"The very instant I saw you, did my heart fly to your service"
It was a quiet evening at the Hathaway-Shakespeare home. Supper had been served. Lu was folding laundry and putting it away. Frank and their young son Christopher were watching the telly before bed. She smiled as she remembered the doctor's office some years back. She was surprised, Frank was stunned. He was not sure he wanted a child at this point in his life. However, she had to give him his due, he was a good father. Surprisingly so. She heard Frank say.
"Come on Master Chris it's time for bed."
"Yes, Da." In her mind, she could see Chris's resigned shrug. He knew better than to argue. Frank was a bit older. He insisted on good manners from the child.
She heard them go into the bedroom and Frank helped Chris get ready for bed as they sat he tucked him into bed she heard Chris ask "Dad do you think Mum is pretty?"
"Of course I do. Now, what has gotten into your head to ask such a silly question?" Frank responded. Lu was listening in carefully.
"Well, Billy's dad left Billy and his Mum. Billy heard him say it was because his Mum was not pretty anymore."
"I'm sorry to hear that Billy is going through that." replied Frank "Now you be a good mate to him. He's going to need one."
"Yes, Dad." In her mind, Lu could see Chris shaking his head in agreement.
"Is that why you were asking me that?" said Frank to Chris.
"Yes, Dad. Billy is very sad about his Mum and Dad." Chris paused
"I'm sure he is." replied Frank.
"I'm glad to hear you still think Mum is pretty." said Chris with a smile.
"Well, young Christopher I'm going to tell you something. But you have to promise not to tell your Mother." responded Frank
"I promise Dad." replied Chris. Lu was listening very closely now.
Frank continued "Young man. When I first saw your mother I thought she was the prettiest woman I have ever seen."
"You did." replied Chris. You could hear his voice rise slightly at the end in mild surprise.
"Yes I did." replied Frank "What's more, I still feel the same way about her today."
Lu heard this and a tear formed in her eye. She dabbed at it.
"Thanks, Dad." said Chris "But why can't I tell Mum"
"Well that is just a secret for you and me." replied Frank "Maybe later we can tell your Mum."
"Ok" replied Chris
"Now Christopher since we have talked through storytime you need to go to bed. Or Mum will come up and give us both an earful. Now goodnight." Frank left and turned the light off.
Lu smiled and as Frank went downstairs to read, have a last beer and be sure the house was secure. She finished up and got ready for bed. She put on Frank's favorite nightgown. Then climbed in under the covers.
As Frank came up and got ready for bed he pulled back the covers. Looking at Lu he said, "What's this about!"
Lu smiled "Well the prettiest woman you have ever seen has to keep up her reputation."
Frank groaned "You heard. There will be no living with you now."
Lu shook her head "Frank that is one of the nicest compliments I have ever received. I might add you are a good husband and father as well."
"Thanks," replied Frank "It's important to be a good Dad."
"I see the results." replied Lu "You seem to be very concerned about Chris."
Frank replied, "20 years as a copper teaches you all about what happens if there is no Dad. I don't want that for Chris."
Lu replied, "You are doing surprisingly well tonight. Both your son and your wife feel loved."
"Thanks." replied Frank
"Now get in the bad and turn off the lights. It's time for your goodnight kiss." said Lu with a smile.
"Careful I'm getting to be an old man." Frank replied as he climbed into bed, and turned off the lights.
The End
Disclaimer this is fan fiction all characters remain the property of their respective rights holders.