"Come on Rizzoli! You better watch it or the little Princess might actually beat you."
The crack of wooden objects colliding together could be easily heard all through the forest followed by heavy breathing. Jane and Maura were currently going at it with wooden swords as Maura's training had continued. She was better with the sword than Jane originally assumed she would be. Sure she was going easy on her but it would be correct to say that she underestimated the little woman. Both Frost and Jane agreed that Maura was proficient in hand to hand combat and was efficient enough to move on to using weapons. The wooden sword was for Maura to get use to have an object in her hand and practicing swinging and block attacks. Jane thought it would be better if she were to practice with Maura. Casey had helped with the technicality of it but they did not think it was wise for Maura to fight him. Not at first at least. Maura had proven to be a very dedicated student and had never complained. She also did as she was told and did not give up. Jane felt an increased adoration for the strength and effort that this woman was putting forth. The honey blonde was easily becoming accustomed to her wooden sword that showed everyone she was ready for the next step. Currently, Maura and Jane were doing one of their battles that were common. Maura had not defeated Jane but she had come close, especially in today's session.
Jane just ducked a swing from Maura and tried to strike her as the other woman parried her blow. She was very quick with a sword and her reflexes had been expanding as Maura became a natural fighter. The older woman swung from above her head and Maura had spin out of the way. Jane turned to face the other woman and was surprised by the young Princess's kick to the stomach knocking the wind out of her and leaving her vulnerable. Maura raised the sword to Jane's neck in a threatening manner.
"Well Rizzoli, do you give up yet?" the honey blonde smirked while tilting her head.
Jane had become accustomed to Maura's new teasing. The younger girl learned it from herself of course, but she was surprised how much of an influence she had on Maura.
Jane rolled her eyes in response but could not stop looking at the cocky woman. "A little cocky are we Maur?"
"No just confident that I, what do they say? Kicked your butt?" she spoke with a mischievous glint in her eye matching her more noticeable smirk.
"Damn Rizzoli she told you!" Frost remarked as he and Casey laughed hysterically at the little woman's attitude.
I created a monster. Though Jane was glad for these new changes. Don't get her wrong, Jane liked Maura the way she was but she enjoyed seeing her being able to crack jokes and socially interact better with others, making more friendships. She had seen Maura get particularly closer to Frost as they talked about many things, she even had conversations with Casey which was not common for many. If anyone deserves friendship, its Maura, she's the best. Jane smiled at this thought but made her way back to reality.
"Yea well miss know- it- all I'd disagree with your statement. In fact I think the best part is yet to come." And with that Jane backed away from the offending sword, kneeled down and tackled the unexpected Princess to the ground. Maura made a small 'oomph' noise as her back hit the grassy terrain. She was slightly distorted for a minute unsure of what had just happened. After a minute she looked up and saw Jane Rizzoli but a huge smile plastered upon her mouth, as her entire face was expressing one similar to a child's. Maura could not help but crack a smile as she began to laugh hysterically as the other woman followed. They laughed so hard tears begun to fall down as they just continued to look at each other with adoring eyes.
"You ok there?" the male voice of Casey's asked suddenly.
This broke up the girls out of their stupor as they began to get off from the floor both blushing from embarrassment of their actions. Jane helped Maura wipe off the dirt from her dress and helped straighten it. They both looked at each other and nodded.
"I think that's good enough for today." Jane finally spoke which had everyone agreeing.
They began to make their way back to the village, Frost and Casey first discussing nothing in particular as Maura and Jane were trailing behind. They did not mind though, both wished for some time for just themselves but did not say this openly. Maura was spinning her rings as they continued walking. Finally Jane spoke.
"So you did relatively well today. You're making great progress."
"Thank you" she said with a blush within her cheeks.
"So you said you never fought before? I mean because you seemed to know your way with a sword quite easily.
"No. Well if being proficient in fencing since I was thirteen is equivalent then yes."
This stopped the lanky brunette in her tracks. "Wait what?! You told me you never did any fighting."
"I didn't. Fencing is considered a sport but not used for aggression." She spoke in a correcting manner. "Besides you never asked."
Jane aggressively put her fingers through her hair. "God woman you are ridiculous!"
"No I'm just stubborn. Like you!" she said proudly with a huge smile and walked away.
Jane stopped suddenly as she watched the Princess walk in front of her. Jane could do nothing but only shake her head. Yep she's a monster alright.
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They had finally made their way back to the village with the exception of Jane. Casey and Frost had other things they had to do and left. Maura nodded and looked around her surroundings. The scene before her was becoming somewhat familiar to the woman. She had been living in the village for about 6 months now. She had seen those who had lived alongside with her and had even gotten to know some of them. Mr. Jacobson was a blacksmith that she had met through Jane as she needed her dagger sharpened. He was a sweet man that had once had a wife but unfortunately died at the hands of one of the castle guards. Even with his loss he was the sweetest and happiest person she had ever met. He was always kind to her and acknowledged her whenever he saw her.
Another was Mrs. Brennan, who was a widowed mother of three. Her children were one boy, Finn age 12 and two girls, Aileen who is 7 and Fiona who is 3. The children were absolute angels that Maura had the pleasure to look after a few times. These were some of the residences in the village that Maura had also befriended. Many people were so sweet and generous to the Princess. At first she was afraid of what they would think of her and not like her. But Jane had explained to her that they would accept her with open arms. Speaking of Jane where is she? Maura thought as she began to look after for the dark haired woman.
"Lady Maura it's you!" a loud voice screamed.
Maura turned look and saw it was Mrs. Brennan's children Finn and Aileen. She smiled as she began to approach. "Well hello guys, how are you?"
The little boy smiled showing one his missing teeth. "Good just looking for fun."
"Ms. Maura we miss you! When are you going to play with us again?" the little 7 year old asked sweetly.
Maura smiled at this unable to ignore this girl's cuteness. "I don't know Ailee. I have been very busy I'm sorry. Where is your mother?"
"She's right here." An older woman stepped out and made her way toward them. "Hello Maura. How are you?" the tired woman asked as the held onto her curious infant.
Maura smiled at them as she noticed the small child. "I'm doing well thank you. Hello little one!" Maura cooed at the baby unable to resist a baby voice. Maura had recently discovered her fondness for children, even babies which was shocking. The small infant looked at Maura with big blue eyes as a small smile that formed every time she saw the familiar honey blonde. She outstretched her chubby arms wishing to go to her as Maura put her hands under her underarms and pulled her closer to her chest.
"We are doing well as to be expected. Being able to feed the children and myself just fine and have somewhere warm to sleep is what we need." She spoke softly. "Anyway I may have to make it into town for some supplies so I will be in need for someone to look after the kids. If you don't mind would you?"
"Oh of course Alice. I always enjoy watching the kids."
"Yes well I know they can be a handful. Particularly the older two. Maybe Jane will help you…."
"JANE! JANE!" the two children screamed.
Maura turned to see her friend smiling brightly as she kneeled down and stretched out her arms waiting for the two children to reach her. When they finally got there she embraced them tightly and picked them up. Both children screamed happily at this as they clung onto the brunette. Jane had been talking to them eccentrically and the children responded back just as enthused.
"It's strange how wonderful with children she is." Alice commented staring at the sight before her.
Maura nodded in response but did not take her eyes off the brunette. "Yeah she is."
As if Jane felt her gaze she looked at the honey blonde and smiled at her. She made her way toward them as she held onto the kids. "Hello Alice I have seemed to found these wild monkeys lurking."
"Were not monkeys Jane!" the two screeched.
All three women laughed loudly at this. "Yes they are very wild aren't they? Well those are my kids for ya."
Jane finally put the children down as they started to chase one another. Jane looked as the two children interacted with a smile on her face. She looked up at Maura and then then at the baby in her arms. "Hello sweetheart." She said in a soft voice as she stroked her cheek. The child pushed her face into the woman's hand seeking more contact.
Alice finally spoke. "Staying out of trouble I hope Jane?"
Jane looked at her incredulously. "What me? Trouble? Where did you ever get an idea like that from?" she smirked as sarcasm slipped from her lips.
"Enough you" the older woman remarked as she lightly shoved the Italian. She reached for her daughter and took her in her arms. "Maura make sure this rebel stays out of trouble. She was born to be rebellious."
"Hey I resent that!" the curly hair woman declared as everyone else laughed heartedly.
"Well I must get my kids fed. I will see you both later. Kids say bye to Jane and Maura."
"BYE JANE AND MAURA!"
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Two weeks ago:
The streak of the morning sun was peering in through the open window. The hazel eyed woman began to flutter her eyes but still wished to stay asleep. It had been very cold for the past few weeks and Maura wanted nothing more than to snuggle into the warm quilt and lie in bed. Maura closed her eyes and images of the last week passed through her mind. So much had occurred and the emotions were flooding through her body. It had been a week since her and Jane had made up from the attack. For the rest of that day, Jane was inconsolable. Maura was brokenhearted for the woman's distress. This was the first time the smaller woman had witness Jane expressing any emotions, let alone crying. Maura knew that she was truly sorry for her actions and would never mean to hurt her. Maura knew that it would not take too long to trust the other girl again since she knew how much Jane really cared about her. The past few days they had slowly spent time together and did activities that were during the day and usually in close range of others. Though Maura seemed to trust Jane, the older woman had a difficult time trusting in herself and it was obvious of her hesitancy. It took some time but they both were making their way to the way things were, maybe even better. Hazel eyes were opened as she found herself unable fall back to sleep. Then she noticed a homey smell that was invading her nasal cavity. Melanie is probably cooking breakfast. A heavy sigh was expelled from her body as she rose from her bed to start her day. Shivers overtook her body as her feet touched the cold floor. Wrapping the quilt around her body like a cocoon, she walked out of her room and down the hallway. The screech of a kettle could be heard along with a low rumble could be heard. When Maura reached the entrance of the main room a low, familiar voice began to speak that stopped Maura in her tracks. Jane.
"Oh no. Just trying to keep up to date with what is going on in town."
"And you haven't heard anything?" the voice of the redhead spoke.
"So nothing pressing I had encountered. Actually word about Constance or any of her minions has been unnaturally quiet, which is unsettling."
Melanie sighed. "Well maybe there isn't anything yet. Maybe she's not focusing on Maura anymore."
"Oh she is. Maura is the next in line to the throne. That is a threat for Constance, a threat she's going to want to eliminate. She's just biding her time until the opportune moment." The dark haired woman said and stared off into the distance. She looked up and saw the worried look upon the older woman's face. "Don't worry Melanie she'll be fine. Everyone in this town is watching out for her. Constance couldn't get her hands on her."
"I know Jane. I know how much you really care about her. I'm glad you're friends and so happy you both made up." She spoke as she stroked her arm.
The Italian woman lightly smiled. "Yeah, as I am. I really screwed up and I thought I wouldn't be able to fix it. Maura's an amazing person; she forgave me even when I hurt her. I don't deserve her as a friend."
"Jane you are a wonderful person with great qualities. Maura can see them and that's why she wants to be you're friend. She really cares for you too Jane."
"Well she shouldn't."
"Janie, you don't give yourself enough credit. She does care about you, just let her."
Maura felt a flustering blush take ahold of her as she continually listened to this conversation. She did not mean to stay and listen in on a private conversation not for her ears but she could not help herself. She had been seemingly doing this more often and other things not deemed, "ladylike". I guess I am really changing as a person. Maura backed out a few feet and loudly began to make her way to the open area. She looked at the two women who acknowledged her.
"Good morning Maura dear. How did you sleep?" Melanie asked softly with a smile.
Maura smiled back. "Good morning Melanie. And I slept well thank you." Maura looked at Jane who had busied herself by the pot of food.
"Well I must be going. Take care girls and I will see you later Maura. Bye Jane it was great catching up."
"Yes it has. Goodbye." The lanky brunette responded then looked at Maura. "Hey, Melanie and I made breakfast. Would you like some?"
Maura nodded her head vigorously. "Yes please. That would be wonderful."
Jane busied herself with setting a bowl of porridge. "Here you go."
Maura looked at her and thanked her as she began to eat her food. Jane had begun to clean up and then, Maura started to notice Jane rubbing her palms. The curly haired woman did this to try to relieve the pain from her hands. Maura noticed she did this more often when the weather was colder. Maura usually ignored this trying not to make Jane feel uncomfortable but she could not sit aside and watch her friend in pain. She rose from her seated position and approached Jane. The older woman did not notice her presence as she made her way closer. She finally realized when Maura was about a foot away from her and she tried to hide her hands in her pockets while looking down at her feet. Maura moved in right in front of the taller woman and tried to gain her attention. She stared at the frightened woman who was afraid to move.
"Jane. Are you alright?"
Jane did not react at first but continually looked away from the beauty before her. She finally muttered 'fine' trying to get the other woman to back off. This time though, Maura was unable to back down.
"Jane." Look at me, please. With still no response the younger woman, lifted her arm and place her hand on her friend's face, tracing the scar that was adorned there. Maura peered into the beautiful face before her. "Let me help you." She then grabbed her arm and pulled one of her hands in her own. Jane had not pulled away so she continued in touching her palm very gently. The angry scars that were present were a pinkish color that made it looked raw. They must still bother her immensely. She finally found the courage and had begun to rhythmically massage her palms. The girl was in a trance for a couple minutes just focusing on Jane's hand. She then heard a sniffle and looked up. Tears were pouring down the strong girl's cheek as brown eyes gazed into hers. Maura who was afraid that she hurt her friend instantly let go of her hand.
"Oh Jane I didn't mean to…."
"No." her dark voice croaked sadly. Maura was unsure of what she meant. "It feels… sooo good."
Maura finally snapped out of it and gently reached for her hand again and begun the process once more. Jane sighed in relief as the pain in her palms were slowly alleviating. The taller woman placed her head on the other's shoulder trying to seek as much contact as possible. Maura accepted the contact and placed her cheek along hers as they both basked in the warmth and peace the other was giving.
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"Hey Bass, buddy I found some strawberries. I heard they are your favorite. Come here."
Maura looked at her two favorite people in the world and was surprised what was happening. In recent events it had seemed that Jane had grown on her pet as he was not as nervous to be around her as before. Usually Bass hides from those he doesn't know or feel uncomfortable with. He was at first with Jane, but as time went by whenever she would stop by Korsak's her tortoise would make an appearance to her friend. Jane had started to occasionally bring the little guy some strawberries for treats. It was really sweet how they had begun to bond together. Bass had begun to nibble on the fruit within Jane's fingers as she used her other hand to pat his shell. This made Maura have a megawatt smile with the connection between the two. Jane would never admit it but she had really liked her animal. Jane and Bass not only interacted at home but also when he went out with them. Jane had silently agreed to take Bass to the majority of their trips to the lake. God she's gorgeous. Not only that, but Colt had really began to like Maura as he was always nudging her to give him attention. Jane told her that the horse is 'twidderpated with her' or something like that. Colt was kneeling next to her as she occasionally rubbed his long nose and mane. Unfortunately he and Bass did not get along as they must have both thought of each other strange. Usually both just stayed away from the other.
"Don't give him too much Jane. You'll spoil his appetite."
"Oh Maur, poor little guy needs a little bit of spoiling. He eats leafy greens every day for God's sake. A few strawberries won't hurt him."
Maura had just rolled her eyes and shook her head at the other woman's response. Though the girl could not stay mad; she just wanted to give something to Bass. I think she finally understands how much Bass means to me. She looked up at the sunset fading in the distance. It was beginning to thaw out the cold and it the early weeks of spring. Maura had missed the warmth and seeing the bright blue skies. Ireland had been cloudy and bleak and Maura just wanted to see more colors during the spring time. She was looking at environment and basking in its beauty. A gentle breeze was making its way through the woods that went through her hair. She looked at the others besides her and Colt let out a long sigh that left Maura chuckling as she scratched behind his ear. She then looked at Jane and saw she was still feeding Bass which must have been half a dozen strawberries that she needed to put a stop to.
"Jane that's enough you're giving him too many."
"Psh whatever mom." The brunette muttered as she rolled her eyes.
This statement stopped Maura. It had been so long since she thought about her mother. Not that she forgot about her. Never. But she had been busy with so many other things that it had been slipping her mind lately. So many memories were flashing before her as she did not realize she spoke.
"It's what my mother would say."
Jane quickly looked up from the tortoise and at the beautiful blonde. She had a curious look on her face as she was formulating an appropriate response. "Did she really?"
Maura smiled at this loving the opportunity to talk about her mother. "Yes. Whenever father would give me extra dessert she would nag him. Nothing bad but she didn't want me to eat unhealthy. Actually my father is like you, wanting to spoil me rotten." She smiled and stared off as she reminisced about her past. Jane just continued to stare at her.
"Tell me about her" Jane's husky voice asked. "I mean only if you wish…"
"She was very smart. Smartest in the land my Papa always said." She said and they both chuckled at this. "She was so kind and generous. Always thought of other before herself."
Jane had suddenly sat next to Maura. Maura looked into her eyes as Jane encouraged her to continue. "She actually was not from a wealthy family. She was a miller's daughter. Did you know that?"
"No I didn't know that." Jane responded shaking her head.
"Yes and she was taught how to read and write proficiently. Also her uncle was a healer and he taught her all about medicine. It was her passion and she loved taking care of people. Actually in town she was known and people would go to her to seek help. Even after she became queen she took the time to teach interested people in town this in order for them to help the sick and hurt. She was truly remarkable."
"She sounds like you."
"Oh no…I could never meet up to her level. I'm just…"
"An intelligent young woman; who cares more for the lives of her subjects than herself."
"Jane I couldn't even take over my own throne from Constance. I am a weak little girl that has to be saved all the time. She would be so disappointed in me…." She spoke sadly while looking down.
A hand reached under her chin and pulled her to face to the Italian's. "Hey don't say that. You are trying to learn how to fight to not just defend yourself but to protect others. You wish to fight against a woman who is very powerful and evil to save not only your father but the townspeople. Maura you are strong and courageous. You want to help those in need and do the right thing for the good of your people. That is not weak but selfless." She said as she stroked her chin. "I may not have known your mother but I know you and I know she would be proud of you. Any woman would be proud to have you for a daughter, Maura."
This created tears to cascade down the honey blonde's face as she peered at those dark brown orbs. The sincerity that was exposed from the woman's eyes was too intense for Maura to handle. She wrapped her arms around her friend and inhaled the homey aroma. "Thank you Jane. My mother would have loved you."
Jane continually rubbed circles along her back. "I'm sure I would like her as well." She lifted her head and pressed a kiss onto her forehead.
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They had made their way back from the lake. Loud noises could be heard that left Maura's heartbeat increasing. Though she thought she was being paranoid, she hoped it was nothing to worry about. They finally made their way into the village and saw an abundant of noises from loud music and laughing.
"Jane what's going on?" the blonde asked in confusion.
Jane tilted her head and gave a charismatic smile. "I'm not sure. Let's go find out." She said quickly as she grabbed her hand and pulled her to the commotion. The noise of loud drumming could be heard beating in the distance. Maura was not sure what was happening but she knew she would soon find out. Finally they approached many of the villagers in a large crowd with a large fire in the middle. Once they saw the women had entered as they turned their attention to them.
"Happy birthday Princess!" the crowd roared with joy.
Maura was in complete shock as she stared at the others who had smiles adorning their faces. Her birthday. It was her birthday and she didn't even realize. I can't believe I forgot my birthday. A happy Melanie and Alice made their way toward her. Maura squeezed Jane's hand tighter as she was experiencing a strange feeling.
"Happy birthday Maura dear." The red head said as she engulfed the younger girl in a tight embrace. Maura just stood stunned as Melanie had hugged her. Alice followed in suit as the younger girl was unsure of what was happening.
"Wait, how did you know?"
"Well dear we asked Sean since he has known you for many years. We thought we would throw a little party."
Maura had nodded in response and had a slight smile on her face. "Now come on honey so many people want to wish you happy birthday."
Maura looked at Jane quickly and had a questioning look on her face. "I'll be around I promise. Now go enjoy your party Maur." And with that both older women took the Princess away as the lanky brunette gazed at her lovingly.
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Maura had made her way around to everyone as they wished her a happy birthday. They had embraced her with hugs and warm smiles that melted the Princess' heart. These people seem to truly cared for and love her. This is a feeling she had not been accustomed to for a long time. Maura had regretted her avoidance of the town and her people from suffering her loss. Now she understood what my father saw in the peasants, particularly finding her mother. These people were real and they truly cared for one another; compared to the people from higher in society who were compulsive liars and only cared for themselves. Fakes. These people were so beautiful for how they were compassionate and caring for one another. They found themselves partaking in an extraordinary feast that was one to boast about. The night consisted of laughs and stories about the past. It was beautiful and Maura was grateful to be a part of it.
Finally music had begun to emerge as the people became excited. Maura had danced with some men both old and young as she truly enjoyed herself. A smile was present on her face for the majority of the night. Maura could not help but feel happiness flutter within her heart as she felt she was finally where she belonged. The Princess was interacting with so many people that it shocked her on her ability of interaction. Maura was now in a circle of her close knit friends that consisted of Korsak, Melanie, Sean, Frost, Alice and her youngest child.
"You should have seen her. She was always bringing in frogs and insects wanting to conduct experiments on them. Paddy was at odds with what to do. Maura was always just curious about everything." The ex-Captain of the Guards spoke about the young Princess. Everyone was smiling as Maura adorned a deep blush from embarrassment.
"Oh Maura you sound so adorable! I would have loved to have met you earlier." Alice said happily.
"Yes she definitely kept us on our toes at the castle." Sean chuckled as everyone else followed.
"That's nothing Sean. You should have seen Rizzoli when she was a kid. She was a hellraiser that girl!" Korsak said as the others agreed.
"Yeah I got that impression of her a while ago" Sean said as Alice smacked his arms playfully.
"Jane was sweet. Remember when she saved that baby bird that fell from that tree and brought it to you Vince? She was so scared that it would die." The redhead said.
"Ha oh ya I remember. Yea Jane has a big heart. But she was definitely born for trouble."
"Where is Jane anyway?" Frost asked quickly realizing she was not amongst them.
"I think my daughter has captured her heart." Alice said as everyone looked at her then at the direction she was looking at. The sight was to die for. The tall lanky brunette had her arms wrapped around Alice's middle child, Aileen as they were dancing to the music. Maura had a grin that exposed her dimples. She could not believe the sight before her. The big, tough Jane Rizzoli was happily dancing with a young child. She's absolutely perfect.
Vince finally spoke. "Like I said big heart."
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Maura was dancing with Frost and his impeccable dance moves. Maura was having a wonderful time and did not want it to end. While she was sitting with everyone she had gotten gifts. Melanie had made a beautiful purple dress that Maura absolutely adored. Alice had given her lotions and crèmes she had made. Frost had gotten her some fighting gloves along with scabbards and sheaths for a sword and dagger in which Korsak had gotten for her. Sean gave her a compass that had been embedded with the Doyle crest. Maura was grateful for her friends who she had grown to love and care for deeply. She continued to be led by Frost who had a large grin. They had been jumping around, following Irish dance steps, as he continually twirled her. Earlier he had asked her about how she felt her training was going and how she was. Frost was a sweet young man who would make a wonderful husband one day. A presence came behind Maura that had her turning around.
"Hey Frost can I get a dance with the birthday girl?" Jane's voice spoke which left shivers down her spine. Maura calm down, relax. It's just a dance. Frost quickly nodded as he stepped aside while Jane took his place. Maura gave her a quizzical brow that had the brunette chuckle. "Don't panic Maur, I'll volunteer in leading."
Maura then place her arms around her neck as she heard the music dramatically change in a fast pitch song. A new version of Irish song that was more popular to the townspeople; this was new for Maura. Jane must have read her mind as a wide grin spread across her face exposing her dimples.
"Jane I don't know how to…"
"I'm not sure either but just go with it." She spoke quickly as she pulled the woman in as she placed one hand on her back and the other holding her left hand and started to hop around in a circular motion.
"Oh Jane wait stop! You're going to fast!" the honey blonde yelled as she was being pulled along the energetic brunette.
"Here we go!" Jane said with a childlike look on her face as others were clapping all around laughing at them.
Maura could not help laugh along the joyous brunette. Jane's happiness was contagious and the blonde had not seen her so happy. Eventually she stepped out of the embrace and started to spin the Princess who increased her laugher. Jane could only stare at this beauty this woman held as she tried to compose herself. They finally stopped and were adorned by a thunder of applause and Maura did not wish to be anywhere else.
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The celebration had finally come to an end as everyone cleaned and made their way to their homes. Maura was one of the last few including Frost, Vince, Melanie, Sean, and Jane. They quickly got things together as it was only Korsak, Melanie and her and Jane.
"Maura don't be too late. Jane don't be too long please. Good night girls." Melanie said as both her and her husband went to bed.
Jane and Maura took a seat on a log next to the extinguished fire. Maura was happy for everyone who was there to celebrate her birthday but was happy she was alone with Jane. Jane smiled at her adoringly.
"So did you enjoy your party Princess?" she asked with an amused voice.
"Why yes I did. I really did. It's been while since I celebrated it." She spoke softly.
"Well your birth is definitely something to celebrate." Jane remarked.
Maura had begun to blush. "Thank you Jane. That's very sweet."
The taller woman smiled sweetly. "So I have something for you."
"Jane you didn't have to…."
"Maur you're my best friend. Of course I got something for your birthday." She said lightly. She then reached into a satchel and grabbed something and pulled it out. When she saw it her mouth dropped. It was a beautifully made bow with beautiful carvings along it, also with a nicely stitched quiver and a dozen arrows in it.
"Oh Jane it's beautiful." She said tracing along the bow. Then she saw beautiful carved letters of MD.
"It's pretty nice. I even put in your initials into it so everyone knew it was yours." She explained excitingly.
"Wait you made this?"
"Uh yeah. I thought since you were going to eventually learn this from training it might be best for you to have your own.
Maura nodded her head as moisture appeared in her eyes. "Thank you Jane. I love it."
Jane smiled at the girl. "Oh hey there's one more thing."
Maura turned to look at her incredulously. "Jane you gave me…."
"Hey relax it's nothing much. But I thought you would like it."
Maura reached into the satchel and pulled out her second present. It was a manuscript in which Maura opened and looked at its contents. It was written from Ancient countries and their text about medicine. Greece, Rome, Ancient China and others which fascinated the young girl. Maura had never seen anything so wonderful in all her life. She loved history and how medicine had developed throughout time, especially since her mother learned about it. Maura covered her mouth as she was trying to keep the tears in.
"Maur you ok? Is it bad? I found it in town and you said you loved reading about medicine particularly. I can take it…."
"NO!" she yelled half scaring the other woman. "No Jane it's absolutely perfect." You're perfect. "Jane I….." I love you.
Jane was just looking at her with a smile. "It's no problem Maur. I just wanted you to have a good day on your special day."
Maura smiled in response and pulled the other woman in a tight embrace and buried her face into Jane's neck. The words she almost spilled out were flashing through her head. I love her. I love Jane. This left her in a huge whirlwind. She lessened her hold but did not move away; instead she placed her lips on the other woman's cheek and pressed into it. She placed her mouth by her ear and whispered. "I did. I had a wonderful time and the reason is mostly because of you." Then Maura backed away from her friend and looked at her face. "Well Jane I should probably go it's getting late. I'll see you later?"
Jane nodded with a huge grin. "Yes of course Maura."
Maura rose to leave. "Well goodnight Jane."
"Goodnight Princess."
Maura turned and left to return to her home. She had an exhilarating day that she would have to still moll over. She had a realization, an epiphany if you will. Maura couldn't say this was a surprise now that she really thought about, more of a match within the making. This truth was not something she could deny any longer. Maura had fallen in love. Maura had fallen in love with her best friend.
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Chapter 20! Holy crap I can't believe I am this far within the story. It just blows my mind with how far I have come. This chapter was difficult because so much was going on in my life. I had been sick for a couple days unable to write and when I did feel better I had a ton of assignments for my classes but I finally made it! So much happened in this chapter I really like it. So Maura has her birthday and I'd say she turned 19 if anyone was curious. So the dancing part I total got from titanic as inspiration. Also Maura finally admits she is in love with Jane. Now I have been dancing along that factor for a while but like I said this was a slow build story but for an actually response from Jane will not take as long I promise. I just wanted to make it as realistic as possible as many of you can understand. Anyway so thank you for reading my story. Please continue to leave me reviews as I love to read them and fix anything that someone tells me needs fixing. Ok so thank you so much guys and see you next time. Bye!
~C.L. 3