{Author's Note: No, it's STILL not the last chapter :) No Tricks, only a Treat in the form of an exceptionally long chapter.}

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

... ... ... ... ...

{It's the day after Jessica and Seth hosted a Seafood Feast dinner for their close family who are in town. They're now preparing for a big day - their wedding reception, in the form of a barbecue. Let's just see who shows up…}

... ... ... ... ...

After they attended the late church service the next morning Jessica, Seth, Grady, Donna, and Frank returned to the house to have breakfast.

Standing with a large frying pan in hand, Seth posed a question to the family gathered around the kitchen table. "How would you all like your scrambled eggs?!"

"Scrambled!" was the unanimous jovial answer before everyone turned back to their coffee or orange juice.

When breakfast was over it was decided that Seth and Jessica would take the station wagon to the reception while Grady, Donna, and Frank would take their car. "In case a certain someone needs to come back to the house for a nap," Grady teased.

"I'm sorry, dear," questioned Donna with a sparkle in her eye, "but do you mean Frank? Or me?"

Chuckling, Grady admitted, "Actually, I was thinking it might be me! I'm not used to all of this sunshine and fresh ocean air anymore!"

"You know, a nap might not be a bad idea Seth," interjected Jessica. "We're going to be on our feet for quite a while today."

"Say no more, my dear. Let's leave the clean up to the young people and retire for forty winks," he agreed as he took her hand and led her upstairs.

Doffing their outerwear, the couple snuggled comfortably under the sheet. "Of course, there are other things we also could do while we're here," suggested Seth hopefully.

"Mmmm, yes. But there are way too many people in the house for that much, er, fun," resignedly replied Jessica. "Besides," she yawned as she cuddled closer, "a nap would be just wonderful right now."

Seth looked down and realized she was already asleep. Gently he leaned his head against hers and nodded off as well.

... ... ... ... ...

Donna looked anxiously at the clock and then at Grady. "Should we wake them? It's getting late."

"I'll go!" volunteered Frank before his father could answer.

Just then the tread of feet could be heard coming down the stairs. "Now, where would you be going, sweetheart?" Jessica asked of the youngster.

"To come and get you! Gosh, you look pretty, Grandma!"

"Oh! Thank you," Jessica said, delighted with her great nephew's use of her new title even more than the compliment.

"You do look lovely, Aunt Jess," agreed Grady as he took in her knee length, flared, yellow sundress with a very subtle black mottling, complete with yellow taffeta trim at the square neckline and around the short sleeves. A simple gold heart shaped locket adorned her neck while strappy, tan, low wedge sandals with black piping and a gold buckle bedecked her feet. She carried a small woven purse and a straw sun hat in her hand.

"And don't you look natty in your summer finery, Uncle Seth," lauded Donna as she apprised his summer weight cotton/linen blend, pale periwinkle blue and white seersucker sport coat over a white shirt and medium blue slacks; all tidied up by a dark blue bow tie with white dots. An ivory boater hat with a blue band was tucked under his arm.

"You are obviously a woman of great taste," returned Seth. Turning to Jessica he offered his arm. "Shall we be off to our reception, dearest?"

Jessica rolled her eyes and chuckled as she linked her arm through his. "Yes, I think we'd better. It would be rude to be late to our own party."

A short drive took them to the common green behind the church where they had exchanged vows just two months earlier. A white arbor, festooned with greenery and flowers, marked the entrance way.

"Ah, Eve's done a splendid job!" Jessica remarked as they walked under the framework and into the grassy expanse beyond and observed a large yellow and white striped tented area with tables and chairs underneath. The backdrop was a lovely view of the ocean.

A little ways away was the food and beverage preparation and serving area. At the south end, just on the edge of the spacious parking lot, a small stage had been erected and the band was on it, tuning up their instruments. A temporary wooden dance floor had been laid over the asphalt to entice would be twirlers.

Many more comfortable chairs and tables were scattered under the leafy trees that cast their welcome shade about on the very sunny day. Fortunately, a constant gentle breeze off of the water kept everyone cool and relatively bug free. A small army of servers, cleaners, security, and the like moved purposefully in their white aprons - emblazoned with "STAFF" on them.

The little family group moved towards the tented area where Eve was giving last minute directions to everyone who came near. "Jessica! Seth! So wonderful to see you!" she greeted them each with a hug. "And Grady and Donna! It's been ages; and don't tell me this is Frank? Why you're almost all grown up!"

After pleasantries were exchanged Eve led them to the head table. "Now this immediate area around you is for family and close friends, of course. And, oh, this young man," she said as she snatched an aproned passerby over to her, "is Mark. He is the Chief of Staff and will do anything you wish."

As Eve took a breath Mark said, "Yes, we are here to make your day as pleasant as possible. If you need anything at all, please tell me or any one of the staff. Our job is to make this day easy for you to enjoy." As he was speaking a young woman came up with a tray of flutes filled with chilled champagne. Mark took the tray and offered it to Jessica and Seth first and then to the others. "So, take a deep breath and leave all of your cares to us." He then gave them a quick study of where everything was and left them to enjoy their drinks.

"Eve!" gushed Jessica. "Thank you! You did a wonderful job!"

"Here! here!" joined in Seth as he raised his glass to her.

"It was nothing," demurred Eve. "I'm just glad to see you two finally together and I had great fun spending your money! Besides, with all these new people visiting our quaint little town I'm sure someone will want to move here and they'll need a realtor, now won't they? Oooh, there are a couple of hot prospects now - and handsome ones, too. That never hurts! Well, if you'll excuse me, duty calls…" and with that she traipsed off.

Just then Jessica saw her brothers and sisters and various nieces and nephews among the throng entering the area and waved to them. Seth noticed his clan and waved his hat to get their attention.

In a very short time the whole area was filled with many happy guests. As the mouth watering aroma of roasting pork and other delectables wafted through the air Reverend Robbins stood on the small stage and the crowd hushed as he gave a benediction over the people and said a blessing over the food.

With hundreds of expected guests it had been earlier determined that a receiving line was not feasible. "We'll just have to say hello to as many of our friends and family as we can manage during the afternoon," Jessica had wisely concluded, and Seth agreed. To that end, the newlyweds spent the better part of the next hour greeting as many of their guests as possible before finally managing to sit down and have a bite to eat themselves.

After another toast, this one offered by her sister, Jessica nudged Seth. "Let's take a walk - I need to work off some of this food, and if I drink any more champagne I'm going to start bubbling myself! Besides, there are still quite a few people we haven't greeted yet."

"Good idea!" Seth readily concurred and they took leave of their family to wander about the greensward and visit with the many neighbors and friends who had been invited. Finally, Seth suggested, "I'm getting parched, Jess. How about we stop for a lemonade?" as he steered her around a clump of people and toward one of the several beverage stations.

As they approached the makeshift bar Jessica recognized the dark haired, tall man who had just ordered a "Bourbon, on the rocks." Elbowing Seth gently to get his attention, she came up behind the fellow and said loudly in a bad Brooklyn accent, "Aww geeze, it looks like they'll let anyone in this joint!"

Harry McGraw turned around with his mouth open and stared for a second before he laughed, "Jessica! It's so good to see you!" as he enveloped her in a hug. "And Seth, you're looking great. Marriage must agree with you!" as he double-handedly took Seth's palm and shook it vigorously.

"It does, at that!" wholeheartedly agreed the doctor. "And I see your bumps and bruises have healed up without a blemish. Good."

"Yes, you're just as handsome as ever," kidded Jessica as a thought sparked in her head. While the trio enjoyed their drinks and chatted amiably she kept an eye out for a certain someone - who conveniently came walking toward them with an empty wine glass.

"Oh, Eve!" Jessica waved her to them. "I'd like you to meet a friend from Boston; Eve Simpson, this is Harry McGraw. He's a private detective. Eve here is responsible for organizing this wonderful affair," she explained to her old friend.

"You did this whole shin-dig?" said Harry, duly impressed. "Wow, a woman who knows how to get things done and orders good bourbon, not that cheap stuff that I'm used to, and looks fabulous while doing it. If you don't mind me saying… Can I get you a refill?"

"Why, I don't mind at all," replied Eve with a coy smile. "And I'd love a refill."

Seth looked quizzically from one to the other, trying to figure out the interpersonal dynamics that were occurring while Jessica, trying hard to stifle a huge smile, made their excuse to depart. "Well, we've got to greet some other friends, we'll see you two later."

As they walked away Seth looked at his wife with amazement. "Woman, am I wrong or did you just play matchmaker and set up Eve and Harry?"

"Who, me?" she replied as innocently as possible.

Seth's laughter resounded quite a ways across the field.

As they neared the impromptu stage the band finish their set and announced that they would return after the magic show, which was about to begin.

A horde of children settled themselves in front of the stage, artfully arranged by a giggle of clowns who continually pulled small, gold wrapped chocolate coins from behind ears, and fashioned long balloons into hats, wrist bands, corsages, and elongated wiener dogs to amuse the youngsters. Frank and his new-found cousins were front and center and squeals of delight could be heard from the whole gang.

After the clowns had settled the kids into place the magician appeared on stage and proceeded with many effects; including producing rabbits and doves out of his hat, several card tricks, and levitating one assistant while sawing another in half. "The ultimate quick diet!" he loudly proclaimed to much laughter and a few groans from the audience.

Jessica and Seth were standing at the edge of the crowd enjoying the antics when Seth heard a laugh that seemed very familiar. Looking over to the right side of the mass of people now gathered around the stage he spied a roly-poly fellow with salt and pepper hair standing at the back of the group. "Jess, is that who I think it is?" he asked as he directed her sight towards the man.

"Oh, yes, it is! Let's go over and say hi."

They skirted the edge of the crowd and came alongside their old friend. "Amos, you old son of a gun!" boomed Seth. "It's good to see you!"

"Why, Doc! Miz Fletchah! H'llo!" former sheriff Amos Tupper responded with lively surprise as he hugged them both. "It shore is good t'see you both. I tried hahd to find you earlier but like to get lost in this crowd so I figured I'd wait 'till you found me!"

"And we're glad we did," delightedly said Jessica. "How's retirement in Kentucky been treating you? How is your sister Winnie?"

"Retirement's fine, just fine. It's nice and quite like. I get to do a lot of fishin'. A'course it's not for big fish like there are up heah, but it's fun anyhow. Winnie stahted taking piano lessons last spring and wound up marryin' the local music teachah."

"Are you on your own then, Amos?" asked Seth.

Tugging his earlobe slightly, the former lawman grinned sheepishly. "Not exactly. See, I stahted keepin' steady company with a real nice lady. She's a tall drink of watah with real pretty red hair. Her name's Marion."

"Why, that's wonderful, Amos. We're very happy for you," smiled Jessica.

"Thank you, Miz Fletchah. You know I coulda been knocked ovah with a feathah when I got the invite to this reception. So Doc," he looked over to Seth with a big, cheesy grin, "you finally tore yourself loose from killin' your patients to court Miz Fletchah proper like!"

Oh, no! grimly thought Seth. Here comes the "It's about time," bit again.

"And I'm glad she accepted you. The two of you make a right good looking couple. I'm very happy to see you together and lookin' so blissful."

Seth drew in a sharp breath and was speechless, as was Jessica, for a moment. Then she spoke up, "Dear Amos, thank you! Your good wishes mean the world to us…"

"And we're so very glad you came," added Seth, finding his voice. "It's good to see you again, old friend!" he said with a grateful smile.

They chatted on for a while until Adele found them. Jessica did the introductions and mentioned that Adele's husband, Mort, was the new sheriff in town.

"I'll have to send my husband around your way when he comes off shift, Mr. Tupper. I'm sure he'd like to meet you, but right now I'm working on Eve's orders to steal these two away so they have the first dance when the band starts up again after the show."

After brief farewells she led them off toward the stage where the illusionist was finishing up the performance by shackling his two, frequently tormented, assistants to a wall. Once they were secured he pulled a concealing curtain around them and started walking around the back. But the figures that then came around from the other side were the two assistants!

The glittery clad women pulled the curtain back with a grand flourish to reveal the chagrined magician, now bound in the center of the wall were they had been only seconds before. The crowd roared its approval at the trick. Meanwhile, the assistants each picked up a water bucket from the side and, after baptizing a few of the closer members of the audience, threw the contents onto the hapless wizard.

Magically, he was pelted with confetti, not water! The crowd cheered and clapped in delight before the trio took their bows and the staff helped clear the stage.

On the other side of the crowd Loretta, Phyllis, and Ideal were applauding the spectacle when Loretta looked to her friends and acerbically noted, "Oh sure, he can make people appear and disappear - but what about wrinkles? Why doesn't he do something really useful and make them disappear?!" Everyone around her who heard the quip just cracked up.

The band took the stage back and asked that the newlyweds have the first dance of the set. Jessica and Seth left her bag and their hats on a nearby table and walked onto the dance floor while the quintet struck up Could I Have This Dance (for the rest of my life). Seth offered her his hand, which she took as she stepped in close, and they began to dance.

"Shall we kiss and then dance check to cheek while everyone's watching and scandalize the town?" mischievously suggested Jessica into Seth's ear.

"Now there's a temptation I just can't resist," cheerfully whispered Seth as they then pressed their lips together for a long, sweet moment before nestling together while their slow sway continued.

A soft chorus of contented sighs was heard from the crowd of appreciative onlookers.

The next song was a lively tune and many other couples took to the dance floor. Amos Tupper was considering going over for an iced tea when Adele and a uniformed Mort Metzger, fresh from duty, walked up to him.

"Mr. Tupper, this is my husband, Mort. Dear, this is Amos Tupper, your predecessor." After exchanging pleasantries Adele noticed Loretta on the other side of the crowd. Turning to the men she said, "Please excuse me, but I've got to catch Loretta before she leaves," and gave her husband's arm a squeeze before she dashed off, leaving the two alone.

There was an awkward silent moment as the current and former sheriffs watched Jessica and Seth dance. "They look good together, don't they?" observed the uniformed lawman, finally breaking the quiet.

"They do at that," agreed the previous constable. "They're downright… cute. It took 'em long enough! Why I thought they'd get together years ago."

"So, you've known them both a long time, then?" asked Mort.

"Oh, yeah… yes. Ages, in fact. Miz Fletchah was always around to help out when I needed to, uhm, consult with someone on a murdah case. Does she still, er, consult with you on them?"

"Yeah, she's really helpful about that. In fact, she always seems to be around for the investigation. Whether you want help or not…"

"Ah, the usual."

Both men chuckled quietly.

"Yup! But, in all fairness, Mrs. F is usually right. Hell, she's always right."

"A-yuh, she always was back then, too. Y'know, I wondah if she'll continue to happin' by murdah as much now that she and the doc are hitched," pondered Amos.

"He is a physician, maybe he'll cure her of whatever besets her."

"Or they'll just attract double trouble!"

"Let's not even go there," groaned Mort.

After reflecting for a moment the former lawman looked up at Mort. "In fact, I can't say that I recall there ever bein' a murduh in town when she wasn't around to help out."

Just then on the dance floor Seth felt a shiver run through his wife. "Are you all right, dear?" he asked as he drew back and looked at her.

"I'm fine - it's just… I sort of felt a strange zephyr in the ether," she stammered back. "Oh, I'm not making any sense at all! Really, I'm just fine," she declared as they danced on, now watched by both Amos and Mort with thoughtful interest.

"Huh! Now that you mention it, neither can I," mused Mort. "Well, there was that one time, but it was in her house." Then he looked over at the older man. "You know, Mr. Tupper, there's been something I've wanted to ask you for years. Has Cabot Cove always been the murder capital of Maine? I mean, when I first got here I thought I'd have it easy - get in a lot of golf and some fishing. Instead, I've seen more bodies here than in some of the worst parts of New York. Is that why you left?"

With a knowing smile the former constable nodded his head slightly and looked Mort straight in the eye. "Call me Amos. And that answer will cost you a drink, sheriff."

A smile slowly crossed his face as the peace officer deliberately took off his badge and tucked it into his pocket before saying, "The beer's on me - and it's Mort. So, you like to fish?" he asked as he led Amos to the beverage area. "I've got tomorrow off and I was thinking of going out - maybe you'd like to come along? It seems we've got a few things to talk about…"

... ... ... ... ...

Meanwhile, Jessica was remembering their first dance together as husband and wife as she looked lovingly at Seth. "I felt that we were dancing on a cloud, just like now."

"A-yuh, and I had an angel in my arms, as I do now; then all those fellows stole her away from me," he complained with a smile. "I'm not letting you go this time!"

"Seth!" Jessica giggled. "You'll have to let others cut in after this dance."

"No, I don't," he argued as he cuddled her closer. "I want you all to myself tonight."

"Oh, you'll have me. All of me," she meaningfully whispered to him.

Seth nearly stumbled.

Catching himself he sighed and growled back low into her ear, "You do that to me every time!"

"Who, me?" Jessica innocently grinned for the second time that day.

Looking into blue eyes sparkling with mischief, Seth couldn't help but murmur with hopeful yearning as the song was ending. "Jessica, it's been… too long… Do you think anyone would miss us if we just went home now?"

"Aren't you enjoying yourself?" Jessica inquired with a raised eyebrow.

Seth replied for her ears only, "I'd enjoy myself a lot more if I was alone with you…"

Jessica smiled sweetly, "Seth, dear, it's only been two days; and as wonderful as us leaving would be, it would also be rather rude. Besides, I believe my publisher is about to cut in on you. Why, hello, Ted," she greeted as a dapper suited man walked up just as the song ended.

"Jessica! you look wonderful," he praised as he kissed her cheek. "And this must be the man who snatched you off of the market."

"Yes," Jessica said as she twinkled a smile at Seth. "This is my husband, doctor Seth Hazlitt. Seth, this is Ted Hartley."

"A pleasure to meet you, Dr. Hazlitt."

"Call me Seth," he replied as he returned the handshake.

"And it's Ted. I must ask your pardon as I steal your wife away for a bit; I've got to fly right back to New York to try and beat the weather. May I?" he asked with a grin.

"Of course," Seth agreed affably after Jessica gave him a small nod. "Thank you again for letting us use the private jet for our wedding. We appreciated it greatly!"

"I'm glad," Ted replied as the music began again. "I like to keep my favorite author very happy," he said as he offered Jessica his hand and they started dancing.

Seth watched them for a moment. Oh, Ted wants something, all right, he contemplated just before feeling a light grasp on his arm. Turning around he found Helene smiling up at him. "How about giving your little sister a spin?"

"With pleasure!" he answered and they waltzed away to the music.

"How was South Carolina, Jessica? I hope the press didn't give you any grief," inquired the publisher.

"Oh, no. We didn't have any trouble at all. Right after the wedding, while we were still in Cabot Cove, Seth and I gave an interview to our local journalist and it took most of the steam out of things. We had a wonderful trip down South."

"I was happily surprised that you got your manuscript in on time after all. I have to tell you - it's a fabulous ending! It's bound to be a mega hit. Is it too early to talk you into some book signings?" he asked wishfully.

"Now Ted," Jessica cautioned, "I'm not adverse to doing a few signings. But! I'll not be spending all those weeks on the road anymore."

"I'm sure we can work something out. By the way, don't forget that if you want to include a dedication I'll need it soon so we can get it out with the first print for the holidays. Perhaps you have something, or someone, special in mind. Hmmm?" he teased as he noticed her eyes following Seth.

"Ha, ha, ha!" Jessica laughed softly. "Ah, you know me well, Ted. Yes, I'll have a special dedication to you by the beginning of next week."

... ... ... ... ...

Everyone wanted to dance with the couple and they were kept on the floor for the next hour, twirling away to their favorite tunes, until Jessica's brother Marshall took his sister's hand, while his wife captured Seth's, and they danced them both off to the side where two tall iced teas awaited them.

"You were both starting to look a little peaked," explained Marshall. "I thought you'd like an excuse to rest for a while."

"Ooh, yes - thank you!" This is just what my toes needed," gratefully said Jessica as she sat down to her drink.

Seth settled himself next to her and took a long draught of the chilled beverage. "Mmm, this hits the spot. Thank you both for rescuing us!"

"Well, dear, shall we take their place?" Marshall suggested, much to the delight of his wife as they took to the dance floor for a polka.

Feeling revived after finishing her drink Jessica suggested, "Seth, let's walk about some more - there are still people we haven't said hello to yet."

"Good idea. I wouldn't mind stopping for a taste of dessert, too. Freezers full of popsicles, fudge bars, ice cream sandwiches and the like! The perfect summer dessert. I'm beginning to think that Eve is a genius!"

Looping her arm through his and leading away from the dance floor, Jessica chuckled, "I'll be sure to tell her you said so!"

As they walked along the green grass in the sunlight they were cooled by the gentle breeze from the ocean, with Jessica kissing cheeks, Seth heartily shaking hands, and them both happily greeting all they met.

That is, until a somewhat whiney, "Oh, Jessica! Seth!" from the side drew their attention and they stopped and turned to find Mayor Sam Booth hurrying in their direction.

"Well, there goes a perfect afternoon," muttered Seth under his breath.

"Now Seth," whispered Jessica, "be nice!"

"I'd rather be sitting on an irate porcupine than talking to our esteemed mayor!"

Jessica bit her lower lip to keep from laughing out loud at that image, while the head politician of Cabot Cove puffed over to them.

"There you both are!" he exclaimed.

"It's our reception. Where else where we be?" blithely retorted Seth.

Sam's mouth opened, but nothing came out of it for a moment since he didn't understand the doctor's response. "Uh, well. That's nice. After all, as I've always said, 'Everybody's got to be somewhere,' now don't they?"

It was Jessica's and Seth's turns to be non-plussed as they stared at the mayor's broad, smiling face.

"Anyhoo, I just wanted to extend my very best wishes. You know, if you had asked me, as mayor, I would have been honored to have performed your wedding ceremony. Even now, I'd be delighted to take the stage and say a few words of congratulations to the crowd if you'd like," he simpered.

"Oh, er, that's very, very kind of you, but we wouldn't want to impose upon you." Jessica thanked him as she turned to Seth with a pleading look for help.

Seth chimed in, "Besides, we heard a group of townspeople over there having a discussion about candidates for the upcoming mayoral race. Now, you might want to go and have a talk with them and we wouldn't want to keep you."

"Oh, certainly not! Dear me, which way did you say this group was?"

"Over that way," Seth pointed in the opposite direction from where they were heading.

"Well, I'd better get over there. And, oh, congratulations again," he said as he hurried off.

When the mayor was safely on his way, Jessica exhaled, "It looks like we dodged a bullet. That was a clever fib."

"What fib? Someone's always talking about how on earth a man who proclaims himself to be the 'do nothing mayor' keeps getting re-elected! Why, he even has his re-election posters printed up with that slogan."

They both chortled away at the thought as Seth led his wife off to the side where a white aproned staff member indulged them in their decisions to enjoy a Whoopie Pie and a frozen blueberry gelato, respectively, for dessert.

... ... ... ... ...

"Yum! That was scrumptious," exuberantly declared Jessica as she polished off her ice cream treat.

"Yes," agreed Seth as he finished his frozen confection and looked to his wife. "Heh, heh, just a minute Jess. You have blue lips now - you look like a Smurf!"

Coming closer with a napkin in his hand and a twinkle in his eye, he added, "Here, let me help you with that," just before he leaned in and delicately licked her blue lips before kissing her.

That's how Dennis Stanton and his raven-haired escort found them.

"I say, that must be a marvelous dessert, wouldn't you agree Nicole?" Dennis noted with a huge grin.

"We definitely must have some!" she agreed with a giggle as Jessica and Seth separated with a start and stared up at the intruders.

"Dennis!" Jessica laughed as she reached out to hug him. "You surprised us!"

"I am sorry about that - I just couldn't resist!" he claimed as he gave her cheek a peck. "How are you Seth?" he asked as he extended his hand.

"I'm very well, Dennis. It's good to see you. We're glad you could make it."

"I had to come - Nicole made me," the tall, mustachioed man replied with a warm smile at the woman whose hand he held. "I hope you remember this lovely lady. She was the bartender at McCrady's Tavern when I saw you there on your honeymoon."

"Of course! So nice to see you again," Seth politely said.

"It is true that I insisted we attend today," she confirmed. "I told Dennis that we had to come and thank you personally."

"Whatever for?" inquired Jessica looking quizzically back and forth between the two.

"Because, my dear Jessica. We took a cue from you and the good doctor here… and eloped!"

"Yes, while we were sailing to the Bahamas last month Dennis talked so much about how happy you two looked that we decided to be brave also and had the Captain marry us."

"How wonderful!" exclaimed Jessica as she and Seth congratulated the couple. They chatted energetically for a while before Nicole insisted, "Dennis, you promised that we would dance!"

"Of course, my sweet." They made their farewells to the other newlyweds and made their way toward the dance floor while Jessica and Seth watched them go.

"Huh! Can you beat that?" remarked Seth to his wife. "I never would have bet on it."

"Nor would I, not in a million years," Jessica agreed. "But they do look very happy together."

"If they're half as happy as we are they'll have a blessed life."

"What a lovely thing to say," Jessica smiled into his eyes before leaning in and planting a soft kiss on his lips. "Now, if you don't mind, let's walk up closer to the entrance."

... ... ... ... ...

"You know, it's too bad Evelyn, Rob, and Kendall got socked in by the weather. We'll probably get some of that storm too, later in the week." Noticing how she was scanning faces in the crowd as they continued along Seth asked, "Is there anyone in particular that we're looking for?"

Sighing heavily, Jessica admitted, "Yes, but I'm afraid the bad weather over the coast has held her up. I was dearly looking forward to seeing my cousin… Oh! Wait! There she is! Emma! Emma!" she excitedly called as she took off her hat and waved it toward the person who had just walked through the trellis.

A rather tall, red headed woman hurried toward them as Jessica opened her arms wide for a welcoming hug. As Emma and Jessica met and embraced Seth stared at them, dumbfounded and mouth wide open. Good Lord! They look like identical twins, but with different hair colors!

"Ooh, I'm so glad you made it, Emma!" Jessica rejoiced as she rocked her cousin with delight.

"Me too, love! I'm sorry I'm so late, but the weather over the Pond was positively dreadful! Well, let's have a look at you. My, you're positively glowing! And this handsome man here must be the reason why," she said as she and Jessica both turned to face a still shocked Seth.

Jessica giggled at the expression on her husband's face and nudged his arm a little. "Dear, this is my cousin Emma McGill from England. I'm sure I've mentioned to you before that we look a little alike. Emma, this is my husband, Seth. He usually is able to speak."

Seth blinked twice before shaking off his astonishment and taking Emma's hand in both of his before kissing her cheek. "Of course! Please excuse me; it's just not every day that a man gets to see two such beautiful women together."

Emma chuckled heartily as she shook Seth's hand. Glancing over to her cousin she quipped, "Ah, he's a smooth one, he is, Jessica! Don't fret now, Seth. You're not the first chap lately to have such a reaction to me."

The area under the canopy had emptied out with everyone off to see the second magic show. The trio seated themselves comfortably there to catch up. After talking awhile, and not seeing any staff around, Seth offered to get drinks and snacks and his offer was gratefully accepted.

"You know I've never put much faith in doctors, dear Jessica, but your fellow there has a kind heart and a good soul. A body can tell that right off," observed Emma. "And the way he looks at you - and you at him… O dear me, it's a wonderful thing to see such love thriving, and at our age!"

"I'm glad I came to realize it while we could still do something about it," confessed Jessica.

"Was it you then that was the stopper in the bottle all the years the two of you have been such great friends? Oh, don't blush now - we've become close mates these last many years as well as being look-a-like cousins. Why, as you know, marriage never fit into me plans at all, but lately I've been wondering if I've been wrong about that. You and Seth getting married have caused me to rethink meself."

"Emma, do tell," encouraged Jessica with a raised eyebrow, full of curiosity.

"Well, you know how things ended with Oliver. I had a hard time getting over that, but when me old chum, Geoffrey Constable got a hold of me I began to think of a new beginning, even with him being a Viscount and all. We had a lot in common and had always gotten on together." Emma paused and shook her head sadly, tears coming to her eyes and just as quickly blinked away.

Jessica put her hand over her cousin's. "It was so very terrible about him being poisoned; and you being blamed!"

"It was, and it liked to just break my heart. The dear man left me well off but it seemed as if I lost some of me vim and vinegar when he died. And then the strangest thing happened in London, just at the end of June."

"One of me old school chums, whose husband is high up in the diplomatic corps, called late on a Saturday afternoon and begged me to come with her to a costume ball at the French Embassy that night. It seems that her husband had badly twisted his ankle but wanted her to put in an appearance for him - politics and all."

"Well, I thought it might be good for a laugh and pulled out some of the old props from the Mayhew Theatre. I tell you, we were quite the sight, she as Cinderella in a fancy gown and beaded mask and me wearing a pink mask and flesh toned body stocking with a brunette wig blending into a brunette hair body shirt that came down past my knees, covering all my personal bits, of course; going as Lady Godiva."

Jessica started laughing at the mental image and Emma joined in the chuckles.

"My girl and I were having a fun time of it, what with all the glamorous costumes and all. We were at the bar getting a refresher when this fellow in a black mask, black slacks and black vest over a puffy white shirt, wearing a black wig with a silver stripe in it comes over. He puts a large white mug on the bar and I thought he was going to ask for a refill but he pulls a rubber straight razor out of the mug and says to me, 'Madam, with legs like those it's a sin to wear your hair so long! Allow me to introduce myself, my name is Sweeney Todd, a barber in Fleet Street. May I be of service to you? A trim, perhaps?'"

"We were in hysterics with laughter and struck up a conversation with the Demon Barber of Fleet Street. He danced with us both and then we parted, but we kept bumping into the chap. Eventually, my chum started to feel a headache coming on and wanted to call for her car so we could leave but I was enjoying myself for the first time in ages and begged off, saying I'd take a cab home. The clipper was nearby and assured us both that he would attend to me."

Emma continued, "We spent the rest of the ball together, dancing and talking, and got along just smashingly. He told me that he was single now but had a grown daughter and how he regretted not being more of a father to her when she was young. Oh, we talked about all sorts of things, both important and silly."

"Finally, midnight came and it was time to unmask. 'You go first,' I insisted, and he slid off his black mask and gave me a sparkling grin to go with the twinkle in his eyes."

"'Now, you,' he said."

"So I reached behind and grabbed a big handful of wig and pulled it and my eye mask all forward and off as one, then shook my hair out and looked up with my best smile."

"What happened?" cautiously asked Jessica, the faint tinkling of warning bells chiming in the back of her head.

"Why, the man went white as a ghost and froze stock still. For a moment I thought he had had a stroke! I actually had to put my hand on his shoulder and shake him a little before he snapped out of it. He looked just like your Seth did when he met me, only more so."

Uh, oh, thought Jessica. It can't be…

"Then he did the strangest thing. He put his hand on my head, grabbed hold of my hair, and tugged it ever so gently. I thought he was out of his bloody mind until he exhaled and asked if I was related to you. Of course, then it all made sense. You'd met and he thought I was you!"

Jessica's eyes grew wide as her cousin neared the ending of the story. Breathe, Jessica, breathe, she reminded herself.

"Well, we've been inseparable ever since. He wasn't going to be able to make this reception, owing to work, but when he found out I'd have to land in Boston due to the weather, and then drive all the way up here on the wrong side of the road, why he told me he'd cancel his work assignment and take me himself so I'd be safe and sound. He went through all that trouble even though he has to leave tonight for your capital. Isn't that sweet? It's been a long while since a man's cared so for me - and I like it! And just between us, love, I feel the same way about him; although I haven't told him so - yet."

"He's been a dear since we've met," she continued. "In fact, he dropped me off close by the gate and went to find a carpark. He should be here any minute…"

"Emma. What is this man's name? Please!" implored Jessica.

"Oh, sorry! I thought I'd already mentioned it. It's Michael Hagarty; he says he's an old chum of yours."

Several things happened at this point:

- As she looked at her cousin, Jessica's attention was drawn by the movement of a figure in the distance, over Emma's right shoulder. A lean man with salt and pepper hair had come in through the gate and was walking towards them.

- Shaking her head at what she anticipated to be an uncomfortable meeting at best, she then noticed Seth, laden with a tray of beverages and goodies, returning to the pavilion from the far left.

She was steeling herself for the encounter when Emma's voice roused her, "I say love, I need to freshen up. Which way to the loo?"

"I'll take you!" Jessica enthusiastically volunteered as she jumped up and led her cousin around the back of the canopy and away to the comfort station.

... ... ... ... ...

Well, I finally found a parking spot for the car! grumbled Michael Hagarty to himself. Now where did Emma get to? Oh, there she is … with Jessica. Take a deep breath, old boy. You knew this would happen as soon as Emma declared she would drive herself. These Yanks don't deserve such destruction. You know you had to come… for her sake, if nothing else. A smile lit up his face as he pondered the ending of his thought.

Which is what Seth witnessed from afar after he saw Emma and Jessica leaving and observed Michael Hagarty making his way toward the pavilion.

Stopping suddenly he thought, Son of a Gun! He actually came. The man's got brass, if nothing else. Or is there something else? he pondered as he watched the bright smile bloom on the MI-6 agent's face as he watched Emma walk away.

A staff member hurried up to Seth and addressed him, "Oh, here. Please let me get that for you sir, and would you like anything else?"

After handing him the tray, Seth said, "Yes, just a minute," and with that he quaffed the two glasses of wine on the tray. "Now, please bring two more glasses of white wine, two cold beers, and two shots of Irish whiskey over to the pavilion, as quickly as you can. Thank you, young fellow."

Then he turned and walked straight up to Michael Hagarty, who was standing under the canopy, looking after Jessica and Emma.

"Hello, Mr. Hagarty," greeted Seth as he came up from behind. "How are you?"

Whirling about, Michael sucked in a deep breath and replied, "I'm well, thank you, Dr. Hazlitt. And somewhat surprised that Jessica even invited me."

"She didn't. I put your name on the list," said Seth, smiling slightly.

"You?! Why? I wouldn't imagine that you'd want to ever see me again after I inadvertently put Jessica's and your life in peril."

"Let's just say that I knew Jessica would, and besides, I never thanked you for your good advice. You know, that bit about tomorrow is not guaranteed to anyone and we shouldn't be afraid of what was, or what might be. To live for what is. Those are powerful words - and they were a strong lesson. They got Jessica and me moving to where we are now. And for that, I'm grateful; thank you."

"You're welcome," Michael said humbly. "I'm glad it worked out. Emma tells me that you and Jessica are very happy."

"Emma tells you…?" replied a confused Seth.

"Ah, you haven't heard that part of the story, yet, have you? Emma and I met during the summer at a costume ball and have been seeing each other ever since. I must admit it was quite a shock when she took off her mask."

"Heh, heh, heh," laughed Seth as he got the picture. "A-yuh, I know that would be a surprise. So, you're smitten with each other?"

"It's more than that, much more on my part. In fact, after I realized that I had fallen for her it occurred to me that I owe you an apology."

"How's that?"

"The thought of anyone putting Emma in harm's way, no matter how good the cause, makes me want to just rip his throat out with my bare hands. I see now that's what I had done to Jessica and I understand now why you were so angry with me. I'm sorry. Truly sorry."

They were interrupted by the white aproned staff member bringing up a trays of drinks and followed closely by an assistant with covered platters of aromatic food.

"Just put them on the table," Seth instructed. Both men watched as four place settings were laid out. "I thought you and the ladies might need sustenance," indicated the young man as he led his assistant away.

Seth reached over an picked up the small tray with two shot glasses on it and offered it to Michael who smiled when he detected the aroma of Jameson whiskey. "I propose a toast, Mr. Hagarty. Here's to never being too wise to learn important lessons!"

"I'll drink to that!" the MI-6 man agreed as they clinked glasses and downed the spirits, then both slammed the thick glasses down on the table with a bang!

"You know, if I can possibly manage it, we might just wind up being related, Dr. Hazlitt. I'd be honored if you would call me Michael." And with that he extended his hand.

Seth took the offered palm in both of his hands and shook it earnestly. "The honor would be all mine - and it's Seth. And from the looks of it," he said as he watched the ladies returning across the pavilion, with Emma hurrying towards them - a huge smile wreathing her face. "I'd say your chances are pretty darn good!"

Jessica stared in wonder at the sight before her; Seth and Michael drinking together and then shaking hands most cordially. Funny, I didn't think I'd had that much champagne, she mused. Perhaps I've had too much sun… Maybe I should eat something.

Meanwhile, Emma came up behind Michael and tapped him on the shoulder, turning him around. "There you are! I've missed you!" she said as she threw her arms around his neck and kissed him fully.

Jessica smiled at Seth. "And I've missed you, too!" she whispered as she gathered him up and kissed him, as well.

When the kiss broke Jessica looked with amazement at her husband, her cousin, and Michael and blew out a breath. "I think a good bit of magic has drifted over from the show and settled right here on us."

"Mmmm, that's not all that's drifting about," noted Emma, sniffing delicately. "The food smells grand and I'm famished! Let's eat!"

They all concurred and the four of them sat down to a fine meal after a quick prayer of thanks.

Jessica's soul was elated by the camaraderie she saw developing among people she loved and she added a silent prayer of her own as they talked and began to eat. And thank You also, dear Lord, for the peace that has settled upon and with the people at this table. Amen.

... ... ... ... ...

{A/N: Angela Lansbury and Len Cariou (Michael Hagarty) played the lead roles in the 1979 Broadway production of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. A Musical Thriller. Reportedly, they became fast friends after that.}

{The Whoopie Pie is the official "Treat" of Maine. No, seriously, it is! Of course, blueberry pie is the official "Dessert" - and if you'd ever had a slice you wouldn't argue…}