ICE SKATING IN THE MOONLIGHT
BEN AND RICKY
As Ben came from the back after having gotten ready for work he took a small bag from his closet and packed another set of clothes and a pair of shoes as well. He wondered what Adrian was up to, when she asked him to get dressed at Ricky's, but he just decided to wait until she told him. He looked at the picture of he and Adrian at their wedding that was sitting on the dresser in their bedroom , and smiled. He was scared that day when they got married and part of him didn't know if they were doing the right thing but once he saw Adrian in her wedding dress, all his doubts went away. He only wished that he had kept that feeling after they lost Mercy but it was too hard.
He felt as though that he and Adrian had gotten off to easy, when they fell in love after sleeping together in their attempt at getting back at Amy and Ricky. However deep down he didn't want to admit then, that if he had to do it all over again he would. Although Amy did hurt him when he she told him about the kiss, he didn't really feel that bad. When Adrian showed up at his car that night and asked if he wanted company, he in a way knew exactly what she wanted, because he wanted the same thing.
He was always attracted to Adrian, but when they became allies keeping Amy and Ricky apart they became more. During that time he and Adrian became very good friends, and he found a confidante in Adrian that he couldn't find in anyone else not even Henry and Alice. Adrian was more mature, experienced, and wiser than anyone else he had ever met. She was also smart, brave, and strong which is something he always wanted to be. Adrian was never embarrassed to speak what was on her mind, nor was she as selfish as some thought she was which intrigued him.
He had to admit unlike Amy, Adrian mesmerized him in a way that no other girl could. He often thought that was why he was so attracted to Maria when they first met, but even though Maria wanted to be with him in that way he couldn't be with her like that. He often wondered why that was until that night he spent with Adrian in the car, he realized that Maria was a substitute and he wanted the real thing. No girl no matter how beautiful, smart, brave, or interesting could hold a candle to Adrian in Ben's eyes.
But, that night he knew that they were together for the wrong reason, and he always believed that something bad would happen from that night. He mainly believed that because he was Italian, and part Irish and both sides of his family were very superstitious. So he was not that surprised when Adrian told him that she was pregnant. He knew the moment that she told him she was carrying his child that he and Amy could never be, which is why he didn't call her back that weekend.
But, even after he and Amy officially broke up when she returned from New York he had to admit, part of him was relieved to be free of their relationship. Amy and he having a relationship was just so stressful and involved way too much drama, but even though his relationship with Adrian had its moments, it came almost naturally to them. Adrian and he shared everything together, their hopes, their dreams, and their fears together. But, part of him knew that just like Amy he kept part of himself away from her just as she did from him because those parts both believed belong to Ricky and Amy.
It was these feelings and the karma of their ill fated night together is why Ben believed that Mercy died and their marriage failed. Ben always believed that he didn't deserve to be this happy with Adrian, after he did something so horrible to a girl he claimed to love, and a friend he claimed to be to Ricky. But, now fate had given him the life he and Adrian was denied if only for moment he would do his best to enjoy this time with the woman he loved and the daughter he never got to know. Ben! Are you ready in there I'm getting bored out here, Ricky yelled.
Yeah, just give me a minute Ben said as he kissed the picture of Adrian and Mercy on the dresser before he grabbed his bag and headed into the living room. So, what took you so long Ricky asked, as Ben grabbed his keys, wallet, and jacket. Just thinking Ben replied as he opened the door and headed to his car. About what, Adrian's gift Ricky replied looking at him with a smile. Yeah, Ben said as he opened the car door and started the engine. Well, do you want to stop by your dad's and get it he asked buckling his seat belt. How do you know where it is Ben asked him wondering how Ricky knew of his secrets. Ben, you showed me the locket and asked if you could hide it in my apartment remember, but I told you that Amy might go snooping for it trying to find her gift, and tell Adrian so we both agreed to hide them at your Dad's mansion since it was too big for either girl to search.
Oh, yeah Ben said, now realizing that in this world since they never had their falling out and both were parents they probably became closer friends. Well, we should go there and get them he said starting the car and turning on the radio. So, are you worried she won't like it or what because your nerves are making you jumpy Ricky said. Yeah, I guess Ben implied. Ben, you're her husband and she loves you, you could give her a stick of gum with a bow on it and Adrian would love it. I don't think she loves me that much, Ben said dryly. Yes, she does Ben, I see the way she looks at you. She never even looked at me like that.
What do you mean Ben asked, looking at Ricky. I mean when Adrian and I were together it was only about her trying to get me to open up to her so she could trust me, but I never did. But, with you she knows she can trust you, and she loves that about you. She, has hope in her eyes when she's with you something I always hated about you two he said a bit jealous. What , Ben asked. surprised at this comment?
I mean you know how I used to warn you to stay away from Adrian when we were dating, he said? Yeah, you didn't like it, Ben responded. You thought we would end up sleeping together which we did. Well you two sleeping together isn't what I was worried about, if that was all then Jack and I would have had a falling out too, he said. Then what was it, Ben asked becoming curious. I was worried Adrian would realize that you were the man she wanted not me, just like Amy realized you were the better man too.
WHAT! Ben asked shocked at Ricky's confession. Come on Ben take a look at what happened he said You were there for Amy when I wasn't. You gave her confidence, courage, and hope, things Adrian needed too. I could do none of that stuff for either of them, I couldn't even stay faithful for Adrian much less help her realize her own potential. But, you thought I could he said. Yes, I did Ricky said. I mean Amy was pregnant with my kid yet you still loved her and refused to let her get an abortion even though it would have ended all our problems. You were willing to step up and be the man I couldn't, I was envious of that.
I wouldn't be that envious Ricky, Ben replied. I mean when Adrian was thinking about getting an abortion, I was just as scared as you were. But, I was scared of losing Amy, but then I realized something when I was in my room waiting for it to be over he said with guilt and pity. What, Ricky asked? That this was my child just as much as it was Adrian's and it was my fault just as much, if not more so than Adrian's. I realized she was doing or going to do that because she was trying to do the right thing, for both of us. She was trying to be brave for both of us and here I was letting her carry on that responsibility by herself, and I couldn't do that to her.
That's when I realized that I had to be there for her because if she was willing to shoulder all that responsibility for me, then I should do the same. Adrian is brave, smart, beautiful, and completely unique and I should have never let her try and shoulder that responsibility by herself he said with a guilty tone. And honestly he continued. That night when we were together was not just about me getting back at you and Amy like others believe. What do you mean Ricky said now puzzled at this statement.
Ricky I was jealous of you for having Adrian and not wanting to just be with Adrian. I mean I saw all those things that she had to offer and you didn't appreciate that. Amy is wonderful, I've always known that, but there is something about Adrian that mesmerizes me, that mesmerizes all men. I mean that night Amy and I had already been broken up, so I knew she would be with other guys, but you. You had Adrian, and to me you shouldn't have wanted any other girl much less a girl who you were already with. Hey, Ricky implied offended by the last comment. You know what I mean Ricky, Ben replied back.
Adrian loved you I mean she really loved you, and that is what made me so angry at you that night because I couldn't understand how someone that perfect wasn't good enough for you. I loved Amy, but I always had doubts about whether or not she loved me Ben replied. She would say she did but I always wondered if she just loved me because I was there for her when she needed someone.
But, Adrian was different when she looks at you and she says that she loves you. Well you know that she means it. That night we were both so hurt and felt so betrayed by what you and Amy did I could tell that she was more hurt than me. So I wanted to take her pain away even if it was only for a moment. If she wanted to use me to get back at you, I didn't care because for one night I would get to feel her next to me, kiss me, and help her for even a moment stop being alone.
I guess that is why you guys ended up with Mercy that night then Ricky said looking at Ben with understanding. What are you talking about, Ben asked. Well, Amy and I had John because of a simple act of teenage hormones, that was the best mistake either of us made, but I always wondered about you and Adrian. Adrian is no fool, and unlike me she is not careless, so I often wondered how, and why was it you that got her pregnant and not me or someone else. Now I know why, he said. Why, then Ben asked still puzzled.
Because Ben, Adrian had always been interested in you even when we were together, and you in her, so I guess you two were fated to be together. Fated, Ben smirked. Well think about it Ben, Ricky said. You used protection, and she was on the pill even despite the odds with Adrian and you on your first time, the fact that you two had something together that neither of you wanted to act on because of me and Amy means it was fate. Fate, Ben said under his breath as he pulled into the gate to his father's mansion, maybe he thought.
As they got out of the car Mike was pulling the limo out of the garage and waved to Ben, and smiled at his former charge. Hey Mike Merry Christmas, Ben said greeting his former driver with a handshake and hug. Merry Christmas Ben how is the wife and child, he asked still feeling a little ackward that Ben, now had a family of his own.
They are both good, and doing fine right now they're out shopping for Christmas. Well, that is nice I hope Santa brings you and your family all that you wish for this year Mike said. Well, Santa already gave me my gift Ben said, he gave it to me the moment he made Adrian, and I a family. Well, then in that case Mike replied I hope he continues to bless you and your family. And the same to you Mike Ben said hugging his him and heading into the mansion.
What was that all about Ricky asked looking at Ben with confusion. What are you talking about Ben, asked. You know what I mean, I have never seen you THIS HAPPY TO BE A MARRIED MAN, WITH A KID, Ricky said. Well, I am happy Ben replied. Ben, I know you love Adrian and Mercy, and you also like having a family but you are only eighteen and usually even you are not happy about being tied down this soon in life Ricky replied. That's because Ricky I had a look at what my life would be like without Adrian and Mercy. Annnd? Ricky questioned. It was lonely.
Really sometimes I wish I could go back to the days when I could just go off on my own Ricky said. I love my family John and Amy, but there are times when I miss the solitude of being on my own he said kind of relieved to get it out. Well, everybody feels like that Ricky,. Leo said as he came into the living room unknown to Ricky or Ben. But, take it from a man who knows the feeling being on your own for too long gets lonely and at the end of the day knowing you have someone home waiting for you and missing you feels good.
I guess you're right Leo, Ricky said thinking about how he did feel happy when ever he left to take a walk how Amy would be worried about him, and there to comfort him when he walked in. He also thought about how he took off for a week, after he discovered Adrian and Ben slept together. He had to admit that he missed everyone, and was happy when he got back home.
So you boys must be here to collect your gifts, Leo said as he opened the door to his den, and invited both back inside. Yeah, we are I decided that I want to give Adrian my gift tonight he said, happy that his present was still there. Well let me get them Leo said as he opened the safe in his office hidden behind a picture of Sarah. Ben looked at the picture and admired it, he was also thankful for his mother at letting him have this time with his family. He wished that he could also have this wish for his father, but he guessed that with Camille his dad didn't need it.
Then Ben had a thought in his world Betty and his dad divorced because his father realized that their marriage was a mistake. But, he wondered if the same had happened in this world or were he and Betty still together, if so where was Camille. So dad, how is Camille he asked. Oh, she and her family are in Idaho celebrating Christmas she even sent all of us gifts and a post card he said. Really, Ben asked surprised that the same situation had occurred, in this world as it did in his.
Yeah, Leo said taking out the packages and letter Betty had sent to Ben from a closet. I guess this big package is for Mercy Leo said as he pulled it from the closet. The large package was in the shape of a teddy bear and resembled the one Mercy also had in her nursery. I guess Betty wanted the bear she already gave her to have a mate she always did like things not to be lonely Leo said with a smile. And here are two gifts she got for you and Adrian he said giving them to Ben.
That was so nice of her Ben said taking the two smaller packages, and the letter. Well, she does still think of you as her son and Mercy as her grand daughter. To Betty that won't change even if her last name does. Especially as long as Adrian is wearing that ring she gave you Leo said jokingly. Yeah, I guess Ben remarked remembering that it was the ring that started he and Adrian's relationship in the first place, and Betty who saw the potential he and Adrian had as a couple when neither of them would see it.
Well did she get my gift to her Ben asked quizzically. Well she should have received it by now Leo said as he also got two small neatly wrapped gifts from the safe and handed one to Ricky and the other to Ben. So, what did you get her Ricky asked as he took his gift for Amy and picked up the giant teddy bear for Mercy.
I got her a backpack with school supplies for when she starts school and I had a sweater made up of me with my picture on it Ben replied. No, Leo corrected him you had a picture of Mercy on her rocking horse made up and sent it to her I hope Leo said. Yeah, sorry dad I forgot, Ben replied. Realizing in this world with Mercy he would have wanted his daughter on a novelty sweater not himself..
He then hugged his dad, and Leo confirmed with Ben, that he and his family would be at the mansion for Christmas. Ricky assured his dad that Mercy would more than likely not miss being with her Grandpa Leo for Christmas. She had better not Leo said laughing and walked them both to the door. Well, I guess I'll let you guys get to work, but tell me what are you guys doing tonight for Christmas Eve Leo asked. Well we're not sure Ben responded, the girls have something planed, but they're up to something he responded.
Well if they are just let them have they're way when Adrian, and Amy get together they're probably cooking up something very special for the two of you, Leo laughed. Yeah, that's what we're afraid of Ricky stated, with a somber tone. I couldn't agree more Ricky, Ben added. They then said they're goodbyes to Leo and headed to the butcher shop, before they were late and got in trouble with Bunny.
Although Bunny was very maternal towards Ben and Ricky and also understanding of their plight, she never let them forget she was the boss, and work always came first.
Ben, and Ricky arrived at the butcher shop ten minutes before they're shifts began and headed towards Ricky's apartment to put their things away. Ricky looked at Ben and asked if he was feeling okay since he seemed to a bit off today. I'm fine Ben responded I'm just a bit giddy today since its' Christmas eve he answered. Man, you are acting like a kid waiting for Santa then Ricky said as they headed down to begin work.
The day passed fairly quickly and the hustle of customers shopping for meat to buy for their holiday meals brought in lots of business. The day soon slowed down at 4:30, as the shop was close to closing when Ben and Ricky got four unexpected visitors. Hey, how are the only guys who can actually afford good Christmas presents Alice teased as she came into the shop bringing with her Jack, Grant, and Henry. Ben, was surprised to see them especially since Alice, and he had both broken off all contact Henry following his incident with Adrian at the party.
But he figured that in this world that didn't happen and judging from how both Alice and Henry acted with one another they were both still together. So how goes work today boys Henry asked as he stood at the counter and took a piece of meat from the sample tray. Not too bad Ricky said but remember Henry only one sample per customer and don't try and get any other samples to make a sandwich like you did the last time he said with a scowl. Hey, you have samples of bread, meat, cheeses, and condiments its not my fault if I decided to act on the initial suggestion, Henry replied.
Well if you do that again I'm gonna act on my initial suggestion and pound you, Ricky responded. What happened to the customer is always right Henry asked still teasing. It only applies to paying customers Ben, answered back. Come on guys Henry said looking a little saddened what happened to the holiday spirit. Here it is Bunny said as she handed him a neatly made sub, wrapped with a holiday bow. Thanks Bunny, Henry said accepting the gift. Merry Christmas Henry and remember the next time you make a sandwich in this shop I'll charge you and arm and a leg she said slicing a chicken with the meat saw, and looking at him menacingly. I got the hint Henry replied.
So, how come all of you guys are out together Ricky asked looking at the strange group, all together. Well Jack and I are shopping for Madison and Grace, Grant replied. But, Grant didn't trust my opinion of what to get Madison so we invited Alice along to get a woman's perspective, Jack put in. Okay, Ben said taken back now realizing that Jack and Grant were now dating the other's former girlfriend. But, why is Henry with you he asked. Well, Hank didn't trust me alone with Jack and Grant Alice implied,. Looking at Hank with scorn.
I trust you Alice Henry said looking wounded as Alice stared at him, I just didn't want people to talk, with you hanging out with two guys he said. Oh, so you wanted people to talk about me hanging out with three guys then she said. And besides I hung out with you and Ben all the time she said, and no one ever thought anything then. Yeah, but that was because it was just me and Ben. What is that suppose to mean Ben asked a little offended at this comment. Ben, you know what I mean you and Alice are just friends. Well so were the two of us Henry, Alice said looking at him ironically.
Yeah, but we're friends and we would never do something like that to each other he said with pride. I wouldn't be so sure Ben said remembering all that happened between all of them before the wish, sometimes things just happen. Yeah right, Henry said trying to lighten the mood. No one saw the look on Ben's face when he said that comment but Ricky, and Bunny, but both decided not to bring it to light at that time.
It was then that Henry asked if he could talk with Ben privately about another matter. Bunny gave them the okay and both walked outside by the trash. Well what is it Ben asked as he closed the door behind him. I wanted to get your opinion on this Henry asked as he reached into his pocket and brought out a ring box with a gold ring with a small diamond on it. What is that? Ben asked as he looked at Henry astonished. I'm gonna ask Alice to marry me he said looking at Ben with eyes completely full of attention. Marriage, Henry are sure about that Ben asked puzzled how Henry could ask that.
Well, I told you I was worried about me and Alice breaking up when we graduated, because she was going to school and I was gonna be traveling. This way I won't have to worry about any of that stuff. So you think marriage is gonna keep you two from breaking up. I'm not gonna marry her right away this is an engagement ring. This way we can stay faithful to each other and still live our lives without worrying about the other cheating. Henry Ben asked skeptical of his intention do you really believe that an engagement ring is gonna keep you from sleeping with someone when you are away from Alice.
I'm not worried about me Ben he said with worry, I'm worried about Alice. You see how beautiful smart, and fun she is. I'm worried while she is away someone else will see that and take advantage of her. I'm also worried that she will see that she can do better than me while she will be away and literally be surrounded by guys that are better than me. I already worry that some guy at school will take her from me, and I'm there with her now I will be miles, and miles away from her which will give guys the open door to take her from me.
Henry Alice loves you, and how come you have so much worry about her and not yourself still remembering how he felt so betrayed and hurt by Hank's one night stand with Adrian. Because I love Alice and I want to spend the rest of my life with her, she is it for life. I never realized how one person could make your life so complete till I saw you and Adrian, and that makes me want the same with Alice just not now.
Well Hank, Ben said looking at him good luck, and I hope she say's yes, Me too, Hank replied closing the ring and going back inside. Ben, was surprised at all that was happening in this world to both his family, and his friends. He never realized how much of an impact, Mercy's death had on those around him, or her life. He now began to hate this wish that he had made, not because of how it made him feel but because he knew tomorrow night at 12:00 midnight it would end.
As Ben re-entered the shop he saw Jack and Grant showing the gifts that Alice helped them pick out for grace and Madison. Grant was able to buy Madison a beautiful pair of turquoise earrings, while Jack bought Grace a beautiful silver cross. Ricky asked Jack about the gift, since Grace had a lot of crossed, but he informed him that this cross also came with a donation to a good charity attached that was made in Grace's name.
Ricky, knew that Grace would love that, but he asked weren't you guys trying to take it slow this time he said. Yeah, but this is a slow gift, it lets me get in to Grace's good Grace do a good deed and score me points without make it look like I am trying to hard he said. So you want to get closer to Grace without actually getting close to Grace Ben asked confused. Well, yeah Jack said as he put the cross back in his bag. Don't try and figure it out Grant said as he put Madison's gift back in his bag, it will only confuse you. Well we should get going and let you guys get back to work Alice said taking all of them out of the shop.
The rest of the day went as expected the crowds piled into the store the moment 5'o clock came and Ben, Ricky, and Bunny were all swamped, with orders and customers. Each was glad when the clock said seven and it was time to close. Bunny balanced the register, Ricky cleaned the meat display, and Ben swept up. They then packed in all the left over meat put them in a box, unpacked the leftover meat for the homeless shelter.
Ricky decided to take the left over meat scraps to the animal shelter, while saving a big beef bone for Moose. He and Amy although were invited to Leo's for Christmas decided to have a celebration with their own family's at George's. he thought it would be good to celebrate as a family, since he and Amy were getting married. He was also happy that Ashley and Toby were also back for the holidays and she had news for the entire family, which they all hoped was not that she was pregnant or getting married.
It was at that time that Ben and Ricky decided to head up to the apartment and get ready for their dates with Amy and Adrian. Ricky decided to use the shower first since he decided Ben took longer to get ready. Ben again took offense since even Adrian complained about his prep time when it came to getting dressed. Ricky was soon done with his shower and went into his bedroom to get dressed, Ben went in next and was surprised by the hair Ricky left in the drain. When he came out he was putting on his pants when Ricky came out fully dressed. He stopped to ask Ben how he looked for the occasion. Ben looked up and said he guessed he looked okay, but since neither knew where they were going he said that he couldn't be sure. When Ben stood up Ricky was surprised by the muscles Ben had put on, he asked him what was up.
Well, I decided to join a gym you know impress the ladies for college he said as put on his shirt. Ladies for college Ricky repeated, should Adrian be jealous he joked. No, Ben said hurriedly forgetting that in this world he and Adrian were still together. But, I do want to make sure she gets jealous, and appreciates the fact she is not the only one who can get looks. Just make sure all they do is look Ricky said, with a grin
Ben did a quick look in the mirror and grabbed his jacket, Ricky then grabbed his keys to the apartment and locked up as he and Ben left. As they headed out Ben turned, asked Ricky if he knew where they were going. Yeah Amy said that she wanted us to be at Geoff's by eight tonight. Both got into Ben's car and made the drive within under ten minutes allowing them to arrive just ahead of Amy and Adrian.
Adrian was shocked at Ben as she came into the restaurant, he was wearing a black leather jacket with red button down shirt and a white turtle neck, with black jeans, and black boots. Amy was just as impressed with Ricky who was wearing a grey blazer with a red collared shirt similar to Ben, with brown khakis, and black suede shoes. They were both impressed with how good their men looked this evening.
As they sat down Ben, and Ricky were just as impressed with them. Adrian was wearing a green, sweater which hugged her form perfectly, and white pants and black fur covered boots. Amy was wearing a black sweater with a white vest, and tights, following with a red skirt, and red sandals. All were dressed for the Christmas Eve Dinner together. Where are the kids Ben, and Ricky asked having not seen them. Oh we left them by our parents homes, for tonight and we will pick them up later, Adrian said as Ben helped her to her seat.
As they all sat down Ben ordered them all a casual salad followed by a steak , and a baked potato for himself. Adrian ordered a baked chicken dark side up with baby carrots, and a small salad. Ricky ordered a Steak rare with an order of creamy potatoes. Amy was more elegant and ordered a seasoned Lemon fish with asparagus, and a Caesar salad.
All ate, talked, and laughed that night which truly allowed Adrian to follow Antonio's advice. She was truly happy that she, Ben, Amy, and Ricky could sit down like this and have such a wonderful time together without any drama. She was so happy that she could sit across from Ricky and watch he and Amy flirt without being at all jealous. She was even more thrilled to be playing footsy with Ben under the table as they all talked.
When the waiter came back with an order for dessert each decided to get the house special which was a three layer holiday Christmas cake slice with a peppermint candy cane. They all enjoyed the delicious treat so much, and most of all were happy to enjoy the holiday season with their friends. When the check came Ben reached for the bill, but before he could Ricky took it from him. He looked at Ricky cautiously and asked what was the occasion. Well, Ricky said this is my treat since you cooked breakfast this after noon, and this is my farewell dinner with you, he said.
What farewell dinner Ben asked shocked at his statement. Yeah, I'm still gonna be in town, but I won't be working with you at the shop anymore he said. Leo called while you were in the shower and let me know that my transfer to an office internship came through so starting next year I will be an assistant to the company vice president he said proudly.
That's great Ben, said looking at Ricky with an overjoyed expression. Honey I am so proud of you Amy said as she reached around his neck and kissed him. Well that is terrific Adrian said as she hugged Ricky and kissed him on the cheek. She was shocked that she didn't feel anything from that kiss either only proud of his accomplishment. Well that's good news all around Adrian said as she sat down. What do you mean Ricky said bewildered by that. Well, Amy and I got news for me today as well, she said taking Ben's hand. Well my dad is the D.A. and he helped me apply for a job in the legal affairs department at the courthouse. This means I will be a working, wife, and mother Adrian said as she looked at Ben. Really, Adrian that's terrific he said. But what about school and Mercy, he asked.
Well the department has its' own daycare center so I can drop Mercy off and go to work, at the same time. Plus the job is only part time so I can work there after school, and my work hours will go toward my school credit for a lot of my courses she said leaning over and kissing Ben. That is great Adrian,. Ricky said hugging her. Strangely he was surprised that Amy didn't get jealous of him hugging her. He guessed that all the drama between she and Adrian was completely in the past and now both could move on.
Ben, then lifted his glass of apple cider and made a toast to celebrate the occasion. To good friends, family, and most of all to the future. May this Christmas be the beginning of a tradition between the four of us, and may the new year bring with it all new beginnings. They all lifted their glasses and cheered at his toast. Ben, and Adrian then got up as Ricky pad the check and both said there farewell to Amy and Ricky as they all got ready to leave.
It was now 10:30 and Adrian still had one more surprise for Ben as she took his keys, and drove them both to the town ice rink which was still open. As they got out Ben looked puzzled at her intentions. She then opened his trunk and pulled out two sets of ice skates one for him, and one for her. What are these he asked, as she handed him a pair of skates. Well, I have always wanted to skate with you in the moonlight she said taking his hand and heading into the arena.
Ben, and Adrian got inside and saw there were very few people left in the arena, and on the roof of the arena was a lighting design of the night sky with a light fixture of Santa Cause flying across a full moon. Both took off their shoes and put on their skates and Adrian pulled Ben onto the ice with her. She thought that she would have to teach Ben to skate with her, but she was surprised when her husband actually, began to skate around the arena and did a double spin with an axe handle landing.
How did you do that she asked skating up to him as he looked at her with a broad smile. Well when I was younger and just started to notice girls I joined an ice skating class for beginners. I did it since I was kind of awkward as a kid and not many guys wanted to ice skate, so that just left me alone with twelve beautiful girls in small skirts, and razors on their feet. It was risky but it was worth it.
What, Adrian asked dumbfounded about this hidden information Ben had kept in secret. How come you never told anyone she asked. Well, it's kind of embarrassing since not many guys like to skate he said. But, Grace does know about it since she was in the same class, but I swore her to secrecy. I was actually pretty good and was even asked to join a team to take it up professionally. Really how come you didn't she asked. I thought about it but when I was practicing one day a group of hockey players made me give it up with a lot of name calling and crying.
Ben Boykewich how could you let anyone intimidate you, Adrian asked taking Ben's hand and skating around with him. Well I didn't really want to take it up professionally, I just did it to be with the girls. Besides I didn't want to put my dad through the long hours, and the psychotic mothers, I just didn't have it in me. Well, Adrian said moving closer to him, anytime you want to skate with me Mr. Boykewich just ask. I will take you up on that offer Mrs. Boykewich, Ben said as he took Adrian closer and kissed her.
Adrian and Ben then skated around the rink for a long time many of the couples who were still there marveled at how the two skated so symmetrical to one another. The light operator was so impressed with them he actually turned the spot light on Adrian and Ben as they skated. He then began to play the song A whole "New World " as they moved, together on the ice.
I can show you the world
Shining, shimmering, splendid Tell me princess,
now when didYou last let your heart decide?
I can open your eyes
Take you wonder by wonder
Over, sideways and under
On a magic carpet ride
A whole new world
A new fantastic point of view
Crystal clear That now I'm in a whole new world with youUnbelievable sightsIndescribable feeling
Soaring, tumbling, freewheelingThrough an endless diamond skyA whole new world
(Don't you dare close your eyes) A hundred thousand things to see (Hold your breath it gets better)
I'm like a shooting starI've come so farI can't go back to where I used to beA whole new world
With new horizons to pursueI'll chase them anywhere
There's time to spareLet me share this whole new world with you
A whole new world(Every turn a surprise)With new horizons to pursue(Every moment red-letter)
I'll chase them anywhere There's time to spare Anywhere, there's time to spare
Let me share this whole new world with youA whole new worldThat's where we'll be
A thrilling chaseA wondrous placeFor you and me
Both skated together feeling at one with each other as they moved on the ice and into the rest of the night. Ben then turned Adrian to face him and kissed her passionately. Adrian had never felt so close to anyone at that moment than how she felt with Ben holding her. She remembered back to when he proposed she didn't know she could feel like that with anyone again. She remembered when she was with Antonio that she also had felt similar but this was different. This wasn't a young girl experiencing first love, This also was not the love of a naïve teenager obsessed with the bad boy as she had with Ricky. This was falling in love as she always wondered. The night Ben proposed was them making the best of a bad situation. But, now she knew completely, She was truly, madly, and deeply in love with Ben Boykewich.
Adrian, then broke from the kiss, and began to cry. What's wrong Ben asked as he wiped the tears from her face. Nothing she said as she turned I just thought that it was late and we should be getting back to my parents, for Mercy. I want us to spend Christmas together she said as she went to get her things and get out of her skates.
Ben, didn't know it but he and Adrian felt the same way. He also hated that this moment this world, this life, that they had together was not real. And like Adrian he knew that tomorrow night like the song it would end.
They drove quietly back to Adrian's parents house, mainly because neither knew just what to say about what had just happened. Also neither knew how to express what they were feeling since neither Adrian nor Ben knew that they were the Real BEN & ADRIAN. But this didn't matter to Ben, as he took Adrian's hand and kissed it as the pulled into her parents' drive way.
As they got out the clock struck 12 midnight and made the town, clock ring. The sounding of the bell seemed ominous to both Adrian and Ben who looked at one another with a frightened expression, and both held onto the others hand a little tighter than they had before afraid to let go. Reuben, and Cindy then came outside holding a sleeping Mercy and wondered about what was going on.
Ben, was shocked as Cindy handed him Mercy and saw that Cindy was pregnant. How did that happen Ben asked pointing to Cindy's stomach. Ben, it happened the same way you got my daughters to look, Cindy said jokingly. You know that Cindy's six moths pregnant, Ben said Reuben as he came up to him. You, Adrian and Mercy are the reason he said lightly. What? Ben asked.
Well remember Cindy said. After Mercy was born I decided that I had already missed so much of Adrian's life and didn't want to miss my grand daughter's as well so I decided to take a job to work closer to home. That's when I decided to run for District Attorney Reuben said. Yeah, and since both of us were spending so much time together we felt the house was empty with Adrian gone, and decided we would try for another child.
Yeah, I don't know where my mind is today Ben said as he buckled Mercy into her car seat. That's all right Cindy said as she went inside Adrian seemed just as shocked as you were she said. Ben, was puzzled at her last remark but got into the car, and he, Adrian, and Mercy Drove home with the radio on listening to "Silent Night" and "I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas". They then took Mercy from her car seat and carried her into the condo and put her to bed.
Adrian then came into the bedroom in a black satin nightgown with robe, and Ben's Christmas present in tow. Ben turned around to see her and was in shock and awe of her beauty. Here Adrian said as she handed him her present I didn't want to wait any longer to give this to you she said, as she got into bed. Ben opened the small box slowly and saw a small golden pocket watch engraved with an eagle, with a chain on it. Adrian this is perfect he said I always wanted one of theses he said, with his eyes shining. But, this must be too expensive he said. No it was only fifty dollars, but the picture and inscription were free she said. Look at it. Ben opened the watch to see a picture of Mercy and Adrian inside of the watch across from the face he then turned the watch over and the inscription read
"TO MY HUSBAND BENNY THIS IS TO HELP YOU ENJOY ALL THE TIME WE HAVE TOGETHER LOVE YOUR WIFE AND DAUGHTER ADRIAN & MERCY"
Ben could not help but cry at this gift given to him by this beautiful woman. He felt a little ashamed of his gift as he handed it to Adrian a small box which she opened slowly. Inside Adrian found a small white gold locket, with the image of an angel engraved on the front she was astonished at it's beauty and was overjoyed when she looked in to see a picture of Ben on one side and Mercy on the other. There's an inscription on it as well, Ben said . Adrian turned it over and saw what the inscription read, and started to cry.
MY ANGEL MAY THIS REMIND YOU OF HOW IMPORTANT YOU ARE TO US. LOVE BEN & MERCY
Well Mr. Rambizi strikes again Adrian laughed as she put the necklace on. What do you mean Ben asked, nothing she said. But, since it's officially Christmas, she said looking at Ben's watch can I have one more present before the morning she asked. Okay Ben said as they moved closer to one another what gift do you want, he asked. I want to make love to my husband on Christmas she said kissing him on his neck. I think that can be arranged he said taking Adrian in his arms and lying her down on the bed. I love you Adrian Lee Boykewich Ben said as he moved over her. I love you Benjamin Boykewich Adrian said as they kissed passionately and made love together for the rest of the night till falling asleep in each other's arms.
WELL THAT'S CHRISTMAS EVE DOWN SORRY IT TOOK ME SO LONG I AM BUSY FOR THE HOLIDAYS. BUT THE LAST TWO CHAPTERS WILL BE UP TONIGHT OR CHRISTMAS NIGHT SO ENJOY AND I HOPE YOU LIKE IT SO COMMENT EVEN "NILERAMY4EVA". AS IT SAY'S ON THE DESCRIPTION THIS IS A STORY FOR BEN AND ADRIAN NOT THE FANS.