Elizabeth woke with a start, sitting up in bed reality hit her. It wasn't a bad dream her parents really are gone. Rolling over she watched her sleeping husband for a few minutes before getting up. She loved this man with all her heart, he was her rock. Placing a gentle kiss on his cheek, she got up.
Grabbing her robe she quietly headed downstairs. Looking down the hall she noticed that the all three kids bedroom door's were still closed indicating they were not yet up. Grabbing a cup out of the cabinet she poured herself a cup of coffee, thankful that Henry always set the timer for the coffee pot before he went to bed. Walking through the kitchen she grabbed a blanket off the back of the couch before heading outside. A blast of cold air made her shiver, as she sat down on the swing. Pulling the blanket tightly around her body, she brought her knees up to her chest holding tightly onto her coffee cup. She wasn't ready to face what this day would bring but was grateful that her husband and daughter would be there for her.
Henry woke hoping to find his wife still snuggled next to him, but he found an empty bed instead. Getting up he went in search of his wife. Walking down the stairs and into the kitchen, he saw an empty coffee cup on the counter next to the coffee pot, along with a carton of half and half. Fixing himself a cup of coffee he walked toward the living room. Looking around he noticed the French doors to the back yard was open slightly. Opening the door he saw her sitting on the swing, staring off into space. She loved that swing it had been a Mother's day gift from Henry and the kids a few years back. She even begged Henry to let her bring it when they moved from the farm into the city.
Walking outside he watched her sad and withdrawn face; it broke his heart.
Looking up she gave him a small sad smile.
"Can I join you?" He asked her.
Shaking her head yes he sat down next to her pulling the blanket so that it covered both of them.
"How long have you been out here?" He asked.
"Not very long," Her sad voice responded.
Sitting there a while longer both lost in their sorrow neither saying a word.
"Mom, Dad?" They heard Stevie call out to them through the half open door.
"Out here Stevie," Henry called to his oldest daughter.
"Hey what are you two doing out here? It's freezing," She asked her parents.
"Getting some fresh air," her dad looked over at this wife. "Are Jason and Ali up? He asked her.
"Yes, they were coming down when I came outside." She told him.
"Let's go make breakfast," Henry got up putting his arm around his daughter's shoulder guiding her toward the house.
"You coming?" He called back over his shoulder to his wife.
"In a minute," Elizabeth's voice low she just wanted a few minutes to herself.
"Okay, I'm making pancakes." He was trying to entice her inside.
Henry and Stevie stepped back inside the door, not completely closing it behind them. Alison and Jason sat at the kitchen table both preoccupied.
"I'm making pancakes," Henry called to them. "Who wants some?"
"No thanks, dad," Both kids called back.
"Come on, you have to eat," Henry grabbed the pancake mix out of the cabinet and started mixing the ingredients.
"Fine," They both responded.
"Noodle, will you set the table?" Henry was trying to keep the day as normal as possible.
"Jason, grab the orange juice and milk please." Henry asked his youngest child.
Jason placed the milk and orange juice on the table without saying a word.
"Is mom eating?" Alison asked setting the table.
"Set her a place, ok." Henry told his daughter.
"Okay" She said.
Henry put the pancakes, syrup and butter on the table calling to the kids
"Pancakes are ready. "
Sitting down at the table, the kids waited for their dad to sit down, but instead he walked over to the open door. Looking out he noticed his wife, was no longer sitting on the swing. She was now standing in the middle of the back yard with her back to him. He could see her body shaking but wasn't sure if it was from the cold or if she was crying again. He decided to walk out and check on her, coming up from behind her he put his arms around her. They stood quietly in the middle of the yard for a few minutes before she turned and looked at him. He could see the fresh tears that had started to fall again he brushed one off her cheek, then pulled her into a hug resting his chin on top of her head.
"Come on, let's go inside before the kids eat all the pancakes," He pulled away just a bit looking down at her.
Wrapping his arm around her waist he gently guided her inside the house closing the door behind them.
Sitting down at the table she put a two pancakes on her plate, refilling her coffee cup he sat it down in front of her. He was relieved to see her take a few bites of her pancakes.
Henry got himself another cup of coffee before he sat down to eat with his family. Everyone sat in silence, picking at their food.
"Hey guys mom and I have to head to Virginia after breakfast." Henry broke the silence.
"I still want to go dad," Alison spoke up.
Henry looked over at Elizabeth waiting for her to give her approval or disapproval, shaking her head yes.
"Okay Noodle, be ready in an hour," He told her.
Finishing her pancakes Alison got up and headed upstairs to get ready.
"Stevie, do you mind hanging out with Jason today?" Her dad asked.
"No, how about we go to a movie we can see whatever you want?" She asked her brother.
"I don't really feel like going to a movie," He told her.
"Okay then we will hang out here and play video games all day." Stevie gave her brother a small smile.
Getting up from the table Henry put his plate in the sink before going out to talk to Fred Cole, who was standing just on the other side of the front door.
Opening the door he spoke to the detail leader.
"Fred, we will be ready to head out to Virginia within the hour. Our first stop will be Liz's parent's house, you have the address right?" He asked him.
"We have everything under control sir, you just take care of your wife." Fred Cole gave him a sad smile.
"Thanks Fred," Henry went back inside closing the door behind him and head upstairs.
"Let's clean up this mess. I am so going to kick your butt at the Mortal Combat." Stevie got up from the table picking up her dishes she went over to the dishwasher.
"I don't think so," Jason got up and started loading the dishwasher.
Henry walked in the bedroom to find his wife sitting on the bench in front of her vanity staring off into space.
"Honey," he called out to her.
"What...what," she jumped when he called to her.
"You okay?" He asked.
Shaking her head no she looked down at her hands.
Walking over to her he knelt down in front of her, holding on to her hands.
"We have to leave shortly so you need to finish getting ready," He told her gently.
Elizabeth couldn't make her body move. All she wanted to do was crawl back into bed and cry. She knew what she needed to do but she just couldn't maker herself get up. Sitting there a little longer, she finally got up and went to her closet. Grabbing a pair of jeans of the hanger, she went to Henry's dresser and took out her favorite sweatshirt. Taking her tennis shoes off the shoe rack she headed downstairs.
Henry stepped out from the bathroom, just as his wife was walking out the door. He quickly finished getting ready, grabbing his shoes he went in search of his daughter.
"Noodle we need to leave, let's go." He called out to his daughter getting no response he walked toward her room.
Her door half opened he looked in and could see her standing in the middle of the room. Opening the door he stood in front of her, putting his finger on her chin he tilted it up toward him.
"What's wrong sweetie?" He gentle asked her.
"I want to go with you but what if I can't be strong for mom? What if I start crying and then she does? She needs us to be strong for her." Alison's had a hard time catching her breath.
Taking her hand he walked her over to her bed sitting down he pulled her onto his lap. "Listen to me Noodle," He paused making sure she was listening. "Mom doesn't expect you to be strong. It's okay for you to cry, to be sad and even angry." He encouraged her, "Mom wants you to be there with us. She needs us." He gave her a sad smile.
Shaking her head she gave her dad a kiss on his cheek, jumping up she headed downstairs. Henry followed Alison down the stairs, he knew it was going to be a long day. Just keep breathing he told himself, walking into the kitchen he found his travel mug was already filled with coffee. Looking over at his wife he gave her a smile.
"Ready," Henry asked her.
Shaking her head no she grabbed her purse and headed for the front door. Alison had already gone out and gotten in the waiting SUV. Henry followed her out calling to Jason and Stevie they were leaving.
"I'm sorry for your loss ma'am," Fred told her softly placing his hand on her arm.
"Thank you" She answered, her voice breaking.
Shutting the door behind them the car pulled away from the curb, she took a deep breath letting it out slowly. She knew this was just the beginning of one of the hardest weeks of her life. Staring out the window she watched as the city grew farther away. Henry held tightly onto her hand sitting quietly.
The two hour trip felt like forever, looking over her shoulder Elizabeth watched daughter's sleeping form in the seat behind them. At the ripe age of 16 Alison McCord was wise beyond her years. She was tender-hearted wearing her feelings on her sleeve. She had always been their sensitive child getting her feeling hurt easily, always taking to heart others feelings. Elizabeth laid her head on Henry's shoulder.
Elizabeth felt the road below her change, looking up she knew what that change indicated - they had turned onto the gravel road that lead straight up to her parent's house. She had been down this road many times and knew it by heart. It was the road where she rode her bike as a young girl, and where she learned to drive as a teenager. As the house came into view, her demeanor changed - her body stiffened, breathing became labored, heart began to beat rapidly, and her face turned a ghostly shade of white. Liz grabbed tighter on to her husbands hand. Henry felt the tight on his hand get tighter. Looking over at his wife his heart dropped when he saw the look on his wife's face. It scared him.
"Liz sweetie, breath, take a slow deep breath, babe." He instructed her. "Come on you can do it. Slow your breathing down." His voice was calm. Knocking on the window he got Fred's attention.
"We need to pull over now," He told Fred with urgency.
"Stop the car," Fred instructed the agent driving.
Pulling over Elizabeth jumped out without even waiting for Fred to open the door. Running down the drive she didn't get far before she lost what little bit she had eaten that morning. Her body shook, feeling as though her legs were going to give out she sat down on the gravel. Feeling like she couldn't breathing she tried to slow her breathing.
Henry jumped out, running after her. He caught up, rubbing her back while he patiently waited for her to finished. Sitting down next to her he remained quiet. Although she had been crying off and on since yesterday he wondered how long it would be until it really hit her.
Fred walked up to them handing her a bottle of water and some napkins then went back to his post.
The sudden halting of the car woke Alison from her sleep sitting straight up she saw her mom jump out of the car and race up the drive way with her dad following close behind her. She could see them up ahead sitting on the ground and her dad rubbing her mother's back. Fred stood just at the edge of SUV's door which was still opened, Alison jumped over the seat and stood just outside the door, about to take off running toward her parents when Fred stopped her.
"She's okay," He told the scared girl. "Give them a minute."
Shaking her head Alison sat back down on the edge of the seat her parents just vacated.
Rubbing his wife's back he gave her a few minutes to gather her thoughts before he spoke.
"You okay, babe?" He asked her.
"I don't think I can do this, its too hard. I thought I was ready but I'm not." Her voice cracked.
"We will do it together. I've got your back." He encouraged.
A few more minutes passed before he stood up helping her to her feet, they started the short journey back to the car walking hand in hand. Alison jumped out of the car and ran to her parents, wrapping her arm's tightly around both their waist. Standing their a few more moments the three of them walked back and got into the waiting SUV.
Pulling up in front of her parents house Elizabeth's heart started beating faster. Closing her eyes she prayed this had all been a bad dream - she wanted nothing more than for her parents to come walking out of the house to greet them. Opening her eyes she was sent back to reality when she looked at the silent house. Remaining in the SUV her whole body shook, she couldn't make it stop. Henry moved closer to her, putting his arm around her shoulder he pulled her in close whispering into her ear.
"We will do this together babe. I am right here. I love you."
Giving him a sad smile she opened the door and got out, slowing walking up to the house. Henry stayed close to her. Stopping she needed a moment to collect her thoughts Henry's arm still tightly wrapped protectively around her.
Alison exited the car walking up toward the house she stopped at the old oak tree in the front yard. Sitting down on the swing that was attached to it. She and her siblings had spent many years pushing each other on the swing. Her grandfather had built it for her mother on her fifth birthday. She loved hearing the story of how her grandfather cut down an old tree in the back of the house and used the wood to make the swing. Sitting there overwhelming sadness took over.
Alison waited for her parents to make their way up to the front door of the house. Jumped off the swing she joined them as they entered the eerily quiet house. Looking around the still house Elizabeth felt as though her whole world was crashing in on her, her parents were gone. The house which was once filled with love, and laughter was now silent. No longer able to stand there she turned and ran from the house.
Alison stood in the middle of the living room, overwhelmed by the loss of her grandparents - she sat down on the floor and cried.
Henry stood in the open doorway - one eye on the distant shape of his wife and one eye on his sobbing daughter. Henry was torn between comforting his daughter or his wife. Walking over to his daughter he put his arms around her and rocked her as she cried. After a few minutes she calmed down and looking up at her dad quietly spoke.
"Go to mom."
Henry walked out the door quickly in search of his wife, looking around the yard he didn't see her. Walking toward the barn he noticed the door was open. Making his way inside he saw that her saddle and blanket were not sitting on the saddle rack. Looking down the barn he noticed that Shady's stall door was sitting wide opened. Approaching the stall he noticed the horse was no there. He worried that as upset as she was maybe she shouldn't be out there alone. But he knew his wife, she needed this time alone to come to terms with this tremendous loss. He also knew she grown up around horses and she knew to be careful. Besides she was on Shady. She loved that horse and he loved her. Her parents had gotten him for the grandkids to ride when they came to visit but he ended up being Elizabeth's horse. He decided to give her some time for her self. Heading back into the house he went in search of the papers that brought him to the house in the first place.
Alison sat on the floor a few more minutes wiping the tears away from her eyes. She wanted to be a help to her parents not one more thing for them to worry about. Getting up she headed toward her grandparents bedroom. Walking into the room she could smell her grandmothers perfume, she always smelled so good. Opening the closet door, she turned on the light, going to her grandfather's side first. She looked through the suites hanging in the closet she finding the black suite one. Next she pulled out one of his white dress shirts walking over she laid it on the bed. Now she needed to find a tie that would match - he wouldn't be grandpa without a tie on. Every time she had ever seen him dressed up he always wore a tie. Walking back into the closet she pulled out the tie rack that hung on the wall. She knew exactly which one she wanted, it was a blue paisley one they had given him for his birthday a few years back - it was also the one he wore to her mothers swearing ceremony. Backing out of closet she laid the tie down beside the rest of the clothes. Looking up she was glad to see her dad standing in the doorway of the bedroom.
"Hey Noodle, you doing ok?" He asked softly.
Shaking her head no, she ran over to him embracing him in a hug.
"Want some help?" He whispered in her ear.
Shaking her head yes she took a step back from her dad and showed him what she already had picked out.
"You are doing a good job Noodle." He encouraged her.
"Dad, can you get the you know...boxers out of grandpa's dresser?" She asked embarrassed.
Giving her a wink he walked over and grabbed the boxers and a pair of socks out of his father in law's dresser drawer. He placed the items on the bed next the rest of the stuff.
"We need to find something to put the stuff in so we can take it to the funeral home later." He told her.
"Okay I will grab a bag out of the hall closet," She walked out of the room, and came right back.
"Now I have to do grandma's stuff," she walked over to her grandma's side of the closet. Stopping at the door, she turned around and looked at her dad.
"Where's mom?" She asked.
"She went for a ride," he hoped she would have been back by now.
"I still have to do grandma's clothes and I thought she would want help." Alison told her dad.
"She should be back soon. Then you two can do it together." He prayed his wife would be up to it.
"Why don't you take a break until mom gets back?" He knew this was hard on the young girl.
Alison and Henry walked out of Scott and Donnas' bedroom shutting the door behind them. Deciding maybe going outside would help calm her she sat down on the front steps to wait for her mom to return.
Henry headed for her grandfather's office, opening the door, the smell of Scott's favorite cigar hit him as he walked into the room. Walking across the room he sat down at the big wooden desk. Papers were stacked neatly in the middle of the desk, a computer sat on the corner of the desk. Bumping the mouse the computer came to life. A document Scott had been working on still open on the screen. Henry pulled the desk drawer open feeling inside he found the envelope taped to the top of the drawer. Opening the envelope he dumped the contents into his hand. Scott had pulled Henry aside a few years ago after a medical scare and had a long talk with him. He knew that neither Elizabeth or his wife would be in any shape to deal with anything if god forbid some had happen to him. In the past 25 years Elizabeth and Henry had been married he had become like a son to Scott and his wife, Donna. Scott knew he could trust Henry would take care of all the details.
Walking across the room he opened the wooden closet doors and bending down he found the safe hidden behind an empty box. Looking at the key his hands began to shake he opened the safe. He pulled the large vanilla envelope out of the safe. He went and sat back down at the desk. He sat quietly for a few moments before he opened it. Pulling the continents out he noticed the first thing on top was the couple's will, along with a notebook. Opening the notebook he saw that it listed the name and number of the funeral home, insurance agent, ranch and stable hands. Other contents also included the deed to the house, title to the cars, insurance policies and all necessary information in the event of death. A white envelope with Elizabeth's name fell out also, picking it up he stuck it in his jacket pocket. He would wait until it was just the two of them and give it to her. Putting all the papers back into the envelope he pulled out his wallet. Taking out the card for the medical examiner, picking up the house phone he dialed the number.
"Bob McLaughlin," The man answered the phone.
"Bob this is Henry McCord - Scott and Donna Falkner's son in law, we spoke yesterday." Henry didn't know if he would remember him.
"Yes sir," Bob responded.
"We are at the Falkner's home and I have found the name and number of the funeral home they would like for us to use." He told the man on the other end of the phone.
"The name of the funeral home is Teague Funeral Home in Charlottesville, their phone number is (434) 977-0005." Henry gave him all the needed information. "I will be coming by a little later to identify the remains," he told Bob. "I will be there in the next couple of hours,"
"Okay I will go ahead and set up a time for the funeral home to pick up the remains." Bob explained to him.
"Thank you," Henry hung up.
Finding the number for funeral home, he dialed the number. Speaking with the funeral director he set a time for him and Elizabeth to meet with the man so they could take care of all the necessary arrangement.
Henry went out in search of his wife, he had hoped she had returned from her ride. Walking toward the barn he saw her closing the stall door he waited for her at the door.
"Hi there," His voice was quiet.
"Hi," her voice barely audible.
"Did you have a good ride?" They started walking toward the house.
Shaking her head yes she pulled him toward the big oak tree with the swing. Sitting down on the swing, he started to push her.
"Alison got your dad's favorite black suite with a nice white shirt out of the closet - she even picked out his favorite blue tie. It's was the one the wore to your swearing in ceremony. We also found him a tee-shirt, and black socks. She had me get the boxers out of the drawer. But she wants you to help pick out something for your mom to wear, if your up to it." He told her.
Shaking her head yes she sat quietly on the swing and let him continue to push her.
"I called and made an appointment for us to go to the funeral home and make the arrangements. We have to be there at three." He wasn't sure of how much she was actually listening to him.
Walking up from around the side of the house Alison stood watching her parents. Although sometimes they embarrassed her with their PDA, she marveled at the fact that they still loved each other. They were a strong unit through the good and the bad. Her parents were actually still together after 25 years and that was a rarity now days. Standing there a few more minutes she walked up to them, smiling a shy smile at them. Stopping the swing Henry took her hand pulling her up from the swing.
"We need to finish getting the clothes together. I have to make a stop before we go to the funeral home." Henry told them.
Walking up to the house, Henry stopped to talk to Fred, while Elizabeth and Alison went inside making their way to the bedroom.
Her hands shaking Elizabeth opened the closet door, turning on the light. Going over to her mother's side of the large closet she started going through the dresses hanging inside. Oh momma I miss you so much already she thought to herself.
"We will do this together. I love you mom." Alison walked up to her mom.
"I love you too, Noodle," Elizabeth struggled to keep it together.
After pulling out several dresses, they finally decided upon a simple blue dress, that Elizabeth had seen her mother on many special occasions. She laid the dress out on the bed, while gathering a pair of shoes, hose, and necessities. She placed the items into the bag along side her fathers stuff, leaving the dress laying next to his suit. Elizabeth walked over to her mother's dresser pulling down her mother's jewelry box, looking through contents. Finally choosing her mothers favorite cross necklace, and diamond stud earrings she placed them in a small pouch. Her emotions overtaking she laid down on her parents bed dropping the pouch. She had tried to be so strong not wanting to upset or worry Alison or Henry. Elizabeth let out a loud sob pulling her mother's pillow close to her body and holding onto it tightly. Her body shaking uncontrollably sobbing she began having a hard time catching her breath. Alison couldn't move. Seeing her mom like this scared her - she had never seen her like this. Running out of the room she went in search of her dad, rounding the corner she found her dad walking toward the bedroom.
"Mom," was all Alison could get out.
Hurrying his pace Henry entered his in law's bedroom to find his wife laying on the bed shaking. Walking over to the bed he laid down beside her. Pulling her close he wrapped his arms around her and held onto her.
"Oh babe, I am so sorry," Henry cooed in his wife's ear. "I'm right her, I love you Liz."
Henry hoped that the calming sound of his voice would help to calm down. Rubbing up and down her arm, she started to relax after a few more minutes.
"Henry," her voice soft, "I thought I could do this," looking around she waved her hand around. "But I can't I look around this room and," her voice faded. "I miss them so much, one minute I'm angry, the next I'm sad, I would give anything to have them back."
"Honey, it's called grief. You cant control it. All you can do is work through it. You have to give yourself time. You can't rush it. We will do it together." Taking a hold of her hand he helped her into a sitting position.
"I love you, Henry McCord. Thank you for loving me." She gave him a small smile.
"Always and forever," Was his simple reply.
Alison McCord watched her parents from the doorway of the bedroom, backing out slowly she closed the door giving them privacy. Her dad seemed to know exactly what her mother needed and it was him. Walking back downstairs she stood at the front door of the house watching the approaching car's wondering if her mom was up for well meaning visitor's.
Helping her up off the bed they walked toward the closed bedroom door, looking out the window she saw the car coming up the drive way. She recognized the car it was here parents best friends Paul and Sally Hoyle. Knowing they would have to be cleared by her detail she was relieved to have a few minutes to pull herself together. Turning around she went into the bathroom across the hall and splashed some water on her face. Coming back out Henry stood there waiting for her. Hand in hand they went down to meet their pending company stopping at the bottom of the stairs he stopped turning to face her.
"Are you ready for this?" He asked his wife.
"As long as you are right beside me I can do anything." She smiled at him.
Walking outside they waited for the couple to finish with the detail. Once they finished Elizabeth welcomed a big hug from Sally.
"Liz, I am so sorry about your parents," Sally told her.
"Thank you," Elizabeth squeezed Sally's hand.
"Can you guys get the food out of the car please?" Sally turned and faced Henry and Paul.
Without saying a word the two men walked toward car grabbing the food following the women into the house.
"You didn't have to do this," Elizabeth told Sally.
"You know me when tragedy hits I cook." She gave her small smile. "Your parents were our best friends. I can't believe they are gone." Tear's filled her eyes. "How are you doing sweetie?"
Elizabeth and Sally walked into the living room sitting down on the couch.
"I have my moments," Elizabeth responded.
"How are the kids taking the news." Sally asked her
"Hard. Alison is outside somewhere probably in the barn with Shady. Jason and Stevie stayed in DC." Elizabeth explained to her.
Both ladies sat quietly for a few minutes.
Henry and Paul put what food needed away, making their way back toward the living room Henry stopped Scott.
"I hate to ask you this but I have to run into town - I have to go to the coroner's office and positivity identify the bodies. Do you think you could go with me?" Henry asked Paul, "I don't want Liz have to do it, and I could use the company."
"Of course. When do you want to go?" He put his arm on Henry's shoulder.
"Let's go check on the ladies then maybe we can sneak out for a little bit." Henry started walking toward the living room.
"Were you out with them the night they died?" Elizabeth after a few minutes.
Not able to speak Sally shook her head yes, after a few minutes she finally spoke. "We met your parents along with Bob and Patty Moore for dinner at Tonys. We were celebrating Patty's 60th birthday. Your dad was in rare form talking about how proud he was of you, and how he had the smartest grandchildren in Washington DC. They were looking forward to coming up to visit you guys in a couple of weeks. They seemed so happy." She paused giving Elizabeth time to comprehend what she was saying.
Elizabeth couldn't control her emotions hearing about her parents last night. Her shoulders shaking with grief, tears were streaming down her already wet cheeks.
Paul and Henry stood listening to Sally recall the last time they saw their best friends alive, both men had tears in their eyes.
Sally did her best to console Elizabeth but it was Henry she wanted. Getting up she rushed over to her husband wrapping herself into his waiting arms.
Paul walked over and sat down next to Sally putting his arms around her as she cried.
Alison didn't know what to think when she walked in the house wanting to see who was there. She had been in the barn with Shady when Paul and Sally pulled up. Walking into the living room she found her mother in her father's arms and Sally in Paul's arms weeping. Sally and Paul stood up when Alison walked into the room going over to Sally she welcomed a hug from the silver haired woman.
Sitting down beside Sally, Alison filled her in what life in DC was like. Elizabeth took a seat next to her daughter listening to her talk.
"Noodle, Sally brought out some lasagna, bread and salad if you are hungry." Henry told his middle child. "There is also her famous chocolate cake," he gave Alison a wink.
"Maybe later, dad," Alison's simply reply.
"Honey, I need to run into town and meet with the Medical Examiner. I am going to have Paul go with me." Henry bent down in front of her, he knew she would not be able to handle the task. "Sally, would you mind staying with Liz and Ali and keep them company for me?" He gave the older lady a wink.
"Of course I will dear," Sally told him.
Henry leaned down giving his wife a kiss before looking around for his keys.
Paul gave a small laugh at Henry digging thrugh his pockets looking for his keys.
"Did you lose something Henry?" Paul asked him.
"Yes, my keys." Henry told him walking to the kitchen looking for his missing keys.
"Ummm...dad the detail drove today." Alison reminded him.
"Its been a long day," Henry let out a breath.
"I will drive," Paul told him.
"Thanks" Henry and Paul headed out the door, glancing over his shoulder Henry watched his wife sitting quietly on the couch.
"Mom, can I go for a ride?" Alison asked her mom.
"Sure honey see if Uncle Dave will ride with you okay?" She told her daughter.
Dave had been Paul and Donnas' stable hand for over thirty years, Elizabeth always saw him as the brother she never got, they were connected at the hip when she was growing up. The kids referred him as Uncle Dave and she trusted him with Alison.
"Okay, mom thanks." Alison laid a kiss on her mother's cheek.
"How about I fix us some coffee?" Sally wanted to do something useful.
"Okay," Elizabeth voice quiet.
Alison came bouncing back into the house, "Dave said he would go with me so can I go?" Alison asked her mom.
"That's fine, don't ride to long okay we have to go to the funeral home later." Her mothers voice quivered.
"Do I have to go?" Alison wanted to know.
"We will talk about it when your dad gets back okay Noodle." Elizabeth tried to keep the frustration out of her voice.
Giving her mom another kiss Alison headed out the back door toward the barn.
"She is growing up way to fast," Sally told Elizabeth.
"Yes that she is. can you believe she is sixteen already?" Elizabeth explained.
The ladies made small talk while waiting for the coffee to brew, once it was done - Sally cut Elizabeth and herself a piece of the cake she had brought to go with their coffee. Taking their coffee and cake into the living room Elizabeth told her about life in DC.
As Paul pulled into a parking space at the Medical Examiner's office Henry took a deep breath, letting it out slowly he prepared himself. This was going to be one of the hardest things he has had to do. But he knew it had to be done, there was no way his wife could do it. He would do anything to protect her from the pain of seeing her parents like this, on a cold slab in the morgue.
Walking slowly up to the door Paul held the door for him, they were greeted by the receptionist. Henry explained who he was and that Mr. McLaughlin was expecting them.
"Do you want me to go in and to this?" Paul asked him
"No I need to do it, for Elizabeth." Henry let out the breath he was holding.
"Okay let's go," Paul encouraged him
Taking a deep breath Henry opened the door to the building. Stopping at the reception desk he let the young lady know he was there to see Mr. McLaughlin. Picking her phone she let Bob McLaughlin know they were there.
"Mr. McLaughlin will be here in a moment if you want to have a seat." She pointed across the room to a couch and four wooden chairs.
"Thank you," Both men had a seat and waited.
It wasn't long before an older gentleman walked thru a set of double doors.
"Mr. McLaughlin this is Paul Hoyle he was Scott Falkner's best friend." Henry introduced the men.
"How's your wife doing Dr. McCord?" Bob asked Henry.
"She is taking her parents death's very hard. She stayed out at the house with our daughter and Paul's wife. I didn't want her to see her parent's like this I want her to remember them from the last time see saw them a few month's ago.
"I'm sorry for your loss," Bob never got use to this part of his job.
If you will follow me I will take you to the viewing window, the three men proceed down a long hallway. The smell of disinfect burned Henry's nose, he noticed that the building smelled sterile when they walked through the front door. Stopping in front of a big glass window, the Medical Examiner knocked on the window a gentleman on the other side pulled the blind up giving them a good view into the big room. Giving Henry and Scott a moment to collect themselves, he gave the signal.
The man pulled back the white sheet that covered Paul Falkner's battered body which laid on a cold metal slab. A deep purple bruise covered the right side of his face, a large gash went from just blow his scalp down the right side of his face. Unable to speak Henry nodded giving a positive id, closing his eyes he imagined what this would have done to Elizabeth if she would seen the way her father looked. His wife is a strong confident woman but this would have crushed her and he couldn't do that to her. Opening his eyes he waited for the body Donna Falkner to be pulled out of the metal box. Pulling down the sheet Donnas' face came into view. Henry felt like someone had punched him in the stomach. Traces of blood still on her face, he could see deep cuts and purple bruises all over her face. He turned his back to the window, he could no longer look. Thankfully Scott was able to finished the identification. Turning away from the window Scott put his arm around Henry's shoulder's and guided him back out the big silver doors. Out in the reception area Henry sat down in one of the chairs Bob McLaughlin sat down across from him. Going over the paperwork with him he explained that an autopsy has been preformed. That they were now waiting for the funeral home to come retrieve the remains. Handing a clip board with papers on it he showed Henry where to sign. After finishing with the papers Henry and Paul left the office and heading back to the farm.
"Do you think we could take the long way back?" Henry asked Scott.
"No problem," Paul started the car and pulled out of the parking lot.
He had been so busy taking care of Elizabeth he hadn't processed his in-law's death yet. He sat quietly looking out the window memories running through his mind. Meeting the Faulkner's for the first time after his fourth date with Elizabeth. Asking Scott for Liz's hand in marriage, their wedding day, Christmas, the kids birthdays it ran on a loop through is mind.
The rest of the ride was done in silence both men lost in their own thoughts.
Pulling up at the house Henry got out of the car and instead of walking toward the house he stood in the driveway. Paul stood beside the car watching Henry with a worried look on his face. The other's man face was pale, and his hands were shaking.
Walking up he put his hand on the younger man's shoulder, "They loved you. You were the son they never had. They were proud of you, and the way you loved their daughter."
Standing there a few minutes Henry collected his thoughts before walking into the house. Walking into the living room both woman looked up at them, Elizabeth got up and crossed the room to her husband.
Wrapping her arms around his waist, "What's wrong?" She whispered in his ear.
"Nothing babe, everything is fine," He whispered back. He didn't want to upset her anymore than she already was but she knew him all to well.
"Okay," Elizabeth dropped it for now. She hoped he was just overwhelmed.
Sally stood up "We should be going. You guys have things to do." she said.
"Thank you so much for coming out." Elizabeth walked over to her giving the older lady a hug,
"Call us after you speak to Sam at the funeral home and let us know what arrangements have been made."
"We will, thank you again for coming out, it meant a lot us." Henry gave Sally a hug.
"Tell Stevie and Jason hello for us when you get back to DC, I am sure we will see them at the funeral in a few days." Scott shook Henry's hand.
Henry and Elizabeth walked the couple to the door after they had left Elizabeth went back into the living room and plopped down on the couch.
"Where's Ali?" Henry asked her.
"She and Dave went for a ride. Its all starting to take a toll on her." Elizabeth patted a spot next to her. "Okay what's wrong? She asked her husband. "You seem different since you got back."
"It was...much harder than I expected to see them like that." His resolve broke he couldn't no longer hold back his tears.
Pulling her husband closer to her she held him while he cried, letting her own tears fall.
"I'm sorry you had to do that babe," She told him.
Not wanting to upset his wife with any more details they sat their quietly in each other's arms. Alison came in door heading to the living room looking for her parents. She had noticed that the Hoyle's car had left. Rounding the corner she smiled a sad smile when seeing her parents wrapped in each other arm's their faces tear stained. Looking up Elizabeth was the first one to notice Alison walk into the room.
"How was your ride Noodle?" Elizabeth didn't move from her husbands arms.
"It was good Uncle Dave took me out to the north forty. There is a new calf out there he wanted me to see." She told her mom and dad all about their ride.
Looking at his watch Henry noticed they would need to be leaving shortly. "Babe, Noodle we will need to leave shortly," he called to his wife and daughter.
"Dad can you go get the stuff out of the bedroom. I can't go back in there." Alison asked. "I don't want Mom to do it ."
Henry opened Scott and Donnas' bedroom door slowly, grabbing the garment bag with the clothes in it and canvas bag's with the rest of the stuff he quickly exited the room closing the door behind him.
Both Elizabeth and Alison had already gone out to the waiting car, walking out the front door he pulled it closed behind him making sure it was locked before walking to the waiting SUV. Taking a deep breath he opened the door and laid the garment bag over the back of the seat, laying the canvas bag on the floor. Going around to the other side he climbed in beside he wife grabbing onto her hand.
"What about the food?" Elizabeth asked.
"We can come back out and get it when we are done before we head back to the city." He told her.
The drive to the funeral home was a quiet one - Alison had plugged her headphones into her phone opening her playlist she found the song she wanted hitting play the music started.
Sitting next to his wife Henry held tightly on to his wife's hand. He knew this was just the beginning of a very hard week not just for his wife but for the whole family. Looking over at his wife Henry sent up a silent prayer, asking the man above to take away Elizabeth's pain. Closing his eyes for only a moment he could feel her hands start to shake, her breathing became shallow, quickly looking over at her he could see her face become tense and pale. He figured they must be getting close to the funeral home. Picking up the paper bag he hid under the seat he pulled it out in case she needed it. Putting his arm around her he pulling her into a hug, she laid her head on his shoulder tears beginning to once again fall.
"Oh babe I wish I could take this pain," whispered in her ear. "We will get through this together. I'm right here."
It broke his heart how badly she was hurting and their was nothing he could do for her except watch helpless. He would have given anything to spare her the hurt she was feeling. He prayed that after the funeral was over she wouldn't throw her self back into work and try to escape the pain that way. But knowing her as he did he knew that was exactly what she would do.
The car came to a stop, waiting for the agent to open the door Henry placed a kiss on her temple, giving her hand one last squeeze.
Elizabeth and Henry got out of the car, Henry went around and grabbed the garment and canvas bag. Alison who was sitting in the rear seat stopped just inside the opened door. Turning around and looking at Alison Henry could see the trepidation in her eyes.
"What's wrong sweetie?" He gentle asked his daughter.
"I don't want to go in," her voice soft.
"Oh sweetie, are you sure?" He wasn't going to push her.
Shaking her head yes he wrapped her in a hug.
"Okay let me talk to Fred and find out if its okay for you stay out here with them." He told her. He knew that most of the detail would be going inside but she could stay with the one remaining outside.
Before Henry could turn to ask Fred the big man spoke first.
"It's fine for Alison to hang out here with Agent Matthews." Fred told them giving the young lady a wink.
Henry took a hold of his wife's hand they followed the agents up sidewalk to the door of the funeral home. Almost to the door Elizabeth stopped suddenly dropping her hand from Henry's, making a quick turn she headed back toward the safety of the SUV. Before she could get to vehicle Henry grabbed her elbow stopping her. Taking a deep breath he faced her.
"Babe we have to go inside. I know it hurts." He tried to encourage her. "But if you don't do this you will regret it later."
Standing there she knew in her heart he was right but she couldn't make her body move. Leaning in toward Henry he wrapped his arms around her holding her tight giving her the time she needed to pull herself together. Her detail just feet away with their backs to the grieving couple. Finally nodding her head walked hand in hand into the funeral home.
An older gentleman opened the door as they approached.
"May I help you?" The gentleman asked them.
"Yes sir I am Henry McCord, we are here to make arrangements for Scott and Donna Faulkner. We spoke yesterday on the phone. This is my wife Elizabeth. The Faulkner's are, were her parents." Henry caught himself."
"My name is Samuel Teague. If you will come into my office we can get started. Opening the door his office, they took a seat across from the big wooden desk.
"Let me start by saying how very sorry I am for your loss." Samuel Teague told the couple sitting in his office.
"Thank you," Henry said.
"I have a few questions. If it becomes to much let me know and we can stop for a moment."
Both nodding their heads they sat side by side holding tightly onto each others hands.
"Okay here we go. Do you have a copy of the your parents insurance policies?"
"Yes," Henry pulled the document
"Now onto the rest of the decisions," Samuel Teague told them.
After some discussion they chose to have her parents on visitation on Friday and funeral service on Saturday. Given it was Tuesday that would give them enough time to go back to DC get stuff done pick up Stevie and Jason and get back.
When it came time to pick out which caskets they would using Elizabeth got up and paced the room. Henry looked through the catalog deciding on two wooden ones. Next they decided which flowers they would want, followed by what they wanted the programs to say, and what songs would be played. Henry made most of the decisions. Looking over at Elizabeth she would occasionally shake her head but he could see she was barely holding it together
Elizabeth could hear what the funeral director was saying about flowers for her parents caskets, but she wasn't really listening. She heard someone say something about music and programs but she really didn't want to deal with it. She sat staring off into space trying to ignore the questions. Henry looked over at her from time to time and she would shake her head giving him some kind of sign he was making the right decisions. She was grateful that Henry didn't push her into answering and handled the whole thing.
"There is one last thing we need to discuss," the funeral director hesitated. "Do you want your parents casket's open or closed?" This is the question he hated asking.
That was the last straw Elizabeth could no longer keep control of her emotions, Her shoulders shaking with grief, tears were streaming down her already wet cheeks. Letting out a loud sob she jumped from her chair and headed for the door. Swinging it open she bolted out the door for the safety of the SUV, but instead made her way toward the park just across the street her detail hot on her heels. Sitting down on one of the swings she cried her entire body shaking.
Henry looked up from the catalog of caskets to see his wife flying out the door. He wanted to run after her, but he knew she needed time to work through this alone. He also knew her detail would be close by and would come get him if she needed him.
"I'm sorry what was your question?" He asked the man sitting across from him.
"Caskets open or closed?" Mr. Teague asked the question again.
"That's a hard question for me to answer," Henry answered him honestly. "Can we wait until the day of the funeral to decide?"
"That's fine," the funeral director answered back.
After signing the necessary papers Henry said good bye to Mr. Teague he walked toward the waiting vehicle. Noticing that only Mike stood next to the SUV, he gave the agent a look. Mike tilted his head toward the direction of the park giving him a nod Henry crossed the street, making his way toward the park. Walking up quietly, he nodded to the agents. Stepping in front of the swing where his devastated wife sat he bent down in front of her.
"Hey, you ready to go home?" He asked her gently.
Shaking her head no he sat down on the ground in front of her.
"My parents use to bring me to this park," her words were soft. "I had my seventh birthday party over there. I broke my arm on that jungle gym." The memories came flooding back to her. "I even kissed my first boy here. I was nine," She gave a small chuckle.
Sitting there Henry listened to her recall memories from her past not saying a word. When she finished she stared off into space before speaking again.
"What am I going to do without them?" Her words broken. "How will do this? I'm scared."
"I will be right here beside you. We will do this together." His word's genuine. "You are not alone. The kids and I love you. Right now we take it moment by moment, then day by day. I have you, you're not going to fall."
"Thank you I couldn't do this without you," her voice was soft.
"Ready to go home," He asked her.
Shaking her head yes, he got up and took her hand. Helping her off the swing they walked hand in hand back to the SUV. Once inside she laid down in the seat with her in his lap. She closed her eyes hoping sleep would take over but all she saw where a reel of flashbacks. So she laid quietly, hoping the trip home would be quick.
Henry sat quietly with his wife's head in his lap, playing with her hair he wiped a single tear from her eye. Looking over his shoulder at his daughter in the seat behind them. Alison's eyes were closed she had ear buds in her ears, he knew she was listening to music. Smiling he turned back around looking out the window as they left Charlottesville. The rest of the trip home was made in complete silence, everybody off in their own worlds ready to be done with this difficult day.