Chapter 57
There was group of people waiting outside the Mission, some knew the family slightly and just wanted to show their support, others had just stopped to chat as they'd seen something was going on and stayed. Then there were the reporters, cameramen and a small TV crew all hoping for that lucky break that would get them noticed. They had already got the heart clutching photos and write up as the children and mothers dressed in black went in following the coffin. As the rest of the mourners gathered and went into the outer rooms to wait for the first service to finish they'd taken photos, made notes and quietly hoped something would occur that would put them on the front page or main news. Didn't happen, there was only sadness and respect for the deceased, so now they settled to wait knowing there was still one person to come. Unless, of course the police had sneaked him in via the back door or he wasn't coming which would be a story in itself.
Couple of minutes ticked by and they all perked up, a police van and another car drew up and stopped by the gates. Cameras clicked and the mood started to turn vocal and hostile as Tim with the escort of two officers got out and walked towards the Mission. Two other officers got out and made their way to the entrance of the Mission and glared at the crowd as they passed, which made the crowd quieten into mutterings only.
The reporters had all ready lost interest as Jack and Jude got out the unmarked car, on recognising Jude they stepped forward and started yelling questions and the cameras clicked or filmed the scene. Jude shook his head and said loudly, "No Comment." and the two burly officers took a couple of steps forward towards the reporters and cameramen, who instinctively took steps back, shut up and put their cameras down.
The vehicles drove off to park out of sight and wait so the crowd settled down and the reporters went back to the list and tried to remember if they'd seen everyone come and if not who was left. Moments later their interest was stirred again as a car with dark tinted windows drew up and nothing happened for a moment. Inside Robert made sure Meg was okay and then got out and helped her out.
There were murmurings in the crowd and the clicking of the camera as Meg was recognised and the reporters moved forward ready to fire questions. But, just a they started the two officers moved quickly and shook their heads; the reporters took a couple of paces back and shut up again. The cameramen sneaked a couple of extra photos as the couple walked into the Mission and an officer said. "That's all now." So the crowd settled down to either move on or wait for everyone to come out. Satisfied the crowd would stay the Officers moved back to guard the entrance, the reporters naturally assumed it was to make sure Tim didn't make a run for it and added it to their story, but the officers knew differently.
In the inner entrance Meg waited silently letting her mind wander, knowing Robert was close and he like the others had an 'invisible' ear and mike pieces so they would know when to enter, they both knew that things were running a little late and they had to let Tim settle. Unconsciously she stroked the smooth stems of her soulmates' farewell gift to his brother, two partly opened rosebuds, one red and one white, which he had picked from their garden for her to lay in the coffin if it was open, on it if it was closed. She couldn't help her slight smile because she automatically thought of him as John or soulmate, and knew that reverting back to Ben would be interesting for both them.
As she became conscious of Robert moving beside her, she had a flashback of her father standing besides her as they waited to go into the chapel on her wedding day.
"Meg, we should move. Are you all right?" Robert asked gently.
She came back to now and smiled then explained "Yes I just flashed back to my wedding, Dad and I standing here waiting to go in. Could even smell the flowers and hear the music."
Robert smiled "The mind's a funny thing. Do you want me to do this?"
She felt her baby stir and settle down again "No, I'm fine thank you." and knew she was.
With a nod Robert walked towards the door and opened it allowing her to walk in, he would stay near the entrance ready to do his bit and knew no one would be coming in behind him, the police officers outside and in the crèche would make sure of that.
oxoxo
As Meg walked in everyone turned to see who had entered, having just settled down from Tim's entrance. She hesitated for a moment; her memories of the wedding and her being the avenging Angel were swept away by the sea of faces and the feeling of sadness for the deceased that came from them. But as she looked back at them she suddenly became calm and amazed at the beauty and peaceful aura that prevailed in the Chapel. The aisle ahead of her and the coffin were suddenly bathed in sunlight as the sun came out from behind the clouds. With a quick glance to the side as she started to walk down the aisle she saw Tim with his guards and lawyer. She could see all this had been very hard for him but was pleased by the slight nod as their eyes met for a split second and knew he would be all right.
She took her time and noted that in spite of the Chapel being full Jack and Jude had managed to squeeze into the row behind Maria and Tess. Her eyes were automatically drawn to the coffin on a stand in front of the Alter; the coffin was open so anyone could say a last farewell as they placing their flowers with the others on the floor. She saw Antonio standing on the slightly raised platform to one side of the Alter, resplendent in his Priest's gowns. As he looked in her direction she saw apprehension mixed with sadness and a flash of relief as he recognised her, she stopped a smile of reassurance from coming. As she passed her friends and family, saw and felt sadness with hints of anger at the death and knew she had to make them understand that Derek was truly forgiven so they could mourn and move on without guilt.
Now as she drew closer to the coffin and the grieving widow, friend and Mother she felt her own emotions come to ahead and was tempted to let them explode especially seeing the genuine grief of Ricardo and Gabi, and hoped he would not be too angry when the truth was told. Feeling her baby fidget then settle down she suddenly felt a wave of calmness wash over her, almost feel her soulmate beside her and gave a nod of acknowledgement and got a nod from Maria so carried on towards the Alter and the coffin.
She knew as far as they were concerned she would say her silent farewell, leave the flowers with the others, and then find somewhere to sit or stand nearby. Once past Maria's pew she looked across at Antonio and gave a nod of acknowledgement, hoping Antonio would wait before speaking. He gave a nod in return and stayed silent. She looked at Casey and saw this had hit him really hard and gave a nod with a hint of sympathy, which he returned likewise then she turned slightly to walk over to the coffin.
Meg stood looking down for a moment as she stood beside the coffin to compose her feelings. Then she look up and saw Derek lying with his hands crossed on his chest, his fringe had not been force down but was as it usually was making him look as though he was peacefully asleep. Just needed that word or touch from her to wake him so he could tell her it was all a mistake, a dream. But, she knew it would not happen and thought of her soulmate's words and love for his twin, and that this was his farewell not hers and drew on his strength to carry on.
She stepped closer to the coffin and leant over slightly and gently put the white rose and then the red rosebuds on his hands saying softly so that only he could hear. "White is for peace you tried to find. Red is for love from one brother to another no matter what." She straightened up still looking at twin stepped back then stopped.
Standing there for a moment she let the shock of the photos she'd seen and things she'd learnt that morning, along with flashbacks of the previous months as well as the knowledge it all could have been stopped and been different wash over and then settle. She felt a deeper understanding surface and realised she did love this twin. Not as a lover but as a wayward brother and she needed everyone to understand that.
It had all seemed easy when they talked about it at the station and in the car, she would simply walk across to Antonio and explain. But now she knew she needed to do more to tell Derek how she really felt and she was happy to be his avenging angel.
She breathed deeply and decided to trust in what she had learnt from loving her soulmate, his twin and that was to let her true feelings show and her instincts tell her what to say.
oxoxo
Meg had had no idea what effect her entrance made on the congregation - her beauty or the aura the sunlit aisle gave her as she walked towards coffin. Everyone saw the red and white roses she held and understood she was saying goodbye to a former lover and friend. A few had seen the sunlight catch her ring so knew she'd married her lover and father of her unborn child and had moved.
She did not know either about the ripple of anxiety that ran round the Chapel as she lay the roses in the coffin not outside as all the others had. Nor the relief they felt as Maria had not jumped up to stopped it or the quiet ponderings of where she would sit as the only space was by Carmen and an old lover could not sit with a grieving family surely. They saw Casey who'd been standing silently waiting to give his address about his friend move towards Meg, and reckoned he would escort her back to her family and they would have to move up to let her in.
Casey stepped towards Meg then stopped as she spoke to the man who lay in the coffin in front of her as if he was alive and could hear and understand her.
Meg's voice though gentle and clear had the tone tinged with love and justifiable anger, reminding many of a parent gently chiding a child rather than that of the raging anger of a turned out lover, which the words implied at first. "I should curse the very air you breathed, the ground you stepped on and the lives you cruelly hurt and took.
But I don't.
You asked me to be your avenging Angel so your children who you love are safe, that you will be buried with the name your parents gave you at birth, and your murderers be brought to justice. Lastly but not least, give back the name you took and acknowledge the twin you hurt so much but finally came to love."
Her tone changed to one of gentle acceptance with no anger in it as she added. "I do this willingly with a love of a sister to a brother who in spite of all his faults deserves to rest in peace."
As she finished she let the moment hang almost feeling the shock and puzzlement from the congregation. It would have been silent except for two gasps from the front row. She turned to face them and saw Maria and Tess sitting bolt upright, watching her and saw possibly anger or fear flash across their faces.
Before anyone could react she carried on letting her gentle anger ripple through her words. "You should have trusted his love Maria. He was willing to you give everything you ever asked for even your freedom. Instead you'll have nothing. Not even the clothes you are wearing."
She saw Maria and Tess look at her in horror possibly an unspoken but mouthed "No" but she ignored them and raised her eyes so she talked to everyone and continued the anger replaced by sadness. "He is Derek not Ben. Ben was kidnapped in Seattle, September 1999 and Derek took his memories and his place. Derek sent me a letter which I received after his death telling me he wanted to live his life with his children in peace and named his likely murderers if he should die." Bringing her eyes back to the widow she said. "I would have let him have his freedom and live with his children as he asked, but you and Tess killed him."
"Meg!" Casey exclaimed as he came to her and wrapped his arms around her shoulders letting her lean against him. She accepted his protection and support but watched Maria and Tess.
Maria stood up and took a step forward then stopped. Though pale and tear stained her eyes blazed with anger at the accusation and her anger showed as she waved her hands over towards Tim and then the coffin to reinforce her point as she angrily exclaimed. "Liar! … Its bad enough I have to have Ben's murderer in the chapel with me but to have you accuse Ben of being Derek … is sick Meg! ... That is Ben's body! … You saw Derek fall down the cliff... and You never forgave Ben for choosing me when he returned from Seattle! … That's why you ran away. … How dare you say he's Derek! … How dare you ruin my life while you carry your lover's child! ... No! I correct that … I see you married him … Is that because Ben's death has set you free!"
Before Robert or Meg could say anything Antonio's calm clear voice stopped Maria in her tracks. "Maria! He is Derek not Ben." Looking at the shocked congregation and meeting his sister's frozen glare he paused and gave an almost silent sigh knowing he had to go on.
When he carried on there was sadness and an apology in his voice, he felt as though he'd failed the man but deep down he also knew he could not have done anything differently, Derek had known that at the time he was sure of it, and said. "I left Sunset Beach lunch time that day to seek guidance because the man I knew as Ben Evans came to me and under confessional explained he was Derek and medical records had been changed but Tyus knew the differences. He had Ben killed and you, Maria, knew all about it. … … To his mind the bad part of him died with Ben and only good followed … because of that the past should be allowed to rest. … There were after all two lovely children to care for and they would lose both parents and be put in care if the truth came out. … From what he had seen that morning he was worried that you wanted your freedom with no strings attached. So he was moving on with the children and some of his fortune so at least they would grow up with one loving parent. He reckoned that by leaving you the larger part of his fortune you would know you were safe and he would keep his silence.
He could not understand why it was happening you had everything you could wish for, he adored you and you both loved the children. … He also told me and I believed him that he regretted Ben's death but at the time he really believed it was the only way he could stop his pain and become the person he should have been. He also regretted the deaths he caused and asked for forgiveness. … He went on to tell me I could break my silence only after his death and if Meg was unable to attend his funeral. I…"
Maria shouted across her brother's words, "Liar! That man's Ben … Derek died!"
Jude had moved beside her and put a hand on her shoulder and silenced her with firm but gentle. "Enough!"
Meg heard in the silence her father's exclamation "Nothing ever runs smoothly not even his funeral... Why does Meg have to ..."
She guessed her mother hushed her father and saw her sister move in for comfort, and AJ put a protective arm round Bette as her gasp in shock were turning to tears. She knew Mandy would be comforting Annie as the shock rippled round the Chapel as they realised this was not a spat this was something deeper.
Into the ripple of shock Robert who'd walked part way down the aisle said clearly. "Maria. We have all the proof we need and this is a letter that Derek sent to Meg and you all should hear it.
Dear Meg
A plea, don't tear up this letter or the other one when you read my words.
I apologies for the tone of the other letter it's not what I feel now or have done for quite a while.
If I could have done it any other way I would have. Now there is an admission but you know the strange thing is I think even now my brother would forgive me, even stranger it's his expertise I'm using to protect me and my children as well as Tim and Abby as we run for safety.
Yesterday for the first time in my life I wanted my brother by my side, so we might enjoy my happiness together - but not in the selfish way it sounds I wanted it for both of us. …. … … …
When Robert finished the letter Jude added looking at Tess. "The evidence in the box proves the gun that killed Derek belonged to Tess, which led us to prove she with Maria's help framed Tim. We have deeds in a different name but no doubt the handwriting will match yours, not to mention the wedding certificates and photos that prove without a shadow of a doubt that you and Carmen were at the wedding of Derek and Maria Evans. There is also Benjy's real birth certificate different day and month and names Derek as his father."
Jude paused and looked at Maria who'd steadfastly stayed looking towards the Alter as she listened to the damning letter and evidence and his tone changed to deceivingly casual but let his anger show at the very end as he continued. "Oh yes I've had a word with Mr English. You even reassured him this morning that everything would all right for after the funeral. … So, were you going to dump Benjy and Samantha on Carmen while you played lover instead of a caring mother and widow? … Interestingly, according to Ross English he only stays for a short while then would be off to new pastures, alone. … Perhaps that's what it was on your part … a try out to see if you could still cut it and then a holiday for the grieving widow before you, Tess and the children meet up and start a new life using Ben's fortune! Having got rid of both the loving fathers!"
Maria turned to face him her face full of defiance, but he carried on too quickly for her to say anything, though they kept eye contact. "You can't claim Derek was a threat because you cancelled each other out! … All you had to do was to talk to him and he would have given … was giving you your freedom, total freedom! … He loved you so deeply Maria. Instead you took it and his life and failed totally! You and Tess above anyone else should have known better than to try and pull a fast one on Derek, even in death he's made sure his children are safe and you will face justice and will live with it.
The irony of all this is, he turned to his dead brother's memories and plans so he could flee his soulmate and he turned to his brother's soulmate asking her to become their avenging Angel and was not found wanting. She came through in love and respect for both of them. And you know something strange, during this morning as I've heard Derek's story and in spite of the pain I know he caused I admire him for the love he gave his children and town in the months he's been with us and I'm sorry I will never know his brother Ben."
Maria looked away as Jude spoke but stayed silent.
Tess and Carmen stood as though turned to stone and silent as the truth gradually crept through their shattered thoughts and knew they'd lost everything.
oxoxo
Around the chapel there had been gasps, murmurs and tears as they'd heard the letter, accusations and evidence. All of it mixing in with the recent memories of the twin with his children and some had a little a touch of admiration at the way justice was being done. But all were slowly painfully realising that the real Ben would not be coming back as he had before.
Joan though shocked was remembering the quiet man she'd respected and they'd obviously lost, and heard AJ's whispered "If Ben could have been with us he would have done it with love, Derek didn't lie in the letter he had no reason to, not to Meg." to a tearful Bette and knew they were remembering their wedding day. She felt her husband's arm come round her shoulders in a supportive hug and welcomed it, and then felt Sara's hand grasp hers as she whispered in a shaky shocked tone. "Before he went to Seattle I told him he would not be missed Mum … I didn't mean it like that honest."
She gave her daughter's hand a gentle squeeze, knowing in some ways she was still very young and said gently. "He knew you cared Sara that was enough." And hoped he knew they did care and shut down all thoughts of how he might have died, knowing if he'd lived he would have come back for Meg…
Hank's quiet, edged with deep sadness words "I should have tried harder." cut into her thoughts and she said lovingly understanding his pain "Ssh later love, not now." As part of her was with her other daughter standing at the Alter, and wondered seeing Casey with his arm round Meg's shoulders just who was supporting who. She could see Casey's sadness and saw her daughter's tears as the letter was read out but she'd also seen a glow or aura which was more than just an expectant mum's bloom and wondered if it could be the fact the twin had chosen her to tell the truth, or was there something more and pondered back….
Casey was distraught, his mind was swamped with shock and the horror that Maria could have been such a bitch and that Derek had deceived him ... them and he'd lost his best friend without a fight. And anger at himself he should have known and rescued Ben, that was what he'd been trained to do, rescue people, instead he'd let his friendship go. But there was also a sneaking relief that peaked through – that his friendship had not been tainted and had stayed totally with Ben and not been deceived by Derek. He slammed it down reasoning if he'd been closer to Derek he would have seen the cracks and saved Ben months ago not let him die in some hell hole.
There was also a bit of him that knew he should be consoling Meg after all she'd just found out that she'd been married to Ben, but somehow at the moment he seemed to be getting more strength from her and felt her finger gently brush against his cheek and realised he'd been silently crying and she'd brushed them away.
Silently letting the tears for his lost friend fall, knowing it would take a lot to fill the hole he felt he looked at Meg's face and realised there was something extra there - there was a sparkle in her eyes. They were no longer as sad as they had been … was that because justice was being done and was just going to ask if she was all right - but didn't get the chance.
oxoxo
Jude having said his piece and not wanting Maria to get a second wind continued very officially. "Maria Evans, Tess Truman and Madam Torres I am arresting you for conspiracy to defraud and the murder of Derek and Ben Evans … ….."
As soon as Jude started the formal caution Jack moved swiftly round them to Tess so he acted as a block for Carmen as well knowing full well that when the formal words were heard it would bring them out of their stupor and possibly into action… most likely making them hit out and run for it. He knew Bob and the officers next to Tim would be ready if necessary.
With the meaning of the evidence against his sister and mother sinking in Ricardo's anger grew to boiling point not only for himself but for his brother and Gabi because she'd been hurt by his mother's actions. But, as he heard Jude start the caution the Police Officer part of him took over and as he felt his mother move beside him, it was the anger of a hurt son that sounded in his voice as he spat out. "Don't even think of it Mama!" and reached inside his pocket to where he knew he always carried a pair of handcuffs.
Carman turned to look at her son with indignant innocence and exclaimed. "Ricardo! I have done nothing!"
Jude had finished the formal words and was not going to have any of it and said harshly, "You could have stopped it from ever happening Carmen. … Instead you helped every step of the way. Right at the beginning you made sure he knew the right people so you could kept tabs on him without anyone realising it. After the storm you were their eyes and ears, now we will trace those calls. You made sure Ben never got over his loss or had anyone to turn too, not even your sons who he respected.
Of course it helped that Ricardo blamed him didn't it, but then you never let your son settle either did you. When Ben started to find himself again you pointed them in the direction that lead to the murders on the island. You carry responsibility for those as well Carmen not just Derek. One phone call to Ben at any time saying Derek was around and he would have moved on with or without Meg, his escape plan would have worked and Maria could have stayed with Derek. Or you could have phone the police without leaving your name but enough information to start the right questions, but you didn't did you. You let them play their games."
Ricardo gasped as all the implications behind Jude's words sunk and glanced at his brother who was standing by the Alter pale and in pain, and spat out harshly. "You never even considered our pain when we thought Maria had died! … What were we just tools for your plan! … … The twins may be dead but I will make sure you and Maria repay every cent you owe to Meg and stay in jail for the rest of your lives. … I am no longer your son!"
Carmen looked at her son, trying to fend off his anger, after all, she had only done what was right to protect her family he should know that. But his anger was too much so she looked away and looked into Antonio's face and was shocked by his silent anger and started to defend herself so he would understand.
Antonio was too disgusted to even want to hear his mother's words and shook his head and looked away; hoping the congregation would understand that this Priest could not forgive her and that two lives had been lost for greed.
Carmen lost her words, and she shivered as Ricardo's hand grasped her wrist and she felt the cold metal handcuff against her skin. There was not gentleness only cold official firmness as her other wrist was grasped and brought behind her to be cuffed to the other one. Her mind buzzed with anger "She was being cuffed as though she was a dangerous criminal. She Was Not … She Was His Mother … Who'd Nursed and Protected Him … How Dare He Do This To Her" but her body stayed still.
At the same time Jude was handcuffing Maria's wrists he was surprised by her silent compliance after her anger. Wondered if the truth it was all over had sunk in but knew anger could come quickly so was ready in case she hit out.
In fact Maria was a mess, her mind had splintered into different types of silent anger, especially at Meg for daring to come back and take everything away from her. And to have the cheek to say she would have let him live ... No way, he was the one who killed her so called soulmate.
Hell, she'd never even thought separation without the kids was a possibility; his death had seemed to be the only answer. He'd even left her nearly all his money. Hell, If only Tess had waited an hour or so she could have had it all. … To cap it all he'd out witted her even in death.
Jude was so wrong Ross was not a fling! He would have stayed. There was anger at Ricardo's words to his mother because she knew they were aimed at her as well … as for the forgiving Priest, he had turned away from both of them… How Dare He Judge Her so lightly when he'd sinned himself.
But through it all there was an emptiness that she didn't understand and it had been creeping up on her ever since she woke in the large master bed … alone that morning. It had increased with a jolt when she saw it looking back at her in Benjy's eyes along with his sad gentle question "Why?". Her son had just put the gift of a coin and blue crayon pencil in the coffin and had blown his father a kiss after whispering him a tearful goodbye, and then he looked at her and asked it. He had not expected answer but it had gone through her like a knife … perhaps it was because she could have answered it. Told him she'd just wanted his father gone so she could live her life …but now … …
It was Jude's gentle but firm pressure on her shoulders making her move so he could finish cuffing her hands behind her back, along Tess's sudden outburst that stopped her thinking anymore about the emptiness that was threatening to engulf her.
Hearing the end of Jude's caution and suddenly realising Jack was standing in front of her slammed the truth into Tess's mind and she hit out and struggled to get away shouting. "You're retired …. You cannot do this! … I was at home on the phone!"
Jack was used to handling struggling 'hell cats' continued with controlled force to put the handcuff on her wrist as he said so everyone could hear, "I can and will … I'm a police officer just like Jude." then whispered quickly so only she could hear. "We know the exact time of Derek's death." then continued in a louder voice so everyone else could hear. "And yes you were on the cell phone but at Ocean Drive not your home as you said. …We traced you there by your cell phone." Then as he turned her avoiding a kick and secured her wrist he added with an edge. "Was that call so Maria could hear the shot and Derek's last breathe … proof of death and it was alright to come now."
With her hands cuffed behind her back Tess found she was now facing the shocked and angry congregation instead of the Alter. With the bench in front of her and Jack behind her still holding her wrist she could not struggle, so she opened her mouth to shout her denial, while her mind was trying to convince herself they were tricking her they could not know the truth … could they?
But the shout never came, because Jack's voice floated past her ear as he continued. He had not expected an answer to his question he just needed to make the point. "We know Derek was ill but you and Maria were not. None of you stopped him, which makes you a hundred times worse and pure evil. From the very beginning Derek knew your greed would keep you where the money was, remember it is his evidence that led us to you. It will stand up in court because his letter is guidance as to where to look. We searched your home Tim and Meg gave us permission, Tim lives there and the twin's money bought it and Meg is their representative or avenging angel allowed us to look. We found wigs and clothes and the shopkeeper you bribed to implicate Tim he's given us the money and description of two women. A parade and fingerprints will no doubt do the rest. He didn't like the idea of Death Row either, but you will not have the choice."
Tess's mind homed into one point and in desperation she managed to twist slightly sideways and shouted. "You can't the children need us!"
Jude said as he gently but firmly pushed Maria towards the aisle. "When the children said goodbye to their father today they also said goodbye to you, Maria and Carmen. Derek wanted them to be kept safe and they will be. Now remember where you are and walk quietly to and out the door."
Simmons and the other officers came forward and started to usher the three prisoners in the right direction. Ricardo, looking shattered started to follow the group when Jude said quietly. "No Ricardo your place is here with your wife, brother, and Ben's friends, we'll deal with this. Jack can explain everything."
But Jack put a hand on Jude's shoulder and stopped him with a quiet "Wait a moment, there is something else you should know." The gentle command in his voice stopped Jude and everyone else. Would have brought silence into the chapel except a very emotional Casey saying to Meg "I'm so sorry for your loss. Ben was a good friend." and stopped unable to go on.
Meg looked at him with a gentle smile in spite of her tears, which were for Derek and his loss and her voice steady as she said. "Don't ask me to mourn Ben's death because I cannot."
Casey felt a deeper sadness wash over him believing the Meg was too distressed to accept her past lover and friend's death especially now she'd found a new love and said gently as the truth finally sunk in for him. "He's dead Meg."
Joan hearing Meg's reply and Casey's words started to smile … the final pieces had fallen together and she knew why she'd been so protective about her lover, when she'd caught her at the computer and said very quietly. "No. He's John." She heard Sara's shocked and puzzled gasp, and was surprised by her husband's whispered. "Yes" as Meg started to speak again.
Meg's tone was gently firm and clear as she looked into Casey's eyes hoping he would understand as soon as she spoke her words. "No Casey, he is and always will be my Soulmate, husband and the father of my child. My tears are for his brother who he loved in spite of all the pain." She smiled at the surprise on Casey's face as the words started to sink in.
Feeling lighter in his soul Casey gasped remembering things he had seen then voiced his thoughts as the full significance of them settled into place. His voice was understandably shaking with emotion to start off with. "When I was at the interview I saw a wedding photo on the table … Paul and Val were in a horse drawn carriage. … Someone down the corridor asked about Meg but the door was closed quickly to hear the rest. … When I glanced back at the table the photo had gone. … You mentioned Paul once and commented it was a common name and never his partner's name. … I thought it was just you doing it by yourself … But it wasn't … you were both were bringing us home for the birth of your son. Oh Meg!" He smiled with pure delight as he finished and gave her a gentle hug.
As Joan felt Hanks arm around her shoulders tighten she said quietly. "Don't be cross, they deserve happiness." and was surprised by his quiet gentle reply. "You're right they do and we will be there for them this time."
The ripple of surprise went round the congregation as Meg's words sank in and Jude who thought nothing more could surprise him about these brothers and was standing near Tim turned to Jack for confirmation.
Jack nodded and made sure he spoke to both of them as he explained and apologised. "Sorry we could not tell you before. But we needed you to take the right steps to get the knowledge so they could not wriggle out of the charges. If the letter could not be used in court we hope the evidence that you found from it would. Also the vipers in the nest might have sensed things they were on edge and would have caused trouble and that is the last thing either of the twins wanted."
Jude nodded finding that was all he could do for the moment as he mind starting to rush over possibilities. Tim nodded and smiled understanding Meg's avoidance as they talked during the morning and felt relief that something good had come of the whole thing.
There were three gasps of "No, she's lying" which were quickly stopped by the police officers and Tyus got up and spoke, knowing everyone would trust his word. "Yesterday Robert flew me over to Meg's home and I identified John as Ben Evans. We took a photo as proof he is alive." and took out a photo of them all outside the stables and passed it with the others help over to Jude. As it was passed over the people looked and smiled noting the difference in the twin.
Hank looked towards the door expectantly and Tyus guessed he thought Ben would walk in now the danger was over and said. "Hank, Ben cannot travel." then looked across to Jack knowing he would take up the story.
Jack nodded and said, "I rescued him from a very bad traffic accident, which killed his jailers. My family and I have been looking after him ever since. Once we knew some of his past we knew it was too dangerous for the truth to be known so he became John Smith and legally protected. Then by a strange twist of fate Meg found us and on the day Derek was murdered we found just how strong the twin's connection was. Ben collapsed into unconsciousness calling Derek's name, apparently he held Derek as he died in the lounge of Ocean Drive, though he didn't see Tess he later he remembered he'd smelt her perfume in the room. He knew it was not a common brand and who supplied it so we checked and found she'd bought some recently.
Because we didn't know what happened only that Derek was in trouble Meg immediately rang Robert who went to investigate and came across Jude and the truth. Yesterday morning Robert rang us with details about Tim's arrest and from what Hank told us John knew that both Tim and Derek with the children were going to flee for their lives from Tess and Maria. We will never know whether Derek would have told Tim the whole truth but we do know that Tess killed Derek on Maria's orders. And it was John's suggestion to check Tess's cell calls because he knew about the two masts and that proved her guilt and Tim was being set up.
Then Derek's letters to Meg arrived and we found out about Maria's true betrayal and Derek's request that Meg to become their avenging Angel. I offered to take her place but she wanted to come so you would understand that they both forgive Derek. You need to hear the whole story to understand the twins but one thing I can tell you now is that John wanted his brother to have love and happiness in spite of the pain he was caused."
Antonio's voice cut in gently "I think close family and friends should adjourn to another room to hear the story. But first, after the prisoners have left, I would ask for a moment of pray for Derek. We know he has done many bad things in his life but I think you will agree with me for the months that we knew him he not only loved his children but also carried on the good things his brother did and it is right we should mourn for the life that was taken away."
It only took a moment for the prisoners to be led out and the congregation to come to order. Meg stood beside Derek's coffin as Antonio said the pray and when he had finished she turned slightly to it and said gently as though talking to him, though everyone could hear the words. "Ben loved you and wanted you to be happy and you were for a while. You called to him and he held you and forgave you as you died. I have willingly done as you asked and your children will be safe. If Ricardo and Gabi cannot look after them then Tim will, and we will not forsake or forget them and they will know of your love. From your brother and I rest with love and peace."
Antonio walked over to Meg and said quietly "Thank you." and then took her arm, Casey followed and as they made their way down the aisle their friends and close acquaintances got ready to follow them.
Meg stopped as she came level with her father suddenly feeling guilty especially as they had argued over love and trust and said. "I'm sorry Dad …"
Her father put a hand on her arm and interrupted her. "Meg Evans I am proud of you. We will talk later after everything has been explained."
She smiled seeing the truth and love in his eyes and her mother's and nodded and knew everything would be all right and started walking again. She heard whispered words from Casey to Sara as she joined the group.
As Jude and Jack reached the corridor Jude asked. "So if I had asked Meg about her husband what would you have said?"
Jack hid his smile as he answered. "The truth and sworn you to silence, but you saw the ring and thought it would be embarrassing to ask about a husband when you were dealing with the death of the other one."
Jude smiled, "Umm knew you were good at your job by your credentials, so I should have paid more attention to the phones trace then."
Jack admitted with a smile. "Yes I was hoping you would not ask how we got their numbers."
Jude nodded and asked. "Was it your idea about arresting them at the funeral?"
Jack chuckled. "No it was John's idea though I suspect that's what Derek had in mind when he wrote the additions to the Will."
Jude gave gentle chuckle and said with respect. "Those twins were good." Then stopped suddenly remembering and exclaimed. "Hell! The press statement I need to change it. Can't let them start without me!"
Jack smiled and before Jude flew off said. "Just say the women have been arrested for Derek's death and Ben is alive story will follow. He wants Vanessa and Bette to tell it this side and a friend their side."
Jude nodded already thinking something up to tell them.
oxoxo
A Nun came into the Chapel and knelt in pray near the coffin, there were only two people from the congregation who were sitting quietly in their seats.
AJ had his arm round Bette's shoulders as they sat reading the letter Mandy had given her just before she had guided Annie out.
Dear Aunt Bette
I know I can never undo the harm my brother has done on what should have been the happiest day of your life.
If you have heard or read the letter Derek wrote before he died then you will know that he and I hold the same degree of love and respect for you - a loved aunt and friend. There was no pretence that day in how he felt or how I would have felt if I had been there, so please remember that day with happiness and joy.
Before I left I noticed a look of joy when you were in AJ's company if this is what has grown into love then I know it is something very special and you are very happy.
As for my story you will hear it from Jack, he would have come on my death but instead I found a second chance of life and then Meg and happiness. I had already decided that once Meg's family had arrived he should come and tell the truth regardless of the outcome. I did not want her family to have to live with the hidden truth any longer than they had too, but events happened.
I meant no disrespect to Mark or the others my brother killed or to anyone in Sunset Beach as I let my brother live my life. Perhaps selfishly I wanted him to have a chance of the happiness and love I was finding, and my parents wanted him to have. Robert kept an eye on things, he and Jack would have moved in if anyone was in danger, though having said that I failed my brother in that respect. Part of me wonders if that was meant to be. At least he is at peace and no one can hurt him anymore and his children will be safe to grow up knowing love and the whole story about their father.
I have recovered as much as I will do, as I'm unable to travel in a motorised vehicle I will have to let my family travel without me, perhaps that is my punishment. I have good friends who are willing to be around all the time, Meg will have her family around her and she will be free to visit her friends when ever she wants too.
You've met Jack and Mandy, her daughter and husband are my carers no doubt you will get to know them better as my story is told, they have been very kind and I love them.
I hope that after the anger and sadness you rightly feel you will forgive me and find your way over to my new home and family.
As you can see Meg is very happy please forgive her, her lies on my behalf. She is my soulmate and has my love and I treasure hers forever.
Please give AJ my regards and apologies for everything. I hope he understands and forgives me.
With love and hope
Ben.
Bette folded the letter and silently rested her head against AJ feeling his warmth and hearing his gentle words. "There is nothing to forgive he did what was right, you know that."
She gave a gentle nod of her head then said. "I know and I'm glad he did it. In a strange way he gave his brother a chance to become whole and be at peace. I want to see him once we've sorted everything out and his family are settled." She moved away from him and looked at him and said with half a smile regardless of the tears that were staining her cheeks. "Lets find the others before the story has been told after all I do have a column to write."
AJ smiled admiring his wife's attitude and said gently. "This one will be written with love and understanding."
"Oh yes and very long." Bette finished with a smile as she got up and started to walk out. But then turned round and walked towards the coffin and looked at the sleeping figure and said sadly because of his loss not hers. "If Meg and your brother can forgive you then I forgive you … rest in peace." She felt AJ beside her and turned tucked her arm in his and walked out of the Chapel to find the others.