Secret Chapter 6, a titanic fanfic

Just 2 chapters left! (I always intended this to be a shorter fic)

Golden sunlight flooded Cal's bedroom, and illuminated the white bedsheets, as Cal gently stroked Rose's hair as he watched her sleep, still unable to believe his pure good fortune and happiness.

Part of him was still very much numb, and in complete and utter shock and disbelief, as he ran the beautiful events of last evening through his mind.

Had Rose really confessed she loved him? Had they really made love? Was his one last, real dream finally really a wonderful reality, by some utter miracle?

Frankly, Cal would not have been surprised if this were only some cruel, though beautiful, dream, about to turn into an utter nightmare once he finally woke up from the coma he surely was in.

Yet…as he pinched himself, the pain he felt proved that yes, indeed… somehow, without a doubt, that had all miraculously happened…and he couldn't help smiling yet again.

Feeling even more mesmerized by her beauty as he watched her sleep, he tenderly kissed her head, though afterward unable to stifle another small smile as he remembered just how adorable she had been with her shyness and embarrassment before they had made love, as well as during and after. Though it still almost killed him as he was reminded of just how low Rose's self-esteem was in regards to him, and as he remembered how she had cried thinking of his illness.

Her pain had been all because of him, and again, he hated how he would only cause her pain and heartbreak in the end, with his death.

But…he was at least happy that he was sure that she truly wanted to marry him, and that she truly did love him, despite how their life together would eventually cruelly end, and again, he could only marvel at just how she was able to love such a pathetic man as himself.

Tenderly kissing her cheek again, pushing all the pain and worry and sadness he felt far, far away, Cal instead allowed himself to simply focus on just how fortunate he and Rose were to have the precious, though sadly borrowed, time that they did have together, and on just how much he loved her.

Smiling softly yet again as he remembered her amusing and adorable finishing-school confession from the previous evening, as well as the wonderful rest of the trip they had before them, sleep claimed him once again.

Hours passed, and soon, Rose finally awoke. True, she still felt very, very sore, of course…but she could not help from smiling widely, though profusely blushing, as she took in the absolutely breathtaking sight of Cal, still sleeping.

No…she did not regret her decision in the slightest, and last night had truly been the best night of her life, without question.

Yet…at the sight of him, an endless deluge of memories from the previous evening rushed over her, and she couldn't help her blush from deepening…

His gentle kisses and warm lips, worshiping every single inch of her body, and how he had made her feel like she was absolutely flying every single time he had kissed her…

And his warm, gentle hands, and how they had made her feel more wonderful than she had ever felt in her entire life…

And…goodness, yes…how beautiful it had been when he had looked her deep in the eyes and told her he loved her what seemed a thousand times…and how wonderful it had been when he had uttered her name over and over…

Rose still felt as though she would easily swoon, though, if she kept thinking of it, and simply snuggled in closer to Cal.

Yet…suddenly, his warm amber eyes opened, and he smiled.

Rose's heart lurched, and her face became even hotter, and she couldn't help from smiling, widely, back.

"Hello," he said softly, tousling his dark hair as he did so.

"Hello," Rose said breathlessly.

His smile grew a little wider. Rose felt herself grow even weaker as she focused on it.

Then he simply said, "How did you sleep, darling?"

Cal gently tangled his hand in her hair, and Rose's blush deepened.

"P…perfectly," she said softly, and he tenderly kissed her.

Again, her heart stuttered.

After they broke apart, Cal said, "I am glad to hear it, Rose darling. And I hope you only feel as wonderful as I do."

Rose looked down, shyly, her blush deepening, and Cal could only smile as, again, he focused on just how adorable she was.

Rose looked up again, smiling. "I…I do. Truly. And I…I just love you so much, Cal."

Cal felt his own heart stop. Yet he only slowly shook his head and said, "Not as much as I love you, Rose. I'm sure of it. You're too good for a man like me."

Feeling pained, Rose said, "Oh, Cal. Of course I'm not! And I love you just as much as you love me. Believe me."

Leaning in, she kissed him this time, and Cal couldn't help from smiling.

"I…I know you do, Rose. It's just…entirely too hard to believe sometimes. That's all."

Rose laughed softly, and messed up his hair even more.

Sighing in contentment as Cal pulled her ever closer to him, she snuggled into his warm chest, as he stroked her hair.

"We still have two hours before the tour, and before breakfast, if you would like to go back to sleep, darling."

Rose laughed again. "Oh, no. I'd much rather stay in bed with you."

Eyes widening at her comment, she quickly sat up, holding the bed sheet tight against her, cheeks flaming, and said, "Oh…goodness…I…I meant just talking…not…not…you know…"

Yet Cal couldn't help laughing, sitting up too, and tenderly leaned in and kissed her.

"I know what you meant, Rose darling. Truly. And you don't need to be embarrassed, though it is adorable when you are. What we did was beautiful, and there is no shame in that."

Rose couldn't help smiling, despite her embarrassment, and said, "Oh…I…I know. I…I just get so embarrassed around you, I can't help myself. But I…I would be lying if I said I wouldn't enjoy making love yet again."

Yet Rose couldn't help her blush from growing at her confession, and Cal softly stroked her red cheeks, grinning.

"Goodness! What have I done, Rose? I've corrupted you!" he gently teased, and Rose couldn't help laughing.

"Oh yes! You forever destroyed the proper woman in me, Mr. Hockley, and I truthfully couldn't be happier about that!" Rose said, laughing a little herself, though still embarrassed.

"Who knew how beautiful and wonderful making love really is, as well as just how enjoyable?" she said.

Cal softly laughed.

"Well it's our naughty little secret, then," he said, gently winking at her, and Rose couldn't help laughing yet again, though her blush grew as he looked at her reverently, before leaning in and kissing her.

Feeling disarmed as he looked at her, Rose couldn't help her cheeks from growing even hotter…yet…a horrifying thought occurred to her.

"Oh goodness! I…I just thought…"

Cal, genuinely puzzled and concerned at just how mortified she looked just then, softly said, "Oh, darling? What's wrong?"

Biting her lip, Rose said, "The others at dinner…I…I can only imagine how it must have looked, when we didn't show up for dinner last evening…I…goodness…they probably all knew just what we did, and just what we were doing!"

Yet…as she looked at Cal, despite her embarrassment, Rose couldn't help from shyly smiling, and then beginning to laugh… Especially since Cal himself also smiled widely and began to laugh.

Cal said, "Oh goodness! You had me so scared, Rose! And…oh…I'm sure they have no idea what we did. And even if they do suspect it…so what? There's no shame at all in what we did. And everyone at our table is very agreeable. But if we had been stuck with a table full of snobby, horrible people from back home in Philadelphia…then you're right. That certainly would be a problem! We would both have to move and change our names! And we'd be the perfect outcasts of proper Philadelphia society!"

Cal's smile was so wide, and his words so very true, that Rose couldn't help but begin to laugh in earnest.

"Oh…you are completely correct, Cal! Oh goodness…I'm shuddering just thinking about it! Thank goodness nobody from back home we know is on this voyage with us! Though I do have to admit, it would be wonderful being an outcast with you."

Rose smiled shyly then, blushing yet again, and then Cal couldn't help from grinning.

Leaning in again and kissing her, he said, "I'd gladly be an outcast anywhere in the world with you, Rose."

Looking at him, Rose honestly could have cried, then, as she focused on just how much she loved him…

His warm, achingly gentle fingers on her cheek as he caressed her face also made her heart positively jump, and she leaned in and kissed him, his warm mouth only medicine to her soul.

After she pulled back, Cal gently shook his head again. "I love you so much, Rose. You have no idea how much."

Rose felt herself shyly smile again, and she only tousled his soft hair once more.

"I do, though. Believe me."

Looking at her, though, Cal felt his heart literally stop at her words, and was entirely unable to stop himself from kissing her yet again, as if under some sort of spell.

Yet…looking at him, Cal honestly looked transfixed…and Rose honestly was about to ask what was wrong, horrified maybe his consumption was acting up…

Yet Rose only felt Cal's warm hands entwine in her red curls, as he pulled her in towards him for another searing kiss.

Feeling breathless after he finally broke it, Rose only shyly smiled once more, blush growing, and buried her face in his chest.

Cal tenderly kissed her head, and then said, "You know, though…being cast out from proper Philadelphia society wouldn't be so bad! Maybe we should let our scandalous secret out! We'd never have to deal with the snobby Shoonmaker clan again…"

He laughed, then, and Rose couldn't help laughing at the wonderful sound of his laugh.

"Oh goodness yes! I agree!" she chimed in. "Or the Olsons and the Hollands! And all of my mother's friends are the absolute worst! They're snobby old witches who look down on anyone who is not wealthy. And they're just mean and old and no fun at all! They make my mother look like an absolute saint by comparison!"

Cal laughed. "I hate the Frederick brothers. They're such arrogant asses, but, unfortunately, one of Hockley Steel's biggest clients."

Rose shuddered, though she laughed again too. "Oh I can't stand them! And oh goodness…I can't stand the Olson sisters…being forced to have tea with them all in a big group is awful! They're just so conceited and mean-spirited! And honestly…I admit I cannot stand the eldest Olson sister because I know full well she has always had her eye on you, Cal."

Cal grinned, yet couldn't help the shudder of his own that went though him.

"Oh god…believe me, Rose. I would rather marry Dorothy Cutting than marry Elizabeth Olson!"

Rose laughed loudly in delight, as Dorothy Cutting was an eighty-year old widow in their circle. And, unfortunately, just like the snobbiest of their class, she was cruel, vain, mean-spirited, and wicked to a fault.

Though truthfully she was relieved at his words…despite how awful and mean Elizabeth Olson was, just like her younger sisters, she was very beautiful…and certainly more beautiful than she herself was…

Yet…looking at her, Cal felt his heart only break, and said, "Rose darling. Please. Look at me."

Rose did so, and Cal said, softly stroking her face once more, "Believe me, Rose darling. Elizabeth Olson may admittedly be very beautiful, but she is also cruel, vain, mean and shallow. I would be miserable married to her. And I have never, ever felt that way towards her, even long before I met you, and I never would. And I never will. And besides, despite what you may think about yourself, Rose, you are far more beautiful than she is, in every way. On the inside, and on the outside. Believe me."

Rose couldn't help from tearing up at his words, the very relief she felt almost painful, and Cal only gently wiped them away sadly, before kissing her once again.

Yet Rose was unable to stop a relieved laugh, and Cal was relieved to hear it.

"Besides…she would run screaming in disgust once she'd find out I have consumption!"

Cal grinned, and, somehow, Rose couldn't help laughing yet again, though she still felt a very real pang of pungent sadness, yet again, as she remembered his illness.

Yet…pushing the sadness down, as she refused to let it ruin their wonderful vacation, or spoil their happiness just then, Rose said, "She would, and she's even more of a fool for that."

And Rose leaned in and kissed him again, before gently lying back down and snuggling deep into his chest, drawing little patterns on his bare chest.

Cal simply gently held her and stroked her hair, and the two continued to talk for a time, before finally getting up and bathing and dressing for the day.

As Rose was laced into her corset for the day by Trudy, Rose couldn't help laughing at Trudy's kind, sweet words.

"Oh Miss! I am so happy for you and Mr. Hockley! You make an absolutely adorable couple, and I am so very glad the two of you love each other so! You both deserve every happiness in the world!"

Smiling at her in the mirror, Rose said, "Oh thank you so much, Trudy. You've always been very sweet. And believe me, one day you'll find a man who loves you just as much as Cal loves me."

Trudy blushed, smiling shyly. "Oh…I do admit there is one man back home that I…I am sweet on. He's a fellow servant, like me…and I…I hope that one day he…he will notice me."

Clapping her hands excitedly, Rose said, "Oh! Who is it? Believe me, you don't have to be afraid to tell me, Trudy. I consider you a friend."

Smiling a little wider, Trudy looked down demurely before shyly saying, "Joseph. You know…another servant of your mother's? The Irish one?"

Rose couldn't help her eyes from widening. "Oh! Of course! He's so nice! And he boxes on the side, you know!"

Trudy nodded, worry entering her eyes. "I know…he does it for the extra money it brings him. And I've helped him clean up his wounds many a time…he's always so kind when I do. I so wish he wouldn't…but he loves it so."

Trudy paused, and then continued. "And I…oh! I know I am too foolish for feeling the way I do for him, but I…I just cannot help it! He is so sweet, and kind, and smart! And talented, and interesting…and oh. He is just perfect. And very handsome, too. Just perfect. I have never felt this strongly about a man before, and I…I just hope he might feel the same about me."

Rose smiled. "Oh, Trudy. Tell him how you feel…his answer may surprise you."

Trudy laughed a little. "Oh, no Miss…I…I'm not beautiful like you or all the other servant girls in your mother's employment…"

Rose gasped. "Oh Trudy! Yes you are! And I am sure you will find he feels the same way about you. Believe me."

Trudy smiled again, eyes hopeful. "Well…perhaps I will, when we get back…tell him, I, I mean."

Rose nodded in approval. "Excellent choice."

And as Trudy helped Rose dress, Rose gently teased her.

"But I couldn't help noticing that Joseph really is very similar to Cal. Very kind, sweet, smart, and perfect in every way. And very handsome, though looks aren't the most important thing by far in a man…we sure got lucky, didn't we Trudy?"

Trudy laughed softly, yet she blushed. "I can only hope I will be as lucky as you one beautiful day, Miss Rose, and that I will be able to marry Joseph some day, as you will marry Mr. Hockley. And yes…Mr. Hockley is very kind and handsome. I have always thought so."

They both laughed together, then, and then Trudy spoke again.

"Really, though, Miss…I can truly see the difference Mr. Hockley brings out in you. You are much happier these last two days…and I can tell he is much happier, too. You both complete each other. I wish you two a lifetime of happiness. I can tell you will love only each other the rest of your lives!"

Again, Rose felt a pang of sadness…yet she pushed it down and shook herself, unable to staunch yet another blush as she thought of Cal. Slowly she smiled.

"I…I honestly do love Cal, Trudy. With…goodness…with all of my heart and soul. He's my prince, and the one true love of my life. No…no other man could ever take his place."

Trudy laughed. "Oh Miss Rose, you're blushing! And oh…you two really are breathtakingly romantic and sweet together! It's like a fairy-tale come true! And it's so sweet how he looks at you all of the time…"

And Rose laughed herself, as Trudy continued to gush.

Looking one last time in the mirror before going to breakfast, Rose couldn't help nervous flutters in her stomach.

Would Cal like how she looked today?

Truthfully deep down she knew the answer would be yes, and that she was being entirely too ridiculous…yet she knew she always would be this nervous around him, and that just could not be helped.

Today, for the day of the tour of Titanic that she was so eager to get to, Rose had chosen one of her favorite outfits: a velvet royal-blue skirt, with a matching jacket, and a beautiful white scarf to go along with it.

And instead of having her hair be in an updo, she had chosen to wear it down, with a butterfly clip in it.

Breathing in deep, she simply shook herself, and left.

Yet, at the sight of Cal, in a handsome black vest, a smart white-dress shirt underneath, and black dress-pants and shoes on, her heart stopped.

His back had been to her, but he turned, smiling widely.

His soft dark hair was hanging loose, like always, and combed perfectly, yet with plenty of its natural tousle that she loved so much, and his smile was so beautiful that she found she could easily have stared at him, frozen in place, for the rest of her days.

He produced another perfect red rose, almost identical to the one he had given to her before dinner their first night on the ship, and came towards her.

Tenderly, he placed it in her hair. Rose blushed.

"You look even more breathtakingly beautiful than usual, darling, if even possible."

Rose smiled. "Oh, Cal," she said softly.

She could smell the wonderful, yet soothing, scents of his cologne that she loved so very much, as well as soap from his bath, and she would have been entirely too happy simply burying her face in his warm, soft chest and having him simply hold her to him for the rest of the day, truth be told, yet she shook herself.

Brilliant, luminous sunlight was absolutely flooding the breakfast nook, the sweet scent of the ocean rolling in through the open window from outside, and, though the breakfast table was all set for the pair of them, Rose still was almost powerless to move.

As she only looked at him, her shy smile was near instantaneous, yet Rose still couldn't contain a vivid and powerful blush, yet again, as she remembered their lovemaking.

"Goodness…I can barely even look at you after what we did," she said shyly, laughing a little, blush only deepening, and Cal smiled gently as she looked down at her feet, adorably so.

Cal simply pulled her to him gently, kissing her head, and said, "I love you so much, Rose."

Rose's smile only grew as she finally looked back at him, and then she honestly felt her heart stutter as Cal leaned over and softly, gently kissed her once again…

The room positively spun, and though Rose felt dangerously close to passing out, she happily would have stopped time and stayed like this forever with Cal…

And Cal, for his part, felt himself become only more deeply intoxicated from her, and wished they could simply stay like this forever, as well.

Yet…Rose knew, instinctively, that if they continued, that it would be dangerously possible that she and Cal would only make love again, and effectively miss the tour, and all the wonderful activities that they had planned…

Honestly, though, deep down Rose could have sobbed at just how badly she wanted to make love again, just then, with him…and at just how wonderful and beautiful that would only be…but she made herself simply focus on all that they had planned, that day, and forced herself to stop thinking of such things…

So, her entire being screaming for her not to, she pulled back, breaking their kiss, breathless and still woozy, and simply shakily smiled at him, still feeling very weak.

Looking at him, Cal seemed as deeply affected as she was, and Cal shook himself, his heart still racing.

Focus…focus, Hockley… he thought, though it was more than tempting thinking of gently picking Rose up and carrying her to his bedroom and locking them both in for the entire rest of the day, simply to make love over and over again, truth be told…

And, looking at her, and especially from how wide her eyes were, Cal could see that Rose, quite honestly, would truthfully not have minded that at all either…

Yet Cal only shook his head again, his smile growing even wider, and said, "I am so sorry for that, darling. I just can't control myself around you."

Rose breathlessly laughed, and, focusing on the sound of her laugh, Cal felt his heart honestly skip, with just how much he loved her, his arousal slowly but surely ebbing once more.

"It…it's quite all right. Truthfully, I…I didn't mind at all," she said, though her voice was adorably breathy, and Cal grinned at her.

Rose grinned back, though he could see her beginning to blush, and Cal's smile grew even wider.

Clearing his throat, forcing the last of his arousal down for the time being, composing himself as best he could, he simply went over to her and gently scooped her up in his arms, bridal style, and Rose couldn't help her eyes from widening, and then from squealing in delight.

Cal laughed a little at her adorable reaction, and honestly she looked so happy and delighted, just then, that he felt his heart positively skip.

"I'm simply practicing carrying you over the threshold once we're married, darling. I hope you don't mind."

Rose smiled at him, again feeling herself beginning to blush violently.

Her heart was still racing and skipping from their kiss, her stomach still in knots, and she still felt more than weak, and weaker, still, now that she was in his strong, safe arms…yet she couldn't help laughing again in delight.

Rose softly said, "No. I don't."

Cal carried her to their breakfast table, and gently set her on her chair, before kneeling beside her chair, on one knee.

Rose couldn't help her smile from growing again, then, as Cal gently leaned in and kissed her once again.

Her blush only deepening as Cal caressed her cheek, he softly asked, "Well? How did I do, Miss DeWitt Bukater?"

Smiling shyly, Rose said, "You did it perfectly, Mr. Hockley. And it was most enjoyable for me. But I do think even more practice in the future won't hurt."

Cal gently smiled a little, the sight making Rose's heart positively skip, and he nodded.

"I completely agree."

And then he gently leaned in and kissed her once again, before they finally ate breakfast, laughing and talking the whole while, before the tour, an hour away.

Rose couldn't help from smiling as she leaned her head on Cal's shoulder in contentment, as their little group slowly walked, Mr. Andrews continuing to expertly lead, entertain and inform them all.

"And here is where we keep all the lifeboats," he was saying, his voice gentle and soothing to listen to.

He suddenly stopped, then, and so did they all.

The tour had been simply amazing for all of them, and though Rose was saddened it was almost at its end, she knew there were still three more stops after the lifeboats.

Her respect for Mr. Andrews had only grown with his wonderful modesty and endless knowledge of every single rivet and cranny of Titanic, and every single stop had been more fascinating than the last. Not only to her, but to Cal, she knew, and every other person on the tour.

Mr. Andrews suddenly stopped speaking, then, a most solemn expression visiting his face, alarming them all.

Looking at him, it almost looked like he would faint.

Extremely concerned for him, Cal said, "Mr. Andrews? Are you all right?"

And then, Mr. Andrews slowly smiled at Cal, though not unkindly, though he still looked rather grim.

"Thank you very much for your concern, Cal, but I'm quite alright physically. Mentally, I'm afraid…that is a whole other story."

Breathing in deep, Mr. Andrews suddenly spoke again, looking at them all.

"I am quite simply plagued by guilt. That is all. I…my original design, and plan, was to have an abundance of lifeboats on board Titanic. An over-abundance, if I am being perfectly honest. I…I wanted Titanic to have twice the number of boats there would be passengers on every single voyage. She could certainly afford it. But…quite honestly, that is the only facet of my design plan that the White Star Line executives did not agree with me on. They said too many lifeboats would simply clog her decks, and look most disagreeable. They also said it would send the wrong message to Titanic's critics and competition…that Titanic would not be unsinkable, as everyone believes she is."

Stricken, Rose said, "Oh, but, Mr. Andrews…that is not your fault. You had no say in the matter. But…goodness…"

Looking at the brown boats, Rose did a quick count in her head.

"Forgive me, but…you are correct in your estimation. If, God forbid, there ever were something to happen to Titanic in the event of a disaster…only half of the ship's passengers…if that…would be lucky to survive."

They were all staring at her, then, though not unkindly.

Feeling awful, for she was sure she had made Mr. Andrews even guiltier and sadder, Rose said, "Oh…forgive me, Mr. Andrews. I didn't mean to…"

Yet Mr. Andrews slowly smiled, as a cool breeze blew his gray hair back.

Slowly shaking his head, Mr. Andrews said, "Oh, Rose. There is no need to apologize to me. You are correct. And I must say you are honestly one of the most intelligent young women I have ever met. If even half of the girls your age had your intellect and inner beauty, the world would be a much better place."

Feeling stunned, as everyone—the Countess of Rothes, Mr. Geracie, Molly Brown, Johnathan Cuttright, and the pleasant elderly couple—from their dinner table began to applaud her, as well as Cal, Rose couldn't help but blush.

And she couldn't help her blush from deepening, as she shyly stole a glance at Cal, the honest, pure warmth and admiration and love he miraculously felt for her apparent on his face as he looked at her.

Laughing a little, Mr. Andrews said, "You are certainly a lucky man, Cal."

Cal's smile grew, as he slowly shook his head. "I certainly am," he said softly, his eyes never leaving Rose's face.

"My beautiful Rose never fails to amaze me with her intelligence. I'll have to start reading even more than I already do to keep up with her."

Rose's blush only deepened, but she couldn't help smiling and couldn't help her heart from leaping at his words.

Everyone laughed adoringly, and Rose ducked her head. "Oh, Cal…please. Stop it. I really am not that smart. And thank you all, for your kindness…but…Cal is much smarter than me. Believe me."

Cal only quickly drew her to him and kissed her cheek. "Believe me…you are perfect, Rose darling. In every way."

Rose was incapable of stopping another smile, and yet another blush.

Cal drew back, still smiling at her, and said, "How about one more round of applause for her, shall we?"

Everyone laughed again, even Rose this time, and Rose simply allowed herself to enjoy it, as Cal and all the others applauded her.

After, Molly Brown said, "Believe me, Rose sweetheart, you do have some major brains! Never be ashamed of that! Why, all of the many snobby girls in our class your age wouldn't know that the sum of two plus two is four!"

They all laughed again at that, and Cal gently wrapped his warm arms around her waist and kissed her head, drawing her into his slender body.

Rose was glad for it, for it was rather chilly today, and he was so wonderfully warm, and she couldn't help closing her eyes in contentment for a moment.

Rose opened them, then, when Mr. Andrews, smiling tenderly at them, said, "You two really are a wonderful couple, if I may say so, Cal and Rose. I wish you the best of happiness once you are married."

Rose laughed a little, and Cal smiled, too. He said, "Thank you, Mr. Andrews. It is very much appreciated."

Molly Brown said, "You two really are an adorable couple! You sure got lucky, Rose."

She saw the Countess of Rothes nod in agreement as she smiled adoringly at she and Cal as well, and Rose smiled shyly.

"Thank you. And I certainly did," she said, turning to look at Cal, her blush returning, as a breeze blew his hair back.

"Goodness. No she didn't," Cal said, to everyone's laughter again. "I'm the lucky one, believe me."

Everyone chuckled yet again, and then Mr. Andrews said, "Well? Shall we be off to the next stop?"

Everyone nodded, and said, "Certainly."

Giving Rose one last, gentle kiss on her hair, Cal finally released her, and made to follow everyone else, before, yet again, he felt that familiar, truly sinister burn in his lungs and throat.

Goodness…of all the times in the world to be suffering an attack...

He truly hated his consumption, even more. He just hoped it would not be major.

His heart beginning to pound with his nearly overwhelming need to cough, he still felt terrible for having to hold everyone else up on the tour. Especially Rose…she had been so looking forward to this tour, and he didn't want to ruin it for her.

Yet again, Cal hated himself.

Speaking softly, looking at everyone in turn, Cal said, "I'm terribly sorry to inconvenience you all, but please. You all go ahead without me. I insist. I…I'm terribly sorry. I'll catch up after."

As Cal looked around, everyone except Rose honestly looked puzzled.

"Oh…goodness, Cal. We can wait," Molly Brown said, and everyone else nodded in agreement.

Still wanting to gently protest, Cal could only nod, before finally turning away and drawing out his soft white handkerchief.

He honestly felt fine today, as he had yesterday and the day before, and knew that he once again would feel fine once he had expelled the blood…yet he still didn't want anyone at all to witness this. Not their friends…and certainly not Rose.

Goodness…she would be absolutely revolted…

Yet, he suddenly couldn't last any longer, and he finally let himself cough, the sweet relief that he felt coursing throughout his body.

Cal could hear just how he was hacking, and could only imagine just how awful it no doubt sounded to listen to…yet he simply concentrated on letting himself cough, and finally, after a few minutes, he was done. Though he was sure it had felt like years to everyone waiting, and again, he felt guilty.

Taking in a deep, relieved breath after, Cal eyed the cloth. The red stain was dark, and a medium size, but it could have been much worse. He simply folded it up and dabbed his lips, before finally turning back, stuffing the soiled cloth in his pants pocket. He would wash it later.

Rose was looking at him sadly, only concern and tears in her eyes, as she gently walked over to him and rubbed his back soothingly.

Yet Cal could barely even look at her.

Goodness…just how revolted she probably was inside…

Yet he slowly made himself smile, for her, and said, "I'm fine, darling. Trust me."

Yet everyone else was staring at him with the utmost concern and shock on their faces, and Mr. Andrews spoke next, his face aghast.

"My god, Cal…are you sure you're all right?"

Everyone else echoed his concern, Molly Brown speaking next.

"Cal, honey…that may be many things, but I don't think that's a cold like you said it was at dinner our first night on the ship."

Feeling acutely uncomfortable from everybody's intense scrutiny, Cal still forced himself to smile, though it was small.

"I…I greatly appreciate both of your concern…all of your concern, really… but Mr. Andrews, yes, I assure you, I am all right. And Molly…it…it is a cold. A rather nasty one, to be sure, but a cold nonetheless," he lied.

He could not bear to look any of them in the eye as he softly finished speaking, and he could practically see his father's evil smirk, if he would have still been alive, and hear the vicious, nasty, evil-minded joy that would have been present in his father's voice as he shouted the truth, if he had still been living, and standing there with them all.

Vaguely, for one brief moment, Cal honestly wondered if his father had not made some sort of evil deal with the demons in Hell, where he surely was now, with the sole goal of causing him to become ill. Somehow, he would not have been surprised. His father was no doubt taking joy in his illness, from underground.

The thoughts momentarily distracted him from his mild embarrassment, and self-consciousness.

Yet, finally looking up again, Cal almost felt himself wither.

They were still all staring at him, with only shock and concern on their faces, and Mr. Andrews spoke again.

"Are you sure? I could certainly arrange a visit with the ship physician, at no cost to you, Cal…"

Making himself smile yet again, Cal said, "Oh…that's very kind of you, Mr. Andrews, but that's quite all right. I feel perfectly fine. Truly."

Turning to Rose, though, Cal again felt his heart skip, and now truly felt himself wither in earnest now…

Deep down, she had to be absolutely revolted, and he was a disgusting fool…he honestly felt sorry for her, that she was stuck with him, when she only deserved a healthy man…

The crimson blood burned his neck as she looked at him, and Cal simply softly said, "I'm so sorry, Rose darling, for spoiling the tour for you, with this…I know how much you were looking forward to it…"

Rose only looked at him, not speaking, and Cal felt his neck burn even hotter with his embarrassment in front of her.

Yet Rose finally turned and softly said, "Mr. Andrews? You all can go, please…Cal and me will catch up with you all in a moment. Everything is fine. Truly."

Mr. Andrews nodded, and he said, "Of course, Rose. Take your time."

And with that, they all left, leaving just Cal and Rose alone together.

Again, Cal could feel his heart pound and beat loudly in his chest, and his stomach was in knots…

This was it…this was finally it. She would finally say that she was revolted by him, now, and had no wish to marry such a diseased, good-for-nothing man like himself…

Deep down he knew he was being irrational, but still, his fears and insecurities reigned supreme over what Cal knew to be true.

Cal had never suffered an attack in front of Rose, and he simply found it too far-fetched that she would not have found it absolutely disgusting…

Heart still pounding, Cal simply breathed in deep and averted his eyes.

The ground certainly seemed as good a spot as any to focus his eyes upon, in that moment…

The wood of the deck floor beneath them all he could see as he spoke, Cal said, "I…I'm so sorry, again, for ruining the tour for you, Rose. Truly… And for…you having to witness my attack…I…"

But with every single word he uttered, he only felt his neck burn hotter.

Yet, Cal heard Rose's rapid intake of breath, and he honestly was afraid at her words.

"Look at me, Cal," she said gently, and honestly he could not bring himself to at all.

But he was honestly surprised when Rose gently came forward and guided his face upward with her hands, and now that he was looking at her face, he felt as though his clothes would surely catch on fire, the searing, stinging heat in his neck was now so unbearable…

"Oh, Cal…you poor, poor thing," Rose said.

Cal still was silent, yet unable to believe her words.

"I know that you think I'm disgusted by you, but, Cal…nothing could be further from the truth. You cannot help that you are ill, and you did not spoil the tour for me at all! In fact, if not for you we would all not have likely been on it in the first place."

And here she paused before going on, seeming to swallow a lump in her throat.

"And…oh…goodness…it breaks my heart to see you like this…your consumption does not repulse me, and neither do you. I just love you so much, and it kills me to see how embarrassed you are right now, in front of me. I just love you so much."

Miraculously, her voice broke near the end, and there were, once again, tears in her blue eyes, and at her words, Cal was so relieved that he, too, could honestly have cried…

Rose only gently came forward and kissed his neck, and now his neck burned for a different reason.

And then Rose softly kissed him on the mouth, and at her loving, gentle kiss, Cal honestly could happily have stayed like this forever with her, in this moment, for all eternity.

Relief flooding him in great waves once they finally broke apart, he was thoroughly incapable of containing his smile.

Cal softly said, "Oh Rose…I…I just was sure that you would…"

Yet Rose softly shook her head, smiling. "No…no. I never, ever could be disgusted by you at all, Cal. Or your illness. Not in a million years."

At her words, Cal suddenly leaned forward and kissed her, this time, and reveled in the moment, and at just how lucky he was.

Yet, when he finally pulled back, Rose softly went up and tousled his hair, and then let her hand linger on his cheek, gently, slowly stroking.

"Are you feeling all right, Cal? Truly? If you need to go back, I will gladly go with you…"

Cal couldn't help but smile yet again. "Oh…no…I…I truly do feel fine. Once you expel the blood and everything, and let yourself cough…you feel marvelous. Truly. I only feel a little light-headed now, but that will pass soon enough."

Rose didn't seem convinced at first, yet slowly she nodded.

"Alright…if you're sure, Cal."

Cal grinned again, and gently grabbed hold of her arm.

"Alright…we'd better catch up to them, then. They're probably wondering if we fell overboard by now, we've been gone so long."

Thankfully, he saw Rose smile at his joke.

True…he did feel lightheaded, like usual, from his attack, but he was used to it. The bothersome feeling eventually passed, and he simply calmed his body down further by taking a large breath of fresh air.

He heard how the intake was just a little ragged…again, like usual…but ignored it. Other than that, he felt more than fine, now, and was eager to get on with their day.

Smiling again at Rose, Cal felt his heart skip yet again when she smiled, too, and so, the both of them went forward to finish the tour.

Rose couldn't help from breathing in contentedly at lunchtime.

The rest of the tour had been marvelously fun, and Cal, thankfully, truly was feeling alright.

Yet she couldn't help, again, the violent rush of sadness and fear as she remembered just how embarrassed he had been in front of her…and as she remembered that he had even had to suffer an attack at all.

Cal had gone to use the restroom, and without him beside her at that moment, she felt cold and unsafe, though she was having a lovely time sitting with all of their table companions.

And, as, again, Rose remembered that the love of her life was dying, she felt the tears threaten to spill out.

They were all waiting to be served, and Rose felt herself jump suddenly as Molly Brown leaned in to whisper.

"Hey there, Rose. Are you feeling alright? You look as though you're going to faint, honey."

Rose forced herself to smile. "Oh, no…no. Thank you Molly, truly, but I'm all right."

The older woman didn't seem convinced, however.

"Is Cal truly all right? That was an awful coughing fit he had this morning…you can tell me the truth. I won't tell anyone."

Rose looked at Molly, the awful words threatening to bubble up to the surface…yet she faltered.

No. She wouldn't embarrass Cal and betray his secret, simply so she could have a friend to comfort her because she felt sad…she wouldn't do that to him. Frankly she'd be unable to live with herself if she did that…

So instead, Rose pushed the smirking fear and sadness down, and simply let herself linger on the very real reality that she still had years left with Cal.

The fact managed to make her smile in earnest, and especially as she replayed the beautiful events of last evening over and over in her mind…

But she still couldn't staunch a blush as she remembered their lovemaking.

"I…oh Molly. Yes. He truly is all right, thank goodness! And…oh…I'm sorry if I seem distracted…I just…I love him so much."

Her smile grew, and Molly, to her shock, suddenly smirked a little, though good-naturedly.

"You two really are very cute and adorable, honey, and it's clear Cal loves you very much…I'm very happy for you two. Truly. But…I couldn't help noticing that you two were decidedly absent from dinner last night…and you remind me a heck of a lot of myself after my husband and me had made love for the first time."

Molly's words shocked her, and only made Rose blush even further, yet she couldn't help laughing, though shyly, at Molly's smirk morphing into a kind smile.

Making sure she was speaking as quietly as possible, Rose said, "Oh…yes. We…we did. It…It was beautiful, and he…he was so wonderful. There's no other man I would rather have…given my innocence to."

Still blushing, Rose still couldn't help but smile widely, and Molly laughed kindly.

"Oh I knew it! But don't worry Rose…your secret is safe with me. But truly, that really is adorable, and there's no reason to be embarrassed about it."

Molly gently patted her arm, and Rose couldn't help shyly laughing.

Or, again, her blush from rapidly returning as Cal finally headed back to their table, smiling brilliantly at her all the while.

Feeling much happier and safer instantly the moment he was beside her again, Rose's heart leaped as he sat down and gently kissed her cheek.

Rose smiled, unable to meet his eyes for just one moment, and Cal said, "Are you all right, darling?"

Rose looked up, face still on fire, and simply said, "I'm more than fine, now that you are beside me again, Cal."

Cal's answering smile was beautiful, and he only leaned in and kissed her once again, though on the mouth this time.

"I love you so much, Rose," Cal softly said, and Rose's smile only grew.

He gently leaned over and softly kissed her head, then, and Rose felt herself begin to float.

But, thankfully, to everyone's relief, the waiter finally arrived, and the two of them had a simply wonderful lunch together, with all of their friends.

And, as Cal had promised…snails certainly were delicious.

But as they all ate, Rose found that Cal certainly had a much stronger effect on her than even the delicious champagne, as Rose blushed as Cal secretly toasted her, their glasses clinking.

Rose sighed happily as she leaned her head on Cal's warm arm, as they slowly strolled around the first-class deck, before they were to head down to the wedding in third-class.

Cal smiled yet again. "Are you happy, darling?"

Rose couldn't help from laughing a little at his usual sweetness.

"Yes…I truly am, Cal. This trip is truly the best one I have ever taken in my whole life. And I love you so much."

She quickly leaned up and kissed his cheek, before returning her head to his arm.

Cal pulled her in closer to him and kissed her hair.

Rose could only smile.

Yet her attention was soon caught by Cal's gentle exclaiming.

"Oh, darling, look! Dolphins!"

Laughing delightedly, Rose looked in awe as Cal gently pulled her over to the railing. The blue waves churned beneath the ship as it sliced through the waters, and Rose couldn't help exclaiming at the beautiful sight of the two silver dolphins also slicing through the water.

Cal pulled her closer to him.

"Oh Cal! They're so beautiful!"

Cal laughed a little, sending a jolt through her at just how wonderful his laugh was, and he said, "Not nearly as beautiful as you, Rose, though they are wondrous creatures."

Again, Rose could not staunch the crimson blush that coated her cheeks at his words, and it only grew as Cal turned and gently brushed a strand of her hair out of her face.

He grinned merrily, and simply leaned in and kissed her as another icy blast of wind hit.

After they broke apart, Rose couldn't help shivering, despite her joy, and Cal gently rubbed her arms.

"Oh, darling, are you too cold? I'm sorry…it was my awful idea to go walking out here in the first place anyhow…"

Yet Rose couldn't help her laugh. "Oh…it's more than fine. It's just a little chillier than usual today. And it's more than worth it to be freezing as long as I'm with you, Cal."

Again, Cal grinned, and it honestly made her heart skip, before he kissed her once more, and Rose positively melted into it, before they finally broke apart and resumed walking once more.

Rose couldn't contain her excitement and nervous laughter as Cal gently pulled her behind him, on their way downstairs to third-class.

And Cal could not help a brilliant grin of his own. He had to admit that this would be marvelously fun and that he couldn't wait to experience the certain joy that he knew was in store for both he and Rose for just a few glorious hours.

The precious glorious hours that would, even more so, erase his illness and eventual death from his mind.

Cal laughed a little, and then said, "Are you ready for this, Rose? Because I am completely serious in saying that my dancing here will be even wilder than yesterday's!"

Cal felt his heart positively leap at the sound of Rose's laughter, and at her happy reply.

And, finally, they reached the final hallway before entering third-class.

Already the music was very, very loud and lively, and the room seemed to be full of laughter and noise and complete reckless abandon; certainly a far cry from any party in first-class!

At the sounds, Rose felt her entire being float, and she giddily laughed once more.

"I cannot wait, Cal. Oh this will be so very enjoyable!"

Cal grinned again and quickly kissed her head, and Rose closed her eyes at the brief contact.

Finally, Cal opened the door, and they finally entered.

The wooden, large room was full of third-class passengers dancing, drinking, men rough-housing, and, adorably, children chasing each other through the large room.

Yet, the deeper they entered into the room, both Cal and Rose noticed the looks they were receiving.

Mostly, most of the third-class passengers just looked honestly shocked that two first-class passengers had even deigned to enter their quarters.

Although, Cal had to admit that a good majority, especially the older men, were looking at both he and Rose like they had murdered children…mostly older women wore the same expression, too.

Though a select few, especially the younger women, were looking at them both with awe.

Rose couldn't help drawing closer to Cal, and she whispered, "Oh, Cal…they look like they all hate us!"

Cal wrapped his arm around her, rubbing her back, and said, "Yes…I agree, darling. No doubt they think we're snobby monsters who just came here to laugh at them. But it'll be all right…though I won't hesitate to leave if we are asked to. I don't want to ruin the wedding for any of them here. This probably is one of the most enjoyable experiences many of them have had in months; I would hate to spoil this for all of them."

Rose nodded, agreeing. "I completely agree."

Cal beckoned her forward, smiling, and Rose too tried to smile as sincerely as she knew how despite how uncomfortable she felt just then with the looks of hatred both she and Cal were receiving.

But, thankfully, they were both saved by the lucky arrival of Jack.

"Rose!"

At the sound of her name, Rose turned, and instantly smiled, waving brightly.

"Oh, hello again, Jack!"

And then Jack finally appeared in front of them, smiling widely.

"Hi. And you must be Cal," he said, shaking Cal's hand.

"Rose told me a lot about you the other day when she helped me gather my papers. It was pretty clear to me she had it in her head you wouldn't feel the same way about her. But I told her she was probably wrong."

Rose couldn't help blushing, yet smiled, and Cal smiled at the young third-class man in front of him.

"I'm Cal Hockley. It's a pleasure to meet you, sir," he said, and then he turned to Rose.

"And yes. She certainly was wrong," Cal said, smiling, and Rose couldn't help ducking her head yet again. Cal couldn't stop himself from laughing and kissed Rose on the head.

Jack watched their exchange with amusement, and said, "Oh gosh Rose. I'm sorry…I didn't mean to embarrass you. I'm an ass."

Rose smiled sincerely at him. "Oh…you're forgiven."

Jack then spoke again. "Well come on guys! We're all set up in the corner over there…and I'm sorry about the awful looks you two are receiving; I know it must be awfully uncomfortable…but just ignore them."

And Jack began to lead them to the far right corner of the expansive room, where four people were already sitting.

Cal smiled at Rose, and Rose couldn't help smiling back.

"At least we have one ally in this room," Rose said softly, and Cal laughed.

The deeper they went into the room, the warmer it was, and honestly it was very cozy.

But eventually they finally reached Jack's friends, and he introduced them all.

"Hi, guys…this is the first-class couple I told you would be joining us today. That's Cal, and that's Rose," he said.

Both Cal and Rose waved, smiling, and the two girls and the Italian man both smiled back, but one of the men simply regarded them with such cold hate that it honestly made Rose's hair stand on end.

Cal looked at her questioningly, concern in his eyes, and Rose nodded, acknowledging that she was uncomfortable with the way he was looking at them as well.

Yet he seemed to notice the exchange, and scowled even deeper.

Jack, however, seemed to ignore him, and spoke.

"Now…this lovely girl here is the love of my life, my girlfriend Cosette…I met her in Paris, and we've been together two years, and, once we reach America, I am finally going to marry her."

The girl named Cosette blushed and smiled at Jack's adoring gaze on her, and Rose had to admit she was very beautiful. She had long wavy blonde hair and blue eyes, and was dressed in a blue cotton dress, and was tall and thin.

"Nice to meet both of you," she said, shaking each of their hands, her French accent gentle.

Both Rose and Cal, however, couldn't help from greeting her in perfect French, and her eyes widened in delight that they knew her language, smile growing.

Jack smiled. "I tend to slaughter French whenever I attempt to speak it in front of her, I admit. I don't know how she puts up with me."

Cal laughed, and he said, "I don't know how my Rose puts up with me either, as I tend to slaughter English in front of her, she affects me so much."

Everyone laughed, except for the young man with the scowling expression.

Moving on, but not before giving Cosette a quick, adoring kiss on the cheek, Jack said, "And this idiot here is my best friend Fabrizio, and his wonderful girlfriend Helga."

The young good-looking Italian man smiled again and nodded, and his girlfriend Helga also smiled kindly at them.

And then, moving on, Jack said, "And this is my friend Tommy Ryan. Sadly, as you can see, he can't stand people with money. It's sickening."

The young Irish man with the curly hair swore suddenly, startling Rose, yet she could, after a quick glance at Cal, see that he was trying to stifle a laugh.

Tommy Ryan noticed, and narrowed his eyes.

"And what are you laughing at, Mr. Fancy Pants?"

Somewhat put on the spot, though still unable to stop a smile, Cal said, "Nothing. I wasn't laughing at you, sir…just your colorful choice of language. That's all. I am rather immature like that."

Everyone else laughed, yet Tommy still didn't seem convinced.

"I have no use for rich people. You're all snobby, heartless pieces of dog shit who…"

Cal honestly froze, though, his amusement forgotten, and Rose tensed beside him.

Fabrizio, Helga, and Cosette were all horror-struck at Tommy's words, and Jack's mouth was agape.

"Tommy! Stop being so rude! Cal and Rose aren't snobby at all, and both of them haven't done anything to you."

Yet Tommy only swore yet again and got up to go get himself another beer.

Looking at the both of them, Jack said, "Oh god…I'm so sorry, for the both of you…he's just in a mood today…"

Cal, still shocked, finally remembered how to speak.

"Oh no, it's perfectly all right. Would you like it if we left? I wouldn't want to ruin this for you…"

Yet Jack immediately shook his head, looking shocked.

"Oh no! I invited both of you, and we're all going to have a good time. Believe me. Here…I'll go get us all some beers…"

And with that, Jack crossed the room, and both Cal and Rose simply stared at each other, still unsure of what to do.

Yet Jack returned, and said, "Here…sit with us. We all insist."

So, they finally did, and, gradually, the awkwardness dulled, as Tommy Ryan stayed far away from all of them.

Rose laughed happily as she sat on Cal's lap. The cheap beer they had both consumed was coursing through her, and she truthfully had never felt happier.

Luckily, despite Tommy Ryan's cold greeting to both she and Cal, all the others were very nice, and they were all having a marvelous time as they all talked.

But Rose still marveled at the stark contrast to parties in first-class…both she and Cal certainly would not have been able to get away with her sitting on his lap there!

Looking at her, Cal smiled. He truly hoped Rose was having just as good of a time as he was, and that she wasn't miserable.

"Are you feeling all right, darling, or are you just feeling the alcohol tenfold?" he gently teased, laughing a little as well.

She was even more beautiful to him when she was happy, (of course if that was even possible) and it meant the world to him that she was content and having a good time, as she deserved to.

Rose felt herself melt a little inside at his sweetness, and smiled.

"Oh, of course I am, Cal. Though I do admit, that beer certainly seems to be a lot stronger than any of our beer! I truly apologize for how silly I no doubt am acting," Rose said, unable to help a blush as she hiccupped a little.

Cal couldn't help grinning and gently kissed her. Rose melted into it, almost swooning as he finally pulled back.

"You're so adorable, Rose," he said softly, and again, Rose couldn't help but blush.

But the band playing in the corner suddenly started a new song, an even faster-paced Irish jig, and Jack instantly stood up, pulling Cosette with him.

Fabrizio's brown eyes lit up with happiness as well as he pulled Helga up with him.

Turning to them, Jack said, "C'mon guys! The more the merrier out there! We'll even have to have ourselves a friendly little competition, we've all drunk so much! It'll definitely be amusing to see which couple out of we three will be able to dance the best without falling over!"

Rose couldn't help laughing in delight, and Cal grinned.

"Challenge accepted, Dawson," Cal said, and Rose couldn't help practically doubling over in amusement as Cal picked up his beer glass and quickly downed the rest of it.

And then, Rose couldn't help gasping as Cal picked her up in his arms and carried her, bridal-style, out to the dance floor, before depositing her gently on her feet.

Rose stumbled a little, yet Cal expertly caught her, and Rose simply put her hands on his warm chest, clutching a little at his black vest.

Cal grinned again. "Goodness…now I feel rather terrible having you dance, darling. I promise I won't let you fall, though."

At his words, Rose couldn't help leaning her head back and laughing even more deliriously.

"Oh goodness, Cal, you're too sweet! I'm fine…more than fine. Let's dance already, though!"

And Cal couldn't help laughing a little again, before finally drawing her close to him and taking her hands, and, finally, starting to dance.

Cal was certainly more buzzed than drunk, but he had to admit that the faster they moved, and then spun, the more enjoyable it was.

Yelling over the music, Cal said, "Please, feel free to tell me if you're going to be sick, Rose! And if you need to, feel free to vomit on me."

Again, Rose couldn't help but laugh, and said, "Oh, Cal…if I could, I'd kiss you right now! I feel more than fine…really. Truthfully I wouldn't mind going even faster!"

At her invitation, Cal grinned, as he secretly had been hoping to go faster, too…but only if Rose felt fine.

And, with that, grabbing a firmer, yet gentle hold of her, Cal made them move even faster, and he couldn't help laughing again, at just how fun and freeing this was.

And as for Rose…oh, she happily would have stopped time and forever lived in this moment forever, never living beyond this night.

The wonderful feeling of Cal gently holding her, and simply being in his very presence here with him, was more than she could honestly bear.

The world was spinning, and never before had she felt so dizzy…yet she would not have traded the feeling for the world…

He was expertly leading the both of them, and both of them laughed as Jack and Cosette passed them, and as they observed Fabrizio and Helga had collapsed into a drunken heap on the floor, the both of them laughing themselves.

Looking at Rose again, Cal again smiled, and yelled, "You're so beautiful, darling!"

Even despite how drunk she was, Rose still could not help but blush, and couldn't help yelling back, though after she said the words, she could have kicked herself.

"So are you, Cal," she said, and Cal couldn't help laughing more himself.

Yet…suddenly, Cal felt himself trip just a little. And then he felt himself fall, Rose tumbling with him.

He didn't really hurt much once they both were on the wood floor themselves, though he was concerned about Rose.

"Oh goodness Rose…are you all right? Shit…I'm so sorry…I lost my balance there…"

Yet, judging from the sounds of Rose's laughter, he knew she was all right, and couldn't help smiling.

Rose simply leaned her head on Cal's chest as they laid together, closing her eyes, her head still spinning, and then brought herself up slightly to look into his eyes.

"I'm more than fine, Cal," she said, still giggling, and Cal couldn't help grinning yet again, before finally leaning up himself and kissing her.

Jack and Cosette passed them, and both of them couldn't help laughing as Jack smirked good-naturedly at them.

"I do believe we won…and wow. The rumors are true…first-class people really can't hold their alcohol well!"

Cal nodded. "I do believe you're right…believe me."

And, as the band only continued to play, Cal couldn't help laughing again, before resting his head on his arm, staring at the ceiling, the room admittedly spinning for himself as well, drawing Rose back down towards him.

Rose sighed contentedly as she snuggled her head into his chest, and they simply stayed like that for awhile.

After, Cal was sitting with Fabrizio and Jack, talking, while Rose was sitting at a nearby table with Helga and Cosette, happily chatting away.

Jack raised his glass. "A toast…to the beautiful women in our lives who somehow love us even though we're all idiots."

Cal grinned. "I cannot argue with you there…I certainly am an idiot. Cheers."

They all clinked glasses, then, and Cal downed his beer.

Jack watched, impressed.

"I have to admit…you definitely could outdrink me and Fabri easy, Cal."

Fabrizio said, "Yes, you could. Though anyone could outdrink you, Jack. Even Cosette!"

They all laughed again, and Cal said, "I am pretty tough for a first-class guy, then? I consider that a compliment. And here…I'll buy the next round, on me."

Jack said, "Oh, Cal…you don't have to do that…you're our guests, not the other way around…"

Cal couldn't help shaking his head. "Oh, it's more than fine. Anything for some friends. And say…how would you all like to join me and Rose tomorrow night for dinner in first-class? Our treat, of course. It would only be an honor to repay your invitation."

Both Jack and Fabrizio looked shocked, yet Jack couldn't help smiling genuinely.

"Gosh, Cal…that'd be great! Thank you!"

Cal smiled himself. "Do not mention it. And I could help you two out with tuxedos…my beautiful Rose could help Helga and Cosette out with dresses and such…I think you'll enjoy it very much. And everyone at our table is very nice…not all of us are snobby and stuck-up!"

Jack grew serious. "Aw, no, Cal…you and Rose are both very nice. Honest. And good, decent people. Don't let Tommy get to you."

Cal felt himself grin again. "Oh…he's not. But if he'd like to, he's more than welcome to join us as well. And, say…honestly this will probably seem really out of the ordinary, considering all of us just met tonight…but once the trip is over, we should all exchange addresses, or at least keep in contact. Once we are married, me and Rose would be honored to have you all come and stay with us for a little while back home in Philadelphia. We could all do things, like go to the amusement park or swim and whatnot. It'll be our treat."

Watching the two younger third-class men exchange shocked looks, it honestly was almost comical.

Sputtering a little Jack said, "Jesus…thank you so much, Cal! We honestly don't know what to say…"

Cal laughed. "Well say yes!"

Jack and Fabrizio both laughed, and Jack shook Cal's hand.

"You've got a deal!"

"Excellent! Now…I'll go get us some more beer!"

Still laughing, Cal got up and retrieved three more heaping glasses, yet was accosted by none other than Tommy Ryan, holding his own glass, still glowering at him.

Cal couldn't help but grin. "Hello again. Would you care to join us?"

Yet Tommy only shook his head in disgust. "I'd rather piss on me boots."

At the younger man's words, Cal couldn't help his grin from growing even wider.

"You hate me, don't you? I completely understand why, of course, as I am an utter idiot…but I'm really not that bad!"

However, the young Irishman was not in any way amused.

Cal only shook his head, still laughing, before heading back to their table.

"Well if you change your mind, we're over there."

But Cal was honestly surprised when Tommy suddenly followed him back to the table.

Cal set the glasses on the table.

Slamming his glass down, Tommy said, "I challenge you to an arm wrestle, Mr. Fancy Pants. May the better man win. I bet you won't last even ten minutes, all of you men up in first-class are so weak."

Jack said, "Tommy, seriously! Stop! You're just being an ass. I'm so sorry, Cal…"

Yet Cal couldn't help from grinning.

"It's more than fine, Jack. And challenge accepted, Tommy. May the better man win."

Cal held out his hand, and though Tommy stared at it with the utmost disgust for a moment, finally he grudgingly shook it.

Cal rolled up his white shirt-sleeves, causing Tommy to roll his eyes, and to mutter.

"Priss," he said, and Cal could only laugh.

Finally, Cal spoke, resting his elbow on the table.

"Ready?" Cal said, and Tommy rolled his eyes once more in response.

Jack said, "Tommy…if he beats you…and he probably will, honestly…you have to leave us alone for the rest of the night."

Tommy only narrowed his eyes at Jack. "Oh piss off, Dawson."

Jack rolled his eyes as well, and said, "All right…on the count of three."

Jack counted, and then, finally, Cal and Tommy grasped hands, beginning the struggle.

Tommy was very strong, admittedly, and very large and stocky in comparison to Cal's tall, lean, slender frame, but Cal was very strong himself, and in good physical condition, despite his consumption, of course, and Cal easily was able to keep his arm steady.

Tommy, though, only stared at him the whole while with hate in his eyes.

"Are you afraid I'll tear your arm out of your socket yet?"

Cal couldn't help from laughing yet again. "Not at all, though I have to admit, my beautiful Rose wouldn't like that at all."

Jack and Fabrizio laughed, though, predictably, Tommy did not. He only gritted his teeth.

But…finally…Cal could feel Tommy's arm weakening under his strong, skilled push, and Tommy's hand slowly but surely began heading toward the dark wooden table.

Tommy swore in response, and Cal could tell he was trying with all of his strength for it not to happen…yet, finally, Tommy swore loudly again, and Cal finally succeeded in pushing his hand down, thereby winning.

Cal smiled, before taking another sip of beer, and Tommy honestly looked shocked, for one moment, speechless.

"Shit…you…"

Yet he still could not get the words out.

Cal clapped him on the shoulder, gently, setting his beer glass down.

"That was honestly a very tough competition," he said sincerely. "I thought for sure I was going to lose to you."

Tommy still seemed lost for words, aghast that a first-class man had actually beaten him.

Jack teased, "Tommy…wow. I think this is the first time you've ever been speechless that doesn't involve women!"

Fabrizio laughed loudly.

Tommy did not, however, even respond to his friend's ribbing.

Finally, he did speak.

"Geez…a first-class man who honestly isn't a priss…or full of himself! You…you didn't even taunt me, or insult my being poor after winning, like every other first-class man I've ever fought or come across in me lifetime! I…I can't believe I'm saying this…but I'm honestly sorry! I never apologize…but…you…you and your fiancée really are all right."

Cal couldn't help from smiling. "It's quite all right, sir…I assure you. I completely understand. Me and Rose cannot stand a good number of people in our class back home."

And Cal reached into his pocket and pulled out ten dollars, handing the bill to Tommy.

Tommy grinned.

"Here…that's for beating me. But I'm sure we all wouldn't mind if you used that to buy the four of us even more alcohol," Cal joked.

Tommy's grin grew, and he said, "I'll consider it."

Jack said, "So does that mean you'll be joining me, Fabrizio, Cosette and Helga tomorrow for dinner in first-class with Cal and Rose, and to stay with them for a little vacation once he and Rose are married and settled down in Philadelphia where they live, since he was so kind as to extend an invitation to us all?"

Again, Tommy's eyes grew wide, and he slowly shook his head.

"R…really, sir? You'd…you'd be all right with that?"

Cal grinned again. "Of course. The more the merrier, they say."

Tommy slowly shook his head. "All right…I'm even sorrier now. And gosh…in all of us you and Rose both have loyal friends for life."

Cal laughed. "Excellent."

And with that, they slowly all resumed sitting and talking once more.

Rose couldn't help laughing with Cosette and Helga.

It was so nice to have two new friends who weren't mean and snobby girls, like back home in first-class!

Cosette said, "Oh…your outfit is so beautiful! I just can't get over how gorgeous it is! And your Cal is a very nice and handsome man…you are just as lucky as me and Helga!"

Rose laughed, blushing a little. "Yes…I certainly am. And oh, thank you…but honestly I much prefer your dress, Cosette! It's so simple and pretty! And I love your black dress with the white apron, Helga. Truthfully I'd rather wear both of your outfits than some of mine."

Both Cosette and Helga exchanged shocked looks.

"But…our dresses are so plain! They can't possibly be very pretty," Helga said.

Rose smiled. "They certainly are, and you two are just as pretty."

Helga and Cosette both smiled, too.

"You're very beautiful…honestly I wish I looked like you," Cosette said.

Rose laughed. "Oh…you two are just as beautiful in your own way, and believe me…some of the girls back home who are my age wear too much makeup…it's honestly sickening."

Both Helga and Cosette laughed.

Helga spoke. "You and Cal are both very nice…I am so glad that we all were able to meet."

Rose warmly smiled. "I am as well…it is so nice to not be around all the awful first-class people back home. Truthfully, if it were not for my Cal, I would hate being rich even more."

Realizing how her words had sounded, she quickly said, "Oh…I'm so sorry…I didn't mean…I know you two must be thinking poor little rich girl…what does she know about misery…I'm so sorry…"

Yet both Cosette and Helga laughed again.

"Oh…we don't think that at all, Rose. I am sure being rich comes with its own set of problems, just like being poor does," Cosette said kindly, and Helga nodded.

Rose smiled, relieved. "Good, I'm glad. But anyway…tell me…what will both of your weddings be like? Cosette, you and Jack make a darling couple, and so do Fabrizio and you, Helga."

Cosette blushed, and she said, "Oh…I just love my Jack so much. It'll be simple…like I want it to be…in fact I may just wear this dress…it is the best one I own…he is a wonderful artist, and I would like to be a ballet dancer…but in the mean time, he and I plan to get married in New York right away…I cannot wait."

Rose smiled, clapping her hands. "Oh…ballet was actually one of the few activities I most enjoyed at finishing school! And that's so beautiful, truly! And you, Helga? What will your wedding be like?"

Glancing at her beloved, Helga blushed as well and said, "Oh…it'll probably be like this one…the celebration part, at least!"

They all laughed.

Continuing, her blush growing as she looked at Fabrizio, who warmly smiled at her from where Cal, Jack, Fabrizio and Tommy sat, Helga said, "Like you two, I love my Fabrizio so much…and we plan to start a family right away once we are settled. I truthfully cannot wait, either."

Rose laughed. "Oh I'm so happy for the three of us!"

Both Helga and Cosette smiled, and they all continued to talk, gushing excitedly.

The conversation lulling for just a moment, Tommy said, "If you don't mind my saying so, Cal, your Rose is very beautiful. You are a lucky man."

Cal couldn't help from smiling brilliantly in agreement at Tommy's words as he finally made eye contact with Rose, who blushed.

"Yes…I certainly am the luckiest man who ever lived, to have my beautiful, perfect angel named Rose," he said, loud enough so she could hear, and he raised his glass to her.

At his words, Rose felt herself blush violently, and felt butterflies swarm in her stomach, yet she shyly smiled.

Both Helga and Cosette smiled kindly.

"Oh…you love him so much, Rose, and he loves you so much! It's truly like a fairytale come true. You two make a very cute couple!"

Finally managing to tear her eyes away from Cal, though it was difficult, Rose smiled again, sill blushing, and said, "Oh…thank you both very much. And yes…I truly, truly do, as you can see…I'm blushing like an idiot…"

They all laughed, then, and gradually time passed as the conversation shifted in topic.

Finally, Rose couldn't help but blush violently yet again as Cal came forward and, again, lifted her up in his strong, warm, comforting arms.

Both Helga and Cosette smiled adoringly.

Smiling widely himself, Cal said, "I'm terribly sorry, ladies, but may I please borrow my lovely Rose for a moment? I was hoping to dance with her again."

Cosette said, "Oh please, go! I hope you enjoy yourselves."

Rose, still blushing, feeling faint, said, "Oh…we will."

And, again, Rose couldn't help but laugh as Cal, once more, carried her out to the dance floor, the band still in full swing.

As they, once again, began to move faster and faster, Cal could not contain his smile, and Rose could not contain her euphoria.

And, stopping suddenly, Rose was rendered even more breathless as Cal leaned in and kissed her deeply, dipping her backwards, making her feel as though she was flying even more, the sounds of Fabrizio, Jack, Tommy, Helga and Cosette clapping and cheering evident, before he finally broke the kiss.

Cal gently caressed her face, shaking his head, still unable to believe his good fortune.

"I love you so much, Rose," he said, and Rose honestly could have cried, she was so happy in that moment.

"Not as much as I love you, though, I'm afraid," she said, gently teasing, and again, Cal's smile was so beautiful it made her heart honestly hurt.

And, again, staring at him…Rose felt again the violent stabs of fear and heartbreak as she realized that eventually she would lose him…but she was thrown for a loop again when Cal winked at her and they finally began moving once again…and so she forced the awful feelings down and simply lived in the moment with him, and reveled in being so close to him as the room spun and they seemed to dance in the orbit of the sun.

Rose was still breathless as they finally returned to the first-class promenade deck, still laughing.

"Oh Cal…goodness…that was so very enjoyable! And I cannot wait for when they visit with us in Philadelphia…"

Cal grinned. "As can't I! And goodness…I'm certainly feeling the alcohol now."

Again, Rose laughed, and the sound was so beautiful to him it honestly made Cal's heart hurt.

Yet, silence gradually fell, and they both realized they were completely alone now.

The golden sun was just beginning to set, and though the air was cold, it really wasn't dreadfully uncomfortable.

Yet…staring at her, again, Cal felt his heart absolutely twist with just how much he loved her, and suddenly, he wanted nothing more than to kiss her.

Rose said, "Oh goodness…the sunset looks so beautiful, doesn't it?"

Cal gently moved a strand of hair out of her face. "Not nearly as beautiful as you are, Rose darling," he said softly.

The blush on her face honestly rivaled the violent orange of the setting sun in brightness.

Suddenly struck with emotion, Cal softly said, "Darling? May I?"

Confused, Rose said, "Of course, Cal…but whatever do you mean…?"

Cal only leaned in and kissed her, before gently picking her up again in his arms.

Rose laughed. "Goodness! Cal…whatever are you…"

Unable to contain his own grin, Cal said, "Will you close your eyes, please, darling?"

Still confused, blushing a little, Rose said, "Al…alright."

And she did so, and Cal gently carried her to the bow of the ship.

Rose couldn't help nervously giggling, and she said, "Oh Cal…what are you doing? Not that I don't immensely enjoy this, of course."

Cal laughed. "No peeking, darling, or I'll throw you overboard."

Rose laughed in earnest at his joke.

His smile growing, Cal gently set her down on her feet once again, wrapping both of his hands around her waist.

"Do you trust me, Rose?" he asked softly, growing serious, and Rose nodded.

"With all of my heart," she said, though somewhat shakily, and Cal, again, felt his heart skip.

"Please…step up onto the railing," he said softly. "It'll be worth it, I promise."

Rose's heart hammering against her ribs, especially from his warm, gentle, loving touch on her waist, she couldn't help but blush again.

Yet she smiled, and gently stepped up, still blind, Cal helping her.

Smiling, Cal stepped up too, holding her firmly and protectively, so she wouldn't fall, and then he finally whispered, "Open them now, Rose."

Finally, Rose did open her eyes, and could not help but gasp.

The two of them were standing on the bottom railing of the bow, and honestly…it was as though they were flying.

The ship was slicing rather fast throughout the water, and refreshing, cold fresh air was whipping around them.

The sight of the beautiful, pure ocean was all they could see, and the sky was so beautiful with the blood-orange sun slowly sinking beneath the clouds that Rose was speechless.

It felt so freeing…and she felt so beautiful and loved, now, with Cal just then…

"Oh, Cal…I'm flying!" she said, unable to contain her delight, and she couldn't help stretching out both of her arms, laughing a little, her white scarf billowing prettily in the breeze.

Cal's own heart was pounding with just how especially beautiful she looked, against the setting sun, and he was suddenly struck with emotion, unable to stop his voice from cracking, at just how much he loved her.

"I love you…so much, Rose. With all my heart," he said, and Rose turned, feeling tears reach her eyes.

"Oh, Cal…I love you, too. And nothing will ever change that."

Rose blinked, and to her embarrassment, her tears fell, yet Cal gently wiped them away, before finally leaning in and kissing her deeply.

Rose's heart fluttered, and Cal simply wished they could stay like this forever.

And so the two of them simply stayed like that, kissing for what seemed wondrous, beautiful hours, suspended on the bow, both of their hearts and souls flying together, as the sun slowly sank beneath the clouds.

Though the both of them, so wrapped up in their joy, were blissfully unaware that this would be the last time Titanic would ever see daylight, and that in just a few hours, they would all be in mortal peril.

Rose gently laughed, as Cal had insisted upon carrying her back to her bedroom.

And Cal, though deliriously happy, was unable to prevent a tide of nerves.

He just hoped Rose would like the necklace he had bought for her…or rather, would hopefully love it.

Finally, they reached her bedroom, and he gently set her down on the bed, kissing her cheek.

"Wait right here, darling," he said, smiling gently. "I'll be right back."

Rose could only laugh once more, gently, before he disappeared.

Heart hammering against his ribs, he went into the main room and opened the safe.

Withdrawing the Heart of the Ocean, he sincerely, sincerely, hoped she would love it.

He finally, however, re-entered the bedroom, and closed the door behind them.

Rose could not help her eyes from widening.

"Goodness…Cal, what ever is that?"

Unable to keep his hands from shaking slightly as he opened the large box, Cal simply spoke, also unable to contain his emotion.

"I…I was planning on saving this for your eighteenth birthday, darling…but I…I just love you so much, Rose, and I…I hope that you love this. I…I never dreamed that you would ever feel the same way for me, much less after discovering I am ill and am dying…but…somehow, miraculously, you do, and I…I cannot say enough about just how much I love you. You are truly the love of my life, Rose, and I cannot wait to marry you."

Looking at Rose, he saw tears gathering in her eyes, and his heart lurched violently.

He went forward and bent down on one knee, in front of the bed.

Cal opened the box, and he had to admit, he was encouraged at her shocked gasp.

Still speaking, he said, "I…it's blue, the same as your beautiful eyes…and I…it was originally created by King Louis XVI of France…it's called Le Couer De La Mer…the Heart of the Ocean."

But she still wasn't saying anything, which only made his heart skip again in nervousness.

Feeling awful, he said, "I…you hate it…I'm so sorry, darling...I…I will get you another necklace, one to your liking…I'm so sorry…"

Yet at Cal's words, Rose finally found it within her to speak.

Her tears finally spilling out, Rose said, "Oh, Cal…oh goodness…I'm so sorry! I don't hate it…not at all! I just can't believe you bought such a beautiful necklace for me…I've never seen anything so beautiful in all my life! I love you so much!"

Relief and happiness twisting his heart, Cal smiled, and spoke, his voice breaking once again, tears reaching his own eyes.

"I just love you so much, Rose…I'd do anything to make you happy…"

Rose tearfully sobbed a little. "Oh…you already do. Truly, Cal."

And here she leaned forward and kissed him. Cal saw stars.

Wiping away her tears, Cal said, "Stand up for me please, darling. Let's see how it looks."

And he gently removed it from the box, standing. Rose did as well.

Her hands shaking, Rose lifted up her hair as Cal gently fastened the heart-shaped necklace around her neck.

Looking in the mirror, Rose was honestly still in shock that he thought she deserved to wear anything as beautiful as this…

Cal's breath caught in his throat as he looked at her.

"The necklace certainly pales in comparison to you, darling. Truly…"

Rose blushed, looking down, before looking up at him again.

Her heart still hammering, she gently kissed him and the room spun.

Tears spilling out yet again, Rose said, "Make love to me Cal. Please. I just love you so much," she said, her voice breaking.

Cal only gently shook his head, before a few of his own tears escaped.

Rose wiped them away, and finally he spoke.

"I love you so much, Rose. I will never tire of telling you just how much I do, or showing you, in the short time we'll have together…"

Rose blushed through her tears, and shakily smiled.

"I know…oh I know, Cal…."

And finally, his self-restraint and the ability to form proper words finally failed Cal, and he leaned forward and kissed her.

Rose knew it would hurt, still, as she was still sore, but she did not care…it would be more than worth it, and only melted into his kiss, as everything else faded away but the two of them.

And finally, Cal broke away from her and gently removed the necklace, putting it back in the box, softly kissing her neck, before gently lifting her and carrying her to his own bedroom, locking the door behind them.

After, Rose only gently drew circles on his bare chest, as Cal simply held her.

Her face was still on fire, but she could not help smiling.

Cal gently caressed her cheek.

"You're an angel sent from Heaven above, darling. My own personal one, I like to think," he said softly, gently smiling, and she blushed even deeper.

"Hardly…but thank you very much," she said, and Cal kissed her cheek, before she sighed.

The fire roaring in the fireplace was wonderfully warm, and Rose never in her life had been so content.

And Cal for his part was in utter heaven…and he truthfully never wanted to move.

But Cal was just about to speak, yet again, when, suddenly, the both of them were shocked by a violent rocking of the ship, the bed even shaking just a little.

Rose gasped, and Cal gently grabbed onto her, shocked himself.

"What in the world…oh Rose, are you all right?"

Confused herself, Rose nodded, to his instant relief.

"Yes…yes of course…goodness…what in the world was that?"

Truthfully a little worried, Cal said, "I haven't the faintest idea, darling, but after our dinner is brought up, I will go and look…I'm sure it is nothing, though. Perhaps the waves are getting a little rough."

Rose nodded.

But suddenly, they heard a knock on the door, and Cal smiled.

"Aha! That's probably our room service now! I'll go and get it…"

Throwing on a robe, Cal smiled at the man bearing their dinner on a cart.

"Thank you, sir," he said, and the man smiled as well, though Cal had to admit that he looked a little worried.

"Enjoy your meal, sir. Have a wonderful evening."

And he rushed off, before Cal could reply.

Still perturbed, Cal pushed the cart into the bedroom, and he could see the same exact worry and confusion in Rose's eyes that he knew was in his own.

But Cal said, "Oh…I'm sure it is nothing, darling. I'm sure we have nothing to worry about. But this is good practice…I'll have to get used to serving you breakfast in bed almost every day."

Thankfully, Rose laughed, and he felt himself grin, and the two of them ate dinner.

Sometime later, though, again, there was a knock at the door, and Cal again threw on his robe, drawing it tightly around him.

The elderly man who worked on the ship spoke, his gray hair standing on end and his glasses crooked. He looked worried and out of breath.

"I am terribly sorry to disturb, you, sir, but we must ask that you get dressed and make your way to the main dining room, and don your lifejackets. It is quite cold tonight as well, so please dress in your absolute warmest clothes. There is no reason for panic…but there is a slight issue that occurred on our voyage. Again, everything will be fine…but I do suggest topcoats and hats. All of you will unfortunately have to spend a great deal of time outside, for at least a little bit, while we get this sorted out."

And with that, the man went on his way, and Cal honestly did not believe that there was no reason to be panicked, as the man looked entirely too scared for there not to have been an issue.

Getting a very bad feeling, Cal slowly closed the door, and turned to look at Rose.

"It…it'll be all right, darling," he said, hoping it would be.

Luckily Rose nodded, and Cal spoke once again.

"Let's get dressed, and see what happened…I'll meet you and Trudy in the main stateroom."

Rose nodded again, still speechless, and Cal quickly went over and kissed her, hoping to soothe her.

"It'll be all right, Rose. I'm sure of it," he said, and at his words, Rose felt at least a little comforted, before she finally nodded, her mind still in panic.

And, as Cal finished dressing, pulling on his warmest wool coat, he sincerely hoped that everything truly would be all right, and that Rose would be safe, above all.