Clothing Comdex And Confusion 3 - New Beginnings Old Endings free porn video

Clothing Comdex and Confusion ? New Beginnings Old Endings Copyright 2004 Beth Williams Sunday, December 9, 2001 I awoke in a hospital bed. There was an IV drip started in my right arm, and I could hear the incessant beep of a heart monitor. The lights were low, and Jeeves was setting in one corner of the room. When he saw I was awake, he left the room. Linda sat next to me, holding my left hand. I felt calm, tranquil, and slightly light headed. "I've been sedated haven't I?" I asked Linda. She nodded her head, "yes, you scared the hell out of everyone." "How long have I been asleep?" "Would you believe 32 hours?" Linda asked, worry clear in her voice. "Oh honey, I'm so sorry," she said, tears streaming from her red swollen eyes. "I thought bringing everything out into the open would ease the tension ? not make it worse." Not so strangely, considering the sedation, I really didn't feel anything at the moment. "What's going to happen now," I asked. "I don't really know. Hal had one of Cendar's doctors come to the estate. This suite is like an ICU. My guess is Jeeves went to alert him you're awake." The door opened, and Jeeves entered with who I assumed was my doctor. Through the open door, I could see Hal. He looked terrible. "Good afternoon Kate, I'm Dr. Tom Richards, I work for Cendar. Mr. Stevens assigned me to your case. How are you feeling?" "Tired, exhausted really, I suppose part of that is the drugs I've been given?" He nodded. "Why was I out so long?" I asked. "Well, it's not often I've had a patient with hysterics pass out. And, I've never treated a transgendered individual before." "What!" I looked wildly at Linda, and could hear the heart monitor's beeping increase in speed. "Shush Hon; we had to tell Jeeves and the Doctor when they decided to cath you. They were more than a little surprised. Jeeves had strong words with Hal about that one, let me tell you." "Mrs. Stevens, please, we only want you healthy and whole," Jeeves assured me. "I was royally pissed at Hal for his deception, but I know just how much you've already done for him, and the company. Please, I know how to be discreet, don't worry about my knowing." Jeeves startled me. First, he had never spoken a single vulgar word in my presence before. Nor had he ever criticized Hal before. I was struck by his sincere tone and manner ? he was being honest with me. In addition, for the first time since I had met him, he was not affecting a butler's subservience; I realized I didn't really know him. "Okay then Jeeves, I'm embarrassed to ask, but what is your first name?" He looked uncomfortable, "Andrew is my given name, and friends call me Andy." "Then let's be honest with each other Andy. I was born John Albert Williams, for many years I've spent occasional time as Beth, and when Hal encountered me at Comdex, he was certain he'd seen his dead wife Kate. Between Hal, and Linda I let myself be convinced to take Kate's place. I'm having a hard time with it. I feel like I'm living with a ghost. We decided to limit that information. I can see where you should have been told, but that is past. I suppose the question is what's happened to me?" "I was rather hoping you'd be able to tell us," Dr. Tom replied. "There's a tremendous hormonal imbalance in your blood right now. Also, your liver functions are way outside normal parameters. That combined with the stress you've apparently been under combined to trigger a panic attack. Have you been taking any Hormones?" "Yes, but only the one's prescribed for me." "Where are they?" he asked. "In my medicine cabinet upstairs," I answered. Jeeves left the room and returned a few minutes later. He handed the medicine bottles to the doctor. "Have you been taking all of these?" he asked. I answered that I was taking them just as prescribed, and according to the labels on the bottles. He pulled out the clinic's PDR and began reading the physician information for each of the drugs. "Well, I think someone has made a mistake here. You're receiving about twice the estrogen that you should be, and lacking testicles, the anti-androgens are way over the necessary dose. Either the pharmacy or the doctor made a mistake. How long have you been taking them?" I told him I'd been taking them since the 29th, and that Dr. Kline had given an intramuscular injection that day as well. "Well, it may not be actionable, or mal-practice in the strictest sense of the word, but you are certainly taking far too high a dose of these drugs, and I want to set an appointment up for you with an endocrinologist who specializes in gender dysphoria. I think if you moderate their use, you'll find your emotions level out also." "In the meantime, I want you to go back to sleep. I'm going to continue to monitor your condition until I can get someone competent out to the estate on Monday." With that, he went to the clinic office, leaving me with Linda and Andy. A few minutes later, he returned and injected something into the drug lock of my IV. "Nightie, night," he said, returning to the office. Things got all cottony, and then things got blurry. My last memory was Hal walking in, eyes red, looking down on me in bed. I fell into a deep and thankfully dreamless sleep. Monday, December 10, 2001 When I awoke, Linda was sitting in the chair next to me, lightly snoring. A nurse I didn't know was keeping watch. As I struggled to sit up, the nurse came over, "hi Mrs. Stevens, my name is Wendy. Please let me help you sit up," she said and raised the end of the bed for me. Linda heard the whine of the motor, and slowly began to stir. I asked for something to drink, and Wendy gave me orange juice. She said the doctor had okayed any breakfast I up to. I asked for bacon and eggs, and Wendy called it into the kitchen. Dr. Tom entered, and I asked what time it was, and was only moderately surprised to find it was a little after 10:00 in the morning. "Dr. Norma Ledbetter, and Dr. Saul Bellows will be out to see you this afternoon," he informed me. "Dr. Ledbetter is an endocrinologist and Dr. Bellows is a psychiatrist, both have extensive experience with transgender patients. They've also worked together for several years. Assuming everything goes as I expect, you can plan on resuming your regular routine this evening." I laughed derisively, "what routine? Since this began everything seems to be spinning out of my control. No one seems to understand that crappy little fact," I snarled. "Well I can see the sedatives have worn off," he remarked dryly. He proceeded to listen to my heart and lungs; then did the other indignities physicians do when they examine you, and finally pronounced that I was indeed among the living. "One of the things we found in your blood work up was a slight infection. It may have also contributed to your current condition." He wheeled an equipment cart over, and I saw it was one of Cendar's prototype diagnostic machines. He attached the various leads to my body, placed my arm in the blood pressure cuff and let the machine do its own examination. It rather gently pricked the tip of my little finger, and collected a minute blood sample that it then whisked into the built in analyzer. In less than five minutes, the computer delivered a diagnosis and recommendations. Dr. Tom handed the printout to me. It was an amazing experience. Not the least of which was the output was understandable. The language was in straight forward English ? not medical gobbledygook. The computer essentially said I was healthy and what was I doing laying around ? and by the way ? I needed more exercise. "Impudent piece of junk," I snapped. "What does it know about exercise?" Dr. Tom laughed, the door opened and Vikki brought in my breakfast. "Are you alright Mrs. Stevens?" she asked with obvious concern. I bit off a sharp retort, and with great effort smiled, "So the doctor tells me, thank you for asking. Mmmm... that smells wonderful." Vikki smiled, and laid the tray down on the bed table. Linda decided to go shower while she had a chance, and everyone left me mercifully alone to enjoy my breakfast. I turned on the TV and watched I Love Lucy reruns while eating. As I finished (which gave me a good appreciation of the surveillance capabilities of the medical suite), Dr. Tom entered. "I'd like to remove the IV and catheter and give you a chance to get clean before your guests arrive." I quickly agreed ? any reason to get out of here sounded good to me. The doctor removed the IV first. I noticed a bit of bruising around the puncture site. Dr. Tom asked Wendy to go get slippers and a robe for me. Then he asked that I lay back, lowered the bed, and removed the catheter. "I thought sending Wendy out would ease your mind a bit. Your surgery is amazing; if I hadn't needed to insert the catheter I doubt I'd ever have noticed anything different about your genitals ? short of doing an gynecological exam" Pulling my nightgown down, he helped me sit up. Wendy returned, and held the robe out to me. She then led me across the hall to the showers ? I was clearly still a patient. The hot water coursing down my body did much to ease the tension I was feeling. Linda brought me clean clothes. By the time I was finished, I felt almost normal. Unfortunately I no longer knew exactly what normal was. "Okay folks, I'm going upstairs till the other doctors arrive." Dr. Tom looked like he wanted to object, but my attitude suggested it would not be wise. I took the elevator to the first floor, and wandered out to the atrium. The flowers, the sunlight, and the warmth helped soothe my jangled nerves. Linda sat with me. I didn't feel much like talking ? I didn't really trust myself to be coherent. I just sat and enjoyed her closeness. Noontime Vikki pushed out a tea cart, loaded with tea and finger foods. Linda and I nibbled in silence. "How are the kids doing?" I finally asked. "Once they realized you were okay, they were okay. Hal has been spoiling them. He wouldn't leave you, so he had a couple of the security officers take Tim to the range. He also arranged horseback riding for Lisa. By the way, "your" horse is a monster! Have you seen it yet?" I nodded. "Sunday, when it became clear you wouldn't waken before noon, he took Tim and Lisa to church while I sat with you." "You are kidding, right? It was all I could do to get Hal into church at all!" "Hon, it was his idea. He looked really rocky, but they went to church, he wouldn't even drive. Maybe I shouldn't tell you, but more than once I heard him whisper, 'Please God, don't let me loose her again.'" "Oh my God, what am I going to do? It's her ghost I can't take. I might survive if Hal would let me. But if he doesn't figure out that I am not truly Kate, then neither Kate nor Beth will survive," I began to quietly cry. Linda held me. "Will John survive?" she asked tremblingly. "I don't know," I whispered. -------------- I chose to meet the Drs. In the second floor guest office. It was quiet, had overstuffed chairs, and had a warm homey feeling. Moreover, it had not the slightest hint of a doctor's office. Norma Ledbetter arrived first. She was a petite redhead with startlingly green eyes. I guessed her age to be fifty something. When she smiled her entire face lit up and the smile truly seemed to stretch from ear to ear. "Good afternoon Mrs. Stevens, it's nice to meet you, please call me Norma," she said, reaching out to shake my hand. "Hi Norma, please have a seat." Norma, Linda and I sat down; Vikki brought in a coffee and tea service then quietly left the office. Linda sat close to me on the couch. Norma began "I've spent the last hour with Dr. Richards reviewing your case. I must say it is a bit unconventional. I understand you are having trouble with your hormone dosages. How long have you been in treatment for your gender identity issues?" "Since the middle of November," I answered. "What?" "Well, my breasts were done on the 19th; the orchiectomy and vaginoplasty were on the 20th. The doctor started me on estrogen, and the other hormones on the 29th. So, I suppose it's more accurate to say the end of November." "Let me get this straight, you've only been in treatment for less than a month? That's outrageous! How long had you been in treatment by a psychologist or psychiatrist?" "I haven't been, Linda and I talked about it, but I haven't seen anyone yet." "Then how in the world did anyone begin reassignment surgeries and hormones? God, no wonder you are so screwed up. This is the reason the Standards of Care were developed." "Norma, whoa, slow down. Please start at the beginning, assume I'm totally ignorant ? because I'm beginning to think I am." We were interrupted by the arrival of Drs. Bellows and Richards. Dr. Bellows was a 50 something black man with a complexion the color well oiled mahogany. Large in every direction, his voice was low, melodious and delightful to listen to. It reminded me of Paul Robeson in the classic 'Old Man River' from the musical 'Showboat.' "So this is the patient? It's a pleasure to meet you, please call me Saul" he said taking my hand in both of his. Norma turned to Tom and Saul, "it seems we have a problem greater than you originally called us for Tom. Our patient has never heard of the Standards of Care, nor has she been under any formal transition plan, nor has she been under the care of a mental health professional." "Norma, I'd asked a minute ago, could you explain what you are talking about?" I asked, growing somewhat frustrated. "Sorry. First of all, what name would you prefer we use?" I suppose I should have been expecting the question. It really exposed my own terrors and fears; and naturally the tears began to flow again. "I'm sorry; I suppose that's part of my problem right now. For all of my adult life I've been John Williams. For the last 20 years or so I've spent at least a couple of weeks a year as Beth Williams. A month or so ago, I was attending Comdex ? a computer trade show ? as Beth. My path crossed that of Hal Stevens. He took one look at me and ran away. I am, in appearance, in the way I speak, and by all accounts the way I think a virtual twin to his wife Kate. Kate died in the 9/11 attacks, though her body was never recovered. After he got over the shock of seeing me, Hal searched Las Vegas until he found me. Hal had the harebrained idea that I could step into her shoes. He and, I'm sorry to say, Linda here convinced me to do just that. The breast implants, and genital modifications were just the means to insure I wouldn't be discovered. Dr. Kline prescribed the hormones to help my breasts become more realistic. The trouble is Hal can't separate me from his dead wife, and I can't live with her ghost." I began to sob quietly. Linda put her arm around my shoulders and pulled me close while handing me a tissue. "Well, that is quite a story," Saul commented, "but it remains a question, what should we call you?" "Right now?" I sniffled, "I'm more Kate than anyone else." "Then Kate it is," Saul said smiling in a warm and reassuring way. "Norma, you've seen her blood work?" "It is so screwed up I'm surprised she can even function. It's almost as though she were going through puberty and menopause at the same time. It's going to take some time to sort it out. Are you going to take her case then Saul?" "I really don't see much choice. With the body changes, the hormones, and the fact that she is existing as a woman ? and more importantly being accepted as a woman ? she definitely needs someone to manage her case. And, modesty aside, you and I are among the best in the area. And that doesn't even address the need to keep this quiet and away from the press." "Do I have any choice in this?" I asked. With a gentle laugh Saul answered "not really. Well, yes you do, but I don't think you'd like the alternatives. By the reports if you're not actually suicidal then you are damn close to harming yourself. Close enough that if you aren't under competent care I would be ethically bound to seek a commitment to a state hospital for you. And leaving aside that I'm a stockholder with a vested interest in Cendar, Hal would not allow that. It would get very ugly, very public, and very unpleasant. Besides, will it be so difficult working with me?" he asked, again with his warm smile. "I see what you mean. So, where do we go from here?" Norma began, "first, we need to get your hormones balanced, then begin moving towards complying with the Harry Benjamin Standards of Care. Those are a series of guidelines for managing gender dysphoria and sexual reassignment. Frankly, you should not be in the position you find yourself." "There are very specific recommendations," Saul continued, "designed to ensure the patient has the best possible chance to succeed in their desired gender. You, or rather Hal, simply threw money at your body, and you are experiencing the results." "Do you really think this will work? I'm so confused." I turned to Linda, "Hon, what do you think? What should I do?" My heart began to race at the implications. Linda softly smiled, held my hand, and whispered "I love you. Whatever it takes I'll be there for you." Looking from face to face, I realized I wasn't alone. "I guess I really have no choice. What do we do next?" Saul clapped his hands. "There, see! You can face this. I promise we'll do everything to help you make good and appropriate choices. First thing is to get you stabilized. Norma will see to that. I'm not sure how, but I know she will get you balanced. Me? I'll work on unkinking your brain, and help you see where you want to go. And, I do believe Hal Stevens and I are going to be spending nearly as much time together as you and I will. He has some growing up to do, and little time to do it!" "Saul, I think I'm going to put her on a trans-dermal patch with a low dosage of estrogen for a week or two, then depending on her blood work, change her over to an oral; and, no more of the androgen blockers." "Okay, I'll leave that with you. Tom you will be the physician of record. I expect you to arrange daily blood draws. Can you make it out here every day?" "No problems, the owner of my company will see to it," he said dryly, referring to Hal. "Excuse me, but is there any reason not to be seen at the company offices?" I asked. "No, that works as well. But what I want is to be certain you are seen every day. And, I want blood samples daily, with the results going to Norma and myself. And, I think I want you on Prozac for the foreseeable future ? at least until we sort some of the issues out. Now the important thing for you to remember that Norma and I are very good at what we do, and we will help you through this. You and I will be meeting at least once a week for the next month or two." I agreed, and Drs. Norma, Tom and Saul allowed me to escape. I asked Linda "where are the kids?" "Hal took them to the mall. They wanted to do some Christmas shopping. Honey, he's been fantastic with the kids. He knows he's part of the problem and he truly wants to help." "What about Annie?" "She's frantic with worry. She went to the mall with Hal and the kids. She and Lisa are getting along great. Oh, and by the way there will be additional guests at dinner." "What do you mean?" "Well, the Moonie's arrived yesterday, you know about Simon, and Janie and Hiram arrived this morning. They're all settled in and having a good time," Linda informed me. "So, everyone but me is doing great," I snapped. "Hon, everyone is concerned for you. We all care and are scared for you." I went to my room and lay down for a nap. It was about 5:00 when Linda came in to waken me. "Rise and shine sleepyhead," she said while gently rubbing my back. I rose, showered and dressed for dinner. When I finally went downstairs to the dining room the kids were there, Lisa came over and gave me a hug. "Are you alright Dad?" she whispered in my ear. "I don't know, I think so," I replied. "The doctors say everything will be okay in a few weeks time." Lisa sat close to me on one side, Linda on the other at the dinner table. Everyone else came in about then. We just about filled the table with my family and the guests. Hal sat opposite me. "You're looking well Kate," he said. I didn't know what to say, I felt my heart begin to pound. Linda reached over and took my hand in hers. Vikki served dinner. Hal looked sheepishly at me and shook me to the core when he asked Tim to say grace. His heartfelt "amen" at the end was clearly sincere. To say I was distracted would be an understatement ? I can't even tell you what we ate that evening. I do know that 14 people around a table make an incredible amount of noise ? the kids getting to know each other, the adults making polite conversation ? except for me. I sat there like the skeleton at the feast; somehow unable to make a real emotional connection with anyone or anything. I suppose it was a reaction to the medications, all I know is I felt numb. After dinner, we went up to the movie room and watched an advanced release of the Lord of the Rings ? Fellowship of the Ring. How Hal got it, I have no idea ? but I truly enjoyed it. I forgot myself for nearly three hours. After the movie, everyone left for their rooms, while Linda and I headed to her room. Hal stopped us in the hall. "Kate, please take the master suite. I've had Jeeves move some of my things to one of the extra bedrooms. You and Linda should have the larger space." I wanted to be angry; I wanted to shout at him. I simply did not have the energy. I let Linda lead me to the room. We changed and slipped into bed. I took my meds, including a sleep med. When Linda pulled me into a hug I melted into her arms and quietly sobbed myself to sleep. Tuesday, December 11, 2001 Linda gently shook me awake at 6:30, "Come on Hon, time to face the world. You need to start living again." I just groaned. Linda pulled me out of bed and pushed me into the shower; where she joined me, washing my hair and just generally pampering me. Afterwards, I did my makeup, and dressed in a simple black suit with a pale pink silk blouse. Linda handed me the meds the Doctors had determined I needed ? a healthy dose of anti-depressants. I asked Linda about the kids, and she said they were still asleep ? their bodies were still on West Coast time ? and for them it was still the middle of the night. Downstairs, Vikki had my usual breakfast ready. I enjoyed sitting in the atrium eating my oatmeal; the normalcy somehow comforting. All too soon, Andy was there to drive me to the office ? Hal had left for the office an hour earlier. I was grateful to have a driver, it had snowed, and besides being cold, the roads were icy and treacherous. The office was a madhouse. Janie, Hiram, Jack Mooney, and Simon were all waiting for me. Their concern was evident. All they really knew was I had gotten sick on Saturday, and hadn't been well enough to come to work. I had Annie escort them to HR for orientation and all the other processing that goes along with a new job. Later Annie escorted Janie, Hiram and Simon down to the computer center. I was certain Simon would quickly take charge; I was also afraid that Simon would take charge. I needed to keep in mind that Simon was a two edged sword. His excellent skills were the mirror image of his acerbic personality. I resolved to check in later in the day to see how he was progressing. Jack I took over to the medical center. I introduced him to the team he would be working with. Jack was an expert systems guru. He would be tasked with the final quality assurance testing for the software underlying the diagnostic equipment. Jack made himself at home, and I returned to my office. On my desk was a large bouquet of roses. Attached was a note: "I hope these brighten your day, see you at lunch, lots of love ? Hal." Lunch with Hal I thought I could handle; we would have to redefine our relationship. It was strange. The feeling of Kate's presence was overwhelming. But, today it was somehow comforting. Oddly I felt compelled to explore the private side of my dead "twin." I picked up the black framed picture of Kate and her twin daughters. The little girls looked remarkably like Lisa in preschool. I called Annie and asked if she could come into my office. When she arrived, I asked her to join me on the sofa. "Annie, can I ask some questions about Kate? ? they may be painful, but I really need to know." Annie looked down at the picture in my lap and gave a deep sigh. "I should have seen this coming. What would you like to know?" "Can you tell me about my twin's babies?" "What do you mean your 'twin'?" she asked. "Oh, is that how you're trying to cope?" "I think that's how I have to deal with things for right now. The doctors are going to keep me pretty well whacked until I start dealing with things better. Soooo... I thought it might help to see Kate as my twin ? heaven knows we seem to be identical." "Okay then, what would you like to know?" "Can you tell me about the babies? Everything I mean. I realized just a little while ago that they would be only a year younger than Tim." "I was fifteen when my mom and the twins died." Annie began to cry softly. "They were typical, bubbly toddlers. I adored them. Becky and Tracy were like little sisters to me. I used to help mom after school with them. They loved playing dress-up. Even more, they loved to climb up in my lap and cuddle. They always wanted to play and laugh and sing. Most days they would get up from their nap about the time I got home from school. The first thing we'd do is watch Sesame Street. Then they almost always wanted to play "school." Really, they just wanted to be with me ? and truthfully ? I loved being with them. The day of the accident, my mom was returning from a "Gymboree" play session in Burlington. It was the first big snow of the season, and a fuel truck lost control, crossed the median on 1A and slammed into her car. My mom, Becky and Tracey died almost instantly in the accident. After they put the fire out, there were only charred, unrecognizable remains. The three of them shared a casket." "It was Kate that came to my school, and told me the news. I shouted and screamed she was lying; Kate just held me while I cried my eyes out. I remember it vividly; she put me first, ahead of her own pain. I moved into Steven's Hall that evening, and Kate, Hal, and I began to put our lives back together. Soon after the funeral they legally became my foster parents." Annie seemed to run out of steam, so I reached over, and pulled her close. We sat there for I don't know how long; hugging, cuddling, bonding, and helping each other come to grips with the loss of Kate. "Annie, you want me to love you?" I asked, brushing her auburn hair away from her face. Annie nodded, "but I can't survive and be your lover. Will you let me be your foster, foster mother?" She looked me in the eyes, whispered "yes," and began to sob. "Honey, it's not right that you've had to lose your mother twice. I'll help, and I'll love you, but, you have to help me too." "I know Kate, I'll try." "You'll have to do better than try. Otherwise you'll lose me also. But then so would Linda, my kids, and Hal. It's been really close for me this last weekend. I've thought of ending it all. I still don't know if I'll make it. But I'm going to try, for my wife, my children, you, and Hal." By this time, I'd joined Annie in dripping tears. We sat there, and I sensed a change in our relationship. I hoped what I felt was true. The phone rang, and I gently unwrapped myself from Annie and went to answer it. "Yes?" I said. "Mrs. Stevens, Dr. Richards is here," the receptionist told me. "Damn, okay, please send him in." "Annie, my doctor is here for my daily checkup. Will you be alright?" Annie wiped her eyes, and headed for her office. "Yes, I think I will. I still can't get over how much like her you truly are. Thanks, mom," she said as she closed the door. 'Mom? Well,' I thought, 'maybe Annie and I will be all right.' Dr. Tom came in, and proceeded to poke, prod and prick my poor defenseless body. "Dr. Ledbetter sent over a time release estrogen patch. We need to place it on your abdomen or hip," he said. I removed my skirt, and pulled down my slip and underwear, and Dr. Tom placed the patch on the left side of my abdomen. After putting my clothes back on, we sat down and chatted. "Do you know how long it will take before I'm anywhere near normal?" I asked. "Not really, I'm just a glorified messenger. I'm actually kind of fascinated by all of this. I've always been a diagnostician, and never really had the opportunity to observe such a radical change in a person's endocrinology." "Great, so I'm just a guinea pig to you!" I snapped back. Tom didn't rise to the bait. Instead he chuckled, "and such a pretty little piggy!" For a moment time stopped. Tom realized he'd just potentially pissed off his employer. I confess I enjoyed the look on his face. Then the absurdity of it all hit me, and I began to giggle at him. "I suppose I deserve that, but can you at least tell me how long I'm going to be so bitchy?" I could tell Tom was struggling to keep a straight face. "I am not EVEN going to go there," he said. "First a little piggy, now a bitch... Can we PLEASE not use animal references?" Ouch. My laughter changed to deep belly laughs, and I simply could not stop. Annie opened the door, "is everything all right?" she asked. "Yep, just this lunatic doctor is trying to kill me with what he uses for a sense of humor!" "Uh, mom? I don't think he's the one seeing the shrink." And she began to laugh. I just groaned. They say that laughter is the best medicine. For the first time in my life I believed it to be true. The laughter cleared away many of my doubts, leaving me delightfully light hearted. Dr. Tom left, promising to return the next day. Annie went back to her office, and I made an attempt at reading the pr?cis of the presentation for the FDA. I was scheduled to meet with a "medical devices" committee in January to discuss the continuing testing of the diagnostic modules Cendar was developing. Just before noon, there was a gentle knocking on the door connecting my office to Hal and my apartment. "Come in," I called out. The door opened and there was Hal. He seemed unsure of himself, and slowly walked in. "Hal, thank you for the roses they were lovely." "Hi Kate," he said. With a pleading look in his eyes he asked; "Can I take you to lunch?" "I think I'd like that very much," I said grabbing my coat. "What did you have in mind?" I asked as we left the building. "I thought maybe seafood today? It's just a short drive to Legal Seafoods," he said, escorting me out to the parking lot and opening the passenger door to his Hummer. "Hmmm..., I've heard a lot about Legal Seafoods, but I've never been there, sure, why not?" I said with a smile. Hal closed my door and walked around to the driver's side. "I've been so worried about you honey," he said as we left the parking lot. "I don't know how to help you; I don't even know how to not make it worse." He pulled out onto route 3 accelerating smoothly onto the highway. "I'm still having trouble coping with who you are. Sometimes I forget about Beth ? much less John ? entirely. Dr. Bellows has royally reamed me about this, and will continue to do so. But I see you, and just want to protect and love you." I just sat there, letting him talk. Soon we passed by the Sun Microsystems campus, and pulled off the highway to the Burlington Mall. After parking, Hal opened my door and helped me out of the Hummer. Sighing, I took his arm and let him lead me into the restaurant. Despite everything, it was softly comforting to have someone so solicitous and caring. That Hal wanted to protect me was clearly evident. We had to wait nearly twenty minutes for a table, and so we sat there on a bench, hand in hand while Hal tried to make small talk. "I'm so glad your kids were able to come out for the holidays. I don't think I'd have made it through the weekend without them. You know, I think Tim did real well on the range, and Lisa has the right instincts to be a great rider. I think she fell in love with Velvet." "Who's velvet," I asked. Hal's eyes gave a blink or two. "Damn, I did it again. Velvet is Kate's horse ? your horse. It was a bit comical seeing Lisa on Velvet. That horse made her look tiny. Anyway, she did very well. You know both of those kids are something else. You and Linda have done a fantastic job with them." That struck a nerve. I found myself tearing up at the thought of my kids ? and how they would react if I did hurt myself. Sometimes love is like a fairy tale; everything is perfect, and no one ever gets hurt. But, sometimes love is like a straightjacket; painful and confining your possible choices. An existence where you put up with the intolerable to keep those you love from being hurt. As painful as things were, I knew I had no choice. Ending my life was not an option. The pain it would inflict on Tim and Lisa ? much more than even Linda ? was something I would move heaven and hell to avoid. Hal looked at me in concern, "what did I do this time?" he asked. "I thought the kids would be a happy thought." "Hal, for being so smart, you are a total idiot. Yes, my kids are a happy thought, but did you ever think about what I am going through? I wanted to end my life on Saturday. I could have, would have then... but I can't now. I thought about my options, and I refuse to do that to my children ? no matter how badly you hurt me." I turned away and fumbled in my purse for a tissue. As I wiped at my eyes, I felt Hal draw closer, then, a gentle touch on the shoulder. I flinched, but did not pull away. "Kate, I am sorry. I would do anything to take away the pain. I want you to be happy." I looked in his eyes and could not help but sense his love and his pain for me. Timidly he turned me towards him. I began to weep quietly, and allowed him to pull me into a hug. I sobbed into his shoulder as I fought to control my emotions. Yes, I knew, intellectually, that much of the emotional roller coaster was the result of the hormones. Knowing that made absolutely no difference at all to how I was feeling. Hal made little shushing sounds, holding me tight, patting my back, and kissing my hair. It was nice; eventually I calmed down and dried my eyes. Thank goodness the mascara was water proof. The hostess informed us a table was ready, Hal asked if we could instead have a booth ? preferably private. The Hostess told him it would take a few additional minutes before a booth would be ready. "Kate, would it help if you and Linda went away for a week or so? Just the two of you? I'm sure Annie and I can keep an eye on the kids. Things have happened awfully fast. Maybe a chance to slow down and catch your breath would help?" "I don't know Hal, the doctor's want to monitor me. I really don't know what I want." "Well, why don't you talk it over with Linda after lunch? I'm sure something can be worked out, even if it means having Tom travel with you." I had never thought of that. It seemed incredible that one person could command such resources as to be able to afford what Hal took for granted. As I mulled over this latest thought, the hostess informed us a booth was ready. I ordered the scrod with a baked potato, while Hal had the wild Alaskan salmon. "Where do you think Linda and I could go?" I asked. "Someplace warm?" he suggested. I smiled. Hal knew the only thing I really didn't like about New England so far was the cold. We spent the rest of lunch chatting. After the earlier emotional outburst, I asked what else he'd done with Tim and Lisa. Hal was wary; he made it clear he did not want to upset me again. With gentle coaxing he described the shopping trip to the mall, and taking the kids to church on Sunday. I was surprised by the terms he used for church. It was clear my collapse Saturday had deeply affected him. Even more surprising was apparent need for a spiritual relationship. He wouldn't say much of the Mall trip, only indicating that the kids had a ball shopping for Linda and me. The only real detail was Lisa's dilemma on whether to shop for me as John, Beth, or Kate. Apparently she was quite comical in her confusion ? though Hal refused to tell me who she eventually bought for. After lunch, Hal wanted to drive back to the office, but I persuaded him to walk with me to the mall. Amongst the Christmas decorations, it was clear some of the stores were already offering Spring fashions. I wandered into the Banana Republic looking at the casual clothes, lamenting the failure of designers to design larger sized clothes. I found a floppy straw hat with a wide ribbon accent that I decided to buy. Rather I chose it and tried to pay for it... Hal beat me to the punch. I should have been frightened by the gleam in his eye, but was still loggy from the various drugs. After looking around for about an hour, I was persuaded to return to the office. Annie had a new report for me to read through, and that occupied my time for most of the afternoon. About 4:00 Annie informed me I had a visitor. Dr. Saul Bellows beamed his broad smile at me as he entered the office. "Hi Saul, to what do I owe this visit?" I asked. "Well, Hal asked me to check in with you, it seems he has this idea of you and Linda taking a vacation on short notice." 'Damn that devious gleam in his eye,' I thought to myself as I remembered his behavior at the mall. "Annie!" I yelled, "Will you get that devious bastard of a husband of mine in here?" I was beginning to do a slow burn. I smiled, without a trace of humor or pleasure at Dr. Bellows, "why don't you have a seat while we wait for Hal," I asked in my sweetest, most catty voice. Dr. Bellows looked positively ashen, a trick with his color skin. "Uh, I take it you didn't know?" he managed to stammer. "No, I most assuredly did NOT know, and Hal is doing his domineering, 'I'm in charge' alpha male dominance thing again." "Well, I think I'd rather see the anger than the sullen despair of yesterday," he said. "Think before he gets here. Are you sure you want to fight over this?" "Damn straight I do. This is one of the things he does that absolutely makes me feel helpless and of no importance. It makes me feel small." At that, Hal entered the room. "What the bloody hell do you think you're doing?" I screamed. "You miserable excuse for a human being; what makes you think you have the right to make arrangements behind my back? Do you remember the last time? I nearly walked out on you. Is that what you're trying to do? Just say the word. I've about had it with everyone telling me what to do and who to be." "Kate, please, may I get a word in?" Hal asked. "Go ahead, let's see how much deeper you can dig yourself into a hole." I slammed back in my chair, arms crossed, fuming visibly. "Okay, first, I've done nothing yet. All I've done is ask some questions. You and I talked about it at lunch. So, I asked Dr. Bellows what he thought and asked him to stop by. And I did ask Linda for her opinion, but honest, I haven't made any arrangements yet, except that I asked my travel agent what cruises were available, since you wanted someplace warm and all she did was get the pricing; oh, and I did ask Annie about a couple of gowns for the formal night, 'cause you can always use them anyway. I talked with Tom about accompanying you and what equipment he should pack and made sure everything could be packed and ready by tomorrow morning. The kids thought it would be fantastic for you both, oh, I also did ask our pilots to be sure the jet was serviced and ready should anything be decided, and they said it would be fully stocked and fueled by 8:00 am in the morning, and if you were planning a cruise this time of year it would probably be from Ft. Lauderdale, and that's only 4 hours flight time, but really, I didn't make any real plans." The look on his face was priceless, shock, terror, and fear all played across his face. Here was one of the richest most powerful men in America reduced to babbling. Finally, a look of abject pleading as his mouth kept running on. I was suddenly reminded of a little boy caught with his hands in the cookie jar, trying to explain his was out of being caught red handed. He kept going on about the details he'd researched and put into place "just in case" Linda and I wanted to go. Never, ever did he concede my accusation, while frantically telling me every little detail. I couldn't help it, when Dr. Bellows began to chuckle I lost it and began to giggle. Finally, it got through to him that we were laughing at him. He sort of ran out of gas and stood there with a hurt look on his face. "Okay Hal, relax; but do you hear what I'm trying to say to you? If I am going to survive, you are going to have to stop this. Maybe once in a while it will be okay to "surprise" me. But I am me, not your original Kate. This is one of the things I've been trying to get across to you. I can't exist if you do not give me the space to be me ? and respect that." "Yes dear, I hear you." "May I interrupt?" Dr. Bellows said. "Hal, this is one of the things I've been trying to get you to understand. Your fixation on the original Kate is poisoning your relationship with this lovely and delightful woman. If you truly care, you're going to have to get that through your mind." "So Saul, what do you think, can I take a vacation?" I asked smiling sweetly him. He laughed deeply. "I think it safe to say you could do with a break from Massachusetts. So, are you thinking of going somewhere?" "Hal, where are Linda and I going?" Hal blinked, "huh?" "I never said I didn't want to go, I simply said I wouldn't allow you to control me." "Well, there's a Princess Cruise Line ship, the Grand Princess, leaving Ft. Lauderdale for the Western Caribbean. I thought maybe you'd like to stay in Ft. Lauderdale for a couple of days, then take the ship and cruise through Thursday, then fly back for party on Friday the 21st. You'd only miss one sea day that way." "What did Linda say?" "She thought it would be good to get you away from me," he admitted. I confess I chuckled at that. Hal just looked a little more hurt. I got up from my desk and walked over to him, and gave him a hug. "I'm not ready to give up on you," I whispered in his ear. "This has not been easy for me." I turned to him and gave him a kiss, wrapping my arms around his neck. "So," I said breaking away, "when do we leave?" "In the morning if you wish." "Where will we be staying from till the cruise?" Hal squirmed a bit more, "well, I thought the Mandarin Oriental Miami; it's the best in town." I laughed. "Okay, since LINDA wants to; I guess I should get packed, or did you have THAT done too?" "Damn, you're good... I had Annie call out to Gowns R Us for some evening gowns, but honest, that's all!" Well Dr. Bellows, since you've certified that I'm certifiable, I guess I'll go. Do you need anymore time today? It seems I've a lot of packing to do." "No, I guess I'll be on my way, though I must admit this was an unexpectedly productive session. You should probably plan on seeing Dr. Ledbetter this evening, since I think Hal, just might, perhaps have arranged that," he chuckled as he left the room. I just glared again at Hal. "Annie," I called out. She timidly walked in, and looked around. "I don't see any blood," she quipped. I laughed, "No, I decided to let him live, intact, for now. It looks like Linda and I are going on vacation. Hal admitted, under torture, that he'd asked you to order some things, when will they be here?" "Actually, because they are three hours behind, I expect them to be in by 8:00 in the morning. I ordered two formal gowns for you and Linda. We can check the fit in the morning, if needed; we can have them altered and to you before the ship leaves. I think there are plenty of cruise clothes in the closets at the estate, so we should be able to outfit you pretty well, Linda can shop off the rack at one of the malls in Florida for anything extra that she needs." "Yeah, SHE can find clothes that fit at Banana Republic," I grumbled. "Okay then, shall we head on home?" I asked Hal and Annie. I rode home with Hal, in truth, he was trying, and that was important. I thought he might need a little time with me. I even held his hand, and we chatted about what he and the kids might do while Linda and I were gone. He didn't think it would be too hard to occupy them. They were still exploring their rooms and the estate. Hal said he'd arrange horse riding lessons for Lisa, and maybe driving lessons for Tim. After all, there were plenty of roads for him to practice on company property. Maybe he would arrange tennis lessons for both of them. In any case, they would stay busy. Once back at the estate, I called Linda and Lisa into my room. "What do you think I should take on the cruise," I asked. Lisa roller her eyes at me; "Wow, this is sooo weird; helping my dad, choose clothes for a cruise as a woman." I giggled, "Yeah, isn't it? So, what do you think? We sorted through the closet, selecting four casual tops, two pair of Capri's, two pair of shorts, my swimsuit, a couple of tee shirts, a couple of skirts, and a cute pair of shortalls, that with the two dresses should be more than enough. Of course, Lisa insisted that I try everything on. After my impromptu fashion show, we looked through what Linda had brought, and decided to do a little shopping in Florida. Sure enough, Dr. Ledbetter showed up just after 6:00. "I have to tell you," she said, "I'm not real keen on you being away for a week. Your blood work is starting to stabilize, but you're still critically imbalanced." Hal interrupted, "Norma, I'm sending Tom along with one of our prototype diagnostic units. He'll be monitoring her, and communicating with you daily." "Well, that's something anyway. Beth, can we go somewhere private so I can show you how to place your hormone patch?" Norma and I went up to my bedroom. After removing enough clothes, she showed me where to place the patch ? just below my navel and slightly to one side. "I want you to alternate sides. The patch should be changed every four days. It's waterproof and you should hardly know it's there. Understand?" I told here I thought I could probably remember her instructions, as I put my clothes back on. "Would you like to stay for dinner?" I asked her. Predictably, she declined. After leaving enough patches to last two weeks, she left. Dinner was fun ? for the first time in days I enjoyed the time around the dinner table. As usual the food was spectacular. Comfort food; spam, fried potatoes and green beans, yes I know I have weird tastes, but there you are. Tim was chattering about the observatory on the roof, and Lisa was all talking about our upcoming trip. With the kids talking to the Mooney kids, Simon, Hiram, and Janie all seemed totally befuddled at the "domestic tranquility" surrounding them. After dinner, I invited Simon into my office. It was time for a little chat. "Simon, I've not been at my best the past few days, but before I take off in the morning, I want to make one thing crystal clear to you. I've already had a report of you being heavy handed and abusive. This was not entirely unexpected knowing you as I do. You are in charge of IT operations but you will treat my people with respect. If you do not, Annie has specific instructions on how to rein you in. For instance, you may have noticed the room next to yours is vacant. Annie is empowered to fly to Florida and offer an employment package to your ex- wife with Cendar. She will not, however inform your ex that you currently work for Cendar. Instead, she will move your ex into Stevens Hall, into the room next to yours as a matter of fact. Moreover, the position she will be offered will be IT employee management liaison; in other words ombudsman for IT workers. "Can you just imagine how delightful that would be? But of course, you are going to be a good boy, aren't you? Of course you are. Oh, and that would just be the start of all sorts of fun things I can think of. But of course I'll never get to have that fun, will I? No, of course not. I'm glad we had this little chat, and do remember me while I'm away. Thank you for coming by Simon, and I'll see you when I get back. I managed to hear a whispered "Bloody Hell," as he let my office. Hal walked in as I was desperately trying not to laugh out loud. "What did you say to him? He looked as white as a sheet." "Oh, not much, just that if he screws up and bully's people I'll move his ex-wife into the room next to his." "Ouch, you play dirty." "Hal, you said Dr. Tom was going with us?" "Well, yes, I hope that's okay with you. I really am sorry for this afternoon, it's just that I really want what's best for you." "Do you know if he is married, or has a girl friend?" I asked. "Actually, I think he is pretty serious about someone, why?" "I was thinking we should probably have her come along ? we'll be paying for a double room anyway." "Good idea, you want to give him a call, or should I?" Hal asked. "Do you have his number?" Hal pulled out his PDA and looked up the number. I dialed and Tom answered on the third ring. "Hello?" "Tom, it's Kate Stevens. Hal and I were wondering if you had a girl friend that you might want to accompany you? Cendar's treat." "Wow, that's generous. Yes I do, but I don't know if she could get off work. She's working on the diagnostic hardware and that's a pretty hot project right now." "Tom, you mean she works at Cendar?" "Yes, that's where we met last year." "Call her and ask if she wants to go. Don't worry about her job, I think her boss will be overjoyed to let her go ? that is unless they want Hal to be upset with them," I laughed. "Call me back, and tell her not to worry too much about clothing, Linda and I are going shopping in Ft. Lauderdale anyway. Be sure she knows Cendar will pay for anything she wants or needs. After all, a happy doctor makes for a happy patient." We said our goodbyes, and I spoke to Hal. "I just did it, didn't I?" "What are you talking about?" "I just did to Tom what you did to me earlier, didn't I?" Hal nodded. "It's kind of nice to have that kind of power. I bet it's kind of addictive. I'm sorry I jumped so hard on you earlier." "No, you were right, I do get kind of domineering," Hal admitted. I walked around the desk and we embraced. "Do you love me?" he asked. Sighing, I looked him in the eyes "I suppose, but you are so exasperating sometimes. I can't constantly be haunted by your expectations and the memory of the original Kate." Hal bent down and kissed me. "I love you more than anything. Try to relax this next week, when you get back, then we'll work on making me a little less a 'miserable excuse for a human being' as you so aptly put it this afternoon." "Hon, I'm sorry, I've been so screwed up the last few weeks. Yes, we will work on both of us." The phone rang, Tom said his girlfriend Meredith would love to go, and would meet us at the airport in the morning. Hal and I went upstairs and joined Linda in the bedroom. We just sat around, watching TV until bedtime. Hal said goodnight, Linda and I changed for bed, and were soon asleep. Wednesday, December 12, 2001 I woke up early, a little after 5:30 in the morning. I brushed my teeth, pulled a robe on and went downstairs. I grabbed my Bible from the office and wandered into the gallery. In the northeast corner I found what I was looking for. I pulled a chair over, and sat down. The painting was of Kate, Becky and Tracy, and another woman standing behind them. It was a formal portrait, Kate and the little girls wearing matching dresses. I read a little in my Bible, but I was drawn back to the picture time and again. I don't know how long I sat there, taking in the details. Kate was seated, wearing a necklace with heart shaped locket and two little half hearts. The little girl's necklaces each had the other half of the hearts. Tracy and Becky stood in front of Kate, who had a hand on each of their shoulders, seemingly half hugging, half protecting her daughters. I sensed someone approaching. Hal walked up behind me, and wrapped his arms around me. "Good morning sweetheart, trouble sleeping?" he asked. "Not really, just woke up early and thought I'd read my Bible." "What are you reading?" "The book of Ruth; it's an incredible love story." "Well you picked a good location to read about love. Kate absolutely adored the babies. Their death was a horrible blow to her. I don't know if either of us would have made it through if we hadn't had Annie. She needed so much support and love, and we were the only ones who could give it to her. In helping her we managed to help ourselves." "Do you know the twins look just like Lisa did when she was that age?" I asked. "Really? I'm not surprised considering how much you are like Kate." "Who is the other woman in the portrait?" "That's Gwen Anderson, Annie's mom. When I commissioned the portrait it seemed appropriate." "She's lovely, and now that you mention it, I can see a lot of Annie in her. You know Annie's calling me mom now?" "No I didn't, but somehow it seems right." "Are you okay with me going away?" "Kate, if that's what you need then it's more than okay. I'll miss you, but you already knew that. I want you well, and I know that I'm partly to blame. Hey, are you ready for breakfast? I'm sure we can find something. I could make you an omelet if you like" "Sure, that sounds good. Wait a minute, you mean I can really go into the kitchen? Vikki never lets me in there," I said jokingly. Hal just laughed We walked into the kitchen and I watched as he began to gather ingredients. Hal took the leftover potatoes and spam from the night before out of the refrigerator. He grated the potatoes to make hash browns. While the potatoes cooked, he made an enormous omelet with some dried onion, the leftover spam, and cheddar cheese. I was "allowed" to make toast and set out tea and orange juice with the food was cooking. It was fun, just doing something so simple with Hal. About the time the food was finished Vikki came in, and being suitably scandalized, banished us from the kitchen. While Hal and I laughed, Vikki served us in the breakfast nook; adding fresh fruit to what we had prepared. Hal and I chatted there amongst the flowers as the sun rose in the east. Surprisingly, he asked if he could plan our itinerary for Thursday and Friday, promising that we would have a good time, but asking if he could leave the details a secret. It was so out of character for him to ask, so I smiled sweetly and told him sure, I'd trust him on this, but remember to include Tom and his girlfriend. Near the end of our meal, I asked Vikki to prepare a breakfast tray for Linda. When it was finished, I took breakfast up and served Linda in bed. "Well, you seem chipper enough this morning," she quipped. "Maybe my body's adjusting to the hormones, but I do feel better this morning. Are you ready for our adventure?" "You better believe it. I can't wait to get you alone; I intend to work my evil ways on you!" Linda said while making suggestive faces at me. Laughing I left her to finish her breakfast and crawled into the shower. This morning, I dressed in woolen slacks, and layered a thin white sweater over a pale blue blouse, and a heavier sweater over that. While Linda showered and dressed I woke Lisa and Tim. In case you've never had the pleasure, waking a 15 year old teenage boy on vacation can be a challenge. Waking one whose been playing on the computer till late at night is even harder. I finally threatened to pour water on him before he'd get up. Lisa and Tim went down to breakfast. Linda and I finished packing. I went to my jewelry case, and looked for the necklace I had seen in the portrait downstairs. Sure enough, the locket with the hearts was there. As were the half hearts that Tracy and Becky had been wearing. I found two longer chains, and placed the half hearts on them. Fastening the locket and hearts around my neck I pocketed the other two. Annie was downstairs, and I asked if she would come into my office for a minute. When she came in, I asked her to close her eyes, and I placed one of the necklaces around her neck. When I told her she could open her eyes, she turned and looked in the mirror, "oh my God, do you know what this is?" she asked bursting into tears. "Yes I do, since you've decided to call me mom, I wanted you to have something to remind you of me while I was gone." I said as I pulled my necklace out where she could see it. "You want my love, and I want to give it to you, will you wear that necklace for me as a reminder?" Sobbing, Annie nodded, and I pulled her into a tight embrace. "I think, under the circumstances, the original Kate, the twins, and even your mom would approve." I reached for a tissue, and helped her dry her eyes, "come on, I've one more person to reduce to tears this morning, let's go find Hal." Hal was in the atrium, chatting with Tim and Lisa. "Hal, could you join Annie and I for a moment?" When Hal joined us, I pointed out the necklace, and handed him the remaining half heart. "I'd like you to wear this while I'm gone. I know the chain is a bit dainty for you ? you could get a heavier one. But I would love to have you reminded of me while I'm away. Hal's eyes teared up, "Kate that's very sweet of you, but do you know what you're doing?" "Yes I do, remember where you found me this morning? I practically memorized every detail of that portrait. This feels right to me." "As long as you know, yes, I would love to wear it." I reached out and placed it around his neck. It looked vaguely silly, such a dainty feminine chain around his macho neck. While Hal, Annie and I were in my office, the FedEx truck arrived with the promised gowns. Annie said we could try them on en route, as she was going to go with us on the flight. "Well, are we ready to go?" Linda asked as she came downstairs. "I think so," I replied. Andy told me he'd brought our luggage downstairs. Linda and I hugged the kids, told them to be good. I put on a coat ? it had snowed, again; picked up my purse, and went out to the car. Annie, Hal, Linda and I, left for the airport with Andy driving. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------- Hal entered his office downstairs and called Jeeves, requesting him to come down to the office as soon as convenient. Five minutes later he entered the office. "Good morning Andy; who is our best protective officer?" "That depend on how you define "best," if you mean in combat skills, probably Pat Newmeyer. He's young, fast, and smart." "Is he married or single?" "Single, no one has been able to pin him down," Jeeves laughed, "He has quite a reputation with the ladies as a matter of fact." "Next question, of our single female agents, who has the best EMT training?" "That would be Sheila Rose. What is all this leading up to?" "I'd like to have a team accompany Kate and Linda; quietly and unobtrusively. A "married" couple who just happens to go on any excursion Kate chooses would seem to be the least conspicuous. And honestly, I don't want another tongue lashing from Kate. Damn she has a temper." "Well, it's your own fault you know. I wouldn't like being manipulated either." "You point is well taken Andy. Will you make the arrangements? I'd like them to have the cabin next to Kate and Linda. I suppose I'm going to have to call in some favors, but I want them protected. And one other thing, can you arrange to have them met at the airport in Miami, two officers to act as "tour guides" for Kate." "That's no problem; I'll contact Sheila and Pat and get them moving. Is Kate armed?" "Damn, I forgot to suggest that. Kate likes a SIG P226; can Florida provide one, and the necessary documents? Can we get permissions from the British and Mexico for Kate to carry while in the Caymans and Cozumel?" "I'll call the consulates and see what can be arranged," Andy replied. "We may have to offer something in return, maybe early production models of the new diagnostic stations?" "I suppose, maybe you could request a representative of the Ministry of Public Health to participate in the final documentation and development to facilitate the Spanish documentation. Offer to pay all expenses." "Okay, consider it done." "Thanks Andy, please just make sure Kate is safe." "Hal, everyone at Cendar wants her safe; I'll do everything I can." ----------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------- We made good time to the Beverly Airport, less than half and hour. With everything and everyone loaded on the plane, Hal took me into his arms, and kissed me like there would never be a tomorrow. He was an incredible kisser. I felt like I was the center of the universe, and the only thing that mattered in the world. His kiss sent shivers down my spine that were not the result of the 23 degree weather. "Have a good time, I'll see you next week," he said. I climbed up the stairs and into the plane. The stewardess closed the door, and within minutes we were airborne. When we reached our cruising altitude, Tom unbuckled his seat belt, and introduced us to his girl friend Meredith Lewis. "Meri this is Linda Williams, and I think you've met Kate Stevens before? And this is Annie Anderson. Ladies, this is my fianc? Meredith Lewis." "Fianc?? When did that happen?" I asked. "Last night she was just your girl friend." Meredith blushed brightly. "Well, she needed help getting everything ready, and I've been looking for an appropriate time to ask her to be my bride. When I went over to her house this morning, I popped the question, and she said yes!" "Congratulations. I'm really glad you were able to come along with us. I don't know what Tom has told you, but my doctors think I need a vacation, but that I also need a babysitter. So... Tom got drafted, and I didn't want him to be lonely. Please anything you want or need, just let Linda or I know." I walked over to the stewardess and requested champagne. As soon as it was served; "I propose a toast, to the newly engaged couple, may God richly bless you and your union." "Does anyone know anything about the hotel we're staying at?" Linda asked. Annie sighed, "yes, and I'm so jealous. The Mandarin is incredible. The spa will really pamper you, and the views are magnificent. You won't want to leave." "I don't think we'll be there all of the time. Hal asked to schedule Thursday and Friday; and there is absolutely no telling what his devious mind will come up with." Annie suggested Linda and I try on the gowns provided for us, and unsurprisingly they fit perfectly. "Meredith, did you bring a formal with you," Annie asked. "Call me Meri, please. No, I was hoping to rent something on the ship." Annie pulled out a tape measure and clipboard. "How about I see what Gowns R Us can do for you?" "You're kidding, aren't you?" I just laughed, "nope, all you need to do is tell Annie what you would like, let her measure and prod then get out of the way, it's like being in the middle of a hurricane!" "Mom, no its not." "Oh yes my dear, it most certainly is. Do you have your samples on the laptop?" Annie measured Meri, and input all the details into her laptop. The measurements were quickly turned into a three dimensional model complete to hair style, coloring, and face shape. Soon, we were all gathered around the computer screen looking at various designs. Looking at the samples on her personal model; Meri decided on a strapless dress with a deep v neckline ruched over the mid-s