Author's Note:

I hope that everyone is having a wonderful weekend. It's been busy around here with a funeral and a birthday party plus a little one who doesn't want to sleep longer than an hour or so at time for nap. Gotta love toddlers! Anyway, thank you so much for the reviews for Chapter 18 and for the support! In the last chapter, a man named "Jack" was mentioned in the final words. This refers to the villain in The Last Resort. When choosing who was going to be Mr. Preston, I could only use one of four books that actually had Ned in the story line: Shock Waves, The Last Resort, Dangerous Games, and Dead On Arrival. Each one has a great story but only TLR had the right person that matched the description of Mr. Preston. Plus the whole thing with the cabin and Ned getting upset with Nancy led me to choose Jack Treyford. I hope that explains a little bit more.

To continue on, I must warn you about this chapter. It's rather sad at times (sorry rose12) but I'm sure you will still enjoy it. This one was easier to write for some strange reason but the ending is slightly different than I wanted it to be originally. What I had planned will be in the next chapter though. I felt that where I ended this time around was much better in comparison. Well, I'm getting a little winded here and possibly giving away too much so I will end now. Enjoy the chapter and don't forget to leave your mark! Until next time, tootles!

Chapter Nineteen

The very next day opened with a storm bringing a melancholy to the air. The cheerfulness of the previous day was replaced by somberness. No one said anything as they all prepared for what was to be a long and emotional day. Frank stared at himself in the mirror, fixing his tie. He could never really get it just right. Frustrated, Frank threw the tie onto the bed and sighed. He hated ties anyway.

"Let me help," replied a soft voice. He turned to see Nancy standing at the door, a small smile etched on her face. She was beautiful in a black ruched dress that accentuated her figure. It was long-sleeved though slightly off-the-shoulder, displaying the locket around her neck. Although she covered her facial stitches with a flesh-colored bandage, her strawberry blond hair was maneuvered just right to cover the area of her face. She held a small clutch tightly in her hands.

Frank watched her every move as she walked slowly toward him, dropping her clutch onto the unmade bed. She picked up the tie and flipped up his collar. As she worked, Frank took her in. He could smell her perfume, teasing his senses. His hands nervously fidgeted at his sides, longing to touch her soft skin. Frank wanted nothing more than to take her in his arms and kiss her but he knew his timing was wrong. He needed to tell her first but it would have to wait until later.

"There," Nancy finally said, patting his chest. She seemed to avoid eye contact with him as she gathered her clutch.

"Wait," Frank said, taking her hand. He struggled to find the words to say. His heart melted as she finally looked up at him, her own blue eyes betraying the conflict within. "Thank you," was all he could say.

"You're welcome," she said softly with a sad smile. Nancy looked like she wanted to say more but she stopped herself, turning away.

Frank followed her downstairs to where the most of his family, Hannah, and Nancy's Aunt Eloise, who arrived the night before, were waiting. Eloise smiled as Nancy stepped into the room and came over to her, wrapping her arms around the young woman. Joe was nearby, fidgeting with his suit, his grumbles incoherent. Vanessa stood next to him, brushing off his shoulders.

Fenton came in the back door, an umbrella in his hand. "Everyone ready?"

"Do we have to go?" Joe asked.

"Joe!" cried Laura. Vanessa rolled her eyes. Nancy cracked a smile and looked away to hide it. She couldn't blame him for thinking the same thing she did.

As the group moved outside, two black SUVS were backed into the side driveway, each idling as if waiting for their passengers. Nancy, Hannah, and Eloise took the front car while the Hardys piled into the second one. As the cars pulled out, Nancy held on to both Hannah's and Eloise's hands for comfort. The three were about to endure a long day with attention that they really didn't want along with grief they felt. They talked for a little while but stopped just before their car reached the street leading to where the church was located.

Traffic seemed to be at a standstill as mourners waited in line for a space. Luckily, they had a police escort to guide them toward the front of the church where police barriers blocked off the road, forcing most of the cars to go around a different way. The barriers were opened and their vehicles pulled in front of the church. Nancy immediately noticed the reporters and TV crews across the street, something she was sure that Chief McGinnis had ordered them to do. People streamed into the church though Nancy could not tell as to how many there really there.

Suddenly, Nancy didn't want to get out of the car. She grabbed a hold of Hannah, her anxiety rising. "Was everything taken care of?" she asked. "I don't even know who the pall bearers are. Am I supposed to say something? What do I say? Do we have to go in? Can't we just do this privately?"

"Calm down, dear," Eloise replied, patting Nancy's hand. "I'm sure everything is in order. Right, Hannah?"

"Yes," Hannah nodded, smiling. "Laura helped me with the preparations, Nancy. We made sure of everything." She took hold of Nancy's other hand and gently squeezed. "I know you're anxious. We don't have to go in. I think they will understand."

Nancy sighed and shook her head. "No," she whispered. "I'm fine now. I need to do this. He's not going to win."

"Who's not going to win?" Eloise asked, confused.

"Nothing. It's nothing."

"Are you ready then?" Hannah asked.

The door opened and Fenton looked in, concerned. "Is everything all right?" he asked.

"We're good," Eloise said, taking hold of his hand to get out of the car. Hannah followed when Nancy didn't move to get out.

She looked outside, seeing that the reporters were readying themselves of the possibility of getting a photo of her. She hated the attention but knew it was inevitable as no one had really seen her in weeks. Nancy looked up at the clouds roiling above. The rain had let up on their way to the church but there was still the promise of more later on. Turning back to the open door, someone was holding out their hand to help her out of the car. Grasping it, Nancy looked up to see the caring face of Frank Hardy. As she finally got out of the car, she felt even more as if she were in a cage and everyone was staring at her. Those still walking into the church noticed the cars and had turned to look at who was getting out of them. The Hardys didn't plan a visitation time before the service which Nancy was grateful for. She held onto Frank's arm as they stepped up to the church.

"Not exactly what I envisioned escorting you to a church for," he muttered. She laughed lightly knowing what he meant. Her smiled soon faded at the thought that the other scenario would never happen. The twists of fate changed all possibility of that.

The moment they stepped into the church, the group was greeted with sympathetic nods and stares. Word of their arrival had made it inside the church. More people turned their way as they moved toward the main entrance to the sanctuary. Nancy was shocked when she walked in. Nearly every seat was taken and there were still people filing in behind them. Even the Hardys were awestruck by the sheer magnitude of those wishing to pay their respects for Carson.

As the group moved toward the front of the sanctuary, the mourners seemed to hush as one. Some of them stopped as they passed and gave a solemn nod or smile. It seemed to Nancy as if the entire town turned out but there were others who were present as well. People of position and politicians were also in attendance. Dean and Marcus sat towards the front with Bess and George and their families. Once they were all seated, the service began along with the longest day in Nancy's life.

Nearly two hours later, Nancy stood alone in cemetery, the casket directly in front of her. Those who went with them to the burial had already left for the gathering at the church. Although she had her family nearby waiting for her, Nancy never felt more alone in that moment.

"I'm sorry, Dad," she whispered, her hand reaching out to touch the flowers on top of the casket. Nancy would do anything in that moment for him to be there beside her. "I have my reasons for doing what I'm about to do. I just hope that they one day forgive me. I wish you were here now so that I wouldn't have to do it. I miss you so much!"

Nancy knew there were eyes on her. She just didn't know if any of them had malicious intent toward her. Although she couldn't see them, Nancy knew there were police officers around just in case Ned decided to make an appearance. Fenton had stayed back with Eloise and Hannah while the rest of the Hardys returned to the church for the wake. Nancy sighed, soon feeling a hand on her back. She looked over to see Hannah smiling at her. Even though she appreciated the gesture of comfort from her, Nancy wished it were someone else standing beside her, not just her father.

"Are you ready to go?" Hannah asked softly. Eloise came to Nancy's other side and smiled. She looked at her brother's coffin, shedding several tears.

"Do I have to?" Nancy asked. "I'm not really feeling up to being around people at the moment."

"We don't have to stay long, sweetheart," Eloise replied. "It would just be nice to say thank you to people for coming. It was such a nice service and so many people showed up. We can go home whenever you're ready. I'll stay in your stead afterward but you need to make an appearance even if it's a short one."

Nancy nodded sadly. She looked at the casket one more time and leaned over, kissing her father goodbye. Eloise and Hannah each took a hand and led her back to the car where Fenton and the driver waited patiently. Nancy noticed the elder Hardy's eyes were red rimmed as if he had been crying at some point. She leaned up and gave him a peck on the cheek, thanking him for everything.

Within five minutes, the SUV pulled in front of the church once again though this time there was no one around, including the reporters. The group walked back toward the fellowship hall but stopped when they heard familiar voices coming from down the hall.

Frank and Joe sat at a table together, the younger Hardy searching for his wife who had disappeared soon after they arrived. He looked over at his brother and frowned. Frank was deep in thought, his chin resting on his hand, fingers drumming.

"When are you going to talk to Nancy?" Joe asked. Frank's eyes shifted in his direction as if Joe was an irritation.

"Since when are you so interested in my love life?"

"Since I was born," he stated. Joe narrowed his eyes. "So?"

"I'm not going to do anything just for you, Joe," Frank replied, annoyed. "I'll do it when I'm ready. Does it seem to you that Nancy and Dad are acting strange lately though?"

"I've noticed Van acting weird but Dad?" Joe said, noticing the sudden change in subject but didn't object. "I didn't notice. How do you mean though?"

"I can't quite put my finger on it but it's just…" Frank shook his head. "Ever since that day they went to see Bess and George, they've been acting weird. Plus Dad had a recorder out early this morning. I could have sworn I heard Nancy's and Ned's voices as if they were in an argument. I don't remember that happening."

"You're being paranoid, big brother," Joe sat back in his chair. "If you're so interested, why don't you just ask Bess and George about it. Maybe they noticed the change when Nancy was visiting them."

"Maybe I will," Frank nodded. He noticed Joe had taken an interest in something behind him and turned to see Vanessa walking toward them, looking a little nauseous. Joe got up and rushed over to wife.

"What's wrong? You feeling okay?" he asked, concerned.

"I don't know," Vanessa shook her head. Joe guided her down to the seat next to his and sat down himself. "One moment I'm fine and the next….bleh! I haven't even eaten that much today either!"

"What are you pregnant or something?" Frank joked. His smile soon faded as he saw the looks on Joe's and Vanessa's faces. "What?"

"I thought you were on the pill!"cried Joe, looking back at Vanessa. Her face went white in shock. Several people around them looked at the trio scandalously.

"I was!" Vanessa cried, trying to keep her voice down. "I mean, I am!"

"You stopped?" Joe cried again. "Vanessa, I thought we agreed we were going to wait!"

"I didn't stop necessarily," Vanessa said. "I only missed a few days two or three months ago, I can't remember. I ran out and couldn't get to the pharmacy. Besides, I'm probably not!"

"Why are you getting upset, Joe?" Frank asked. "Shouldn't you be happy about this?"

"Stay out of this, Frank!" Joe said angrily. He turned his attention back to Vanessa. "How do you know you're not? Did you take a test?"

"What is going on over here?" cried Laura, rushing over to them. "Show some respect, you two! You're at a wake!"

"It's not me, Mom," Frank said defensively. He pointed to Joe. "It's them."

"Well, your father's on his way back right now so I would suggest that you clear up whatever it is that's bugging you," Laura said in a hushed voice. She noticed Vanessa in tears, and wrapped her arm around her, giving her youngest a dirty look. "Outside, NOW. You too, Frank."

Silently, the brothers got up and followed their mother into the hallway where she continued to comfort Vanessa. "What did you do, Joe?" Laura cried.

"Nothing!" he protested.

"It's a misunderstanding, that's all," Vanessa replied, wiping her face. Joe made a scoffing noise.

"What are they talking about?" Laura asked Frank. He started to walk away quickly but she was able to catch him. "Frank?"

"It's none of my business!" he cried. "Frankly, I don't even want to know."

"Know what?"

"Dad! Nancy!" Frank looked over his mother's shoulder. He seemed more happy to see them than answering Laura's uncomfortable questions. "You're back!"

Laura turned around to see Fenton, Nancy, Hannah, and Eloise coming down the hall. "What's going on?" Fenton asked, looking at his family. "What are you doing out here?"

"The boys were having an argument…" Laura began.

"I told you I had nothing to do with it!" Frank cried, interrupting her.

"Okay, fine. It was just a lover's quarrel," Laura sighed. "I heard them arguing across the room and kicked them all out. What was I supposed to do?"

Vanessa was standing with her back to Joe, her arms folded in front of her. "I said I was sorry, Van," Joe pleaded.

Frank and Fenton exchanged looks before they took hold of Joe's arms, leading him away from Vanessa. "Let's go have a chat, Joe," Fenton replied. "Maybe you can explain to me what's going on."

"Are you sure you're okay?" Laura asked once the three were gone. "Is there something I can do for you?"

"I just want to be alone for a little bit," Vanessa answered sadly, looking at the ground.

"Oh, okay, dear," Laura said, patting her arm. "Let me know if there's anything I can do." She went back into the hall, Hannah and Eloise following her.

Nancy was about to go with them but she hung back. She felt like she needed to stay with her instead of going inside. Nancy touched Vanessa's arm and the woman looked up at her, tears welling in her eyes. "He was so mean," Vanessa whispered.

"There must be something that brings out the stupid in those two when it comes to love and relationships," Nancy replied with a small smile. "I'm an expert at noticing it in Frank. It's like he wants to put his foot in his mouth every time he sees me."

Vanessa laughed. "Joe has been insensitive lately too but mostly to Frank, not me. He keeps picking on him about you and I've been trying to stop Joe from doing that. What I just don't understand why Joe would be angry with me about this."

"Angry about what?"

Vanessa walked over to the bench nearby and sat down. She laid her hands in her lap, fidgeting. Nancy gently placed her hand on Vanessa's and squeezed comfortingly. Vanessa explained about the argument and about her frequent trips to the bathroom, mainly to throw up. Nancy's face lightened a bit.

"I think he's scared," she replied with a smile. Vanessa laughed. Nancy got up and held her hand out. "Come on. Let's go for a walk."

"But aren't you supposed to go in" Vanessa asked, looking at her skeptically.

"You and I both know that I don't really want the attention," Nancy replied. "It's like I'm in a petri dish on a magnifier. Besides, no one's going to know we're even gone until we're get back. We can go for a walk and possibly stop by the drug store across the street. You up for it?"

Vanessa laughed and shook her head at Nancy's subtly. It was only a matter of minutes that they were gone, having only walked over to the drug store and back. As the two waited in the ladies room, Vanessa looked at Nancy curiously. "If you don't mind my asking, Nancy," she said cautiously, "what is going on between you and Frank? You seem like you really want to be with him but you've been keeping your distance the past few days. Is something going on?"

Nancy sighed and looked away to hide her blushing. She knew eventually the question would arise after her earlier remark about Frank. Nancy just wasn't sure if she could trust Vanessa as she was married to one of the worst secret-keepers in the world. She smiled back at her and took a deep breath.

Joe knocked on the door to the ladies' room. He saw Nancy and Vanessa enter the bathroom twenty minutes before when he came back in from his talk with his dad and brother. Fenton yelled at him more so about the way he reacted to the news rather than anything else. He was actually excited about the possibility of being a grandfather and went into the fellowship hall to tell Laura. Frank stayed outside, wanting to think.

"Vanessa?" he called, knocking again. "Are you in there?"

The door opened and Nancy stepped out, a small smirk on her face. "Hey, Joe," she waved as she walked away.

"Hey, Nan," Joe said. "Is my wife in there? I'm looking for her." Nancy just kept going, ignoring his continued calls to her. She disappeared into the fellowship hall without another word.

"Women," he muttered, rolling his eyes. "Good luck with that one, Frank." He turned around and Vanessa was standing in the doorway, her head cocked as she watched him. "Van! I'm so sorry about what I said! Where did you and Nancy go anyway?"

Vanessa placed her hands on his face and planted a kiss on his lips. When she pulled back, Joe had a funny look on his face. "What was that for?" he asked. Without saying a word, she opened his hand and placed something on it.

"Are you serious?" he said softly after looking down at what she put in his hand.

She nodded then noticed the look on his face and crumbled. "You're mad."

"Why would I be mad?" he cried, sweeping her up and swinging her around. Joe suddenly put her down and cringed. "I shouldn't do that, should I? Oh, my gosh, I'm…This is just...wow. Let's go tell everyone. Wait, we're at a funeral, we shouldn't. Should we? Oh, crap, I think I'm having an aneurysm. Is the room really spinning? Shouldn't you be sitting? Maybe I should too. Oh, my gosh, I think I'm going to be sick."

"Joe, Joe," Vanessa said calmly, taking him by the hand. "You're fine and so am I. We don't have to say anything right away if you don't want to."

"I can't believe it," Joe said, sweeping her up again. "I'm going to be a Daddy!"