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Emily's Chronicles: Part 23 "Eve and Jimmy's Big Surprise" (PG)
By: Tammy, Trish, and Liddy
Disclaimer: The following is a work of fanfiction based up on the characters and places in the Emily of New Moon book by L.M. Montgomery and the tv series. No infringement upon the rights of the estate of L.M. Montomery, her heirs, or anyone connected with the television series is intended.

The following next morning, two days after the birth of the Carpenter twins,
Lucy and Byron, the sun rose above Blair Water giving the land a golden
appearance and promising a day full of surprises. Eve had been to New Moon
each day since Isabel had given birth to the twins. Her cousin-in-law was
happy and grateful for the help all of the Murray women were offering her
especially since she had still been confined to bed and had two tiny babies
to care for. The truth was Eve couldn't stay away from the babies. She loved
holding them and cooing to them, dressing them, and bathing them. She
watched Isabel lovingly care for her infants and dreamed of the day she
would be welcoming her own child into the world. The thought that it would
be only a few months until then filled her with so much joy she had to hold
her
breath to keep from crying. Eve had been planning to return once again to
New Moon today to see if there was anything Isabel or the babies needed.

At the Collie Farm, Eve and her mother, Judith are preparing to make
breakfast
for their hungry men, Jimmy and Gussy Dan, whom have been out doing
their daily morning chores. Jimmy kisses Eve on the cheek before he steps
out on the porch to wash up, and it's Gussy Dan who reaches the table first,
plopping down in a chair and rubbing his hands together hungry enough to eat
a horse. Eat before he leaves for school.

As Judith breaks a couple of eggs on the edge of the frying pan and drops
them in the pan to fry....her daughter unexpectedly begins to experience
morning sickness as she sees the frying eggs, Eve begins to gag.
Not wanting to vomit in the kitchen, she turns suddenly and runs upstairs to
their water closet. Judith, keen to daughter's ailment, recognizing Eve's
symtoms, she immediately serves the fried eggs to her hungry son for
breakfast, and then rushes upstairs to join Eve. Before leaving, she
instructs Gussy Dan to stay put, so that he can be there when Jimmy returns
to the house for his breakfast.

"Yes Mum," he replies, as he picks up his fork and hungrily dives right in
to his breakfast.

"Eve!" she calls, as she climbs the back stairs. "Are you alright?"
Finding her daughter in the water closet., she opens the door.

Between wrenching, she says weakly, "Mum, I don't know what's come over me.
I never reacted that way when I saw those eggs are being fried. It's just
that they for some reason, made me ill."

"Darling, I know you haven't." replied Judith, as she had grabbed a washrag
and wetted it, and began pressing it against Eve's forehead. "Don't worry
about it, dear, because that's what happens when you're in the family way.
It's happened to me twice, when I was expecting you and your brother."

"Oh Mumma," said a relieved Eve, "You know what's wrong with me? I knew it
too for the last six and a half weeks when I began skipping, but I wasn't
sure."
As she stood up, and pulled the toilet flusher chain, she asked "Should I
tell
Jimmy now what we suspect, or shall I wait until I've seen Allan and then
tell him?"

Judith stroked her daughters hair and looked at her remembering the little
girl who once asked for her advice about dolls. She was now asking advice
about a baby. "He's your husband." She said smiling lovingly. "He should
share all of this with you. You should tell him what you suspect. From the
looks of things, there is no way you could be wrong."

"Your right, Mumma." Eve grinned, happy at the thought of Jimmy's reaction.

Judith took Eve gently by the arm and put her other arm around her
daughter's
waist. She led Eve to the master-bedroom and helped her lie down, once
again laying the cold cloth on her forehead. "You just rest for now." She
told
her daughter. "I'll send Gussy Dan to fetch Allan on his way to school."
She
bent to kiss her daughter on the forehead and stroked her cheek, "....and
I'll send Jimmy up."

Eve smiled at her with agreement as her mother left the room, her skirts
swishing as she descended the staircase.

As Judith descended the last step of the back stairs to the kitchen, she
finds Jimmy washing his hands in the sink. "Jimmy dear, I'm sooo glad that
you're here!" She remarks. "Eve has something she wants to tell you."

"She does," He asks? "Where is she?"

"She's upstairs in your bedroom lying down on your bed." Replies Judith,
smiling to herself....wanting sooo much to call him--Papa, just to get a
rise out of him.

Jimmy studying her for a while, wonders to himself what's going on between
his mother-in-law and wife, as he is drying his hands, "Mum, what are you
and Eve been up to?"

"The important question is, what you and Eve been up to." Said she. "Really
now, Jimmy, will you please get up those stairs and to your wife!?"

"I'm going. I'm going!" he answers as he is heading for the back
stairs....

While Gussy Dan is finishing up his breakfast, Judith readies his lunch that
she puts in a tin lunchbox. As she is doing this, she is instructing him,
"Now son, when you get to Allan's, please tell him that Eve needs him to
come here for a much needed visit this morning. I don't want you to mention
a word about your sister's condition to anyone at school....not even to our
cousins, Ilse or Emily. Do I make myself perfectly clear??"

As he is getting up from the table, Gussy Dan also picks up his plate and
fork to place them in the sink for his mother to wash. Turning to her he
asks, "What's wrong with Eve anyway? Why did she suddenly run upstairs?
Why would I need to say anything, when I don't know what's wrong with her,
Mum?"

"That's very well put, son." Replied, Judith agreeing with him. "We should
know this evening, when you come home from school. Then we can sit down
together, and I will be able to talk to you about your sister's condition.
In the
meantime, please tell Allan that we need to see him here. Alright?"

"OK, Mum! I'll give Allan your message." Promised Gussy Dan. "And I won't
even say a thing to either Ilse or Emily." Little did he know, that he and
Ilse
would be doing just that.

Judith, wanting to give her youngest child a hug, but decided against
it...instead, she.watched him scurry on down their driveway to the main
road, in the direction of the Burnley home.

Meanwhile--upstairs, Jimmy finds his wife, kneeling on the floor of their
water closet wrenching into the toilet. Eve had rushed from her bed upon
feeling another wave of sickness overcome her. Jimmy stood in the doorway,
unsure of what to do or what was wrong with Eve. Finally she stood up
swaying a bit in her dizziness. Jimmy quickly put his arm out to catch her
around the waist.

"What's the matter my beautiful Queen of Romania?" He asked her, the worry
showing on his face as he held her.

Eve smiled sweetly at her husband, nearly bursting with the news. However,
she did not want to tell him here. She took his arm and layed her other hand
on his cheek. "Would help me back to the bed,darling?" She asked him. She
knew that if she did not sit down soon she would faint. "There is something
I need to tell you."

Jimmy did as Eve had requested, holding her close to him as they walked back
into their bedroom, and sitting her gently down on the bed. When he was sure
she was settled he turned his concerned face to her. "Please tell me what's
wrong." He begged.

"Oh, there's nothing wrong." She smiled. "It's just that...well...I
think..." Before
she could get out the words she was yearning to say she felt the need to
rush
once more to the water closet. "Oh No." Eve whimpered, raising her hands
hands and pasting it over her mouth. She nearly shoved Jimmy out of the way
as she rose unsteadily from the bed and raced back to the small room
down the hall. Jimmy sat for a moment a little confused, and then followed
his wife quickly. He could hear the sounds of her vomiting before he
reached the half closed door.

After a moment, her stomach completely emptied, Eve rose exhausted from
throwing up. Jimmy helped her wipe her face with a wet cloth, and this time
he would take no chances, he carefully scooped her up in his arms and
carried
her back to their bed, laying her down and covering her with a quilt. Eve,
however, was too excited to stay still. She was now beginning to feel a
little better and could not hold the news any longer. She too was certain.

She sat up and dangled her legs over the side of the bed. Jimmy who was
kneeling beside the mattress began to protest. "You stay here, and I'll go
get Allan." He said.

"Mother's already sent Gussy Dan to get him." She informed him. "On his way
to school."

"Then please tell, me why you are sooo sick!!" Jimmy pleaded.

"Honey, I think....I mean--I've sensed this for the last six and a half
weeks...and
Mummy also senses it...that I'm....well, we're going to become parents in
eight
or eight and a half months or so." Declares Eve to her somewhat
takened-aback husband.

With that surprising unexpectant news, Jimmy's mouth drops wide open in
total shock. Eve is thinking to herself, as she is studying her shocked
quiet husband--"Jimmy. Jimmy. Earth to Jimmy. Are you still with me?"

Coming out of his stupor, he begins to mutter, "I'm going to be.....I
mean--we're going to be parents!?!"

Smiling and nodding at him, Eve replies, "Yes, darling. We're going to be
parents soon. Isn't that wonderful??"

Jimmy suddenly throws his arms around his wife, and as he pulls her close to
him--tears of pure joy begin streaming down his cheeks as he weeps happily
as they are laying on their bed together. Then a thrilled Eve begins
kissing the tears on her husband's cheeks. From the first time they met,
she noticed just how wonderful he was around the children; Emily, Ilse,
Perry, and now her brother....she always knew way deep down in her heart,
what a wonderful father he would truly make to their own children they would
some day have. As she laid her head down on the right-side of his chest,
she closed her eyes....

The Burnley's small house lay at the end of a long drive. At least it
seemed
like a drive, it was mostly in open field save for a few trees and a span of
fence which surrounded the residence. The once neglected exterior of the
cream colored house was beginning to take on a almost gingerbread appearance
now with Laura to tend the place. She had planted many kinds of flowers in
the yard and had even painted the door a lovely shade of rust red. Allen
had
promised her that he would paint the entire outside of the house next
spring,
and even the inside if she wanted. Today the morning sun was shining down
brightly on the now happy home, and it seemed like something from a story
book to Gussy Dan as he approached to property.

Opening the frontyard gate that led up to the frontporch, he went inside and
pulled the gate shut, then he headed up the lane that led to the frontporch
steps and up them he stepped....as he approached the screendoor, he rapped
several times on it. As he was waiting for someone inside to open the
door, he looked around at the scenery beyond him. Then as he heard someone
opening the door, he turned back around to look up at the face of his blonde
step-cousin, Ilse. "Good mornin' Gussy Dan!" she said, then holding the
door open so he could enter, she added--"You sure are anxious to get to
school, aren't ya'?"

"Well not exactly, Ilse. Is your father around?" he asked, no sooner did he
ask, than Laura came out of the kitchen.

"Well hello, Gussy Dan! What a surprise it is to be visited by you this
morning!?" said Laura, smiling at her young cousin. "Did I also just hear
you ask about Allan?"

"Hi Laura! Yes, you did. My sister isn't feelin' too well, and Mum
wanted me to ask Allan to go see her." he replied. "It seems that she
started gaggin' when Mum was fryin' eggs for us for breakfast, and then she
suddenly run upstairs to the watercloset..."

"Hmmm--I see." said Laura. "Ilse, will you please go get your father?"

"Sure Mother," replied Ilse, really hating to leave this interesting
conversation
between Gussy Dan and her step-mother. She then ran to her father's office
and examining room....

Knocking on the door, she called, "Father!?! Can I please come in!?"

From inside, Allan opened the door and asked, "What is it, Ilse?"

"Cousin Gussy Dan needs to see you. It seems that Eve isn't feelin' well
this mornin'." said Ilse anxiously. "He also said that while his mother
was fryin' eggs for breakfast, his sister started to gag and ran upstairs to
their water closet."

"Mmmm--I see." replied Allan, as he thought to himself, ["Eve is suddenly
sickened by the smell of eggs, is she!?"] knowing full well what was wrong
with Mrs. Murray, "Ilse, you go now, and tell Gussy Dan that I'll be right
there."

Just before Ilse rejoined the twosome in the livingroom, Laura, knowing why
Eve became ill at the very smell of frying eggs, after going thruough the
same experience herself, was reassuring Gussy Dan that nothing was really
wrong with his sister, and to not worry too much about her.....

"OK, father." she replied, then she quickly ran back to rejoin her
step-mother and cousin. "Gussy Dan, father's going to get his bag, and
he'll be right here."

"Thanks Ilse." said Gussy Dan. "As soon as Allan....I mean--Dr. Burnley
leaves for my home, we can--if it's OK with you....go on to school."

"Well--OK, Gussy Dan." answered Ilse, reluctantly.

Laura giggled at that friendly exchange between the two children, and just
then Allan entered the room, carrying his black bag...

As he planted a loving kiss on Laura's lips, he added agreeingly with their
young cousin, "Going on to school will be the best thing for both of you
kids." Then to his wife, he said, "Honey, if you're not too busy with
anything today, perhaps you could look in on how our cousins at New Moon are
doing. I know that Eve's been helping Isabel and Elizabeth with the twins."

"Good idea, honey!" replied Laura, at that suggestion. "I can also let them
know why Eve won't be showing up today....and/or, for that matter--a while."

It was a little while later that Allen turned his horse into the drive of
Jimmy's and Eve's Collie farm. The morning was beginning with the promise
of a beautiful day, the crisp touch of autumn just starting to show itself
on
the breeze. Knowing that what Eve was suffering was normal and natural and
not an emergency he had been tempted to make a leisurely ride of his trip
this morning, drink in the morning air and do some thinking about his own
wonderful new life. However, he knew that Eve and Jimmy would be anxious
for
comfirmation of the news, and he quickened his pace. Reaching the hitching
post infront of the porch he was greeted by the happy and excited, yet
nervous, face of Judith.

"Good morning, Judith." Allen said climbing down from his horse and tying
the reins to the post. "I hear the Eve is a bit under the weather."

"Ummm. Yes she is." Judith agreed giving him a knowing smile, that was
immediately understood by the doctor. "She's upstairs lying down. Jimmy is
with her." She said as she led Allen into the house. "Let me take your
coat."

"Thank you." He said, handing Eve's mother the light jacket he had worn. She
hung it over the coat rack in the entry and proceeded to show him upstairs.

"She's right in here." Judith motioned to the closed door of Eve and Jimmy's
bedroom. She tapped lightly on the door, and was beckoned inside by Jimmy's
voice. Judith entered the room quietly, as Allen followed her through the
door.
Eve was lying on the bed covered in a quilt, and was protesting sweetly as
Jimmy tried to lay a fresh cool cloth across her forehead. "I'm really
feeling
much better now, dear." She smiled, and tried to push the linen away to no
avail.

Allen layed his medical bag down on the dresser and crossed the room to the
bed. "What is this I hear about you not feeling well?" He asked Eve with a
smile.

"It's kinda true, Allan, I'm not feeling too well." replied Eve.

Jimmy adding, "Eve informed me that we may be becoming parents."

Smiling at both of them, Allan inquired, "And how, may I ask, did you come
up with this conclusion?"

"I suspected it six and half weeks ago or so, Allan, when I started
skipping my months." Explained Eve. "But I didn't want to say anything at
the time little Lucy and Byron were being born. It was, after all,
Isabel's
and Francis' special moment, and I didn't want to take that away from them."

"That was very nice of you, Eve." Allan smiled. "I"m sure that they will be
as happy for you and Jimmy, as you were for them." Eve gave a hopeful smile,
anticipating the family's joyful reaction to her news.

As Jimmy stood there listening, it all began to come back to him as why his
wife was sooo guiet the whole time that they were at New Moon, during the
births of his young second cousins, Lucy and Byron. What a dear sweet
special person his "Queen of Romania" is...he thought to himself--knowing
why he loves her sooo much. She's always thinking of others, more than of
herself.

"Then..." added Eve, "this morning when Mother was frying the eggs for my
brother's breakfast. I started gagging at the very sight of them, and had
to run up here to our water closet. Allan, am I....I mean--are we really
going to be expectant parents too?"

"Well, from the sounds of what you've described, I really don't see how it
could be anything else." Allen said as he walked over to retrieve his bag
from where he had layed it. Pulling out his stethoscope he smiled. "But lets
just make sure everything is alright."

Eve returned his smile for a moment unable to speak, how she prayed that
everything was alright. Jimmy stood by the bed holding his wife's hand as
the doctor took her pulse, and blood pressure, and listened to her heart.
"Well, your certainly strong enough, and in excellent health." He confirmed.
"If you don't mind, there are a couple more examinations I need to make." He
said looking at Jimmy self conciously.

Judith, knowing very well what Allen was referring to walked over and took
her
son-in-law's right arm, and motioned him up from Eve's bedside. "We'll wait
outside." She smiled.

"But why can't I stay?" Jimmy questioned bewildered.

"Because you can't." Judith ordered. "Now, let's let the doctor do his job."
She walked him over to the door, and practically had to push him out into
the hall as he kept trying to return to Eve's side.

"I'll be right out here, honey." Jimmy yelled back to Eve, who laughed a
little as she watched her mother struggle to get her husband out in the
hallway.

Eve knew that Jimmy had probably taken up a nervous pacing outside the door
the moment it had shut behind him, but she was certain there was no reason
for such concern. She was sure everything was fine. Before she could move
the image of her husband wearing a hole in the hallway floor Allen's voice
interrupted her thoughts. "Are you ready?"

"Yes." She smiled excited anticipation in her eyes.

Much to Eve's shock Allen took out a glass syringe with a long needle
attached. Rubbing a spot in the inside of her arm with alcohol he smiled
reassuringly. "Now this won't hurt a bit, so just relax." Eve smiled back
althought she didn't believe him.

She was pleased to find out that he was right. His years of practice had
made
him very skilled at handling needles. He drew a bit of her blood and then
capped off the glass container. "I'll run some tests back in my office.
Just routine things, you understand." He said.

"Yes, I understand." She assured him. With this first challenge passed Eve
settled a bit and the anxiety left her face.

After some more routine medical tests, a few more questions about her health
and other things. The doctor finally made the announcement she had been
waiting for, comfirming her suspicions. Eve's eye filled with happy tears.
It now seemed so real. There was a life growing inside her. Her's and
Jimmy's child. As the tears rolled down her face, she realized that she
never imagined she could be sooo happy.

In the hallway Jimmy and Judith had both taken up pacing the length of the
floor. He remembered how anxious he had felt months ago when the family was
awaiting news of Isabel's condition. It had been terrifying then, especially
the way in which it had all happened. Everything seemed fine with Eve. She
was happy and calm, but he felt like he was going to jump out of his skin.
He
thought about what a kind and wonderful person she was. How she had been
there to help Isabel through her difficult time, always encouraging and
understanding. He remembered her firey anger when the parents of Blair Water
had confronted his cousin in the school yard. It had been Eve who defended
Isabel against all of them. He thought of her willingness to help where
ever
and when ever she was needed, her closeness with Emily and Ilse, and the way
she had won Elizabeth over. He beamed as he thought of what a wonderful
mother she was going to be, and he hoped he would be half as good a father.

After what seemed like a century, the bedroom door opened, the examination
was finished. Jimmy and Judith hurried back inside. He could tell by the
glowing smile on Eve's face that she had been right....and the happy
expression on Allan's face, that good news awaited him and his
mother-in-law, and soon--Gussy Dan.

"Mummy and Jimmy, my suspections were right!!!" Exclaimed a gleaming Eve, to
her mother and husband. "I'm pregnant!!!"

They both turned to Allan, and asked both at once, "Is she really, Allan??"
He happily nodded his head....

Jimmy turned his attention from his wife for a moment and looked at Allen.
"Are they alright?" He asked nervously.

"They are both just fine, and extremely healthy. She's almost exactly seven
weeks along. " The doctor smiled. " I still want you to take it easy." He
ordered Eve. "But you won't be facing the same risks that Isabel faced. I
see no reason why you shouldn't have a normal healthy time of everything."
He smiled widely.

Jimmy and Eve looked at each other, lost in their happiness. To them, they
were the only people in the room. Allen quickly gathered up his instrument,
and he and Judith quietly exited the room, leaving Jimmy and Eve alone
together to contemplate their future.

Judith and Allen walked down the stairway quietly, Judith lost in thought
most of the way turned to the doctor as they reached the landing.
"Everything was alright, wasn't it." She asked needing to be reassured.

He smiled at the concern on Judith's face and knew that Eve would be well
taken care of. "Yes." He smiled. "There is no need to worry. She is strong
and healthy and everything was fine."

Judith smiled a little embarrased at her overprotectiveness. "It's just that
she's my only daughter." She blushed.

"And you should enjoy this time with her." He said. "She is going to need
you."

"Well," Judith laughed. "I'll just have to spoil and pamper her until my
grandbaby comes."

Allen looked up the stair and thought of Jimmy's overprotectiveness that
morning. "It appears you won't be the only one." They laughed at the
thought.

"I haven't been able to get over to New Moon to see Isabel's little ones
yet. How are they all doing?" Judith inquired.

"I was over last night to check in on them, and they are doing wonderfully.
In fact, Isabel is feeling much better, and I lifted the bedrest order I had
her under." He smiled.

"Oh, I'm sure she will be happy to be up and about. It's been months."
Judith said.

"She was up and taking care of the twins before I even got down the stairs."
He laughed.

When they reached the front door Judith handed Allen his jacket from the
coat
rack and bid him a good day. She stood in the doorway as he road down the
lane, but she did not really see him leave. She was happily lost in thoughts
of her daughter.

Meanwhile, with school already in session, Gussy Dan is sitting there at his
desk gazing out the window into space. Emily was bursting to find out why
her new cousins had been so quiety all morning. She could hardly pay
attention to Francis who was doing his best at the front of the class. If
Emily had noticed she would have seen that his attentions were not truly on
school either. He had been forced to return to work after spending only one
day with Isabel and the babies. It had torn his heart out to leave them, and
his mind was definately elsewhere.

When she could stand the anticipation no longer, Emily hissed at Ilse who
was deep in thought. "Psst, Ilse." She whispered. "Ilse."

"Huh?" Ilse began to speak aloud, but caught herself. "What?" She whispered
back ducking her head from the reproach that would not be coming today.

Emily pointed at Ilse and Gussy Dan. "What's going on with you two?" She
asked.

Ilse was bursting to tell Emily what had happened this morning. She knew her
best friend would want to know that Eve was not feeling well. She couldn't
stand it. She just had to tell her. Ilse began to mouth the words. "E..."
Before she could get the first syllable out of her mouth Gussy Dan turned a
warning gaze in her direction. They were family, and he hated to keep
things
from them, but his mother would give him what for if any rumors got started
or anything happened to upset Eve. Ilse turned a red face toward the window
for a moment, and then glanced back at Emily giving her a begrudging shrug
of the shoulders.

Emily's pride welled up within her. 'Alright you two. If that's how you want
to play the game. I'll just find out some other way.' She thought to
herself.
It shouldn't be too hard with nearly half the class including the teacher
being related to each other. But just how was she going to go about finding
out. At that thought Emily too turned her face out the window, careful to
avoid looking at either Ilse or Gussy Dan lest her anger be seen to be
fading. Her mind was working overtime for the first time today devising a
plan. More than anything she hated being left out on a juicy secret. Maybe
there would even be a good story in all of it.

Meanwhile--quite unbeknowst to Emily, her aunts Elizabeth and Laura are
planning a Sunday buffet brunch, for which she'll soon be learning Ilse's
and
Gussy Dan's *big* deep dark secret. It seemed that everyone had an inkling
of what was about to occur except Emily herself.

As Laura has already approached her former home, she is humming a happy
religious tune to herself. Hopping up the step to the back porch as she's
accustomed to doing, she approaches the opened screendoor and gently raps on
its frame above the handle. Inside, she sees Joe sitting there sipping
coffee
Elizabeth had prepared for him for lunch. "Good afternoon there, Mrs.
Burnley!"
as Joe stands to greet her.

Smiling at that welcomed title, Joe addressed her by, she returns the
greeting, "And a very good afternoon to you too, Mr. Samuels! Uh...where,
may I ask, is my sister?"

"She's upstairs with your cousin and the new arrivals. Why don't you go on
up?" he answers, suggestively.

"Don't mind if I do," said she smiling graciously at him. "I haven't
visited them since their arrival." With that last statement, she began
climbing the back stairs, calling--"Elizabeth!? Isabel!?"

Stepping out the opened bedroom door to Isabel's and Francis' room, Isabel,
finally freed from bedrest and able to properly care for her new children
greets Laura with a huge smile and announces, "Why, look who's dropped by
for a visit, Libby."

"Who??" Asks the elder Murray sister, as she's drying little Lucy.

Strolling up to the opened door, Laura says, "Why me, of course! How are
you two ladies this afternoon, and how are my youngest little cousins??"

"Laura! What a wonderful surprise to see you!?" exclaimed Elizabeth handing
the baby to her mother. "We're usually expecting Eve, but we haven't seen
hide nor hair of her today."

"That's right!" added Isabel, with agreement. "Hope she's alright!? We're
more than fine, Cuz, and so are my babies." Cradling Lucy in her arm she
adeptly picked up Byron from his cradle with the other and brought her son
over to the wash basin for his bath. Trusting Elizabeth completely she
handed
the boy to her. The elder Murray was in her glory helping Isabel with the
babies. Long ago she had helped her mother care for both Laura and Juliet
when they were newborns and considered herself very skilled at the practice.

Isabel was happy for the help and gently bent down to kiss her son's tiny
cheek before retiring to the rocking chair by the fire to feed Lucy. As she
nestled her daughter against her she asked. "How is everyone at the Burnley
household?"

"We're fine too," smiled Laura eagerly assisting her sister with bathing her
new cousin. "Allan got an unexpectant visit this morning from Gussy Dan. It
seems as though Eve has been feeling under the weather recently."

Both Isabel and Elizabeth looked at each other, up on learning the latest
news about Eve, exclaimed--"Oh!?!" Isabel smiled to herself. 'Feeling
sick in the morning, is she? Oh I remember it well.' She thought. She was
fairly sure she knew what was wrong with Eve, and could not wait to
congratulate the new parents-to-be.

"Anyway," added Laura. "Due to her unexpectant illness, she won't be coming
around here for a while."

"Aaaah, that's too bad." remarked Isabel. "I hope it isn't too serious,
whatever it is. We'll really miss her coming around to help us with the
children. I truly have been lucky with all of this help that you've all
given me." She said, as she smiled at her cousins.

Knowing too well Eve's symtoms, Laura wanted sooo much to tell them, the
real reason why Eve wouldn't be coming around, but knowing after
today--Jimmy and his wife would eventually share the wonderful news with all
of them. The three women looked at each other with suspicious grins. Each
knowing what the news would be, but not wanting to jump to any conclusions.
The happy couple should be the ones to bring up the subject. Elizabeth
finished giving Byron his bath and handling the wriggling boy to Laura who
happily cooed over the infant. It was perfect timing, Isabel was just
laying
Lucy into her cradle as her cousin brought her son over to her. The new
mother smiled and laughed at her son who was full of energy today. Just as
she had done with his sister, she brought him close to her to feed the
child.

Together, as they rocked by the warm fire, Lucy dozed close by watched
vigilantly by her mother. The three seemed happy in a world of their own.
The babies father would be home soon, and Isabel could not wait to tell him
all the news of their day. She knew he would be anxious about it.
Elizabeth and Laura slipped toward the door.....

"We'll give you some time alone with your babies." Laura whispered to Isabel
who smiled her grateful farewell as her cousins closed the door behind them.

As they walked down the back stairway Elizabeth and Laura whispered to each
other about the momentous events of the past few days, and wondered at what
may be coming in the months ahead. "Laura dear, how would you like to help
me with the planning for this Sunday's buffet brunch, to take place here at
New Moon?"

"What a marvelous idea, sis!?!" remarked Laura. We haven't had a true
family gathering since the wedding....and when the babies were born. Why,
of course--I would be too happy to help. I'll also drop by and see if
Judith too, would like to join in our planning."

"Wonderful!!!" exclaimed Elizabeth. "Then it's more than settled. This
Sunday, it is."

By the time that the Murray sisters, reached the kitchen, Joe had already
left to return to the barn.

"I could ask Joe and Perry to also help us set up the tables, while we lay
out the table cloths," as Elizabeth continued suggesting, to her sister.

"Yes, we could take advantage of the last warm days of summer, and dine in
the garden." Laura interrupted smiling.

"What a fantastic idea. The fresh air and sunshine will do everyone good."
Elizabeth agreed remembering how long Isabel had been confined to the house.

"And you, I and the girls could do the cooking." Laura smiled. "I do hope
Eve will be well enough by then to enjoy the day." She worried.

"Oh, I don't think her sudden illness will last long." Elizabeth said,
putting
her arm around her sister. "I imagine by that time of the day, she'll be
just
fine." The two ladies looked at each other grinning, certain they could put
a name to Eve's secret. They both felt that Sunday would be a grand day, in
more ways than one.

"I've been through the same thing Eve's experiencing now," said Laura. "In
the morning, she'll only get sick at the sight of eggs frying in the skillet
or lying on a plate. The rest of the time, she should feel alright. Yes,
I don't see why she can't make it for the brunch, Libby--which will be in
the afternoon."

"Right sis," agreed Elizabeth, giggling. "Besides, your Allan will be here,
should she again get ill. And what, I pray tell, have you experienced the
same thing, Eve is now experiencing?"

"That he will," replied Laura, also giggling. "Morningsickness, when I was
expecting Ian's child. I was also thinking, that we could have Emily,
Ilse, and Gussy Dan helping us as well. Let's see--what do you think we
should assign them to do?"

"Morningsickness!?!" exclaimed Elizabeth. "Could Eve, by any chance, be in
the family way, dear sis!?!"

"Could be," replied Laura. "But we'll have to wait until Sunday to find out
for sure."

"Since you're the doctor's wife, Laura dear, you'll find out much sooner,
won't you?" added Elizabeth, grinning inquisitvely at her sister.

"Yes, I probably will." said Laura, nodding in complete agreement. She would
be sure to make a full inquiry of her husband when she returned home.

"Be sure to let me know what you find out." Elizabeth grinned and nudged her
sister. The two dissolved into giddy laughter as the elder went to fetch the
tea pot from the stove, and the younger two china cups.

"Perhaps we should see if Isabel would like some tea." Laura wondered.

"Oh, I don't think she cares a wit about tea or anything else right now
except those two precious little ones of hers." Elizabeth smiled.

"You're right." Laura agreed her gaze turning toward the staircase. She
knew
that upstairs behind the closed door Isabel was enjoying more happiness than
anyone could ever dream of, being alone with her babies. Now it appeared
that
Eve would know the same in a few months. It was a happiness that Laura had
at one time thought she would have too, but that all been taken from her.
She
was happy for both of her cousins. She had tried over the past months to
fill
her mind with other things. Her new marriage and family, her sister's
return,
the changes at New Moon, Emily's growing had all been happy deversions.

However, what Laura never told anyone was the way that sometimes at night,
even with the love of her life, Allen, now sleeping soundly beside her, she
would wake up crying longing for the baby that was taken from her.

"I know it must have been hard for you the past few months..." Elizabeth
stuggled to begin. "...watching Isabel's pregnancy, after you had lost your
own child."

Laura looked away for a moment. There had been no time for she and Elizabeth
to talk about all that had happened to them both, and it now seemed awkward.
"Yes, I suppose it has been." She whispered, trying to hold back a tear.

"I've wondered how you are doing, and now with maybe Eve..." Elizabeth broke
off.

Laura gave a brave smile and tried to dispell her sister's worries although
she knew it was no good. "Oh, don't get me wrong. I'm so happy for Isabel,
she deserves all the happiness she has found, and Eve too..." Laura began.

"But..." Elizabeth continued for her sister.

Laura chuckled a bit to herself. Elizabeth always could read her mind.
"But... I wanted my baby, too. " Laura finally broke, tears beginning to
stream down her face.

Elizabeth reached out and took her sister's hand. "Of course you did." She
comforted her. "No matter who the father was, it was still yours, and you
loved your baby very much. I know that." She said.

"It was so stupid. Why did I run out into those woods? I should have found
Jimmy and made him take me home." Laura sobbed. "I wish I could change it
all. I do anything to change it."

"I know." Elizabeth said sympathetically as she moved closer to Laura and
put her arms around her. "But you can't blame yourself. Jimmy told me what
happened. You were frightened. You thought you were saving your child."

"But I didn't, did I?" Laura asked painfully. Her guilt more than she could
stand.

"You cannot blame yourself for what happened. The only people to blame are
that slimy first husband of yours and that thing, that woman he kept."
Elizabeth seethed, cursing them both silently in her mind. "Good ridence to
them both, they'll never hurt you again." She said holding her sister close
to her.

"But my poor little one had nothing to do with that." Laura said, still
trying to find reason for blame.

"You're right, it didn't." Elizabeth comforted her. "What happened was
horrible and tragic, and in a way you will never recover. But think of what
you do have now. You are married to the man you truly love, who truly loves
you. You have a new daughter, a beautiful home, and a family who loves you
very much. One, I might add that is much larger than it used to be."
Elizabeth said, laughing a bit in an attempt to get Laura to smile.

It worked, Laura did smile even just a little. "I know, and I am so very
grateful for my blessings." She said.

"Listen to me." Elizabeth began. "You will have that chance again. I just
know it."

"How can you be sure? I'm getting older, and ..." Laura countered.

"I just have a feeling, and you know my feelings are never wrong." Elizabeth
interrupted."And as for your age, you're still younger than Isabel, and look
what she just did."

Laura smiled grateful for her sister's encouragement. "What did I do without
you here?" She asked.

"You became a strong, self sufficient woman." Elizabeth said proudly,
fighting back a tear of her own. "One who was ready to take on the world
rather raise her child with a tyrant. One who realized where her happiness
lay, and went out and got it. You have treasures in store for you that you
can't even imagine yet. Of that I am certain."

"I'm still so glad you came back to us." Laura hugged Elizabeth.

"Me too." Elizabeth grinned, and sniffed the sobs back into her throat.
"Now, shall we start planning Sunday's brunch, or are we going to blubber
all
day?" She laughed.

Laura began to laugh too, maybe for the first time in a long time she
thought to herself. "Alright...What should we serve?"

The two women spent the remaining part of the afternoon discussing the
preparations for the gathering on Sunday, each realizing how good it was to
have the other back. It seemed that not only had the Murray family grown
larger in the past months, it had also grown stronger.....

Hearing the voices of Francis and the children; Ilse, Gussy Dan, Teddy Kent,
and Perry.....and a lagging behind quiet Emily, still puzzled as why her two
cousins wouldn't share their secret with her. Elizabeth and Laura turned
to glance out the window in their direction, then back at each other....when
they saw the lagging Emily suddenly break into a run....a run for the porch,
without so much as a "See ya' tomorrow!" coming out of her mouth. Then she
threw open the screendoor, ran past them and up the back stairs.

Since Teddy had to leave for home, he said--"I'll see ya' all tomorrow.
OK!?"

"OK, Teddy!!!" replied the three children, and Francis.

As Francis, and the rest of the children entered the door, Elizabeth, first
to speak--"Good to see you all back this evening. What, may I ask, is
wrong with Emily?"

"I'm really not sure. She's was acting awfully strange at school." Francis
replied, his mind only partly on the conversation as he knodded an absent
minded greeting to the ladies and headed quickly to climb the stairs to
where
he knew Isabel and the twins would be waiting for him. He could not wait to
see them, it felt like he had been away from them for a lifetime.

Elizabeth and Laura smiled at each other over the new father's anxiety, and
then turned their attentions to the children who were searching for an after
school snack. "Well, how about all of you?" Laura inquired seriously.

Ilse, Gussy Dan, and Perry replied all at once, "We don't know."

"Well, something must be wrong, or she wouldn't behave this way," replied a
worried Elizabeth.

"Perhaps she's mad because we couldn't share our secret with her." Gussy Dan
said. "How can we tell her, when even we don't even know ourselves!?"

Then both Elizabeth and Laura looked knowingly at each other, certain as to
what their niece's problem was, "I see." said the elder Murray sister.
"Well, children, I guess that you two aren't really to blame here."

"I did, however, tell Ilse and Gussy Dan to keep whatever it is that's
ailing Eve, to themselves, Libby," said Laura. "So I'm to blame for this.
If you all excuse me, I'll go up to have a little talk with Emily. I don't
want any of our children to be unhappy."

"Why, of course, Laura." replied Elizabeth.

And with that, Laura scurried up the stairs, down the hall to Emily's room,
for which she rapped on her niece's door. "Emily? It's your Aunt Laura.
May I come in please? There's something I would to talk to you about!"

Hearing her sobbing niece say, "Yeah, you can come in, Aunt Laura."

As Laura entered the door and closing it behind her, she went over and sat
down on the bed beside Emily. "There now darling," said Laura. "I didn't
mean to hurt you, dear."

"What do ya' mean--hurt me?" asked Emily. "You didn't do anything."

"Yes, I did." replied Laura. "When Gussy Dan came to our house this
morning, to tell Allan that his sister needs to see him, because she was
feeling quite under-the-weather this morning....I specifically asked them
not to say anything about Eve to anyone. In doing so, I inadvertantly hurt
you."

Sitting up on her bed, Emily then asked, "Then their secret has somethin' to
do with Eve?"

"Yes, dear, it does." replied Laura.

"What's wrong with her? She is alright, isn't she?" asked a now getting
concerned Emily.

"Oh she's alright, Emily dear, " said Laura, reassuringly. "I wish that I
could tell all of you children, but under the circumstances--it's entirely
up to both Eve and Jimmy to share their wonderful news with the rest of us."

As if a lightbulb suddenly lit-up in her head, a great big smile lit up
Emily's face, "Ooooh, I see--now!" Giving her aunt a knowing loving
embrace, "I feel sooo much better!"

Returning the loving hug with her niece, she asked "Then you'll come with me
back downstairs now?"

"I sure will, Aunt Laura!!" replied Emily happily. To herself, she knew
she knows something that not even Ilse or Gussy Dan yet knew abour his
sister....
____________________


What with the changing color of the of the leaves of the trees to a reddish
hue, contrasting against a beautiful clear blue sky, in the rather cool
early Sunday afternoon following church; the Murrays, Carpenters, Burnleys,
and the Kinches in their Sunday best, began gathering on the New Moon Farm.

The children, dressed in their Sunday finest, were running about to and from
the set-up tables; blanketing them with tablecloths, napkins, silverware,
and such....helping to ready for the buffet brunch. The men too, are
gradually helping by bringing out different cooked dishes made the night
before by their prospective cooks; Elizabeth, Judith, Laura, Eve and Isabel.

Isabel, still not quite ready to venture out in public had stayed at home
with the babies this morning, who at only a week old were also not ready to
make their debut quite yet. Francis, never one for church had also behind
with his wife and children. He helped Isabel make some of the last minute
preparations for the gathering, but mostly the two of them spent the morning
fawning over their newborn son and daughter. Malcolm, the proud new
grandfather, had accompanied the family to church as much to brag about the
twins as to give thanks for their safe delivery into the world, and for
their
health as well as that of his daughter. Isabel knew that if her father was
to be believed the whole town would think her children had been born already
able to talk, walk, and recite scottish poetry. She didn't mind his
exaggeration, she was happy in his pride over the babies, and the new
strength of their relationship. She did wonder, however, where on earth he
had kept himself the past week. She had thought she would have to
practically
drive him away in order to spend any time with her babies. However, he had
been strangely absent from the goings on at New Moon. She thought perhaps
he did want to give her time with the twins, or maybe he was spending the
days
spreading tall tales about her children's talents all over town. She laughed
to herself at the image of it. Then of course there was his growing
fondness
for Judith. Isabel smiled to herself again thinking of the way she had
noticed
his eye wonder in Mrs. Kinch's direction from time to time. Perhaps he had
made a nusance of himself over at the collie farm all week under the
pretence
of talking over business with Jimmy. She would have to be sure to ask Eve
about that.

Emily strode around all morning wanting to burst with the news she
suspected.
She was pretty sure that Ilse already knew from overhearing her father's
conversations with Laura, and Gussy Dan suspected something was up, but
didn't quite know just what. Perry was happily oblivious as he gladly
helped
Joe bring the twins' bassinettes from upstairs and set them in the warm
sunshine. Emily wanted to yell,'we'll be needing three of those soon,'but
she
bit her tongue. Even if everyone knew, she was happy that she also knew only
Aunt Laura was aware of her secret.

"You're positively clucking this morning." A voice disturbed Emily's
thoughts. It was Aunt Elizabeth. It was then that she realized she had been
staring at everyone with a strange selfsatisfied grin on her face.

"Huh, what." Emily asked.

"You look like you're just dying to tell some secret." Elizabeth pried a
little more.

"Who, me. No I don't have a secret. What secret? Wouldn't know anyone who
would have a secret." Emily tried desperately to cover, unaware that
Elizabeth was aware of the news and that Emily knew.

"Well, whatever you're thinking about, save it for later and help us bring
the food out." Elizabeth instructed."Your cousin Isabel's done quite enough
work for today and she could use some help. Eve could use a hand too."
Elizabeth said, trying not to give any information away.

"You're absolutely right. We can't have an ex..." Emily stopped herself
under Elizabeth's prying gaze. "Exxxxtra nice pair of ladies like those
exxxxhausting themselves." She finsihed hoping her cover had worked. She
didn't wait around to find out, but hurried to the house to see what she
could do.

Elizabeth was glad that Emily left when she did. It was just then that Joe
came up beside her. "Looks like it's gonna be a right nice day." He said.
"Maybe the last of the year."

"Yes." Elizabeth agreed, unable to meet his eyes. Ever since the night in
the
barn, and the moment in the kitchen when they had almost kissed each other
she had been strangely uncomfortable around him. They had not had much
chance to explore their feelings further with all that had been going on,
and
they now seemed further apart than ever. The only thing in the world she
wanted was for him to take her in his arms and kiss her, but she now feared
that would never happen.

Joe, sensed Elizabeth uneasiness and hoped she could not detect his. It was
all he could do not take her in his arms right then and there, but he knew
that if he did he would lose her forever. No, he needed to be patient and
tactful, a skill he feared he did not possess.

"Well, everyone'll be wantin' to eat pritty soon. I'd best get back to
fixin'
up the chairs." Joe said hoping for a nod, a smile anything to keep him from
losing hope.

"Oh...yes." Was all Elizabeth could whisper as Joe turned to leave. Her gaze
never straying from the ocean, her mind following him.

Inside the kitchen Isabel was busy tending to the babies who were restless
in their cradles which had been set by the warm fire. Isabel insisted that
the
twins always be near her even if their beds had to be moved throughout the
house ten times a day. Laura was standing over the table spooning the last
bits of a fruit salad into a large bowl. "I'll take that." Eve said offering
to help. She had felt surprisingly well today, and was eager to show she
could still be helpful around the house. Emily came through the door just as
Eve was starting to pick up the heavy bowl.

"No, Stop!" Emily yelled, startling everyone in the kitchen. Lucy began to
cry.

"Oh, Emily look what you've done." Laura chastized her.

"I'm sorry Cousin Isabel." Emily said turning a worried eye in the direction
of the cradles.

Isabel picked up Lucy and cradled the baby against her. The crying stopped
almost immediately."It's alright dear." She said knowing why the girl had
called out."She's just fine, see." Isabel rocked the little girl a bit, and
it became obvious that the child's distress had been very temporary.

"Good." Emily said relieved and then turned her attentions back to Eve.
"Please let me take that outside." She said. Eve thought that perhaps the
child was right and happily obliged. She remined herself that she was going
to have to learn to be more careful.

A little while later after all the food had been set out everyone was ready
to enjoy the feast. The family sat around the table which promised to cave
in from all the food. Elizabeth sat at one end of the table, under that
large old trees in the front yard, Malcolm at the other end. The children
were lined up along one side of the table eyeing the food hungrily. Laura
and Allen talked quietly smiling to themselves beside Elizabeth, with Judith
seated next to them. Isabel and Francis were seated to Malcolm's side. The
babies were wrapped snuggly against the early autumn chill. The little
twosome were finally sleeping soundly in their basinettes which had been set
beside their mother. Isabel was watching them protectively, vigilent to
every sigh and twitch. She feared they would become too cold out in the air
and had placed a sheer lenghth of fabric over each bassinette that shielded
them from the breeze, while allowing their parents a view of the dozing
babies. The hoods of their bassinettes shaded their little bodies as the
beds warmed in the late morning sun. Isabel herself was wearing a warm
shawl while the other ladies had remained in summer dress. This was
precaution
insisted upon by her husband. He did not want to see her become ill by
catching a cold since she was still weak from giving birth. Everyone was
amazed at how Duke, the collie Malcolm had chosen for his grandchildren now
having grown quite a bit, sat protectively by his young charges as if he
already knew what his job was.

Everyone sat trying not to notice the way Jimmy and Eve were lovingly
whispering to each other. They had seen how protective he had become of her
that morning. He would hardly let her do anything. Now as the moment grew
closer for their big announcements they each felt almost apprehensive, as if
unsure of how the family would take the news. They did not realize that
most of the family already suspected and was bursting to congratulate them.

It was Isabel who tentatively broached the subject of an announcement.
"Everyone." She began taking Francis's hand. "We have something we would
like to share with all of you!!!"

Emily looked at them with shock, her young mind traveling at light spead.
'What, she can't be having another baby too, not this fast.' She thought to
herself, unable to think of any other announcement than the one she hoped
Eve and Jimmy would make.

The family turned toward Isabel, Jimmy and Eve actually a little relieved
that they would have a few more moments to gather their thoughts .

"Well....," Isabel began forcing a worried smile that didn't go unnoticed.

"What is it dear? Is everything alright?" Laura asked concerned.

"Everything's fine, thank you." Isabel smiled uncomfortably. "It's just
that,
we. That is, Francis and I...well." It was obvious she was struggling with
news she was not sure of how the family would take.

Francis seeing his wife's uncertaintly hoped he could use his gift for words
to help her with their news. "Well, we have some news and we hope that all
of you will understand the reasons behind our decision."

Isabel gave him a loving and thankful look, he was always quick to put
himself infront of anything that caused her worry. She gave his hand a
reassuring squeeze and continued. "We have come to a decision about whom
the babies' Godparents will be." She said.

"Oh, who?" Laura and Elizabeth both said at once.

"Well, before we tell you, we want you to know how special and dear all of
you are to us. You helped us when it looked as though all was lost. If not
for we wouldn't be together, and the babies wouldn't even be here." Isabel
went silent for a moment at that horrible thought tears coming to her eyes
remembering the day she almost lost the twins, while Francis put his arm
around her.

Isabel recovered her thought and composure. "We don't want you to think that
we wouldn't be happy for any of you to raise our children if something,
Heaven forbid, should happen to us. It's just that we also owe two other
people a huge debt of thanks, and they are also so dear to us. We want the
children to be close to the other side of their family as well, and for that
reason...we are going to ask John and Sarah to be the twins' Godparents."
Having said that Isabel bit her lip and waited for the disappointed looks
and veiled hurt, but they did not come.

"Of course we understand." Laura smiled. "I for one think it's a wonderful
idea. But I truly hope unecessary." She added quickly.

"I agree. I'm sure they will be thrilled." Elizabeth said, while Jimmy and
Eve nodded their agreement.

Isabel turned apprehensively to Malcolm. "Father?" She said, waiting for his
reaction.

Malcolm sat quietly for a moment. His silence was being misinterpretted as
anger. Isabel prepared for a tirade about outsiders raising Murray children.
Instead, Malcolm turned to her his eyes filled with tears at the thought of
anything ever happenning to her, all he could manage to say as he reached
over to kiss her cheek was, "I approve." The family registered its relief
and approval in congratulations and well wishes to the couple and their
little blessings.

Then Jimmy stood up, adding "And while we're on the subject of
announcements." As he looked around at all the anxious faces of his and
his Eve's relatives, a huge smile began gracing his handsome face and his
blue eyes to sparkle, "Eve and I have a very special surprise that we want
to share with all of you!!! Our big surprise is....we just found out early
this week that we're going to soon become parents ourselves!!!"

Emily jumped up from her seat. "I knew it, I just knew it." She shouted
happily running around the table to to hug her two cousins.

Eve smiled widely as she returned the girls embrace. "How did you know?" She
asked innocently.

"Uh, Oh. I just saw how happy you both were and I was hoping..." Emily
trailed off not wanting to let her know that half the family was suspecting
the same thing.

"What wonderful new." Elizabeth exclaimed as most of the family rose to
their
feet to congratulate the couple. The men pumped Jimmy's hand and slapped him
on the back as the ladies cheerfully hugged and kissed both him and Eve. She
radiantly returned their joy.

"I'm sure I'll have lots of questions to ask you." Eve smiled at Isabel as
the two laughed together.

"Ask my anything at all." Isabel smiled. "I just so happy for both of you.
Now I understand why you've been so taken with my wee ones.

"Oh, I hope you don't mind." Eve said.

"My goodness no. Come over anytime. It'll be good practice for you, and you
should bring Jimmy along for a few lessons." She grinned whispering slyly.
Eve found that comment wholly amusing and the ladies dissolved in laughter.

As the early afternoon wore on, the Murray's enjoyed themselves over the
food
and conversation and hopes for the future. The front lawn of New Moon was
filled with happy laughter, children playing, loving couples, and good
friends. Emily stood watching it all. How different everything seemed now
from when she first arrived as a little girl. She thought of how frightened
she had felt, and so alone. She thought of everything they had been through
over the recent years. Finally, they were a family, all of them. They were
home and they were happy. She prayed it would always be that way.