I swore when I posted Decisions that I was finished writing Covert Affairs FanFiction for a while. But a couple of scenes flashed through my mind, and I realized I had to write them. This story begins a couple of months after The Decision. Enjoy the fantasy … and please remember that I write these stories for my own amusement. I have no connection with the television show Covert Affairs, except for the greatest admiration for the creativity of the writers and the talent of the cast members who bring the characters to life. Enjoy!

Ode to Joy – Chapter I

Auggie could feel the sun streaming in through the bedroom window on his face. The warmth woke him. He started to roll over but realized Annie had snuggled close to him during the night and had draped her left arm across his chest. Auggie shifted his body slightly and Annie nuzzled closer to him. Her breathing was even and relaxed.

Joan had given them both a three-day weekend off with instructions not to show their faces at Langley until Tuesday. Annie was exhausted after spending the previous week on a mission in Central America, and Auggie was almost as exhausted from refusing to leave the office until she was on her way home safely.

While she slept, Auggie gently and reassuringly rubbed her arm. He smiled, thinking he was always amazed that someone so small and seemingly fragile could be so tough physically, mentally and emotionally. He laid in the sunshine that Saturday morning giving thanks that he'd found the love of his life before he'd turned 40.

Annie let out a soft, contented moan cueing him that she was starting to wake. He followed gently the contour of her arm down to her hand where he felt the engagement ring that he'd presented to her the day she accepted his marriage proposal. His finger circled the stone three times before he caressed her hand. Annie surprised him by turning her hand over and twining her fingers through his.

After more than a few seconds she said hoarsely, "Mornin.' Any idea what the time is?"

Auggie chuckled. "You had me pinned in this position and I couldn't reach my watch or the clock; but since the sun is streaming in the window, I'd say it's after eight thirty."

Annie buried her face in Auggie's shoulder. "I don't want to open my eyes. I want to sleep all day."

"You can do just that, but you're going to have to let me up."

Annie laughed and scooted away from Auggie, releasing him. She raised her head to look at the clock. "It's eight forty-three, Auggie. How do you do that?"

"Just a ninja skill they taught me during training at the Farm. I keep track of times for sunrise and sunset, so I have a pretty good idea of the time when I have a sense of the sun," he explained. "On a cloudy day, it's checking my watch or the clock all the way."

Annie giggled at him and rolled out of bed to pad into the bathroom. When she returned, Auggie got up to use the bathroom. As he closed the door behind him he smiled when he heard Annie crawl back under the comforter. He splashed water on his face and brushed the morning breath out of his mouth and rejoined Annie in the bed. She snuggled close and gave him a warm, sensual hug before relaxing her head on his shoulder and her left hand on his chest. They lay quietly enjoying being together until Auggie put his hand over hers, cleared his throat and asked, "When are we going to pick a date for the wedding so I can slip the amazing wedding band I got you on this finger?" He gently tugged her ring finger.

Annie let out a deep sigh. The thought of planning a wedding and trying to make their diverse families happy was overwhelming to her. "Why don't we pick a date and have one of your judge friends perform the ceremony in his chambers?"

"Annie, I think both sets of parents are expecting a little more than a phone call telling them we went to the courthouse during lunch and got married."

"You're right. I want to BE married to you. I just don't want to plan the wedding. Mom's health isn't the greatest. She's given me some great advice, but she's not up to helping with the running around. Dani can help, but the girls and the catering business have to come first. I can't make an appointment with a planner and then run off to Eastern Europe for two and a half weeks."

"I understand," Auggie said patting her hand, "But we need to pick a date and make some plans, simple though they may be."

Annie raised her head and studied Auggie's expression before she spoke. "Simple? Really? Simple would be ok with you?"

"I'm all about simplicity," Auggie said with an easy smile. "The simpler we make it, the quicker we can tie the knot and start our lives together. So, yes. Simple is fine as far as I'm concerned."

Annie sighed deeply. "I was afraid that with your family background, your mom and dad were expecting the social event of the season. I've been putting things off because I knew I couldn't meet that kind of expectation."

"What do your parents expect?" Auggie asked.

"Mom and Dad don't really expect anything. But they did say they'll help us pay for things. Evidently, they put money away for both Dani's and my weddings," Annie giggled. "Looks like my dowry fund has had a lot more time to earn interest."

"So … where do we start? Date first or decide on a church and see what dates are available?" Auggie asked as he sat up and swung his legs over the edge of the bed.

"That's the problem," Annie explained. "The churches are booked for months out, and so are the reception venues. It just seems like so much work for no more people than we'll be inviting," Annie said as she laid out her clothes on the foot the bed.

Annie straightened up and turned toward the kitchen where Auggie was making coffee. "Aug? How many people are we going to invite?" She walked into the kitchen and repeated the question.

"I heard you the first time," Auggie said quietly. "I was thinking. There's my family, Stu and Barber with their plus ones and definitely Joan and Arthur. Who's on your must-invite list?"

"Well aside from my family, I don't have any good friends left in D.C. Everyone scattered after we graduated from Georgetown," Annie said sadly. "The way I see it, we could have about 20 people at our wedding, if everyone was able to come."

"That's about the same count I come up with," Auggie said as he handed Annie the cup of coffee he'd just poured for her.

"Auggie?"

"You sound like you have an idea."

"I do, but it involves your parents," she said softly and then hesitated. "Do you think your mom and dad would let us get married in their back yard?"

Auggie smiled as he sipped his coffee, knowing his mother would be ecstatic to host their wedding. "Well," Auggie said thoughtfully, "the easiest way to find out is to call her. Are you sure? I wouldn't want us to do anything that would hurt your mother's feelings?"

"My mother would be fine. She's living in that condo, which is great for retirement but not so great for entertaining more than a few people at a time. We moved with dad's assignments ever couple of years, so I don't have a family home. I think she'll appreciate the significance of our getting married someplace that represents so much stability and your family's history," Annie said. "And, we have to take into account my dad and his new wife."

Auggie nodded, "Ok. If you're sure about this, we'll give her a call today." He set his cup on the counter, wrapped his arms around Annie and gave her a loving hug. They enjoyed the intimacy of a soft, passionate kiss and then held each other.

Annie reached up and kissed Auggie again … this time on the cheek. "Besides," she whispered, "I really like the idea that we'd be getting married in a place that you're familiar with and remember what it looks like."

Auggie was taken aback by Annie's revelation for a moment, but realized she was right. It would be amazing to celebrate their wedding in familiar, intimate surroundings. And, it was made even more special because Annie realized it before he did.

Later in the afternoon, Auggie called his parents on the speakerphone. Amanda Anderson was puttering in the kitchen when the phone rang. When she answered, Auggie asked her if his dad might be available to pick up an extension or if they could talk on a speaker phone.

"Everything OK, Auggie?"

"Never better, Mom. Now, go find Dad."

Amanda took the cordless phone into the family room and asked Fred, who was relaxing with a book, to pick up the line. "Auggie wants to talk to us together."

Fred picked up the receiver, "Auggie? What's happening, Son," he asked lightly.

"Ok. You're both on. Annie and I are here."

Annie chimed in with a cheery, if not nervous, "Hi, there."

"Mom, Dad … we have a favor to ask."

Amanda and Fred looked at each other. Amanda was perplexed, because Auggie hadn't asked for a favor since he was in middle school and needed one of them to drive him and his girlfriend to a school dance or the movies. Fred responded, "Yes. What is it?"

"Well, as you know, we've been thinking about choosing a date and place for our wedding," Auggie explained.

Annie continued, "We'd really like to get married in a setting that has meaning to us and happy memories. At the most, we could have 20 adults and your grandchildren."

Amanda started to beam when she realized what they were about to ask.

Auggie picked up the conversation when Annie paused, "So, Mom, we were wondering if we could get married in your back yard?"

"Oh, kids … you don't know how happy it would make me … us … your dad and me … to host your wedding. You pick the date, and I'll make it happen. Tell me what you want and I'll make it happen," Amanda said enthusiastically.

"Well, we know to stay away from your Memorial Day weekend party," Auggie said in a teasing tone. He patted Annie's knee affectionately before continuing. "We need to check with Joan about when we take the time off, but what do you think about the end of June?"

Annie straighted and whispered loudly, "The end of June? You think we can pull this off by the end of June?"

Auggie was listening to his mother but heard Annie's question. He turned toward her, smiled and nodded the affirmative.

"Amanda?" Annie said leaning in to the speaker, "Are you sure this won't be too much to take on?"

Amanda laughed. "I love that you want to get married here, but I'd feel better if you could come out for a weekend so we can make some decisions together."

Annie thought for a few seconds, "Maybe we can get away next weekend. We could catch a flight late Friday afternoon and come back Sunday afternoon. That would give us all day Saturday and Sunday morning to sort out things."

"Perfect," Amanda said. "I'll make your flight reservations."

"Better wait on that," Annie giggled, "we need to be sure we can get away."

"Let me know Monday," Amanda said. "I'll be praying that we don't have any national security threats that interfere with our plans."

"Mom, if the terrorists know what's good for them they won't interfere with your plans," Auggie interjected.

"That's enough, Auggie," Amanda said sternly but with a touch of humor.

Auggie laughed. "Yes, ma'am. We will let you know as soon on Monday as we can. Love you both." As Auggie prepared to end the call without saying "good bye," Annie said, "Good bye. Thank you. Love you. See you soon."

Amanda and Fred said "good bye" in unison.

Annie and Auggie left the DPD shortly before five on Friday afternoon to make a mad dash to Reagan National for their seven thirty flight to Chicago. Since they would be gone only a couple of days, Auggie convinced Annie to park in short-term parking. Annie grumbled slightly about spending the extra money and Auggie reminded her he had it covered. She was beginning to get used to the idea that Auggie didn't think twice about spending a few extra dollars on little luxuries, so she pulled into the lot and thanked him.

"Don't thank me," he teased. "I'm making it easier on myself by not having to get on one of those blasted shuttle busses." They hurried to the terminal to get their boarding passes and make their way through security. In line, they chatted about what Amanda had planned for them on Saturday and the decisions they had to make. The date was chosen … the last Saturday in June … Joan had approved their leave for the wedding and a brief wedding trip. The one detail that pleased Auggie the most was the fact that his childhood pastor, not long retried, had agreed to officiate at the ceremony.

Standing in the security line, Auggie kept his cane unfolded and visible … even made a point of using it, when under normal circumstances he wouldn't when he was with Annie. The young woman operating the screening machine asked Auggie, "Sir, would you mind folding your cane and putting it in the tub with your other personal effects? We'll have someone help you through."

Auggie smiled in her direction as he folded the cane, placed it in the tub and emptied his pocket contents into the tub. Annie's fingers touched his to let him know she was still close by. She lined him up in front of the scanner and the security person instructed him to walk through. No alarm sounded; and while Annie was screened, Auggie gathered his belongings. Being cleared, also, Annie snatched her bag from the table and checked to be sure Auggie hadn't missed anything from his tub.

"Ready?" Annie asked as she again brushed her hand against his. Auggie easily found her arm and they walked to their gate. Annie scanned the concourse for a place to eat. "Want to split a sandwich? I'm hungry."

Auggie shook his head. "Remember. First Class tickets. They'll give us something to eat on the plane. And if that's not enough, Mom's refrigerator will be filled with our favorite snacks when we get to Glencoe."

"Coffee, then?"

"I never turn down a cup of coffee," Auggie said with a smile.

At the Starbucks, Annie ordered the two cups of coffee and requested a carrier box, so they could go on to their gate and enjoy the coffee while they waited to board. Sipping her coffee and watching the other travelers she realized they had not discussed ground travel when they landed.

"Aug?"

"Humm?"

"Did you rent a car?"

"No. Mom and Dad will pick us up. She insisted, and we aren't going to be there long enough to need an extra vehicle. If we need to go someplace separately, Mom and Dad are comfortable with you driving one of their cars."

"We ought to get out of the airport quickly tonight, then, with no checked bags and no car to pick up," Annie mused and then sighed.

"Tired?" Auggie asked, wrapping his arm around her shoulders.

"A little … and a little overwhelmed at the decisions we have to make tomorrow," she answered as she leaned in to his hug. They waited like that until the gate agent announced boarding would begin shortly.

"Showtime," Auggie said as he pulled out his cane from the outside pocket of his roller bag and unfolded it. The plane was going to be full, but there was plenty of room to put the larger bags in the overhead. Annie stuffed both her travel tote and Auggie's messenger bag under the seat in front of hers to give Auggie plenty of room to stretch his long legs.

They both were startled from dozing when the captain announced that they were preparing to land. Annie's head was resting on Auggie's shoulder. He kissed the top of her head and whispered, "Showtime, again."

Annie groaned as she sat up and pushed her hair out of her eyes. She reached over and brushed her makeup off of Auggie's shoulder. She laughed. "We both look like we've had a long week."

"That's fine," Auggie smiled. "The taxpayers are getting their money's worth out of these two government employees."

When the plane had come to a stop at the jet way, Auggie stood and pulled their bags from the overhead as Annie tugged their small bags from underneath the seat. Waiting for the door to be opened, Annie handed Auggie the messenger bag for him to hang across his body. He felt the pocket of the carry-on to be sure the cane was in its proper place. As he heard the door being opened, Auggie inched back to make room for Annie to step in front of him in the aisle. It was a move they'd perfected over the almost two years of traveling together. He could then easily put his hand on Annie's shoulder and follow her single file out of the plane into the jet way.

Annie moved deliberately up the aisle, stopping for a couple of seconds as a silent cue they'd reached the door and he'd have to step carefully so as not to stumble. They stepped over the threshold into the jet way. In a few more steps, Annie maneuvered to the left of the jet way and stopped. They set down their bags and pulled up the handles. Auggie took her arm and they hurried through the crowd to find Amanda and Fred in the baggage claim area.

Amanda spotted Auggie in the crowd before Annie caught sight of her. Both Auggie and Annie stopped when they heard her yell, "Auggie, Annie," letting her come to them. The petite Amanda Anderson weaved her way through the crush of travelers and threw her arms around the couple for a group hug.

"I never have to worry about locating you in a crowd, Mom. You always find me first."

"Well, you're tall and that makes it easier for me to get a bead on your unruly mop of curly hair."

Auggie smiled self-consciously and ran his fingers through his hair. "Guess it's time to get a haircut? Annie? Why didn't you say something?"

"We've been busy, plus you hadn't reached maximum shagginess," she laughed.

Amanda said Fred was waiting in the car and they followed her to the passenger pick up area. On the drive home, Amanda outlined what they'd be doing the next day. The early morning schedule included meeting with Cynthia, who was excited about doing the wedding cake, and another caterer who would be providing the meal. Cake flavor and style needed to be determined and the menu needed Annie's final approval. Late morning was the trip to the florist. Amanda had set aside a couple of hours in the early afternoon for Annie to meet with the dressmaker who had agreed to make Annie's wedding dress. Saturday evening, Amanda had invited Reverend Nelson and his wife to dinner, so that he would have time to visit with Annie and Auggie.

"Mom, I'm not sure I needed to make this trip," Auggie teased.

Amanda shot him a "mom look" over her shoulder. The tone of her voice mirrored her expression, "You have to approve the flavor of the cake and the menu … and you and Annie need to visit privately with Reverend Nelson. Of course, you have to be here. And, don't you start whining about it either."

Auggie's most charming smile spread across his face. "No whining, Mom. That's a promise."

Before they'd finished breakfast on Saturday Morning, Cynthia arrived with three flavors of wedding cake: lemon zest, almond and vanilla. She unboxed the three miniature tasting cakes and displayed them on the breakfast table. Annie and Amanda oooed and ahhed at the decorated cakes. Fred looked up over his paper, caught a glance of Auggie and let out a hearty laugh. He was setting with an expectant smile and clinching a fork in one hand and a knife in the other.

Amanda let out an exasperated sigh and Annie punched him in the arm and growled, "Oh, har. You think you're funny."

After tasting and considering the cake flavors, Annie decided she liked the lemon best. Auggie said it was her call, because he liked them all. The first decision of the day was made. The second decision was the style of cake, and Annie chose the small three-tier square design and asked Cynthia to surprise her with the way it was decorated.

Amanda reminded them it was time to leave to meet with the caterer. Annie jumped up to retrieve her handbag from the bedroom. Auggie called to her to bring down his cane, since he was being dragged to the caterer. She returned to the kitchen and set the cane on the table with a thud. "There you go."

"A tad touchy?" Auggie asked quietly.

"No. More overwhelmed than anything. I can't imagine what a large wedding would be like. Where's your mom?"

"Waiting for us in the car," Auggie said standing up and picking up the cane. "We'd better get going," he said walking toward the garage. Auggie walked around the front of his mother's SUV and trailed his fingers along the side of the car to the rear passenger door.

As Annie closed the door to the laundry room she looked up to see Auggie opening the rear door. "What are you doing? Why aren't you sitting up front?"

He turned to Annie and smiled. "You and Mom have the menu to discuss. You both know what I like, so I'm sitting in the back to stay out of trouble and out of the way."

After meeting with the caterer, Annie and Amanda dropped Auggie back at the house before leaving again to meet with the dressmaker. Annie explained what she had in mind: Simple lines, V-neck with a deep V in the back made in soft ivory silk. She wanted it to have beading at the waistline. The dressmaker, who specialized in making debutante gowns, sketched what Annie described; and Annie smiled in relief that she understood.

"Mrs. Anderson, your future daughter-in-law certainly knows what she wants and has good taste," the dressmaker told Amanda as she took Annie's measurements.

"Well, she said 'Yes' to my son's proposal. That says a lot, doesn't it?" The two older women exchanged knowing smiles.

Mrs. Watson said she would have the gown ready in three weeks for Annie's first fitting, and then they could do the final fitting a few days before the wedding. They went into the next room filled with fabric samples and the dressmaker pulled about two dozen fabrics that would work best with the design for Annie to make her choice.

Annie considered carefully the shades of off white and ivory and pulled five samples for close inspection. She placed her hand on each sample and swept her fingers gently over the fabric. Annie made a second pass at the samples and pushed two away. She studied the last three, felt them, and closed her eyes and she rubbed them between her fingers.

Mrs. Watson watched … a little confused at Annie's methods. Amanda also watched the selection process, but she understood exactly what Annie was doing. She picking the fabric she felt would be the most pleasing to Auggie. Annie pushed away one sample and picked up the last two and turned to Amanda.

Draping one sample over each shoulder, Annie asked Amanda, "Which one do you think will look better on me?"

Amanda studied her a moment and instructed her to move to the window. Her eyes narrowed and she tilted her head. "Annie, they are both flattering; so you should decide on what you think you'll feel best wearing."

Annie knew what her future mother-in-law was saying and they shared a private smile. Annie reached up to her left shoulder and handed over the lighter-in-color, heavier-weight fabric. "This one," Annie said holding out the fabric.

Mrs. Watson said, "Oh, good. That fabric will be more than perfect for the style you want."

"Now, Amanda tells me you live and work in Washington. Will you be able to make it back in a few weeks for your first fitting? I need time to order the fabric, draft the pattern and do the initial sewing."

"You let me know when it's going to be ready, and I'll work out my schedule to get here as soon as I can," Annie said. "I don't want to worry either of us by waiting until three days before the wedding for a fitting."

Annie fidgeted during the drive back to the Andersons. Finally, Amanda asked what was bothering her. "Oh, I'm worried about meeting with the minister this evening. What if he doesn't think I'm right for Auggie and he doesn't want to marry us?"

Amanda couldn't help but laugh. "Annie, Fred and I couldn't love you more if you were our own daughter. It's obvious to all of us that you and Auggie have a relationship that transcends love. Our pastor won't question whether or not you should get married. I thought it would be nice for him to get to know you just a little before the wedding. We'll have a nice dinner with him and his wife, and then you and Auggie can slip into Fred's office for a little pre wedding visit with him. You shouldn't be stressing about it."

"If you say so," Annie sighed. "I'm afraid he'll be judgmental because I sort of a non-attending Presbyterian … like the rest of my family.

Amanda laughed lightly. "Oh, Annie, we're Methodists. We try not to be judgmental."

Annie glanced toward her future mother-in-law and sighed, "Good to know."

The rest of the ride home, Annie checked over Amanda's list on the clipboard and commented the only other thing on the list was flowers. "If you don't mind, I'll let you and Burma decide on the flowers. But I'd like my bouquet to be calla lilies."

"Callas will be beautiful," Amanda said. "I'll email you what Burma and I settle on. You know you'll have veto power."

"I know," Annie whispered. "It's just that she knows what will be available and freshest for the wedding and you have a better idea about the right colors and scale for the arrangements in the tent. I do want fragrant flowers, though."

When Annie and Amanda returned home, Mildred was busy with dinner preparations, and Fred and Auggie were relaxing in the family room. Annie approached Auggie and in one motion slid her hand and arm across his shoulders and perched on the arm of the oversized arm chair. Auggie continued his conversation with his dad while reaching up and gently patting her hand and giving it a squeeze.

"Did you have a good day?" Auggie asked Annie.

"Yes. Good. We accomplished everything we set out to do," she answered softly. "Now we'll be good to go if I meet with your pastor's approval. I'm going to shower and think about getting dressed."

Annie stopped at the fridge for a bottle of water and chatted with Mildred and Amanda before going upstairs. They shooed her out of the kitchen.

Half an hour later when Auggie opened the door to the bedroom, he expected to hear the rustling noises of Annie getting ready. The scent of her body wash and shampoo was in the air, but the room was still and quiet. "Annie?" Auggie whispered. No response. Auggie lifted his right hand to the wall and felt for the light switch. He checked to see if the light was on. It was not.

"Annie?" he whispered again, "Are you here? Where are you?"

Annie had stretched out on the bed after her shower and had dozed off for a few minutes. Auggie's urgent whispered calls roused her from the unexpected nap and she groaned a "Huh? I'm here."

"Where's here?" Auggie asked with a hint of sarcasm in his voice.

"Lying down," Annie sighed.

Auggie walked toward the bed. When he made contact with the bench at the foot of the bed, he walked around to Annie's side, with his fingers lightly trailing the edge of the mattress for a few inches. He reached out and made contact with her lower leg. The touch surprised Annie and she curled her toes and her breath hitched.

"Hey, you," Auggie said casually, "Are you okay?" Auggie patted her leg lovingly and swept his hand over the mattress to make sure there was room for him to sit. Annie felt the mattress shift with his weight. In a fluid motion, he had his hand on both shoulders and was moving up to her neck and the sides of her face. His presence and touch were soothing and she smiled. Auggie grinned himself when he felt her dimpled smile under his fingers. Then … he stopped. "Are you sure you're feeling okay?" he asked again when his fingers touched the cool washcloth that Annie had draped over her forehead.

"I had a little headache, so I took some medicine and wanted to rest a few minutes," she admitted. "I think I had to make too many decisions today, and then I got to thinking how we haven't even discussed where we're going to live. I'd just assumed we'd live at your place; but it's kind of small, and I have all those shoes."

Auggie leaned down and kissed her before reassuring her that they would make the living arrangements work until they found a larger place. "I'd rather be a little cramped for a while and take our time to find the perfect home or condo. I think we're supposed to be enjoying this time of our lives, not worrying ourselves into migraine headaches," he said softly. "Are you starting to feel better?"

"I am. And, I need to get the hairdryer so I can dry my hair while you shower," she said as she sat up and took the damp cloth off her face.

Forty-five minutes later Annie and Auggie were walking down the hall toward the family room where they heard his parents and the pastor and his wife visiting. Auggie took Annie's elbow about half way down the hall. Annie slowed her pace, looked up at him and questioned, "Huh?"

Auggie leaned over slightly and teased, "Extra people in the house … I want to stick close to you so I don't sit on the Pastor's lap."

"Shouldn't you have just brought your cane with you?"

"That would be overkill," Auggie said with a mischievous smile.

Amanda and Mrs. Nelson were chatting when Annie and Auggie stepped through the entrance to the family room. Annie shifted arm positions with Auggie and looped her right arm through the crook of his left arm as though he were escorting her. He patted her hand and they both took deep breaths before they greeted the Nelsons.

Amanda stood as the young couple entered the room. "Annie. Auggie. Please join us. Annie, I want you to meet Reverend and Mrs. Nelson."

Annie offered her hand to them and after shaking hands, said, "It's so nice to meet you both."

Mrs. Nelson said, "It's nice to meet you and I want to offer you and Auggie my congratulations."

Auggie offered his hand and said, "Thank you, I glad you could join us for dinner this evening."

Taking Auggie's hand, Rev. Nelson said, "You're looking well and very happy, Auggie."

Annie surveyed the room. Rev. and Mrs. Nelson were sitting in the leather wing chairs and Amanda and Fred were comfortable on the sofa. Nestling her hand in Auggie's, Annie said just above a whisper, "Why don't we make ourselves comfortable on the love seat."

After the dinner filled with lively conversation about wedding plans and local news, Auggie said, "Well, Reverend, Dad has offered us his office so you, and Annie and I can visit before the wedding. Shall we go upstairs?"

"That would be great, Auggie. Why don't you lead the way?"

"I'll bring some coffee up for us," Annie said, turning back to the kitchen. She pulled a tray out of the pantry and filled it with three mugs, a carafe filled with coffee and some napkins. She dawdled arranging the napkins.

Mildred walked past her and said, "Honey, you can't put it off much longer."

Annie smiled sheepishly and picked up the tray. As she left the kitchen she turned to Mildred and said, "Wish me luck." Mildred responded with a hearty laugh.

Fred's comfortable home office was furnished with a desk, two chairs in front of it and a small sofa in the bay window facing an arm chair. A coffee table was in front of the sofa. Annie entered the room, smiled at the minister, placed the tray on the coffee table and settled on the sofa next to Auggie. "May I pour you a cup of coffee?" she asked the pastor.

After everyone had a few sips of coffee, Rev. Nelson said, "Well, congratulations on your engagement. As you probably know it's customary for a Methodist minister to have several pre-marriage counseling sessions with couples before they're married in our church. But I've known Auggie since he was in middle school and you're both in your thirties, I believe one session will be sufficient."

Both Annie and Auggie nodded nervously. The religious discussion centered on their beliefs, spirituality and intent to become members of a church family in Washington. They also talked about the importance of raising their children in the church. They also talked candidly about resolving conflict as a couple. "Now," said Rev. Nelson, "I'm curious. How did you two meet?"

Annie was surprised by the question and gasped. Auggie smiled, because Rev. Nelson knew Auggie's work and military background. And Auggie had not taken time to read in Annie about that fact. So, Auggie started talking, knowing that Annie would take his lead.

"I met Annie on her first day at work when I was assigned to show her around the Agency and work with her on her first assignment," Auggie explained.

"So, you're both still working at the Agency?" the pastor asked. Both nodded yes. He thought a moment and said, "Go on, Auggie."

"I was drawn to her immediately because she was … still is … so bright and capable …. Aaaand loveable," he explained with a wide smile. "While we were discussing the assignment, I was wearing the earphones I use with my computer to listen to voice over." Auggie stopped to take a sip of coffee and smile. "Anyway … she said she wanted to ask me a question. I assumed it was about my being blind. I was really embarrassed after I told her a version of how I lost my sight to find out she just wanted to know what the earphones are for. I think I began falling in love with her at that very moment."

Annie listened to Auggie and blushed. She looked at her lap, too self-conscious to look at the minister or at Auggie.

"Annie," Reverend Nelson asked, "when did you realized you were in love with Auggie?"

"It's hard to say, because I was so taken with Auggie that first day we met," Annie explained.

"How so?"

"It took me spending only about an hour with Auggie to realize he is one of the smartest, most capable people I'd ever met," she continued. "Then, he was assigned to be my handler and we continued to work closely together. I learned what a good heart he has … and … and I realized he's the person I want to spend the rest of my life with." As she talked, Annie scooted as close to Auggie as she could and laid her hand over his as it rested on his knee. She caught a glimpse of him out of the corner of her eye and saw his smile develop as she spoke.

"That's very interesting, Annie," Rev. Nelson said. "You haven't had second thoughts about marrying a blind man?"

The question caught both Annie and Auggie by surprise. Auggie hid his discomfort better than Annie who gasped … again.

"What? No. What kind of question is that? I just told you he's the smartest most accomplished person I know. Sometimes I think he should be running the agency," Annie said raising her voice. "Besides … I love him with all my heart and I know he loves me the same way. Why are you asking such a question?"

Rev. Nelson smiled at the couple. "Because I wanted to be sure you could answer my question. It's clear you can and you're both sure of your love for each other. Now, let's talk about how you want me to conduct the ceremony. Do you want me to use the traditional ceremony and vows, or do you want to have a hand in writing it yourselves?"

Annie sighed. "I think the traditional ceremony is nice …. What about you, Auggie?"

"Sounds good to me," Auggie answered. "But I won't feel comfortable with you vowing to obey me," he said with a mischievous smile, "because I know it's not going to happen."

Annie giggled and the pastor's expression morphed into a wide smile. Rev. Nelson said, "It's a shame to take that out of the ceremony," the pastor said. "I always thought it added a bit of humor to an otherwise solemn religious ceremony."

At the end of the evening when the guests had left, Annie was in the kitchen rinsing her glass absentmindedly at the sink. Amanda watched her for a few seconds before asking, "Everything OK?"

Annie turned, "Fine … I was just processing something the minister asked me this evening. He wanted to know if I'd had second thoughts about marrying a blind man. I was offended by the question, but it made me realize that it's going to be a question that will be in the back of the minds of strangers and acquaintances who don't know us well."

"Does that bother you?" Amanda asked.

"It aggravates me a little that people don't realize what a smart, talented, capable person Auggie is. People put too much focus on the blindness and give too little attention to the person," Annie explained quietly.

Amanda smiled and patted Annie's cheek. "Well, in addition to working to make the world a safer place to live, it looks like you're going to have to help people understand how important it is to know the person behind the disability."

Annie smiled and nodded. "And to learn to ignore some people and their attitudes. I know there are going to be some people who think I have to take care of Auggie, but the joke's on them; because he's the one who takes care of me."

As their conversation ended, Fred and Auggie walked past the kitchen. "We're heading upstairs," Fred said noticing the serious expressions Amanda's and Annie's faces. "Is everything ok?"

Annie looked up nervously and smiled, "Yes. Just fine."

"We'll be coming up in a minute," Amanda said.

Auggie waited at the bottom of the stairs for his dad. "What was that about?"

"Looked like Annie and your mom were having a very serious conversation," Fred explained. "Annie looked sad, and that's nothing like your Annie."

"Hmmm, I have an idea what's on her mind. It's a question Rev. Nelson asked her."

"What was it?" Fred asked as they walked up the stairs.

"It was kind of out of left field and surprised me. He wanted to know if she had any apprehensions about marrying a blind man," Auggie said with a sigh. "I'm really proud of the way she handled herself, but I could tell it bothered her."

"Have you taken time to discuss it?" Fred asked.

"Dad, we work together and practically live together. We've known each other for more than three years, so she has a pretty good idea about what life with me will be like," Auggie explained. "She understands I need my space and independence, and I understand she wants to help me sometimes even when I don't need it," he added lightly.

"We all need help from time to time, Auggie," Fred said as they reached the top of the stairs. Patting his son's shoulder he said, "The trick is to know when to accept it graciously."

Auggie nodded in agreement and walked down the hall to his bedroom.

Annie heard Auggie in the bathroom brushing his teeth as she slipped into the bedroom and closed the door. She set a bottle of cold water on Auggie's night stand and walked around the bed to put the second bottle on her side. She let out a deep sigh as she started to undress at the side of the bed.

"It was a pretty long day, wasn't it?" Auggie asked as he walked out of the bathroom in his sleep pants.

"It was … that just sort of slipped out," Annie said as she hung up her dress. "There's a cold water on your nightstand."

"Thanks," Auggie said. He sat on the side of the bed and located the bottle. Taking a swig of water and wiping his mouth, Auggie asked Annie, "So, have you worked through the question the minister asked you tonight?"

"I'm getting there. It just made me realize there are two views of our lives. Ours and everyone else's. I'd never really thought that much about the way our relationship appears to people who don't know us … don't know you and don't realize how strong and smart you are." Annie slipped into her night shirt and sat beside Auggie. "There's just one thing to do," she continued, "we'll have to go on a public education campaign."

Auggie chuckled and Annie kissed him sweetly on the cheek. He started to kiss her on the mouth, but Annie pulled away. "Sorry, I have to brush my teeth … I still taste garlic from the salad dressing."

Auggie groaned.

Annie returned quickly after brushing her teeth and climbed into bed. "Auggie, is there any special talk you think we ought to have before we get married?"

"About what? We've pretty much covered it all over the past three years, don't you think? I've told you more than I told my shrink during my recovery and rehab …" he paused. "Are you talking about this?" he asked waving his hand in front of his eyes.

"Maybe … I don't know … Is there something important we haven't talked about that you need to let me know about?" Annie asked.

They had stretched out in bed and rolled over facing each other. Annie put her hand on Auggie's upper arm and rubbed it gently. "Is there?"

Auggie cupped her face in his hands and kissed her. "I should tell you I've always appreciated how from our first meeting you accepted me as Auggie and not the blind guy."

Annie returned the kiss. "I know things can be difficult for you at times, and I can sense when you're frustrated because you can't see. But I don't dwell on it, because I want you to be able to move beyond what's frustrating you."

"I know that," Auggie said. "And I love you for the way you ask what you can do to help rather than stepping in and taking over if I'm struggling with something."

Annie laughed and kissed him. "That rarely happens."

"But, it has and you didn't make me feel like an idiot when you helped me."

Annie was quiet and pensive. "You know, Auggie, if it had not been for the explosion, we probably would never have met."

"How so?"

"Well, if there had been no explosion, you'd probably be overseas running an operation in Afghanistan by now … or on the Seventh Floor."

"Never the Seventh Floor. I tried that and didn't like it. Remember?" he reminded her. "But, yes, if I hadn't been blinded, we may never have met. Or, maybe we would have and I would have fallen in love with you at first sight." He embraced Annie, and their bodies intertwined. They started to make love, and Auggie whispered breathlessly into Annie's ear, "I prefer to believe that I would have fallen in love with you on first sight."

Check back soon for the second chapter of Ode to Joy to find out what happens at the wedding. Thanks for reading.