Chapter 17: Family Time

A/N: So, the realization that it's been five years since the series finale really got me into a Rizzles mood. I decided to cash in on the inspiration and try to get this one over the finish line.

Thursday, January 2

"Can you remind me of the name of the town we are going to?" Jane asked as they pulled away from the Isles' estate.

"Schwyz," Constance answered from the front passenger seat.

"Schwyz is the capital of the canton of the same name," Maura explained. "The old town is beautiful." Maura launched into a history of the city, canton, and country. Jane got lost in the sound of Maura's voice. It calmed her.

"Where would you like to be dropped off?" the driver asked Constance as they entered the city limits.

"Haug Confiserie Café Restaurant," Constance replied with a perfect German accent.

"Very well," the driver replied.

"Haug is a tearoom, pastry shop, and café that has been a family-owned business in Schwyz for nearly 125 years. While it has been renovated a handful of times over the years, the tearoom has been located in the same building since 1889," Maura explained to Jane as the exited the car and entered the small, beautiful café.

After brunch, they walked around the town. Maura pointed out various landmarks that were important in both historic and modern Swiss culture.

"St. Martin Church is probably the most famous building in Schwyz," Maura said as they stood at the base of the old stairs that led from the city square to the base of the church. "The original church was built in the 9th century. I believe at least some of the foundation dates back to that time, but it has been rebuilt multiple times over the years, most recently in 1774. The stairs were built in 1889." As Maura was talking, Constance ambled away, giving the two women some time alone.

"It always amazes me how old Europe actually is," Jane said in awe.

Maura chuckled. "I know," she admitted. "People always talk about how old Boston is, but Boston is an incredibly new city compared to the cities in Europe. There's evidence that people settled here and began organizing into some type of community as early as the 8th century."

Maura blushed when she noticed the way Jane was looking at her. "What?" she asked self-consciously.

"You're incredible," Jane said with the same awe in her voice as when she spoke about Europe moments earlier. "I mean, you never cease to amaze me with how much you know."

"I spent significant amounts of time here during my childhood," Maura said. "I'm sure you know more about Boston than most people since you grew up there."

"Yeah, but still," Jane said as she reached out tug Maura closer to her. When Maura's face was inches from her own, Jane repeated, "You're amazing," and leaned in for a kiss before Maura could respond.

Since she couldn't respond with words, Maura tried to express her feelings through the kiss. They were so lost in each other that they didn't notice Constance surreptitiously taking pictures of them in front of the church (and immediately texting them to Angela).

Not knowing about the candid photos, after a few minutes, Maura asked her mother to take a few pictures of them in front of the church, and Jane insisted on getting a few of Maura and Constance despite their protests that they had been here many times. They even got someone to take a couple of pictures of the three of them together.

Eventually, they made their way to the Ital Reding Estate. The property was absolutely gorgeous in Jane's opinion. The old buildings, surrounded by snow, against the backdrop of the Alps…Jane had never seen anything like it.

"It's been a while since I've visited the estate," Maura said to Jane. "Honestly, it's a bit touristy, but it's also quintessential Schwyz. I wanted you to see it."

"It's beautiful," Jane replied.

"There are three buildings within the estate," Maura explained as they waited in line. "The manor house was built in the early 1600s. The manor house is usually what people are referring to when they say the Ital Reding House, despite the fact that that's also the name of the estate.

"The second building is the Bethlehem House. It's the oldest known timber house in Europe, erected in 1287. The third building used to be the farm building, but it is now the cantonal library. We can stop by there, but it's not part of the actual tour," Maura finished.

"It's still Maura's favorite part of the estate," Constance teased, causing both Jane and Maura to laugh.

Constance paid the entry fee, and they entered the grounds. They ambled around the gardens, which were covered in snow, before entering the manor house.

"Geez, this is fancy," Jane said as she looked around the ground floor.

"It's beautiful," Maura agreed.

They progressed through the manor house, walking through the large garden hall and other rooms on the ground floor. They decided to see the underground cellar before ending with the first floor.

"These rooms are said to document the rise of the family through the social ranks as they gained power, wealth, and status," Maura explained as they walked through the staterooms.

"In other words, they're showy," Jane teased, drawing and eye-roll from her girlfriend.

They visited the Bethlehem House next. "I've never been in a building this old," Jane said. "I'm afraid to touch anything.

Maura chuckled. "Most people have never been in a building this old," she said. "Yes, there are older buildings in Europe and Asia, but most buildings have either been rebuilt or destroyed and replaced at some point over the last eight centuries. And it would probably be a good idea to keep your hands to yourself," she teased.

"Historians believe that this was once the manor house," Constance told Jane. "But much of the history of the building has been lost over time."

"And new things were added, including the basement hall that was added in the 16th century and adornments from the 18th century. However, most of the building is still in its original condition," Maura explained.

Jane's favorite part of the Bethlehem building was the murals in the basement hall. She took a ridiculous number of pictures to show her ma, knowing that her mother would love to see something like this.

After visiting the library, they returned to the village to do some shopping. Jane tried to find souvenirs to bring home for her family, as well as Frost and Korsak. She was looking at a display of Swiss Army Knives, trying to decide if customs would freak out if she brought five home – one for each of her brothers, Frost, and Korsak, and one for herself.

"You should get one," Maura said as she walked up behind Jane, causing her to jump. "Swiss Army Knives are manufactured in Ibach, which is a village within the city."

"I was trying to decide if it would be weird or suspicious to get one for Frankie, Tommy, Frost, and Korsak, too," Jane replied. "Is customs gonna be like, 'why do you have five of these things?'"

Maura chuckled. "Honestly, I highly doubt that you would be the first person to buy a bunch of Swiss Army Knives in Switzerland," she teased. "Just don't try to pack them in your carry-on."

Jane laughed. "Thanks for the tip," she quipped. "Alright, I'm gonna get them."

By early afternoon, Jane was starting to feel the lingering effects of her cold; her exhaustion was quickly taking over, something that Maura noticed immediately.

"Are you feeling okay?" Maura asked as they walked between stores. Constance had moved ahead of them, stating that she had something to look at in a store that probably wouldn't interest them.

"Yeah, yeah," Jane said. "I just don't have my usual energy back yet, but I'm fine." She didn't want to cut the afternoon short. She knew how important this time with her mother is to Maura.

"No, you need to take it easy," Maura said, concern etched in her voice. "We're both just getting over an illness. Come on. There's a café at the end of the block. Let's get you some coffee, and I'll call mother and Hans." At the confused look on Jane's face, she added, "Our driver."

Jane sighed. She felt bad for bailing before Maura was truly done shopping, but she knew she was fading fast. This was probably less embarrassing than passing out on the street. "Alright," she acquiesced.

Maura realized just how bad Jane must be feeling to give in to her idea so easily. She had expected Jane to fight her, insisting that she wanted Maura to get to do all the shopping she wanted.

Maura called her mother and Hans as they walked to the café. Both agreed to come immediately, but Maura let them know that they had a little time. She thought it was best to get Jane some coffee first. Maura forced Jane to sit at one of the small tables in the café while she waited in line. She couldn't help but glance at Jane every few seconds. She was worried about her girlfriend. She was worried that Jane had overdone it and would get sicker instead of continuing to get better.

Constance entered the café just as Maura picked up their drinks. She had ordered one for her mother and Hans as well, and she carried all four drinks to the table where Jane was waiting.

"Hans will be here in ten minutes," Constance said as she joined Maura and Jane at the table. "Thank you, darling," she added to Maura as Maura handed her her drink.

"Did you get to go everywhere you wanted to?" Jane asked Constance.

"Oh, yes, I can come here anytime," Constance waved away Jane's concerns. "Please don't worry about it."

Jane nodded vaguely as she took a sip of her coffee. She remained mostly silent while Maura and Constance chatted until Hans arrived.

It wasn't a long drive back to the Isles home, but Jane fell asleep on Maura's shoulder before they had even left the city limits. Luckily, Maura noticed in time to keep Jane's coffee from spilling.

"Here, let me put Jane's coffee in the cupholder," Constance whispered, reaching into the back seat to take the drink from Maura.

"Thank you, mother," Maura replied quietly. "I should have realized that her recovery was likely a day behind mine and that she was pushing herself too much."

"She'll be okay," Constance said. "She has you to take care of you."

Maura just nodded as she rubbed Jane's knee and watched her girlfriend sleep.

"We're going to rest in our room," Maura told her mother just before they arrived home. "We'll join you and father for dinner though."

"Of course, darling," Constance replied. "And if Jane's not feeling up to it, just let me know and I'll bring dinner to your room again."

"Thank you," Maura replied. When they pulled up to the front door, Maura hated to wake Jane. "Jane, we're home," she whispered, shaking Jane's leg gently. "Come on, let's get you inside."

Jane stirred. "Sorry," she mumbled as she tried to rub the sleep from her eyes.

When they got back to their room, Maura suggested, "Why don't I draw you a warm bath?"

"Only if you'll join me," Jane replied, flashing a smile at Maura.

Maura couldn't help but smile back. "Fine, but only to bathe and relax," she said before turning to head to the bathroom to start the bath.

When the bath was ready, Jane started to get in first, but Maura stopped her. "Let me get in first," she said, stepping into the bath.

"But I'm taller," Jane protested. "That means I go in the back."

Maura just laughed. "Well, too bad, I want to hold you today," she said, sitting down.

The look on Jane's face told Maura that she was contemplating arguing, but eventually, she decided to just get in. "Ohhh," Jane moaned as she leaned back against Maura and Maura wrapped her arms around Jane from behind. Jane rested her head on Maura's shoulder while Maura gently placed her chin on Jane's. "This feels good," Jane admitted. She loved the feeling of Maura's breasts pressed against her back, of Maura's arms wrapped around her, and of Maura's fingers drawing random patterns on her stomach.

"Mmm," Maura hummed in agreement. "I love you so much, Jane," she whispered before placing a soft kiss on Jane's cheek. "Just relax, okay?"

"I love you, too," Jane mumbled, and Maura could tell by the sound of Jane's voice that Jane was already falling asleep.

Jane was sound asleep within minutes, and Maura decided to just let her rest. Maura was enjoying the closeness and the intimacy of the moment. Her mind started to drift as Jane slept in her arms. Maura was happy – so incredibly happy. She had made huge strides in improving her relationship with her extended family, and she had never felt closer to her parents. However, it was the change in her relationship with Jane that meant the most to her. She had wanted this for so long, but she had thought it was an impossibility. The last thing she expected was that a trip to visit her parents would be what finally brought them together.

Maura let Jane sleep as long as she could before the water got too cold, and she had to wake her so that they could get out.

Jane hadn't mean to fall asleep in the bath, but she had to admit that she was feeling a lot better than she had been when they left the village.

As they freshened up, Maura asked, "How are you feeling about dinner? We were going to have dinner with my parents, but if you're not feeling up to it, we can eat in here."

"I'm okay," Jane said. "I'm actually pretty hungry. We should definitely eat with your parents. We can do something with them this evening, too, if you want."

Maura smiled. "Let's see how you feel after dinner, okay?" she suggested.

"Alright," Jane agreed, chuckling lightly.

A little while later, Jane and Maura joined Constance and Arthur in the family dining room.

"How are you feeling, Jane?" Constance asked immediately as they sat down.

"Better, actually," Jane replied with a smile.

"Good," Constance replied as Arthur also gave Jane a smile.

Dinner passed pleasantly. Jane could definitely get used to having a chef cook such delicious meals for her every day. She was glad she was feeling well enough to enjoy the last few days of meals.

"Would the two of you like to watch a movie with me and Arthur tonight?" Constance asked, surprising both Maura and Jane.

Jane glanced at Maura before answering, "Yeah, that sounds great."

"Ye-yes," Maura replied, still shocked by her mother's proposal. "That would be wonderful."

It took them a while to agree on a movie. Jane was willing to watch pretty much anything. She wasn't expecting to like whatever Maura, Constance, and Arthur preferred to watch, but they seemed determined to find something she would like too. They ended up agreeing on "The Santa Clause," which ended up being a good choice. It may not have been anyone's top choice, but all four of them enjoyed it.

After the movie, the moved to the sitting room, where they shared a cup of tea. Jane was starting to get sleepy again, but she could tell that Maura was loving the one-on-one time with her parents. She had to figure out how to excuse herself but also convince Maura to stay and spend time with her parents.

"You look ready for bed," Arthur said good-naturedly to Jane.

Jane chuckled. "Yeah, I think I might have to turn in for the night, but you guys should enjoy your time together," she said.

"I'll come with you, Jane," Maura said quickly, but Jane shook her head.

"No, really, I'm okay," Jane said. She stared into Maura's eyes, willing her to believe her and stay with her parents. "I'm just gonna be asleep within a few minutes. Stay with your parents. It's still early."

"Are you sure?" Maura asked uncertainly.

"Absolutely," Jane said with a smile. "Goodnight," she added, giving Maura a chaste kiss before bidding goodnight to Constance and Arthur.

"If you want to go with Jane, we'd understand," Constance said kindly, watching Maura watch Jane leave.

"No, no," Maura said, returning her attention to her parents. "Jane will be fine, and I know she truly means what she said. Plus, I'd really like to spend more time with both of you. I can't believe we leave in a few days."

"It really has gone too quickly," Constance agreed. "We were so happy when you said you would be visiting for two weeks. It felt like so much time, but it's gone by so fast."

They fell into easy conversation. Maura wasn't sure the last time she spent so much time talking with just her parents. Actually, she wasn't sure if she had ever spent this much time in one sitting with both her parents and no one else. She loved that she was getting to spend so much time with them and that they were getting to know Jane.

When William came to refill their tea, Constance excused herself – Maura assumed she was stepping out to use the bathroom.

It was slightly awkward to be alone with her father. She didn't really know what to say to him. She hadn't realized how much her mother buffered their conversations. "Have you read any good books lately?" she eventually asked, and luckily, they were able to talk about this topic until her mother returned.

"Sorry," Constance said, smiling at both of them as she returned to her seat. "I wanted to grab something from our room." She held out a small box to Maura, who took it with a shaky hand. It was a small blue ring box.

"I was planning on giving this to you on your last night here, but I figured this might actually be the perfect time," Constance explained as Maura opened the box. Inside was a modest diamond engagement ring. Maura didn't recognize it right away, but she could tell it was old, very old. "This was my grandmother's engagement ring," Constance continued. "I know you could buy any ring you wanted for Jane, but I thought…I thought you might…" Constance trailed off nervously, clearly unsure of Maura's reaction.

Maura had tears in her eyes as she looked up at her mother. Constance gave her a shy smile before adding, "The box is new. When I stepped away from you and Jane today, I stopped at the jewelry store to get the box. I've had the ring forever, but I never had a box for it." Constance knew she was rambling, but Maura still hadn't said anything. Despite the fact that Maura's tears told her that Maura was touched, she was still nervous at Maura's lack of words.

"Mother, I…this is…I don't know what to say…" she said.

"I thought one day you might want to give it to Jane," Constance said with an uncharacteristic vulnerability. "When you ask her to marry you, I mean. Please don't feel like you have to, though. If you want to pick out something that you think Jane would like better, I would understand. Either way, it's yours."

"Thank you, mother," Maura said thickly. "This means so much to me. I wish I could find the words to express how much this means to me, but I'm speechless. Thank you," she repeated, feeling like it was a completely inadequate response.

"You're welcome, darling," Constance replied with a smile. "Like I said, it's up to you how you want to use it…"

"I want to propose to Jane with it," Maura said quickly as she tried to wipe the tears from her eyes. "I…it's perfect. Thank you."

"We both like Jane very much," Arthur said. It was such a simple sentence, but it meant everything to Maura. Her father had rarely given her any sort of approval outside of her academics, and he had never stated an opinion about any of her previous significant others.

"Your father's right, darling," Constance said kindly. "Jane is wonderful, and we couldn't imagine anyone better for you to spend your life with."

Tears returned to Maura's eyes, so instead of responding with words, she stood to give both of her parents a hug.

"I know that I want to spend the rest of my life with Jane," Maura said when she returned to her seat. "I know I want to marry her, but for some reason, it doesn't feel like the right time to ask."

"Oh, we weren't expecting you to ask her while you're here," Constance said. Then, almost as if it was an afterthought, she added, "However, if you did, you'd have our full support. Either way, you should wait until it feels right. You'll know when it's time."

"Thank you," Maura said quietly. "I love you both so much."

"We love you, too," Constance said, and Arthur nodded in agreement.

A/N: Okay, technically the Ital Reding House and the Bethlehem House are closed to individual visitors between November and April (pre-arranged group visits are still available, though), but it's a classic Schwyz landmark, so I had to include it anyway. {shrug}

Also, before you get too excited, Maura really isn't going to propose on this trip (like she said), but don't forget about the ring when we get to the sequel!

My goal is to finish this story over the next two weeks or so. I'm hoping to avoid a long break again.