Title:  Reunification

Author:  Lisbeth

Rating: R

Feedback:  One word.  Three syllables.  Essential.

Authors Note:  After this chapter, there will be one more left for "Reunification."  After suggestions and serious thought, I am considering re-writing this story, but from August Dimitri's point of view.  I don't know if I should just let sleeping dogs lie, or try and write things from a male perspective.  We will just have to see.

Chapter 18:  Wedding Days and Birthday Girls

            On the second day of the New Year, Grace began to move her things into August Dimitri's house.  Grace didn't have too much to bring, mainly just clothes, books, and cd's.  Surprisingly, it was done in one day.  Grace wanted everything to be settled in before the spring semester would start. 

            Even though the house had two bedrooms, August had always used the second room as a spare room for furniture and other things that he didn't really know what to do with. 

            "You know, we really should clean out that room." Grace said as the two added her books to his already huge collection.

            "I know.  I imagine the dust bunnies have taken over.  Some of that stuff I would like to give to the local homeless shelter."

            "That's a good idea.  About how long do you think it would take to clean it up, walls and everything."

            "I would say a few good hours, but nothing we couldn't handle.  It wouldn't hurt if we just redid the entire room; you know, paint it and everything.  Our first big project."

            "What kind of room would you want to make it into?"

            "Well, a library wouldn't be a bad idea, considering that I think our books total almost in the hundreds."

            "One hundred and twenty-two to be exact." Grace said.  "It would make a nice reading room, or office even, being that you will be busy with your writing career and grading papers and what not."

            "Just as long as it doesn't have that stuffy feel to it.  I wouldn't want to feel like I was in some episode of Masterpiece Theater or something."

            "I don't know, you might look good with a pipe in your mouth."

            "Very funny." August said as he lightly hit a book against Grace's shoulder.

            With the passage of time came spring and all of the changes that the season brings.  Grace had started the spring semester with full force, taking in sixteen credit hours at the university.  Her classes were five days a week, much to her dislike, while August returned to teaching.  He didn't like leaving his pursuit of a PhD undone, but the pull of teaching had won out the battle in the end.  He started off as a teaching assistant to a woman who was going to retire that summer.  The next fall, he would take her place.

            Even though Lily was a little shocked at the fact that her daughter was moving in with August so soon, she still offered to help her daughter pack up her things when the time came.  Jake harbored a little resentment at the idea, but he still knew that it was Grace's decision, not his.  He would admit to anyone, that he had warmed up to his daughters significant other, but he still found it difficult to take in at times. Jake's main concern was that Grace was indeed happy – and she was.

            "What time do you want to get up tomorrow?" Grace asked as she set the alarm clock.

            "Oh, I guess 6:30 would be good.  You're going to walk tomorrow right?"

            "Yes."

            "I think I may go with you."

            "I'll warn you – I walk fast, and I don't wait behind for stragglers." Grace said as she continued to mess around with the clock.

            "I'll take my chances." August said as he crawled into bed.

            Grace walked into the bathroom to brush her teeth.  A minute later she walked out of the bathroom and walked towards the bed.  She wasn't really paying attention, but something immediately caught her eye as soon as she reached the bed.  On her pillow rested a black velvet box.  An immediate shock came to her.

            "What's that?" Grace said deadpan as she kept her strong gaze on the box.

            "I don't know?" August tried to say innocently.  "Why don't you open it up and see."

            "I………….don't know if I want to."  Grace said.  "God, that didn't sound right. I'm sorry. I just made a complete jackass out of myself."

            "Just open it." August said smiling.

            Grace reached for the box and opened to find an amber ring sitting in it. 

            "I saw it in a shop window a few weeks ago.  I wasn't too sure if you would like it, but I thought that I would just give it a shot and see."

            "It's beautiful – really beautiful."

            "It's not an engagement ring – more like a commitment ring.  I just didn't expect the reaction you had at first.  I'll take some of the blame for the suddenness of it though."

            "I'm sorry if it came out wrong.  I honestly thought that it was "the" ring for a few seconds."

            "I know you're not ready for that Grace – we're not ready for that, at least, not yet.  I fully intend on giving you "the" ring one day though."

            "Thank you." Grace whispered as she took the ring out of the box and observed it more carefully.  There was an inscription.  Grace read it to herself.  "Love A.D."

            "I didn't know what else to put on there, so I just went for the minimalist approach." August said as he approached her.

            "I love it." Grace said. 

"Amber always reminded me of you.  It is something so natural, pure, almost untainted.  It never really needs much to make it stand out on its own." August told Grace as she smiled at him.  "Well in this case, a lovely woman's finger will do just fine."

Grace's eyes were beginning to well up with tears as she tried to think of something to say.  She always came up empty though, but she could only smile at him.  She could only hope that he could somehow read her thoughts in her eyes.  And odd as it was, he knew.

"Sshhhhh.  I know." August said as he placed his fingertip on her lips.  She responded back by kissing the finger.

"I love you." Grace said looking at August.

            "Let me put in on for you." August said as she handed the ring to him.  He slipped the ring on her wedding band finger.

            "I always heard it was bad luck to wear rings on this finger." Grace said.

            "Well, this one will bring us good luck.  I love you so much; I hope you know that." August replied as he kissed her. 

            Grace kissed him back and crawled into bed with August.  "How could I not." Grace said as she lie next to him.  It felt weird to have a ring on that particular finger, but she was beginning to love the feeling it gave her. 

Karen Sammler's wedding to Henry Higgins was going to begin in a matter of time. The Delroy's backyard was prepared and ready to host the event.  Karen and Henry had chosen simple flower arrangements that consisted of white roses and lilies of the valley.  Karen originally wanted her daughter to be the maid of honor, but Jessie insisted that it be Judy. 

The wedding dress was a simple white sleeveless linen dress that fell slightly past her knees.  Karen always intended for the wedding to be a small and simple ceremony for close friends and family.  Judy's dress was lavender and closely modeled after Karen's dress. Her hair was pinned up and the bouquet of choice was small one consisting of white roses. 

Eli and Hayden had arrived a week earlier and were staying with Karen and Henry.  The two were asked to play the wedding serenade as Eli's mother walked down the aisle.  Zoe had arrived with Lily and Rick a few hours earlier to help in making sure that everything was going according to plan.  The justice of the peace was running a little late, but overall, things were going pretty good.  Katie and Jessie had been at the Delroy's since the early morning. 

"I can't believe this is happening." Karen said to herself in the mirror.  Jessie was putting the finishing touches on her mother's hair while Judy brought the flat sandals that Karen had chosen to wear to her.

            "Mom, calm down.  You're going to be fine.  It's not like you haven't done this before." Jessie said.

            "Yes, but I think I'm more nervous now than I was when I married your father."

            "That was a long time ago though."

            "But some things don't change."

            "I bet he's just as nervous as you are." Judy said reassuringly.

            "Well, what if the justice of the peace doesn't show up on time.  What if the food is bad? What if I trip down the aisle?"

            "Ok, stop it.  The food looks wonderful and you won't trip because you are wearing flat sandals."

            "I just got off the phone with Mr. Seldon.  He is on his way and will be here, if not exactly on time, a few minutes late." Judy said.

            "Breathe." Karen kept telling herself.  "Who says you can't do this the second time around?"

            Eli was tuning his guitar tightening and loosening the strings as he delicately listened to the sounds.  Hayden was sitting next to him wiping her bow and reading over the sheet music that was going to be played.  Katie walked up to them dressed in a black pencil skirt with a gray blouse.

            "Hey, you two nervous?"

            "Us, nervous, never." Hayden answered in her Australian accent.  Hayden was dressed in a simple navy blue suit that brought out her chin length blond mane.  Her skin was lightly bronzed, as one would expect from someone who lived in Australia. 

            "So is everyone here?" Eli asked.

            "Well, just about everyone.  Grace and August should be arriving any minute now."

            "Oh yeah, I've been dying to see that." Eli said.

            "You're not going to give her any crap about that are you?" Hayden jumped in.

            "I just want to see it for myself."

            "Well, I'm sure Jessie told you that they're living together now." Katie said.

            "I'm cool with her seeing whoever she wants, but I can't help but feel a little weird about it.  Hello, the guy used to be her teacher."

            "So, is he cute?" Hayden asked.

            "Hayden!" Eli asked.

            "Well, he's got red hair and eyes that are either blue or green.  One could almost spend an hour debating over that subject alone.  He's going to be a published poet this coming summer and I personally think he is wonderful for Grace."

            "Red hair.  Eli knows I just love those redheads." Hayden said jokingly, poking Eli with her cello bow.

            "Ha. Ha.  I hardly know the guy ok.  All I know is that Grace was big time depressed for a good while after he had to resign.  No one else noticed it, or at least didn't make an effort to talk to her about it, and she would never tell me anything." Eli retorted back.

            "Well, it didn't help that you made fun of him when all of those rumors started." Jessie said as she walked into the conversation.

            "How's mom?" Eli asked.

            "She's nervous.  The usual jitters."

            "Where's Henry?" Katie asked.

            "He's welcoming in the guests last time I checked." Jessie said.

            "How many people were invited again?" Hayden asked.

            "I think around forty-five." Katie answered.

            "Nervous?" Jessie asked.

            "Just a little bit.  This is our first American audience."

            It was then that they heard a vehicle pulling up.  Katie walked to the window and peered out to find that Grace and August had just arrived.  August was dressed in a suit and Grace was wearing a maroon dress.  As they entered the gate that lead to the backyard, the two looked around at the surroundings. 

            Sydney and Michael Delroy were well known for having the best garden in town, let alone of the biggest.  At least once a year they would win the local chamber of commerce's yard of the month award.  It didn't hurt that Michael was a botanist also.  Sydney and Michael were also good friends of Karen and Henry's.  When Karen was listing possible places for the wedding, the Delroy's insisted it be held in their backyard.

            The flowerbeds were in full bloom and a little gazebo was in the center of the yard.  The backyard was divided up into the usual two sections, one being for the bride's family and the other for the groom's.  There were vines that stretched on the gazebo that gave way to little flowers.  It almost looked like something from a fairy tale.

            "Hey you two!" Zoe said as she walked towards August and Grace with her camera around her neck.  "Isn't this the most beautiful thing you've ever seen?" She continued as she tightened the grip on her camera.

            "Are you the wedding photographer?" August asked.

            "No, but I figured these shots would be good for my class."

            "Where's everyone else?" Grace said looking around.

            "Well, Mom and Rick are chatting it up with some people who I have never even met.  Simon is playing with Henry's nephew somewhere.  Last time I checked, Jessie and Katie were talking to Eli and Hayden.  They're going to play the wedding serenade."

            "Where are they?" Grace asked.

            "The living room.  It's supposed to be their rehearsal space."

            Grace and August walked into the house, trying to wade their way around the guests.  Finally, they made their way to the living room where Jessie and Katie were still there with Eli and Hayden.

            "Hayden Bothwell!  Long time no see." Grace said as she saw her stepbrother's girlfriend.

            Hayden got up from her seat and ran up to Grace.  "I missed you so much!" Hayden said as she hugged Grace. 

            "Hey Grace." Eli said as he walked towards her. 

            "It's been so long." Grace said as she hugged him.

            "Almost a year last time I checked."

            "Hello Mr. Dimitri, or is it August?" Eli asked as he went to shake his hand.

            "August please." He replied as they shook hands.

            Even though Grace feared there would be a little tension, she saw some of it dissipate when the two of them shook hands. 

            "So, how is your mother doing?" Grace asked Jessie and Eli.

            "Nervous, as usual.  We've given her a nickname – Nervine." Eli stated.

            "We're still waiting on the justice of the peace to arrive though.  He said he was going to be a few minutes late."  Jessie said.

            While everyone continued on with the conversation, the ring of the doorbell was heard.  Jessie opened the door to see a slim man with glasses and black hair standing at the door.  He was dusting his pants off a little.

            "Hello.  I'm Marshall Seldon.  This is the Delroy residence am I right?"

            "Yes it is, come on in." Jessie said as she welcomed him in.

            "I'm sorry that I'm late.  Flat tire and all."

            "We were expecting you a little later really."

            "Well, I'm here now." Mr. Seldon said smiling.

            "You've got a little dirt on your sleeve." Grace said as she waved her hands around the spot on her arm as if it would somehow erase the dirt from his jacket.

            Suddenly noticing, "Oh, thank you." Mr. Seldon said dusting his sleeve off.

            "I'll go get mom and Henry." Eli said as he walked out of the room.

            Twenty minutes later everyone was taking their seats and getting ready for the wedding.  Henry was waiting next to Mr. Seldon while Eli and Hayden began playing Pachelbel's Canon in D minor while the flower children walked down the aisle.  Judy then walked down aisle with Henry's brother on her arm.  When the two reached the end of the aisle, they moved inside of the gazebo each standing on the side of Mr. Seldon. 

            It was then that Eli and Hayden started playing the wedding serenade.  Everyone stood up to look at Karen as she walked down the aisle by herself carrying the bouquet.  Anyone would say that she looked like a million bucks.  As she walked down the aisle she smiled directly at her daughter as she walked by her.  By the time the serenade was over, Karen had made her way into the gazebo. 

            Marshall Seldon began the ceremony with a little chit chat revolving around the neighborhood and how nice the residents were, in regards to helping him with his flat tire.  A few laughs were shared, but eventually Seldon got to the point. 

            "Do you, Henry Higgins, take Karen Sammler to be your lawful wedded wife in sickness and health, till death do you part."

            "I do." Henry said beaming.

            "And do you, Karen Sammler, take Henry Higgins to be your lawful wedded husband in sickness and health, till death do you part."

            "I do." Karen replied.

            "By the power invested in me and the state of Illinois, I now pronounce you husband and wife.  You may now kiss the bride."  Seldon announced.

            Jessie and Katie began to shout and clap as the two kissed.  Everyone else who attended soon followed suit.  It was then time to get the party started and the Delroy's had everything ready to go.  The two French doors that led into the dining room were opened and everyone was allowed in.  The caterer had everything ready to serve as soon as the doors were opened.  A small band was hired to entertain everyone and when people walked into the house, they set up their instruments outside.  Big Bang Theory began their set as soon as they were ready to go.

As Big Bang Theory continued on with their big band, jazz infused, marathon of music, everyone continued dancing, enjoying the setting and the atmosphere evoked by it all. It was nighttime and the Delroy's had hung white lights all over the backyard to give the place an ethereal feel.  It still felt like a fairy tale to all those in attendance. Grace and August danced along to the bands cover version of  "Mack The Knife."

            "I didn't know you could dance this well." Grace said as they two danced.

            "I love surprising you.  I recall telling you once that you could call me Mr. Surprises."

            "I like August Dimitri more though."

            "Ok, that'll do just as well." August said as he dipped a laughing Grace.

            "I'm really getting into this kind of music."

            "Then we have to go to New Orleans.  It is, after all, the birthplace of jazz.  It is beautiful there, almost a country of its own.  There's a story for every street and it is one, if not the, most haunted city in the United States."

            "Someone's been watching their Travel Channel."

            "I have a cousin that lives there.  She and her husband give tours around the city.  We would have to go in the fall though, the humidity and heat in the summer is absolutely dreadful."

            "I'll clear my books up for it." Grace said as they continued to dance.

            As the song ended, everyone applauded the band as they took a small break.  The stereo system was brought out and Billie Holiday's voice soon came out of the speakers.

            "Excuse me, can I cut in?" Zoe said.

            "Sure.  I need a break from twinkle toes here." Grace said as she let go of August's hands.

            "Thanks." Zoe said.

            Grace looked around and spotted Hayden chatting with Jessie and Katie walked towards the little group when Eli suddenly was in front of her, stopping her dead in her tracks. 

            "Care to dance?" Eli asked.

            "I guess so." Grace said sarcastically.

            "So, he is the one." Eli stated.

            "I think so – in fact, I know so." Grace replied.

            "I remember when Jessie told me that you had him in one of your classes.  I didn't know whether to be happy for you or sad.  I was just worried about how you would handle the situation."

            "You don't care for him?"

            "I never said that.  It's weird, that's all."

            "It's also weird that you're in college and dating the first chair of the Sydney orchestra instead of some wild girl from a punk band."

            "True. I'll give you that one."

            They both smiled at the comment.

            "I haven't seen you smile like that in so long.  I wouldn't even be able to remember the last time I saw one."

            "He is a safe harbor; he reminds me of a big teddy bear at times. The world is scary but when I'm with him I feel like everything is in its right place.  You know that warm feeling that you get when you know that everything is alright – that's what it's like when I'm with him." Grace glanced at August, still dancing with Zoe. 

            When he saw her looking at him, he winked at her.

            "I think Zoe is dancing with every person of the opposite sex tonight." Eli said.  "I saw her dancing with Henry's father three times already. I guess that's what happens when you don't have a boyfriend."

            "I don't know.  Dad says that she's been eyeing this guy at work, Jared.  Apparently it's a love hate relationship – the best kind.  So, any big plans regarding Hayden."

            "I don't know.  I honestly think that I could spend the rest of my life with her, but she's very independent.  She needs her space every now and then."

            "And what's wrong with that?"

            "Nothing.  I think it's one of the things that I love about her.  I'm not afraid to take the next step, I've been tempted, but I like where we're at right now."

            "There's nothing wrong with that."

            "Yeah, but it doesn't seem like that when I hear that you are living with August after seeing him for a few months."

            "We have history – that's the catch." Grace said.

            "How could I forget?" Eli responded.  "Seriously, I'm happy for you.  I know you don't really need my approval or anything, but still, go for it.  What about Jake?"

            "Dad is still in the 'trying to adjust to it' period.  I don't think he was all too keen about me moving in with him.  He'll get used to it though."

            "And what about this ring?  Have your parents seen it?" Eli said as he waved her left hand around.

            "It's a simple commitment ring ok.  They haven't seen it yet.  In fact, I really haven't seen mom and Rick around." 

            "Dad said that Simon wasn't feeling too good a little while ago.  He had a little too much fun at the buffet table I think.  I've never seen a kid eat so many Italian meatballs."

            "When are you and Hayden leaving?"

            "In two days.  Hayden has to be back in a few days to begin rehearsing for the orchestra's next show.  Plus, I have a big exam coming up next week and I haven't even started preparing for it yet."

            "What course?" Grace asked.

            "Psychology – Adolescent to be exact."

            "Sounds interesting."

            "It is, but I'll stick with music. So, there aren't going to be any wedding plans for a long time."

            "Not anytime soon."

            "And he's ok with that."

            "We both are.  He knows that I'm not ready for that.  I've always wanted to wait until I was done with school and at least had a full time career before ever settling down."

            "But he might be sixty before that happens." Eli joked.

            "Eli, shut up!" Grace retorted back.

            "And I'm assuming that you two aren't waiting until you're married until you – you know….."

            "I'll say it again – shut up Eli." Grace said laughing.

            A few hours later it was time for Karen to toss the bouquet.  Jessie, Katie, Grace, and Zoe were among the women who were in the crowd.  Karen tossed the bouquet and just about everyone jumped up for delicate prize.  But as soon as it landed in someone's hands, everyone backed away to see just who had ended up catching it.  Grace and Jessie backed away to give the person some room.  Katie held the bouquet up in the air as she ran towards Jessie.

            "No you didn't!" Jessie stammered as she kissed Katie.

            "Ok, I bribed your mom into tossing it my way.  I'm joking!" Katie replied.

            "So, when are we going to get the invitations?" Grace joked.

            "So, Jared is totally giving me little clues that he's into me.  But I want him to just flat out ask me out." Zoe ranted in the Manning Manor kitchen.  Grace was kneading some bread dough while Lily was chopping up vegetables.

            "Why not just ask him out?" Grace said.

            "Grace!" Lily said.

            "Come on, this isn't the 1950's.  A girl can ask out a guy if she wants to.  I say you should just go for it."

            "I don't want to seem desperate though, even though I sometimes feel like that.  Marvin says he is always seeing him stare at me." Zoe said as she looked at her mother and sister.

            "What kind of clues does he give?" Lily asked.

            "Well, he sometimes lightly brushes against my arm when he walks by me.  He puts his arm around me sometimes.  Dad likes him; he's a good worker.  Plus, he has a twenty year life plan."

            "Twenty year life plan." Lily asked confused.

            "Yeah, he wants to go to Northwestern and major in Philosophy.  Then he wants to go to law school.  After a while he wants to go back to get his PhD and focus on epistemology."

            "Epista what?" Lily said.

            "Epistemology.  It's the philosophical study of human knowledge and how we retain it." Zoe replied.

            "You learn something new everyday. Plus, he remarkably has time to fit in the basketball team." Lily said.

            "He sounds like a walking textbook. Any room for marriage and kids?" Grace said.

            "Somewhere in there I guess.  He is also captain of the debate team." Zoe said.

            "That's a lot for someone who isn't even old enough to vote yet." Lily said knowingly.

            "There's nothing wrong with having goals." Zoe said

            "I'm surprised he hasn't slipped in a run for the presidency in there." Grace added in.

            "Very funny." Zoe said.

            "I thought you didn't care for him.  I seem to remember that night you had to pull a double and his car was messed up or something." Grace said.

            "Ok.  I know, I was a little resentful towards him that night, but I pulled a double and it was just a bad night overall.  He apologized for ruining my night I might add.  I mean, we would always get into little petty arguments about stuff at work, but we have chemistry.  You see it all the time in the movies, the people who always have those tight arguments always end up together by the end.  That's how we are sometimes I guess."

            "Well, opposites attract. I would like to meet this guy." Lily said.  "Really.  And if your father thinks he's ok, then I will really have to meet him."

            Grace put the bread into the pan and set in it the oven.  She then went to wash her hands.

            "So, where is August today?" Zoe asked.

            "He's turning in the final copy of his manuscript for Terrence Hill.  He asked me to thank you for the photos."

            "No, tell him I said thank you." Zoe replied back.  "A lot of people don't get an opportunity like that and I will forever be grateful for that."

            Grace dried up her hands and pulled out the ring August gave her from her pocket.

            "What's that?" Lily said out of curiosity.

            "Oh, August gave it to me a few weeks ago."

            "Really?" Lily said as she moved in to observe the ring up close and personal.  "It's beautiful."

            "Thanks."

            "What was the occasion?" Zoe asked as she looked at it.

            "Nothing really.  I walked out of the bathroom and it was there on my pillow in a box.  For a second I thought he was going to propose."

            Lily silently breathed in a sigh of relief.

            "Why not get married?" Zoe said.

            "Because I'm not anywhere near ready for that big of a leap."

            "Good.  You don't want to get married too young because you don't really get the chance to experience different kinds of people." Lily said.

            "What do you mean, "experience."" Grace asked.

            "You know, meet different kinds of people – see different places and what not."

            "I can do those things with August.  Besides, I've done a lot of that in Boston.  You think he isn't good enough for me?" Grace asked.

            "I'm not saying that Grace.  I just don't think you should jump into the water without knowing how deep it is at first."

            "I'm not doing that Mom.  I would hope that you would have a little more faith in me in that matter."

            "I do Grace.  I just don't want you make any mistakes."

            "I knew it.  You've never supported us ever since you first found out about us seeing each other."

            "Grace, that's not fair and you know it."

            "What is fair?  You know, if you didn't approve you could of just came flat out and told me and then I wouldn't of had to waste your time in you trying to get to know him."

            "Ok, will you two calm down please." Zoe said.

            "Has anything you've told me, your opinion of him, been the truth." Grace asked.

            "Here is the truth – yes, I wish you would be with someone close to your age, but I really cannot control that.  And yes, I do like him.  August has been very good for you.  I think he is worthy of your time and love, but I don't want you to feel that you have to tie yourself down to him."

            "I don't feel like that Mom.  He doesn't keep me down; he does everything he can to lift me up higher than he possibly can.  No other person has ever been able to do that for me – make me feel like I could do anything I wanted to with only trying.  I think it kills you with jealousy to think that someone, besides you, could do that to me.  I'm going to leave before I say something that I may regret." Grace said as she walked towards the kitchen door and let herself out.

            Lily released a heavy sigh and looked at Zoe who just stared at her.  She noticed a slight nod in her head from left to right.

            "What?" Lily asked.

            "Do you really like him?" Zoe asked.

            "Yes, Zoe, I do."

            "Then why can't you just accept it?  This is such a stupid thing to argue over.  He could be a hell of a lot worse."

            "Zoe, it is always easier said than done."

            "It's true though – what she said about August changing her, being there, when you couldn't be."

            As Lily took in her daughters words, the dark reality hit her that Grace and Zoe were right.  She wasn't really there when all of the changes that forever altered Grace's life were going on.  She felt ashamed almost at the fact that she somehow possibly failed her daughter.  But, Grace was ok.  Grace was doing just fine in all actuality.  Lily finished chopping the vegetables in complete silence. 

            A few hours later, Grace drove up to Manning Manor.  Lily sat in the living room watching some stupid talk show just to kill the time when she heard the door open and close.  She turned around and saw Grace walk into the living room.

            "Hey." Grace said quietly.

            "Hey." Lily replied back.

            "Look, I'm sorry for exploding like that.  That was uncalled for."

            "No, I'm sorry.  As much as it hurt to admit it to myself, you were right."

            "Still, what I said was inappropriate." Grace said as she moved to the sofa and sat next to her mother.

            "No.  I think I needed to hear it from you.  I didn't want to admit to myself that I didn't see those things coming.  I was too wrapped up in everything else to notice those changes."

            "But you had so much to worry about.  All of those things were trivial compared to everything else you had to juggle."

            "I'm sorry if you felt that you couldn't come to me.  I still remember when I first found out about the Chekov book and everything.  I felt like I had missed out on something, I skipped out on those important chapters that were crucial to you.  I thought I knew you, but I really didn't, and that hurt me a bit to think that you were living under this roof, talking, walking, living, and breathing, but I really didn't know anything about you.  I knew your favorite things to eat and what you liked to listen to, but not the really important stuff, not the stuff that would somehow affect you to this day.  It hurt me to realize that he had given you something that I never could have, or at least, didn't know how to give you." Lily said all teary eyed.

            "Mom, all I ever needed from you was your love and support.  It's all I need now." Grace said.

            "I don't want you to think that I don't like August – I do, but you've got to understand that this isn't exactly what I imagined would come about five years ago."

            "I know.  He thought it best for me to come back to talk things out with you.  I'm sorry." Grace said.

            "I'm sorry too." Lily said as she hugged her daughter. 

            The door opened and Rick, Zoe, and Simon walked in the living room.

            "Is everything ok?" Rick asked.

            "Yeah, it's fine." Lily said as she and Grace separated.  Lily wiped her eyes a bit while the two began to laugh at the silliness of it all.

            Rapture.  It was quickly becoming one of her favorite words.  It was all in the way he would softly run his fingers through her hair.  The way he ran his hands slowly up her legs.  They would somehow always end up with his hands gripping hers.  He loved the contact with her, just as she did with him.  It was almost a lost art form to her – the art of love – the art of making love.  She adored how the words would slide from her tongue – lover - touch.  It fascinated her in how the consonants and vowels came together in perfect harmony, just as they would, to form something so beautiful and so simple all at once.  She would sometimes try to invent new words to describe it all, but she never could.  Theirs was a heat that could rival the Sahara. His eyes always took on a different look to her.  Grace remembered hearing her roommate Erin from Boston saying that her boyfriend, Allen, would always have "bedroom eyes."

"You know, that look that he gets in his eyes, that just says 'Come here baby.'" Erin told her laughing while trying to imitate the look.

"You look and sound like a bad Barry White impersonator." Grace said laughing.

"I'm serious though. It's a look that he gives to no one else but you.  Well, lets just hope that he isn't giving it to anyone else."

There was the blink in his eyes, the way his pale eyelashes would particularly stick out.  It reminded her of an exotic peacock that would spread its feathers out for adornment.  She would always find herself brushing her fingers on them.  She never could get used to the fact that he was the only person she had known who didn't have dark eyelashes.  It was as if he were a rare creature; and indeed, he was to her.  No one else understood her like he did.  And Erin was right. There was a particular look, a particular gleam in his eyes that took over.  Come hither it would always call to her.

She often noted that he had a libido that could rival someone her own age.  He once joked that it was because of all those years of pent up emotional stress.  They would find themselves like this quiet often.  They just couldn't get enough of each other – it was that simple.  Protection was vital, and Grace was on birth control.  

            The rain was often a catalyst for them.  Every time it rained, she would immediately think of their first night together.  The soft sounds of "Njosnavelin" would begin its melody in her head.  It was good at times, but bad when she was actually in class. 

            There was the time that they had forgotten their umbrellas when they went out for a small walk one afternoon.  The weatherman predicted a light drizzle, but their neighborhood had gotten the eighty percent chance while they were walking.  As they entered the house, both soaking wet, laughing at the absurdity of it all, he gave her those eyes.  She was weak and she knew it; she couldn't help but be any other way.  Addiction is always labeled as a bad thing, but her addiction to him gave the word a good meaning. 

            As the Saturday morning sun shone in on their faces, Grace and August watched it together underneath the crisp linen sheets of the bed. The back of her head lay on his chest as she grabbed his right hand and entwined her fingers with his.  She slightly began waving their hands around.

            "I've been doing some thinking lately."

            "About what?" Grace replied.

            "Well, I was thinking that maybe we could do some traveling in the summer."

            "Where to – you being the world traveler and all.  Recommend some places to me.  Are we talking in country or out?"

            "Anywhere."

            "Anywhere.  Where do I begin?  New Orleans maybe since it has come with your highest recommendations."

            "That's it?  Why stop there?  I was thinking maybe we could start with New Orleans and then maybe go to London.  I was thinking that we could maybe rent an old cottage in the English countryside.  It would just be you and me with no one around to bother us."   

            "So I won't have to muffle my screams of pleasure for the sake of your neighbors." Grace said smiling.

            "My dear, that's the entire point." August replied back. "I'm serious though.  It's something that I think you would love, and the fact that we can do it together makes it even better.  Traveling alone can be good sometimes, but when I was seeing those sights, I always wished that I had someone there with me to share it all with.  I have one of those sky miles cards so, we are pretty much sitting on round trip tickets to London at least."

            "I still haven't taken you to Boston.  Maybe we could go for the fall break.  I'll have to introduce you to Erin and her boyfriend Allen.  She was my roommate when I lived there.  We still e-mail each other.  She's in grad school too for chemistry."

            "Well, it won't be difficult to find something for us to chat over then.  So, what's on our roster for today?"

            "I wouldn't mind just lying here like this all day."

            "Me too." August said.

            For Grace's birthday, August took her out to a movie and a nice dinner at a cozy restaurant. His gift to her was two tickets for their summer trip.  They would get to spend three days in New Orleans and then would fly to London and would spend six days and seven nights there.  The trip was planned in early August, but to satiate the special day, he made her breakfast in bed and bought her a cd that she had been eyeing for a while. 

            As the two walked towards his door, Grace clinging to his arm, she thanked him for what seemed like the hundredth time that day for everything he had done for her. She noticed that something was off.

            "Didn't we leave the kitchen light on?" Grace asked.

            "I don't really remember.  We left in a bit of a rush." August replied as he put his key in the door.

            "Don't open it!" Grace whispered.  "What if someone broke in to the house?  I remember leaving this house with that kitchen light on." Grace added with a hint of worry in her voice.

            "Maybe the light bulb died."

            "I think we should go next door and have the police come look around."

            "Grace, don't worry." August said as he kissed her and opened the door. 

As he flicked on the light switch, a loud "SURPRISE!!!" was heard as the bright flash of a camera nearly blinded Grace.  "HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!"  Everyone was there.  Lily, Rick, Simon, Zoe, Katie, Jessie.  Her father and Tiffany were there also along with most of the employees of Booklovers – Jared and Marvin included.  There were some neighbors there also, even Karen and Henry were there.  Grace would give an early estimate of around twenty-five people there.  She even saw Erin and Allen. 

            "I can't believe you did this!" Grace said to August as she immediately hugged him for what almost seemed like forever. 

            "Aawwww." She heard a few people say.

            "Happy Birthday Grace" Zoe said as she took another picture, only this time, Grace was prepared to pose for it.  "I'm the official party photographer.  My rates are hourly, so, let's get the party started!!!!" 

            Everyone began to socialize with one another as the stereo system was being turned on.

            "So, that explains why we had to leave so quickly."

            "I had to give them plenty of time to prepare things." August said.

            "Hey Grace, Happy Birthday girl!" Marvin said as he hugged his friend's sister.  "Your man here has been planning this for weeks, at least, that's what Zoe told us."

            "I was one of the first ones he called." Zoe said with pride.

            "Thanks." Grace replied. 

It was then that "Dizzy" by The Goo Goo Dolls came on and a few people began to dance.

"Oh yeah, I'm the dj!"  Marvin shouted as he lifted his arms in triumph.

            Zoe then followed him across the living room.  "No no no no no no no no!  NO BOOTY MUSIC!" Zoe shouted loudly as she followed Marvin.

            "Damn, I was hoping we would hear "Baby Got Back." Erin said as she hugged Grace.

            "Thank you so much for being here.  How were you ever able to squeeze it in?" Grace asked.

            "I pulled a few strings in Boston.  I've got a few connections you know."

            "Hey Grace." Allen said as he hugged her.

            "Hey. It's odd that for a few moments when we were driving home I was ready to go to bed, but I guess that won't be happening any time soon."

Pete Yorn's "Undercover" came on and just about everyone was dancing or socializing.  While Marvin was having a little difficulty in keeping the stereo systems volume down, the eclectic mix that was being played received no complaints.  Grace walked around greeting all of those she knew and thanked them for attending. 

            Booklovers had catered some of the treats for everyone while two ice chests filled with beverages were brought out.  Some of the furniture was pushed back to make room for whoever wanted to dance around and what not.  It would usually be in rotation.  Some people would dance and then walk around and socialize and then go back to dancing.  August would socialize also with the different guests, mostly sticking to her family. 

            Finally the two were able to meet each other again. 

            "Would the birthday girl care to dance?" August asked.

            "I've been waiting to hear that."  Grace said as she dragged him on the makeshift dance floor.

            "I tried to invite mom and dad, but they couldn't make it.  Plus, Hanna was tied up with school."

            "That's ok.  I can't believe you invited our neighbors even."

            "Hey, they know how get down." August said laughing as "Heaven" by The Rolling Stones began to play.

            "Oh goodness, you let my dad get a hold of the stereo system.  I remember growing up and hearing this song.  It's from his favorite album."

            "I like this song thank you very much." August said as the two started dancing around.

            Smell of you baby, my senses, my senses be praised

            Smell of you baby, my senses, my senses be praised

            Kissing and running, kissing and running away

            Kissing and running, kissing and running away

            Senses be praised

            Senses be praised

            You're my saving grace, saving grace

            Nothing will harm you

            Nothing will stand in your way

            Nothing, nothing

            Nothing will stop you

            And nothing will stand in your way

            No one will harm you

            No one will stand in your way

            No one will bar you

            Nothing will stand in your way

            Nothing

            There's nothing

            As the song was in its finishing notes, Jake approached his daughter. 

"Happy Birthday Gracie" Jake said as he hugged his daughter.  As soon as he released his grip from her, he and August shook hands. "August." He acknowledged him.

            "Thanks Dad." Grace said as the song.  "Where's Tiffany?"
            "She's on the phone with our friend Phyllis.  She's watching Maddie tonight so that we could come to this little party of yours."

            "Excuse me, I have to go check up on something." August said as he walked away.  Grace was almost oblivious to it as another song was beginning to play.  She faintly recognized it as Otis Redding and in the corner of her eye she could see Jessie dragging Katie out to dance. 

            "You know, I really appreciate you making the effort." Grace said to her father.

            "Effort for what?"

            "To at least get to know him before you reach a definite conclusion.  I know you didn't really approve of me moving in so soon."

            "No father likes to admit that his daughter is capable of making her own decisions.  I guess I didn't want to believe that you are now a woman.  It still hasn't fully sunk in yet.  And I have reached my definite conclusion – Grace, he's all yours."  Jake said as Tiffany walked up to her husband. 

            "Hey you two.  Happy Birthday Grace." Tiffany said as she handed Grace a drink. 

            "Thanks.  What's this?"

            "Honey, it's your birthday, and I know you are no longer drinking cokes and such.  So, it's either some of the wine that August has stored up or you can have the margarita that I am holding in my hand here.  There's a batch in the fridge for everyone.  Your friend Erin is apparently a novice at that stuff.  When we got here, she was showing some of the employees the art of making the perfect margarita."

"It's all in the tequila she claims." Jake said  "All I know is that wine gets boring after a while. I told her she should buy stock in Margaritaville.  Jimmy Buffett would be proud."

            "Thanks." Grace said as she took the drink, wiping some of the salt that had stuck to her hands on her skirt. 

            She continued to move around, socializing with everyone, even joining in a group dance to "Loops Of Fury" by The Chemical Brothers.  She figured that it was something in Marvin's collection.  It was funny to even see Rick and Lily trying to be part of all of the action.  Every now and then she would search for August, but she could never find him.  Maybe he was making sure that everything was somehow staying in order around the house.  She observed Zoe being pulled out to dance with Jared.  His dance moves weren't the greatest, but to be flat out honest, Zoe was trying hard not to laugh at his inability to move in rhythm with the music.  Grace didn't know if he was trying to impress her or scare the other dancers out of the way with his flailing arms gyrating as if he were suffering from a seizure. 

            Erin bumped into Grace's back unknowingly and turned around to hug her friend. 

            "Oh, sorry Grace.  I see you've failed to resist the margarita stash." Erin said as she took a sip from Grace's cup.

            "How stupid of me to think that you wouldn't try to get everyone over here buzzing." Grace replied.

            "Proud to know that I'm doing my job." Erin said as she began laughing.  "You have to come back to Boston to visit us soon.  Boston just isn't the same without you."

            "Yeah, I'm sure.  Where are you guys staying?"

            "A hotel in Chicago. I'm serious though.  The professors miss your biting criticism and wit.  I have tried to make up for it, but I have failed beautifully."  Erin said as she wrapped her arm around Grace. 

            "She's had two margaritas already." Allen warned Grace.

            "You alkie." Grace joked at her friend.

            "I'm not drunk – I'm just buzzing a little.  I swear - I see all three of you Grace.  I'm joking!"

            "Ok, but just a warning.  If you puke, you clean it up." Grace said a new song began on the stereo.

            "Yes!  Remind me to thank the dj."  Erin said as she began to move around a little.

            "This isn't 'Baby Got Back.'" Allen replied.

            "I know.  It's Barry White."  Erin said as "Can't Get Enough Of Your Love Baby" began to play.

            Soon enough, Erin was singing along with her left arm draped around Grace.  Everyone couldn't help but follow suit and began to sing along.  Even Zoe, who didn't completely know all of the words sang along to the parts she knew. 

            After a few more songs had played, August walked out of the kitchen holding a cake filled with 23 candles.  Everyone began to sing "Happy Birthday."  Grace didn't know whether to be embarrassed at all of the attention that was focusing in on her, or to just take in the moment as one she would always remember.  Her task at blowing out the candles was aided by August for the last few. He placed his hands on her shoulders and lightly squeezed them as everyone else cheered her on.

            I had a dream – strange it may seem

            It was my perfect day

            Open my eyes

            I realize

            It is my perfect day

            Hope you never grow old

            Hope you never grow old

            Grace was having a small conversation with a Booklovers employee who was attending college in Chicago part time as she recognized the Cranberries song.  She glanced across the room and saw August chatting with one of their neighbors.  When he noticed her, he gave her a knowing smile while still staying in the conversation. 

              The party continued on for a few more hours, but eventually, the guests began to tire out.  At around twelve in the morning, people were beginning to leave.  Rick and Lily left at twelve thirty while Jake and Tiffany left a few minutes afterward.  Zoe left a while later and promised to come by the next day to help clean up along with Katie and Jessie.  Erin and Allen left also promising to come by the next day to help clean up.

            Finally, at around two thirty in the morning, the final guests left.  While the house wasn't that big of a mess, it still would need a little tidying up in the morning. 

            "Care for one more dance?" August said as he put a cd into the player.

            "Why not?  My feet are numb with all of the dancing I've done.  I think I danced more in one night than I did in my entire life. I was saving the last dance for you." Grace said.

            It was then that "Njosnavelin" began.  Grace immediately smiled as August pulled her close to him. 

            "I couldn't have the party end without dancing to this particular song." August said.

            "Thank you for the party, the tickets, everything."

            "Your welcome."

            "I'll hand it to you, I nearly jumped out of my skin there for a second."

            "I'm glad that you had a good day.  You deserve it."

            For a few moments they were silent as the two swayed to the music.  He would swear that he could hear her humming along with the song.  He imagined her eyes tired and closed now as her head rested on his shoulder.  She told him once that tequila made her tired, considering what Erin concocted in the kitchen. 

            "I had so much fun." Grace said tiredly.  "I'm just kind of tired, that's all."

            He could feel her slipping into sleep even though she was still dancing around.    He smiled at the thought and in he could only wish her a good night.