Authors Note: This work of fiction is the sequel to 'Without Regret' and
is intended to entertain the reader. I hope the hard chore 'M*A*S*H' and
'Pride & Prejudice' fans will forgive the liberties I have taken with the
use of the characters. This is rated R, please do not read if you are under
18. Thank you.
The Winchesters of Boston
Chapter I
Friday, November 27th, 1953
The rush of the post-thanksgiving feast and, having the twins arrive was soon over. Most of the Bennet girl's extended family had taken their leave and Charles asked Jane's permission to stay until Elizabeth and the children were able to take the trip back to Boston. She was more than happy to have him as a house guest. Charles called his parents to inform them of the arrival of their grandchildren and also that Elizabeth had accepted his offer of marriage. He explained that he would be staying with the Bennet girls for a few weeks and asked if one of the staff could be spared to bring him his medical bag and some changes of clothes. Charles was surprised to find his parents knocking on the Bennet door early the next morning.
"Surprise" exclaimed his parents at they shook the snow off their coats and hugged Charles.
"Mother...Father...What on earth are you doing here" questioned a very confused Charles. His parents were not the kind of people to embark on a leisurely drive alone, just after a snowstorm and into the deep untamed wild of Massachusetts.
"We had to come at once to meet the infamous Elizabeth," his father said with a wink "Be a good boy Charlie and go get the suitcases from the car."
"Father," Charles exclaimed in surprise and horror. He had not been called Charlie since he was in short pants. Jane who was helping the elder Winchesters off with their coats smothered a giggle at the thought of the proper button-downed Charles ever being called Charlie.
"Ah-hem," coughed Charles mother, looking pointedly at him.
"I am sorry Mother. This is Jane Bennet, Elizabeth's older sister. Jane this is my mother Anne and my father Emerson."
"How do you do Mr. and Mrs. Winchester, it's a pleasure to meet you both," Jane said politely, give them a little curtsey as she slightly buckled under the weight of their winter coats. "My sister is still sleeping but the twins are awake if you would like to see them," she suggested shyly.
"Capitol idea my dear girl," exclaimed Emerson, taking the coats from Jane and handing them to Charles.
"Oh I cannot wait to see my grandchildren," gushed Anne with eager anticipation, clapping her hands in delight.
Jane showed the Winchesters through her small house to the back bedroom that had been converted into a nursery. Both babies were cuddled up together in the single crib one wrapped in a blue blanket, the other in pink. The glowing grandparents peered with anxious joy over the crib railing.
"Oh, Emerson...it's like looking back in time," whispered Anne taking her husbands hand. "I knew they would look like Charles but I did expect to see Honoria as well."
"Well my love, I think we must see Elizabeth with our own eyes before we make the distinction as to whom the children look like the most." He whispered back to his wife, putting his arm around her shoulders and giving a loving squeeze.
"Hello children, I am your grandmamma," cooed Anne, picking up the pink bundle.
"I'm your grandpapa! Oh what a strong little man, I can't wait to see how he handles a golf club Annie," chuckled Emerson as he picked up the squirming blue bundle.
--
"Elizabeth, I would like to introduce you to my parents. This is my father Emerson and my mother Anne." Charles said gallantly as he helped Elizabeth sit in the easy chair facing his parents on the sofa.
"How do you do, Mr. and Mrs. Winchester," Elizabeth said politely. She knew that she was blushing and felt very out of sorts to be meeting Charles parents in such an odd manner. She never dreamed that she would ever meet her fiancées parents in her bathrobe the morning after having given birth out of wedlock.
"Oh, please call me Anne dear. I'm sorry to show up on your door unannounced, but we just knew we had to come at once," said Anne smiling graciously at Elizabeth ignoring her state of undress.
"Yes, we heard all about you from Charles and had to put a face with such a splendid love story," added Emerson with a wink to his son. "When will you be having the wedding children?"
"We have not yet had a chance to discuss that father," Charles said solemnly reaching for Elizabeth's hand.
"I think we..." started Elizabeth.
"I think they should be married as soon as possible," interrupted Anne as she turned to her husband.
"Mother, I." Charles tired to interject but was talked over by his father.
"I quite agree my dear. I believe we can call Father O'Riley and have the church ready before Christmas. Oh, are you Catholic Elizabeth," asked Emerson.
"Yes, I."
"Excellent! Oh I must see if my dress can be altered to fit you my dear," gushed Anne, "I know it might not be appropriate for you to wear white, but I am certain that no one will say anything about that. Oh! The happiest day of my life was when I became Mrs. Charles Emerson Winchester, II" without pausing for breath she continued, "until of course the children came, but oh darling, to be a bride, and I do wish we could wait so that you could be a June bride, but I suppose these things do not take precedence anymore with these modern times. Oh! And Honoria must be a bridesmaid, as well as your darling sister Jane," she said with a smile and nod towards Jane.
Elizabeth and Jane just stared, not certain what to say in response. Charles just winched at his mother's lack of tact and hoped it would not get any worse.
"It's settled then! Well, Charles, we must be off to tell your sister the good news and to make preparations for the nursery," said Emerson standing and helping Anne to her feet.
"Father, I . . ."
"Oh! And you must all come live with us is Boston! Do be sure to bring your sister as well Elizabeth, there is plenty of room at Pemberly for everyone," exclaimed Anne.
"Darling, we should tell them our good news," said Emerson helping Anne on with her coat.
"Yes, oh, it is the most exciting thing Charles! Father and I have decided to give you the big house in Boston and retire to the villa in the north of England. We will leave as soon you and Elizabeth are properly settled," Anne said giving Elizabeth a warm hug and kissing her cheek. She turned to Jane and repeated the hug and kiss saying "Oh what a charming girl, I shall find a husband for you as well!"
Emerson gave both girls a stout hug and clapped Charles on the back, "Well son, its good to see you have found love and are finally ready to settle down!"
As the Winchesters walked out of the house towards their car Charles could hear his mother saying "Oh! Isn't young Mr. Bingly returning from his business trip soon, we should invite him to dinner one night to introduce him to dear Jane." his father shut the car door bringing a welcome silence to Charles ears. He watched his parents drive away and waved from the door, turning back to the girls he was about to apologize for his parents when they both burst out laughing.
Jane knelt in front of Lizzy and both girls wrapped their arms around each other and laughed until tears were running down their cheeks.
"Oh Lizzy," sobbed Jane over their giggles.
"I know Jane.I miss mother too," cried Lizzy into her sister's shoulder as both girls continued to laugh and cry at the same time.
--
Elizabeth and Charles spoke at length about the oddities their families. Elizabeth told Charles that she was delighted to let his mother handle the details of their wedding. "As long as I have the choice of the groom my love, all other details are secondary," she said with a laugh. "Although, I do wish to be reacquainted with all our old friends from the 4077. Darling, do you think it would be possible to have Colonel Potter walk me down the isle or even to have Father Mulcahy marry us?"
"I am certain that once the news reaches our friends from the 4077 that you are alive, they will not doubt make haste to see us married my dear." Charles said kissing his lovely bride-to-be.
Chapter II
Saturday, December 19th, 1953
Charles stood at the front of the church and tried to not look nervous as his eyes scanned the crowd of smiling faces. His parent's idea of a small wedding was to invite only their closest family and dearest friends; this was about 200 hundred people not including the Bennets small extended family and their few friends from the 4077 who were able to make the trip on such short notice.
"Charles, you look great. When Peg and I got married I was so nervous I sweated through my shirt and into my tux," whispered B.J. with a small chuckle.
"Hey, I've got the keys to the car in my pocket if you still wanted to make a quick get away Charles," Hawkeye whispered with a wink.
"And leave you here to comfort my bride! Nice try Pierce," Charles said relaxing a little and enjoying the verbal sword play with his old adversary.
"Boys.it's time," said Father Mulcahy softly to the trio as the music started and the little door in the back of the church opened. The men quickly came to attention and watched with eager interest as the bridal party approached.
Honoria entered first, a glowing smile and slight blush upon her face as she walked gracefully down the isle and took her place to the far left of the alter. Jane followed shortly behind her with soft tears of joy in her eyes, she stood next to Honoria. Little Erin Hunnicutt was sprinkling flower petals as she walked, smiling and waving to all the people who gave soft gasps of 'how adorable' and indulgent smiles to the small child. When she reached the font of the church Erin was quickly and quietly pulled into the peau next to her mother.
The music swelled loudly, the church came to its feet, and Charles saw his bride, a vision of beauty in white on Sherman Potters arm. Elizabeth walked with regal slowness towards him and Charles felt as thought his feet were no longer touching the floor. Charles accepted Elizabeth's had from the Colonel and they turned together to face the alter as Father Mulcahy began to read the marriage rites.
Charles and Elizabeth knelt before the alter and soon behind them Charles could hear soft smothered laughter. He wondered if perhaps Erin was doing something to amuse the crowd and turned his head to glance behind him. He saw his father was red-faced from suppressing his laughter and his mother was blotting her eyes with her handkerchief. Next to him he saw an equally confused B.J. and a guilty looking Pierce. Elizabeth remained the picture of serenity through out all of this, but Charles did notice a little smile tugging at the corners of her mouth.
The rest of the ceremony continued in a blur for Charles, soon he heard the good Father telling him that he could kiss his bride. He carefully lifted her veil and, Elizabeth gave him a smile that lit up her whole face, he felt the arms of love wrap around him as he leaned over and kissed his bride. The happy couple turned and walked down the isle as man and wife to the applause, laughter and tears of their guests.
For Charles, the receiving line was long and the pictures felt as though days had passed since he said I do. It was not until the photographer asked for their last photo that they kneel in front of the alter again so he could get a good shot of his shoes that Charles realized where the laughter had come from.
"What is wrong with my shoes," Charles asked confused.
"I asked Hawkeye to write something on them for me," Elizabeth whispered to her husband giving him an impish smile after the photo was taken.
"What did he write?"
"I wrote 'HE on the bottom of your left shoe, and 'LP' on the right," said Hawkeye as walked passed the couple and gallantly assisted Jane into one of the cars that were waiting to take the bridal party to the reception.
Charles sat next to Elizabeth in the back of the bridal party car. He was still confused, 'H-E-L-P' he thought for a moment and then found himself laughing with his new bride at her good joke as they drove away.
--
"Charlie! I think your wife is going to make your life very interesting," slurred Emerson towards the end of the evening. "She is a good match for you son, I always feared you would marry some shallow socialite snob that would only love you for your money and not see the good man you are." Charles knew that his father had imbibed more than his normal amount of alcohol and that while his words were true he would not normally be speaking them to Charles quite so loudly or in the middle of the men's room.
"You know when I first met Lizzy, I knew she was special," announced an equally intoxicated Sherman Potter to Emerson. The two gentlemen walked out of the mens room holding each other up and continuing their conversation through the rest of the reception hall. "I tell you Em, she had that boy of your smitten from the start."
"Well Sherm, I'd be willing to bet that Charlie wasn't the only one who fell for her," laughed Emerson nodding his head towards the dance floor where the best man was dancing with the bride. Charles had followed the two men to their seats, when he was certain they were comfortably settled, he turned his attention back to the rest of the party. He watched Pierce dancing with his Elizabeth and thought that while Hawkeye may have physical grace and make a pretty picture with his bride, he did not bring the sparkle to Elizabeths eyes the way that Charles did.
B.J. walked up next to Charles, he had a sleeping Erin in his arms and spoke softly, "Charles, you might want to go rescue your bride and send Hawkeye over to Margaret, she's looking lonely."
"B.J. I want to thank you for making this trip to be at our wedding," Charles said gently, he tenderly touched the top of the sleeping childs head. "You have been a good friend and I want you to know that I never truly appreciated the sacrifices that you made in Korea until I held my own children in my arms."
"Each day is a gift Charles, don't waste a moment of it."
"Indeed. Have a safe trip home B.J."
B.J. gave Charles a wink and a smile as he walked towards the door where Peg stood with their coats in her arms. Charles watched them as Peg gently dressed the sleeping child and B.J. helped her into her coat as well. It was a touching moment for Charles, and he knew that his life would never be empty or shallow, as long as he had Elizabeth by his side.
Chapter III
Charles parents departed for England shortly after New Years day, they sent Honoria and Jane on a grand tour of Europe together leaving Elizabeth, Charles and the twins alone in the big house.
The new Winchesters of Boston settled into family life, they decided to forgo a honeymoon and chose to spend the time at their house enjoying time alone with their children and each other. Charles soon found that his wifes enthusiasm for the marriage bed was beyond his wildest expectations. After a few weeks of enjoying his nubile young wife, Charles was almost relieved to return to work, almost. He had recently been promoted to the head of thoracic surgery at Boston General Hospital and was eager to back in the swing of things.
Elizabeth found the demands of being Mrs. Charles Emerson Winchester the III was quite a bit more than she had bargained for. She was more than contented to let the housekeeper Mrs. Reynolds handle the day-to-day management of the big house, and she had an excellent nanny to assist her with the twins, but it was all of the evening social functions and almost daily gatherings of the wives of the Boston scene that she found over- whelming. After about a month of running herself ragged Elizabeth decided that enough was enough. She realized that she did not need to be seen every day and night by high society, that the clique was really happy enough to have a monetary donation and see the Winchester name on the RSVP list, but that it didn't matter if they showed up or not. Armed with this knowledge she was able to devote more time to her family, her music and her study to become a doctor.
--
Elizabeth would often come to take Charles to lunch and many times she would just drop by to say hello for no reason at all. She enjoyed meeting the staff and would sit in the back of lectures, taking notes and doing research on her own. Charles encouraged his wife in all of this, knowing of her thirst for knowledge he agreed with her that she should finish her education. Elizabeth wanted to wait until the children were older before returning to school but auditing lectures and observing surgeries were an excellent way for her to keep her skills sharp without distracting too much from her young family.
Mrs. Winchester was a regular visitor to Doctor Winchesters office. His secretary Claire was pleased to see so much love between the couple. She had worked with Dr. Winchester for several years and noticed the change in him after his return from the war. It was clear to see that having Elizabeth as his wife had done far more than give him an heir. His manners were improved, he was more congenial to his staff, as a whole more relaxed and when his wife visited him he tended walked about the rest of the day with a happy smile on his face.
One fine spring day as Claire returned for her lunch break, she noticed the door to the doctors office was ajar. She was about to close it when she heard a noise coming from the inside. She found herself peeking through the door way and saw Dr. Winchester standing in front of his desk with his back to the door. She could see a womans shapely legs in high heels between his feet. She watched with shock as the woman's shoes were kicked off and the feet placed themselves on the outside of the doctors. Claire turned away in numb shock and horror. Not knowing what to do she sat at her desk and began to fidget with the buttons on the front of her blouse.
Inside the doctors office Elizabeth had just kicked off her shoes, "I wanted to surprise you for lunch Doctor Winchester," she said coyly knowing how much it turned her husband on to hear her use his title. She spread her legs and stood with one foot on either side of his. "I am most happily surprised Mrs. Winchester," he said quietly, kissing her ears, neck and lips as he slid his hands up her thighs under her skirt. He hooked his thumbs under the waist band of her panties and garters, giving a quick yank she was free of her undergarments. Elizabeth threw her arms around Charles neck, with nimble fingers he freed himself and lifted his lovely wife onto his desk. He thrust himself inside her wetness and she exclaimed, "Oh, doctor!"
Claire heard a woman's lusty voice exclaim "Oh, doctor" from the room behind her. She felt her face grow scarlet and found herself again peering through the doctor's door. She almost screamed when she saw the woman had her legs around the doctor's waist and that his pants were around his ankles. She was glad that he had his long white lab coat on to shield her from seeing more of him and the woman he was so vulgarly taking his pleasure in on his desk. Claire turned and bolted from the office, she ran to the ladies room and began to splash cold water on her face. She was embarrassed to have witnessed such a seen and angry with the doctor for being unfaithful to his wife.
After a few minutes Claire collected herself enough to return to the office, she found his office door wide open. She stepped inside prepared to berate the doctor and his mistress but she found the room empty. She noticed that the woman had left her garter with the stocking still attached to them under his desk. She was staring intently at them when she heard someone cough behind her. Claire jumped and screamed, she turned to see an equally startled Mrs. Winchester.
"Oh my! Oh Claire, I am sorry if I frightened you," apologized Elizabeth with her hand on her chest trying to calm the beating of her heart.
"Oh.Oh.Mrs. Winchester." stammered a frightened and confused Claire. "I.I.do not know where the doctor is, I have just returned from lunch," she lied badly.
"It's alright Claire, I was just here and I left something in his office," Elizabeth said with a slight blush to her checks wondering if Claire had witnessed anything.
"You.You were just here," Claire asked, her face going from red to white to pink from her anger, shock and embarrassment.
"Yes.I - uhm.surprised.Dr. Winchester and he.had to leave to leave right away for a luncheon meeting," Elizabeth said disjointedly, feeling rather embarrassed that the older woman had most likely noticed her discarded stockings under Charles desk and lord only knows what conclusions she was drawing.
"Oh!" Claire was still startled but noticed that Mrs. Winchesters shoes looked familiar and that she was not wearing stockings. Claire blushed, realizing what had happened she was no longer angry with the doctor, but feeling rather like a peeping-tom for invading their privacy.
"Claire, would you mind getting me a glass of water," Elizabeth asked politely. The older woman left and Elizabeth quickly put back on her stockings. With an amused grin to herself Elizabeth wondered about the possibilities of other such surprises for her husband.
Chapter IV
Soon June was upon the newlyweds and Charles found that not only was his wife was an excellent golfer, she did indeed look stunning in her short golf skirts. Elizabeth had talked Charles into walking the green with her and giving him a knowing wink, she tipped the caddy and told him to meet them on the 15th hole with the golf cart. Alone with his wife in the middle the 3rd hole Charles wondered what she had planned for him. Elizabeth was lining up her put when she made a disgusted sound.
"What's the matter my love," Charles asked, admiring his wifes lovely form from a few feet away.
"I'm having trouble with this shot. perhaps I am not getting my shoulders and hips to line up," she said looking over her shoulder, giving Charles a come hither look.
"Allow me to assist you," he said gallantly walking over and straightening his wifes shoulders and hips.
"Oh dear," pouted Elizabeth. She leaned back against her husband and widened her stance so that one foot was on either side of his, "I think that I've forgotten something."
"And what might that be my sweet," Charles said as he caressed her hips enjoying having her lovely round bottom pressed up against him. As she leaned further back against him, he leaned forward and kissed her collarbone. Elizabeth whispered breathlessly into his ear, caressing her lips against his ear lobe in the way she knew inflamed him, ". . . underwear. . ."
The affect that one word had on Charles was inspiring to Elizabeth. He smiled at his wife and she suddenly bent over at the waist, "Oh, how careless, my shoe is untied," she said bracing her hands on the grass. Charles, with three quick movements and a thrust, found himself inside of her. He was not able to get more than five or six delicious strokes when Elizabeth suddenly stood up and slid away from him. "Darling, we have many more holes to play before the game is through," she said primly straitening her skirt.
They played through the rest of the fairway with Elizabeth finding something or other wrong with her shot, and Charles eagerly assisting her with correcting her stance. By the time they reached the 14th hole Charles found himself nearly salivating with anticipation. Elizabeth stood to take her shot, Charles was disappointed that she did not ask for help this time. With a resounding whack, she knocked the ball into the small woods next to the green.
"Oh dear me, what have I done now," Elizabeth said with mock shock. Charles smiled at his wife as she slowly sauntered towards him, "Now I suppose I shall have to help you look for your ball Elizabeth." He said taking her hand and walking carefully into the trees. Elizabeth, her back against a tree and leg up on a fallen log next to it, pulled her husband to her. He eagerly kissed her lips, his hands slid up her naked thighs lifting her skirt he slipped inside of her. Elizabeth moaned in pleasure, her eyes closed, head thrown back, clutching her arms tightly around Charles. He slowly ground himself into her, he could feel her wetness soaking him and as she shook with her orgasm, he felt himself reach his peak. After claiming his long sought prize, Charles said with a silly grin on his face, "I never realized how exhilarating golf can be!"
--
Time passed quickly for Charles and Elizabeth, soon their children were rolling over, babbling for mama, and dada and in general growing larger by the moment. Elizabeth was going over her personal calendar one afternoon when she noticed something was conspicuously missing from her careful notes. She counted back the previous two months and with a little smile to herself, she picked up the phone and made an appointment.
--
Elizabeth walked into Charles office positively glowing with happiness, "Good morning Claire," she said cheerfully. "How does the doctors schedule look for March?"
"He has a three day conference in the middle of March in Florida, Mrs. Winchester," Clair said looking ahead in the calendar.
"I'm afraid that I'm going to have to ask you clear the doctors schedule for all of March, possibly some of April as well," Elizabeth said breathlessly, she could hardly contain her joy.
Claire noticed that Mrs. Winchester seemed flushed. "Certainly ma'am, I can put that request into the doctor but he would have to approve it himself before I cancel a conference."
"I am certain that he will approve this," Elizabeth said with a wink to the older woman. "Is he in a meeting right now?"
"Yes, he should be just finishing up with Dr. Chandler, I expect him back at any moment," Claire said slightly confused at how strange Mrs. Winchester was behaving. As if on queue, Charles walked into the office with his face in his notes, speaking distractedly to his secretary.
"Claire I'm going to need you to pull the research notes on these patients. . . . Oh! Elizabeth, What a pleasant surprise! What brings you here at this time of the day," Charles asked, setting down a stack of manila folders on Claire's desk and kissing his wife on the cheek.
"I was just blocking a little time on your calendar my dear. I hope you don't mind," Elizabeth said with a bright smile, taking his hand and walking into his office, she shut the door behind them and turned to her husband, "I hope now that we are alone I will get more than just a little peck on the check?"
Charles sat on the chair behind his desk, pulled Elizabeth into his lap, kissing her lips and wrapping his arms around her, ". . . is that better Mrs. Winchester," he asked. He was always surprised to find how aroused he became from just his wifes kisses, and wondered for the thousandth time what good thing he had done to cause the universe to give him such a gift as his Elizabeth.
"Much," she said returning his embrace and resting her head on his shoulder.
"To what do I owe this surprise visit my lovely wife," he asked running his hands down her shapely legs.
"Well I wanted to let you know that Bingly and Jane want to see 'Othello' with us this weekend, and that we'll need to buy another crib for the nursery," Elizabeth said quickly toying with the name tag on his lab coat as she spoke.
"Wonderful, I haven't seen them in weeks.and.what do we need to buy," Charles asked not certain he had heard her correctly.
"Another crib my dear. Oh, and I've asked Claire to cancel your trip in March." Elizabeth said calmly, straightening his tie and not looking into his eyes. Charles gently reached down with his finger and tipped her chin up so she would look into his eyes. "Are you telling me that we're having another baby?" Elizabeth shyly nodded, she bit her lower lip in anticipation of Charles reaction. Charles laughed out loud, hugged Elizabeth closer. "Darling, you should know by now that I adore all of your surprises," he whispered to his wife covering her face with kisses between words.
Charles was a most attentive husband throughout all of Elizabeths confinement. He rubbed her back and feet when they were sore, brought her extra pillows when she wanted to sit up and read in bed and was in general just plain wonderful. Charles found that he loved to cuddle his wife and the feeling of his child growing inside of her swelling belly pleased him far more than he could have ever imagined.
The Winchester family was joined by Richard Fitzwilliam on March 17th, 1955, by Victoria Jane on November 30th, 1957, by Edward James on February 14th, 1959, by Martin Joseph on October 1st, 1961 and by Ophelia Honoria on August 30th, 1963.
The Winchesters of Boston
Chapter I
Friday, November 27th, 1953
The rush of the post-thanksgiving feast and, having the twins arrive was soon over. Most of the Bennet girl's extended family had taken their leave and Charles asked Jane's permission to stay until Elizabeth and the children were able to take the trip back to Boston. She was more than happy to have him as a house guest. Charles called his parents to inform them of the arrival of their grandchildren and also that Elizabeth had accepted his offer of marriage. He explained that he would be staying with the Bennet girls for a few weeks and asked if one of the staff could be spared to bring him his medical bag and some changes of clothes. Charles was surprised to find his parents knocking on the Bennet door early the next morning.
"Surprise" exclaimed his parents at they shook the snow off their coats and hugged Charles.
"Mother...Father...What on earth are you doing here" questioned a very confused Charles. His parents were not the kind of people to embark on a leisurely drive alone, just after a snowstorm and into the deep untamed wild of Massachusetts.
"We had to come at once to meet the infamous Elizabeth," his father said with a wink "Be a good boy Charlie and go get the suitcases from the car."
"Father," Charles exclaimed in surprise and horror. He had not been called Charlie since he was in short pants. Jane who was helping the elder Winchesters off with their coats smothered a giggle at the thought of the proper button-downed Charles ever being called Charlie.
"Ah-hem," coughed Charles mother, looking pointedly at him.
"I am sorry Mother. This is Jane Bennet, Elizabeth's older sister. Jane this is my mother Anne and my father Emerson."
"How do you do Mr. and Mrs. Winchester, it's a pleasure to meet you both," Jane said politely, give them a little curtsey as she slightly buckled under the weight of their winter coats. "My sister is still sleeping but the twins are awake if you would like to see them," she suggested shyly.
"Capitol idea my dear girl," exclaimed Emerson, taking the coats from Jane and handing them to Charles.
"Oh I cannot wait to see my grandchildren," gushed Anne with eager anticipation, clapping her hands in delight.
Jane showed the Winchesters through her small house to the back bedroom that had been converted into a nursery. Both babies were cuddled up together in the single crib one wrapped in a blue blanket, the other in pink. The glowing grandparents peered with anxious joy over the crib railing.
"Oh, Emerson...it's like looking back in time," whispered Anne taking her husbands hand. "I knew they would look like Charles but I did expect to see Honoria as well."
"Well my love, I think we must see Elizabeth with our own eyes before we make the distinction as to whom the children look like the most." He whispered back to his wife, putting his arm around her shoulders and giving a loving squeeze.
"Hello children, I am your grandmamma," cooed Anne, picking up the pink bundle.
"I'm your grandpapa! Oh what a strong little man, I can't wait to see how he handles a golf club Annie," chuckled Emerson as he picked up the squirming blue bundle.
--
"Elizabeth, I would like to introduce you to my parents. This is my father Emerson and my mother Anne." Charles said gallantly as he helped Elizabeth sit in the easy chair facing his parents on the sofa.
"How do you do, Mr. and Mrs. Winchester," Elizabeth said politely. She knew that she was blushing and felt very out of sorts to be meeting Charles parents in such an odd manner. She never dreamed that she would ever meet her fiancées parents in her bathrobe the morning after having given birth out of wedlock.
"Oh, please call me Anne dear. I'm sorry to show up on your door unannounced, but we just knew we had to come at once," said Anne smiling graciously at Elizabeth ignoring her state of undress.
"Yes, we heard all about you from Charles and had to put a face with such a splendid love story," added Emerson with a wink to his son. "When will you be having the wedding children?"
"We have not yet had a chance to discuss that father," Charles said solemnly reaching for Elizabeth's hand.
"I think we..." started Elizabeth.
"I think they should be married as soon as possible," interrupted Anne as she turned to her husband.
"Mother, I." Charles tired to interject but was talked over by his father.
"I quite agree my dear. I believe we can call Father O'Riley and have the church ready before Christmas. Oh, are you Catholic Elizabeth," asked Emerson.
"Yes, I."
"Excellent! Oh I must see if my dress can be altered to fit you my dear," gushed Anne, "I know it might not be appropriate for you to wear white, but I am certain that no one will say anything about that. Oh! The happiest day of my life was when I became Mrs. Charles Emerson Winchester, II" without pausing for breath she continued, "until of course the children came, but oh darling, to be a bride, and I do wish we could wait so that you could be a June bride, but I suppose these things do not take precedence anymore with these modern times. Oh! And Honoria must be a bridesmaid, as well as your darling sister Jane," she said with a smile and nod towards Jane.
Elizabeth and Jane just stared, not certain what to say in response. Charles just winched at his mother's lack of tact and hoped it would not get any worse.
"It's settled then! Well, Charles, we must be off to tell your sister the good news and to make preparations for the nursery," said Emerson standing and helping Anne to her feet.
"Father, I . . ."
"Oh! And you must all come live with us is Boston! Do be sure to bring your sister as well Elizabeth, there is plenty of room at Pemberly for everyone," exclaimed Anne.
"Darling, we should tell them our good news," said Emerson helping Anne on with her coat.
"Yes, oh, it is the most exciting thing Charles! Father and I have decided to give you the big house in Boston and retire to the villa in the north of England. We will leave as soon you and Elizabeth are properly settled," Anne said giving Elizabeth a warm hug and kissing her cheek. She turned to Jane and repeated the hug and kiss saying "Oh what a charming girl, I shall find a husband for you as well!"
Emerson gave both girls a stout hug and clapped Charles on the back, "Well son, its good to see you have found love and are finally ready to settle down!"
As the Winchesters walked out of the house towards their car Charles could hear his mother saying "Oh! Isn't young Mr. Bingly returning from his business trip soon, we should invite him to dinner one night to introduce him to dear Jane." his father shut the car door bringing a welcome silence to Charles ears. He watched his parents drive away and waved from the door, turning back to the girls he was about to apologize for his parents when they both burst out laughing.
Jane knelt in front of Lizzy and both girls wrapped their arms around each other and laughed until tears were running down their cheeks.
"Oh Lizzy," sobbed Jane over their giggles.
"I know Jane.I miss mother too," cried Lizzy into her sister's shoulder as both girls continued to laugh and cry at the same time.
--
Elizabeth and Charles spoke at length about the oddities their families. Elizabeth told Charles that she was delighted to let his mother handle the details of their wedding. "As long as I have the choice of the groom my love, all other details are secondary," she said with a laugh. "Although, I do wish to be reacquainted with all our old friends from the 4077. Darling, do you think it would be possible to have Colonel Potter walk me down the isle or even to have Father Mulcahy marry us?"
"I am certain that once the news reaches our friends from the 4077 that you are alive, they will not doubt make haste to see us married my dear." Charles said kissing his lovely bride-to-be.
Chapter II
Saturday, December 19th, 1953
Charles stood at the front of the church and tried to not look nervous as his eyes scanned the crowd of smiling faces. His parent's idea of a small wedding was to invite only their closest family and dearest friends; this was about 200 hundred people not including the Bennets small extended family and their few friends from the 4077 who were able to make the trip on such short notice.
"Charles, you look great. When Peg and I got married I was so nervous I sweated through my shirt and into my tux," whispered B.J. with a small chuckle.
"Hey, I've got the keys to the car in my pocket if you still wanted to make a quick get away Charles," Hawkeye whispered with a wink.
"And leave you here to comfort my bride! Nice try Pierce," Charles said relaxing a little and enjoying the verbal sword play with his old adversary.
"Boys.it's time," said Father Mulcahy softly to the trio as the music started and the little door in the back of the church opened. The men quickly came to attention and watched with eager interest as the bridal party approached.
Honoria entered first, a glowing smile and slight blush upon her face as she walked gracefully down the isle and took her place to the far left of the alter. Jane followed shortly behind her with soft tears of joy in her eyes, she stood next to Honoria. Little Erin Hunnicutt was sprinkling flower petals as she walked, smiling and waving to all the people who gave soft gasps of 'how adorable' and indulgent smiles to the small child. When she reached the font of the church Erin was quickly and quietly pulled into the peau next to her mother.
The music swelled loudly, the church came to its feet, and Charles saw his bride, a vision of beauty in white on Sherman Potters arm. Elizabeth walked with regal slowness towards him and Charles felt as thought his feet were no longer touching the floor. Charles accepted Elizabeth's had from the Colonel and they turned together to face the alter as Father Mulcahy began to read the marriage rites.
Charles and Elizabeth knelt before the alter and soon behind them Charles could hear soft smothered laughter. He wondered if perhaps Erin was doing something to amuse the crowd and turned his head to glance behind him. He saw his father was red-faced from suppressing his laughter and his mother was blotting her eyes with her handkerchief. Next to him he saw an equally confused B.J. and a guilty looking Pierce. Elizabeth remained the picture of serenity through out all of this, but Charles did notice a little smile tugging at the corners of her mouth.
The rest of the ceremony continued in a blur for Charles, soon he heard the good Father telling him that he could kiss his bride. He carefully lifted her veil and, Elizabeth gave him a smile that lit up her whole face, he felt the arms of love wrap around him as he leaned over and kissed his bride. The happy couple turned and walked down the isle as man and wife to the applause, laughter and tears of their guests.
For Charles, the receiving line was long and the pictures felt as though days had passed since he said I do. It was not until the photographer asked for their last photo that they kneel in front of the alter again so he could get a good shot of his shoes that Charles realized where the laughter had come from.
"What is wrong with my shoes," Charles asked confused.
"I asked Hawkeye to write something on them for me," Elizabeth whispered to her husband giving him an impish smile after the photo was taken.
"What did he write?"
"I wrote 'HE on the bottom of your left shoe, and 'LP' on the right," said Hawkeye as walked passed the couple and gallantly assisted Jane into one of the cars that were waiting to take the bridal party to the reception.
Charles sat next to Elizabeth in the back of the bridal party car. He was still confused, 'H-E-L-P' he thought for a moment and then found himself laughing with his new bride at her good joke as they drove away.
--
"Charlie! I think your wife is going to make your life very interesting," slurred Emerson towards the end of the evening. "She is a good match for you son, I always feared you would marry some shallow socialite snob that would only love you for your money and not see the good man you are." Charles knew that his father had imbibed more than his normal amount of alcohol and that while his words were true he would not normally be speaking them to Charles quite so loudly or in the middle of the men's room.
"You know when I first met Lizzy, I knew she was special," announced an equally intoxicated Sherman Potter to Emerson. The two gentlemen walked out of the mens room holding each other up and continuing their conversation through the rest of the reception hall. "I tell you Em, she had that boy of your smitten from the start."
"Well Sherm, I'd be willing to bet that Charlie wasn't the only one who fell for her," laughed Emerson nodding his head towards the dance floor where the best man was dancing with the bride. Charles had followed the two men to their seats, when he was certain they were comfortably settled, he turned his attention back to the rest of the party. He watched Pierce dancing with his Elizabeth and thought that while Hawkeye may have physical grace and make a pretty picture with his bride, he did not bring the sparkle to Elizabeths eyes the way that Charles did.
B.J. walked up next to Charles, he had a sleeping Erin in his arms and spoke softly, "Charles, you might want to go rescue your bride and send Hawkeye over to Margaret, she's looking lonely."
"B.J. I want to thank you for making this trip to be at our wedding," Charles said gently, he tenderly touched the top of the sleeping childs head. "You have been a good friend and I want you to know that I never truly appreciated the sacrifices that you made in Korea until I held my own children in my arms."
"Each day is a gift Charles, don't waste a moment of it."
"Indeed. Have a safe trip home B.J."
B.J. gave Charles a wink and a smile as he walked towards the door where Peg stood with their coats in her arms. Charles watched them as Peg gently dressed the sleeping child and B.J. helped her into her coat as well. It was a touching moment for Charles, and he knew that his life would never be empty or shallow, as long as he had Elizabeth by his side.
Chapter III
Charles parents departed for England shortly after New Years day, they sent Honoria and Jane on a grand tour of Europe together leaving Elizabeth, Charles and the twins alone in the big house.
The new Winchesters of Boston settled into family life, they decided to forgo a honeymoon and chose to spend the time at their house enjoying time alone with their children and each other. Charles soon found that his wifes enthusiasm for the marriage bed was beyond his wildest expectations. After a few weeks of enjoying his nubile young wife, Charles was almost relieved to return to work, almost. He had recently been promoted to the head of thoracic surgery at Boston General Hospital and was eager to back in the swing of things.
Elizabeth found the demands of being Mrs. Charles Emerson Winchester the III was quite a bit more than she had bargained for. She was more than contented to let the housekeeper Mrs. Reynolds handle the day-to-day management of the big house, and she had an excellent nanny to assist her with the twins, but it was all of the evening social functions and almost daily gatherings of the wives of the Boston scene that she found over- whelming. After about a month of running herself ragged Elizabeth decided that enough was enough. She realized that she did not need to be seen every day and night by high society, that the clique was really happy enough to have a monetary donation and see the Winchester name on the RSVP list, but that it didn't matter if they showed up or not. Armed with this knowledge she was able to devote more time to her family, her music and her study to become a doctor.
--
Elizabeth would often come to take Charles to lunch and many times she would just drop by to say hello for no reason at all. She enjoyed meeting the staff and would sit in the back of lectures, taking notes and doing research on her own. Charles encouraged his wife in all of this, knowing of her thirst for knowledge he agreed with her that she should finish her education. Elizabeth wanted to wait until the children were older before returning to school but auditing lectures and observing surgeries were an excellent way for her to keep her skills sharp without distracting too much from her young family.
Mrs. Winchester was a regular visitor to Doctor Winchesters office. His secretary Claire was pleased to see so much love between the couple. She had worked with Dr. Winchester for several years and noticed the change in him after his return from the war. It was clear to see that having Elizabeth as his wife had done far more than give him an heir. His manners were improved, he was more congenial to his staff, as a whole more relaxed and when his wife visited him he tended walked about the rest of the day with a happy smile on his face.
One fine spring day as Claire returned for her lunch break, she noticed the door to the doctors office was ajar. She was about to close it when she heard a noise coming from the inside. She found herself peeking through the door way and saw Dr. Winchester standing in front of his desk with his back to the door. She could see a womans shapely legs in high heels between his feet. She watched with shock as the woman's shoes were kicked off and the feet placed themselves on the outside of the doctors. Claire turned away in numb shock and horror. Not knowing what to do she sat at her desk and began to fidget with the buttons on the front of her blouse.
Inside the doctors office Elizabeth had just kicked off her shoes, "I wanted to surprise you for lunch Doctor Winchester," she said coyly knowing how much it turned her husband on to hear her use his title. She spread her legs and stood with one foot on either side of his. "I am most happily surprised Mrs. Winchester," he said quietly, kissing her ears, neck and lips as he slid his hands up her thighs under her skirt. He hooked his thumbs under the waist band of her panties and garters, giving a quick yank she was free of her undergarments. Elizabeth threw her arms around Charles neck, with nimble fingers he freed himself and lifted his lovely wife onto his desk. He thrust himself inside her wetness and she exclaimed, "Oh, doctor!"
Claire heard a woman's lusty voice exclaim "Oh, doctor" from the room behind her. She felt her face grow scarlet and found herself again peering through the doctor's door. She almost screamed when she saw the woman had her legs around the doctor's waist and that his pants were around his ankles. She was glad that he had his long white lab coat on to shield her from seeing more of him and the woman he was so vulgarly taking his pleasure in on his desk. Claire turned and bolted from the office, she ran to the ladies room and began to splash cold water on her face. She was embarrassed to have witnessed such a seen and angry with the doctor for being unfaithful to his wife.
After a few minutes Claire collected herself enough to return to the office, she found his office door wide open. She stepped inside prepared to berate the doctor and his mistress but she found the room empty. She noticed that the woman had left her garter with the stocking still attached to them under his desk. She was staring intently at them when she heard someone cough behind her. Claire jumped and screamed, she turned to see an equally startled Mrs. Winchester.
"Oh my! Oh Claire, I am sorry if I frightened you," apologized Elizabeth with her hand on her chest trying to calm the beating of her heart.
"Oh.Oh.Mrs. Winchester." stammered a frightened and confused Claire. "I.I.do not know where the doctor is, I have just returned from lunch," she lied badly.
"It's alright Claire, I was just here and I left something in his office," Elizabeth said with a slight blush to her checks wondering if Claire had witnessed anything.
"You.You were just here," Claire asked, her face going from red to white to pink from her anger, shock and embarrassment.
"Yes.I - uhm.surprised.Dr. Winchester and he.had to leave to leave right away for a luncheon meeting," Elizabeth said disjointedly, feeling rather embarrassed that the older woman had most likely noticed her discarded stockings under Charles desk and lord only knows what conclusions she was drawing.
"Oh!" Claire was still startled but noticed that Mrs. Winchesters shoes looked familiar and that she was not wearing stockings. Claire blushed, realizing what had happened she was no longer angry with the doctor, but feeling rather like a peeping-tom for invading their privacy.
"Claire, would you mind getting me a glass of water," Elizabeth asked politely. The older woman left and Elizabeth quickly put back on her stockings. With an amused grin to herself Elizabeth wondered about the possibilities of other such surprises for her husband.
Chapter IV
Soon June was upon the newlyweds and Charles found that not only was his wife was an excellent golfer, she did indeed look stunning in her short golf skirts. Elizabeth had talked Charles into walking the green with her and giving him a knowing wink, she tipped the caddy and told him to meet them on the 15th hole with the golf cart. Alone with his wife in the middle the 3rd hole Charles wondered what she had planned for him. Elizabeth was lining up her put when she made a disgusted sound.
"What's the matter my love," Charles asked, admiring his wifes lovely form from a few feet away.
"I'm having trouble with this shot. perhaps I am not getting my shoulders and hips to line up," she said looking over her shoulder, giving Charles a come hither look.
"Allow me to assist you," he said gallantly walking over and straightening his wifes shoulders and hips.
"Oh dear," pouted Elizabeth. She leaned back against her husband and widened her stance so that one foot was on either side of his, "I think that I've forgotten something."
"And what might that be my sweet," Charles said as he caressed her hips enjoying having her lovely round bottom pressed up against him. As she leaned further back against him, he leaned forward and kissed her collarbone. Elizabeth whispered breathlessly into his ear, caressing her lips against his ear lobe in the way she knew inflamed him, ". . . underwear. . ."
The affect that one word had on Charles was inspiring to Elizabeth. He smiled at his wife and she suddenly bent over at the waist, "Oh, how careless, my shoe is untied," she said bracing her hands on the grass. Charles, with three quick movements and a thrust, found himself inside of her. He was not able to get more than five or six delicious strokes when Elizabeth suddenly stood up and slid away from him. "Darling, we have many more holes to play before the game is through," she said primly straitening her skirt.
They played through the rest of the fairway with Elizabeth finding something or other wrong with her shot, and Charles eagerly assisting her with correcting her stance. By the time they reached the 14th hole Charles found himself nearly salivating with anticipation. Elizabeth stood to take her shot, Charles was disappointed that she did not ask for help this time. With a resounding whack, she knocked the ball into the small woods next to the green.
"Oh dear me, what have I done now," Elizabeth said with mock shock. Charles smiled at his wife as she slowly sauntered towards him, "Now I suppose I shall have to help you look for your ball Elizabeth." He said taking her hand and walking carefully into the trees. Elizabeth, her back against a tree and leg up on a fallen log next to it, pulled her husband to her. He eagerly kissed her lips, his hands slid up her naked thighs lifting her skirt he slipped inside of her. Elizabeth moaned in pleasure, her eyes closed, head thrown back, clutching her arms tightly around Charles. He slowly ground himself into her, he could feel her wetness soaking him and as she shook with her orgasm, he felt himself reach his peak. After claiming his long sought prize, Charles said with a silly grin on his face, "I never realized how exhilarating golf can be!"
--
Time passed quickly for Charles and Elizabeth, soon their children were rolling over, babbling for mama, and dada and in general growing larger by the moment. Elizabeth was going over her personal calendar one afternoon when she noticed something was conspicuously missing from her careful notes. She counted back the previous two months and with a little smile to herself, she picked up the phone and made an appointment.
--
Elizabeth walked into Charles office positively glowing with happiness, "Good morning Claire," she said cheerfully. "How does the doctors schedule look for March?"
"He has a three day conference in the middle of March in Florida, Mrs. Winchester," Clair said looking ahead in the calendar.
"I'm afraid that I'm going to have to ask you clear the doctors schedule for all of March, possibly some of April as well," Elizabeth said breathlessly, she could hardly contain her joy.
Claire noticed that Mrs. Winchester seemed flushed. "Certainly ma'am, I can put that request into the doctor but he would have to approve it himself before I cancel a conference."
"I am certain that he will approve this," Elizabeth said with a wink to the older woman. "Is he in a meeting right now?"
"Yes, he should be just finishing up with Dr. Chandler, I expect him back at any moment," Claire said slightly confused at how strange Mrs. Winchester was behaving. As if on queue, Charles walked into the office with his face in his notes, speaking distractedly to his secretary.
"Claire I'm going to need you to pull the research notes on these patients. . . . Oh! Elizabeth, What a pleasant surprise! What brings you here at this time of the day," Charles asked, setting down a stack of manila folders on Claire's desk and kissing his wife on the cheek.
"I was just blocking a little time on your calendar my dear. I hope you don't mind," Elizabeth said with a bright smile, taking his hand and walking into his office, she shut the door behind them and turned to her husband, "I hope now that we are alone I will get more than just a little peck on the check?"
Charles sat on the chair behind his desk, pulled Elizabeth into his lap, kissing her lips and wrapping his arms around her, ". . . is that better Mrs. Winchester," he asked. He was always surprised to find how aroused he became from just his wifes kisses, and wondered for the thousandth time what good thing he had done to cause the universe to give him such a gift as his Elizabeth.
"Much," she said returning his embrace and resting her head on his shoulder.
"To what do I owe this surprise visit my lovely wife," he asked running his hands down her shapely legs.
"Well I wanted to let you know that Bingly and Jane want to see 'Othello' with us this weekend, and that we'll need to buy another crib for the nursery," Elizabeth said quickly toying with the name tag on his lab coat as she spoke.
"Wonderful, I haven't seen them in weeks.and.what do we need to buy," Charles asked not certain he had heard her correctly.
"Another crib my dear. Oh, and I've asked Claire to cancel your trip in March." Elizabeth said calmly, straightening his tie and not looking into his eyes. Charles gently reached down with his finger and tipped her chin up so she would look into his eyes. "Are you telling me that we're having another baby?" Elizabeth shyly nodded, she bit her lower lip in anticipation of Charles reaction. Charles laughed out loud, hugged Elizabeth closer. "Darling, you should know by now that I adore all of your surprises," he whispered to his wife covering her face with kisses between words.
Charles was a most attentive husband throughout all of Elizabeths confinement. He rubbed her back and feet when they were sore, brought her extra pillows when she wanted to sit up and read in bed and was in general just plain wonderful. Charles found that he loved to cuddle his wife and the feeling of his child growing inside of her swelling belly pleased him far more than he could have ever imagined.
The Winchester family was joined by Richard Fitzwilliam on March 17th, 1955, by Victoria Jane on November 30th, 1957, by Edward James on February 14th, 1959, by Martin Joseph on October 1st, 1961 and by Ophelia Honoria on August 30th, 1963.