On Edge
It was the end of the world, literally. Jessica Fletcher, famous mystery author, always figured the end would be long after she died. After all, so many nations had nuclear arms now, there was so much turmoil and always the constant pressure of wars on the horizon. But here it was, the first week of December, and the President just announced, with Congress approval, that he would be declaring war on a nation unfriendly to the United States. The discussion had been ongoing for weeks now but the latest attack had killed fourteen Americans and the citizens were clamoring for retaliation. Enough was enough and speculation was that the war would turn nuclear pretty quickly. The hollow feeling in her heart had been growing for weeks now.
She carried several blankets down to her basement. Last year when her basement flooded she had everything carted out while it was repaired. She ended up tossing just about everything and had it carted to the dump. She swept out the cement floor, sealed it, updated the small bathroom that had been disconnected for over a decade, then finished over the cinderblock walls with drywall and painted it white to brighten the windowless room.
She remembered they were going to make the basement a game room for Grady but somehow they never got around to it. A few months ago when several skirmishes between nations were occurring, she started having nightmares of bombs falling and she did the only thing she knew that would help her cope. She came up with a plan. She didn't mention it to anyone, they would only laugh at her or tell her she was being silly.
She ordered some build it yourself furniture and shelving and made a nice bed unit for herself. Queen-sized bed below with shelves and cabinets on the sides and above. She put extra linens, blankets, and towels inside along with clothing. She carted cases of water and stacked them against one wall and under her bed. She put up a shelving unit and filled it with cans of soup, tuna, fruits, vegetables, so many canned goods, salt, pepper, mustard, ketchup, and crackers of all kinds. Soap, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, and lotion was stockpiled. She had two barrels of water for washing carried down by two strong men. It was the best doomsday shelter she could make. The basement had no windows so she hung a few pictures. She made a copy of her favorite picture of her and Frank and hung it so she could look at it from the bed. She brought down a few of her most prized photo albums.
She had two safety helmets to wear if the bombs were falling. She sealed up all the cracks in the walls. She investigated portable oxygen units and although she purchased a few, it would only supply her with air for 8 hours or so, but hopefully enough to help her survive.
She had a lot of nervous energy and for weeks she had been trying to prepare. All the books she read said to prepare for a year so she only brought down comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, slippers, pajamas. The weather was cold but she also packed lighter clothes in case it was summer when she came to live in the basement. She had flashlights and so many batteries. She had a fishing box filled with medical supplies and over the counter medications. She had toilet tissue, paper towels, kitchen tools, dishes, bowls. She carted down boxes and boxes of cereal and shelf stable milk. She had bottles of multivitamins and nutritional shakes. She tried to make the room homier by placing rugs down on the floor.
Her biggest fear though was she would be alone. She didn't have a husband or children. She called Grady, her nephew, and told him she would feel better if he left New York. It would be an obvious target during war. As soon as tensions rose so high that the ordinary citizens realized they should go somewhere safer, everyone started looking for places to go. She hoped Grady would bring his wife and son to Cabot Cove but Donna's parents were retired now and decided to take them to their winter home in Arizona, an unlikely target. Her brothers were together in Idaho with their wives, children, and grandchildren. Many people were leaving the larger cities. And even though she had a large family, no one invited her to join them. Looking at it from their point of view, perhaps they didn't see her as an asset. She was getting up in years, not as strong as men, in fact she was in the least favored group, just above babies, and small children. The empty pit in her stomach grew but she tried not to give into her fears.
She realized she knew so many people, had a lot of casual friends, even friends she cared for greatly but Seth had gone to visit his daughter, Margie, when tensions grew and became impossible to ignore. Amos called her from Kentucky and invited her to stay with him but she assured him she thought she would be fine.
She had placed three different kinds of radios and several fire extinguishers in the basement. She climbed upstairs again and went into her bedroom. She needed to take down pillows and more toiletries. She heard the sound of her kitchen door opening and paused to listen. The news had already begun reporting looting in large cities and warning people about homes appearing deserted.
"Jess!"
Thank goodness it was Seth. She hurried downstairs. "Seth!" There he was, in her kitchen. "I thought you were staying with Margie." Everyone she knew had a place to go and Seth went down to see his daughter last week. He wanted to know what Margie's plans were and if they were going to come up to Cabot Cove.
"They were able to get a flight to Australia," he commented. "There wasn't room for me so I came home." His eyes stared into hers. "I didn't want to leave you behind, alone, and she didn't want more people so I wished her well and came to see what you wanted to do."
Jessica felt her eyes well up but she gave a grateful smile. "Thanks Seth. Any news on when we're going to launch an attack?"
"No news yet but I'm thinking it will happen at night so we have at least twelve hours or so." He walked over to her and drew her into a hug. "You've been struggling for weeks so I know you're planning something."
"Come with me," she said. She took him by the hand and led him to the basement door. Walking down the stairs, she turned on the light and Seth's mouth dropped open.
"Jess, you've made a bomb shelter? This is amazing." He walked around examining her supplies, the bathroom, even all the jugs of water underneath the bed. He checked the walls and ceiling and was impressed.
"If the end is near, I'm not going down without a fight." She clasped her hands behind her back so he wouldn't see them shaking.
They stared at each other for a moment.
"Would you like some company?" he asked softly.
"Oh Seth!" She dashed away the tears that fell before rushing into his arms. "I don't want to be alone."
"Well, what's left to do?" He hugged her tightly. He could feel the tension in her body and rubbed her back and shoulders. She wasn't pulling away like normal which told him how stressed she was.
"Go home and get clothes, any batteries and flashlights you have, your medical bag and any medicine we might need. You were military so whatever you needed then we'll probably need now."
Seth turned and headed for the stairs before rushing back to her. "We've got this, Jess." He kissed her cheek and gave her hand a squeeze. "The shelves in the stores are emptied of most supplies already so I won't bother going there."
Six hours later she was staring at a different room. Seth had brought in rubber matting to put on most of the floors to cushion it and they layered her two rugs on top. A cooler for items that needed to be waterproof. He brought a small refrigerator and stored cold packs inside. He had two trunks filled with clothing for him and they could use them as seats. He also had wide flexible cords running across the shelves and cabinets so the contents wouldn't fly out if there was excessive shaking. They put most items against the walls and left the center of the room clear. Her camping stove was set up on a card table with all the supplies underneath.
She smiled when she saw the chess set and the box of books and remembered she should find some reading material just in case. She brought her sewing basket down and her long forgotten knitting supplies. She would have to be really bored to resort to using them. He had emptied his cabinets of all canned goods and brought his perishables to her place. He lamented the fact that he didn't have much water stored.
The latest tv announcement urged citizens to leave the cities immediately and it was bedlam. Traffic was tied up with procrastinators that were now impatient to leave. They listed the top twenty-five cities most likely to be bombed and cautioned people to try to be fifty miles or more away. The entire East Coast was told to head inland. A lot of people drove into Canada or Mexico if they were able. Both countries opened their borders although prices were soaring so not everyone was able to afford to leave the United States.
During disasters you see stories on the news about neighbors helping neighbors and strangers helping strangers but before that happens, the panic starts and the worst of humanity is observed. Looters breaking into stores to obtain luxuries that would be useless in an emergency. Grocery and drug stores looted for cigarettes and liquor while armed gangs robbed and pillaged. Jessica was relieved it wasn't happening in Cabot Cove. People stood in lines at the stores buying supplies and it was orderly, so far. She had also gingerly carried down her entire supply of alcoholic beverages.
Seth told her he was so grateful she had prepared early. He had her pack her important papers and jewelry and he put them in the safe he brought over. It was in the basement now, beneath the stairs and behind several boxes of supplies. Jessica's eyes grew large when he placed several guns and ammunition around the room but understood someone could break in with bad intentions. She knew he owned a few but had never seen them.
The President was going to make an announcement at eight that evening so they went upstairs to watch it on tv. They sat on the sofa side by side with Seth squeezing her hand in comfort. The stillness outside meant most people were probably sitting in front of television sets waiting to hear the President.
"This country was founded on freedoms that we have defended and will defend again. It is our duty as citizens of the United States of America to lift the banner of democracy and keep our nation whole. We will not succumb to terror nor cower behind our walls."
Jessica was barely listening. She just wanted to know if it was starting."
"All Americans, every single one, should barricade themselves in their homes, in shelters, and away from windows. Everyone should have adequate food and water for three to seven days, for each person. When the sirens sound, you will have fifteen minutes to seek shelter. We will have a drill tomorrow at ten AM Eastern standard time. There will be no school or businesses open and we ask emergency personnel to go to work. The military will be on full alert and every soldier must report to their home base or the nearest one by 7 AM wherever you're located. We will have another announcement at noon tomorrow."
The report ended and Seth turned off the tv. He didn't want to hear what the news reporters were going to say.
"I think the test tomorrow is to get everyone into shelters as much as possible. Sounds like bombs will start flying tomorrow night." Seth hugged Jessica to him. She was shaking again. Her tremors started small but got larger until he was telling her to breathe in and out slowly.
"I'm going to make some phone calls to family and friends then charge the phones so they'll be at full strength in the morning." She wanted to hear her loved ones' voices and to tell them she loved them at least one more time.
Seth nodded at her, glad she found something to do to calm her. He went into the kitchen and cleaned up. He hoped they wouldn't lose power immediately but knew they couldn't hope for more than a few days unless it ended. Now that he was staying with Jessica, he wondered if she stockpiled enough water. He would need to inventory everything just to be safe.
At eleven PM Jessica was sitting on the sofa nodding off, refusing to go to bed so Seth covered her with a blanket. He decided to call Mort to find out what else the town had planned.
"Mort, Seth here." He spoke softly so he didn't wake Jessica. "I know buildings are being boarded up but is anything else happening?"
"Glad to hear from you, Doc. Yes, Main Street is boarded over and we have reduced electrical power so the street lights aren't working. We put out stop signs. We also sandbagged doors on the street. Thankfully it's too cold to be outside. I just hope it doesn't snow. Thank God for delaying snowfall this year."
"Good, I'm at Jessica's. We'll be holed up in her basement starting tomorrow. I know the National Guard is called up and they're asking everyone to stay sheltered but nogoodnicks will always be up to no good." Seth sighed. "You're using the high school for a shelter for those that need one? Do you have enough food and water?"
"The Red Cross assisted us with some food and drink and we're encouraging people to bring their own supplies. Only a handful of people have arrived so far," informed Mort. "Doc, you know we have a small shelter at the station house. Maureen will be with us but we aren't patrolling if the sirens blare, that will mean nuclear bombs or chemical ones. You stay safe, doc and tell Mrs. F too."
"Ayuh, Mort, best of luck to you and Maureen. I brought my emergency radio so I know Morse code and can use it. Channel 1350, right?"
"Yes, doc. I'm happy you can use it. We'll be reporting every hour on the hour after the sirens so wait five minutes before you send anything over."
"Will do. Goodnight Mort."
Seth hung up the phone and looked over at Jessica. Her pale face was no longer covered. He didn't think they had enough blankets. If and when the power went off, they would be cold. He trudged upstairs to the guest room to get more supplies. He could sleep tomorrow.
Jessica was up early. She had already boxed up her china dishes and other breakables, just in case and decided to strip the beds and air them out. She took a long shower and washed her hair. Seth cooked a large breakfast although neither was very hungry. All the stores and restaurants in town were closed. She took all the eggs from the fridge and put them in a pot to boil.
"I took garbage bags downstairs but how will we get rid of the trash once it's collected?" asked Jessica.
"The important thing is not to create trash so remove soap from their packaging, stuff like that."
By the time they did that, they had an entire garbage bag filled with trash that he took outside.
"The sirens will be starting soon, Jess."
"I know, Seth. Let's stand on the front porch. Just to get some fresh air while we still can." She bundled up in several layers before opening the door.
Seth walked out with her to her porch and stood there. Soon other neighbors were on their porches, waiting.
At exactly ten AM the sirens sounded and everyone went inside their homes. Seth locked up and pushed the sofa in front of the front door. It wouldn't stop anyone determined to get in but maybe they wouldn't find it worth the trouble.
The sirens were still blaring when he barricaded the kitchen door with the table. All the doors and windows were locked and shuttered when he went down the basement stairs. Jessica had carried her kitchen tv downstairs since there was still electricity and turned on the national news. He smiled when he saw she had brought two kitchen chairs down. He guessed his trunks weren't very comfortable to sit on.
Jessica couldn't sit still. She paced until Seth stopped her and pulled her into a hug. At noon the announcement from the President was simply, "Prepare for immediate war".
News reporting was done by satellite with reporters showing no activity on the streets of various cities. The National Guard, in protective gear, was patrolling and anyone found out on the streets without a very good excuse was hauled into jail and would have to wait there until the crisis was over.
"Seth, I just want to tell you that I'm so grateful you're here with me."
"Thank you, Jess. We're together, right? We'll get through this." He gave her shoulder a squeeze. "I know it's hard not to worry but there's nothing we can do right now so let's just relax as much as we can."
"How can you be so calm?" she asked, honestly curious.
"I've had training even if it was long ago but you know what, Jess. I believe when we die, we'll see our loved ones that died before us. You'll see Frank and I'll see Ruth, We'll see our parents. I know it's what we tell children but I believe it and it helps me. I don't want to die but that's because I don't want to suffer. I don't want to burn or be injured first but know this, my life before yours. I will protect you with my dying breath."
"Oh Seth," she hugged him tight and couldn't stop the sobs that came. He kissed the top of her head while trying to comfort her. She finally stopped and squared her shoulders. "Thank you. I think I got it out of my system, for now."
Seth smiled at her. "It's hard facing our mortality but we can survive. We're in a good place. We just need to worry about radiation. That reminds me."
He went over to a plastic bin and removed two packages. "These sheets are thick enough to protect us from radiation. Let's get some duct tape and put it in the area by the stairs. We need a safe area in case of radiation. This sheeting is thick. It will stop all alpha and beta rays."
Jessica nodded. "I packed rubber gloves and we can shower to wash the dust off us. I have oxygen but I couldn't get masks." She sat up suddenly. "Seth, do you think we can get my recliner down here?"
"Jess, we can share the bed. I promise you're safe with me."
She smiled sweetly at him. "Of course I am, but I'm thinking we can cuddle on the recliner and watch tv while we wait. It will help me feel better."
"Well, let's give it a try," he agreed.
Half an hour later, he was cursing internally. They were able to get the recliner to the basement door but no matter how they turned the chair, they couldn't get it through the door. Seth turned it upside down and looked it over. Squinting he pulled a lever and the top half separated from the lower half.
"Oh, I didn't know the chair was made up of two sections," exclaimed Jessica. She helped Seth take the lower half down the stairs then the upper half. She couldn't help but peek through the drapes but nothing was moving outside.
"Seth, I'm going to run upstairs and shower while I can. If I hear sirens I'll come down immediately." She ran upstairs and showered in her full sized bathroom. The hot water felt good and she was starting to relax. It wasn't dark outside yet.
She returned to the basement, dressed in clean clothes and carrying more bedding.
"If you don't mind, I'll shower as well." Seth gathered a few things and went upstairs.
Jessica remembered she wanted to bring the broom and dustpan downstairs and her dusting supplies. Her need to keep moving was urging her on. She brought her portable heater downstairs hoping they wouldn't need it. It was chilly in the basement but bearable.
Twenty four hours later she wasn't as positive. She was cold. Seth informed her the utilities were probably cut off as a safety measure for the power plants. Infrastructure is usually targeted during war so the US was being proactive. He had returned to his home to gather more blankets and comforters. The basement didn't have a fireplace and with the power off, there was no way to heat the room. They were still running upstairs to shower and they were cooking using her gas stove in her kitchen. Last night they had snuck outside in her backyard just to get some fresh air. They felt like naughty children but they knew they could get inside within a minute if the sirens started.
She was worried about complacency because a lot of people didn't have a week's worth of food and people had special needs and medical emergencies. Hospitals had discharged everyone they possibly could. Seth had placed a note on his office door urging people to seek emergency aid at the hospital and noting there was no medication or drugs inside. Jessica told him she would understand if he needed to go but he told her his place was with her and he wasn't one of the emergency room physicians on duty.
The first night they slept on the recliner, dozing off and on, listening to the news. They were snuggled beneath a comforter with pillows around they would sleep in the bed. Jessica was wearing a sweatshirt and long johns with socks while Seth had on his pajamas. She was shivering in the bed when he got in and she immediately plastered her body to his back.
"Seth, you're so warm."
He chuckled. "I get hot easily. Come here." He wrapped an arm around her and handed her a wool beanie to put on her head. Within minutes she had warmed up but she didn't move away.
"Seth, did you ever think about going out on a date with me? A romantic one, I mean."
"Ayuh, but you got famous and I didn't think it was a good idea anymore. I didn't feel I was good enough for you. By the time I worked through that, we were established friends and I didn't want to rock the boat and ruin it."
She wrapped her arm across his waist. "When this is over, I hope you'll ask me."
Seth looked down at her. "Really?"
"Yes, really." She kissed his cheek and said goodnight.
He squeezed her and closed his eyes. It felt like only moments but sirens blared and startled them awake. It was eleven forty-five PM. Seth got up and turned the tv on and moved it so they could watch from the bed. He got back under the covers and kept an arm around Jessica. The United States had launched an attack. Barrage after barrage was being launched at the enemy and Jessica prayed for the civilians in danger.
War was tiring. The enemy was fighting back but so far was attacking military targets nearby and nothing had been launched at America. Sadly, Americans were getting arrested for breaking into homes in search of food and in some cases staying in the homes which were better than the shelter they had. The government opened up more shelters and utilities were turned off on schedule now. It was winter and one third of the country was coping with freezing temperatures.
When Jessica wasn't in bed, she was in the recliner. Seth didn't want her to leave the basement but he knew how hard it was not to have sunlight and he couldn't fault her for wanting to look out the kitchen window at times. Then the news that bombs were heading to US territories came.
Seth held Jessica as she shuddered. Was the mainland next? So far no nuclear bombs have fallen but how long until one is launched? Seth told her the US had weapons that would attack the bombs coming toward the US but how accurate were they? She was so tense and was having headaches every day. Electricity was turned on for a short period and they risked taking warm showers. Seth teased Jessica for washing dishes while he showered and she was able to smile at him.
That evening, cuddled on the recliner, Jessica was warm. It would get cold again. The power had gone off again but for now she was warm and as safe as she could be given the circumstances.
She wasn't sure if she made the first move or if it was Seth but looking at each other, their faces came closer together and suddenly they were kissing. She savored the feeling of being close to someone. His hand was on her neck, fingering the pulsepoint, stroking her skin.
"Jess," he murmured. "In times such as these, it's normal to want to feel alive, to want to be with someone intimately."
She didn't even answer. She was trying to unzip his jacket. She wanted to touch him. She feverishly tried to remove her own jacket before his hand stilled hers.
"Look at me," he said softly.
She looked into his eyes. She could see the compassion and desire in his eyes. "If this is what you need, I am more than willing. I need it too but we can't undo it if the war is over tomorrow."
"I know," she replied. "I'll deal with it later if need be."
He urged her to stand up and got up himself. He removed his jacket and shoes while she did the same. The room was chillier than a few moments ago but he urged her to get under the covers and remove the rest of her clothing. He stood in front of the bed and did the same.
She watched as his body was revealed to her, his arousal obvious. He stared at her for a moment before joining her in bed.
"You're sure?" he asked.
She began kissing him, giving him her answer with deed instead of word. She became heated as his hands began to roam and their kisses became more passionate.
There was one lantern lit on the other side of the room so visibility wasn't great but good enough. Seth leaned back to look at her and smiled as he cupped her breast. She moaned when he kissed it, watching her nipple harden and hearing her made him want to please her even more. He lavished both breasts before burrowing beneath the covers and leaving a path of desire behind him. His hands, tongue, and lips moved slowly.
She pleaded with him to move faster but he took his time. He was driving her wild. Couldn't he see she was going to combust if he didn't move faster?
Jessica slowly floated back to earth. Dear, sweet Seth was holding her, rubbing her back, whispering in her ear. She couldn't comprehend the words but she knew he was telling her he loved her. "Thank you, Seth,"
she mumbled, as she drifted off to sleep.
She woke up when she became too warm. The power was on again. Glorious heat was blowing down on her. The other side of the bed was empty. She got up slowly. Grabbing her robe she covered herself and began stripping the bed. Seth was probably in the shower. She went upstairs and started the washing machine before entering the kitchen and starting the coffeemaker and filling the kettle with water.
She went into the family room and turned on the tv. News was on the air constantly now. A general of some sort was discussing the likelihood of nuclear arms being deployed in the next day or two. A chill went up Jessica's spine. She heard Seth coming down the stairs and looked up.
"Good morning, Seth," she said softly.
"Morning, Jess." He wrapped her in a hug. "You okay?"
She nodded her head and hugged him back.
"You better grab a shower while you can. The news is getting worse."
"Will you throw the load in the dryer when the washer stops?"
Seth grunted in agreement and she went up to shower.
Jessica was pacing again. Seth had been soothing her during the day and now that night had fallen she was overflowing with nerves again.
"Jess, I'm going to teach you some breathing exercises and I have a little surprise for you."
Jessica stopped walking and looked at him. Seth went over to one of his trunks and took out some small hand weights.
"These are two pounds each and five pounds each. They aren't going to bulk you up but they will strengthen you. I want to teach you how to breathe with the weights. I promise you the nervous energy will be utilized for good instead of driving you crazy."
"I don't know, Seth."
"It's either that or we'll be spending a lot more time in bed and to be honest, it might kill me but what a way to go." He smiled widely at her and she laughed.
"Okay, show me but I'm getting credit for saving your life, Seth."
Seth took her through her paces. She did find it calming to breathe deeply, in and out regularly and found herself relaxing. Concentrating on her breathing she didn't let any other thoughts enter her mind. After thirty minutes she stopped and beamed at Seth.
"That was wonderful!"
"Ayuh, it has helped me many times over the years." Seth put away the weights and led her to the recliner. Covering her with a blanket and then a comforter, he explained that it would get cooler now and he didn't want her to lose her body heat.
"I don't mind snuggling together," she said. Clasping his hand in hers she settled back to listen to the radio news. She must have dozed off because Seth nudged her twice before she woke up. She sleepily got into bed and kissed Seth goodnight.
Sirens blared at three AM. Jessica jerked awake and sat up. The power was out but Seth was turning on the lantern near him. Jessica had been sleeping soundly for once and she was disorientated but quickly reached for the radio sitting on the shelf in the headboard and turned it on. Missiles have been fired at the United States. This was not a drill. Jessica offered up a quick and silent prayer.
Seth stood and began dressing. He dressed in layers and Jessica copied him. He put on a lightweight jacket with a hood and secured it so his head was covered. He put on a hospital face mask so only his eyes were uncovered. He put on rubber gloves and assisted Jessica with hers.
Yesterday he had determined the safest place for them was beneath the stairs so he made room and placed her two kitchen chairs up against the wall underneath the support beam. There were already blankets there. Jessica handed him a safety hat and he placed it on his head. The sirens continued to blare. Jessica took the radio and headed beneath the stairs. She put a pillow behind her back and head and tried to get comfortable.
He grabbed her hand and held it to his heart and she leaned her head on his shoulder. After half an hour the sirens stopped and she lifted her head. Seth switched on the radio and they learned one ballistic missile reached a town near Seattle, Washington but most of the missiles landed in the Pacific Ocean. Four other missiles landed in the Atlantic Ocean hundreds of miles short of land. Being attacked on both sides was strange but at least the middle section was untouched so far. She thought of Amos in Kentucky.
Jessica didn't realize she was crying until Seth wiped her face with the blanket. He urged her to stand and settle on his lap so he could hold her in his arms. He kissed her softly while slipping his hand underneath the layers she wore. His warm hand caressed her abdomen. She thought about friends and family, hoping they were safe. As bombs fell through the night she was pretty sure none had come close to Maine. After all they were nearly surrounded by Canadian land and hitting Canada or Mexico might draw more countries into the war. Sirens blared off and on until well after nine in the morning.
"Jess, I think we're okay for a little while. I'm going to take you upstairs for a nice long soak in the tub while I check the house. I left a pipe dripping but it got below freezing last night and I want to take a look.
By lunchtime Seth had checked over the entire house. Mort called to say more people were fleeing North and he was expecting a lot of traffic. The motels and inns were full and they were establishing another shelter at the elementary school. Seth knew Jessica would volunteer to help but he nixed that idea.
"Jess, we have to face it. We aren't the young ones. Let them step up. It's time. Do you know why we aren't with our loved ones? Don't blame them. It's a matter of survival now. You think I don't know Margie was relieved I didn't go with them? It's not that we aren't loved but we aren't their first priority. Even the hospital only wanted my services if we were actually hit, otherwise I'm just another body to take resources like food away from able-bodied men and women."
"But Grady…"
"Loves you and is probably filled with guilt. His in-laws probably only had so many resources and their priority was their daughter and her family. Don't be angry with them."
"It's like the stories I heard as a child where some cultures put their old people on icebergs to let them float away after they could no longer be useful. I don't feel old."
Seth kissed her cheek. "We have plenty of life in us and years ahead if we get out of this war soon."
Life normalized somewhat. Essential people went back to work but schools remained closed and children were taught at home, sometimes by inept parents. Food banks distributed food once a week but water was distributed daily. Snow fell in Cabot Cove so electricity wasn't shut off as often. People worked from home wherever possible but there were a lot of complaints about bills to pay and no work.
Seth and Jessica spent their mornings outside for an hour or so each day. The grocery store, banks, and drug store opened for a few hours every day but the prices were so exorbitant that many people couldn't afford to purchase much. Seth didn't reopen his office but he made house calls when someone called and he visited the shelters once a week to refill prescriptions or look over a sick individual.
He complained about having to spend eight dollars for six oranges but Jessica wanted orange juice and there wasn't any bottled or frozen anymore. He also picked up a container of strawberry ice cream.
Jessica couldn't find it in her to write mysteries so she started a blog which had thousands of followers. The internet wasn't very reliable at times but she wrote up posts in advance and uploaded it when the internet was available. She also started a small garden. She brought out bags of soil and pots from her shed and placed her plants upstairs where they could get sunshine from the windows and lights she set up. Hopefully in a few weeks she will get tomatoes, spinach, and carrots.
It was amazing what the stress of war can do to a person. Strong independent Jessica Fletcher allowed herself to be vulnerable. Her relationship with Seth was much deeper than before. Seth in turn became more mellow. He no longer had to hide his feelings and his caring and affection shone brightly. Since the government declared a curfew from 5 PM until 8 AM for the majority of the country, they had a lot of time to talk, cuddle, and play chess.
The bombings didn't let up although the damage wasn't very great yet. Atlanta and New Orleans were hit several times and loss of life was in the hundreds. Each time there was a successful hit, people would gladly shelter again but within a few days the complaints would start again and cries for annihilation of the enemy were becoming more vocal.
Seth complained that escalating the war meant nuclear armaments but no one cared. The disruption to the distribution of goods was a problem. Since most workers were home, factories weren't producing goods. Imports were low and exporting as well. Banking was online only which wasn't convenient but there was no personnel for armored truck deliveries. Churches weren't allowed to open so fervent individuals met in private homes and priests and ministers made house calls.
Christmas Eve was spent carting trash out to the dump and tidying up while there was a forty-eight hour reprieve. Both countries were enjoying a cease-fire. Seth and Jessica took a long walk around her neighborhood just to stretch their legs. It was good to speak with neighbors for a few minutes. Even though Main Street was boarded up, select stores had opened. Charlene Sassi opened her bakery and gave out small Christmas cakes to those that came. She also had some of her regular fare. She sold out quickly but Seth was grateful for the four blueberry muffins and the Christmas cake they were able to get.
They stopped by the police station to see if help was needed. Mort thanked them and told them they were running low but expected a delivery soon. Jessica looked at Seth and they left to return a couple of hours later with two cans of coffee and a few food items. Mort told them all his deputies emptied their cabinets and brought food over. They left after wishing Mort a Merry Christmas and told him to stay safe.
Christmas Day they tried repeatedly to contact family by telephone but the circuits were always busy and cellular phones hadn't worked in weeks. Seth and Jessica exchanged gifts, grateful they shopped for each other early. Seth's gift to Jessica was a cuckoo clock she had been admiring for weeks at an antique store but wasn't sure she wanted to buy. Once she decided she did, it was gone. Her gift to Seth was a new watch. His everyday watch's glass lens was cracked and chipped but he didn't want to get a new one until the watch stopped working completely. She also gave him her traditional gift of a bowtie. This one a gaudy orange and blue one that he got excited over and loved. She rolled her eyes. They celebrated with a bottle of wine and the Christmas cake.
Bombings weren't having the effect on people that was anticipated by the enemy. The United States was so large that you would need several thousand missiles launched nightly to have an impact. Two months after the war started, the enemy began to backtrack and the assault on American soil halted. Jessica sorted through her belongings and brought up several unused supplies like the extra blankets and pillows they didn't use. It was still winter but with the power on, they had heat and were warm.
Their final night in the basement was a relief. The sirens hadn't blared in over a week and it appeared that a treaty would be reached and the war would be over. The two months they endured wasn't very long in the grand scheme of things but they wanted their life to return to normal.
"Seth, I don't want you to move back home," began Jessica. "I want you to stay here with me."
"I'd like that but will you be able to handle the gossip? Are you just afraid to be alone now?"
"I don't care about that, Seth. If they're so concerned about my wellbeing, why didn't they care enough to invite me to shelter with them? The ladies at Loretta's pooled together at Ideal's house. I'm a single woman too."
This was the first time Jessica mentioned the hurt she felt from her friends. "I've come to their aid on several occasions in the past year alone but even though we've known each other for decades, we're more friendly acquaintances than long time friends."
"I'd be honored to move in on a permanent basis," answered Seth. "I'll let my landlord know I'll be moving out within sixty days. I'm going to retire."
"Seth! Are you sure?"
"Ayuh, this crisis showed me that this town can manage without me and I loved the time we had together. I want to be with you every day, maybe not every hour though." He smiled at her. "We get on together just fine. If you decide to write again, I'll fill my time with something else. I want to take care of you. Call me old fashioned but I want to cook your suppers and manage your garden and make the repairs here as needed."
Jessica sighed. "Will you be happy not working? I'm not sure I have it in me to write again."
"Sure you do. You just need time to recover from the war." He took her in his arms. "I don't have a lot of money, as you know, but enough to live on since I won't have the expense of renting my office and home but I'll contribute."
"Seth, this house is paid for and my monthly expenses aren't very much. We'll manage. I'll pay the utilities and you can buy the food."
Not wanting to get into a discussion about finances Jessica changed the subject. "I love you, Seth. I'm sorry it's taken me so long to figure it out. I knew you cared and so did I but I didn't realize how deep my feelings ran until you were gone to Margie's and I was alone. I felt empty because you weren't around. I think I suspected that I needed you more than I thought."
Seth smiled. "There will be other wars but now we don't have to worry about what to do, who will be there for us, and we'll never move the recliner upstairs."
Suddenly sirens blared. With a look of confusion they stared at each other before heading for the basement door. They didn't bother turning off lights or locking doors. They were so well trained that they immediately headed beneath the stairs. They heard the noise in the sky as the air force squadron took to the skies. There wasn't any information coming through so Seth just held Jessica and murmured quietly to her.
It was bad, very bad. The bombing reached the Eastern shores. Boston, Baltimore, Charleston, South Carolina, and Miami each suffered damages but the worst were chemicals were used. Immediately warnings were given to seal rooms, to stay inside, to wash if outside within ten minutes of the blasts, or half an hour if you were near open windows and such. The enemy wanted to fool America into lowering their guard by pretending they were ready to negotiate.
The panic was tangible. Americans, so used to feeling safe, had never known war on their own soil since Pearl Harbor. Although cities had been bombed before, chemical warfare hadn't been employed. Fear went through people like a hot knife through butter. Everyone wanted the President to respond.
"Jess, we were lucky, very lucky. We got too lax and it could have cost us our lives. One of the bombs missed Baltimore and struck nearly eighty miles away in a small town."
"You're right, Seth. If we had been cooking or outside, it would have been worse."
With renewed determination, and quite a bit of fear, they closed up the house securely. They turned off the electrical main panel as well as shutting off the gas. They would do without for a while. Everyone seemed to be in a similar frame of mind. People remained in their homes or in the shelters during curfew. Curfew was extended from four PM each day until ten AM. A treaty was unlikely now as hearts were hardened against negotiations.
For a solid week bombs fell nightly. The enemy seemed to want to instill fear because the bombs could land anywhere. One fell thirty miles north of the New Hampshire border in Maine. You weren't necessarily safer in rural towns anymore. The odds were still in your favor but luck no longer was.
During the week of shelling, as Seth called it, he and Jessica remained in her basement. During the day they talked, played chess, read books, and Jessica even got out her knitting needles. But at night the tension rose and he had to soothe Jessica. He didn't mind having her in his arms and snuggling with her. Their lovemaking intensified as well. At times he was worried he couldn't outlast her.
They discussed everything under the sun. Their fears, desires, unresolved issues. He told her he would like to speak with Margie again. It had been over a month and she urged him to phone her. They were saving their battery power for emergencies but a few minutes would dispel one issue from their lives. He made the call with Jessica in his arms and even though it was less than five minutes, his spirit was lifted and forgiveness was granted by father and daughter. He told her to call Grady and it didn't take more than a minute for her to agree.
As expected Grady had been feeling guilty but she told him to take care of his family and not to worry about her. Seth would be with her. Grady confessed he felt like a failure, like he failed Frank. He wanted to come out there with Donna and little Frank. Arizona was pretty safe but they were too close to Phoenix in his opinion and he worried about chemical gas and radiation. Jessica tried to be reassuring but she didn't know herself what he should do. She did wish he had learned to stand up to his father-in-law over the years.
She ended the call, happy that she had heard his voice again and less discouraged than before. Seth listened to the announcements on the radio every morning and evening and determined they could go upstairs for a few minutes come morning.
As soon as curfew ended, they went upstairs. Seth turned on the power and started the washing machine while Jessica brought up the sheets and blankets that would be washed even if they couldn't dry them. Seth urged her to shower as soon as the water was hot. They had been using the basement bathroom but it was small so it was a quick wash up with tepid if not cold water.
Once again, the President made an announcement for the entire country to hear. It was time to use supreme force and he encouraged the citizens to pray.
"Do you think he means nuclear bombs?"
"Even if they used atomic bombs like those on Hiroshima, it would be devastating."
"Thousands of years and man still can't resolve issues without war. What's the point of the United Nations?" Jessica's frustration was clear and Seth pulled her into a hug.
The day was calm and clear but it started snowing and grew cold. Jessica was happy they were able to wash linens and even dry most of it. They washed clothes as well but it was time to return to the basement. They carried everything down into the basement and locked themselves in. Jessica spent time folding sheets and putting them away.
The news reports were starting to mention what to do in the event of nuclear missiles striking. Since the war remained between two nations, so far, the world might not end although one or more nations might no longer exist.
And then their worst fears were realized. A bomb hit six miles from downtown Cabot Cove. The force of the blast damaged many buildings and homes. Sirens blared, car alarms rang, fires were started, gas lines were disrupted by explosions. Emergency speakers informed anyone outside to find shelter immediately before fallout and radiation began which would be in minutes.
Seth and Jessica were jolted by the explosion and he immediately got them beneath the stairs. It was close but he didn't believe the house suffered major damage however it would wait until it was safe to determine. Not knowing if chemicals were utilized Seth tried to get Jessica to put on a mask but she would only do it if he did. Instead they wet washcloths and covered their faces.
They waited two hours before the sirens stopped for a short time. Radio news was telling the citizens to remain inside if possible. Over a dozen homes were damaged on the southern end of town but the impact was on Kotter's hill which had no structures.
Seth sent up a prayer of relief that it hadn't struck Main Street. He ushered Jessica into bed for warmth as they listened to the news. They cheered that it wasn't a chemical bomb. Phone service was out so they couldn't contact anyone to let them know they were safe. The fear that gripped them earlier was starting to recede and in its wake was fierce determination and an inner strength was brought forth.
They stared into each other's eyes as they listened to the news. The heartfelt affection for each other was there to see. If you had asked Jessica last year if it were possible to fall in love during war, she would have said possible but unlikely. Relationships begun during times of crisis don't have longevity usually. But they were friends long before they were lovers and the love they had for each other deepened considerably. Jessica realized that she trusted Seth completely. When they disagreed, each listened to the other explain why and resolutions came more often.
"Jess, we can still leave. Flights leaving the country fly out during the day." Seth said softly.
"Seth, I believe the war is about to expand into other countries. This might become World War Three. Allies and enemies alike are already choosing which country they hope to prevail." She kissed him lightly. "I prefer to stay but I'll go wherever you go."
Seth hugged her. The warmth of her body seeping into his was comforting to both of them.
"I never thought much of war anymore but I thought it would be over quickly and not dragged out. I can understand why people want us to wipe the country off the face of the earth so we don't endure more damage and lost American lives." Seth frowned. "Loss of life is inevitable but we have to lessen it while we can. If this war grows much larger, thousands more will die."
"Let's talk about something else. I worry I'm going to develop ulcers." Jessica smiled at him. "Did I tell you my carrots have started to sprout? When it's warmer I want to grow a vegetable garden. I love the thought of cucumbers and lettuce. We can grow our own salads."
Seth joked with her easily. It lessened the tension and she slept better when she wasn't battling demons in her sleep.
March roared in like a lion. It rained for the first twelve days, then turned icy cold again. The bombings had returned to major cities again, mainly New York City and Baltimore/D.C. The Government secured more shelters in those cities and buses drove people to shelters as far as two hundred miles away.
America was almost unrecognizable. Employment was on the rise but the hours were limited. Curfew was still in effect and the crime rate was virtually zero. Criminals were punished to the fullest extent of the law and since parole officers weren't going to work, no one was being let out on parole. Food stations were set up and boxes of food were handed out during the day. People were asked not to come in groups as the sirens could go off at any time.
Each morning when curfew ended they would set about doing whatever chores were needed. Jessica was pleased they worked so well together. Seth had relented and there was electricity in the kitchen and basement. Jessica had brought down her two crockpots and usually had something cooking in them.
The stress and tension Jessica had been suffering through was common among a lot of people but Seth kept watch over her. When things began to get to her he would encourage her and she began to cope better. She was sleeping at night even during the sirens sometimes. She often was grateful for surviving another night and Seth reaped the benefits.
"Jessica, I've been thinking," began Seth one morning.
Jessica turned to study him. He rarely called her by her full name.
"The courthouse is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from ten in the morning until noon. I know Judge Harper. I would be honored if you would accompany me there so we can marry. I know I sound practical rather than romantic but I love you and want you for my wife."
Jessica smiled at him. "I would be honored as well, Seth."
They exchanged kisses and made declarations of love and devotion to each other. Jessica was very happy.
"I know we don't have rings, flowers, or anything but I don't want to wait," pleaded Seth.
Jessica kissed him. "We can get rings later. I know what's most important to me."
For the first time in decades they removed their wedding bands. Seth added his band to his dog tags while Jessica put hers in the safe with her other jewelry.
They made the drive to the courthouse around eleven-thirty. Seth exclaimed that gas prices had tripled and was grateful he didn't need any. Judge Harper met them in his office since no one needed his services that day. He gladly married them and even called his brother-in-law, a jeweler, to run down with a couple of wedding bands.
They immediately drove home and locked themselves inside. There were no reporters at the courthouse.
"There's a few hours before curfew and I can't give you a honeymoon but if you'll prepare a meal for us, I'll work on making sure I give you a good memory." Jessica smiled widely at him and waggled her eyebrows. Seth quickly scrambled to put a meal together and carried it down to the basement.
Jessica joined him wearing a beautiful negligee she owned. They ate while discussing the wedding they would have given each other if possible. While Seth was telling her church weddings were overrated and garden weddings either smelling of bug spray or dealing with bugs, he had her laughing at the picture he created.
After eating, she led him upstairs to her bedroom. Soft lighting lit the room since the curtains were closed and the shades drawn. The bed was turned down and soft music played.
"Jess," breathed Seth.
She turned to him and placed her hand on his arm. "Make me your wife, darling."
They were no longer young but there was still a lot of fire inside as the passion rose within and they consummated their marriage. They showered together playfully and it was an exhausted pair that returned to the basement in time for curfew to begin.
Jessica laughed late at night and Seth arched an eyebrow at her. It was after midnight and bombs were being launched somewhere.
"I was just thinking we'll be able to tell people there were a lot of fireworks the night we married."
Seth smiled and shook his head. He was glad she was able to find humor in the situation.
Humor was needed. As the intensity grew, the US was sending more and more missiles at the enemy, and more countries entered the war. They were calling it World War Three and tentatively no nuclear bombs had been used but damages were growing as well as loss of life.
Three months of terror enveloped the country. Curfew is constant now. Food was delivered to homes and shelters by the National Guard. The military reserves were called up. The nation was pulling together now. Congress was working as a unit instead of like bickering children. 911 was the only working phone number to stop information from leaving and 411 for any questions regarding the war or messages for the National Guard stationed closest to you.
Seth and Jessica spent time together and to make sure they weren't getting on each other's nerves, they separated at times. He would read while she did something on the other side of the room. They did plenty together as well. They worked with weights and exercised. They went upstairs and worked on the garden that was doing wonderful now. Seth studied recipes and came up with fabulous meals with the ingredients they had on hand.
July arrived, along with the heat but it was cool in the basement. There were less bombs coming to the US now that other countries were fighting. In August the President told its citizens that it was time to return to normal but with precautions. Business would have to have a safe area in order to resume work. Schools would open in September while most working hours would be streamlined into 8 AM until 4 PM in order for residents to make it home by 5 PM. Nightly curfew was still in effect although from sundown to sunup. Seth's lease was up and he put everything in storage to deal with later, except the medical equipment which was staying for the next physician, Danielle Stockwell, MD.
On their first day of relative freedom Jessica wanted to get a haircut. She called Loretta for an appointment now that phones were working again and was given one immediately. Seth walked her over but didn't go inside. He needed to find out what food was in stock and prayed the fishermen had gone out. He was craving lobster.
"Jessica, it's so good to see you. You've lost a little weight, haven't you?" Loretta greeted her while finishing up Phyllis Grant's hair.
"I was getting so sick of canned food," agreed Jessica. "You're well?"
"Right as rain, Jessica."
Phyllis looked up at Jessica. "I hear you and Seth Hazlitt were holed up together for months."
"Yes, he was kind enough to keep me from being lonely." Phyllis flushed guiltily and looked at Loretta. "We were going to ask you to stay with us but Ideal only has so much room."
"It all worked out for the best. Seth is a good cook and my stove is gas so we ate pretty well." She turned her head as the door opened and Eve Simpson entered.
"Jessica! You look great!" She kissed her in greeting. "I hear ol' Doc stayed with you. I'm not surprised but he left his daughter to stay with you?"
Jessica smiled. Even in war, gossip was important to these women. "What did you do while at Ideal's? Crochet? Needlepoint?"
The women shook their heads. "We mostly sat around moaning there was no good food to eat. We had some stuff but mostly baked goods so we were getting fat and sluggish," added Phyllis. "I can't get over how good you look, Jessica."
Jessica laughed. "You know Seth. He brought his hand weights and we worked out."
"I'll bet," smirked Eve. "I didn't think the Doc could still pump iron." The innuendo wasn't lost on anyone.
There was snickering but Jessica frowned. She hadn't been around so it must be time to gossip about me, she thought. "Loretta, I'm going to reschedule. There's so much I need to do. I'll call." She turned and left without saying goodbye. The women looked worried. Loretta was upset over the loss of income which was badly needed.
"Eve, you went too far," cautioned Phyllis. "I feel bad that we didn't ask her to stay with us. More than likely she would have declined but we should have and now she's thinking we sat around gossiping about her."
Eve looked worried. Jessica had always been more than nice to her. "She did look offended, didn't she?"
Jessica caught up with Seth on the dock. He looked steamed. "Let's go, Jess," he said as he took hold of her arm. "I have four lobsters in the car for us and two buckets of clams for your famous chowder."
The ride home was silent. Jessica waited until they were in the kitchen to speak.
"What's wrong, Seth?"
"I'm insulted. The men were hanging around laughing at me. Telling me I had it nice being holed up with you and no witnesses."
"It was the same at Loretta's," she said sadly.
"Jess, we don't have anything tying us here anymore. I'm retired. We can live anywhere. I know we've made this our home for a long time but I would love to travel. Not the way you do it, jetting around from here to there at a frenetic pace."
Jessica laughed. "I would love to travel. I have family I need to see. We can go to Australia and visit Marge and her family. I'd like to see Grady and his family as well as my brothers."
"One thing the war taught me is not to take things for granted." Seth pulled her into a hug. "I hear the mail is starting up again and the president said he would subsidize the utility bills. I hope my taxes won't go up."
Jessica smiled cheerfully. "Of course they will. They'll go up and up to pay for the war."
Seth chuckled. "I think my cynicism is rubbing off on you."
"Let's go downstairs and start planning."
It was decided that they would fly to Arizona to see Grady before going to Australia for a month. Grady's in-laws were the same as before, overbearing father-in-law and whiny mother-in-law. Franklin and Maisie Mayberry weren't used to doing without. They complained about the shortages the war brought about then asked how Seth and Jessica were coping.
Seth was tired of hearing him speak so he told him bluntly that things were fine. Jessica had prepared months in advance so they stayed in her basement with everything they needed.
Grady was looking guilty and Donna just looked harried. She hadn't lived with her parents in over fifteen years and they were a handful. Little Frank wasn't so little anymore now that he was officially a teenager but he loved his Aunt Jess and was informed she married Doc Hazlitt. Jaws dropped.
Seth was still laughing over it on the plane to Sydney. There was always some degree of tension between Seth and his daughter so it was no surprise that she wasn't thrilled with the marriage. Although it had been twenty years since her mother died, she felt Seth was trying to replace her memory. They visited for four days before they journeyed on to see Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth. Seth surprised her with five days and nights on the Gold Coast even though it was winter. He told her they deserved a honeymoon.
Jessica surprised him by declining to get a different wedding ring. She liked what hers represented. Two people finding each other, falling in love, weathering all kinds of problems and then the war.
They returned to Cabot Cove at the end of September, tired, exhausted, and ready to officially start the next chapter of their lives.
Tongues were wagging all over town that Dr. Hazlitt was retired and the new doctor was in his house now. Of course, everyone knew he was staying at Jessica's house. Jessica had a brilliant idea for a plot and she spent days researching. While normally she would do it at the library. She didn't feel it necessary to listen to every person that wanted to stop by to chat. No, they had cleared out most of the basement and Seth set it up as an office for her. It had everything she needed, even her bed.
She spent her days in her dungeon, as she called it, and researched on her computer. Seth answered the door but didn't allow anyone inside. Even Mort joked that he would need to see Mrs F at some point to make sure he hadn't killed her. Seth told him to make an appointment. After no one had seen her for two months, only the Doc, Mort had to go by to do a wellness check.
"You need to do what?" asked Seth. He had opened the door and Sheriff Mortzger stood there with a sheepish look on his face.
"Come on, Doc. I just need to see her for a sec and make sure she's okay. Everyone is saying you have her locked in here."
"You could have phoned," mentioned Seth.
"Well, you always answer the phone too. No one has spoken to her."
"Let me tell you something. This town has treated her badly, very badly. During the war no one wanted her. No one invited her to shelter with them. Not one single solitary person. A nearly sixty year old woman was going to spend months, alone in the house, without electricity. Very few people called to check on her, Charlene Sassi, my nurse Beverly, and Mara over at the diner. I'm not including you because you and I spoke and your wife always asked after Jessica."
Seth invited him inside but continued speaking. "She was so hurt, Mort. She didn't really speak about it but she has done so much for this town, even now she was able to have three food drives arranged when even the mayor couldn't. And when we can get out again, do you know what she had to hear? "You and the Doc were alone in your house for months, who was your chaperone?"
Mort turned red. "Well, you're here now and you aren't doing much for her reputation."
"Her reputation doesn't need cleaning. You probably can't keep a secret. No one in this town can but I'd like you to keep this to yourself."
Mort leaned in closer.
"Judge Harper married us during the war, back when things weren't looking too good. No one noticed we have new rings but then thinking the worst of people is what Cabot Cove does best."
"Why not tell everyone?:" asked Mort.
"Our families know. I can't think of another person that needs to know," grumbled Seth.
"I wanted to tell you and Maureen, Mort," said Jessica softly exiting the basement. "You're both working sixteen hour days trying to get the town back in shape."
Mort sighed in relief. Mrs. F looked good, really good. "It's really good to see you. I guess I can't call you Mrs. F anymore."
"I hope you'll call me Jessica," she smiled.
"Alright then, Jessica," he said, trying it out. "I'll keep your secret until it eventually comes out. I won't even tell Maureen."
"Are you going to put an announcement in the paper?" Mort asked.
"Definitely," said Seth, with a gleam in his eye.
True to his word, Mort didn't say anything beyond he saw Mrs. F, she looked fine, and is working on a book. Two weeks later a notice that Dr. Seth Hazlitt and Jessica Fletcher purchased a home in Redlands, Maine was in the newspaper. The coastal town was two hours north and had half as many people as Cabot Cove. The town was in an uproar about their famous celebrity leaving but Seth and Jessica weren't home so there was no one with whom to lodge a complaint.
People were still moaning that Seth had retired. Eve Simpson was upset because she didn't assist in the purchase of their new home so she lost that commission and more importantly, Jessica hadn't listed her old house for sale.
They returned in October, with Grady, his wife, and son. The war had convinced them that they wanted to live in a small town and Grady loved the house he lived in growing up. He exclaimed over the basement and how much he would have loved having it for a hang out. Little Frank, of course, wanted it for his bedroom but his parents vetoed that choice.
They hosted a welcome to the neighborhood/so sad to see you go party, open to anyone that wanted to attend.
Seth took his favorite pieces out of storage and Jessica moved some of her favorite pieces of furniture to their new home and left the rest to Grady so the house was already settled for the party. The time for speeches came and Seth was the first up.
"I just want to say that a year ago we were preparing for war, well Jessica was preparing, the rest of us were just talking about it. We learned valuable lessons. Freedom is too precious to give up, I can still beat Jessica in chess most of the time, and she is the wisest woman I know. Thanks to her we had food, supplies, and could relax and worry about our families instead of ourselves. Despite the gossip we've heard over the years, Jessica and I weren't secret lovers, but war makes you think and one day she and I went over to see Judge Harper and got married." He paused dramatically as the gasps of surprise sounded.
"Of course, it shouldn't come as a surprise that the citizens in town got it wrong and proclaimed we were shacking up and other less savory comments. My wife and I decided life's too short for that nonsense and it was time to go somewhere friendly, to meet people, but we'll visit our friends here and keep in touch as well." Seth looked over at Loretta's gang as he called them.
Maureen went over to Jessica and hugged her. "Mort told me this morning. Doc said he could. Congratulations."
Jessica smiled in return. "We want you to come up for Thanksgiving to see the house."
"Jessica," called Eve. "Don't go. I'm so sorry." She looked pitiful and Jessica wasn't a mean person.
"It's time but we'll be here often to see Grady and we'll be down for Cabot Cove Days in the spring." She gave Eve a hug and that opened the gates for everyone to try to hug a piece of her.
Jessica raised her voice to speak next. "My husband Frank and I had a wonderful life here. We raised Grady here and I can't think of a better place for them to live and raise their son. Now it's time to start a new life with my husband, Seth. Neither of us wanted to leave Maine, the ocean, or small town living. I must say however that I now beat him in chess four times out of five despite what he says but he does cook better than I do." There was laughter as Seth hung his head about his chess proficiency.
Others soon got up to speak, wishing them well, urging them to visit often, and hoping for invitations to see them.
Finally the guests were gone and they collapsed on the couch.
"You forgave them, didn't you?" asked Seth.
"Of course, dear. A long time ago." agreed Jessica. She chuckled softly.
"What?" asked Seth.
"Remember the movie, "It's a Wonderful Life"? I was just thinking, it really is. The good and the bad, the right and the wrong." She gave his hand a squeeze. "I love you, darling."
Seth tried to stop the tears but he was moved. He was living the life he could only dream about for years. He looked up the stairs as Little Frank came bounding down them rapidly before slowing to a nonchalant slouch, as only teenagers can do, when he saw them.
"Come on, son, let me show you how to play chess so you can beat your aunt Jess." Seth and Little Frank moved over to the table where they began setting up the game.
Grady wandered into the room.
"What did Donna's folks say when you told them you were moving?"
Grady smiled. "I told them that Little Frank was growing up and my biggest fear was he would start a family and not want to live anywhere near me. Then they asked where we were moving and I told them Maine. You should have seen their faces." Grady began laughing just thinking about it.
Jessica smiled. Grady could surprise her.
"Aunt Jess, I should have spoken up and stood my ground years ago. I promise you, if you ever need me again, I'll be right by your side."
"Thank you, Grady." She kissed his cheek. "Oh, I have a housewarming gift for you." She got up and went into the hall closet. She handed the large box to Grady.
Like a kid he furiously ripped off the paper. Donna and Little Frank came over to see what was inside.
"A dartboard! I always wanted one and you wouldn't let me!" exclaimed Grady.
"Grady, you were the clumsiest kid in the world! I hope you turn the basement into the game room we wanted to give you." She gave him a hug.
"Jess, it's time to go," said Seth. "It's a two hour drive, you know."
They said their goodbyes and began the drive to Redlands.
"Happy?" he asked.
"Very," she replied. She placed her hand on his thigh. "You know what I want to do on our first night in our new home?"
Seth smiled. "Ayuh."
Epilogue
Seth and Jessica loved their new home. It wasn't too large or small. Seth fished, golfed, and traveled whenever Jessica wanted. Jessica published twice a year, traveled to relax and for inspiration, and fished with Seth. She tried golf and hated it. They visited Cabot Cove several times a year and major holidays. If any good could come from war, they achieved it.