Chapter 62
Meg glanced over at her sister who was sitting near her as the giggles and crashing of toys behind her got louder. As Sara didn't move from looking out the window she smiled and convinced herself - her sister would really move if necessary - and went back to reading and writing her email.
Hi Robert
Hope you are all okay where ever you are, we are fine.
I promised to let you know how things are going and my thoughts. First one is it feels strange not having to put in the coding disc or mind what I say.
Another my … no our dream is slowly coming true, our love … well … I did not think it possible but it has deepened and we are getting used to having our family around us.
I say our family not mine because unknown to me till recently Ben has always thought of them as his adopted family (that's not taking anything away from Mandy and Jack; he is definitely closer to them and always will be). When did he feel like that … well from the first time he met Mum apparently … that seems like a life time ago ... and it didn't wavier not even after Dad yelled at him or then decked him when first meeting Benjy at Ocean Drive … No, Ben just put it on hold waiting till the right time ...
I hope I have not tempted Fate admitting that, knowing our history.
Me … I'm getting to know my family again and realise just how much I've missed them… and I don't mean any disrespect to Mandy and her family they have been so good to me.
You were right my family have changed … how can I say this without sounding too judgemental or as if I know everything … which I don't … just as it is I suppose …
Dad always was a good father, but the man I'm now seeing is better I don't know whether that is because we see each other as adults, equal to each other … due to events and time away. Or the therapy he had has enabled him to relax and realise he had and has nothing to prove or protect; he was and is loved because of who he is.
Of course it could also be because I have grown up in the meantime so see it through adult eyes.
Whatever it is, I see him with Mum and know their love is stronger than before; it must have been strong to have survived us lot and his doubts. … He has that equal love for Sara as well and she knows it and trusts it. I see him with Casey and see two men bonded together with friendship and respect. With the twins a dotting Grandfather but able to stand back when needed. Lastly but by no means least I see him with Ben the friendship is tentative, but with understanding and respect and will grow.
As for Mum well she is her loving non-judgemental self and someone I can talk to, though there are things I find I can not tell her so I talk to Mandy and Jackie and I know she understands this and accepts it ... she even told me it was okay.
Sara and Casey have changed a bit … guess that comes with being parents and having new responsibilities, having said that Sara has joined me in our girls' night out. We had one the other night, which included the gang from the offices as well as Jackie and Val … oh yes … adding Sara to the mix made life very interesting indeed!!! and will be repeated as often as possible.
I did wonder if Simon would be jealous of Casey and Ben's friendship but they are growing together in a threesome … can't say that really as Paul and Stephen are also included in the group. Well you saw for yourself how well Ben and Casey clicked back together … as though the months of separation never happened. But they did and have been discussed in quiet moments.
Of course Mum and Dad get on really well with Mandy and Jack so you could say we are merging into one big family with extra friends on the side. (Just looked at that and laughed it sounds like a meal with extras you get in a restaurant. But you know what I mean.)
That's enough about thoughts …
I will admit it was quiet after everyone left and I'm glad the leaving was staggered in days rather than hours, and now as the days pass we are back to being just one of the crowd rather than a news item. Tyus has booked up an autumn break already and that does not include the break he intends to take when John is christened … I think it's going to be a bit crowded then, Mat will come with family of course.
Okay quiet might not be the right word especially as the twins are around and Sara is still bubbly. Can't make up my mind whether the twins take after her or she takes after the twins.
Help!! She read that bit.
It's okay Susan needs attention so I can carry on.
And we have a new routine to get used to.
Before I say anymore I hear you've not been back to SB and have finally let the acting Manager have his head. I hope it's not because of the events surrounding Derek's death, Sunset Beach is a beautiful place and we owe you such a lot.
I guess it means you will be in Seattle or Boston a lot more, mind you if Sue and family have anything to do with it I think we'll be seeing you again soon I heard something about weekend breaks as well as winter and cross country skiing. Yoyo comes to mind. LOL
Just to say the obvious.
Sara and the twins are with me and we are in one of my favourite places, upstairs looking over the stables and down the pathway. The twins are trying out the play area and toys so as you can imagine its noisy lots of giggles and bangs. We are waiting for the men to come back from their morning ride, sun is shining of course. I said men I should say gang, as Mum and Jackie are with them Val would have gone but she is overseeing a meeting regarding the alterations to the Swimming Pool … her turn will come tomorrow no doubt.
So onto us … we have had a few tears - don't get worried the tears were good.
The other visitors came on Saturday and stayed for a few days, hence the tears and my knowing about your absence from SB … they also told me they miss you being around, I thought you should know. Mandy and Jack were our main hawks for the day and met them at the airport so they knew what to expect when they arrived here.
As you might expect things got a bit tense as we waited … But it was beautiful to see Bette and Ben together. They met on the hotel lawn rather than the sunken garden (all the guests were out so it was private not a peep show, Mum and Dad met her and AJ later) AJ, Jude and Annie were there as well of course and Charles came for the day.
The exact spot … one of your favourites … come out of the conservatory doors and on to the flat area where you've got across the top of the valley as a backdrop. The sun was in the right place and stayed out so showed the valley off to them, later it ducked behind heavy clouds and showed them how moody it can look.
You know I don't think I've every seen Bette so emotional - tears and very bubbly at the same time, and yes she ran to Ben and no they did not tip over … well she managed to slow before she got to Ben … Shep came up to her first as a kind of buffer. You know I think they've both got their acts off to perfection now. … Umm should not have said that Ben might tip over next time.
Of course he didn't sweep her of her feet, instead she tucked into his embrace beautifully - I know that feeling so well - and don't begrudge it one bit. We all left them 'alone' for a moment … okay a big moment … then AJ went across and had a few words. Yeah they shook hands then hugged as well.
You know I'm going to hate myself for admitting this but I'm beginning to like Annie.
Ummm did I really say that?
Strange she was shy of Ben … stayed beside Jude while they talked and it was not till Ben actually put his hand on her shoulder that her reserves broke down and she went into a hug. … Yes it was tearful and I admit he cried as well but he'd had tears with Bette as well so fair's, fair… perhaps the tears were for Derek as well … she was in her way close to both of them.
Sigh … I must be truthful … I was a little bit jealous … okay a lot … but I told myself off and was okay after that. … After all I have him for a life time she does not.
Jude left them for a moment came and joined me on a bench and we had a good chat. … Oh yes, those benches are still there and don't tell Bob but they are useful - Ben and Annie sat on one for a long chat.
Outcome of the talk … well something amazing … Annie wanted Derek and Ben remembered in Sunset Beach in a positive way and as brothers not enemies or victims.
I don't suppose you know but The Deep is going to be revamped the owners want to give it a new image, Jude told me they wanted to get Maria's influence out of the building, they know Ben designed and built it … well had it built … so they want to keep the name. The Java Webb will stay the same, that was all Ben and like The Deep in time the owners will be the ones talked about not past one. Believe it or not Ocean Drive has a family in it all ready, they have a boy and girl about ten and twelve and a couple of dogs. Yep Bette gave us the low down says they are nice, also said Sunset Sister is doing well and some new stuff is appearing, which is good to hear.
Back to Annie and the Gallery … the shop area is doing very well … She knew Derek always hoped the gallery part would be used to help the kids in the college … sort of first step on the ladder and display their work as well as having umm I was going to say proper artists but I think I mean established and or even famous ones. But Maria stopped that idea, she wanted her work and some more established local ones, though she apparently promised that once they had a reputation she would think about the college students showing there. It was her project so Derek's ideas had to take the back seat.
Well now the idea is going to be taken up and Ben's going to help.
He's going to finance the scheme, which hopefully will be self supporting eventually; all types of art not just painting will be shown. Works would be sold of course, with Annie and staff providing the administration back up. Well, we all know that first step into the outside world is the biggest and show space is hard to come by. The established artists again all types and may not just be American, though, I doubt there will anything way out or big … it is after all only a small gallery. Having said that, Annie reckons they can hang about fifty paintings … must say that sounds a lot. I suppose they can use the stairway as well.
Needless to say it will have a Web site and she was talking about a large van, I don't whether that was for travelling exhibitions or just from the college to gallery. I would think the college would have transport … anyway Jude said something about chipping in as well if needs be.
The name of the gallery is to be changed to The Evans Brothers Gallery … they played with the idea of The Evans Twins Gallery but that sounded a bit of a mouthful and Derek and Ben Evans Gallery did not have quite the right ring to it either apparently and she didn't want it to stay as The Gallery. The students and or teachers are going to be asked come up with the design and making of the sign etc. In the window by the entrance they will have photos of both, one each side of the name as they were just before he died. That seems odd seeing it in print … I mean recent photos of them.
Of course Derek will be named and shown first this was his project, sort of, he was the first twin and it will be his memorial, there will be booklets about the exhibits and have their history but not in too much gory detail.
I think is a lovely idea for Annie to work on, apparently she was standing in the gallery wondering what to do with it and remembered the conversation. It was empty Maria's stuff has been put in permanent store under Ricardo and Antonio's care. Hopefully with Ben's backing it should not fail in the early stages and should manage to attract the more established 'artists' as well even if they are just the local ones.
Annie saw the photo over the fireplace of Derek with Benjy and Samantha sitting on the bench and asked if that could be the one to be used. We made a copy and had it framed and then took a new one of us in the sunken garden for Ben's, – I know he says I look good, but I still think I will look better holding baby John in my arms and with my figure back so hopefully we can change it later. Oh doesn't that sound vain! … Umm there is the other point … do we alter our photos as years go by or do we keep them as of now sort of frozen in the time of his death and the new idea. Guess we'll have time to think on that one.
We sounded Dad out as well and he liked the idea and Annie's telling Ricardo so it will not come out of the blue so as to speak. My only reservation … will people be on a villain trip and want to hunt out the highlights so never let him or the story rest in peace … as we want him to …
Jack thinks if the booklet is done low key it should be all right. What do you think?
While Jude got to know Ben he discussed and took a statement regarding Tim's application to adopt Abby, which as you can guess we supported. Mum and Dad also made one out. Still find it hard to think of Ben supporting Tim considering their history but hey, what about this then Annie and I managed to talk without fighting … Wow! …
Seriously she's going to take a while to get over everything as will Bette. …
Yeah and the rest of us … Sara admitted to me the other day it's the fact that no one saw the red flag waving in September 1999 that really bugs them (and me). They say hindsight is a wonderful thing, don't really think so. Looking back it should have been obvious to anyone … everyone that something was wrong. I mean why would 'Ben' go back to his wife having gone through hell to try and stay with his soulmate. … Of course my walking out on the real Ben before he went to Seattle did not help matters at all.
Well as I know how they feel I also know they will get over it, especially as they have seen and talked to him. As you can guess some of the talks were between just the three of them and he was sitting in the middle … Brave lad.
Of course, time and normality helps, they have AJ and Jude's love to help them get there. By the way you are right Jude and Ben get on very well together.
Yes I guess Annie is okay (in small doses). Mind you she did tell me not to make Ben unhappy or she would hunt me down. LOL
They of course went sight seeing between chats etc, they also brought with them a couple of pictures drawn by Benjy but more special was a note saying 'Thank you very much, love Benjy and Sam' that was for the videos and still photos of Derek. Ben wrote back and hopefully this will be a start of them getting to know each other. Ricardo wrote a longer letter explaining they'd shown them one of them. As you know they were listed and Benjy chose the very last one taken to watch and apparently he talked about the school trip he'd been on the next day after he saw the tape. He'd been saving it up to tell Daddy as promised and felt he could do so as his dad was on the screen.
That must have been tough all round but Ricardo says Benjy seems to be a bit more settled now, which is good. And he can watch the other videos any time he wants to. They thought even though Samantha could not understand it all she should watch so Benjy understood she was not excluded. I think they might keep her away next time though poor thing could not understand why Dada did not come out of the screen or come to her when she called. … That must have been very difficult for them to make her understand or calm her down. Otherwise she is coping and she has a sister and brother to distract her and Benjy's got two sisters to distract him.
Ricardo says they are staying in the house and having alterations done around them. Having words with Bette and AJ and it's a big thing for Ricardo to talk about but he admits he and Antonio are finding things difficult … he more than Antonio … not surprisingly really considering his history with Ben, and of course he took on family responsibilities when their father died. Antonio of course looked up to all three being the youngest in the family and its good he's now close to Ricardo also the other Fathers at the Mission are taking him under their wings. I also had a chatty letter from Gabi saying in spite of such a big change they are doing okay though they have very little 'quiet time' – yep can understand that one – also people have been good to them on the whole.
As I said Charles came as well … good to see him … Ben enjoyed his chat legal and otherwise and he'll come another time with the family but time is tight. He brought news about the women … they were making things difficult and asking for 'birth right' visits from the children especially as Samantha's birthday is due very soon. As you can guess he is drawing up legal petitions to prevent it, we have yet to hear how it's going.
Oh yes about Sara and the Lodge.
Umm well as you can guess Sara loves not having to clear up or do the washing, loves having meals 'out' as in a walk across the lawn or have them sent over if they are feeling lazy, (before she looks round and reads it … yes Casey enjoys it as well … she's not a bad cook just has lapses from time to time) and of course there are the offers of babysitting not just Mum and Dad either. Well we all knew Jack had a soft heart under that hard Police Chief exterior! then there's that swimming pool downstairs … just too tempting so they are going to stay in the Lodge till as she says the children grow up and then move out. Of course she's yet to realise there will be guest in there as well, first lot due next week.
Perhaps I should get you to have a word to her about kids and them growing up. Hope yours are being kind to you. Not too many late nights, I guess instead of tears or diaper changes it's banging doors as they come in late or early in the morning or you finding the fridge empty because of late night feasts, loud music and then of course there are the emergency sleepovers! – Still chuckling over that one.
Mum and Dad are thinking about the Parkers' place it's on the corner of The Grove two roads down from the Church, a beautiful four bedroom house and an amazing garden especially when the leaves change their colour. They (as in the Parkers) came over yesterday morning and said they will be moving to the next State to be with their daughters and want it to go to a good family. That made Mum laugh, they also said one of their downstairs rooms is very large, airy and has glass doors opening into the back garden. There is a shed large enough to stable a horse for a short time if need be … Mind you they never saw the shed back home or at SB, perhaps they can get a second one put up. It was lovely that they thought about of Ben being able to visit family.
So we are waiting on that Mum and Dad may visit tomorrow.
Talking about visits though and I'm not banking on it … well not for this year anyway … a hotel across the valley is having alterations done and Val's little group is going to do the design etc. The ground floor is going to be used for disabled visitors, one suite of rooms is very large and she is going to try and keep it that way. The hotel has access to a stable next door and will accept guide and alert dogs also is on the edge of town. So perhaps we might be able to go for our holiday after all. Yes I know that either Sara etc or Jackie etc will come with us but that's okay they can always stay in our sister hotel if needs be.
Yes the new family are getting used to the idea of being hawks; actually I think the experienced hawks will eventually turn into friends as time goes on but at the moment they are definitely hawks to both of us. Back to the new ones, they all found it a bit unsettling at first having someone around Ben all the time but once they realised that what is heard by the experienced hawks is 'forgotten' or not talked about they were okay. Of course they've got to get used to that kind of treatment as well. I must admit I find it a bit hard to treat them the same way we treat Jackie. Umm that sounds wrong but I think you know what I mean. Perhaps we will never treat them the same way because they are family and there will always be that guardedness.
Before you think it has been all sweetness and light our 'volcano' has erupted, not a huge one but big enough to put everyone on their guard. Yes someone stepped over the line on a bad morning and yes it's still - he sits and I or whoever walks out. I did think of sending the twins in first to test the water but seemed unfair, nope not going to say on whom, but things got sorted out and now everyone knows the ground rules for if or when it happens again. LOL
As I said earlier Dad and Ben have been getting to know each other and that includes just sitting near to each other in silence looking across the valley. Which is good, Mum has admitted to me she has always had a soft spot for Ben (who can blame her) and they have been having little chats as well.
I'm feeling very happy because Bob came by and gave Ben another check up and the results are good, though we now know Ben will have to carry on having either early nights or baby sleeps in the afternoon as he calls them. That is fine by me as I have the afternoon ones and no we don't have them together … one is on the sofa the other on the bed. Of course, whoever wakes first watches till the other one wakes and I love watching him sleep. It makes me remember just how lucky I am. His nightmares are not so bad and becoming less frequent again. … Best of all, that smile is coming back … yes he still has quiet times and finds the family group over whelming some of the time so needs space but that's fine we all expect that and will find our way around it.
To be honest I find I need space now I'm not working and I have quiet times as well … there are a lot of things to think about … One of the things I've realised is that during the earthquake I came face to face with the real Maria or Dana, as I knew her - the one 'she' let out to trap Ben and he fell in love with, the one that was/is smothered by greed. The Dana I knew was a gentle person and I can understand how Ben loved and trusted her and I mourn her loss.
On to Casey I guess Mat has told you the latest development about working on Conservation Developments, if it does go ahead and I think it will, he is going to share the office at the Hardware Store (mind you from what I see of Ben and Casey together recently I doubt if there will be much work done!) and it will be part time as he wants time to share with the whole family. Just a thought as Ben is part time and so is Casey their shifts at the Hardware Store might not be together so some work might get done. OH don't you dare tell them I wrote that!
Dad has shown an interest in the Hardware and Smithy complex … should be interesting. Mum is happy, well being Mum to us all and chatting with Mandy … umm half an hour chat turns into an afternoon session, but time will tell. Sara seems to be happy just being mum and sister at the moment which is good.
So I guess we are settling down one thing we do know our time together is more important than jobs. Hey, it's not as though we are broke especially as someone who will remain nameless is still 'playing' with ideas as Simon once said.
There is a possibility that Simon will have more freedom after all Casey is a fully qualified lifeguard so hopefully he will be able to go out riding with Ben possibly even by themselves. They go as a threesome when time permits on short easy rides … well Casey is still feeling his way, so is Dad come to that. LOL yep feeling stiff and sore afterwards … should not laugh I hope to ride once John is born.
Unfortunately the School has not relented but Ben will no doubt be in the stables when the kids are around but we will have to tread carefully as we don't want the rides to stop all together.
Paul is revamping the nightclub and is unstoppable!!!!! especially as he has been told unofficially that things are looking good and he should get the all clear in a month's time. The police investigation is on going and they won't tell us the details. Paul and Val have found a house and moved in, its six months rental with an offer of a buy after that. So we are getting used to them not being around and Val is very happy now she's working with her group and new trades people and of course there is no family pressure.
Back to me … sure I'm getting bigger, … fidget is well getting fidgety and I can't wait for the birth. I know months away yet … Of course I'm getting all the horror stories from Sara but I gently remind her I'm only having one and she smiles sweetly and said hidden twin but I'm not that big and they checked, still only one. The twins well they are educating me in all the tricks of the trade as well … so poor old fidget when born will not stand a chance. – I know, who am I kidding!
Writing that reminds me of the snapshot we all missed and you would have loved … lounge area and was Ben reading the twins a story – it must be his voice - once he got started they stopped fidgeting and settled down and eventually dropped off to sleep. One each side of him tucked into a cuddle with the book on his lap and yes he managed to turn the pages over, guess what Shep at his feet asleep as well his nose resting on Ben foot. … Sara's no fool, so I guess we will just have to wait camera close by for another time and yes there will be other times you should have seen the gleam in Sara's and Casey's eyes.
The new Chief decided to do a job share rather than go back to his old stamping ground!!! which amused and pleased Jack. Yep he's with the riding group at the moment so is Mandy. Plans for his retirement party are in full swing the whole town is involved. You know the date so come with the family … you know we can put you up if the hotel can't … that applies to any time. Oh yeah party will be at the hotel and police station so bring ear plugs if you want to sleep.
Give love to everyone from all of us and take care.
Meg.
"Hey Meg! I guess we should start thinking about food and drinks." Sara said as she saw the group ride into view.
Meg laughed and gently teased, "You never stop" and sent her mail off.
Sara stretched and exclaimed in a pout "That's not fair" then stopped and just stood and watched then said gently. "You know I never realised just how good Casey looked on a horse."
Meg gave a soft laugh, Sara turned and looked at her sister and shook her head. "Okay they both look good and tomorrow I'm going with Val and Jackie so you can have the twins.
"Oh gee thanks!" Meg said in mock horror, knowing full well she'd have her mother to help and if she twisted Ben's arm very gently he'd stay around. A thought struck her and she gave a short sharp laugh making her sister look at her before she started to pick the twins up to take them downstairs.
Meg looked at her and shook her head then took a deep breath sort of explained. "I was remembering Shep and the twins."
Sara smiled remembering the incident and exclaimed "Yeah he's good, but I bet you they get him retrieving their toys soon." She picked up one twin and exclaimed looking at the guilty party in her arms. "Hey, madam, you wriggle, you fall okay!"
It was greeted by bright eyes and another giggle, but then Susan stilled as if knowing she should be good and her brother was going to be picked up. Which he was, quickly and easily tucked under the other arm so they were both secure and knew it, for the trip downstairs.
It still amazed Meg how her sister managed the pair so easily and that they could behave when really necessary; of course other times they were terrible in a charming way, unless you were trying to round them up. Yeah and they knew it so would split up and at a fast rate of knots crawl under the nearest tables or chairs and sit and wait, of course once they knew how to ….
Sara got to the top of the stairs to go down and called back "Dreamboat! food and drinks are downstairs and we've to get them no hawks!"
Meg laughed and followed her sister.
oxoxo
That afternoon Meg sat quietly watching Ben sleep; she had been woken by fidget and knew she needed to take a walk to get comfortable again. But she stopped when passing the sleeping area and sat for a moment, now she got up to continue her journey as fidget well was fidgeting again. She went over and very gently kissed Ben on the forehead before walking towards the bathroom. She smiled as she passed Shep who looked asleep, but his tail was the give away as it wagged and she wondered if he'd been faking it or perhaps he had been worn out … what with the ride and then the twins.
The door from the garden area slide open and Meg's smile grew bigger because her mother came in with a tray of cakes then she jumped when she heard a gentle remark from the sleeping area "I hope they are lemon curd or strawberry Joan."
Meg resisted the temptation to turn round, she'd been so sure he'd been deeply asleep when she kissed him …but that was not a sleepy remark or observation … so he was getting sneaky and she'd better watch out.
Joan looked across and laughed as she answered "Both actually Ben, like tea to go with them. Everything okay Meg?" she'd seen the smile go to thoughtful in the couple of seconds.
Meg brightened and answered immediately. "Yes thanks, been baking then?"
Joan made her way over to the kitchen area as she spoke. "No just overseeing the hotel chef, Mandy liked mine and wanted to add them to the menu. We'll be in the garden when you come out I assume." Guessing where her daughter was heading.
As Meg disappeared into the bathroom she yelled out. "I need to check mail in case Robert's written." Yeah if he was that much a wake he could do it for her.
Leaving the sleeping area Ben called back "Fine we'll eat in." then he carried on to Joan with a slight tease in his voice. "You know Joan you're making a very good hawk you're timing is soo good and goodies as well."
He walked over to the kitchen area and as soon as Joan turned away to make the tea he sneaked a cake and took a bite.
Filling the kettle and not looking round Joan exclaimed. "Hey! that's cheating Ben."
With a mouthful Ben said "Oh I see eyes in the back of the head too."
Joan laughed, "No, just know you."
Ben smiled and huffed and finished his cake then went over to the dining area and dealt with the computer so it would be ready for Meg when she appeared, and commented. "Umm these are not bad but yours have a special touch." Joan chuckled at the complement as Ben continued. "So any after affects from this morning's ride." Remembering it was slightly longer than her last one.
"No … okay just a little stiff but not sore … I like Beauty she's an easy ride so I think I'll stick with her from now on." Joan continued to make the tea and when it was ready poured theirs out and took it to the table for them and said. "I'll be over there while you and Meg read the mail; Sara will be along later the twins have taken a leaf out of your book and taking an afternoon nap which means they will be full of themselves for the rest of the day."
Ben smiled and nodded knowing it was her turn to be around as Simon was out on a ride, in some ways he was frustrated that he needed his hawks so much and his new family had to turn into hawks rather than just being there. But he also knew they were watching out for Meg as well. After all, he'd unwittingly proved that he could not be relied on, his mind still froze in times of stress and there was one thing he could not cope with and not likely to in the near future. Stairs ... and Meg liked to go up them up to her quiet area. It was so simple and so stupid of him - he'd felt normal – they were all here, no history to be uptight about and Meg was upstairs by herself and there'd been a loud bang - she'd dropped something - but there had been silence afterwards. He'd been close to the stairs and moved automatically to go up to see what had happened. But he froze and had flashbacks when he'd gone up three or four steps up and Hank who'd seen it had been there to catch him as he went down the quick way. Meg had been all right and the others had been around and been good made little fuss of the matter but he'd deserved Mandy's chastising that he should have known better. But it had been the first time he'd forgotten what he could not do; now he knew he could not forget, he'd have to always think before acting. So now they were watching him, yeah like hawks for the next time, but also they were watching out for Meg and he wondered if he would ever get back to normal….
A cake being sneaked off of the plate and that oh so innocent smile from Meg stopped his thoughts … except for one - he loved her - and gently shook his head and eyed her as if tell her off and said softly. "They are good but you or your Mum's are better." then added with a look. "There is one from Robert do you want to censor it first."
Meg had taken a bite of the cake and was trying hard not to laugh at his words or that look he gave her so turned to the computer then found the mail. When she had finished enough of her mouthful to speak she said, "No should not think so." Then added in a tone he'd understand. "That's known as crawling Ben" then glancing back at the plate of cakes commenting. "Umm not bad though … perhaps a second one just to make sure." then added with a smile as she looked at him "I think I saved Sally from a bad day."
Ben laughed and sneaked another cake of a different flavour and started to read with her.
Hi Meg
You just saved my life.
Or Sally's … Just got out from one of those board meetings.
I forgot just how bad they can be … mind numbing was not the word … decided that delegation is definitely going to be my byword from now on.
Bad mood must have shown as I stormed back to my office … Hey I thought I was the boss round here … anyway Sally brave girl called out that you had sent me mail and I should take time out and read it.
She came in with my coffee and two notices - one she slipped on to my phone it said 'Out of order till further notice' and pined a 'don't disturb' notice on my door. That is my side of the door not hers!!!!!!!!!
So I took the hint and opened your mail and loved it. Glad to know you are all settling into some kind of routine … even if it changes … and ideas for the future … very obviously keeping well.
Sorry I missed Bette's visit must have been something and yes I think Annie's idea is a good one. A thought there could be a plaque by Derek's photo giving name, birthday and date he died but not how and just the birthday by Ben's photo to show he is still around … if you see what I mean. It would satisfy the mildly curious, and then have handbooks regarding exhibits free or priced. There will always be people interested in the history of the twins so that information could be given in another priced booklet as you say facts rather than gory details. As for photos they would be the ones frozen in time and I don't see why you can't change it after John's birth, shows the twins family. I well can understand why Annie chose that one for Derek it's beautiful one even without knowing its history.
Glad Ricardo is finding someone to talk to and they as a family are coping.
As you put your thoughts down so I think I should do the same and yes if Ben is looking over your shoulder that is fine.
I know you both feel in my debt but what I did for the pair of you I did out of friendship and I would do again expecting nothing in return … you and I took a leap of faith at the airport … Ben in spite of his past took a huge leap of faith and trusted me when I met him. I have never regretted those leaps of faith, which have turned into deep friendship.
In fact both of you are repaying me by allowing Sue and I to be Godparents to your son. As you know we cannot have children and I love my adopted daughters dearly but I missed their childhood - their real father had that and I do not begrudge him that at all. Now we have a chance to help look after a baby boy (when born) and love him to bits and will happily give him back to you (both) when he cries, that bit is a promise.
So keep well and take care of yourselves and let me know the minute he is born.
Ummm I think knowing the pair of you and life I had better rephrase that and ask that you email me and as soon as it is feasible after the birth.
Hey, I could be anywhere and time zones are so difficult to keep track of – I need my beauty sleep. No comment Meg! Or you Ben come to that. But it also goes without saying use the 24 phone if you need us urgently and we will fly in.
Thinking about kids … umm perhaps I should warn Sara … no perhaps not … Anyway our girls surprised us when we left you, as you know they are a pair of tearaways … hey that is part of growing up but to be honest they were getting pretty hostile to each other and were starting not to talk to us. You saw them at their best and three days after we returned they took us out for a meal. It was to our favourite restaurant not theirs. You know the place I mean and it is hard to get into and you have to book ahead, hence the three days and they were very lucky with that. They have a quintet to play music while you eat and you can book a music slot with the table … they asked for a couple of songs that were special to us ... not up beat stuff they love. Would have loved to have seen everyone's' reaction to their music and the quintet play it come to that.
I must admit I started to wonder what the catch was but there was not any. Instead they thanked us for being who we are and talked about how they felt about each other and what they wanted to do in the future. They also explained that through meeting and knowing your story it made them think and realise they did not need to fight each other or the memories of their father, that we are a family and would help each other regardless and I reassured them the memories of their father were fine by me. It was all in all an amazing meal.
So really I should be thanking you for helping them and us - I now have two daughters who are well behaved - mind you I think they will revert to being tearaways again very soon but the harsh edge will have gone. Sue and I are revaluating our life styles as well so Boston trips will be less often or joint become ventures where possible but one thing I can guarantee is we will be visiting you as much as we can if you will have us in our varying numbers. Will bring ear plugs when necessary.
On to other matters
I should have known Bette would have told you.
True I have not been to SB since Derek's death, as you know part of my life is classified and I can say I've seen some evil things during that time. But what those women did and threw away disturbed me … they had his love … and he gave them a gift of children … and for him that was a huge statement … and they cold heartedly destroyed it all … and for something he would have given them if they had asked.
I will go back when the time is right - possibly a flying visit on Samantha's birthday not necessarily to see them just to be in town at the time. I suspect it will be a quiet affair but on the other hand no one wants Benjy to feel he's being forgotten so I will check to see what is happening and if Hank and Joan would like a flight in as there are no direct flights from you I'll give them a lift from Seattle. They can stay over either side if they want just let me know that included a night at SB if needs be. That is assuming your husband does not book a plane for them to fly direct.
I don't have to worry about the Office at SB I know it's in good hands and what is more he understood and agreed with my reasons when I explained them to him before I left to return with you. – He had been thinking I didn't trust him and was going to have a showdown with me but events intervened … I would have told him part of the truth knowing I could trust him.
As soon as I read your mail I rang Charles (on the cell so as not to disturb Sally's note) regarding the birthday visits and found out things have moved on and they are very unlikely to go ahead. Apparently there was a small court sitting and the Judge asked Benjy if he wanted to see his mother and grandmother and he stated without help from Ricardo that he did not and thought it would be best if they left him and Samantha alone because they killed his father. I believe the Judge will not only look at the petition and heed Benjy's words and make the decision for the years to come as well rather than coming back every year. So it would be till the both become of age and can make their own decisions. Or of course might make it forever which would stop the women from stirring things in future years. Charles will be sending full details as soon as possible.
At that hearing Tim also made a statement on Abby's behalf so that should stop Tess's bid, she is also trying to stall the adoption sighting Tim's past … including his infatuation with you Meg, right down to his parents attitude towards him to prove he is not a suitable person to look after her child. I think she believes that a Judge will free her if she can prove there is no one else to look after Abby but I'm sure she will fail on all counts. A lot of people are coming forward with statements supporting Tim and of course the fact that you both support him means an awful lot.
Unfortunately the women are putting all the blame on Derek saying they were afraid of him as well as being infatuated by him - he cannot answer for himself so we will have to do it for him.
Annie of course is the best person to give statements as to how things were with the families having contact with Tess and Maria through the Gallery and Art shop. It goes without saying Ross will also give a statement but as he is facing charges of being a con-artist so it may be difficult to make the jury believe the truth. I have talked with the man who took the videos and he will make a statement in court of how he saw the families interact – his credentials should stand him in good stead. Other people are coming forward as rumours are spreading about what they are doing.
To be honest though I think the best statement will come from the videos themselves especially the ones of his last days – they all show he was a loving father and in the earlier ones they show the three women happy and without fear. If you and Ben agree a legal copy can be made of the original tapes they have the dates and times on them it would mean a judge or officer of the law overseeing the copying of all the tapes from the camera not the video ones as they were edited. You can insist that the copy tapes be destroyed in front of a reliable witness after they have been shown in court or Judge. Charles reckons they will be able to get it done in closed court so as to protect the children. Think about it.
The other ploy Maria can play is dual personality - as you say Meg 'Dana' was an innocent and surfaced during the earthquake, the person known as 'Maria' certainly is not –of course such a claim will delay the trial as proof will have to be found and she will have to have sessions with a shrink etc.
Unfortunately you knew Dana and so might have to give evidence, ironically on her behalf i.e. proving she is two different people. If so Charles will insist it is via statement or video link and it would be after the baby is born. Of course she would call for statements from everyone who knew her … that would mean Ben having to relive everything but Mandy and Bob can give evidence to protect him. If she does go down that line she could end up serving life in the hospital wing, which no doubt sounds a good option to her as she already knows life will not be easy from them. The even inmates waiting trial have a code and they've broken it so they've been segregated. We for our part will make sure she knows that life in the hospital wing is not an easy option.
Regarding the house in Franklin Street ownership has been secured and plans have been approved to demolish and a secure play area to be erected will let you know how that progresses.
On to better things.
Ben – Mat and I tried out your idea and it worked so I guess we will have to think of what commission you should have … and ways to keep you 'playing' as Simon says not help you to cut back as no doubt they are telling you to. Rest is important.
Well I guess it's back to thinking about that blessed meeting … of course I could just delegate it to my deputy, who I swore had dropped off to sleep, but was too far away to be kicked to find out and let him knock some sense into their heads.
If I don't see you before the birth I will definitely see you after … till then love from us all.
Robert.
As she'd read the bit about Dana Meg felt a shiver run through her and then Ben's hand rest gently on her arm. Now she looked at him and as he gave her a smile she saw his eyes were clouded with pain but his voice was gentle and steady as he said. "We knew they would not go quietly Meg. Charles and the others will make sure things turn out okay. But you'd better print a copy for Jack and I'll talk to him about the tapes" He looked over at Joan and said. "Robert will give you a lift from Seattle for Samantha's birthday if you tell him the times and sleepover either side if you wish as well."
While Joan nodded Meg sighed and set the machine to print and said, "So you've been 'playing' with Mat and Robert" wanting turn her mind away from the thought of having to support Maria's claim in Court and was intrigued about the business deal that had been hatched by the three of them.
Ben laughed, sighed then gently teased knowing she needed the diversion. "Umm well put us three together for more than five minutes and we're a bit like Val, Jackie and Sara anything can happen or be said."
Meg smiled at that comparison and said firmly "Okay give, all of it!" but then started to laugh remembering that girls' night out.
Ben looked at her wondering what she'd thought of and was going to ask and explain when door swished open and Sara came in with very fretful twins in their buggy and called out seeing the people … no the person she wanted. "Ben! thank goodness you're awake Susan needs your voice and attention she's woken up in a really bad mood."
Hearing the real relief in Sara's voice Ben looked at her in surprise and then remembered the other day and sleeping twins and glanced at Meg and then at Joan and shrugged and started to walk over to the lounge area.
Sara didn't need words she was already trying to get out the grizzling, fretful twin out, but it was a bit difficult as she'd seemed to grow an extra pair of arms and legs. Mark on the other hand quietly waited his turn.
Watching, Meg smiled and shook her head wondering if Ben realised he was becoming a hawk to the twins, and looked over at her mother and saw she was also smiling as she got up to get a child's book from the bookshelf at the end of the sofa. … Yes everything else would wait for a while ... and suddenly remembered she might need the camera … now where was it.