Chapter 5

"I didn't think that was what you meant AJ. I guess it was just that even here in town where I have been doing this for years there are still skeptics. Forgive me if I was a bit defensive."

"All is forgiven, but we should probably be heading back, don't you think?

"Yes we probably should. Let me trun off the lights and lock up," she said as they walked towards the door.

Once they were back on the street Cassie offered her hand to him and he happily took it. They strolled slowly towards Grayhouse not really saying much, just enjoying the night air and each others company. At the house they realized most everyone had gone to bed. All but a few of the downstairs lights were off and the only one that greeted them was George. He wished them good night and said now that they were back he would lock up.

After wishing her father-in-law good night Cassie and AJ climbed the stairs together. He was a bit surprised when she walked down the hall to his room with him. At his door he paused and smiled at her, "I guess it's time to say good night for us too."

"I guess it is. Good night AJ," she told him with a smile and turned to open the door right across the hall from his.

"Is that your room?" Wen she nodded he added, "I didn't realize we were so close."

"I hope you don't mind being right across the hall from me?"

"Not at all," he replied.

"Well good night then," she smiled.

AJ simply couldn't help himself he leaned close and gently kissed her sweet lips. It was just a short kiss but both of them were smiling when he lifted his head. Both turned and went into their rooms.

The next day everyone gathered around the breakfast buffet Cassie had set out. All the talk centered around Mac and Harm's vow renewal ceremony that evening. Everyone was looking forward to it.

AJ offered to help Cassie clean up after the meal and the two of them were in the kitchen when a beautiful young girl came into the room. Kissing Cassie on the cheek she said, "Hi mom, I'm home," as she picked up one of the mini quiches Cassie had made for breakfast and popped it into her mouth.

"Didn't you eat at Tammy's?" Cassie asked.

"Yeah, but Tammy's mom isn't as good a cook as you are mom!" turning to AJ she asked, "Hi, who are you?"

Holding out his hand to her he replied, "AJ Chegwidden, and you must be Grace."

"Yes Sir. How did you get roped into KP?"

AJ chuckled, "I volenteered."

"Didn't your mother ever tell you not to volenteer for things?"

"Is that what your mother told you?" AJ asked Grace, but he was looking at Cassie while he did.

Grace was a very inteligent young lady and didn't miss the looks passing between her mother and Mr. Chegwidden. He was the first man her mother had shown any kind of interest in since her dad had died. She would have to get to know him better before she could decide if she approved or not.

As soon as the kitchen was cleaned up from breakfast Grace and Cassie began to make the cake Mac and Harm had requested for their reception. The Bistro would cater the dinner so Cassie and her family would also be able to relax and enjoy the evening.

Grace had an idea that would give her some time to get to know this man. Opening a drawer, she tossed him an apron, "How would you like to help us make a cake Mr. Chegwidden?"

Taking the apron and putting it on, he told her, "I will on one condition, that you call me AJ."

"Okay!"

"Then where would you like me to start?"

"Why don't you sift the flour while I cream the butter and sugar together and Grace can add the eggs one at a time," Cassie suggested.

"Sounds good," AJ agreed and got to work helping Cassie and her daughter.

To Be Continued…