DESTINY
Chapter 7

Lucas was sitting behind his desk filling out paper work when he heard an irate feminine voice from the outer office.

"Ben, I told you take your damn hands off me!"

Ben rapped on Lucas' office door and then opened it. "Lucas, here she is. Call me if you need me." After ushering Selena into the middle of the room Ben stepped back out, pulling the door shut behind him.

Selena stood glaring at Lucas for a moment, once she saw the dangerous glint in his eyes she knew she had definitely overstepped the line between danger and stupidity.

Lucas sat back in his chair, arms folded across his chest. "Selena honey, you care to explain to me why you're pushing Mr. Chambers down a dangerous path, not only for him but for you as well?"

Selena, looking exactly like a frightened rabbit, thought for a moment. She had definitely underestimated Lucas' feelings for Dara. Realizing the huge mistake she had made, she hung her head in silence.

Lucas, interpreting her silence as her acceptance of the situation, shook his head. "Selena, you are definitely a stubborn woman, that's for certain. I'm only going to say this one time, so listen close, because I won't give you the benefit of a warning next time. I'll just pay you a visit myself and save my words. Do I make myself clear?"

Selena remained silent as Lucas spoke, "Now, I am definitely going to marry Dara. Whatever we had, and believe me, it wasn't much, is over. Don't force me to make our ending a more permanent one. And I suggest that you steer clear of Zach Chambers, I'm certain he won't mean anything to you but trouble. Now if you don't mind, I have things I've got to take care of today."

Lucas got up and grabbed his jacket, stopping by the desk to tell Ben he was leaving, he glanced over his shoulder, "Ben is going to take you home, Ms. Coombs. I hope we won't have to meet each other again like this." With that said, Lucas walked out of the building.

Selena looked up into Ben's sympathetic eyes, "I warned you Selena, I'm telling you for your own good, let it go."

Selena nodded her head at Ben's admonishment, realizing that there would be no more games played, or schemes without Lucas knowing exactly where they had come from. Smiling sadly at Ben, "You were right, Ben. I think I'll do exactly that."


Dara and her sisters returned home, with just enough time to shower and get ready to go the funeral home. It had been a full day, they were able to get dresses for themselves and the wedding dress and veil Dara had wanted. Just as they were all about to leave, Lucas walked through the door.

After kissing Dara soundly he asked, "Did you get your dress?"

Dara nodded, then remembering, went to her purse and searched through her wallet pulling out the credit card he had handed her that morning.

Lucas held up his hand in refusal of it, "Keep it, honey. I already called and asked the bank to send a duplicate of all my cards, so you'll have your own set. In the mean time you may need that one."

Dara stared at him in shock, "Lucas, I do have my own credit cards, as well as my own money."

Lucas placed his finger against her lips, silencing her. "And you still will have your own money. It's my place to provide for you, so just say thank you and make me happy. OK?"

Dara shook her head, smiling at him. "You plan on spoiling me, that the idea?"

Nodding in agreement, Lucas stated, "That's the general idea. Besides, I enjoy spoiling you."

Kara, reluctant to break up the interchange between them, cleared her throat discreetly. "Don't you guys think we need to get going?

Dara sighed heavily, "I suppose you're right, I can't say I'm looking forward to this."

Letting everyone else go ahead of them, Dara and Lucas hung back so Dara could lock the door.

Taking her hand in his Lucas whispered, "It's all right, sweetheart. I'll be right there with you, every step of the way."

Dara squeezed his hand in acknowledgement of his statement.

Kara glanced at the vehicles, "Who is riding with who?"

Lucas noted Kara's mini-van, "Could you find the funeral home by yourself?"

Kara nodded, "Yeah, Dara pointed it out on the way to the stores today."

Lucas nodded, "All right, you go ahead and we'll meet you there. We still have to pick up mama and Caleb."

Dara, realizing the obvious reason for not taking his car, handed him her car keys.

Having foreseen leaving his car, Lucas had placed his portable radio in Dara's car. While he turned the key in the ignition, the radio came to life.

"Lucas, you there?"

Glancing at the device, annoyed, he picked it up. "Yes Ben I am, I am also off duty. I'm headed for the funeral home now, why?"

Ben broke the static once more, "Mama Lucy just called and asked me to remind you to pick her and Caleb up, that's all."

Shaking his head in exasperation at his grandmother's worrisome nature, he replied, "Yes Ben, tell her I'm on my way to get them now. Out." Turning the radio off he placed it under the driver's seat.

Dara looked at him in puzzlement, "Are you sure you should do that, I mean what if it's an emergency?"

Lucas glanced at her, "You're more important, besides Ben knows where I'm at so don't worry over it. Not to mention, I'm off duty, remember?"

Lucas pulled into the parking lot of the funeral home, after having collected mama and Caleb from his house. Noticing, as he pulled the car in to the parking lot, the scene in front of the doorway,

Dara's face took on a pained look as she exclaimed, "Oh lord, what is he doing?"

Lucas could see the source of her agitation, Zach was in front of the doorway, apparently highly intoxicated, while Mara and Kara were trying to either restrain or reason with him.

When Lucas brought the car to a stand still he noticed the same moment as Dara, that Alex was using the column of the awning for support as he was attempting to calm himself.

Dara didn't waste any time as she jumped from the car to run up the sidewalk, Lucas only managed to get out, "Dara, wait!" But she was already halfway to the door before he could finish. "Damn!" Grabbing the radio from under the seat, he thrust if at Caleb, "Get Ben over here, now!" With that he bolted from the car himself. He had almost caught up to Dara when her brother broke free of his sister's grasp lashing out effectively striking Dara across the face with enough force to knock her to the ground.

Zach sobered quickly when he saw Lucas close the distance between them.

Grabbing the younger man by the jacket, Lucas jerked him up right. "You son of a bitch! I warned you what would happen if you ever touched her, didn't I?"

Zach had never thought he would be glad to hear a siren so much as he was at that moment, looking into the other man's eyes he had no doubt that regardless of the presence of others this man would make good on his promise.

Ben raced up the path attempting to grab Lucas' arm to force him to release the other man, but Lucas, in his rage, easily shook him off. Ben, unsure what to do, looked to Lucilla and Caleb now standing with the others for a suggestion. Both shrugged their shoulders they no more than Ben knew how to harness the rage Lucas was now displaying.

Dara, who was being checked over by her sisters and father, broke from their protective circle to rush over to Lucas. Tugging frantically at his arm, she begged, "Lucas, don't, please. He isn't worth it, look I'm fine, please honey, let him go!"

Through the haze of rage, Dara's voice finally registered with Lucas. Turning his head, he looked at her through the red haze, which as soon as he was sure she was really fine, began clearing. Glancing back at the man still in his grip, he cautioned, "You are damned lucky she was here. This time."

Zach didn't miss the man's meaning, or warning.

Ben looked at Lucas in uncertainty, "Lucas, what do you want to do with him?"

Lucas turned and asked, "Did you see your mother?"

Zach nodded silently, fear still evident in his eyes. T

Tossing him away from himself towards Ben, he replied, "Lock him up for tonight. Go by the boarding house and get his stuff. Escort him to the funeral tomorrow, when its over I want him gone." Turning to Zach, he stated emphatically, "Don't think I'm doing this for you, or out of decency. I'm doing it because I know that's the way Dara wants it, so you have her to thank for it, not me. If I had my way, lets just say you don't even want to think about that one. And by the way, if you ever touch her again, I will have my way. Do we understand each other?"

With fear in his eyes, Zach nodded. He had definitely overstepped his boundaries with this man, where his sister was concerned.

Lucas, pulling himself under control once more, glanced at the shocked look on all the faces in front of him. "I'm sorry, I hope all of you won't hold that scene against me, but I meant what I said, I will not see Dara mistreated or abused, by anyone." With that said, he grabbed Dara's hand and proceeded to enter the funeral home.

Dara's sisters and father all looked at each other and shook their heads.

Kara was the first to break the silence, "Well, we know he won't let anyone hurt her, that's for sure. I think she found the right one, if she can harness that temper he has." With that said they joined the others inside.

Jed met them at the door, apologizing, "I'm sorry, Ms. Chambers, but I had to force your brother to leave."

Mara, deciding to take the initiative, asked, "Why, what happened?"

Jed looked extremely uncomfortable discussing the incident, but proceeded. "Well, your sister asked that your mother be buried with her wedding ring, I caught him trying to take it off her finger. So I made him leave. I'm sorry for the commotion."

Lucas, ignoring the shocked gasps from the others, patted the man sympathetically on the back. "It's all right Jed, you didn't know what he would do. Don't worry about it, it's done and settled with now."

Satisfied that no one was upset with him, Jed asked softly, "Are you all ready or would you like to wait a few minutes?"

Lucas noticed the way all three women grabbed each other's hands, as though facing a common enemy.

Dara nodded to Jed. "We're as ready as we're ever going to be."

Jed opened the doors to the room, allowing them to enter.

Mara, being the oldest, approached the coffin that held the shell that had once been their mother, accompanied by her son, Mikey. After several moments, she and her son turned, both wiping the tears from their eyes.

Kara glanced sadly at Dara, as she and her children ventured to the alter. She, like Mara, spent several moments praying with her children, and then placing a kiss on Gwenna's cheek, she turned with her children and followed to sit with Mara.

Dara, noticing the way her father had hung back, asked quietly, "Daddy, are you all right? You go ahead and go, I'll wait."

Alex nodded sadly and went ahead of his daughter. When he reached the alter, he began talking softly so no one would hear his words. Then, when he was finished, he leaned over and kissed his former wife's cheek. Turning to join his two daughters, Lucas noticed the man was wiping his eyes.

Dara shook her head, "They never stopped loving each other."

Lucas glanced down at her impassive face, he wasn't sure before, but he could now see she was trying to turn her emotions off to get through the ordeal. Placing his arm around her, he asked, "Are you ready now?"

Dara gave a slight shake to her head as she stated softly, "I don't want to do this, but I have to, don't I?" Looking into his eyes for confirmation of her statement, she wasn't surprised when he nodded his head.

"I'm sorry darlin, but yes you do. It's the only way to put this behind you and get on with your life."

Dara stiffened her shoulders with resolve as she walked slowly towards the casket, which held what remained of her mother.

Lucilla and Caleb came up to stand next to Lucas, inquiring, "Lucas, aren't you going up there with her?"

Lucas looked into his grandmother's eyes, "In a second mama, she needs to say her goodbyes by herself."

Lucilla nodded, trusting her grandson's judgment.

Lucas waited as he watched Dara's face for what he knew was coming. He could see her wrestling with the acceptance of the situation. Although, this wasn't how she wanted things to be, it was how they inevitably must be.

At that moment, the door behind them opened silently admitting Matt and Loris Crower followed by Mrs. Adams. Taking in the scene before them, both Crowers approached Lucas, as Matt demanded, "Why aren't you up there with her, Buck?"

Lucas, sighing in exasperation of the man's intrusion, stated challengingly, "I am not with her at the moment, Harvard because she needs to say her goodbyes to her mother in privacy. If that satisfies your curiosity."

Matt looked chagrined at his overbearing ness. "I apologize, I should have known better. By the way, how is she taking it?"

Lucas turned, noticing the way Dara's chest was beginning to heave with the attempt to hold back her tears, stated curtly, "Excuse me." With that he went over and wrapped his arms around Dara, pulling her head to his chest as he attempted to comfort her. "It's all right, sweetheart. Let it out, there's no shame in your tears. Let it go." Dara began crying then, allowing Lucas to lead her to a seat with the rest of the family.

Loris Crower stood gaping at the sight in front of her, not believing the scene she had just witnessed.

Matt turned and looked at his wife questioningly, "See, I told you, now do you believe me?"

Loris nodded her acceptance, "You told me, I just didn't believe it was possible. But her really does love her. Their really getting married?"

Mrs. Adams ventured to answer Loris' inquiry, "That's what they decided, although I'm not certain they've decided on a date yet."

Caleb, having heard the interchange, volunteered, "Yes ma'am they did, Lucas said two days after tomorrow, so her family can be here for it."

Loris shook her head in disbelief, "Well, I guess miracles never cease, do they?"

Matt took Loris' hand and led her over to introduce her to Dara, as well as meet the remainder of the Chambers family. "Dara, I'd like you to meet my wife, Loris."

Dara rose from her chair and reached out, embracing the woman.

Loris, who had held out her hand in expectation of a handshake, was now wearing a look of shock by the show of affection.

When Dara pulled back she stated, "Matt has told me a lot about you. I'm sorry I haven't met you sooner, but I want to thank you for all the food you were so thoughtful to send to the hospital for me. I really appreciated it."

Loris looked at the girl, surprise on her face. Matt had been right, this woman did have a way about her that drew people towards her, like a moth to a flame. Smiling, Loris replied, "You're more than welcome, Ms. Chambers. I'm sorry I couldn't do more for you than the food."

Dara shook her head, "Call me Dara, please."

Loris returned, "All right, but only if you'll call me Loris.

Once the formalities were observed, Dara turned and hugged Matt. "Thank you both for coming, Matt. Let me introduce you to my family." Dara made the necessary introductions, explaining that Matt had been Gwenna's attending physician. As well as introducing Mrs. Adams, who was hanging in the background in apparent uncertainty.

As promised, Ben returned towards the end of the evening. After paying his respects at the alter, he approached Dara and Lucas. Nodding to her sisters and father, Ben addressed Dara, "Dara, I sure am sorry about your mother. If you need anything let me know. I'll do what I can." Motioning for Lucas to join him in the corner, Ben explained, "Lucas, I got him locked up for tonight. He pretty much passed out after I got him in his cell."

Lucas nodded, then inquired on another matter. "Ben, since it's on your way, how about dropping mama and Caleb off, if you wouldn't mind."

After Lucas explained that Ben would take them home, Lucilla nodded her agreement with the plan. "All right, Lucas, besides, Dara looks pretty well done in for tonight anyway, we'll meet you here for the service tomorrow. Come on, Caleb, let's go tell Dara goodnight." They walked over to Dara's chair; Caleb reached out and hugged her tightly. "Night, Dara. I sure am sorry about your mama, but I'll be here tomorrow, ok?"

Dara smiled tenderly at him as Lucilla knelt down and hugged the younger woman close to her.

"You go home and get some rest tonight, tomorrow we'll get this behind us, then you can put things in order again. I'll be here tomorrow too."

After they had left and just as Lucas was about to join her, Jed approached her, "Are you folks expecting anymore visitors tonight?"

Dara and her sisters shook their heads.

"Well, if you all don't mind, I'll be locking up now. I need to get the chapel ready for tomorrow's service."


After gathering outside, it occurred to Lucas that none of them had had any food since lunchtime.
"Is anyone hungry, besides me?" The children immediately voiced their agreement to suffering from the same dilemma, as did the adults, with the exception of Dara.

"Darlin, how about we go and get something to eat?"

Shrugging her shoulders, Dara replied, "Fine with me, I'm not really hungry, though."

Nodding to Kara, Lucas instructed, "Follow me, I know just the place."

After everyone had satisfied their appetites and were heading home, Lucas glanced towards Dara. Even in the dark confines of the car he could still sense her conflicting emotions. Reaching out and taking her hand, he gently squeezed it to let her know he was here if she needed him.

Still looking out the window, she returned the gesture, in acknowledgement that she would come to him if she felt the need.

Once home, everyone made their way to their rooms to make themselves more comfortable for the night.

Dara went into her own room, since her father had decided to watch television for a while, she took a shower before changing into her nightgown.


Everyone, with the exception of the children, converged at the kitchen table to relax after the stress of the evening. After Dara had gotten everyone a cup of coffee and took her seat, she turned to her sisters. "I didn't get a chance to ask you two, why were you holding Zach back like you were?"

Mara and Kara glanced at each other before Kara shrugged, "Well, when we got there he was talking about going back in there to straighten Mr. Simms out. Daddy tried to talk to him and he knocked him out of the way, so we were trying to restrain him as best we could." Looking apologetically to Lucas she continued, "We were hoping that you would hurry up and arrive. We just didn't think Dara would be the first one out of the car."

Shaking his head, Lucas stated, "Well, as soon as the service is over tomorrow he is being escorted out of town."

Dara noticed for the first time that evening how quiet her father had been since leaving the funeral home. "Daddy, are you all right?"

Alex turned and smiled sadly at his youngest child. "I'm fine, baby. I'm just a little tired I guess."

Dara nodded her agreement of his statement; it had definitely been a busy and trying day for all. "I think we're all pretty much done in for tonight, daddy. Not to mention, we still have to tomorrow to get through. Daddy, are you sure your up to a wedding this soon after mama's funeral?"

Alex considered his daughter's inquiry for a moment. Through her entire life Dara had always placed everyone else's needs above her own. Looking at her now, Alex became more determined then ever that she would come first this time. "Baby, I'm sure. Besides, we need something good to balance all of this out. You and Lucas need to go ahead and get married."

Dara smiled indulgingly at her father, "All right daddy, if you think that's the best thing then we'll go ahead with it."

After finishing his coffee, Alex bid all goodnight and made his way to the bedroom to retire for the evening.

Kara shook his head after the door had closed, "I guess this took more out of him than we thought it would."

Mara nodded her agreement, "Not to mention our dear brother showing up in his condition and making such a scene."

Dara glanced covertly at her sister in the hopes that she would drop the subject of their brother.

Kara, seeing the look, addressed her older sister. 'I'm tired, Mar, lets go on up and get some rest, we'll need it over the next couple of days." With that they both left the kitchen, going to their own rooms. Dara began gathering the cups to place in the dishwasher.

Lucas sat in silence, finishing his own cup, contemplating the next few days. Getting up to hand her his now empty cup as well, he could sense her edginess. Realizing that she was in need of some seclusion he lowered his head to place a deep kiss on her lips. Raising his head, he stated, "I'm going to watch some TV, if you need or want me just yell, OK?"

Dara glanced at him in surprise at the calmness with which he had accepted her mood. She had been afraid to simply tell him she needed to be alone for a while, in the fear that it might give him the impression that she didn't want him around her or that she didn't enjoy his company. She loved Lucas with all of her heart. The truth of the matter was that she had not had one minute to herself since the ordeal of her mother's illness had begun, and the tension of it was now eating away at her. Looking straight into his eyes she asked softly, "Do you know how much I love you, not to mention how much I appreciate you're being here?"

Lucas placed his hand along her cheek as he smiled tenderly and replied, "Hopefully, as much as I do you."

After finishing with the dishwasher, Dara let herself out onto the porch from the kitchen door, making her way to the porch swing. Lowering herself into the seat she smiled as a memory of her mother assailed her. "Dara Cherice, you're just like your grandmother, she always had to have a rocking chair and a swing." Lifting her hand to brush away the tears that were now falling, she spoke aloud. "Oh mama, I wish you were here to see me get married, not to mention be here for my children, but I guess God had other plans for you."

Lucas stood in the shadows, unseen, taking in the scene before him. Watching as Dara worked through her emotions. Deciding that she was in need of some time to herself, he went back into the house to finish the movie he had been watching on TV. An hour later, when the movie had ended, Lucas decided to go and check on Dara. When he opened the front door and glanced at the swing, he smiled lovingly at the sight in front of him. Dara had fallen asleep curled up in the swing, careful not to wake her, he gathered her in his arms and took her inside.

Deciding that she would be much more comfortable there than on the couch, he made his way to her mother's room and gently placed her on the bed, pulling the covers over her. Lucas considered his options for a moment before following his impulse. Removing his boots and vest, he partially unbuttoned his shirt and laid on the bed next to her, pulling her close to him he put his arm possessively around her as he realized just how well she seemed to fit next to him. With this thought in mind, he settled down to find some rest.


The next morning Kara and Mara were awake before everyone else. Not seeing either their sister or Lucas on the sofa when they entered the living room, they glanced at each other in uncertainty.

"Where do you think they are?"

Kara shrugged her shoulders, as puzzled as her sibling. "I don't know."

Just then, they heard the muted sound that was unmistakably that of a man snoring. Following the sound they found themselves standing before the slightly opened door of their mother's former room.

Mara looked at her sister in apprehension and suspicion. "You don't think they did, do you?"

Kara glanced towards the door and then back to her sister, "Well, the door is cracked, we could peek."

Approaching the door in caution, Kara softly pushed it open a bit more. The look on her face changed from one of trepidation to one of smiling tenderness. Motioning for her sister to step closer, she allowed her a glimpse of what she herself had found. Their sister was snuggled warmly beneath the covers, while Lucas was not only lying on top of the comforter, but fully dressed as well, with the exception of his boots and vest. The only intimate contact apparent was the arm he had lying across Dara in a possessive manner.

Pulling the door to quietly, Kara looked at her sister in satisfaction. "Well, at least we know he's a gentleman, he's had several opportunities, but hasn't acted on any of them?"

Noticing the look of aggravation on Mara's face she inquired, "Well what's the matter with you?"

Mara shook her head as she replied, "I was just thinking about something, that's all. If we had even suggested our husbands sleep in the same bed with us before we got married and not fooled around, they would have thought we were nuts. Here, she doesn't even have to make the suggestion, he thinks of it on his own!"

Kara has a wide grin on her face as she agreed. "Tell me about it, oh well, at least we know he loves her enough to want to be next to her with or without benefit of being intimate."

Quietly, they made their was to the kitchen to start breakfast.


Dara awoke to the smell of coffee and bacon. Taking a second to orient herself, she realized that not only was she not on the sofa or in her own bed, but that there was the unaccustomed presence of another person lying next to her, evidenced by the male arm thrown across her over the covers. Turning carefully, so as not to awake him, she glanced behind her to see Lucas pressing firmly next to her. Noting the fact that he was not only lying on top of the covers, but also wearing his shirt and pants, she smiled tenderly as she gently pushed a stray wisp of hair away from his brow and eased her way out of bed, allowing him to sleep longer. Fastening her robe around her waist, she made her way to the kitchen to help with breakfast.

After Kara had handed her sister a glass of juice and she took a sip, Dara noticed that both her sisters were giving her the oddest of looks. "All right, what is it? There's something on your minds."

Smiling mischievously, Mara stated, "Oh, nothing we were just wondering how you do it, that's all."

Dara looked at her sister in puzzlement, "What do you mean, 'do what', Mara?"

Still smiling, Mara quipped, "Sleep next to somebody who looks like he does and not take the opportunity presented."

Dara blushed furiously, while Kara, unable to contain herself, laughed.

"Cute, sister dear. You're funny."

Mara seeing that she had embarrassed her youngest sibling went over and placed her arm around Dara's shoulders. "Don't pay me any attention, sweetie. I'm just jealous, you seem to have found the perfect man. I mean he's gorgeous, he's smart, and loves you a lot. Not to mention he's willing to do anything to make you happy. I'm just picking on you."

Dara smiled at the admission her sister had just made, realizing it took a lot for her to admit her jealousy. "It's okay."

Lucas entered the kitchen, once again fully dressed.

Dara got up and prepared his coffee, handing him his cup.

Lucas took the cup from her hand and pulled her to him to kiss her soundly, oblivious to the presence of her sisters. "Morning, darlin sleep well?"

Dara smiled at the memory of the security she had felt being held in his arms through the night. "Yes, I did, but you didn't have to make yourself uncomfortable for my sake."

Lucas shrugged, "I've slept in a lot worse places, and for not as good a reason." Looking into her eyes, he knew she understood his meaning. It didn't matter where he was, as long as he had Dara next to him.

Dara blushed at the unspoken words, excusing herself, she ventured to the bathroom to take her turn for a shower.


When they arrived at the funeral home, it was to find everyone ready to begin the services. After everyone had taken his or her seats, Ben came in, with Zach in tow. Dara glanced anxiously at Lucas, with apprehension in her eyes.

Lucas, interpreting her feeling, placed his arm around her. "Honey, I'm sorry, but this is the only way I can think of to keep him from making another scene."

Ben, having seen Lucas, nodded in the direction of the seat in front of Lucas and Dara.

Lucas nodded his agreement with the unspoken request. He wanted the man in front of him, not behind him.

Once everyone was seated, the preacher whom Dara had asked to conduct the service, Father Simmons, began. After the conclusion of the opening prayers, Father Simmons pulled an envelope from his jacket. "I know this is highly irregular, but Mrs. Chambers gave me this letter the last visit I paid her, before she went to the hospital. She asked to have it read at her funeral service. I've read over the letter, and I believe that the words on this paper would be of more comfort than any words I could possibly say."

Dara and her sisters glanced at each other in puzzlement, as Mara leaned over to inquire, "Did you know about this?"

Dara shook her head, "No, I had no idea. Mama never said anything."

Father Simmons cleared his throat as he perched his glasses on the tip of his nose. "To the loved ones I'm leaving behind, first of all, I don't want any of you to be sad for me. I am in a much better place now. I've been battling this terrible disease now for over a year, and I am looking forward to finally being able to rest, so shed no tears for my passing, but I want each of you to know the importance you've held in my life."

Glancing at Alex, he continued, "To my former husband, Alex. I want you to know that I never ceased to care about you. I realize that we had a lot of outside interference in our marriage, that had we both been stronger, perhaps we could have held it together, but there isn't any use in fretting over something that cant be changed. Just know that I still cared up until the end, and that our children are that much more precious to me because they are ours."

Dara glanced down the row of seats at her father, who was now wiping the tears from his eyes. Without realizing she had done so, Dara squeezed Lucas' hand, drawing strength from the contact.

Lucas looked down as he felt the slight pressure increase from Dara's touch, realizing the reasoning behind her actions; he placed his arm around her shoulders and drew her closer to him, as Father Simmons continued.

"To my eldest daughter, Mara. You were my first child and first loved. I realize that I made a lot of mistakes as a mother, the only thing I can say in my defense is that I tried my best and let my heart lead my decisions. I only pray that as a mother yourself, you can now understand the quandary of decisions I was faced with. I ask for your forgiveness for the mistakes I did make, and ask also that you understand that although they were still mistakes, they were made out of love and not spite."

Mara, who was now visibly weeping, was holding her son close to her, her mother's final missive having touched a deep note within her heart.

Continuing, Father Simmons addressed Kara.

"To my daughter, Kara. Despite everything that has transpired before between us, I ask you, like your sister, to forgive me for the mistakes I have made as your mother. I can't help but think when I look at you and the gift you have with the children you teach, that somewhere your father and I gave you the gift of understanding. I see the mother that you yourself have become, as well as your sister and feel rewarded because you two have become wonderful mothers in you own rights. My wish for you is that your children are as much the gift to you, that you were to me."

Kara, who was smiling sadly at her two children, followed Mara's example and embraced them closer to her.

Casting a wary glance at Zach, Father Simmons continued. "To my only son, Zachary. I wish that I could tell you how much pride I have in you, but the sad truth is the only happy thoughts I can focus on, are the ones of you when you were a baby. Your father and I had such wonderful hopes for you, especially after you recovered from your illnesses. My wish for you is that you learn acceptance of your faults and correct them before it is too late for you. You have the potential to be a good man, if you would only let go of the hatred and jealousy you harbor towards others, but know this, whether you mend your ways or not, I will always love you, I may not like you, but I will love you."

Zach, who had hung his head in an attitude of shamefulness, was now weeping at the sting of his mother's final words. Whether it was because of his realization of the disappointment he had inflicted on his mother, or for his own selfish reasons, no one could fathom.

Turning and smiling kindly at Dara, Father Simmons intoned, "To my youngest child, Dara. You were the unexpected gift God sent our family. You have always had the gift of being able to find the best in a person and bringing that out in them, perhaps that's why you're so good at your chosen profession. You have always been able to make people smile, in spite of themselves, due mostly to your wonderful personality and sense of humor. I know that you and I have been together for a long time, and that even though your sisters and brother love me too, you'll be the one to feel the loss more, because of those reasons. Even though you don't realize it, you'll never know how special the gift of your being with me when my time comes is going to be to me, or how comforting. I don't think, however, that you shall be lonely for long, and with that in mind.."
Father Simmons went to the next sheet of paper and glanced next to Dara as he continued, "To Lucas Buck."

At the mention of his name, Lucas looked up sharply, as did everyone else.

Then, as if on cue, the preacher continued, "Don't look so surprised, just because my body is debilitated does not mean my eyes or mind are. I would have to have been blind not to see how much you love my daughter, or that she loves you. I would be lying if I said I was handing her in to your keeping without reservation. You're a hard and cold man when you choose to be, but I have never seen any of that in you when it comes to my daughter. I still say she's too good for you, but I believe with all my heart that you'll protect and cherish her. So, with that said know that I give you my blessings to marry my daughter."

Lucas smiled tenderly at Dara, who was openly weeping at her mother's words. Pulling her closer, he allowed for her to draw from his own strength and support.

After the last prayer was said, Jed Simms can in with his assistants to place Gwenna's body in the hearse, which was now waiting outside.


Dara became horrified when Jed approached her. "Ms. Chambers, we never discussed the pall bearers." Dara's eyes widened in embarrassment as she turned to Lucas in panic, "Dear God, with everything else, I forgot to make arrangements for pall bearers. What are we going to do?"

Lucas took quick control of the situation as he turned to Jed to inquire, "Can you and Jim and Tim help?"

Jed nodded his agreement, "Yes, but we're still in need of three more."

Lucas instructed Dara, "Stay here a moment." Walking calmly over to where Ben and Matt Crower were now deep in discussion he explained the situation to them as he asked for their assistance.

Ben was the first to speak, "Sure, I don't mind. I told you anything Dara needed I'd gladly do."

Glancing at Matt her waited his response. "I don't see a problem with it, besides Dara's a good friend. I wouldn't want to let her down."

Lucas nodded his head in silent, but grateful appreciation, and then returned to ease Dara's fears over the dilemma. "Don't worry I took care of it. OK?"

Dara nodded as she stated softly, "Thank you."


When they arrived at the Trinity Oaks cemetery, Lucas motioned for Matt and Ben to follow him as they assisted Jed and his two assistants with placing Gwenna's casket on the perch, ready to be lowered to her final resting place.

Lucas took the seat that Dara and Caleb had saved for him, taking Dara's hand in his to give her reassurance that he was here for her.

Dara glanced at him, and then turned to face the minister, trying desperately to contain her emotions.

After the final prayers had been spoken and the Chambers family stood to each lay a rose on top of the casket, the group gathered moved beyond the gravesite to discuss their plans for the noon meal, while Jed released the lever to lower the casket into its place.

Dara, hearing the purr of the small motor, turned and looked forlornly at the sight of her mother being lowered into the ground for the rest of eternity.

Lucas, catching her glance, placed his hands on her shoulders and turned her to face him. "Dara."

Still watching the morbid scene, Dara didn't seem to hear him.

Giving her shoulders a small shake to get her attention, without attracting anyone else's, he repeated, "Dara, honey look at me."

She turned and faced him, as he caught and held her gaze, speaking softly. "Darlin, there's nothing that you could have possibly done to change this. You heard what your mother said in her letter, she's glad that she's at peace. Love her enough to let her go, we have to get on with our lives now. We're going to be starting a whole new life together in two days time, try to focus on that, all right."

Dara nodded sadly, "You're right, I'm sorry. I know I'm being selfish."

Lucas put his arm around her, drawing her close to him as he led her to the parking lot. "It's all right, you've been through a lot and you're entitled to be a little selfish." Pulling her closer, he vowed, "We'll work all of this out, I promise."

When they joined the others, Ben informed Lucas that he was releasing Zach to leave Trinity.

Glancing at the younger man, Lucas issued quietly, "I'm certain that we won't be seeing you around again, will we?"

Shaking his head fearfully Zach quickly went to his car and left.

Since there was a lot to accomplish before the wedding, the usual custom of gathering at Dara's home had been foregone. Opting instead to simply gather at a restaurant for a shared lunch instead. After everyone had satisfied their appetites, the waitress appeared with the various bills, before anyone had an opportunity to argue Lucas motioned for the girl handing her his credit card he instructed, "Put them all on this, I'll pay for it."

Matt and Loris, as well as Mrs. Adams, glanced at him in embarrassment, as Loris observed, "You didn't have to do that, sheriff. We're quite capable of paying for our own meal."

Lucas understood the woman's reluctance to accept anything he offered, but he brushed the argument aside explaining, "I don't mind, besides it's my way of thanking you for everything you've done for Dara while her mother was in the hospital."

Accepting his reasoning, Loris allowed the subject to drop.

Lucas looked to Dara and asked quietly, "Do you want me to go ahead and tell them about the plans for the wedding?"

Dara eagerly nodded her head in acceptance of his suggestion, preferring for him to be the one to deliver the announcement.

Lucas looked at the three acquaintances sitting in front of them, "Dara and I want to tell you something, we're going to be married the day after tomorrow. Dara wants her family here with her and that's as long as they can stay. Needless to say, I'm sure you would all like to be there."

Having already heard the information from Caleb, Lucas' announcement came as no surprise to the rest of the group who all eagerly seized the invitation, promising to be at Dara's house at the appointed time.

Leaving the restaurant and heading out the door, Dara noticed that Lucilla and Caleb went with her sisters. "Wonder why they're not riding home with us?"

Lucas turned and grinned at her mischievously as he opened the door for her; once he was settled in his seat he looked at her continuing to smile suggestively.

Dara looked at him in question, finally unable to resist the grin on his handsome face she asked indulgingly, "All right, what is it?

Lucas inquired, "How would you like an afternoon, just the two of us?"

Dara looked at him unsurely, "But the others,"

Lucas finished her statement, "Are well aware, why do you think I sent mama and Caleb back with Kara? I talked to her and she said she'd cover for us. Come on, let's do something fun, just us."

Dara considered for a moment before asking ambivalently, ""What's your definition of fun, Lucas?"

Lucas smiled at her with a combination of invitation and lechery in his face. "Not what you're thinking, besides we're saving that for our wedding night, remember?"

Dara blushed furiously, disconcerted that he had fathomed her thoughts, she was going to have to learn to control her baser instincts when he was around, that was all there was to it.

Lucas, seeing her embarrassment, placed his hand over hers. "It's all right, honey. I was only joking with you, I didn't mean to embarrass you. I was thinking about a little sight seeing that might be right up your alley, how about it?"

Dara considered; it had been a long time since they had any time alone and an afternoon away form everything and everyone was very appealing. Finally, smiling she replied, "Sure, why not, lets go."