and your car was gone. I was afraid that maybe something happened with your flight and you hadn't made it home yet."

"Let's go inside. I will make us something to warm us up and we can talk."

"Yes, Katie, I have so much to explain and so many things I want to share with you." Paul says.

After closing the door, Paul grabs Katherine's hand and pulls her into his arms. Holding her close, feeling her chest rise and fall with every breath, Paul knows that there is nowhere else he wants to be.

Paul leans back, holding Katherine at arm's length. As she lifts her head and gazes into his eyes, he says, "I need to tell you my decision." Her heart beating wildly, afraid of hearing the words, she just nods and smiles weakly.

"Watching you walk away in San Francisco was the hardest thing I have ever endured. I never want to feel that pain again. You are all I want Katherine. I am accepting the job offer here and I hope that starting with this moment we will have one more day, each and every day of for the rest of our lives."

As Paul takes her into his arms again, kissing the top of her head and holding her as close as he can he hears her whisper, "Yes, one more day."

