Disclaimer: I don't own Will and Grace or its characters. The songs in
this chapter are 'Toes' by Norah Jones and 'Calico Skies' by Paul
McCartney, I own neither one. The chapter title is another song by Norah
Jones that I don't own.
Chapter Forty-Nine
Be Here To Love Me
On Christmas morning, Karen woke up before Jack did and shifted in his embrace a little bit. She lay on her back for a few minutes, looking up at the ceiling. Finally, she turned over and looked at Jack. "Jackie," she said softly, touching his cheek.
"Hmm," Jack responded, holding Karen more tightly to him. He yawned and then opened his eyes. "Morning," he said, looking at his wife and smiling.
"Merry Christmas poodle," Karen said.
"Merry Christmas. What time is it?" Jack asked, sitting up. He looked over at the alarm clock and saw it was nine. "Want to get up?"
"Sure, I can't wait to open those presents under the tree," Karen said, getting out of the bed. She walked over to her robe and picked it up, putting it on. "I'm going to take a shower Jackie and then we'll wake up the girls."
Jack sat on the edge of the bed, rubbing his eyes and yawning slightly. He heard the water in the shower turn on and then got up.
Karen let the warm water cascade over her and she closed her eyes. She was a little startled when Jack suddenly came into the shower. "You couldn't wait your turn?" she asked playfully as he stood in front of her.
"I didn't want to waste water," Jack said, putting his hand on the back of Karen's neck. He then pulled her to him and they kissed passionately.
When they pulled apart, Karen smiled up at Jack and said, "Give me that bottle of body wash Jackie."
"No," Jack said, putting his arms around her waist.
"What's the matter with you?" Karen asked, surprised at his brusque answer.
He didn't answer her, but lifted her up and leaned her against the tile wall of the shower.
"Jackie!" Karen cried out in surprise when she felt his member inside her. She moaned a little and then wrapped her legs around his waist.
Smiling, Jack kissed Karen's chin before moving down to her breasts, sucking and kneading them gently.
Karen gasped and moaned with immense pleasure as she felt her back rub up and down the wall as Jack thrust in and out of her quickly. After a long time, she closed her eyes tightly and cried out Jack's name over and over as she climaxed.
With one final thrust inside Karen, Jack moaned out his release as he himself climaxed deeply inside of her.
After a few minutes, Karen stepped back down on the floor and reached over for a bottle of body wash. She put some of the soap on a wet washcloth. "Come here poodle," she said to Jack, who was watching her. "I want to wash you off."
"Can I do the same thing to you?" Jack asked eagerly. When Karen nodded, he stepped up to her and allowed her to wash his body. When he was rinsed off, he took another washcloth and got it wet.
While Jack had his back turned to her, Karen put her arms around him and kissed his shoulder a few times. "I love you Jackie," she said, resting her head on his back even though her hair was getting wet.
Jack turned around and pulled Karen close to him and kissed her deeply. When he pulled away slightly, he whispered, "Love you too Karebear." He smiled and then started to wash her with the washcloth with soap on it. He kissed her shoulder before moving down to her stomach and legs, going over them with the washcloth. When he was done, he placed a kiss on her abdomen and then stood up so he could help her rinse off.
When she was completely clean, Karen turned off the water and then handed a towel to Jack. She grabbed another for herself and wrapped it around her body. When they had both stepped out of the shower, she turned to Jack and kissed him on the lips gently. "I'm going to get dressed and then we'll go get the girls."
Going over to his closet, Jack wiped away some of the water that was in his hair. He quickly changed into a pajama set and then went out to the bathroom. When Karen didn't come out in a few minutes, he went over to her closet. "Kare, what's taking so long?" he asked, whining a little bit.
"Take it easy poodle," Karen said as she pulled on her dark blue robe. "We'll go open those presents right now," she then said, smiling at him. She walked over to him and took his hand, pulling him out to their bedroom.
In the hallway, Jack went to Elizabeth's room while Karen went over to Sophia's. He walked inside the bedroom and went straight to the crib. "Hey little one," he said when he looked down in the crib, seeing she was awake. He lifted her up and settled her in his arm. "Let's go and see what Santa brought you last night." With that, Jack walked out of the room and towards the stairs.
"Wait for us poodle," Karen called behind him, Sophia in her arms.
Jack turned around and asked, "You fed her already?"
"She's not hungry yet," Karen answered as they started down the stairs. "I'll just feed her later."
They walked into the living room, and Jack set Elizabeth on the floor while he went over to the Christmas tree. He plugged in the lights and sat down on the floor near the gifts.
"Are you going to hand out the gifts Jackie?" Karen asked as she settled on the armchair near the tree.
"Sure, why, you want to do it with Sophie in your arms Kare?" Jack asked.
"Funny Jackie," Karen answered, rolling her eyes. "Get one of Ebie's gifts first."
"Come here Ebie," Jack said to her. When she had walked over to him, he gave her a gift and then helped her to start unwrapping it.
Elizabeth quickly took over, ripping off the paper as fast as she could. She threw the gift wrap over to the side, and then tried to open the box.
"Wait, wait a sec Ebie," Jack said. He took the box and opened it for her, showing Elizabeth what was inside. There was a small wool coat and a blue and white scarf inside. "These are beautiful Kare," Jack said as he made Ebie stand up. "Here little one, let me help you try this on." When the jacket was on he hugged her and kissed her cheek. "Go and show your mom."
Elizabeth walked over to Karen as quickly as should.
"You look pretty Ebie," Karen said as she straightened out the coat with her free hand. "Okay Jackie," she said after admiring their daughter for a few minutes more. "Open one of the gifts that are yours now."
They took their time opening the rest of the gifts. When they were finished, they had about three hours left before they would go to Katherine and Edward's for dinner and to exchange gifts.
"I think we should let these two take naps until we leave," Karen said as she put one of two pairs of shoes Jack had bought her back in its box.
"Good idea that way they can stay up longer tonight down at Eddie and Kat's" Jack said. He picked up Sophia off her blanket and then waited for Karen to get Elizabeth.
Together, the four of them walked up the stairs and over to Karen and Jack's bedroom. They carefully put their daughters at the head of the bed and surprisingly, Sophia and Elizabeth both fell asleep quickly.
"Thanks for the sweaters and stuff Kare," Jack said quietly, kissing her cheek.
"You're welcome honey," Karen said smiling. "And I love the Gucci shoes you got me this year."
Jack grinned and then carefully got up from the bed.
"Where are you going?" Karen asked in surprise as he started towards the door.
"Shh," Jack said, putting his finger to his lips. He left the room and then came back a few minutes later with a small box in his hands. "I almost forgot about this one."
"Another present?" Karen asked as he sat down next to her at the end of the bed. She took the gift and opened the lid since it wasn't wrapped. "Jackie, what is this?" Karen asked in confusion as she pulled out what was inside.
"You can't tell?" Jack asked a grin on his face. "It's a bracelet Kare."
"Well, I know that poodle, but what's with the gems?" Karen asked, indicating the four gemstones set into the silver bracelet.
"Each one of these is for the months the four of us were born," Jack said. "This," he said, pointing to a dark blue stone on one end, "Is the birthstone for Ebie. This green one my birthstone, the purple one is yours and the light blue is Sophie's."
Karen slipped on the bracelet and shifted it on her wrist so she could see the gemstones sparkle. "It's wonderful poodle, I love it." She then put her arms around his neck and pulled him to her, kissing him fervently.
~~~
At three o'clock, Katherine went down the stairs to the living room after having gotten dressed for dinner. She was wearing a long, silk navy blue skirt that Edward had given her that morning and a blouse that Karen bought for her birthday in February. She hurried over to the tree and checked to make sure that all the gifts for her sister, brother in law and nieces were there. Seeing that everything was set, she walked to the couch and sat down to wait for her sister.
"You look beautiful Katherine," Edward said, walking into the room. He smiled gently at her as he walked to the couch and sat down next to her.
"Thank you Edward," Katherine said. "I truly do love this skirt."
Edward smiled and put his arm around Katherine's waist. "I love you," he said tenderly. He pulled her close to him and was about to kiss her.
"Oh! The doorbell," Katherine said, pulling out of Edward's embrace. "That must be Kare and Jack." She hurried out of the living and went over to the front door. She opened it and smiled at Karen saying, "Only a few minutes late Kare, that's got to be some sort of record."
"I know Kath, I'm so proud of myself," Karen said as she walked in leading Elizabeth by the hand. She kissed her sister's cheek and then helped Elizabeth take her coat off.
"Hello everyone," Edward said, coming out of the living room. "I thought that might be you, but I was unsure since it's too early for you guys."
Karen laughed as Jack helped her out of her coat. "We made sure to get here early so we could open those presents right away!" she said.
"Hi Auntie Karen, Uncle Jack!" Amber and Patrick said as they hurried down the stairs. They both gave them a hug and then went over to say hello to their cousin.
"Well, I suppose we should go open gifts first," Katherine said as she handed Sophia to Karen. "I brought down a cradle to put Sophie in Kare."
"Thanks Kath," Karen said as they all walked into the living room. "I had to wait till Jack opened all of his presents before I opened mine, so he could hold Sophie."
"Was Ebie happy with her gifts?" Edward asked as they all gathered around the tree.
"Oh yeah, she loved her toys, and the clothes her mom got her," Jack said, taking Karen's hand and squeezing it.
Katherine, who was surveying the gifts said, "We'll do this in alphabetical order, so Amber's first."
"Did you put out the gifts from us?" Karen asked.
"Don't worry Kare, they're there," Katherine said, she picked up a large present and handed it to her daughter.
~~~
After the presents had been opened, everyone stayed in the living room. Jack and Karen talked with Katherine and Edward. The children, with the exception of Sophia, were playing with the toys that they had received.
"So when are you going to come back to the office Kare?" Katherine asked her sister.
"You know Grace gave me until Sophie's six months," Karen said. "I'll come back the second week of May."
"Good, because it's pretty boring without hearing you and Gracie bantering," Katherine said, smiling.
"Just be thankful it isn't the two of you who's arguing," Edward said jokingly.
"That's a horrible thing to say Edward," Katherine said, a touch of anger in her voice.
"Well...I meant that as a joke Katherine," Edward said, looking surprised. "I know you and Karen wouldn't argue."
Katherine looked at her brother in law and sister, then at her children who had stopped what they were doing and looking over at the adults. "I'm going to see if the dinner is ready yet," she mumbled, standing up. "Excuse me." With that, she hurriedly left the room, going over to the kitchen.
"I'll go," Karen said as everyone was silent for a few minutes. She stood and then followed her sister's path to the kitchen. "Kath, come here, I want to talk with you," she said when she spotted where her sister was.
"I'm busy Kare," Katherine said shortly, looking into the oven.
"You've got your cook to look out for that turkey, come on Kath," Karen said forcefully, grabbing her sister's arm. She dragged her into the dining room, which was empty and then turned to face Katherine. "What is going on between you two?"
Katherine stared at her sister for a long time before she closed her eyes and leaned back against the wall. "I don't know Kare, it's like I'm getting annoyed with him so often now," she said. She then opened her eyes. "But I have no reason to, I do love him."
"Kath are you..." Karen started to say, hesitating a little bit. "Are you having an affair?"
"What?" Katherine cried out loudly. She covered her mouth with her hand and then looked at the door leading to the living room. When no one came, she removed her hand and said, "Of course not Kare, I just said that I love Edward."
"I'm sorry," Karen said quickly, taking her sister's hand. "It's just that...you seemed like you were involved with someone else."
"I know, I think Edward is afraid of that as well," Katherine said, looking down at the floor. "I'm going to try and make it up to him tonight, and try to reassure him that I'm not having an affair."
"Good idea, make up sex-" Karen was about to say.
"I'm not making it up to him like that," Katherine said with a slight giggle. "I'm giving him his Christmas present tonight."
"Oh, well keep the make up sex in mind," Karen said. "That's always a nice gift."
Katherine laughed and then hugged her sister tightly. "What would I do without you Kare?" she said.
"I don't know, look like some hick from the middle of nowhere I guess," Karen said as they let go of each other.
"Yes, your fashion advice to me has become invaluable," Katherine said with a smile. She kissed Karen's cheek and said, "I do thank you for that."
"Aw, it's nothing honey, what are sisters for?" Karen said, winking at her and making Katherine laugh once again.
~~~
Later that night, as Jack and Karen were getting ready to go back to their penthouse, Jack took Edward off to the side so they could speak.
"Thanks so much for the birthstone idea," Jack said to his brother in law.
"Don't thank me Jack," Edward said, smiling. "You're the one who thought to have the four of your guys' birthstones on the bracelet, I just suggested using one."
"Hey, that's true, you should be thanking me then," Jack said after thinking for a minute.
"Yes, thank you very much for the idea Jack," Edward said.
"Jackie honey, are you ready to go?" Karen asked.
"Yeah," Jack said. He turned to Edward and whispered, "Hope Kat likes your gifts."
"Me too," Edward answered.
Jack walked over to Karen and picked Elizabeth up. "Thanks for all the great stuff you guys," he said as they left. "See you later!"
Katherine laughed and shook her head as she closed the door behind them. "Alright, you lot need to get to bed," she said, turning to Amber and Patrick.
"Can't we stay up a little longer Ma?"
"Yes Mummy, please?" came the replies from the two children.
"Come on you two, listen to your mother," Edward said, gently pushing the two children over to the stairs. He then walked over to Katherine and put his hand on her back as they followed their children up the stairs.
"I'll meet you in our room," Katherine whispered to him.
Edward nodded and then hurried into their bedroom. He went to his dresser and pulled out the small jewelry box, walking over to the bed once he had it in his hands. He set it down on the mattress and then started to pace the floor nervously.
Katherine came into the room and closed the door softly behind her. She was about to take a step forward, but stopped, thinking for a moment. She then turned around and locked the door firmly.
"Shall we exchange the gifts then?" Edward asked, trying not to show his surprise at his wife's actions. They only locked their bedroom door when they were planning on making love. When he realized that, Edward's heart beat a little more quickly. He and Katherine hadn't had sex in about four months now, and he missed her terribly.
"Yes, I guess now is as good a time as any," Katherine said, smiling at him. She was about to walk over to the nightstand on her side of the bed when Edward stopped her.
"Open mine first Katherine, please," he said quietly.
"Oh, of course love," Katherine replied, a little surprised by the nervousness in his voice. She sat down on the edge of the bed and took the box from Edward. She lifted the lid and gasped at what was inside.
"Do you like it?" Edward asked anxiously, looking for a pleased expression on his wife's voice.
"It's...perfect," Katherine breathed. "Oh Edward, it's lovely!" she then cried, throwing her arms around his neck. When she let go of him, she took the necklace out of the box and handed it to her husband so he could place it around her neck.
"You know those are our birthstones," Edward said as he fastened the clasp.
"I know," Katherine said, smiling. Her necklace had four gemstones; a purple one for herself, a light blue, almost white stone for Edward, a light blue stone for Amber, and an opal for Patrick; they were all in a teardrop shape. In between each stone was a small diamond and the necklace itself was silver. "Thank you so much."
Edward smiled and then kissed Katherine's cheek softly. "I'm happy you like it," he said.
"Now for your gift," Katherine said, sounding nervous now. She got up and went over to her night stand. She opened the cabinet on the bottom and then withdrew a file. She walked back to the bed and then handed the file to Edward.
"What's this?" he asked, confused. He opened the manila folder and read the paper that was inside. "Katherine...this is the deed to-"
"Glaeve," Katherine said solemnly.
"I thought this was your brother's?" Edward asked, looking confused.
"He gave it to me last week," Katherine said. "He says that he and Sara wish to spend their summers at York then there."
"But...why are you giving the deed to me?" Edward asked.
"I love you Edward. And I want this to be proof that I will never cheat on you or have an affair with another man," Katherine said, looking down at her hands in her lap.
Edward reached out to tilt his wife's head so she was looking at him. "I don't need Glaeve for that," he said, throwing the file to the floor. "Your word is good enough for me."
Katherine looked up at him and tears fell from her eyes. "I'm so sorry about the way I've been treating you," she then said.
"Never mind love," Edward said, wiping the tears off her cheeks. He leaned down hesitatingly and then captured Katherine's lips with his own.
Wrapping her arms around Edward's shoulder, Katherine moaned as she felt him slip his hand up her blouse. When they pulled apart to breathe, she whispered, "I want to make love to you tonight Edward, my love."
"As do I you my dear Emma," Edward said, using his pet name for her when they had sex.
Katherine smiled and then leaned in to kiss him again, this time taking off his shirt.
Edward shivered a little as his wife's hands traced his spinal cord on his bare back. He pulled away from their kiss and then quickly undressed Katherine. When she was naked, he started to kiss her all over her body before going back and kissing her mouth hungrily.
"I love you," Katherine whispered as she helped Edward take the rest of his clothes off.
"Oh my dearest, sweet Emma," Edward whispered as he lowered himself to her. "I've missed you so much."
When her husband entered her with one quick stroke, Katherine moaned slightly and then put her arms around him.
"I love you so much," Edward said as he started to move in and out of her gently.
Tears starting to fall down her face again, Katherine drew Edward to her lips and kissed him deeply. As they continued to kiss, she felt her body start to shudder, and she pulled away from his lips. Crying out Edward's name over and over, Katherine climaxed, feeling as if she was returning home.
"Oh Emma," Edward said huskily that same moment as he too climaxed, his heart beating so quickly he was afraid Katherine would be able to hear it.
When the two were sated, Katherine lifted her head slightly so she could look into her husband's eyes. "I love you," she said once again.
"And I will always love you Katherine," Edward said. He got off of her and then lay out next to her, pulling her into his embrace.
"Good night Edward," Katherine said as he kissed her temple.
"Night love," Edward responded, closing his eyes.
~~~
At Jack and Karen's penthouse, they were putting their daughters to bed together.
"I think this year was one of the best Christmases we've had," Jack commented as they left Elizabeth's room.
"It was," Karen said as they walked into their bedroom. She looked through the balcony doors and got an idea. "Jackie, why don't you play me one of those songs from the songbook Kath gave you today?"
"Oh, sure," Jack said, surprised. He took Karen's hand and then led her down the stairs to the living room. "Come and sit next to me," he said as Karen tried to walk over to the couch. "And you pick a song since you want to hear one."
Karen took the songbook from him and flipped through the pages. She looked up at him and said, "I want you to sing these two for me." She handed the book back to Jack and pointed to the two songs.
Jack looked at them and then nodded. "Alright, but I may mess up since I haven't tried these out yet," he warned. He placed his fingers on the keys and with a quick look at the first notes, started to play.
The current is strong from what I've heard
It'll whisk you down the stream
But I never seem to have the time
So my toes just touch the water
So my toes just touch the water
Daydreamed on the bank again
I was swimming with the fish
And I thought this time that it may be true
But my toes just touched the water
But my toes just touched the water
But my toes just touched the water
Walked a mile just to find the edge
Some place low enough
To step right in
Now that I'm here and I can't begin
To move
Walked a mile just to find the edge
Some place low enough
To step right in
Now that I'm here and I can't begin
To move
That spoiled sun up over there
Always has to have its way
And I know that the river's there to shelter me
But my toes just touched the water
But my toes just touched the water
But my toes just touched the water
Jack rested his fingers on the keyboard and looked over at Karen, smiling.
"That was beautiful Jackie," Karen said. "You played it perfectly."
"Thanks Kare. Let's see if I can get the next one," Jack said sarcastically. He started to play and began singing.
It was written that I would love you
From the moment I opened my eyes
And the morning when I first saw you
Gave me life under calico skies
I will hold you for the rest of my life
Always looking for ways to love you
Never failing to fight at your side
While the angels of love protect us
From the innermost secrets we hide
I'll hold you for as long as you like
I'll hold you for the rest of my life
Long live all of us crazy soldiers who were born under calico skies
May we never be called to handle
All the weapons of war we despise
I'll hold you for as long as you like
I'll hold you for the rest of my life
I'll hold you for as long as you like
I'll hold you for the rest of my...
For the rest of my life
Karen smiled and rested her head on Jack's shoulder as he covered the keys. "You're very talented Jackie," she said.
"Thanks Karebear," Jack said, kissing the top of her head. "Come on, let's go to bed."
They left the living room, going back to their room.
When they were inside, Karen pulled Jack's hand and led him out to the balcony.
"Kare, you don't want to make love out here do you?" Jack asked in surprise. The entire balcony was dusted with a small layer of snow.
Watching as her husband walked over to the railing and looked out at the city; Karen knelt down and picked up some snow.
Jack was about to turn to Karen when he felt something cold hit his back. "What?" he cried turning around.
Karen was standing there, giggling melting snow dripping from her hands.
"Oh yeah, think you can get me?" Jack said with a smirk. He then picked some snow up and started throwing it at Karen.
With a small shriek, Karen ran to the table and picked the snow off of there, throwing it at Jack.
They had a short snowball fight until most of the snow was gone and both of them were almost dripping wet.
"So, a tie?" Jack asked as he walked over to Karen.
"Yep, let's go and get warm," Karen said, taking his hand and pulling him into their bedroom.
"Oh Kare, you're skin is cold," Jack said as they walked over to the bed.
"Yours is too honey," Karen said. She lay back on the bed and then when Jack was above her, started to unbutton his shirt.
"Lemme make you warm first Karebear," Jack said as he started to unbutton Karen's blouse. He helped her to take off his shirt and then pushed her hands down to the mattress. When her blouse was on the floor, he started kissing her shoulders and then chest.
"Hmm, hold on a second," Karen said. She slipped out from under Jack and then went back to the headboard. "Come here poodle," she then said seductively, beckoning him with her finger.
Jack didn't waste any time going over to her. He pulled off her high heeled shoes and then started kissing his way up her leg. When he reached the edge of Karen's skirt he said to her, "Lay down for me Kare." When she was down on the mattress, he pushed the black skirt up and kissed the inside of her thighs.
"Let me help you with that Jackie," Karen murmured, reaching down to help unzip the skirt.
"No Kare, leave it," Jack said, pushing her hand away gently. When he reached her panties, he finally took the skirt off. He slid her panties off of her legs and immediately placed his mouth on her, using his tongue to stroke her most sensitive places there.
Moaning, Karen let her hands go to Jack's hair and buried her fingers there. After about fifteen minutes, she cried out and started to thrash around slightly as she reached her release.
Jack smiled and then moved back up so he was even with Karen. "You're gorgeous Kare," he said softly.
Karen took a deep breath and then started to unbutton his trousers. She pulled off Jack's boxers and was about to put her hand around his member when he stopped her.
"Not tonight Kare," Jack said. "I wanna be in you, now."
"Before you do that," Karen said. "Take off this bra for me Jackie."
Helping Karen sit up, Jack took off the black bra and immediately started to tease her nipples with his fingers and tongue.
"Oooh Jackie, hurry up and get inside me," Karen moaned, her head falling back.
Still busy with her breasts, Jack positioned his member at her entrance and then slid inside her slowly. He moved up to Karen's mouth and kissed her deeply as he began to thrust. "Do you want to make love or-"
"Fuck," Karen said breathlessly as she put her arms around his back.
Jack kissed her deeply, sucking her lower lip in his mouth and making it swollen. He then started to move faster and faster, trying to satisfy their hunger for each other.
Unlike other times they made love, they were both quiet this time, only their gasps, moans and the sound of them kissing were heard.
A half hour later, Jack buried his face in Karen's neck and licked the sweat on her skin there. "Oh, oh god," he started to moan huskily.
"Jackie, JACKIE!" Karen cried out as she started to climax around him.
"Hmm, oh Christ, KARE!" Jack yelled back as he reached his edge at the same time, climaxing inside her.
Breathing deeply, Karen raked her fingers through Jack's sweaty hair and smiled. "I love you Jackie," she said.
Jack moved his head and looked down at her. "I love you so much too Kare," he said. He lowered his lips to hers and kissed her deeply for a long time.
"I hope you're going to sleep where you are," Karen said seriously when they pulled apart.
"Anything for you Karebear," Jack said. He kissed her lips and then rested his head on her breasts. "Good night Kare."
"Sweet dreams Jack," Karen said, smiling.
They both fell asleep soon after that, not even caring that the room was growing colder and they were uncovered and naked, they were taking warmth from each other's bodies.
Chapter Forty-Nine
Be Here To Love Me
On Christmas morning, Karen woke up before Jack did and shifted in his embrace a little bit. She lay on her back for a few minutes, looking up at the ceiling. Finally, she turned over and looked at Jack. "Jackie," she said softly, touching his cheek.
"Hmm," Jack responded, holding Karen more tightly to him. He yawned and then opened his eyes. "Morning," he said, looking at his wife and smiling.
"Merry Christmas poodle," Karen said.
"Merry Christmas. What time is it?" Jack asked, sitting up. He looked over at the alarm clock and saw it was nine. "Want to get up?"
"Sure, I can't wait to open those presents under the tree," Karen said, getting out of the bed. She walked over to her robe and picked it up, putting it on. "I'm going to take a shower Jackie and then we'll wake up the girls."
Jack sat on the edge of the bed, rubbing his eyes and yawning slightly. He heard the water in the shower turn on and then got up.
Karen let the warm water cascade over her and she closed her eyes. She was a little startled when Jack suddenly came into the shower. "You couldn't wait your turn?" she asked playfully as he stood in front of her.
"I didn't want to waste water," Jack said, putting his hand on the back of Karen's neck. He then pulled her to him and they kissed passionately.
When they pulled apart, Karen smiled up at Jack and said, "Give me that bottle of body wash Jackie."
"No," Jack said, putting his arms around her waist.
"What's the matter with you?" Karen asked, surprised at his brusque answer.
He didn't answer her, but lifted her up and leaned her against the tile wall of the shower.
"Jackie!" Karen cried out in surprise when she felt his member inside her. She moaned a little and then wrapped her legs around his waist.
Smiling, Jack kissed Karen's chin before moving down to her breasts, sucking and kneading them gently.
Karen gasped and moaned with immense pleasure as she felt her back rub up and down the wall as Jack thrust in and out of her quickly. After a long time, she closed her eyes tightly and cried out Jack's name over and over as she climaxed.
With one final thrust inside Karen, Jack moaned out his release as he himself climaxed deeply inside of her.
After a few minutes, Karen stepped back down on the floor and reached over for a bottle of body wash. She put some of the soap on a wet washcloth. "Come here poodle," she said to Jack, who was watching her. "I want to wash you off."
"Can I do the same thing to you?" Jack asked eagerly. When Karen nodded, he stepped up to her and allowed her to wash his body. When he was rinsed off, he took another washcloth and got it wet.
While Jack had his back turned to her, Karen put her arms around him and kissed his shoulder a few times. "I love you Jackie," she said, resting her head on his back even though her hair was getting wet.
Jack turned around and pulled Karen close to him and kissed her deeply. When he pulled away slightly, he whispered, "Love you too Karebear." He smiled and then started to wash her with the washcloth with soap on it. He kissed her shoulder before moving down to her stomach and legs, going over them with the washcloth. When he was done, he placed a kiss on her abdomen and then stood up so he could help her rinse off.
When she was completely clean, Karen turned off the water and then handed a towel to Jack. She grabbed another for herself and wrapped it around her body. When they had both stepped out of the shower, she turned to Jack and kissed him on the lips gently. "I'm going to get dressed and then we'll go get the girls."
Going over to his closet, Jack wiped away some of the water that was in his hair. He quickly changed into a pajama set and then went out to the bathroom. When Karen didn't come out in a few minutes, he went over to her closet. "Kare, what's taking so long?" he asked, whining a little bit.
"Take it easy poodle," Karen said as she pulled on her dark blue robe. "We'll go open those presents right now," she then said, smiling at him. She walked over to him and took his hand, pulling him out to their bedroom.
In the hallway, Jack went to Elizabeth's room while Karen went over to Sophia's. He walked inside the bedroom and went straight to the crib. "Hey little one," he said when he looked down in the crib, seeing she was awake. He lifted her up and settled her in his arm. "Let's go and see what Santa brought you last night." With that, Jack walked out of the room and towards the stairs.
"Wait for us poodle," Karen called behind him, Sophia in her arms.
Jack turned around and asked, "You fed her already?"
"She's not hungry yet," Karen answered as they started down the stairs. "I'll just feed her later."
They walked into the living room, and Jack set Elizabeth on the floor while he went over to the Christmas tree. He plugged in the lights and sat down on the floor near the gifts.
"Are you going to hand out the gifts Jackie?" Karen asked as she settled on the armchair near the tree.
"Sure, why, you want to do it with Sophie in your arms Kare?" Jack asked.
"Funny Jackie," Karen answered, rolling her eyes. "Get one of Ebie's gifts first."
"Come here Ebie," Jack said to her. When she had walked over to him, he gave her a gift and then helped her to start unwrapping it.
Elizabeth quickly took over, ripping off the paper as fast as she could. She threw the gift wrap over to the side, and then tried to open the box.
"Wait, wait a sec Ebie," Jack said. He took the box and opened it for her, showing Elizabeth what was inside. There was a small wool coat and a blue and white scarf inside. "These are beautiful Kare," Jack said as he made Ebie stand up. "Here little one, let me help you try this on." When the jacket was on he hugged her and kissed her cheek. "Go and show your mom."
Elizabeth walked over to Karen as quickly as should.
"You look pretty Ebie," Karen said as she straightened out the coat with her free hand. "Okay Jackie," she said after admiring their daughter for a few minutes more. "Open one of the gifts that are yours now."
They took their time opening the rest of the gifts. When they were finished, they had about three hours left before they would go to Katherine and Edward's for dinner and to exchange gifts.
"I think we should let these two take naps until we leave," Karen said as she put one of two pairs of shoes Jack had bought her back in its box.
"Good idea that way they can stay up longer tonight down at Eddie and Kat's" Jack said. He picked up Sophia off her blanket and then waited for Karen to get Elizabeth.
Together, the four of them walked up the stairs and over to Karen and Jack's bedroom. They carefully put their daughters at the head of the bed and surprisingly, Sophia and Elizabeth both fell asleep quickly.
"Thanks for the sweaters and stuff Kare," Jack said quietly, kissing her cheek.
"You're welcome honey," Karen said smiling. "And I love the Gucci shoes you got me this year."
Jack grinned and then carefully got up from the bed.
"Where are you going?" Karen asked in surprise as he started towards the door.
"Shh," Jack said, putting his finger to his lips. He left the room and then came back a few minutes later with a small box in his hands. "I almost forgot about this one."
"Another present?" Karen asked as he sat down next to her at the end of the bed. She took the gift and opened the lid since it wasn't wrapped. "Jackie, what is this?" Karen asked in confusion as she pulled out what was inside.
"You can't tell?" Jack asked a grin on his face. "It's a bracelet Kare."
"Well, I know that poodle, but what's with the gems?" Karen asked, indicating the four gemstones set into the silver bracelet.
"Each one of these is for the months the four of us were born," Jack said. "This," he said, pointing to a dark blue stone on one end, "Is the birthstone for Ebie. This green one my birthstone, the purple one is yours and the light blue is Sophie's."
Karen slipped on the bracelet and shifted it on her wrist so she could see the gemstones sparkle. "It's wonderful poodle, I love it." She then put her arms around his neck and pulled him to her, kissing him fervently.
~~~
At three o'clock, Katherine went down the stairs to the living room after having gotten dressed for dinner. She was wearing a long, silk navy blue skirt that Edward had given her that morning and a blouse that Karen bought for her birthday in February. She hurried over to the tree and checked to make sure that all the gifts for her sister, brother in law and nieces were there. Seeing that everything was set, she walked to the couch and sat down to wait for her sister.
"You look beautiful Katherine," Edward said, walking into the room. He smiled gently at her as he walked to the couch and sat down next to her.
"Thank you Edward," Katherine said. "I truly do love this skirt."
Edward smiled and put his arm around Katherine's waist. "I love you," he said tenderly. He pulled her close to him and was about to kiss her.
"Oh! The doorbell," Katherine said, pulling out of Edward's embrace. "That must be Kare and Jack." She hurried out of the living and went over to the front door. She opened it and smiled at Karen saying, "Only a few minutes late Kare, that's got to be some sort of record."
"I know Kath, I'm so proud of myself," Karen said as she walked in leading Elizabeth by the hand. She kissed her sister's cheek and then helped Elizabeth take her coat off.
"Hello everyone," Edward said, coming out of the living room. "I thought that might be you, but I was unsure since it's too early for you guys."
Karen laughed as Jack helped her out of her coat. "We made sure to get here early so we could open those presents right away!" she said.
"Hi Auntie Karen, Uncle Jack!" Amber and Patrick said as they hurried down the stairs. They both gave them a hug and then went over to say hello to their cousin.
"Well, I suppose we should go open gifts first," Katherine said as she handed Sophia to Karen. "I brought down a cradle to put Sophie in Kare."
"Thanks Kath," Karen said as they all walked into the living room. "I had to wait till Jack opened all of his presents before I opened mine, so he could hold Sophie."
"Was Ebie happy with her gifts?" Edward asked as they all gathered around the tree.
"Oh yeah, she loved her toys, and the clothes her mom got her," Jack said, taking Karen's hand and squeezing it.
Katherine, who was surveying the gifts said, "We'll do this in alphabetical order, so Amber's first."
"Did you put out the gifts from us?" Karen asked.
"Don't worry Kare, they're there," Katherine said, she picked up a large present and handed it to her daughter.
~~~
After the presents had been opened, everyone stayed in the living room. Jack and Karen talked with Katherine and Edward. The children, with the exception of Sophia, were playing with the toys that they had received.
"So when are you going to come back to the office Kare?" Katherine asked her sister.
"You know Grace gave me until Sophie's six months," Karen said. "I'll come back the second week of May."
"Good, because it's pretty boring without hearing you and Gracie bantering," Katherine said, smiling.
"Just be thankful it isn't the two of you who's arguing," Edward said jokingly.
"That's a horrible thing to say Edward," Katherine said, a touch of anger in her voice.
"Well...I meant that as a joke Katherine," Edward said, looking surprised. "I know you and Karen wouldn't argue."
Katherine looked at her brother in law and sister, then at her children who had stopped what they were doing and looking over at the adults. "I'm going to see if the dinner is ready yet," she mumbled, standing up. "Excuse me." With that, she hurriedly left the room, going over to the kitchen.
"I'll go," Karen said as everyone was silent for a few minutes. She stood and then followed her sister's path to the kitchen. "Kath, come here, I want to talk with you," she said when she spotted where her sister was.
"I'm busy Kare," Katherine said shortly, looking into the oven.
"You've got your cook to look out for that turkey, come on Kath," Karen said forcefully, grabbing her sister's arm. She dragged her into the dining room, which was empty and then turned to face Katherine. "What is going on between you two?"
Katherine stared at her sister for a long time before she closed her eyes and leaned back against the wall. "I don't know Kare, it's like I'm getting annoyed with him so often now," she said. She then opened her eyes. "But I have no reason to, I do love him."
"Kath are you..." Karen started to say, hesitating a little bit. "Are you having an affair?"
"What?" Katherine cried out loudly. She covered her mouth with her hand and then looked at the door leading to the living room. When no one came, she removed her hand and said, "Of course not Kare, I just said that I love Edward."
"I'm sorry," Karen said quickly, taking her sister's hand. "It's just that...you seemed like you were involved with someone else."
"I know, I think Edward is afraid of that as well," Katherine said, looking down at the floor. "I'm going to try and make it up to him tonight, and try to reassure him that I'm not having an affair."
"Good idea, make up sex-" Karen was about to say.
"I'm not making it up to him like that," Katherine said with a slight giggle. "I'm giving him his Christmas present tonight."
"Oh, well keep the make up sex in mind," Karen said. "That's always a nice gift."
Katherine laughed and then hugged her sister tightly. "What would I do without you Kare?" she said.
"I don't know, look like some hick from the middle of nowhere I guess," Karen said as they let go of each other.
"Yes, your fashion advice to me has become invaluable," Katherine said with a smile. She kissed Karen's cheek and said, "I do thank you for that."
"Aw, it's nothing honey, what are sisters for?" Karen said, winking at her and making Katherine laugh once again.
~~~
Later that night, as Jack and Karen were getting ready to go back to their penthouse, Jack took Edward off to the side so they could speak.
"Thanks so much for the birthstone idea," Jack said to his brother in law.
"Don't thank me Jack," Edward said, smiling. "You're the one who thought to have the four of your guys' birthstones on the bracelet, I just suggested using one."
"Hey, that's true, you should be thanking me then," Jack said after thinking for a minute.
"Yes, thank you very much for the idea Jack," Edward said.
"Jackie honey, are you ready to go?" Karen asked.
"Yeah," Jack said. He turned to Edward and whispered, "Hope Kat likes your gifts."
"Me too," Edward answered.
Jack walked over to Karen and picked Elizabeth up. "Thanks for all the great stuff you guys," he said as they left. "See you later!"
Katherine laughed and shook her head as she closed the door behind them. "Alright, you lot need to get to bed," she said, turning to Amber and Patrick.
"Can't we stay up a little longer Ma?"
"Yes Mummy, please?" came the replies from the two children.
"Come on you two, listen to your mother," Edward said, gently pushing the two children over to the stairs. He then walked over to Katherine and put his hand on her back as they followed their children up the stairs.
"I'll meet you in our room," Katherine whispered to him.
Edward nodded and then hurried into their bedroom. He went to his dresser and pulled out the small jewelry box, walking over to the bed once he had it in his hands. He set it down on the mattress and then started to pace the floor nervously.
Katherine came into the room and closed the door softly behind her. She was about to take a step forward, but stopped, thinking for a moment. She then turned around and locked the door firmly.
"Shall we exchange the gifts then?" Edward asked, trying not to show his surprise at his wife's actions. They only locked their bedroom door when they were planning on making love. When he realized that, Edward's heart beat a little more quickly. He and Katherine hadn't had sex in about four months now, and he missed her terribly.
"Yes, I guess now is as good a time as any," Katherine said, smiling at him. She was about to walk over to the nightstand on her side of the bed when Edward stopped her.
"Open mine first Katherine, please," he said quietly.
"Oh, of course love," Katherine replied, a little surprised by the nervousness in his voice. She sat down on the edge of the bed and took the box from Edward. She lifted the lid and gasped at what was inside.
"Do you like it?" Edward asked anxiously, looking for a pleased expression on his wife's voice.
"It's...perfect," Katherine breathed. "Oh Edward, it's lovely!" she then cried, throwing her arms around his neck. When she let go of him, she took the necklace out of the box and handed it to her husband so he could place it around her neck.
"You know those are our birthstones," Edward said as he fastened the clasp.
"I know," Katherine said, smiling. Her necklace had four gemstones; a purple one for herself, a light blue, almost white stone for Edward, a light blue stone for Amber, and an opal for Patrick; they were all in a teardrop shape. In between each stone was a small diamond and the necklace itself was silver. "Thank you so much."
Edward smiled and then kissed Katherine's cheek softly. "I'm happy you like it," he said.
"Now for your gift," Katherine said, sounding nervous now. She got up and went over to her night stand. She opened the cabinet on the bottom and then withdrew a file. She walked back to the bed and then handed the file to Edward.
"What's this?" he asked, confused. He opened the manila folder and read the paper that was inside. "Katherine...this is the deed to-"
"Glaeve," Katherine said solemnly.
"I thought this was your brother's?" Edward asked, looking confused.
"He gave it to me last week," Katherine said. "He says that he and Sara wish to spend their summers at York then there."
"But...why are you giving the deed to me?" Edward asked.
"I love you Edward. And I want this to be proof that I will never cheat on you or have an affair with another man," Katherine said, looking down at her hands in her lap.
Edward reached out to tilt his wife's head so she was looking at him. "I don't need Glaeve for that," he said, throwing the file to the floor. "Your word is good enough for me."
Katherine looked up at him and tears fell from her eyes. "I'm so sorry about the way I've been treating you," she then said.
"Never mind love," Edward said, wiping the tears off her cheeks. He leaned down hesitatingly and then captured Katherine's lips with his own.
Wrapping her arms around Edward's shoulder, Katherine moaned as she felt him slip his hand up her blouse. When they pulled apart to breathe, she whispered, "I want to make love to you tonight Edward, my love."
"As do I you my dear Emma," Edward said, using his pet name for her when they had sex.
Katherine smiled and then leaned in to kiss him again, this time taking off his shirt.
Edward shivered a little as his wife's hands traced his spinal cord on his bare back. He pulled away from their kiss and then quickly undressed Katherine. When she was naked, he started to kiss her all over her body before going back and kissing her mouth hungrily.
"I love you," Katherine whispered as she helped Edward take the rest of his clothes off.
"Oh my dearest, sweet Emma," Edward whispered as he lowered himself to her. "I've missed you so much."
When her husband entered her with one quick stroke, Katherine moaned slightly and then put her arms around him.
"I love you so much," Edward said as he started to move in and out of her gently.
Tears starting to fall down her face again, Katherine drew Edward to her lips and kissed him deeply. As they continued to kiss, she felt her body start to shudder, and she pulled away from his lips. Crying out Edward's name over and over, Katherine climaxed, feeling as if she was returning home.
"Oh Emma," Edward said huskily that same moment as he too climaxed, his heart beating so quickly he was afraid Katherine would be able to hear it.
When the two were sated, Katherine lifted her head slightly so she could look into her husband's eyes. "I love you," she said once again.
"And I will always love you Katherine," Edward said. He got off of her and then lay out next to her, pulling her into his embrace.
"Good night Edward," Katherine said as he kissed her temple.
"Night love," Edward responded, closing his eyes.
~~~
At Jack and Karen's penthouse, they were putting their daughters to bed together.
"I think this year was one of the best Christmases we've had," Jack commented as they left Elizabeth's room.
"It was," Karen said as they walked into their bedroom. She looked through the balcony doors and got an idea. "Jackie, why don't you play me one of those songs from the songbook Kath gave you today?"
"Oh, sure," Jack said, surprised. He took Karen's hand and then led her down the stairs to the living room. "Come and sit next to me," he said as Karen tried to walk over to the couch. "And you pick a song since you want to hear one."
Karen took the songbook from him and flipped through the pages. She looked up at him and said, "I want you to sing these two for me." She handed the book back to Jack and pointed to the two songs.
Jack looked at them and then nodded. "Alright, but I may mess up since I haven't tried these out yet," he warned. He placed his fingers on the keys and with a quick look at the first notes, started to play.
The current is strong from what I've heard
It'll whisk you down the stream
But I never seem to have the time
So my toes just touch the water
So my toes just touch the water
Daydreamed on the bank again
I was swimming with the fish
And I thought this time that it may be true
But my toes just touched the water
But my toes just touched the water
But my toes just touched the water
Walked a mile just to find the edge
Some place low enough
To step right in
Now that I'm here and I can't begin
To move
Walked a mile just to find the edge
Some place low enough
To step right in
Now that I'm here and I can't begin
To move
That spoiled sun up over there
Always has to have its way
And I know that the river's there to shelter me
But my toes just touched the water
But my toes just touched the water
But my toes just touched the water
Jack rested his fingers on the keyboard and looked over at Karen, smiling.
"That was beautiful Jackie," Karen said. "You played it perfectly."
"Thanks Kare. Let's see if I can get the next one," Jack said sarcastically. He started to play and began singing.
It was written that I would love you
From the moment I opened my eyes
And the morning when I first saw you
Gave me life under calico skies
I will hold you for the rest of my life
Always looking for ways to love you
Never failing to fight at your side
While the angels of love protect us
From the innermost secrets we hide
I'll hold you for as long as you like
I'll hold you for the rest of my life
Long live all of us crazy soldiers who were born under calico skies
May we never be called to handle
All the weapons of war we despise
I'll hold you for as long as you like
I'll hold you for the rest of my life
I'll hold you for as long as you like
I'll hold you for the rest of my...
For the rest of my life
Karen smiled and rested her head on Jack's shoulder as he covered the keys. "You're very talented Jackie," she said.
"Thanks Karebear," Jack said, kissing the top of her head. "Come on, let's go to bed."
They left the living room, going back to their room.
When they were inside, Karen pulled Jack's hand and led him out to the balcony.
"Kare, you don't want to make love out here do you?" Jack asked in surprise. The entire balcony was dusted with a small layer of snow.
Watching as her husband walked over to the railing and looked out at the city; Karen knelt down and picked up some snow.
Jack was about to turn to Karen when he felt something cold hit his back. "What?" he cried turning around.
Karen was standing there, giggling melting snow dripping from her hands.
"Oh yeah, think you can get me?" Jack said with a smirk. He then picked some snow up and started throwing it at Karen.
With a small shriek, Karen ran to the table and picked the snow off of there, throwing it at Jack.
They had a short snowball fight until most of the snow was gone and both of them were almost dripping wet.
"So, a tie?" Jack asked as he walked over to Karen.
"Yep, let's go and get warm," Karen said, taking his hand and pulling him into their bedroom.
"Oh Kare, you're skin is cold," Jack said as they walked over to the bed.
"Yours is too honey," Karen said. She lay back on the bed and then when Jack was above her, started to unbutton his shirt.
"Lemme make you warm first Karebear," Jack said as he started to unbutton Karen's blouse. He helped her to take off his shirt and then pushed her hands down to the mattress. When her blouse was on the floor, he started kissing her shoulders and then chest.
"Hmm, hold on a second," Karen said. She slipped out from under Jack and then went back to the headboard. "Come here poodle," she then said seductively, beckoning him with her finger.
Jack didn't waste any time going over to her. He pulled off her high heeled shoes and then started kissing his way up her leg. When he reached the edge of Karen's skirt he said to her, "Lay down for me Kare." When she was down on the mattress, he pushed the black skirt up and kissed the inside of her thighs.
"Let me help you with that Jackie," Karen murmured, reaching down to help unzip the skirt.
"No Kare, leave it," Jack said, pushing her hand away gently. When he reached her panties, he finally took the skirt off. He slid her panties off of her legs and immediately placed his mouth on her, using his tongue to stroke her most sensitive places there.
Moaning, Karen let her hands go to Jack's hair and buried her fingers there. After about fifteen minutes, she cried out and started to thrash around slightly as she reached her release.
Jack smiled and then moved back up so he was even with Karen. "You're gorgeous Kare," he said softly.
Karen took a deep breath and then started to unbutton his trousers. She pulled off Jack's boxers and was about to put her hand around his member when he stopped her.
"Not tonight Kare," Jack said. "I wanna be in you, now."
"Before you do that," Karen said. "Take off this bra for me Jackie."
Helping Karen sit up, Jack took off the black bra and immediately started to tease her nipples with his fingers and tongue.
"Oooh Jackie, hurry up and get inside me," Karen moaned, her head falling back.
Still busy with her breasts, Jack positioned his member at her entrance and then slid inside her slowly. He moved up to Karen's mouth and kissed her deeply as he began to thrust. "Do you want to make love or-"
"Fuck," Karen said breathlessly as she put her arms around his back.
Jack kissed her deeply, sucking her lower lip in his mouth and making it swollen. He then started to move faster and faster, trying to satisfy their hunger for each other.
Unlike other times they made love, they were both quiet this time, only their gasps, moans and the sound of them kissing were heard.
A half hour later, Jack buried his face in Karen's neck and licked the sweat on her skin there. "Oh, oh god," he started to moan huskily.
"Jackie, JACKIE!" Karen cried out as she started to climax around him.
"Hmm, oh Christ, KARE!" Jack yelled back as he reached his edge at the same time, climaxing inside her.
Breathing deeply, Karen raked her fingers through Jack's sweaty hair and smiled. "I love you Jackie," she said.
Jack moved his head and looked down at her. "I love you so much too Kare," he said. He lowered his lips to hers and kissed her deeply for a long time.
"I hope you're going to sleep where you are," Karen said seriously when they pulled apart.
"Anything for you Karebear," Jack said. He kissed her lips and then rested his head on her breasts. "Good night Kare."
"Sweet dreams Jack," Karen said, smiling.
They both fell asleep soon after that, not even caring that the room was growing colder and they were uncovered and naked, they were taking warmth from each other's bodies.