Letting Go Of The Past

Jac was watching Joseph sleep beside her, gently she brushed her fingers over his shoulder. She should have been happy, she was finally with the love of her life. Joseph had told her what his mother had said to him was of no consequence, he insisted they were just words. Jac of all people knew how much damage 'just words' could do. The truth was part of her was terrified of loving him, finally letting her guard down had been so difficult and had taken so long. Joseph had seen past all the chaos and the extra baggage that came with loving someone like her. She didn't want to come between him and his family again, she had ruined the relationship between Joseph and his father, even though Lord Byrne was just as much to blame for what happened as she had been. Anne-Marie had said Joseph was only looking after her because he felt it was his 'duty'. That hurt more than any other thing she had said. The last thing Jac ever wanted was to feel like a burden to someone she loved so much. She could cope with anything but that. Joseph stirred awake.

He opened his eyes. He kisses her, making her feel warm inside. Joseph looks at her, she was beautiful and those eyes... Joseph would never let her go again.

JAC: Joseph you're sure about this aren't you?

Joseph looked at her earnestly.

JOSEPH: You already know the answer to that question Jac.

JAC: I don't want you to feel you've been forced into looking after me. That's the last thing I'd want.

Joseph looks confused and slightly hurt.

JOSEPH: What on earth are you talking about? I'm not doing this through pity Jac.

JAC: It's just after what your mother said I-

JOSEPH: Forget what she said.

JAC: I can't.

JOSEPH: Look at me. I meant everythig I said. I've spent years trying to placate her. All she cares about is how this is going to make her look with her social set.

Joseph starts to get dressed.

JAC: I'm scared Joseph. You know I hate saying that. It makes me sound weak and feeble.

Joseph can't help but smile, as Jac battles to get her trousers on from a sitting position.

JOSEPH: Last time I checked it was not a crime to admit to being scared. Some might say it takes courage. Me being one of them.

Jac looks at Joseph with that cynical look he'd seen so many times before.

JAC: (Sharply) That is typical of you. Forever the optimist. Look I'm sorry, I'm just not used to all this self doubt in my mind. I am really trying hard not be negative.

JOSEPH: I know you are. But whatever you are going through, I'll be right behind you. We are in this together.

Jac can see Joseph is being genuine. She looks at him.

JAC: Can I ask you something?

JOSEPH: Fire away.

JAC: Why did you keep coming back to me?

Joseph pauses before answering the question.

JOSEPH: It was always different with you. It was never the easy safe option. I can be myself with you. I don't have to pretend or be something that I'm not. You are the most challenging woman I have been with. It took me a long time to realise I wouldn't have it any other way. Now come on lets go and have some breakfast.

They sit down to breakfast. Jac can tell that Joseph has something on his mind, he looks slightly nervous as he munches on toast. When he's finished he gets up. He looks slightly worried, before getting down on one knee. Jac chokes on her hot cup of coffee.

JOSEPH: Jac I love you, we have been through so much to get here. Will you make me the happiest man alive? Pauses.

Jac for once in her life is lost for words. Joseph pulls out the box from his pocket and reveals a very beautiful diamond ring. Jac opens her mouth but can't form any words.

JOSEPH: I know this is a massive shock, but to be honest I've wanted to do this for a while. Now everything has been swept clean, a fresh start. Will you marry me Jac?

JAC: I can't believe this, my God. Are you serious?

JOSEPH: (Grins) Absolutley. I mean it Jac, I want to spend the rest of my life with you. So do I get an answer?

Jac takes a few seconds to regain some composure, through tears it finally comes.

JAC: Yes, of course I will. Nothing would make me happier. I love you too.

Joseph with a very broad grin, slips the ring on Jac's trembling finger. Before they hold on to each other very tightly.

JOSEPH: Against all the odds we've made it.

JAC: We have I still don't believe it, but we've come full circle.

Thank you to everyone who's reviewed and read this story, I really do appreciate all the feedback. I am thinking of doing one last wedding chapter. Let me know what you think.