Two Weeks Later
Danny had finally been cleared to return to work. Maria had moved back to her home the previous week and there hadn't been any problems with his recovery so far. He was planning his first date with Maria for Friday evening. Sean came home for the weekend and called out to his father.
"Dad, I'm home, are you here?"
"Upstairs, c'mon up, tell me what you think about this suit." Sean walked into the master bedroom and stopped short.
"Wow, Dad, you look great. Are you feeling okay? Are you going out tonight?" He walked over and sat down on the bed. Danny sat alongside his son.
"Son, I'm feeling fine. I'm back to work, we're all doing fine and life right now is good. I talked to Jack earlier today and now, I'd like to talk to you, if you have time."
"You're sure nothing's wrong?" asked Sean.
"No, things are better than okay. Before we were hurt in that ambush I had planned to ask Maria to go out for dinner with me. I had taken her out for her birthday and I think that now we can move forward. I've recuperated, she and I are going to dinner and then some dancing. And not what you and your brother consider dancing but the kind I grew up with. Is this going to bother you, if she and I get closer? I need you to know that I will always love your mother and still go visit her but with both of you boys out of the house, I'm working too many hours because I don't want to come home to the empty house. I've known Maria since you boys were babies and she's been a good friend to me for a long time. So, is it okay if I do this?"
Sean stared at his father for a few moments then picked up his phone. He hit his speed dial and waited for the person to answer. He put the speaker on, "Hey bro, you owe me $20, send me the money ASAP. You should see the suit, I'm thinking it's new and looks really sharp."
Jack spoke up, "Dad, what took you so long? Were you afraid that we wouldn't like her? This is your life and you get to live as you want, as long as it's legal and doesn't embarrass the family. Does Grandpa know yet?"
"Jack, you're sure you're okay with this? And you as well, Sean?"
"Dad, for the past year we've seen signs of our dad that we remember as kids coming back to us. That was the dad who would help us out, teach us things, and smile. When Sean told me about you bringing your partner to family dinner we both knew that this could be just what you needed in your life. We still love and miss mom and always will but Maria makes you happy. Just keep us updated, especially when you set a wedding date."
"Guys, you know I love you both and can't wait to have you both at home if only for a weekend. I'll be sure to keep you updated."
"Hey, Dad, shall I send that box back to you, remember, what you gave me when I first went to college?"
"No, I'll get my own when I need it. We're not rushing into anything but we both want to be sure. We'll talk again soon, guys. I need to get going so I won't be late to pick up my date. Thanks, bye." Sean disconnected the call. "Thanks, Sean. This means a lot to me. Your mom did a great job raising you and your brother."
"You helped, Dad. You taught us right and wrong as well as the Reagan way. We've both paid attention to the kind of people who are welcomed into the family and someday Jack and I will bring someone home to family dinner. Not for a while yet, but someday. Thanks for including us in your plans. We're both really happy for you and Maria. She's a great person and easy to talk to about things."
Danny looked at his son. "What do you mean?"
"Well, last year I had some questions that if mom were here I'd have asked her but I asked Maria and after telling me that I needed to check with you, but what she told me was exactly what you said later. I like talking to her, especially about girls and dating."
Danny stood up and when Sean did the same he hugged his son. Thanks, I'll try not to be home too late. G'night kid."
"Night dad, don't keep her out too late on your first date. And make sure you treat her mother really nice. That's her baby girl, you know…"
"Wise guy. Go raid the fridge, see you later."
As Danny walked down the stairs and out to his car he thought about how his life had changed since that day in May so long ago. He stopped and picked up some flowers and drove to his destination. Ringing the doorbell, he remembered the incident with the man who died on her front lawn. The door opened and Maria welcomed her guest. She was clothed in a dress that was fitted on the top but loose and flowing especially around her legs and hips. Danny thought, "We're definitely going dancing tonight." They had danced together at the last Reagan wedding and spent most of the evening with each other either chatting with friends or showing off their dance skills. He stepped inside, greeted his date and presented the flowers. She took the bouquet and beckoned him to follow her. She put the flowers in some water and placed the vase on a table.
"I hope this dress is suitable for what you have planned for tonight," she said and then twirled around for him.
"Absolutely perfect. You are gorgeous. Sean came home for the weekend and I told him about this and us. After I got done with telling him he called Jack and said that Jack lost the bet and owes Sean $20. The bet was how long it would take for me to realize what I feel for you and to finally get my head out of the sand and move forward. Jack thought it would take at least another year but both boys are thrilled for us. Sean said he's been talking to you?"
"Yeah, a few times, he needed a woman's advice and Aunt Erin was busy. A long time ago I gave the boys my cell in case they needed you or if they wanted to be sure you were okay. I didn't tell you because I told both of them that if they were to tell me something that you needed to know I would tell you and that I wouldn't hide anything from you. They're wonderful young men and you should be proud of them. Okay?"
"I'm glad you did that, I know I haven't been the greatest parent these last few years and your help is appreciated. Thank you."
"I'm all ready, I just need to get my wrap. Be right back." Maria headed into her bedroom returning moments later. Danny took the wrap and placed it on her shoulders. She picked up a bag from the coffee table and headed towards the door. She handed Danny her keys to lock the door before they walked to the car. After seating her, he got into his car and started it up.
"We have reservations at Peter Gallagher's, I hope that will be okay?"
"You know me so well, Danny. I love a great steak." Danny drove carefully, sneaking peeks at her as often as he could. They stopped at the valet spot and Danny walked around to her door. The valet had opened the door but Danny offered his hand to Maria to assist her exiting the vehicle. He took the parking stub from the valet and offered Maria his arm as they walked into the restaurant.
The meal was fabulous from beginning to end. They had a nice table for two somewhat secluded but with a view of almost the entire place. Danny had called ahead and one of his favorite red wines had been opened and was ready for them. After perusing the menu they decided on sharing an order of the spicy tuna poke and Caesar salad made at the table. Danny had the New York sirloin while Maria had the filet mignon. They also shared Lyonnaise potatoes, broccoli and asparagus. They decided to skip dessert and proceeded to Fine and Rare, a place known for the quality of their food, drink, music and romantic atmosphere. Once inside, they were shown to a table off to the side that had the benefit of a small dance floor away from the crowd. After a few drinks and several dances they switched to Bourbon Barrel aged coffee and shared a dessert called Fine and Rare Sphere, a decadent selection featuring chocolate ganache, vanilla ice cream cake, strawberry sauce, whipped cream, and hazelnut sauce. They shared the dish and eagerly fed each other. The next musical selection was exactly what Danny wanted - something nice and slow. He held out his hand and she eagerly accepted. Danny held her close, breathing in her scent. After a few moments he leaned toward her and kissed her very softly, "you had a bit of chocolate there, I hope you don't mind." He kissed her again. She smiled, appreciating all the details of their first date. "This has been the most incredible day of my life."
"You deserve to be treated like this. You're a wonderful person, the best friend I've ever had and," he leaned in closer to whisper in her ear, "the woman I want to make love to for the rest of my life." She looked at him in surprise. "But first, I want to romance you as you deserve. I want to show you just how much you mean to me. I want to take you for picnic lunches, for walks in the park, to silly and sappy movies. I want to bring you to family dinner but I'm not ready to share you with the family. I've asked the boys not to say anything yet. I want this to be just between us right now. But soon, very soon I will ask you a big question and I will show you just how much you mean to me."
"Danny, that sounds wonderful but I think we should be getting the check and heading home. In case you haven't noticed the music has stopped and the lights are really bright."
"I still hear music. I could do this all night with you. But, you're right, it's time to head out." He led her back to the table and handed his credit card to the waiter. The man returned almost immediately and Danny signed the receipt and they headed out the door and back to the car. On the way, he noticed an All-Night diner and pulled in. They walked in and took a booth towards the back. They ordered coffee and chatted as if they hadn't known each other for years. While Maria was fine with dinner every Sunday with the in-laws, she had never been as dedicated to attending church every week. She didn't mind cooking and cleaning but wanted to share the household chores between them. Even though Danny hadn't done that in the past he was willing to try that. They would each write a list of things to be done to keep a home running that was safe, clean and comfortable and work together. They discussed their favorite sports and teams. They also touched on what happens when/if they decide to retire. Children, if they should be so blessed, would be welcomed as a gift from God. Danny had always wanted to have a daughter but if that did not happen, they would still have each other. They discussed where they should live, should they keep Danny's current home or try to find something else. Maria's condo was only a one bedroom and if she did become pregnant they would have to move. Danny looked up and noticed that the sun was rising. He pointed that out to her and they decided to end their first date. They paid their bill, returned to their vehicle and drove back to Maria's home. He helped her out of the car and they walked up to the front door. Maria handed him her key, he opened the door and allowed her to enter. She walked inside but Danny stayed on her stoop. She turned and looked at him.
"Thank you for the wonderful evening, Maria. I can't wait to take you out again. I hope that you won't be disappointed but I don't want to just have sex, I want to make love to you. I promise, waiting will be worth it." He reached out to hold her hands. "I would like to kiss you, may I?"
"Of course." She stepped closer to him and leaned down and softly touched her lips to his. The feeling was electric and she deepened the kiss. Danny pulled her closer and kissed her as long as he could. "Wow, I don't think I've ever… May I do that again, please?" He nodded yes and the result was the same. "When will I see you again?"
"Very soon. Sleep well, my love. I'll call you later today. Get some rest." He kissed her hand just like a knight from the realm. After one, long, last look Danny walked back to his car. When he looked back she was still there in the doorway. He waved good night and entered his car waving as he drove off.
Driving home he thought about the things he wanted to do on their dates. He could take her to the karaoke place and sing a song just for her. They could go roller skating in one of the city parks. Maria could show him her favorite places in the city and he could show her all the places he remembered from his childhood.
For the next six months Danny showed Maria his favorite parts of the city. They ate in places he remembered and she introduced him to restaurantes she loved growing up. He showed her places in the city she never knew existed. They found theaters playing old movies from their younger days and spent every Sunday in church. Maria found her religious documents and she had been baptized, received her first Holy Communion and been confirmed but she still was uncertain about the church and was studying with the Monsignor every Sunday after Mass. Finally, Danny had proposed to Maria and she promptly accepted. They decided not to have a long engagement but would get married as soon as possible. Once Danny had told his father about the upcoming wedding the family planned for their response to the occasion.
Maria had just been subjected to the traditional 'Reagan Family' hazing but rather than get upset she agreed with every suggestion. Danny just stared at her not understanding that she had no intention of following their ideas regarding a place for the wedding, the reception and honeymoon. She had even come prepared with a notepad and pen to record everything. When they were finished she complimented them on their suggestions and then asked who was writing out the check. If they really wanted to be married by next month, she would need to secure the church, a reception venue, dresses and tuxes first thing tomorrow. As everyone stumbled over their excuses, Maria acknowledged each one.
"Okay, there's no way Danny and I can afford what has been suggested so we're just going to meet with the Monsignor and Jack and Sean will be the two required witnesses. It will happen next Saturday so we'll miss dinner next week. We're taking the boys back to their schools after the ceremony and then we'll be driving down to a private place in Delaware and the two of us will enjoy some time together. We'll have the boys take some pictures of the ceremony and send them to the family after it's all done." Everyone except Danny and Sean looked stunned. They looked at each other and couldn't believe what they had just been told. It took Jamie almost two minutes to finally speak up.
"But Danny is the son of the police commissioner, people will be expecting an invitation…" said Jamie.
"And I have two boys in college," said Danny. "I can't afford something like your wedding. Maria's mother is living on a very fixed income and doesn't have the money to help with those expenses, either," said Danny. "We've talked about it and this makes the most sense for us right now. And we don't want to wait." He reached over and picked up Maria's hand and kissed it. "And, before you ask my fiancée why she doesn't have an engagement ring she doesn't want one. She wants a plain, gold band as her wedding ring and I will have one that matches hers. Now, any more questions?"
Henry and Frank looked at each other. Frank nodded for Henry to proceed. "Danny, Maria, we can understand the reasons you've stated. And, we applaud that you don't want to get into debt at the start of your married life together . Would you consider a luncheon or dinner for no more than fifty people? It would be our gift to you from Frank and me. The church has a small chapel that would hold about that number and then we could head to a nearby restaurant. No band, maybe some soft music in the background and it would just be a larger version of our family dinner."
They looked at each other. "If we use the chapel, we're going to need some flowers," said Maria.
"Jack and I would like to take care of that for you, as our wedding gift," said Erin.
"Danny, what do you think?" asked Maria.
"If they want to do this at least we won't get stuck with four coffee pots and more pots and pans than we have space for. As long as you're okay with it I'm fine. This is our special day and I want it to be perfect for you."
"All I need is to have you by my side, anything else will just make it more special. And my mother will be pleased. Erin, if Jack is going to be there you might want to keep him close to you or my sister might try to take him. She's dying to find a boyfriend…" Laughter erupted around the table. Frank pulled out his cell phone and called Walter. They discussed moving the date depending on the restaurant but the wedding would be in the next four weeks. Henry would arrange the meal location, Erin would take Maria to the florist to pick out her flowers and then pick up Carmen Baez to go dress shopping. Maria did not want the traditional bridal gown but wanted something more like a simple cocktail dress in a light pink color covered in lace. The men would wear black suits. Danny, Sean and Jack would wear ties in the same pink shade as the bride's dress. The guest list would include:
Carmen and Ana Baez, Frank and Henry Reagan, Erin Reagan and Jack Boyle, Jamie and Eddie Reagan, Joe Hill and his date, Nicky, Jack and Sean Reagan and their dates, Monsignor Donahue, Jill Camargo, Sid, Garret and Abigail and their partners as well as two couples who were friends of Maria and her family.
