'Cathy Chandler! I am delighted to see you and even more delighted that you could join us tonight.'

'Governor, thank you for inviting me.'

'You used to call me Howie.' Catherine looked up and down at the man before her. When she had known him before, he was an intense young man in his mid twenties, a few years older than her. He had come to Intern at her father's law firm. Now, the Governor was a portly, balding, grey- haired senior, at the pinnacle of his career. She laughed lightly at the notion that he could ever be called by that childish name again.

'I called you that when you were Howie. Now, you are the Governor. My congratulations to you.'

'Let's try to get a few minutes to talk tonight. I ….'

The lineup was getting longer by the minute. Howard Smirconish, the recently elected Governor of the state was intent on making contact with Catherine. They had a history together and he was anxious to hear about her life experience. He knew that lingering too long with any one person would create a back log, he reluctantly let go of her hand. A shrug indicated his disappointment before he turned to smile at the handsome man who was Catherine's son.

'Good to meet you Jacob. I guess you know that I knew your mother way back when?'

'I didn't until recently, Sir, but she was looking forward to seeing you. And may I present my wife, Cathy Wells.'

Cathy was hard pressed not to curtsey. It felt like a regal ball. She smiled and held out her hand.

'Pleased to meet you Governor.'

And so it went down the line. The VIP's who were shaking hands didn't always seem happy, but they smiled and did everything to coax their constituents into parting with some cash to support the 'Stop Hunger!' Charity. More than one person might have thought that the cost of the evening's food would feed several children for days, weeks even, but the idea of dressing up and getting together was too good to miss. It gave the appearance of unity and community service on an important issue.

Jacob kept a watchful eye on his mother as she made her way. It had been his intention to introduce her, but she would get ahead of him. Somehow she seemed to manage. He tried hard not to forget that this was her world.

The tall charismatic man who had asked about her weeks before stood in line just in front of Senator Joe. His eyes lit up when Catherine approached.

'Cathy, Cathy….you are a wonderful sight. I never thought I would see you again.' He grabbed her hand in both of his and leaned forward to kiss her cheek.

'Ronan. You have not changed a bit. If anything you look more distinguished.'

'I haven't been Ronan for awhile. That changed after Dad died. I wanted to be called Patrick. Are you Catherine now too?'

Jacob saw his mother nod. She seemed moved by this encounter.

'Can we talk later. I'll find you. We have so much to catch up on.'

'Yes, we do. I'd like that.'

'May I present my wife, Gabriella. This is Catherine Chandler Dear. She's an old friend from school.' The statement was not a true representation of their long relationship. Catherine showed no surprise at the brevity of the description. In a moment of insight, she realized that his wife had issues. The hand extended by the woman was limp and almost insulting. She was a dark haired, exotic beauty whose full figure was wrapped in an almost embarrassingly tight white sheath. Her large breasts threatened to burst out of the bodice any moment. The red lips pouted good evening. Clearly she was not enjoying herself.

'Pleasure.'

'Likewise.'

Catherine moved on to Joe's warm hug. 'How are you Cathy. I wish I could see more of you.'

'You know where I am.'

'And you know where I am too. Before you ask, Diana is here. She is sitting inside already. You know how much she hates these lineups. I'll see you later. We'll be sitting together.'

Catherine nodded and moved on.

Jacob's encounter with the Attorney General was warm. He seemed to want to say more but turned politely, to shake hands with Cathy at Jacob's introduction. Gabriella DelCassian had a provocative little smile for Jacob. He ignored it, introduced his wife and continued to the next person. She had an aura around her which felt uncomfortable and her blatant sexuality was unsettling. Jacob had worn gloves to minimize his contact with people. Even through the material he felt a sense of discomfort. The energy between the AG and his wife was almost nonexistent.

John Civco and Oats were located near the end of the line. Oats was only too happy to leave the handshaking duties and escort Catherine to a nearby chair. She was charmed by his solicitous behavior.

'Thank you Kurt. I wouldn't mind a glass of water.'

Jacob stared at the retreating back of his boss. His look was puzzled. Does everyone love my mother?, he wondered. When Oats returned, clearly determined to stay with Catherine, Jacob and Cathy wandered off to say hello to a few friends of their own from the office. Hardly anyone recognized the woman Cathy had become. Her weight loss and fancy dress may have changed some aspects of her appearance but she was also softer, less pushy than she had been as Oats secretary. A few of her former colleagues were still cool towards her but she held her own. What had made her retreat into herself during those first years at the PD's office was more fear around her mother's positive HIV status than being a snob. Cathy was a caring, giving person once she let down her guard.

Many of those who challenged her then were softened by the detailed and emotional blog she kept online during Mea's first liver crisis. It was that subject which many asked her about. She was happy to report that the little girl was doing well. Cathy didn't want to admit to herself how much she dreaded 'making nice' with people who had talked about her behind her back all the time. She owned some of the responsibility but was determined not to hold back on opportunities to show another side of herself. With the ice broken early, she was able to move around with and without Jacob. He kept a watchful eye on his mother but Oats seemed to have things well in hand.


The Governor's ball was full of exciting and interesting people but the biggest attraction was the fund raising efforts. There was a silent auction in another room. Everywhere there was someone selling tickets for raffles of various donated gifts. It was all designed to find ways for those in attendance to spend money. Jacob had already set out his budget for the evening. He had no need of anything more but looked around politely.

Dinner was served promptly at 7 p.m. As the host indicated it was to be a full night of activities. He wanted to save a good portion for dancing. The food was not heavy. It was served banquet style with course after course of snippets. Jacob, who was a hearty eater found the tediousness of it tiring. His eyes scanned the room often picking up impressions here and there. Once or twice he caught sight of the Attorney General whose animated features lit up his face, unless his wife was at his side. Gabriella continued to look as if the whole event was a bore.

Once or twice, he also caught his mother glancing in their direction. She had a worried look. Clearly Patrick DelCassian held some special place in her heart. Jacob knew some of his mother's life but most of his impressions came from Vincent whose view of Catherine was limited to what he saw of her, mostly in the tunnels, during their early relationship. She had been a moneyed socialite, enjoying the company of the rich and famous until her slashing accident. That event changed her whole life and way of thinking.

After the dinner mercifully ended and the speeches began, Jacob noticed that the Attorney General and his wife had disappeared. He gave it no further thought. Many dignitaries were compelled to attend several events in a single night. Putting in an appearance, at the very least, was mandatory for this event. The co-sponsors along with the Governor were members of the legal profession. As the time wore on Jacob who had a surprise for his wife, became increasingly nervous. Not one to second guess himself, he suddenly wondered if he had lost his mind.

The music for the evening was provided by a famous New York band. The singers were several graduating students from the Arts schools across the city. For many it would be a big opportunity to showcase their talents. Each had a skill set and repertoire of songs which they could sing on request. As part of the charity, attendees were offered an opportunity to pay for the privilege of requesting a song, to be performed in honour of the couple. A small portion of the donation would assist the student in managing school fees or loans. Jacob had no idea when his song would be announced. He had pre-ordered something for his wife. At the time he thought it might be a foolish thing to make them stand out in a crowd. After watching Cathy walk down the stairs he felt more than ever that she was meant to be honoured. He still could not get over how ethereal she looked. He felt as if time stood stil, the moment he saw her. Justified or not, he was getting more nervous by the minute.

Catherine, with Oats' kind assistance circled the room off and on saying hello to colleagues and friends from her early years. Her eyes sparkled and a ready smile lit up her face when memory returned and small things she thought forgotten were readily available. Much of the evening was about her own recovery. She hoped to recapture the lost bits and pieces of her former life, which made her who she was. She was always cognizant of her missing husband but knew that his energy lingered close by. This event would have been a challenge for both of them.

'Catherine, I have been looking for you.' She turned to see Patrick at her side.

'I thought you had gone.'

'Gabriella had a migraine. She chose to go home. I am co hosting this event. I thought I should stay.'

'Too bad about your wife. Let's find a seat and catch up.' Catherine smiled at Oats. 'Thank you Kurt. I will be back' she said disengaging her arm.

Oats face was a study in consternation but he bowed out graciously, deferring to the superiority of a shared history. He went to sit with Diana, whose husband was also working the room.

'Your son has a bright future in his department.'

'I just want him to be happy Patrick. He is smart, even if I do say so myself. I take no credit for the man he has become. He was raised entirely by his father and grandfather.'

'Quite a remarkable story! He inherited an exceptional gene pool. 'Don't forget I knew you and your parents.' Patrick smiled and moved away from the more crowded area to another spot where they could talk. 'Where is your husband, or shouldn't I ask?'

'We adopted two girls who were left on the street to die. He is babysitting tonight.'

'Is there no end to your surprises Catherine? Where do you get the stamina?'

'Well, you said you knew my parents…. I have been blessed. It is as simple as that. Tell me about your father.'

'He died some years ago. I was still in private practice as he wanted. After his death, I moved into government and here I am.'

'Patrick, we were two lonely kids growing up. Both of us without mothers, both of us with busy working fathers. I was so glad to have your friendship.' Catherine placed a delicate hand on his arm. It was not meant to be provocative. Patrick covered it with his own and smiled at her.

'Catherine you meant the world to me.'

There was a moment of tenderness shared between old friends. Patrick's mood changed and he backed away slightly when Catherine asked about Gabriella.

'She's…she's different. We met in Brazil. You know my Dad loved to play Polo. Her father and mine were …..opponents on the playing field.'

'Patrick, you don't have to share this with me if it is painful. I asked because…I am interested in you.'

'Catherine our story is long and complex. I would love to share it with you. Now is not the time and place but I hope you will meet with me soon. Can we have a long lunch or late meal someday soon? I very much want to hear your story too.'

Many people saw when DelCassian leaned over to plant a soft kiss on her cheek. From a distance the kiss might have seemed quite intimate. When he stood up, his eyes searched for Oats, indicating an end to any further confidences. Jacob sensing something also approached his mother.

'Everything alright Mama?'

'Yes of course. It is just hard for me to catch up with everyone so quickly. Patrick and I go way back.'

Jacob offered his arm to Catherine and returned her to the table. The AG disappeared almost as quickly as he had reappeared.


The announcement of the 'song and dance request' part of the evening activity was about to begin. The group at the table sat and waited to hear what song the band would play first.

'Ladies and gentlemen, if I could have your attention for a moment' he intoned. 'Our band will intersperse requests with their own choices. Tonight we will start with an audience request from...…' He drew out the suspense while opening a white envelope. '......Jacob Wells for his bride Cathy. He has asked for a song originally sung by Josh Groban, performed tonight by Elizondo Batta. We will ask Jacob Wells and his wife to come out on the floor.'

Cathy had her hand over her mouth. She was shocked that Jacob had made such a public statement. It seemed so out of character. She loved him for it but was feeling shy and embarrassed to stand in the middle of a room of hundreds of people. Would they have to dance? She dreaded the next words once the applause died down.

'We thank you for your contribution. Your generous donation will help the students of one school to receive breakfasts for one month. We will also ask you to start the dance.'

'Jacob…what on earth?' Cathy whispered. She got into position hoping it was something familiar.

At the introductory notes, it was clear that Jacob had chosen a waltz. The song was not sung in English but the melody was beautiful. The work, which the pair had put into their wedding dance, came in handy. They twirled and circled the floor, all shyness forgotten. No one wanted to interrupt them as they moved about. Their dancing was as beautiful as the couple themselves. Catheirne watched with pride as Jacob swung Cathy around in a beautiful pirouette. The crowd murmured. At the end, the applause was thunderous.

'What did that song mean Jacob. It wasn't in English' she said, breathless with the exertion.'

'Gira Con Me Questa Notte.' At her puzzled look, 'You Rock my World!'

'Oh Jacob, I have never heard you talk like that. Really?'

'Yes. Really.' He kissed her hand to further applause.


Catherine watched her son and daughter-in-law dance with exquisite precision. She was immediately reminded of their wedding day and how graceful they were during the first dance. She and Vincent had also had a chance to be in each others arms again. He had held her tightly and twirled her around, very gently at first, then with increasing passion as he gauged her tolerance level. She sat wistfully wishing for a chance to let the music fill her. Oats had been kind enough to offer but she declined, citing her awkwardness with anyone but her husband. Jacob and Cathy stayed out on the floor. It was obvious that they were enjoying themselves immensely.

"Madame, if I may, would you care to dance?'

'Catherine hardly dared turn around. She knew that voice and could sense her husband's presence. She could not imagine how Vincent would look. Of late he had taken more steps to reveal himself in very limited public places, but he was still tentative. Originally when she decided to attend the night's festivities, she harboured a faint hope that he might join her at some point but to know he was truly here left her breathless.

Slowly she turned around. Her smile was mixed with some trepidation.

Vincent looked magnificent in a dark long coated tuxedo, his golden hair resting lightly on his shoulders. Clearly Sue had a hand in it glorious shine. He wore a loose tie at his neck. At the most challenging part of his face he seemed to have a prosthesis of some type. An electric smile lit up her face, at the twinkle in his eye.

'Come my love. I believe this dance is ours.'

Catherine placed her hand in the outstretched gloved one and rose to find herself wrapped in the loving arms of her husband. Even without the slightly altered face, Vincent would have stood out in a crowd. His height, grace, countenance and power all spoke of majesty. Oblivious to all, the happy couple joined their son and daughter-in-law on the dance floor. Catherine knew her feet never touched the ground.

After a short spurt of dances, they moved away to a corner to talk. Catherine touched the cheek of her husband, a question in her eyes.

'You have worn a mask many times to protect me. Now I wear one to protect you.'

'But how Vincent? It looks so real.'

'I hate to think about John Pater at all, but if I must then I acknowledge that he was a master of disguise. I wanted nothing from him except this skill, if it allows me to be with you.'

'You could have shared this with me.'

'I could have my love, but I need to feel comfortable with this even before I attempt to show myself to the world above. I fear you would not be honest with me.'

Catherine didn't reply. In truth she would have said yes to almost anything if it meant having her husband with her. Vincent knew her so well. She placed a hand on his arm.

The evening was warm. They moved out to a balcony where they could both observe the stars twinkling.

'How many times have we stood and looked out and tried to grasp the meaning of the universe in its glory? I have never wished to fly away to the moon or see anything beyond what I see in your eyes when you look at me.'

'Do you want to go home now Catherine?'

'Yes, I think I do.'