Michelle took a sip of her red wine and set the glass down on the wood deck next to the oversize lounge chair she was sitting on. She stretched her legs out and sighed, finally relaxed after a busy day.

She heard a scuffling noise behind her and glanced around the back of the chair, snapping her fingers loudly and pointing up to the second story balcony of she and Steve's bedroom.

"Back in bed!" she said firmly.

She smiled hearing giggles and then scrambling of little feet as her daughter Ellen ran back to her room.

She faced the view again, enjoying the full moon and calm ocean in front of her. It was a perfect night in paradise. The soft breeze blowing in off the Pacific was just warm enough to remain comfortable in shorts and a t-shirt.

She was still getting used to the new view as well as the new house, but had no complaints. She missed the old house only because it was where she and Steve had lived after she had made the move from Virginia and where they were first married. It also had been the place where they had brought their twin girls home from the hospital. It was the prefect house in every aspect, except for the size with a growing family, and with a heavy heart they moved into a bigger one.

She was glad now they hadn't sold it, using it as a rental instead, which turned out to be more of a lucrative income than they had planned. The extra money that generated from the vacationers went into an account for the girls college funds and she and Steve's retirement. It was also the place they had decided would be their final home to spend their remaining years.

She looked around at the expansive deck that was attached to an even more elaborate house. The cost of this place never would have been achievable on she and Steve's income if it hadn't been for her trust fund from her grandparents. Their estate was set up to only give her a certain amount every three years. They were very conservative not wanting their grandchildren to squander the money as they had watched several of their friend's relatives do.

The payouts weren't enough to retire of off but it was enough to be able to splurge if they wanted something special, like a trip abroad or a generous down payment on a house. They had to use two of the payouts for the house they were living in, but as she sat there looking out she had to admit the wait was worth it.

She reached over the side and picked up her glass, taking another sip. She heard steps behind her and didn't bother looking back.

"I told you bed, now!"

Steve laughed, leaning over the back and running his hands down over her breasts, and then back up the side of her body. "Ok, ok, let's go."

Michelle looked up over her shoulder smiling at him. "Oh geez," she laughed. "I thought you were Ellen."

He came around the side and sat down next to her, stretching his legs out on the lounge. "Does that mean the offer is off the table?"

She scooted over closer to him, "That offer is always valid for you."

He put his arm out as she nestled in, draping it over her shoulder.

"How was work? Is the island safe?"

"Yep, all tucked in."

She handed him the glass of wine as he took a drink and handed it back.

"Mmm," he moaned over the sweet taste. "Is that some of the stuff your mom sent from Italy?"

"Yes. It's good huh?"

"Very."

"Do you want me to go get you a glass?"

"No," he groaned and settled into the soft cushion on the wooden lounger, squeezing her. "I'm content just sitting here with my beautiful wife." He closed his eyes, feeling relaxed after putting in almost thirteen hours at work that day.

"That's sweet," she grinned. "You really do want to get laid tonight don't you?"

Steve chuckled with his eyes still closed, "Just so you know, I want to get laid every night."

Michelle reached over him and set the glass down on the deck. She moved over on top of him, straddling his lap.

He smiled at her, moving his hands up and down her back. "Right now? Right here?"

"It's time we introduced ourselves to the neighbors," she teased.

"Well if you say so." He held on to her and rolled her over across the lounge so he was on top of her and between her legs.

Michelle gasped and then giggled over his playfulness. "You've got the moves, Commander." She held on around his neck as she pulled herself up close to his face. "Show me what else you got?"

"Gladly," he whispered before kissing her.

She could taste the wine on his tongue as they frolicked together. She could feel his want for her even through his pants, loving how she could excite him so quickly even after five years of marriage. He gave her the same thrill, she thought, feeling the wetness between her legs as his hips pushed down on her.

His next move was to get her up and in the bedroom, but all that came to a crashing halt as he felt a small body jump on his back.

"Daddy!" Ellen squealed, holding on around his neck as she lay across his back.

Michelle quickly stretched out her legs as she felt all the wind leave their romantic liaison, nothing could do it faster than being interrupted by the kids. It was like a natural birth control method.

"Who is that?" Steve said in a deep playful voice. He and Michelle both laughed over Ellen's giggles as he reached behind him and grabbed her small leg, pulling her around in front and laying her on the cushion next to her mother. "You can't sneak up on me," he growled, tickling her belly.

She squirmed around and shrieked with laughter. "Daddy!"

He stopped and moved off of Michelle, the three of them barely able to fit on the lounge. He lay on his side facing the two of them. "Why aren't you in bed?' he asked, without an ounce of anger in his voice.

"I heard you. I heard you come home," she smiled at him. "I missed you, Daddy" She reached over her mother and touched his face. "I want you to tuck me in."

Michelle could see his heart melt all over that statement, wanting to remind him that she was working him but then again he hadn't seen them all day, so this was an exception.

"Where's your sister?" he asked.

"She's in bed."

He knew her twin sister Elie was as she said, still in bed, but he also knew she was probably awake, but being the ever diligent and obedient child of the two, he knew she wouldn't come down. She followed the rules, always, where as Ellen was more of risk taker, and even at four years old she already played him like a fiddle when it came to his emotions, like now.

He sat up and bent over, scooping her up over his shoulder, "C'mon sneaky girl. I'll tuck you in." He smacked her on the butt a couple of times that was sticking up over his shoulder.

Michelle followed behind them, grinning over their playfulness.

Ellen laid over his back and held on to his shirt, laughing all the way up the stairs.

He came in their room that was slightly lit from the night-light plugged into the wall, and just as he had expected Elie was awake and sat up in her bed when he came in. She was identical to her sister and they both were the spitting image of their mother, including the auburn eyes and long dark hair. They kept Elie's shoulder length and Ellen's slightly longer so they could tell them apart.

"Hi Daddy," she said happily, holding her rag doll, Susie, that she'd had since she was born.

He laid Ellen down and went over to Elie's bed. "Hi sweetie," he said, sitting down on the edge. He leaned over as she reached up, hugging him. "How's my oldest girl today?"

"Fine," she smiled. "Did you eat dinner with Danny and Chin and Kono?"

He grinned, knowing she was asking out of worry because he wasn't home for dinner with them. It was a question she always asked when he got home late. "Yes I did."

She was happy about that and it showed. "What did you have?"

"Did you have pizza?" Ellen asked, standing next to him now.

"No. I had a turkey sandwich."

"Did you have cheese on it like the way you make for me and Ellen?" Elie asked.

"Yep," he rubbed his belly. "It was soooo good. I could have eaten a hundred."

Ellen laughed, "A hundred! You're tummy would be like this." She stuck hers out as far as she could.

Steve reached over and stuck his finger in it as she giggled, covering it up.

He focused back on Elie. "What did you two have for dinner?"

"I don't remember," Ellen said.

That's because you didn't eat it," Elie replied sharply. "Mommy made chicken and scabetti that wasn't red though."

"It looked weird," Ellen said with a disgusted look on her face.

"It was good," Elie argued.

"I didn't like it," Ellen whined.

"You don't like anything," her sister quickly pointed out.

"I like pizza."

"Everyone likes pizza."

"Not everyone, huh Daddy?" she looked to her father for help, often being sidelined by her sister's quick thinking.

He ignored the argument between them and tried to set a lesson instead. "Mommy works hard at cooking dinner for you after work, it would be nice if you at least tried it. You'd be surprised at how good some things taste if you just give it a chance."

Ellen sighed loudly, leaning against him. "Even if it looks yucky?"

"It doesn't look yucky. That's you being stubborn." He put his arm around her and squeezed, knowing where her stubbornness came from. It was genetic.

Elie came out from under the covers and crawled up to him on her knees, sitting on the other side of him. "Do you have to go to work tomorrow?"

He put his other arm around her, "Nope, tomorrow is Saturday," he squeezed both of them and gently shook them. "You know what I was thinking…" he waited for it, knowing his tone of voice would get their interest going.

"What?" they both asked simultaneously.

"I was thinking that we take advantage of that new beach in front of our house and take the kayak out. Do some exploring. What do you think?"

They both looked at each other with excited eyes, overjoyed by that idea. Ellen jumped up and down clapping her hands, while Elie hugged him tightly.

"Yes! Yes!" They both replied enthusiastically.

"Ok then, we're going to need our energy so a good night sleep is important."

Ellen ran back to her bed and climbed in, pulling her covers up and waited patiently as he tucked Elie in first.

Steve held her blanket up as she crawled in and then he pulled it up and did his routine 'tucking' that he knew they loved. He took his hands and pushed the blanket around her so you could see the outline of her body.

"There" he said, "all tucked in."

Elie giggled, puckering her lips because she couldn't move out from the perfect formation.

He leaned over and kissed them, whispering so only she could hear. "Good night my little princess. I love you." He took Susie and set her next to her head.

"I love you too Daddy," she replied.

He smiled at her, feeling every word of it, giving her one more kiss on the forehead before he went to Ellen.

He did the same tucking style with her. She giggled as her sister did.

He leaned over and whispered to her. "Good night my sweet girl. I love you."

"I love you too," she said, looking up at him. "Can I sit in front tomorrow?"

He smiled at her adventurous side, already planning it out. "Yes, you can have front first and Elie on the way back if she wants. How's that?"

She nodded enthusiastically, not caring so much about keeping the covers as pristine as her sister. They were twins Steve thought amused, but they couldn't have been more different. He kissed her forehead as well and stood up to leave.

He turned back before going out, getting one more look at them as they both stared at him with smiles. They were by far the greatest accomplishment of his life. He had no idea how badly he wanted kids until they were born. Even the unexpected chaos of twins just seemed like an added adventure in the whole scheme of things. He and Michelle worked well together as a team, knowing too it wouldn't have gone as smoothly with anyone else, contributing a lot of the stress release to their military backgrounds. They knew how to handle it and leaned on the other for support when needed.

He came in the bedroom and she was already in bed, sitting back against the headboard with her Kindle in hand, reading her latest book. She had her long dark hair swept up off her shoulders in a semi neat bun, not liking it in her face while she slept.

She looked up over the rim of her reading glasses as he came in. "Are they all tucked in?"

He grinned at her, heading toward the bathroom. "Yep. I'm going to take them kayaking tomorrow."

Michelle smiled brightly over that, knowing how much they loved spending time with him, plus it pleased her immensely that he wanted to spend his day off with them. She never had that when she was growing up and was always amazed at his willingness to spend every spare second he could with his kids. She felt blessed over that. He turned out to be an amazing father. "I think that's a great idea."

He came out of the bathroom shirtless with a toothbrush in his mouth. "Do you want to come or do you want the day?"

She gave a quick assessment but declined, letting him have this time alone with them. She had her moments and he deserved his. "No. I think I'll get some grocery shopping done and maybe we could try out that new grill when you get back."

He went back in the bathroom and finished up, turning the light off as he came out and then went to the bedroom door and closed it quietly and then locked it.

Michelle raised an eyebrow. "Oh my, locking the bedroom door. I know what that means." She took her glasses off and set them and her Kindle on the nightstand and watched with great pleasure as he stripped his clothes off until he was naked.

He didn't replay to her assumption but crawled up from the bottom of the bed, slowly, as if he were a jungle cat, stalking his prey. His eyes narrowed but his grin widened.

Michelle laughed as she scooted down so she was laying out flat. He paused at her knees, moving his hands up her thighs until he was under her shirt, which was actually an old shirt of his that she wore to bed. He slid his fingers in either side of her panties and slowly pulled them down, keeping his eyes on her.

She lifted her hips allowing him this pleasure. "I thought you'd be too tired tonight."

He tossed them aside and moved up her legs as she parted them for him. "We'll make it a quickie," he smiled devilishly, "but you know what tonight is?"

Michelle rolled her eyes. "Yes, I know what tonight is. It's your choice."

She ran her hand over his hair as he rested his chin between her breasts, looking at her hungrily.

"So, how do you want it?" she asked.

"Hmmm," he sighed. "Let me think about that."

"Think about what," she laughed. "You know you've been thinking about it all day, so don't pretend that you're contemplating some big new position."

"Don't rush me. I can't decide."

"Let me help you decide then."

She pushed on him, rolling him over on his back and straddled his waist.

"Take my shirt off," she ordered him.

He liked where this was going and pulled up on the bottom of it as she raised her hands, helping him. He tossed it over the side of the bed, admiring her perfect breasts with both his hands and his eyes. She was thrilled that they had stayed so well proportioned even after breast-feeding two babies, and she loved even more the way he admired them.

She put her hands over top of his and began to slowly move her hips, feeling him grow beneath her. He was still the most beautiful man she'd ever met, knowing he always would be, not only because it was a natural fact but because she loved him so much. They kept their eyes on each other, which only intensified the intimate moment between them.

He let out a deep moan as his hands moved down the side of her narrow hips and over her thighs, caressing them as he watched her pull her long hair out of the band and let it fall over her shoulders, feeling intoxicated over her beauty.

"Kiss me," she ordered him next.

He sat up on one elbow and took his other hand, cupping the back of her neck and pulled her down to his lips.

She laid him back on the bed as they let nature take its course, letting the kiss set the tone as he moved his hand into her hair, pulling her in closer.

She moved up and then slid back down him as he entered her, both of them reacting over it as the kiss deepened.

Michelle broke away and sat up on him, moving her body in a way that she knew he loved, seeing it on him as his expression weakened and his breathing became quick and sharp.

He held her by the hips, pushing into her as she held his wrists looking down at him, enjoying the incredible sensations that would ripple through her.

He pushed his head into the pillow as he worked to please her, seeing it on her as her beautiful face flushed and she gasped every so often when he went deep.

"Steve," her voice begging as she moaned and pulled on his arm, leaning back, telling him what she wanted next.

He could read her every move without the need for words, knowing exactly what she wanted. He held her tightly around the waist with one arm as he sat up and laid her back toward the foot of the bed in one swift move, never breaking the rhythm. He kept the firm hold around her waist; lifting her off the bed as he found the steady pace that she liked, hoping she came soon because he was close.

Michelle gripped the sheets as her body succumbed to the feeling of him moving inside her. All she could do was hold on as his experience of making love to her came full force, hitting that spot over and over until it hit it's peak and exploded inside of her.

He watched her body arch, knowing it was just hitting her then, which in turn gave him permission to let go and enjoy what she was. It didn't take long as he leaned over her bracing one hand by her head, still gripping her waist as he changed to the pace he wanted.

Even after she was done she still wanted more. Never rushing him. Getting him there too was just as pleasing. Her knowledge of knowing his body was just as experienced as she used her hands to heighten his pleasure. It only took one sweep over his body when she felt all his muscles tighten and then heard the incredible sexy way in which he released inside of her. She held still letting him use her body to get the full potential, smiling as he did.

He whimpered softly when it was over, resting his forehead on her shoulder as she ran her hand over his hair and down his back that began to perspire from the workout. He slid his hand out from underneath her and slowly collapsed on top of her, letting his body come down from it.

"That was a good one," Michelle sighed, stroking his back.

He rose up to see her face, kissing her. "It was," he agreed still panting.

"I was talking about me," she teased. "Did you come too?"

He laughed over that, moving inside her again. "No, so let's keep going."

Michelle giggled and pushed him away this time. "You're on your own for the next one buddy."

Steve moved off of her as she crawled up to the front of the bed and he lay on his back, relaxing. "Great way to end the day," he sighed contently.

Michelle looked back at him and grinned as she reached over the side of the bed and grabbed her shirt, slipping it back on.

He moved his feet allowing her to retain her earlier position as she sat with her back against the headboard. She reached down and took one of his feet that was next to her and set it on her lap, massaging it.

"Oh baby," Steve moaned, putting his hands behind his head, "that feels good."

She smiled over his pleasure, returning the gesture that he bestowed upon her more times than she could count. "Where are you taking the girls kayaking tomorrow?"

"Just off the beach outside somewhere. I was going to see if we could find a good snorkeling spot. That reef that starts over by Diamond Head has some good spots. It's close by now."

"I thought Elie was scared last time you guys went snorkeling?'

"She was at first but if I hold her hand she's ok."

Michelle smiled, "You're a good dad. I don't think I tell you that enough."

He lifted his head looking down at her. "You're a good wife. I don't think I tell you that enough."

"I just love my husband."

He pulled his foot away and moved up the bed next to her. "Thank God for me." He took his pillow and curled it up under his head and rested next to her legs, putting an arm over them. "We need to do something about Ellen getting out of bed every night."

"I know!" Michelle agreed, running her fingers up and down his back. "She was already up once before you got home."

"We should take away a privilege every time it happens."

"I agree. Start with TV time and work up to the big stuff."

"Yep," he sighed, feeling content and on the verge of sleep. "She's the adventurous one of the two, and I love that about her, but it has to have its limits at this age."

"She has you and I to the extreme in her," Michelle grinned, stroking his muscles on his back.

"I think she took Elie's adventurous side from her when they were in the womb together." He looked up at her, "I'm telling you though, Elie's going to end up being some sort of Ambassador for world peace or head of the Red Cross. She may not be as adventurous as her twin but if Elie sees someone or something in need, I think she'd go through a war zone to help them." He lay back down again. "She was concerned tonight over my missing dinner," he smiled.

"She loves her Daddy and worries about him. You're right though, I think she'll do wonderful things with her life that will involve helping others, while Ellen will probably end up a Fleet Admiral."

They both laughed over that.

"Of course they're only four," Steve chuckled. "They'll both probably end up being surfers and beach bums."

That got another laugh out of both of them.

"As long as they're happy," Michelle added.

"Happiness is the meaning of life," Steve professed, pushing himself up and kissing her. He lay back down; getting comfortable in his position nestled next to her.

"I'm going to read for a while longer, do you mind?"

"Nope, I'll be out in about ten seconds."

She put her glasses back on before turning the lamp off.

She held the Kindle in one hand picking up where she left off and lazily ran her fingers up and down his back with her other.

They settled in to a typical night in the McGarrett household.

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Steve checked over Ellen's facemask one more time before lifting her up and setting her in the water outside the kayak.

"Hold on to the edge and do not," he said firmly, "let go until I get out, understood?"

She nodded her response unable to talk with the snorkel in her mouth. She dipped her face in the water, looking around the best she could while still holding on.

Steve put Elie's mask on her face and adjusted it. "How's that? Is it too tight?"

She shook her head and looked nervously over the edge of the boat at her sister, making sure she was still holding on, and trying to find the same bravery she had. There was no way she would be outside the boat without her father in this deep of water. "Can we hold hands Daddy," she asked him.

"Of course," he replied enthusiastically. "The funnest part for me is getting to swim with you."

She took her attention away from the ocean and looked back at him, pleased over his excitement. "Me too!" she replied with the same enthusiasm.

"Ok then," he held up her snorkel, "let's get this show on the road."

"You get in the water first, ok Daddy? And then I'll get in."

Steve smiled, knowing she was still a little nervous. "Ok."

He got her snorkel on and then before getting in the water he secured the strap around his shin and tucked his knife in just for precautions. They were about a hundred yards off shore in relatively shallow water but he never took the ocean or nature for granted.

He rolled over the side and came up grabbing the side of the kayak and steadying it. Ellen had already let go and was bobbing in the water next to him, letting her life jacket do the treading for her.

"Ok, c'mon sweetie," he said to Elie, holding his arms out.

She leaned over bracing her hands on the side of the boat as he grabbed her under the arms and dragged her over the side. She held onto him tightly as he took the rope from the kayak and secured it to his life vest.

"Look down in the water, Elie," Ellen said enthusiastically, holding her snorkel in her hand. "There's a whole bunch of fish." She put it back in her mouth and looked down again.

"I'm waiting for Daddy," she panted, gripping his bicep with both hands.

He put an arm around her, looking at her eyes through the mask that told him she wasn't having fun yet. "Maybe we'll see Ariel today," he grinned, quoting the name of the Little Mermaid from the Disney movie he alone had seen at least four times.

Elie smiled, "Or maybe Sebastian."

"I love Sebastian!" Steve said. "If I see him I'm going to shake his claw."

Elie laughed, "You're like Prince Eric, Daddy."

"Daddy's like Ursula," Ellen teased, busting out laughing as he reached for her.

"Ursula? I'm not a big fat octopus." He raised his fist in the air and spoke in a loud, deep voice. "I'm King Triton!"

Both girls laughed as he made a funny face trying to look big and strong. He pulled in Ellen and held both girls. "You are both my little Ariel's."

They looked at each other giggling hysterically.

"Are we ready to have some fun?" Steve said to them.

"Yes!" both girls cheered, even Elie was excited now, having been relieved of her fear.


Michelle stood on the beach waiting as they approached the shore. She came out knee deep in the water and caught the front of the boat as Steve steered it in.

"Did we have fun?"

"Yes!" both girls yelled.

"We saw a turtle!" Elie shrieked.

"A turtle?" she looked at Ellen as she agreed with her sister.

"Yes, and it was swimming right below us."

Elie reached up as her mother lifted her out of the boat and set her in the water. "We saw all kinds of pretty fish. They were swimming like a family all together."

"That's so cool."

"It was pretty," Ellen added as she came out next.

"I'm glad you had a good time." She pointed at the deck. "There's some lemonade and snacks on the table on the deck if you're hungry."

Both girls pushed their way through the water and ran up the beach through the small gate that led up the stairs to the deck.

Michelle held the boat as Steve got out next. "Sounds like fun was had by all."

He smiled at her, grabbing the front of the kayak and pulling it up on shore. "It was fun. Elie was a little nervous at first but she calmed down pretty quickly. She even let go of me once when we saw the turtle."

She helped him gather up the items from the inside of the boat. "Good for her."

"What did you do all day?" he asked as he followed her up the path, dragging the boat behind him.

"I ran some errands. I got some steaks for dinner." She paused looking back at him. "And I got my last assignment overseas."

Steve stopped, looking at her as his happy expression faded, "How long?"

Michelle smiled brightly, "Only ten days and its my last one, thank god."

He let out a sigh of relief and the smile returned, pleased too it was her last trip. He never pressured her about quitting the travel portion of her job; it was her decision to stop. "I hate it when you're gone for a night, but I can handle ten days, barely. It's better than the normal two weeks. Where are you going?"

"I don't know yet. They just said when I'll be leaving and for how long. You know the government. I'll be handed my papers as I board the plane."

Steve huffed, "They trust you to go but don't trust you with the information ahead of time. I never understood that." He set the kayak on the deck. "When do you leave?"

"Next Monday, back on the following Wednesday. I talked to my mom and she'll be here on Sunday."

Steve grinned, "Oh yeah, I forgot that your mom would be here to take care of the girls."

"Stop with the lies," Michelle laughed. "You probably secretly wish I was going longer so she could stay longer."

"Not true! But I do love it when your mom comes and visits."

"Only because she adores you and caters to you."

"What can I say," he smiled, "I'm a great son-in-law."

Michelle rolled her eyes, "I do have to admit that since I married you that hers and my relationship has certainly taken a turn for the better. She credits you for her beautiful granddaughters," she put a hand on her chest, "not that I had anything to do with it."

"Do you think she'll make me that pot roast she made when we were in Boston?" he asked, almost giddy. "God that was good."

"I'm sure she'll make you anything your little heart desires," she replied, rolling her eyes again. "But for right now YOU need to get that grill fired up because I'm starving and one of those steaks has my name on it."

"Yes ma'am." He kissed her cheek as he went by, putting a hand on each of the girl's heads, "Who wants a big, juicy steak for dinner?"

"Me!" Elie shouted.

"Me!" Ellen followed by raising her hand as well.

"Ok, I need helpers, lets go!" He motioned to the kitchen as they both scrambled out of the miniature picnic table and ran past him into the house.

Michelle stood and watched them with a smile on her face. She recalled her mother telling her once how proud she was of her for marrying so well and for doing such a great job with raising the girls. She had done so much in her life, and accomplished so many goals, graduating BUD/S class, working Naval Intelligence and even working for the Secret Service and now for the Government as a contract negotiator but her mother was right, her greatest accomplishment was her family and she wouldn't jeopardize her life with Steve and the girls for anything. She was the happiest she'd been her whole life.

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"Nana Clair!" Elie and Ellen both screamed as they came flying out of the house past their mother and into the open arms of their grandmother. There could be no doubt in anyone's mind that the four of them were related. The hair, the facial features and even their body types were similar.

"Look at how big you've got just over a few months!" She hugged both of them, shaking them back and forth. "I'm so excited to be here!"

"Did you bring us presents?" Ellen blurted out.

"Ellen Marie," Michelle scolded her. "You don't ask that question you wait until Nana offers them to you."

She looked sheepishly at her grandma, "Sorry Nana," her expression turned hopeful, "but did you?"

"Of course I did!" she replied before Michelle could comment, jumping up and down, clapping her hands excitedly with the girls. She shrugged her shoulders at her daughter as she approached her with her arms open wide. "Did you miss me?"

"Hi Mom," Michelle said as they greeted each other with a hug. "Of course I did."

"Hi honey." She squeezed her tightly. "I'm so glad you called me. I wish I could have come earlier so I could visit with you longer."

"We have today and tonight to catch up."

"You look wonderful." She stood back and looked her over. "Are you pregnant?"

"No," Michelle replied quickly. "Why?"

"You just have this glow about you is all"

Michelle smiled, "It's called paradise Mom. Comes from living in Hawaii."

"Where would you like these, Clair?" the driver asked as he bent over picking up her suitcases. She never allowed them to pick her up at the airport, always insisting on having a service pick her up and take her. She could afford it so they stopped arguing.

"Just right inside is fine, thank you, John."

"She reached in her Louie Viton purse and pulled out a twenty, handing it to him. "Thank you so much."

"Mahalo ma'am. Enjoy your visit with your daughter and family."

"I will, Aloha."

"Aloha Clair," he replied before getting back in the black Lexus sedan and pulling out of the driveway.

"Where is Steve?"

"He got called in to work, but I talked to him a little while ago and he should be home soon."

"Good. I would like everyone together tonight." She put her arm over her shoulder as they walked in the house.

"Why?" Michelle asked nervously, "Do you have some announcement or something?"

"No," she squeezed her. "I just love being with all of you. It makes me feel good."

Michelle put her arm around her waist. "That's nice. Thank you."

Clair stopped when she came in the new house. "Wow! This is a lot bigger than the other one. The outside is deceiving."

"I know," Michelle agreed. "We wanted space."

"For more kids?" she asked hopeful.

Michelle laughed, "Maybe. What is it with you and me popping out some more kids?"

Clair laid out one of her suitcases flat and unzipped it as the girls kneeled on the floor patiently waiting for their gifts. "I just think you and Steve are the perfect couple and perfect couples should procreate the world." She kneeled down next to Ellen and Elie and squeezed them tightly, her voice overly sweet, "You raise wonderful little people too."

"Thanks again, Mom." She eyed her suspiciously. "Are you sure you're not buttering me up for something?" she tilted her head. "You're not thinking about buying on the island again are you, because we already talked about that and you would be bored here in about a month? You like to move about too much."

She handed each girl a neatly wrapped gift as they squealed with excitement and tore off to the couch to unwrap them. "No," her shoulders slouched over that comment, hearing it as a plea of not wanting her to stay forever. "I'm not planning on staying forever. I know I wasn't the best Mother while you were growing up Michelle. I dragged you here and there and I partied more than I parented. I have regrets about that now more than you know. But when I come here and see how happy you are it makes me feel that maybe I did something right along the way."

She felt a wave of guilt. "I'm sorry I shouldn't have said that the way I did. I didn't mean that we wouldn't want you here. And we had some good times growing up too." Michelle smiled. "I mean what other mother wakes her daughter up at one o'clock in the morning when its twenty degrees outside to get on a private jet and fly down to Florida to have breakfast on the beach? I mean c'mon. That was awesome!"

Clair nodded in agreement, "That was fun wasn't it. Remember all the clothes we bought and we couldn't even wear them for six months," she laughed.

"Mommy!" Ellen shouted as she came running over with her gift. "Look what Nana got me?"

Michelle and her Mother exchanged a smile, both feeling that shift in their relationship, as they grew older and wiser, realizing with age what the important things in life really were.

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Steve came in the front door, closing it behind him, calling out. "Do I smell pot roast cooking?" he teased, but dropping a hint as well. He came down the small hall from the foyer that led to the great room and the open kitchen that was adjacent to the family room. Beyond that the disappearing glass walls led out to the deck and their view of the Pacific.

"Daddy!" both girls came running toward him.

"Look what Nana got for us?" Elie said, holding up a necklace. "Isn't it beautiful!"

"It is," he acknowledged her, seeing Clair coming toward him.

She came in from the deck with her arms stretched out, "Steven! How's the best son-in-law in the whole world?"

"Hi Clair," he smiled. "It's great to see you." They embraced each other fondly.

She stepped back looking at his gun and badge. "Did you catch the bad guys?"

"All locked up," he said proudly, patting his badge. "You're safe and sound."

Clair laughed, taking his arm and leading him out back. "I heard your entrance plea. I'll go to the grocery store tomorrow. You make a list of what you want to eat this week besides my pot roast and I'll make it."

"Yes ma'am!" he replied rubbing his hands together.

"You are so spoiled," Michelle said as he bent over giving her a kiss hello.

"I can't help it if she likes to cook for me."

"I love doing it. I've taken several cooking classes over the past couple of years and Steve and my friends are the only ones I get to experiment on, so I take advantage of it. Believe me by the time I leave here I have it all out of my system until the next visit."

Steve patted his belly, "And I have five extras pounds. That's not a complaint," he quickly added. "It's worth every pound."


After dinner was over and they finished off a bottle of wine on the deck, it was time for the girls to go to bed.

"Can the girls sleep with me in my room tonight?" Clair asked. "I'm jet lagged. It's about two in the morning in Boston and I'm ready for bed too."

"Please!" Ellen and Elie both jumped up and down shouting and begging.

"I promise Mommy, I won't get out of bed one time," Ellen swore with her hands folded together, pleading.

"Yes," Michelle smiled, "I don't care."

"Yay!" all three of them jeered.

Steve carried her bags up and set them down in the room as Clair opened up one of the suitcases. "I brought something for you," she said to him.

"Is it a GI Joe?" he smiled.

Clair laughed, "No, close but no."

She took out a back box from her suitcase and handed it to him. "It was my grandfather's. He got it in World War II."

Steve opened it seeing the Purple Heart medal.

"I want you to have it. I want to make sure it stays in a safe place with family after I'm gone and I know you'll take care of it. I think he would have liked that. He would have liked you."

"Wow, Clair," he said taken back by her tremendous gift and words. "I don't know what to say." He put his arms around her and hugged her. "This is probably the nicest thing anyone's ever given me."

She hugged him back and then stepped back, wiping her fingers under her eyes. "I knew you'd like it."

"I do," he said admiring it. "I like it very much, and I will take care of it. I promise." The gift was something special, but it was her acceptance of him into their family that really made it special.

She rubbed her hand on his arm in a motherly way. "I know you will."

The girls came in her room carrying their pillows and dragging blankets behind them.

"Are you sure about this, Clair?" Steve asked of the girls.

"Absolutely, besides," she smiled at him. "My gift to Michelle is to get the kids out of her hair so you two can have the rest of night alone together before she leaves in the morning."

"You are the best mother-in-law ever," he said kissing her cheek.

"Right. Now shoo," she flapped her hands motioning for him to leave. "I have a date with my beautiful granddaughters."

"I'm taking my Purple Heart and I'm leaving. Have fun."

"You too," she said closing the door.

He put the medal on his dresser, deciding to have it framed alongside Michelle's Navy Expeditionary Medal she'd received for saving his life that night on the hill. It was in his office proudly on display, this new one would look just as impressive next to it.

He went back down stairs seeing Michelle in the kitchen loading the dishwasher. He came up behind and put both arms around her waist. "Leave it," he said. "The girls are with Clair for the rest of the night. It's just you and me."

"Really?" she responded happily.

"Yep, so c'mon," he took her hand, pulling her out of the kitchen.

"Where are we going?"

"Out."

"Out, where?"

"Don't ask," he patted her butt. "Go get in the truck. I have to get some stuff and I'll be out in a minute."

She didn't ask questions, just did as she was told, thrilled for a night out.


"Hold it," Michelle said, "ok, go, go, go, you got it, you got it. Perfect, stop!"

Steve put the truck in park and turned it off.

Michelle leaned over the seat to him. "You are so good," she said kissing him.

"I have a good navigator."

They both got out and climbed in the back of the truck as it sat about twenty feet from a ledge overlooking the Pacific that was just visible enough from the three quarter moon over their heads. Steve laid the tailgate down and spread out the blankets while Michelle opened a bottle of wine.

She handed him a cup and they tapped their glasses together before taking a drink.

"This is perfect," she said, leaning over and kissing him. "Thank you."

"My pleasure."

They laid down with two pillows on the tailgate and faced each other. The night air was warm but not humid considering the altitude they were at. It was comfortable.

They didn't say anything for a minute just soaking each other in as they so often did. The silence was never awkward, it was rewarding.

"You're mom gave me your grandfather's Purple Heart."

"I know. She told me she was going too. I think she was a little nervous that it might offend me."

"Did it?"

"No. I think you should have it. I think it was very a thoughtful offer and I'm glad she did it. Besides, the meaning of it fits you. You've been in several battles and I've only been in one."

Steve smiled, knowing exactly which battle that was. She had saved his life in it. "That was some battle too. Good thing for me you were there. You're an amazing woman you know that."

"Why," she chuckled, "because I thought you should have the medal?"

"Because you always think of me before yourself. Even that night."

"If that makes me amazing, then you're incredibly amazing."

"I'm just madly in love with you," he said blatantly rolling over on his stomach and looking out at the view. "You know as well as I do that I'm putty in your hands."

Michelle laughed.

"It's true woman, don't make fun of me because I'm a whipped man." He looked over at her and grinned.

She put her arm over his back, laying her chin on his shoulder. "Remember that time in Thailand when you took me on that boat ride through the market place and I ate star fruit for the first time?"

"Of course. That day is up there on my list as one of my best days ever."

She smiled over that, "I think about that day sometimes and when we were playing in the boat, splashing each other and I slipped and fell on you…"

Steve nodded, remembering it all too clear.

"I'll never forget looking at you and thinking how easy life would be with you. Even then I knew." She kissed his shoulder. "Of course it took about four years to get there."

Steve huffed, "Wasted years."

"Maybe not. Everything happens for a reason."

"So me plummeting down a mountain in a helicopter was reason?" he chuckled.

"You know what I mean. You never would have met Anai and her family."

"That's true," he agreed. "And we probably wouldn't be living here. I'm sure I would have moved to DC and that's where we would have lived."

Michelle groaned, "Geez, can you imagine?" she looked out at the view. "This is where we belong. I don't think of it as wasted years. It was fate." She kissed his shoulder again. "So you see, everything happens for a reason."

He rolled over on his side again, propping his head up in his hand. "Fate is you coming down that hill that night."

"Or you walking into my bar."

"Or you coming down that hill," he repeated, knowing she still after all these years refused to take credit for it.

"There was a cute guy down there," she teased, "of course I was going to go down."

Steve smiled.

"You know what?" Michelle said, changing the subject. "My mom asked me if I was pregnant."

"She did? Did you tell her we were trying?"

"No! She just asked out of the blue. She said I had this glow about me."

"Maybe you are," he said rolling her over on her back.

"What if we have twins again?" she said with wide, frightened eyes.

He didn't even flinch over that comment. "It might work out better that way, then Ellen and Elie won't have to fight over who gets to hold the baby."

She smiled up at him, stroking her hand over his back under his shirt. "You're always up for anything aren't you?"

"If you keep touching me like that I'm going to be up for something all right, pretty quickly," he winked at her.

"I'm going to miss you," she said sincerely, pulling him down on her. "I don't like being away from you."

He smoothed her long dark hair back with his hand, looking into her auburn eyes that sparkled in the moonlight above them. "You are so beautiful," he whispered, "Don't think for one second that you are ever away from me, Michelle. You're always with me. No matter where you are."

"Do you want to know a secret?" she whispered back.

"Yes," he grinned.

"I know why I came down that hill that night," she confessed, getting his attention because it was the first time she had ever broached the subject on her own. "For years I told myself it was because it was what I was trained to do. It was my duty." She reached up, putting a hand on his face, "but now, I consider it the greatest moment of my life, and I thank God every day for giving me the strength and guidance to be there for you. I truly believe with all my heart that I was put there for a reason and it had nothing to do with responsibility or obligation. This incredible bond that I feel with you didn't start that night I came down the hill, or the night you walked into that bar, it started the day I was born. I feel like everything I've done my whole life was for one purpose, to bring me right here into this life with you." She stroked his face. "I would come down that hill everyday for the rest of my life to keep you safe, without even a hint of hesitation. I know people say I would give my life for you as cliché' or a play on words, but I mean it, I would Steve." She smiled at him, "And I know without a shadow of a doubt that you would do the same for me."

He only showed his deepest emotions that resulted in tears to two people since becoming a man, one was Michelle the day the twins were born and the other was his father on the night he thought he lost her. He felt no shame in either knowing he was safe in their company. He was still reeling over her words that had articulated his feelings for her so precise that he had nothing left to add to what she had said to him, but it showed on him so clearly there was no reason for words.

She moved her thumb over his eye wiping away the moisture that teetered on the brim.

"You're right, Michele," he began, "I would die for you, because I can't imagine a life without you." He shook his head at the just the thought of it. "I can't."

He brushed his lips over hers, "You're my best friend."

She closed her eyes and kissed him, feeling a tear escape out of the corner.


Michelle sat up from resting her head on his shoulder as they pulled into the driveway of the house. She was still reeling over their time spent together the last couple of hours. She felt like they were in a new place in their relationship, wishing now more than ever that she wasn't leaving in the morning.

Steve got out and held his hand out to her as she slipped out the driver's side after him.

She held onto it as they walked to the front door. She stopped just before he had a chance to unlock it and stood in front of him.

"I had fun tonight. Thank you for a wonderful date."

He smiled at her, "You're welcome. I had fun too." He moved a little closer to her. "Do you think there's a chance I could see you again sometime," he teased, pretending to be dropping her off as if it were a real date.

Michelle played along with him. "I have kids you know, twin girls."

"I love kids."

"Then yes, I think I would like to see you again."

He slid an arm around her waist. "Is it ok if I kiss you goodnight?"

She had been married to him for over five years and kissed him countless times, but somehow this one she was anticipating more than any other. It just followed the mood of the night, not only that, but he also looked incredibly handsome as he stood there with his smoldering blues eyes looking at her so charming and masculine she actually felt her knees weaken.

"I guess one kiss would be all right," she whispered to him.

He grinned and moved in slowly, as if it really were their first kiss.

Her heart pounded, anticipating the feel of his lips on hers. When it did happen she felt it skip as he pulled her up against him, not holding anything back as all his years of knowing his wife played out in that single moment. They were in perfect sync as they played with each other, the timing impeccable of knowing when to break just long enough to tilt to the other side, which only made it heat up even more.

Michelle let out a soft moan as they eased down from it and slowly broke apart.

He rested his forehead on hers, enjoying the aftermath, loving the way it made him feel.

"Do you want to come inside," she asked, continuing with their game.

Steve's smile widened, "Yes ma'am!"

She wrapped her arms around his neck as he lifted her up with one arm and unlocked the front door, carrying her inside.


Michelle nestled her face in the nape of his neck, whispering in his ear as he made love to her.

"I love you so much."

She heard his reaction in a pleasing sigh and felt it as he pushed deeper into her and pulled her closer to him. He searched out her lips, kissing her for not only saying it, but for feeling it too.

She moved with him, lifting her hips off the bed, keeping a perfect rhythm with his body. They knew each other so well it was like a well-choreographed dance. The way he could make her body sing was pure talent on his part. He'd always been a good lover, but over the years he'd mastered the skill of being able to please her in the most sensuous of ways that often times left her dazed when he was through with her.

He rose above her, looking down at the beautiful creation that was his wife. He slowed his pace, savoring this time with her, hating that she was leaving him but anticipating her return too. The night she got back was going to be just as rewarding as this one was.

He slowly slid his hand down the front of her body, admiring the soft skin beneath his palm and fingertips. His eyes moved back up locking with hers as he leaned down closer to her face, keeping the visual that only intensified the moment for both of them.

"So beautiful," he told her with a grin. "I'm so lucky to have you, Michelle."

She rose up on her elbow, getting closer to him. "Are you? Do I make you happy, Steve?" she asked him wanting nothing more in the world than for his answer to be yes, knowing then that she had succeeded in her endearing attempt.

"Always. You're the only woman I've ever loved, and you'll always be the only woman I'll ever love."

There were times like this when his romantic side would surface and make her heart soar, leaving her breathless. "I'll never be with another man for as long as I live. I feel so blessed to have found you too."

He kissed her again, sliding his arm under her waist and gripping her. She knew what he wanted and locked her legs around him as he lifted her up, sitting back on his heels, keeping her straddled around him.

She held on around his neck keeping a steady gaze on him as she took control of their love making now, both loving this position for obvious reasons.

His hand slid up her back until it was covered with her hair, gripping it ever so gently, tilting her head back and kissing her neck from one side to the next as she moaned happily over that move, picking up her pace knowing what he liked and what she liked too.

"Oh, that's good," he moaned, facing her again, looking into her as she moved on him.

He held her tightly pushing into her as he watched her eyes soften and look at him in that way that made his heart soar; she was so beautiful, always amazed at his good fortune for being where he was at that moment. He was truly blessed. She was the love of his life and at that second he was taking every advantage of that love, feeling it move through him like he'd been struck by lightening. Every nerve tingled and his head swirled as he entered those few second of shear and utter ecstasy, all because of her.

She watched with pleasure as she catapulted both she and her husband to that ultimate state of bliss. His expression weakened at the same time that her body trembled over the same feeling that seemed to ricochet off of each other. The deep, low growl coming from him only made it more pleasurable for her, loving that sound knowing it was a good one for him.

He laid her back on the bed, thanking her with a kiss that turned into another one and then another, until they lay in the aftermath, making out like teenagers. It just felt too good to stop.

She ran her hands over his head and body as he looked down at her with a pleasing smile.

"God you are gorgeous," Michelle blurted out, smiling as she saw the bashful reaction from the truthful compliment show on his face. "You are," she said again.

It felt good to hear, giving him that sense of security that every man needed to feel. His wife was a master at making him feel it. "I love you," he said sincerely and with a smile.

She hugged him tightly as he rolled them over on their sides, still clinging to each other. He pulled her pillow down and tucked it under her head, making her confortable. They lay in that position for a long time, just talking about plans they had made and making new ones. Briefly discussing the baby that was maybe growing inside of her as they spoke of the future. They were in no rush for the new addition, letting Mother Nature take its course, assured she would bless them when the time was right.

They made love again before falling asleep neatly tucked into each other's embrace. It was like heaven on earth.

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Ellen and Elie both stood in front of Michelle as she sat on the stairs, holding each one of their hands. "You be good for Nana, and help out Daddy, ok?"

They both nodded.

"I'll call as often as I can through the computer, and I want to hear everything you did that day."

"How many days until you come home?" Elie asked somberly.

"Ten. It's not very long," Michelle replied trying to sound positive but feeling the separation already. She knew neither girl understood the true meaning of ten days, but the looks on both of their faces was painful. "C'mon now," she said pulling them both in and hugging them tightly. "I had a great idea. When I get back I think the three of us should go and have a special day together."

Ellen wiped the back of her hand across her eyes, "Like what?"

"I was thinking we could go have a nice lunch somewhere and then we could go and get our nails and toes painted. What do you think?"

Both girls nodded and smiled.

"That's my girls," she hugged them again. "I can't wait!"

Steve leaned against the wall by the front door watching her, knowing how hard this was on her. He was glad it was the last trip, hating to see her have to say goodbye to them. He glanced out the window by the front door seeing the black sedan pull in the driveway. He hated her having to say goodbye to him as well.

"Cars here," he said.

She looked up at him and then at the girls, "I have to go. I love you. Can I have a big hug to hold me over until I see you again?"

They both put their arms around her neck and squeezed. "I love you too, Mommy."

"Bigger!" she said.

They both squeezed harder as she fell back on the steps, taking them with her, all three of them laughing. She kissed them over and over before she stood up. "I'll bring you back presents. Something special for each one of you." She looked at each of them once more as they held on around her waist. "I love you."

Clair came up next and hugged her. "Have a safe flight honey. I love you. Don't worry about things around here. I'll take care of everything and everyone. You just do your job and get back home safely."

"Thanks Mom. I love you too."

She waved good-bye to the girls as she stepped outside with Steve. He put his hand on her shoulder and as they walked to the car it slid down her arm until his hand was in hers. They stopped a few feet away as the driver put her bags in the back.

Steve took her hand that he held and brought it up to his lips, kissing the back of it as he looked at her. "Last trip."

"Last trip," she smiled. "I'll call you as soon as I can," she promised.

He sighed, putting his arms around her as they embraced each other. He repeated his standard plea before every departure. "I love you. Be careful, be safe, don't go out at night alone and don't go out without your passport." She was as capable as any man he knew, knowing well her background as a Seal and her extensive training, but when you took that all away she was still his wife and he worried. He pulled back looking at her as he reached in his back pocket and pulled out his phone, showing her the app with a countdown clock, set for the hour of her return. "I'm counting down the days."

She put an arm around his neck. "Let me leave you with a little going away present for my return." She reached around and cupped his right buttock. "If you think last night was something baby, you just wait ten days from now. I'm going to eat you alive."

Steve laughed, "I can barely walk from last night. I'll make sure I take plenty of vitamins and exercise until then."

She removed her hand and moved it up his back, putting the silliness aside. "I love you. I promise I'll be safe, I promise I'll be careful. I won't go out at night alone and I'll always keep my passport with me."

The driver cleared his throat getting her attention. "Ma'am," he said in a very monotone voice, "the plane is set to leave at twelve hundred hours and I'm ordered to have you arrive thirty minutes early."

Neither one gave him the courtesy of breaking their line of vision away from the other.

"Duty calls," she sighed. "Love you."

He gave her a kiss, holding it for a few seconds before moving to her cheek and then hugging her again. "I love you too. Be good." He gave her a couple gentle pats on the butt as she broke away from him and got in the car. The driver closed the door and quickly got in the other side, needing to speed to keep up with his schedule that was now five minutes behind.

Michelle looked out the window and blew him a kiss as well as the girls who stood at the door with her mother as they pulled out of the driveway.

Steve smiled and raised a hand, waiting until the car was out of sight. The instant it was, his hand came down and his smile faded. He stood in the driveway feeling that space in his heart that was empty without her.

The feeling would remain until she came home and was back by his side.

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Michelle boarded the private jet and took a seat behind a small table across from her boss Bryan List. He was there to fill her in on the details of the trip but not accompany her. He was dressed in his standard dark suit, white shirt and dark tie. He was a few years older than her, but the stress of his job aged him faster than nature intended. He wasn't military and had never served a day in the armed forces but had risen to the top of National Intelligence by sheer brains and determination. He was straightforward and emotionless when it came to the job. She'd couldn't recall ever seeing him really smile, let alone laugh, wondering if he even had teeth behind that cement grin that he greeted her with.

"I have your papers here." He handed her a thick manila envelope. "The agenda is outlined in the file on your laptop. Standard protocol." He handed her a thirteen-inch MacBook laptop that was only accessible to her when she went on trips as well as a secured cell phone. They were given to her the day she left with the needed material uploaded and then taken back when she returned so they could be swept and cleaned, ready for her next assignment. She always brought her own civilian cell with her too so she could call Steve. Neither of them liked talking over the secured line, knowing well there was someone listening.

"Where am I headed?" she asked.

"Jordan," he replied dryly. "You're aware of the negotiations we have been working on for a new joint military establishment to be constructed just outside of Ar Ruwayshid. We've been working out the details with their government for two years and have just now over the last couple of months agreed upon the precise location. That's where you'll be headed."

Michelle laid out the map on the table between them, using the instructions from the coordinates in the papers to pinpoint the exact location. She looked up at him, "That's near the border of Iraq."

"Fifty miles to be exact," Bryan replied. "We feel we need to establish a foot hold in that region to secure a stable balance between the two countries."

"You mean to protect the Jordanian border from rebels who've been terrorizing those neighboring cities for the past two years. I was under the impression that the Jordanian government had built a strong hold along the border and had that situation under control since the war ended in Iraq."

"This isn't about rebel attacks, Lieutenant. This is about a force that has been growing under the leadership of an Iraqi extremist who has gained local support and is being supplied ammunition that threatens the border and safety of Jordanian residence. If they continue to grow in numbers and strength, which they have done over the past year, then we feel terrorist attacks that could lead into Jordan, Israel and Syria is imminent. We are simply putting into action the necessary force needed to protect our place in that region of the world. I can't even begin to tell you the importance of this relationship and trust we are launching by this deal with them. But you know that already."

She nodded her understanding, not that she agreed with it, but it wasn't her place to argue the point, nor was it reasonable. There was more to the situation that she knew as a fact but whatever it was, it was above her security clearance. Her job was to supply the agreed upon contracts negotiate the fine print as instructed to their government and return with them signed.

Bryan gathered up his paperwork and put it neatly back into his briefcase.

Michelle stood up with him as he got ready to disembark from the plane. "I'll be in touch. There'll be a car waiting at the airport for you when you land to take you to your hotel."

"A hotel," Michelle repeated, pleasantly surprised. Her usual accommodations were the US Embassy or a Naval base."

"Yes," Bryan said, "I booked you a suite at a nice hotel in Ar Ruwayshid. I figured for your last trip I would make it memorable." He extended his hand to her. "I'm hoping that you will change your mind on the travel portion of your job."

Michelle shook his hand firmly. "Thank you Bryan, but I'm pretty adamant on my decision."

He didn't broach the subject again, wondering if her husband had a part in changing her mind. He didn't know Steve personally, only having met him at social ceremonies and gatherings, but he knew his reputation well. He wasn't the type of personality that he would like to have working for him, not that that situation would ever arise. Bryan knew that when Steve had worked Naval Intelligence, his credentials had been well above his own security clearance. If anything, he would have been working for Steve.

Michelle sat back down after his departure and strapped herself in as the engines began to roar. The single flight attendant on board came by and gave her water, asking if there was anything else she wanted before take off. Michelle declined the offer, looking out the window at the Kualoa Mountains in the distance. She could already feel that separation from her family and she hadn't even left yet Hawaii yet.

She sat back in her seat and closed her eyes while the plane taxied toward the runway. The only pleasing thing about this trip was that it was her last one. She tried to focus on that aspect as they prepared for takeoff.

She suddenly felt an eerie discomfort arise in her as her eyes flew open. She looked back out the window as the plane picked up speed, shooting down the runway. She gripped the arms of the seat, trying to fight off the strong urge to tell them to stop.

She took in a deep breath and let it out slowly, trying to ease herself down, feeling the plane rumbling below her feet. Seconds later all was calm and smooth as they lifted off the ground.

She sat back in her seat and closed her eyes again, thinking about Steve and the girls and what they would be doing at this moment.

The uneasy feeling disappeared and she settled into her fourteen-hour flight to Amman, Jordan.

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Steve sat out on the lanai off he and Michelle's bedroom looking out at the dark ocean in front him. His thoughts on his wife who was out there somewhere in the world, wishing he had her destination. He hated the first twenty-four hours, not knowing where she was. She always called as soon as she could but in those hours before, he had a hard time sleeping, working or thinking about anything else but her safety.

He heard his bedroom door that was ajar creak just slightly from the salt-water build up in the joints as it opened. He looked over his shoulder seeing Elie standing there holding her small rag doll, wearing her purple night gown with her long dark hair partly covering her face. She stared at him timidly, not sure if she was going to be in trouble or not for being up.

If it had been Ellen he might have scolded her and sent her back to bed, reminding her of the punishment that was going to be enforced the next day, but not with Elie, if she were up it was because she was either worried about her Mother, or worried about him. There were no ulterior motives.

He smiled and motioned with his fingers for her to come over.

She smiled happily and ran toward him knowing all was well.

"Hi Daddy," she said sweetly, standing at the side of his chair as he reached over and picked her up under the arms, setting her on his lap.

"Couldn't sleep?" he asked her.

She shook her head as she snuggled up to him, resting her head on his chest.

"How long is ten days for?" she asked, as he pulled her nightgown over her legs to keep her warm.

He put his arms around her small body, holding her in place. "You know how long you have to wait for a new Sponge Bob before another episode comes on? It's that long plus three more days."

She looked up at him concerned, because that was a long time.

The sadness in her eyes over the realization was heartbreaking to him. He knew what she was feeling because he felt it too. He slid a piece of her dark hair behind her ear, smiling down at her. "It'll go by quick. Mom will call everyday and you and Ellen will be able to talk to her on the computer, so it will be like she's right here." He tried to put a silver lining on the depressing subject for her. "And Nana is here, so you'll be busy having fun with her. The time will go by quick."

She wasn't satisfied with that answer, knowing how much they all missed her when she was gone. "Do you feel sad when she goes away too?"

"Yes, it makes me sad when she leaves, but then I'm always so happy when she comes home."

"Me too," she smiled. "I'm happy too when she comes home." She put her doll, Susie, up against his cheek. "Susie gave you a kiss and said don't be sad."

He smiled at the doll. "Thank you Susie. I feel better now." He leaned down and kissed Elie's cheek. "You make me feel better too."

"I do?" she asked, but the look on her face told him how pleased she was to hear that.

"Yes. How could I be sad with the most charming, beautiful and sweetest little girl in the world curled up on my lap."

Elie sat up and wrapped her arms around his neck and squeezed. "I love you, Daddy."

He squeezed her back, wondering how she knew this was exactly what he needed. "I love you too, sweetie."

She curled back up again on his lap. "Tell me the story of when I was born."

He smiled, having told her that story so many times that she knew it better than he did, but somehow she felt comfort in hearing it over and over, so obliged her again. "It was the happiest day of my life. Uncle Danny and I were at the office when we got the call from Mommy that her water broke and you and Ellen where ready to come out. We jumped in Danny's car and raced as fast as we could to the hospital."

"You didn't even stop at red lights, did you?" she knew the answer but liked the way he told it.

"Nope. Danny went so fast the tires were barely touching the ground, and he had the sirens going, honking at people to get out of the way!" He moved his arms wildly, imitating what he would have looked like.

Elie laughed over that part every time, imagining Uncle Danny doing all that stuff while driving. She pictured it like a cartoon.

"And then we got there…" he continued.

"And you ran up the stairs because you didn't want to miss us being born," she finished his sentence.

"Yep, and when I came in the room, Mommy was so happy to see me. I held her hand until you both came out."

"And then the nurse put us in blankets and you got to hold us."

"I got to hold you for the first time."

"And then you cried, didn't you Daddy, because you were so happy, not because you were sad, but because you were happy we were born?"

He looked down at her remembering that day like it was yesterday. "Yes. I cried because I was very happy." He held his hand out. "I used to be able to hold you in one hand."

Elie giggled, never hearing that part before. She took his hand looking at the size of it, amazed that she was that small. She looked up at him. "When I grow up I won't be able to sit on your lap either. I'll be big like you and Mommy."

He cradled her like a baby, making a sad face. "I'll miss that. Times like this are some of my favorite in the whole world." He lifted her up and planted a kiss on her lips. "No matter how big you get Elie, you will always be my little princess and I'll always love you just the same."

Those words were like a security blanket that wrapped around her, making her feel warm and safe. She believed every word he said as if it were the gospel truth, because after all it came from Daddy, and Daddy never lied. Sitting where she was at the moment was the safest place on earth.

He stretched his legs out as she slowly yielded to the late night. He felt content as well. She had managed to fill that void in his heart for the time being that he felt for Michelle. This little person sitting on his lap was a part of both of them, created from that unwavering love that they had for each other. His family was his life, never taking one second with them for granted.

He smiled down at Elie thinking of the baby he and Michelle were trying for. The thought of another set of twins really didn't scare him at all. They would be his kids. He thought of his little spitfire Ellen and how different she was from Elie. He loved them both so much it was overwhelming sometimes the joy he would feel when they would run to him as he came through the front door after work. It was his favorite part of the day, rushing home to be with the people who loved him just as much. Even the baby they were trying for had already found a place in his heart.

He was a lucky man, he thought proudly, the luckiest guy in the world.