When Emma woke up, she was subjected to knowing that Ben was gone. Away from Virginia. America. To his possible death. It had all been too much. In the last three years she had lost her grandfather, Curt, parents, brothers, and husband. She knew they weren't really gone except Grandpa and Curt, but there were always risks.

But she had promised to stay strong for the sake of her daughter and baby. Until this dreadful war was over and everyone could come home.


Emma walked with Elizabeth, Serena and Jeffrey to school. Ginny and John Curtis tagged along as well. Part of the reason for this trip was that John Curtis wanted to see what school was like before he started in September. Emma had been keen to visit Mrs Fordwick (The old Miss Hunter who had married the Reverend).

When they got there, Serena instantly ran up to seven year old Mary Margaret, the Fordwick's only child. Even though she was four years older, the two girls were firm friends. Jeffrey ran to a group of boys, but Elizabeth took the three tag-alongs into the school house were Mrs Fordwick sat.

"Hello, Mrs Fordwick." Emma said pleasantly, and smiled as her old teacher looked up.

"Emma! Oh, how Ginny has grown." Mrs Fordwick gushed. "I apologise that I haven't been over to see you much. I heard Ben left."

Emma nodded slowly, and Elizabeth walked forward. "Mrs Fordwick, John Curtis wanted to see the schoolhouse before he started." John Curtis was over the moon that he got to stay for the first lesson, and be Mrs Fordwick's special helper for that period of time.


Jonsey, Jim Bob and Paul came over for supper. Paul seemed on edge, and he kept fiddling with something in his pocket. Emma couldn't keep the smile off her face. Erin was oblivious, as she flirted away with her boyfriend. Jonsey, ever the charmer, had often tried to pursue Mary Ellen, she secretly liked him but wouldn't let on.

"This tastes wonderful, Mary Ellen." Jonsey complimented.

Mary Ellen raised an eyebrow. "Oh? Erin made it."

"Thanks, anyway," Erin giggled awkwardly as Jonsey went red.

Jim Bob and Elizabeth started dancing comically around after they ate, Serena and Jeffrey tried to imitate them. As did John Curtis and Ginny. Emma tried hard not to feel a little jealous as Paul and Erin along with Mary Ellen and Jonsey joined in. She was the only one without a partner, and it hurt. It hurt real bad.

Her thoughts were interrupted when Paul swallowed hard and got down on one knee in front of Erin. 'Erin, I know we have only known each other for two years, but I love you. Will you do me the honour of being my wife?"

Erin smiled, burst into tears, and nodded.