Chapter ONE - October 1988

Phillip King looked at himself in the mirror. He was wearing a dark navy blue suit and his tie was a nice mix of different shades of pink. His girlfriend, Annie, had picked it out for him as it matched her bridesmaids dress. He couldn't wait to see Annie in just a few minutes as she was in the master bedroom getting his mother ready for her wedding to Lee Stetson. Phillip couldn't have been happier about the fact that his mom was finally marrying Lee. In the past year or so, Lee had become more of a dad to him than his own father. Joe King had remarried himself and was now the father to twins, Jacob and Caroline. He knew that his dad would always be there for him, but Joe was very much wrapped up in his new family. Lee Stetson...he was another story. Lee just seemed to know what Phillip was feeling or going through at any given moment. They both had a love of cars, sports and the military. Lee just seemed to gravitate to Phillip more so than he did with Jamie, but Phillip knew that his brother loved Lee just as much as he did. Lee made his mom happy and that's all the boys ever wanted.

Jamie King, Phillips' younger brother, walked into the bedroom. He was also dressed in a navy blue suit with a tie that was like Phillips'. In the past few months, Jamie started getting taller and more confident in himself. Phillip was starting to treat him as a friend as opposed to the bratty little brother he was. Annie had a lot to do with that. She was such a good influence on him, as his family pointed out several times. He loved her. He knew that. Their parents all said it was just a high school crush, but both Phillip and Annie knew that their love was real. They spent the entire summer together hanging out, going swimming, watching movies and having game nights...whatever they could fit in a day. Phillip was also invited to tag along with the Hamilton's as they went to visit family in Charleston, South Carolina, where Annie was from. He was able to spend a week getting to know her family and seeing all of the historical sites in Charleston. Lee was particularly jealous of Phillip since he was able to go see all of the Civil War sites in Charleston and the surrounding area. Annie's dad, Tom, was the resident tour guide. While history wasn't really Phillips' favorite subject in school, Mr. Hamilton seemed to have a way to make history come alive when he would tell his stories.

"Hey Bozo...Lee wants you. You better go down and see him. He said something about a man to man talk. I have no idea why he wants to talk to you." Jamie smirked as he spoke to Phillip. He put his hand on the item in his pocket and patted it. He noticed his brother wasn't paying attention to him." Hello...Phillip? Are you listening to me?!"

Phillip looked at his little brother with a blank face. He really wasn't paying attention to him.

" What doofus?"

" I said that Lee wants to talk to you, he's in the den... pacing."

Phillip laughed and shoved his brother gently as he walked out the door. He carefully went down the stairs so as not to knock off the garland of flowers that draped the staircase. His grandmother would have his hide if anything happened to the flowers. Most of the summer, Dotty West planned every minute detail of Lee and Amanda's backyard wedding. She wanted everything to be perfect for her daughter and Lee. Phillip was glad he was gone most of the summer because he didn't want to listen to Dotty argue with Amanda and Lee regarding their October wedding. Amanda just said she liked the season, but Phillip knew that it was in October that his mom and Lee met for the first time. Since becoming closer to his soon to be stepdad, Phillip learned that Lee was very romantic when it came to his mom. He remembered his first date with Annie for their Valentines Day Dance last year Lee ordered a corsage for Annie so Phillip could give it to her. Lee had picked out red roses and a white daisy. Lee told him that those flowers were special to Amanda and he took a chance that Annie liked them too. Of course Annie loved them. And when it came to the wedding date, Lee was adamant about October. He told Phillip that his life started when he met Amanda and that was in October. So Dotty threw her arms in the air and planned a simple fall wedding in their backyard.

Phillip came downstairs and noticed that there were people starting to gather in the backyard and there was Lee, pacing in the den looking out the French door curtains every now and then.

"Hey Pops, what's wrong?"

Lee Stetson looked at his stepson. Stepson... Lee thought to himself. He couldn't believe in just a few minutes he would actually be able to call both Phillip and Jamie that. Lee and Amanda had secretly married in February of last year, but due to the nature of their jobs as federal agents they felt the family was safer not knowing. Lee and Amanda were tired of hiding their relationship and in February came out as engaged to not only her family, but their job as well. Lee was now pacing in the den of his new home and waiting for Amanda. He smiled at his stepson." You are looking good, Chief!"

Phillip laughed and said " Thanks Pops. You do too. Total eleven like Grandma says…"

Lee rolled his eyes at Phillips' comment regarding what his mother in law thought of him. Lee cleared his throat and asked for Phillip to sit down.

"OK...I already had a talk with Jamie and now it's your turn. I just wanted you to know….well...understand that I love your mother very much. I will do everything to keep her safe and to make her happy. I am really nervous about being your stepdad and I hope you will cut me some slack every now and then when I mess up. For the first time in my life, I am really part of a family and I want to be a good dad to you boys." Lee reached over to pick up a box and he handed it to Phillip. " This was my fathers, I wanted you to have it. You know...kind of pass it down from Father and Son...because that's what I feel that we are."

Phillip took the box from Lee and opened it up. Inside was a beautiful old gold watch with a leather band. It was rectangle shaped and had tiny numbers on it. On the face of the watch was the name STETSON embossed on it. Phillip took it out and looked at it.

"Ahh Pops! This is really cool! This was your dads?! Wow, I can't thank you enough for this! Are you sure?" Lee nodded and smiled at his stepson. " Check out the back. Your mother and I had it engraved."

Phillip turned the watch over and noticed at first the initials MDS and then underneath that he saw "Our son, Phillip" and it also had the date of the wedding. Phillip looked at Lee and stood up. He walked over to the groom and gave him a big hug. Lee held back tears as Phillip hugged him. "Lee, you will always be my dad. Know that. I mean it. I can't thank you enough for coming into our lives and most of all making Mom very happy." Lee hugged the young man a bit tighter and said thank you. Phillip handed Lee the watch and stretched his arm out so that Lee could put the watch on Phillips wrist. They shook hands and Phillip punched Lee in the shoulder to help lighten the mood,

"Thanks….Dad."

Dotty West stood on the landing of the stairs and watched the exchange between the two men. She dabbed her eyes so she wouldn't mess up her makeup. It was such a joy seeing her grandsons creating a bond with the man her daughter chose to have a life with. Lee Stetson was a very special man. Dotty smiled and thought that they all were very lucky.

********* " Amanda, come on! Everyone's gonna go home!" Lee called from the bottom of the stairs. He heard the bedroom door open and his co worker Francine Desmond came down the stairs.

" Good grief Lee, we are coming." Francine was wearing a beautiful rose colored silk strapless dress with a flowing skirt. Her blond hair was curled in a nice style at her shoulders. She was carrying a bouquet of lavender roses, white daisies and greenery. Lee smiled and said " Wow" as she descended the stairs. Francine laughed " Thank you Lee. Wait till you see your bride?! You'd never know that she was just a housewife!" her eyes twinkled as she got one more quip in regarding Amanda. Lee glared at her but then smiled at her when he realized she was teasing him. She shooed him and made him go outside where their boss, Billy Melrose, was standing with the minister and Dotty.

Dotty West watched as Lee was ushered out to the backyard and she made eye contact with her daughter's friend, Francine. Dotty remembered the woman from the days when Amanda had an animal and plant sitting business...she remembered the woman had some sort of exotic animal, but couldn't place what kind. She motioned to Billy Melrose that it was time for the ceremony to start. He smiled and nodded. Dotty wasn't sure why Lee was such good friends with the federal agent that made her so mad when Amanda and Lee were involved with that security mess. But she dismissed her thoughts and smiled at Lee as he took her arm and escorted her to the front of the gazebo where her chair was waiting. Lee placed a sweet kiss on Dotty's cheek and he took his place next to the minister underneath the gazebo. The violin player started playing and the French doors opened.

The gazebo and backyard had been transformed into a beautiful garden oasis. Dotty and her garden club went crazy with the flowers and decorations. There were lavender and pink roses, white daisies and greenery over anything that would stand still. There was a white runner down the center of the chairs that were placed in front of the gazebo and there were purple mums lining the aisle as well as around the gazebo. Dotty wanted everything to be perfect for her daughter and Lee. She was so happy when they finally announced their engagement and she was thrilled to plan this wedding for them.

Phillip stood on one side of the French doors and his brother was on the other side. They opened the door and Marie Hamilton, Annie's mother, came out first. She was in a pale pink and lavender flower print dress. It was off the shoulder and had a tiny waist with a full tea length skirt. She had pink and lavender flowers in her dark brown hair that was piled on top of her head. She was carrying a bouquet similar to Francine's, just a smaller version of it. Jamie King stepped forward and took Mrs. Hamilton's arm and walked her down the aisle. She stood on the opposite side of the minister while Jamie walked back to the French doors to wait for his mom.

Next came Annie Hamilton, Phillip's girlfriend. Phillip took a minute before he turned around and looked at Annie. He wanted to be surprised. Annie stood in the doorway and smiled at the crowd. She was wearing a dress just like her mothers, but Annie's had spaghetti straps, another tiny waist to fit Annie's figure and a knee length layered full skirt. Her strawberry blond hair was partially pinned up with some flowers. She also had a bouquet just like her mothers. Phillip turned to look at Annie and once again she took his breath away. Lee noticed his stepson when he saw Annie and chuckled to himself. Phillip reached out his arm and Annie gently took it. He whispered "Red, you are stunning. It's not fair to my mom! Ready to walk with me?"

Annie smiled and said " Thanks King...you look very handsome. Just wait till you see your mom! And you know I will walk with you ….always!"

They walked down the aisle and as Phillip let go of Annie, he kissed her cheek. She then went to stand by her mom. Lee winked at the young man as he went back to the doors. Next to come outside was Francine, the maid of honor. She walked alone down the aisle and was beaming as she looked at her friend. Lee Stetson and Amanda King...I would never have thought. Talk about generosity and stamina! I don't know who they were kidding. Trying to hide their relationship for so long. Alas, I do have to say that it was fate that brought them together, they are perfect for one another. The great Scarecrow was tamed by Mrs. King! I am really happy for both of them...Francine thought as she caught sight of Lee smiling at her. He winked at her as she took her place next to Annie and then everyone stood up to wait for the bride.

CHAPTER TWO - October 1988

Amanda King took one last look at herself in the mirror before walking down the stairs. I really hope Lee likes this dress...more importantly I hope he remembers this dress! She giggled to herself. She was wearing a beautiful wedding gown with long lace sleeves with a lace bodice and full tulle skirt with lace at the bottom. With the help of Francine, Amanda was able to retrieve the dress from the Agency wardrobe and they altered it to just have a full skirt. Francine was confused as to why Amanda wanted to wear that particular dress for her wedding to Lee Stetson, but after a fifteen minute rant about when and where she wore the dress, Francine was more than willing to help her friend obtain the dress. Years before, while Lee and Amanda were on a case they had to have a wedding and Amanda was wearing the dress from that ceremony. She wanted to use the dress to show Lee how far they have come together...not only as partners, but as a couple as well. She hoped Lee would recognize it.

Amanda picked up her bouquet of all white flowers and stood at the closed French doors. She watched through the curtains as her sons escorted Marie and Annie to the altar. She smiled proudly as she yet again was reminded that her two little boys weren't so little anymore. Amanda took a deep breath and let it out slowly. She made sure her hair wasn't on her neck; the white flowers in her hair were still okay. She heard the music change to " Here Comes the Bride" and the doors opened. Amanda stepped out and reached for the welcoming arms of her two sons. The crowd was standing and it was hard for Amanda to see the altar. Even with Lee being over 6 ft tall it was almost impossible to see his face until she came to the aisle.

Lee Stetson took a deep breath as the French doors opened and his wife stepped out. He could barely see the top of her head because of all of the guests. He waited patiently as Amanda and the boys made it to the aisle. He looked down at his feet in anticipation. Suddenly he had a nudge from his best man, Billy. " Lee, look up son"

Lee looked up and there she was. My Amanda. Standing there with our boys. She looks like an angel! She wore an actual wedding dress...for me. I just thought she would wear that suit she had from our secret wedding. God, she is so beautiful. That dress was made for her….wait...that dress?! What is it about that dress? Oh MY GOSH. She didn't. Our San Angelo wedding...

Lee's thoughts were racing as he realized what dress his bride was wearing. He beamed with all his dimples showing and his eyes were only for her. Amanda smiled back at Lee and acknowledged his smile. He remembered… Oh sweetheart. I am so glad he remembered. He's so handsome! Coming clean about our relationship was the best choice. We can all now do this together. As a family. She thought to herself as she noticed Lee getting teary eyed. The boys and Amanda reached the altar and each of them kissed Amanda on the cheek, each shook Lee's hand and then took their places next to Billy. Lee stepped closer to Amanda and they were now in front of the minister. Lee leaned closer to her and whispered " Mrs. Stetson, you are beautiful!" Amanda reached over and caressed Lee's cheek and said "Thank you. I love you"

The minister welcomed everyone and began the ceremony. Lee and Amanda held hands and never took their eyes off one another. Phillip glanced over towards Annie and he caught her looking at him. He smiled at her and started thinking as he listened to Lee recite his vows. Maybe one day this will be Annie and I. I certainly hope so...if I have anything to do with it. Phillip thought. He looked away from Annie and listened to Lee.

" I Lee, take thee Amanda, to be my lawfully wedded wife. To have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness or in health, to love and to cherish….for all the days of our lives." Lee beamed at his wife and she smiled tenderly back at him. She squeezed Lee's hand a bit tighter and said " I Amanda, take Lee to be my lawfully wedded husband. To have and to hold from this day forward, For better or for worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish...for all the days of our lives."

The minister asked for the rings and Billy happily handed them both to him. He said a small prayer for the bride and groom and handed Lee the ring that over a year ago Lee first placed on Amanda's finger.

" I give you this ring, in token and pledge, of my constant faith and devotion" Lee slipped the ring on and whispered so only Amanda could hear him " Now it will never come off" Amanda smiled at Lee and then took his ring and placed it on his finger.

" I give you this ring, in token and pledge, of my constant faith and devotion." Lee squeezed her hand.

Dotty watched as her daughter and new son in law exchanged their vows. She thought about how adamant they were about so many aspects of this wedding...their vows being one of them. They wanted these simple vows and they would say them without any prompts from the minister. Dotty smiled and took her handkerchief to dab her eyes as a happy tear fell down her cheek. She glanced over at her grandsons, Jamie and Phillip. Jamie had a big grin on his face and seemed pleased that his mother and Lee were finally getting married. Dotty suspected that Jamie's dad had a lot to do with Jamie's turn around regarding Lee. After a long talk with his dad, Jamie came to appreciate Lee and enjoyed seeing his mother so happy. Before she saw the scene between Lee and Phillip she witnessed the one between Lee and Jamie. Lee had also given Jamie a present. Lee gave Jamie his grandfather's pocket watch that was also engraved with "Our son, Jamie". Lee was giving his boys a piece of him. Dotty dabbed her eyes once again as she shifted her eyes to her other grandson, Phillip.

Phillip's eyes were on his girlfriend, Annie. Dotty noticed that they never waivered. He has it bad for her. I suspect we may see another wedding sometime in the future. Dotty giggled to herself. Phillip was becoming a very handsome young man. He was already taller than Amanda and he had those classic good looks with his sandy brown hair and dark blue eyes. He was a perfect blend of both Amanda and Joe. Jamie was too. Dotty's thoughts then branched off thinking that maybe Lee and Amanda would have a baby! How wonderful would that be! Oh how exciting. Maybe they would even have a girl!"

Dotty was brought back to the wedding by hearing the minister declare Lee and Amanda husband and wife. Lee reached over and kissed his new bride passionately and the crowd erupted in applause. Lee and Amanda turned to the group and smiled. They walked back down the aisle, followed by Billy and Francine, Phillip and Annie and then Jamie and Marie.

Later on during the reception, Phillip took Annie by the hand and led her out to the makeshift dance floor. He pulled her into his arms and whispered " Red, you look beautiful. I can't wait to see you on our wedding day!" Annie looked at Phillip " Our wedding day, King? So you want to marry me one day, huh? Is that what you are telling me?" Annie smirked at him. She loved teasing him whenever she had the chance to. Phillip nervously cleared his throat and said, " Well yeah Annie. ...don't you think about it...maybe one day…." He stuttered and wasn't sure of himself at that moment. Annie leaned up and kissed him softly on his lips. " I told you I'd walk with you anywhere King. And I mean it." Phillip hugged Annie. He looked back at her and took a deep breath…" Annie, I love you" Annie had tears in her eyes as she heard Phillip declare his love to her. She was so happy at that moment. " I love you too Phillip!" Phillip leaned towards Annie and gave her a soft kiss. He was interrupted by his mother and new step dad as they casually bumped into the young couple as they were dancing.

Lee looked over at the young couple and winked. They both blushed and Phillip took Annie's hand and led her off the dance floor. He smiled at his wife and whispered to her. " Now Amanda, they are almost sixteen. It's young love. Come on. Let him live a bit."

Amanda sighed and shook her head. " Lee Stetson. Did you not just see your son kissing his girlfriend on the dance floor? Did you miss that?" Amanda raised her eyebrows at Lee and smiled. Lee looked at his wife and gave her the old Stetson fool proof dimpled smile. OOOH! Giving me the dimples, huh Scarecrow. You know I can't resist them. Ugh. I hate it when he's right. Phillip isn't a little boy anymore. She thought to herself. Amanda then sighed and said, " You are right. He is growing up and Annie is really wonderful. I can't deny that."

" Besides, you never know. They may make it and be high school sweethearts. How romantic would that be?"

Amanda Stetson looked at her husband " Look at you Stetson! When did you become such a romantic sap?"

Lee pulled her in for a sweet kiss and said " The day I realized I loved you. And you are one to talk Mrs. Stetson….um...this dress? Think I wouldn't recognize it?"

Amanda laughed and returned her husband's kiss. " There wasn't another dress out there that I wanted to wear. We have a past that even my family isn't aware of but this helped bring that life into this one...just a bit."

Lee nodded. " I know. Maybe one day we can come clean with what we really do ..but at least everyone knows how we feel and we can finally be Mr. and Mrs Stetson! That's a start, right?

Amanda smiled at her husband and kissed him " You are so right Mr. Stetson! I love you!"

CHAPTER THREE - April 1989

Phillip King walked into his house on a blustery April day. It was unseasonably chilly for April but in Virginia the weather could be completely unpredictable. He was late coming home from baseball practice and he was afraid he would get a stern lecture from his parents or grandmother. The newly sixteen year old dumped his bags by the stairs and launched himself into the kitchen. There was no one there. That's odd, Philip thought to himself. Someone was always home in the King/Stetson home. He went over to the bulletin board and saw that there wasn't a note or anything. What is going on? He wondered as he made himself a quick sandwich and glass of milk. He plopped himself on the couch and munched on his sandwich when the phone rang.

"Hello Stetson/King residence"

"Phillip! Oh you are home!" It was Annie on the other end. She sounded very upset.

" Hey honey...what's up? Baseball practice went late and I walked home. Just walked in the door. Is everything all right?"

"Phillip, um...Lee and I are on our way to come get you. Everyone is at the hospital."

Phillip's heart sank at that moment. " Annie, it's not …..mom...is it." Thinking back to when his mother was accidentally shot while on vacation in California.

" Oh NO! Phillip, your mom is okay. I promise. I will let Lee talk to you. I will see you soon. I love you."

Ok...I love you." Phillip hung up the phone and went upstairs to change his clothes. His mind was racing as he thought that something wasn't right but what? Was it grandma? Jamie? He was racking his brain with the possibilities when he heard Lee and Annie come into the house.

" Phillip, are you here, son?" Lee called out to him.

Phillip bounced down the stairs and into the den where his girlfriend and step father now stood. He could tell Annie had been crying. Something was definitely going on.

Hey Pops...what's going on? Annie sounded serious on the phone."

Lee stood in front of his stepson sighed. I have to do this for Amanda. I was so glad I was with her when she was given the news…. She fainted for Pete's sake and they are keeping her for observation! This is gonna be so hard to tell Phillip. But I have to tell him …Come on Stetson...you can do this!" Lee thought to himself as he gave his stepson a weak smile.

"Phillip….why don't you sit down. I have something to tell you and it's not going to be good news."

Phillip started to say something but he quickly stopped himself and allowed Lee to continue talking. Lee Stetson looked solemnly at his step son. " Well, there is no easy way to say this so I am just going to do it. Um...your dad...he was in court this morning and….well.." Lee stopped and sat down next to Phillip. Annie sat on the other side of him and she took his hand. She was crying again. Lee continued…" Phillip, he had a heart attack in the middle of court today….he was rushed to the hospital and… well son,...he didn't make it. Your dad is gone. I am so sorry.``

Phillip King felt the sting of Lee's words as he told him that his father was gone. He looked at Lee and tears started welling up in his eyes. Lee's heart was breaking for his stepson and he just nodded in reassurance as Phillip stared at him. Phillip then turned to Annie and buried himself in her arms and began sobbing. Lee put his hand on Phillips' shoulder and whispered " Let it out son. It's ok. I understand."

Annie held Phillip as tight as she could and allowed her boyfriend to just cry. She knew she had to be there for him and was going to be strong for the both of them.

After a few minutes of crying, Phillip sat up and wiped his eyes. He looked at Annie and hugged her once more and said " Thank you for being here. I need you." Annie nodded, put her hands on his face and said " I am not leaving your side, King. Not ever." Phillip walked over to where Lee was standing by the French doors and he hugged his step father. Lee in turn hugged Phillip back and tried his best to console him. " I am here for you, Chief. I mean that. For whatever you or Jamie need. I am here."

"Where's mom? And Grandma?" Phillip asked.

Annie walked over to both men and took Phillips hand " They are at the hospital. When your mom was told about your dad she ….um...well …"

Lee interjected " Your mom fainted, Phillip. She's ok. Just being observed at the moment. Your grandmother is with Carrie and the babies. She's in shock right now and will need all of us. Do you want to head over to the hospital.?"

Phillip shook his head. "Would it be ok if I just stayed here. I really don't want to be around anyone….except you or Annie...if that's ok."

Lee Stetson looked at his stepson and nodded. He knew that Phillip needed to process this on his own. Jamie would be right there by Amanda, but Phillip was a lot like him. A loner that only allowed a few select people in. Lee hugged Phillip once again and reassured him that he was there for whatever he needed. Lee was heading back to the hospital to check on Amanda, Jamie and Dotty. Lee mentioned to Annie to call her parents and let them know that she was at the King home. Annie walked over to the kitchen phone and dialed her number

" Hamilton residence"

" Hey Momma," Annie said quietly. She watched as Phillip and Lee shared a moment. " It's me. Mr. Stetson wanted me to call you and let you know that I am over at their house. We just had to tell Phillip about his dad. Oh Momma…..I am so sad for him!"

Marie Hamilton could hear the sadness in her daughter's voice. " Oh sugar, is he ok? Would you like your Poppa to come over and keep ya'll company? He does adore Phillip and it may make Lee feel better having one of us there."

Annie nodded and said "Let me ask and see...hold on Momma" She glanced over at Lee and said " Mr. Stetson, would it be ok if my dad came over and kept us company. Momma said she would make us dinner and have Poppa bring it over?"

Lee looked over at Phillip and he barely nodded yes. " Tell Tom that would be great! Thank you."

Annie went back to her conversation with her mother and then after a few more minutes hung up the phone. She came over to the couch and sat next to Phillip. He immediately took her hand. A small smile creeped on her face as she looked at Lee.

Lee stood up and said " Ok. I am going to head back to the hospital and check on your mom. Tom should be here soon. I can trust you not to burn the house down?" Annie blushed and Phillip snickered. " Yeah, Dad. We will be fine. Tell mom that I love her and I will see her soon."

Lee's heart gave a tug as he heard Phillip call him Dad. Lee motioned for Annie to walk him to the door. She let go of Phillips' hand and said " Be right back, King" He shrugged. Annie and Lee walked to the front door. Lee turned to Annie and put his hands on her shoulders. He looked right at her with his warm hazel green eyes.

"Anne Marie, honey….are you sure you can handle him. He's in shock right now and I don't know what he may do."

Annie smiled at Lee and said "Mr. Stetson, I got this. I am his best friend in the whole world. I know him better than he knows himself. We will be fine...and my Poppa will be here in a little while. I promise. It's gonna be ok."

Lee took the girl into his arms and gave her a hug. " Anne Marie, I certainly hope so. I am glad Phillip has you to lean on. If you need anything, call the hospital. Okay?"

Annie wiped a tear from her eyes and nodded. She watched as Lee walked out to his car and she took a deep breath. Somehow we have to get through this. I have to be there for Phillip. He's gonna need me to be strong. Annie thought to herself as she closed the door.

CHAPTER FOUR - April 1989

Figures today would be cloudy and cold. Phillip thought to himself. He looked out over the cemetery and noticed how peaceful the place felt. He looked down at his dress shoes and sniffed at himself. Dad always told us to polish these damn things. I just don't see the point when we are walking around in the grass. Phillips' mind was wandering about everything and anything other than the reason they were there. His fathers funeral. Joe King was gone. He still didn't want to believe it. Just last year he almost lost his mother in a horrible shooting accident and now he really had lost his father. It just didn't seem real. The past few days everyone had been in and out of his house, his dad's house. It was very draining. He wanted this to be over. His girlfriend, Annie, noticed that he was looking around and not paying attention to the minister. She squeezed his hand and he glanced over at her. He had tears in his eyes and smiled weakly at her. She reached over with her other hand and rubbed his arm and patted his hand. Please let this be over soon he kept thinking.

Amanda Stetson took a deep breath and wiped a tear away. She looked at the casket in front of her and was still in denial. Joe. He was really gone. How could this have happened? Questions just kept popping in Amanda's head over and over again. She heard little Jacob King, Joe's one year old son with his new wife, Carrie, whimpering in his grandmother's arms. His sister Caroline was sound asleep in Joe's sister's arms. Those babies will never know their Dad. Amanda thought to herself. How will they ever know what a great man he was and such a wonderful friend. He was just getting to know the boys and actually be a father to the babies. Poor Carrie. Amanda took another deep breath and took in the cool air. The tears came again and she cried for her boys, for Carrie, for those babies and for herself. Sensing her sobs, Lee wrapped his arms around her and gave her a quick squeeze and kissed her forehead.

Lee Stetson stood next to his wife and held her in his arms. She was barely able to stand. This was really tough on her. Lee knew that Amanda loved him with all of her heart but she shared something with Joe that was different. Plus they had the boys. Lee himself was devastated when he heard that Joe had died. This wasn't how it was supposed to be. He thought. We were supposed to be a family together. I have to be there for Amanda and the boys. They are my sons now. I promise you Joe, I will be a great dad to them. I owe you that. Lee's thoughts were forgotten when he felt his wife sobbing. He stood taller and squeezed her tightly against him. He leaned over and kissed her forehead.

Jamie King sat next to his brother and his girlfriend. He could hear his mother crying and his grandmother sniffing every now and then. His baby brother, Jacob was fussing. Jamie knew he wanted to get down and run around. He was so little and he didn't understand what they were doing. Hell, I don't even know what I am doing. This is my dad, and he's gone. Really gone. Should I feel something other than kind of empty? I love my dad, but he hasn't been there much in my life. I don't remember him when I was little. I just remember him coming back maybe two years ago or so. Jamie shifted in his seat and Phillip looked at him. They locked eyes and Jamie knew at that moment that his older brother was feeling the same feelings he was. At that moment they became more than brothers...they became friends. Jamie nodded to Phillip and then looked up at the minister. He knew they were gonna be okay.

Annie Hamilton sat next to her boyfriend and his brother. She held Phillips hand and every now and then dabbed a tear from her eyes. She didn't want to break down in front of Phillip, she had to be strong for him. He was so quiet and Annie knew that he was keeping everything inside. He would eventually talk about his dad dying but it would be when he was ready. Annie started looking at the people gathered to pay their respects to Joe King. She glanced at Joe's family and how devastated they all looked. His sister was holding little Caroline and she was fast asleep, while her twin brother was trying to wriggle out of his grandmother's arms. She looked at the Stetsons and her heart was breaking. She knew that Phillips parents were very close friends and that Lee and Carrie were also a part of that endearing friendship between ex spouses. Lee had his arms around Amanda and she was leaning on him. She squeezed Phillips hand a bit tighter and wondered if their relationship would ever be on the same level as the Stetsons. She knew she loved Phillip and that he loved her. That was enough for her. They could do anything as long as they were together. Annie sighed and looked over at the casket. She always loved hanging out with Mr. King. He had some crazy wild stories about Africa and a few that included Amanda. He was what her Momma called a " Sweet Soul" ….that's exactly how she would remember Joe King.

Phillip continued to look around and completely not listen to the minister. What did he know about my dad? Phillip thought. He had no idea of the fights his parents had when he was little. He can remember hearing Joe call Amanda selfish and a few times even a "bitch". Phillip would never admit that to his mother though. That wasn't something you never called a woman, even he knew that. But in the last few years before his parents divorced there was lots of name calling. He remembered how his dad would only come home once or twice a year after that. And it wasn't even on holidays, it was just some random week here or there. Most of the time he and Jamie already had plans with soccer games or the Junior Trailblazers so their time with their dad was cut short. It wasn't until about two years ago that Joe came back into their lives and really tried to get to know his sons. He remarried and had twins with Carrie. Phillip hoped that having more kids would help his dad be a better one. And now this. Jacob and Caroline would live without a dad….sort of like how he and Jamie did. Phillip sighed and thought how unfair that really was. He then noticed his stepfather, Lee. He was standing there just holding on to Phillips mom. Lee didn't have any expression on his face except worry for his wife. Gads, he really loves mom and wants to protect her from everything. You can see it on his face! Phillip wondered.

Phillip felt a hand on his shoulder and his mother saying, " Sweetheart, it's your turn to go up to the casket" She had tears welling in her beautiful brown eyes. She looked at her son and smiled. He nodded and stood up. He reached for Annie's hand as they walked up to the casket. Annie willingly took Phillips hand and gave him a weak smile. He took one of the white roses from the planter that was next to the casket and he held it in his hands. He twirled it around between his fingers and stared at the casket. He carefully placed the rose on the casket and took a step back towards Annie. He immediately put his arm around her waist and kissed the side of her forehead. He stared at the casket again for a few minutes. As he stood there tears fell from his eyes and talked to his father for the last time.

CHAPTER 5 - December 1989

" Amanda! Can you get the door? This tree is heavy!" Lee was shouting for his wife to open the front door of their home on Maplewood Dr. Amanda heard the booming sound of her husband's baritone voice and hurried to open the door.

" Oh Sweetheart! You didn't have to get such a big tree!...But it really is beautiful. I love it!" She smiled at him and gave him a sweet kiss. Their son, Jamie, was at the other end of the tree and rolled his eyes. He would never get used to all of the kissing his parents seemed to do all of the time. Lee and Jamie placed the tree in the corner of the den where Amanda instructed them. It was a beautiful full tree. Amanda just beamed at the sight of it. She sighed as her husband came over to her and placed his arm around her waist.

" You like it really? Jamie and I had such a time picking one out. I wanted it to be perfect!"

Amanda Stetson laughed at her husband's comment about something regarding Christmas being perfect. She could remember just a few years ago Lee Stetson's idea of a perfect Christmas consisted of a football game on TV, guacamole and chips and a bottle of champagne. Not since being with Amanda did Lee's Grinch heart start to melt regarding Christmas and he wanted everything to be perfect.

Jamie slumped into the chair and said " So when can we decorate this baby?" Lee laughed and smiled at his step son. In the months since their dad died, Jamie had really come out of his shell and was more open to everyone in the house. He always had a camera in his hands as well and Lee suspected it as a bit of a coping mechanism. Jamie didn't want to miss anything that could be a memory. Amanda reached over and kissed her youngest son on the top of his head. " We will once Phillp and Annie get here with her parents, then Carrie and the babies and of course your grandmother and Captain Kurt. Why don't you and Lee go get the boxes with all of the ornaments out of the attic?" Jamie already was running up the stairs and calling for Lee to come help. Lee took his wife into his arms and kissed her soundly. " I guess dad's job is never done huh? He certainly has the Christmas spirit in him this year!" Lee kissed Amanda once more and then went in search of their son. Amanda laughed at Lee and Jamie as she heard them arguing and teasing one another. They sound like he and I when we are on a case! Amanda giggled. She stood up and took a deep breath. She dismissed the bit of nausea and dizziness, smiled to herself and silently said to herself that this was definitely going to be an exciting Christmas!

Christmas Eve started off with another huge argument between Dotty and her sister Lillian. Neither of them could agree on how a goose was supposed to be cooked correctly. The decibels of their yelling would and could quite possibly wake up a hibernating bear. Lee Stetson rolled over to face the middle of the bed. He went to reach for his wife, Amanda, but she wasn't there. Lee sat up and looked around the room. She wasn't there either.

" Amanda?" Lee called out to his wife.

The bathroom door opened and Amanda Stetson walked out. She had on one of her silly Christmas sweaters, this one had a Christmas angel and snowflakes. She had on a dark pair of jeans and her hair was cascading on her shoulders. Lee looked at his wife and she seemed suspicious. He knew her better than anyone and when she wanted to hide something she was overly cheery. Lee wanted to test his theory.

" Amanda, where were you? I woke up and you weren't in bed?"

Amanda looked at him and smiled " Where was I?"

Lee smirked at her. Answering my question with a question….let's see where this goes. He thought to himself.

"Yes, I asked you where you were."

" OH, where was I? " Lee nodded and smiled at his wife. Amanda chuckled and said " Oh, I was in the bathroom. And then I was downstairs getting a jump start on the food. Today is Christmas Eve after all!"

Lee raised his eyebrow, " Yes it sure is, Mrs. Stetson. Any hints as to what you got me for Christmas?" He pulled her down onto the bed and nuzzled her neck. Amanda sighed and enjoyed the moment, but then eventually pulled herself up after hearing a huge crash in the kitchen.

" MOM! You may wanna get down there! Grandma threw a pot at Aunt Lillian!" They heard Phillip yelling through their bedroom door. The Stetsons burst into laughter at the thought of seeing Dotty throwing a pot at her sister. Amanda walked over to the door and said " Okay Stetson, you have 30 minutes to get yourself showered and dressed! We have a lot to do today! NO excuses!"

Lee swung his legs over the side of the bed and looked at Amanda. He saluted her as he stood up to go get in the shower. He closed the door and Amanda looked down at her stomach. It was doing some serious flip flops and another wave of nausea creeped over her. She took a deep breath and whispered to herself Not yet, little one. We have to make it through the day...then we can announce your coming! Don't make Mommy too sick today. I don't know how much longer I can pull this off! Amanda smiled and walked downstairs to survey the damage.

"Well, Merry Christmas everyone! Let's all sit down in the den and we can open presents!" Dotty exclaimed as the Stetson/King and Hamilton families marched into the house after the Christmas Eve services. Everyone took off their coats and hung them up on the banisters of the stairs and the coat rack. Jamie ran into the den first as he wanted to get a good spot. Phillip and Annie walked in after him hand in hand, then her parents. Dotty pushed Lee and Amanda into the den as they were trying to have a private moment. " There's time for that later you too! I swear you still act like newlyweds!" She giggled as they took their spots on the couch. She noticed Jamie trying to peek at the gifts under the tree and she stated " Will someone please give Jamie a gift! He's about to burst!". Everyone laughed and Annie handed Jamie a box " This is from my family to you. I hope you like it." Annie then handed gifts to Lee and Amanda, Dotty and Phillip. The gift exchange continued between the families with lots of "oohs" and "ahhs".

Phillip was especially nervous about giving his gift to Annie. He had already talked to Tom, her dad and was given his approval. And Lee took him shopping for the dainty garnet ring he wanted to use as a promise ring to Annie. Tom cleared his throat and winked at Lee when he saw Phillip walk over to Annie and hand her the tiny gift.

" I wanted to give this to you in private but your dad and Lee all but demanded I do this in front of the family."

Annie looked at Phillip and smiled. " Thank you Phillip! Merry Christmas!" and with that she ripped the package open. A black velvet box revealed a beautiful emerald cut garnet stone, Annie's birthstone . She burst into tears and hugged Phillips neck and without thinking gave him a big kiss in front of the whole family. Phillip blushed as they broke apart and he noticed that both Lee and Mr. Tom were grinning.

"Oh Phillip I love it! It's beautiful!" Phillip took her hands, took the ring from the box and placed it on her ring finger. " This is the part I have to say in front of everyone. '' He rolled his eyes at his stepfather, but it didn't really bother him. Lee and Tom chuckled. Phillip was saying what everyone in the family already knew. That Annie was his...forever. '' Annie, I love you very much and I know that we are still very young but if you will wait for me I want this ring to be a symbol of my commitment and promise to you." He said out loud, but then whispered to just Annie, "Just walk with me, Red?"

Annie smiled at her entire family and everyone was beaming. Lee sat there proudly as he watched his son declare his love to Annie. Amanda brushed away happy tears. She looked at Phillip and smiled. " I told you that I'll walk with you anywhere, King. I mean that!" She hugged Phillip and he kissed her forehead. This is some Christmas and I know it's just going to get better! he thought to himself! He was so beyond happy.

Lee and Amanda looked at one another and then back at the kids. Just walk with me? Amanda thought of a sweet memory and she knew her husband was thinking the same thing. " Um, Annie, sweetheart….why did you say that you would walk with Phillip anywhere?"

Annie was hugging her parents as Amanda asked her that question. Annie came over to her and gave her a quick hug and nonchalantly mentioned, " Oh the first thing that Phillip ever said to me was 'Just walk with me'. I guess it's kind of been our thing ever since. It's our go-to phrase. We know that we will be ok as long as we walk through anything together.`` Amanda smiled at Annie and Phillip as they continued to hug everyone. Lee walked over to Amanda and whispered. " I told you that it would be really cool if they were high school sweethearts. 'Just walk with me' sounds like a great way to start off a life together….doesn't it?" He held her tight against him and kissed the side of her forehead.

Amanda sighed and leaned against her husband. Watching her son and his girlfriend made her happy. She knew that they would have a wonderful future together. Suddenly, a wave of nausea came over Amanda and she ran to the bathroom. Lee looked very concerned as she took off to the bathroom. He ran after her and waited outside the bathroom door.

" Amanda...are you okay?" Lee called through the door.

Amanda sighed and looked at herself in the mirror. Well, I guess it's time, little one. Let's go tell Daddy.

She opened the bathroom door and smiled. Lee was standing there with concern and worry. She gave him a sweet kiss and said she was fine. " Let's open gifts. I have one that I would like for you to see." She took his hand and led him back into the den. Amanda went over to the Christmas tree and picked up a small gift with a gold bow on it. She handed it to Lee as he sat down on the couch and smiled.

"Merry Christmas sweetheart! I hope you will like this one,...and it's not a scarf!"

Lee looked at his wife and rolled his eyes at her joke about getting a scarf for Christmas. That was Lee's go to gift for his friends before he met Amanda. He opened the box and inside was a pregnancy test.

He looked at Amanda. He looked at the box again and realized what it was.

" Amanda...are you serious? This is really going to happen for us?" Lee had tears in his eyes as he looked at his wife.

Dotty glanced at Lee as he said that and questioned his reaction to the gift her daughter gave him. She saw Amanda crying and nodding her head yes. Lee stood up and hugged his wife and swung her around.

" A BABY! A MAN DA! This is the best news ever! Oh sweetheart! Merry Christmas darling!"

The group all looked up as they heard Lee Stetson announce to the family that Amanda was having a baby. There were gasps and giggling as everyone realized that there would be another addition to the family. Dotty jumped up and ran over to her daughter and son in law.

" A baby?! Oh Amanda! This is wonderful!"

Phillip and Jamie looked at one another and smiled. Big Brothers...again. This was indeed a very Merry Christmas for the Stetson/ King family. Phillip thought about how this year had changed everything and he was looking forward to his future. He walked over to his parents and gave them each a hug. His parents were beaming and crying happy tears and they joined in the merriment of the holiday with the terrific news of the arrival of Baby Stetson.