Fran's Secret

by BinBagBrain

Fran has been keeping a secret and has been suffering all alone. Can Max get her to open up to him? *Total soap opera drama! Remember, none of this is real or even necessarily accurate! Have fun with the fantasy! This is a work in progress, so let me know if you want me to keep going!

32. Chapter 32

Max and Fran entered the kitchen with the photo album, all smiles. Brighton looked up and saw them, and blushed a little as they looked over at him. Niles put the lid own on a huge pot that was boiling their seafood dinner on the stove and turned around, then smiled and raised his eyebrows.

"Oh, good! Did you look at it? Did you like it?" Niles asked.

"We love it! Brighton, you did such a good job! You should be really proud! And Niles- you, too! What you wrote was really sweet. I think it's perfect to put in the paper."

"Oh, I'm so happy!" Niles said. "Can we look at it now?"

"Sure!" Fran brought the album to the kitchen table and set it down.

"I want to see!" Gracie squealed. She had changed out of her uniform and was playing with the zen garden again.

"Here, Gracie, come here by me," Maggie said, reaching for her hand. "Niles- come here so you can see, too." Maggie scooted her chair over and Niles dried his hands off, then sat down next to the girls. Brighton watched nervously as they opened the album and read through the announcement.

"Aw, Niles! That's really nice, what you wrote," Gracie said.

"Well, it's true. And Brighton that photo is wonderful! Is that the one you think they should use in the announcement?" Niles and the girls looked over at Brighton. He nodded.

"I like it, too, B. What do you think, Max? Should we have Niles take that one to the newspaper?" Fran asked.

"Possibly. I like it, too. But why don't you all look through the rest and see if you agree. The rest of them are really good, too." The girls smiled, then they looked back at the album. Niles lifted the page and turned it, and they oohed and awed as they looked at each photo.

"You did all of these, Brighton? They're really good," Maggie said.

"Yeah. I had two cameras, and we went pretty fast because it was freezing out there."

"They came out really good! You guys look like models or movie stars or something!" Gracie squealed again, turning around to look at Fran and her father. Fran wrapped her arm around Max's waist.

"Aw! I don't know about that, but he sure did a good job, didn't he? I think he's a natural!" Fran smiled and winked at Brighton, making him squirm nervously a little. Max grinned at him, too.

"Is that one of the cameras you're going to take on saturday?" Maggie asked.

"I'll take one of them, and I want to take a different camera too, the twin lens. I want to see how that does. I got some more film for it at the camera store, so I should have a lot."

"What about the other pictures you took? When we weren't looking? The ones you did last night?" Gracie asked.

"Oh! I forgot about those!" Fran said. Brighton looked at Fran and his father sheepishly.

"Those got developed, too." Everyone turned to look at Brighton. "I'll show you those later. I thought we'd get these dealt with first, and get the announcement ready for Niles to take tomorrow. If you like what he wrote, I can print out another copy, and then get a copy of the picture you want to go with it. And I was gonna ask, if you want more copies or to get any enlargements, then maybe- Niles, if it's not a pain, if you could take the negatives to the camera shop again and get them started, then I can pick them up after school again. And if you guys need frames, if you want me or Niles to find some…"

"Oh, actually that is a good idea. I know Ma is gonna want at least one big one. We'll have to pick out which pictures to give to her. Oh! Then we can give it to her tomorrow when they come for dinner! And one for Yetta!" Fran said, looking up at Max.

"Sure, Brighton, why don't we do that after dinner? We can make up a list for Niles to take in tomorrow morning. Would that be alright?" Max asked Niles.

"Absolutely! Whatever you need!" Niles and the girls went back to looking at the album.

"So, B, how did those other pictures come out? Those were inside, though- did they come out okay?" Fran asked him. Brighton grinned and nodded. "Oh! Now I can't wait to see those, too!" Brighton leaned back in his chair, still smiling.

Niles and the girls finished looking at the album and closed it. Gracie ran over to Fran and hugged her around the waist as Niles got up to go check on the food.

"I really like those pictures! And I'm really happy you guys are getting married! I really am. And I can't wait to see it in the newspaper!" Gracie smiled up at Fran and her father. Fran stroked Gracie's hair back and hugged her.

"I am, too, angel. I'm really happy!" Fran said, then turned to look at Max.

"So am I," he said. "And I'm glad everyone's happy. Oh- I almost forgot- children, Fran and I were talking about maybe planning something for Spring Break. We thought maybe we might be able to plan a trip somewhere, maybe even a trip out West, to the desert. Fran should be fairly recovered by then, but we thought it might be best to not go to a place like the beach, just to make sure she'd be healed enough to enjoy it. And Maggie, some of those travel catalogs you got for Fran might help us find a place to go. So if something like that sounds appealing to you all, then we can start looking into it. And Niles, you're welcome to go, too, if you'd like. We thought a nice, quiet vacation would be nice to do as a family before we get ready for a wedding."

"The desert?" Gracie asked, then turned to look at Maggie and Brighton. "We've never been there!"

"That might be possible. Can we look at the catalogs you have sometime?" Brighton asked.

"Sure! I think they're out in the livingroom still. And come to think of it, Max, we should probably clean up my mess out there before everyone comes over tomorrow. All of the things Maggie got, and those photography books."

"Sure, we can do that."

"Fran? Can I borrow those books? So I can look at them before we go over to the university on saturday, that way I can get some ideas on ways to take pictures."

"Absolutely, B. I was hoping you'd like to look at them. And your father still needs to look at the pictures of London, too."

"Oh, right! Maybe if there's time after dinner, as long as we still get that phone call made," Max said. Fran nodded, and Maggie turned to look at them.

"What phone call? I mean, if it's okay to ask…" Maggie said.

"Sure, it's okay. Brighton talked to Tommy's dad, and we're sort of going to get a second opinion from him, and maybe ask him some questions so we can get ready for the friday appointment."

"Oh." Maggie was quiet for a moment. "Fran?"

"Mmm hmm?"

"Could I maybe go to that appointment too? I mean, if it's okay with you? I know Brighton's doing that thing for school, but I kind of wouldn't mind seeing that side of things. Meeting the doctors, and just seeing what they say. I just- well, it all still seems kind of weird to me. But maybe I could learn something too." Fran was surprised, and looked from Maggie to Max, then back.

"Well, I don't have a problem with that. You won't be missing any classes, will you?"

"No, I shouldn't. I just have one class after lunchtime, but even if I was late for it, it should be okay. I can explain why to the professor if I need to, but I don't think I would need to."

Fran looked back at Max, to see what he thought.

"Well, it's just your parents and Brighton coming with us, right? That makes five of us. Did you hear back from Val if she wanted to go?" Max asked.

"She didn't think she'd be able to, especially if she wanted monday off, too. And Yetta won't be going. So we have another space. It's okay with me if she comes with us." Max nodded.

"Alright, Maggie. As long as it doesn't interfere with your classes, and if it might help you with all of this, too."

"I think it would. I just keep imagining what that place is like, the hospital, and what Fran's been going through there with all that testing. I'd kind of like to see it myself. But- can I ask something else?"

"Sure, sweetheart," Max said.

"On monday- how is all of that gonna be handled? I mean, I have classes, and these guys need to go to school, too. I can help Niles with them in the morning. But I'd really like to come to the hospital after class, too. It's gonna be hard not knowing what's going on."

Max slumped a little as he stood there, then looked from Maggie to Fran, and wrapped his arms around her.

"I know. It'll be hard on all of us when we just have to wait until the surgery is done. But Margaret, I think we might need you back here, to help Niles. Someone has to be here when Brighton and Grace get out of school, and then to get you all fed. And we might not know if they'll allow visitors once they have her settled in a room. I mean, I'm sure I'll be there the whole time, and they should let her parents see her, but beyond that, we can't be certain. And like I was telling Gracie, maybe we just plan for a phone call if Fran is able, or I can call home to update everyone. Hopefully by the next morning, they'll let her come home, and then you all can see her after school. But you know, maybe that's one of the questions you can ask if you come with us on Friday. Just be prepared for the doctors to say no, or that they don't know, either."

Maggie looked disappointed. "Okay," she said.

"Hey, Mags!" Fran said, letting go of Max and going over to her, then putting her hands on Maggie's shoulders. "It's just for a day, okay? Then I'll be home, and we can start going through magazines, alright? I'm gonna miss you guys, too, but it won't be for too long. And who knows, I might be out of it most of the time, and I wouldn't make great company. So if you guys can't come see me, then I need to know you're all doing your part here, okay? Helping around the house, getting your homework done, and getting your things ready for school in the morning. Make sure you help Niles as much as you can, because he might be having a hard time, too." Fran looked over at Niles, who was quietly monitoring their conversation as he tended to the food on the stove.

"Oh, I will be beside myself, I'm sure. But we'll all get through it, and we'll get her home and take care of her, and we'll all watch out for each other, too, alright? It'll be a little different for a while, but it's nothing we can't handle, right?" Niles asked.

"Right!" The children said in unison. Max and Fran smiled at each other.

"Now, on that note, I think all of this is nearly done, if I've followed the instructions correctly. Who can help set the table and get everyone's drinks ready?" Niles asked.

"I can!" Gracie volunteered.

"So can I," Brighton joined in. Maggie slid her chair back and got up.

"Me, too!" She said, then hugged Fran. Niles smiled and covered the big pot again, then went to retrieve a huge serving plate and some utensils so everyone could pick out what they wanted from the feast. As everyone grabbed things to set the table with, Max went to the cabinet to retrieve enough glasses for all of them, then Fran helped him fill them all with ice. Max took out the big pitcher of tea in the fridge and started filling the glasses one by one. Niles heaved the large straining bucket slowly up from the pot, letting the boiling water drain away from the huge amount of shellfish, corn cobs, and potato chunks that had been cooking.

"Oh my goodness, Niles! Let me help you with that!" Max said, rushing around the counter to help him lift the strainer up. "Now what do we do with it?" He asked.

"Oh, ah, I guess I hadn't thought that far. Ah- can we get it to the sink without making a mess all over the floor?"

"Mmm…" Max looked back and forth. "Probably not. We might get a little wet, so hold it away from you. Let's do it in one quick, steady heave, alright? Straight to the sink and set it down inside. Phew, this steam is hot!"

"Oh, you guys! Be careful, would you? We don't need you burning yourselves and having to go to the hospital or anything!" Fran worried. She watched as they heaved the huge bucket from the top of the pot quickly over to the sink, splattering boiling water to the floor between them. Fran clutched her knuckles to her mouth. "Oh! Let me get a towel! Don't move!" She scolded. Max and Niles heaved in relief, then looked at each other and started laughing. Fran grabbed a few thick rags from a bottom cabinet and hurried over to drop them on the floor and mop up the water. Max and Niles kept laughing, and Fran swatted them with a rag. Max reached for her hand and pulled her to him.

"It's alright, darling! We survived." Fran stuck out her bottom lip at them, frustrated at how they didn't seem concerned about how they could have hurt themselves.

"Don't do it that way ever again, you guys! That water could have really burned you!"

"Oh, it's my fault, Ms. Fine! I've never done that before, or used that pot before. I should have planned things out better. But I'm still not quite sure how else it could have been done. Maybe you're just supposed to do it outside, or have a sink right next to your stove…" he scratched his head, then picked up the rags from the floor and put them on the end of the counter.

"Oh, poo, Niles! If we ever have this again, then we have to figure something else out. I don't need a heart attack on top of things!" Max wrapped his arms around her and hugged her trying to settle her down.

"I'm very sorry, Ms. Fine, I'll make certain this never goes this way again. But now, dinner's ready! Everyone, get your hands washed, and I'll get this all on the serving dish. Grab your drinks, and oh- Mr. Sheffield? Can you grab the big bowl of salad in the fridge? And I'll be right in with this."

"Absolutely, Niles. Come on, darling, here- can you take the drinks? I'll get the salad."

"Oh, alright!" She swatted him on the behind playfully, and they all worked their way to the dining room and took their places. Max started passing the salad bowl around, and then Niles appeared through the doorway, huge serving plate loaded with a low-country boil. As he carefully set it down in the middle of the table, everyone's eyes went wide.

"Oh, man!" Brighton exclaimed. "That looks so good!"

They all began filling their plates with everything that would fit, including Niles who sat down to eat with them again. Everyone was smiling and trying out the new meal, and at least for a while, forgot about the heavy weight that had been on their shoulders.

"Niles, I think you outdid yourself this time!" Fran wiped her mouth with her napkin and leaned back in her chair to catch her breath.

"Well, thank you, but it was your fiancé's idea, so you might want to thank him, too!" Niles grinned, from his place at the end of the table.

"Thank you, too, fiancé! This was a great idea!" Fran reached over to squeeze Max's hand.

"Well, you're welcome, darling! Niles, you might have to add this to your repertoire. It turned out really well!" Max said.

"It did! It's all really good, Niles!" Maggie agreed, and Brighton and Gracie chimed in with their approval.

"Oh, well, you're welcome, and thank you all! It did turn out quite well. But next time I make it, I'll have to figure out a better way of getting it all out of the pot without making such a mess!" They all laughed and Max looked over at Fran. She rolled her eyes and laughed. She'd forgiven the both of them for scaring her earlier. Max set his napkin on the table and took Fran's hand again. She looked at him and smiled, and they let their glances linger. Max needed to see that she was doing well, and Fran needed to reassure him that she was doing fine. She stroked the backs of his fingers, and he relaxed.

"So guys, what's the plan for tonight?" Fran asked.

"Well, I want to see those other pictures!" Gracie squealed out and looked at Brighton.

"So do I!" Maggie said, elbowing him.

"I know, I know! I'll bring them down later. And I need you guys to tell me which ones to get enlarged, too. Then, we should probably do that phone call. And I kinda want to do a little work on all that other stuff tonight, too, my project," Brighton said, looking back and forth between Fran and Max.

"Sure," Fran said. "And yes, Brighton, we'll figure out what pictures we want enlargements of, but not till after we see those other ones! We might want some of those, too!"

Brighton smiled. "Yeah, you might."

"Aw! Well heck, are we all done here? Why don't you go get them now, and we can help clean all this up."

"Did anyone have room for dessert?" Niles asked, as they began to get up from their chairs. "We still have some cheesecake in there."

"I'll explode if I eat any more right now, Niles," Maggie said.

"Yeah, me too. But maybe later?" Gracie asked.

"Alright, then. Let's all let the meal settle a bit, then let me know if I can get you anything."

"Thank you, Niles," Max said, as he got up and helped Fran. The children helped pick up everyone's plates, and Fran and Max grabbed the glasses, while Niles sorted out the large serving dish. It still had a good amount of food left on it, even though they had all eaten quite a bit. The girls helped load dishes into the dishwasher with Fran, while Niles and Max got out storage containers to put all the leftovers in. Brighton ran up the back stairs to go retrieve the other bundle of photos that had been developed. When he came back down the stairs and waved the envelope of photos, everyone cheered and headed out towards the livingroom, and Fran grabbed the photo album from the kitchen table to take with her.

"Fran and dad get to look at them first, you guys!" Brighton scolded the girls, as they tried to rush through to be the first to the livingroom.

"Everyone will get to see them, let's all settle down!" Max cautioned, but lightheartedly. Gracie took Fran's hand as they came into the livingroom.

"Can we sit with you guys to look at them?" Gracie asked.

"Sure. But I might want to add them to this album, too, so we need to make sure we don't get fingerprints all over them," Fran said, squeezing her hand. Gracie and Fran sat down on the couch on one end, with Max and Maggie sitting on the other half. Fran set the album in her lap, then Brighton presented her with the envelope.

"I hope you like these, too," Brighton said.

"Aw, B, I'm sure we will! You guys ready?"

"Yeah! Let's see!" Maggie exclaimed. Max wrapped his arm around Fran and Gracie clutched her arm, anxious to see. Fran opened the envelope and pulled out the inner envelope containing the prints. She opened it and pulled out the stack of photos. Brighton watched as they all smiled, and Fran carefully flipped through the triple copies of each picture.

"Aw! Look at that one! Brighton, these are really good!" Fran looked up at him. "You didn't even use the flash!"

"Yeah, I was worried they might not come out, but I guess we had enough light, and I didn't shake the camera."

"Brighton, these are really good. We'll have to make sure we've always got film for those cameras so you can take more," Max said to him. Brighton nodded, a little embarrassed. Niles waited patiently for his turn to see the pictures, but it was driving him crazy.

"Oh, look Fran! There's the ones of us!" Gracie pointed. Fran patted her hand as she clutched Fran's arm again.

"I like those, too!" They continued looking through the pictures, smiling and chuckling, until they got near the end of the stack. Then they saw the ones Brighton took from Max's office. Fran smiled and looked at Max, and he grinned, too.

"Brighton, you sneak!" Max said, and Brighton laughed. Maggie and Grace looked at the picture, then at each other, smiling from ear to ear. Fran flipped to the next one, and they all chuckled again.

"You're really good at the candid ones, B. I'm impressed! But now we'll be looking out for you and your camera at every turn!" Fran said. Brighton smiled. He was glad that they really liked what he had done. They got to the end of the photos, with the one of Max and Fran on the couch from behind. The way they were looking at each other in the photo revealed how much they really felt for each other.

"I like that one, too. Actually, I really like all of them. Do you want to add all of those to the album, too?" Max asked Fran.

"Yeah, I do. I think this album's really special, and it's capturing a really important time for us. Yeah, I want to put these in there, too."

"Can I have a copy of one of the ones of us, Fran?" Gracie asked.

"Sure, baby. But we should get a frame for it, don't you think?"

"I can get one tomorrow, if you want. When I get some for the enlargements," Brighton offered.

"Okay!" Gracie beamed.

"Do you need more money, Brighton? I need to get you paid for all of this, too. Do you want me to write you a check, or put some into your bank account?" Max asked.

"Oh, well, um, can you just write me a check? Is that easier for you? I can go by the bank sometime to deposit it."

"Sure, I can do that. Just make sure you've got enough to cover things before you leave for school tomorrow, alright? Niles, we can give him some cash out of that petty cash if there's enough there."

"Oh, yes sir, absolutely. I'll make sure he has enough to cover things before they leave in the morning," Niles said.

"Thank you," Max said. Fran put the photos back into their envelopes and then looked up at Niles.

"Your turn, Niles!" She handed him the envelope and he took it, then he rushed to one of the chairs, sat down, and began carefully looking through them.

"Fran, can I ask you something? You can say no, I mean it's not all that important, but I was just thinking that maybe, before you have your surgery…" Maggie looked uncertain.

"What is it, sweetie? Fran turned to her.

"Well, I mean, I know you might want to take it easy, and you've been tired and all, but I just thought that maybe, if you were feeling okay, and if dad doesn't mind- I don't have class tomorrow afternoon, so I was kind of thinking- if you might want to- that maybe we could go to that jewelry store you and daddy went to. I'd really like to go see it, but I want to go with you. And once you have your surgery, we don't really know how long that might take for you to recover and be ready to do stuff like that again." They all got quiet, and looked back and forth between Maggie and Fran and Max.

"Tomorrow afternoon?" Fran asked. Maggie nodded. Fran looked at Max to see if she could read his thoughts about the idea. She could see a little concern in his eyes. "What do you think?" She asked him.

"Well, I don't know. Do you want to go?"

"I'd like to go with her, I think it would be nice to have some time with her, some time with everyone before monday. But I'm sure you have some concerns, so talk to me." She reached for his hand and set it on the album that was still on her lap. She stroked his fingers.

"I do have some worries. If the two of you went out, and you had a bout of fatigue, or didn't feel well. I know it's not all that far away, but would you walk, or what? How long would you be there?" Fran looked over at Maggie.

"Is an hour enough? You've been there already, so you can show me the things you think I might want to see. Would it be okay if we took the car, and then that way if there's any issue, the driver can come get us and bring us back right away. And there should still be enough time for him to go get Gracie from school, and then Morty and Sylvia and Yetta for dinner. Would that be okay?"

"I'd be good with that, Max. If I'm feeling good after lunch, maybe we can go then? And we won't stay more than an hour." Fran looked up at Max and he looked down at her hands, looked at her rings on her finger, then looked over at Maggie.

"I guess I could deal with that. As long as you're feeling good. And yes, I think you should take the car. And the cell phone, too. And after the driver brings you back, he can head over to get Gracie, then to Queens to get the others and bring them here. But just know that I might be wringing my hands until you get back here."

"Aw, Max! It'll be okay. We won't be running around or anything. The driver will just drop us off, and we'll have fun looking around, and then he'll bring us back. And I promise I'll stay off my feet after that, okay? And we'll have a nice dinner with everyone."

"I know, I just worry." He squeezed her hands and looked over at Maggie. "Just promise me you'll keep an eye on her, and no overdoing it, alright? You can always go back to that place another time. But I know how much you two would enjoy going there together. So as long as you're feeling well, and you bring those pills with you just in case, I suppose I'd be okay with it."

"Oh, thank you daddy! I'll watch out for her, I promise! And we'll call for the driver right away if we need to, and get her back here quick if anything happens, okay? I promise!" Maggie hugged Max around the neck to thank him.

"Oh, you guys!" Brighton said suddenly. "We need to make that phone call, before it gets too late. You want to do it now? I can go call over there and see if he's ready."

"Oh, yeah, shoot! I almost forgot!" Fran said. She patted Max's leg and reached over to set the photo album on the coffee table. Niles got up and set the envelope of photos on top of it.

"I can go get the other negatives while you're on the phone, too, and start writing down which ones to get done tomorrow," Brighton said.

"Oh, alright. You don't want to be in there when we're on the phone with him?" Max asked.

"Well, I, uh, I thought maybe you guys should do that privately. But if there was anything you need to tell me about, you know, for my project, then you can tell me after. But I think that's a bit like meeting privately with a doctor, so I don't think it would be right for me to be there. But I can call first, then hand the phone to you guys. Are you gonna do the talking, dad?" Max looked at Fran as they both got up off the couch.

"Ah, yes, why don't we do it that way. I'll get a notepad to write on, so we can keep track of things, and Fran can write any other questions she wants to ask."

"Okay. Oh! Dad! You have that little tape recorder, don't you? The handheld one? Would that help? I mean, I don't know if you want the phone on speaker or not, but maybe? Unless you put the tape recorder by the earpiece? And you know what? Maybe we should bring that on friday, too! For the meeting. It might be hard to remember everything they say or who asks what. And it might be too much to write down."

"You know what, Max, that's a really good idea. Do you still have it?" Fran asked.

"Yes, yes I do! And a pack of tapes! But we need to check the batteries. Let's go do that now. And we need to tell him we're recording it, too, just to keep track of what we talk about. Okay, let's go do that now. Girls- will you be fine out here, or do you have some work you could do while we're on the phone?"

"Sure, I have some. Gracie, why don't you come to my room with me, and you can go over your review sheets and get that out of the way," Maggie said, reaching for Gracie's hand.

"Okay. Yeah, I guess I can do that. But I want to see you later, Fran, okay? So we can read together. Okay?"

"Absolutely, angel!" Gracie smiled at her and headed up the stairs with Maggie, and Brighton, Max, and Fran headed for the office.

"Do you need any water or anything?" Niles asked.

"Um, no, I'm fine. Fran?"

"I'm good, Niles. But definitely some when we head up to get ready for bed."

"Alright. I'll be in the kitchen, cleaning up, if you need me."

"Thank you, Niles," Max said. They went into the office and Max shut the door behind them. He went over to his desk and sat down in the chair, then pulled open a couple of drawers before he found the mini tape recorder and blank tapes. He pulled it out and took out a blank tape and put it in, then did a test recording to see how the batteries were. They were dead. He popped them out of the back and found some new ones, then put those in and tried it again. It worked perfectly.

"Okay, great!" Brighton said. "Now, are you gonna want to put it on speaker? You should have enough privacy down here, since everybody else left. You can just set that tape recorder here by the speaker, and it should pick up everything okay."

"Yes, why don't we try it that way. That will make it easier to write things down if we need to. Here, let me get a notepad out… and some pens…" he pulled a drawer open and got a legal pad and two ball point pens, and handed one to Fran. They all stood at the end of the desk near the phone, looking at each other.

"Well, um, okay! I guess I'll call?" Brighton asked.

"Sure, yes," Max said. He glanced at Fran and then he picked up the tape recorder and pressed the buttons to record, then set it down next to the phone. Brighton picked up the receiver and dialed Tommy's number.

"Hey Tommy, it's me. Is your dad there? Just wanted to see if he was ready to do this, we're ready on this end if he isn't busy." He listened for a moment. "Okay," he put his hand over the mouthpiece, "He's getting him. He said he should be ready. Think about what you want to ask first." Fran clutched Max's hand and looked up at him.

"Can you think of some questions?" She whispered. "My mind just went blank."

"That's alright, darling. I think I can think of some. Then you can write down or whisper some to me and I'll ask him." Fran nodded.

"Hi," Brighton said into the phone. "Yes, it's Brighton. Um, my dad will be the one talking to you, okay? But they're both here, and they can write stuff down, but is it alright with you if they put the phone on speaker and record the conversation on a tape recorder? You know, just in case there's a lot of information and it's too much to write down. It is? Oh, cool, okay. So I'll hand the phone over to them, and I'll get out of here so you can talk privately. And thank you again for doing this, I know it really helps a lot. Okay. Thank you. Well, here, let me hand you over to my dad, and I'll probably talk to you after this weekend. I have a lot of work to do, but if I have a question I can let Tommy know. Okay, great. Well, here's my dad-" Brighton handed the receiver to Max and then he waved to them and hurried out of the office, shutting the door behind him. Max pressed the speaker button and set the receiver down.

"Hello, Maxwell Sheffield here. We really appreciate you doing this, I know you're busy yourself, so we'll try not to take too much of your time."

"Oh, it's no problem. I know you're all in a bit of a pinch, and things must be pretty chaotic and stressed for you all, too. I know Brighton is worried, so I'm glad he decided to go ahead with this project of his."

"So are we, he's really impressed us lately. Well, um, shall we get to it then?"

"Sure. Let's start with your most pressing concerns- is there anything the other doctors said that maybe you feel you haven't gotten enough information on, or anything you think you need to ask them about on that next appointment?"

Max thought a moment, glancing at Fran. "Well, I'm sure Brighton's shared the imaging reports and all of that with you. The tumor may be rapidly growing, so do you have any thoughts on the type of surgery they will be doing? Is that the typical way to handle this? And as fast as it may be growing, by the time she has the surgery, it will be three weeks of growth since they discovered it. Is there a chance they may have to make changes to what they plan to do when the day of surgery comes?" Max pulled the desk chair over to the phone and sat down, and motioned for Fran to sit on his lap. She wrapped her arm over his shoulders, and they both waited for the answer.

"Well, from what I've read and what Brighton has told me, I do feel they are making the right kind of plan. Minimally invasive surgical removal would be the ideal solution. And yes, removal as soon as possible. Something you may want to ask them about if they don't bring it up themselves, is if they may do more ultrasounds prior to surgery. I expect that they would, so they can mark the incision and decide on the size they need to make it, and also know what to expect as to how far in the abdominal cavity they may need to go to access it." Fran scribbled on the notepad quickly and Max read it.

"Oh- do you know if they would be making a vertical incision, or a horizontal one?" Max asked.

"Well, they may discuss that with you. I would lean towards horizontal, if they are trying to minimize the appearance of the scar- you know, so it's easily covered by undergarments, that sort of thing. But if for any reason they need to do a vertical incision, then you need to be prepared for that, and be sure to ask why." Max nodded and nibbled his thumbnail. Fran patted his shoulder and he looked at her, then she pointed to her throat, then into her mouth, and Max understood and nodded.

"Oh, ah- she will be intubated, correct? Are there risks from them doing that, or how will that affect her after the surgery?"

"Oh, yes, well there are minimal risks to that. But since this isn't an emergency surgery, like if it were someone who was rushed to the emergency room and needed a breathing tube right away, there shouldn't be any rough handling of things. They'll have time to get the tube inserted properly. But yes, there can still be risks. There can be minor injuries to the throat from the tube itself, sometimes the teeth may be knocked a bit, and they also have to make sure the tongue is out of the way. But those risks are slight. Now, after she has the tube removed and is in recovery, you may want to make sure she doesn't try to talk right away. Let her have some time to really wake up and get some sips of water. And if she's having any kind of sore throat, then don't try to make her talk. Let her give it all a rest for a while and let the inflammation settle a bit, let her sip water for a while. Oh, and they should do this anyway, but just be prepared to ask them if for some reason they don't - make sure she has a straw to drink with, because she'll be laid back and won't be able to sit up, and they likely won't let her sit up right away. Make sure she has something to write with in case she needs to communicate that way."

"Oh, okay, that's a good idea, I hadn't thought of that," Max said. "Ah, I know you aren't an oncologist, but have you ever had to deal with that before? I mean, like a tumor removal, and then getting it to the lab. And I know they have to be very careful about the tumor, not rupturing it or letting any tumor cells get into the abdomen."

"Yes, yes I have. And I know you're working with a G.I. surgeon, and though I haven't met him before, I do know that he's very well respected and has a great reputation, so I think you're in good hands there. And yes, they will be taking a lot of measures so the tumor isn't compromised. That's probably the highest concern, especially since they won't know what type of tumor it is until it gets to the lab. So don't expect a quick surgery, there may be a number of factors that can interfere, and they won't know that until they're in the midst of everything. But they will give you a rough idea of how long it will take, especially if they get new imaging before they start." Max paused and looked at Fran. Her mood seemed to have drifted.

"May I ask, if you were going through this- like with a family member or friend, how concerned would you be that it could turn out to be cancer?" Max asked, and Fran squeezed his shoulder. He stroked her knee as they waited through the long pause.

"Well, of course I would be very concerned. That's the most difficult part next to the surgery itself, the uncertainties. There's only so much you can do to prepare for that, but as long as you know that it is one of the possibilities, and don't try to fool yourselves that it couldn't happen, just also remind yourselves that there will be a team of people there for you, ready to help you deal with all of that as well. Focus on the things you can control right now- getting ready for the stay in the hospital, spending time with everyone, in case you need to ease their tension a bit. And also getting things ready for the recovery afterwards, so she can be as comfortable as possible but not feel like she might be shut away from everything." Max gulped, and gave Fran's knee a squeeze. She scribbled on the notepad, recovery?

"With her recovery, how long will that take? And would any possible complications add to that time?" Max asked.

"Well, if everything goes well and there aren't any complications, expect that the first two weeks would be the most difficult, especially that first week. But then you should see significant changes after that in how much better she should feel as her body realizes it doesn't have to fight anything off anymore, and her incisions heal. I understand she's had quite a bit of symptoms to endure with fatigue and fevers, that sort of thing?"

"Yes, and it seems to be progressing. So it would be really wonderful if all of that would go away."

"And it should, but give it a little time. Like I said, that first week or so will be the biggest part of recovery. Even if she's feeling much better, it's important to take things easy and let her body have time to heal, and get the nutrition she needs, and rest. It can be hard to sit still if you've been sick for so long and suddenly you feel so much better, but she needs to do that. And about that time she should be having a followup done, and they can decide on the next steps and how much activity she'll be allowed to do. Short walks should be alright by then, and moving around the house. Do you know if there will be anything like stairs around that she might have to navigate?"

"Oh, yes. There are stairs. Should she not be on them at all?"

"Ideally, no. But this being New York, it's almost unavoidable. Will she have to navigate them to get to where she'll be recovering?"

"Yes. Just up one floor."

"Well, be sure to bring that up with the doctors. They may have you work with someone to show her how best to get around, even for getting up from a seated position, and being careful to not do too much. But I would expect that if she's to get herself up the stairs, then to favor the left leg and let it do all the work, so there isn't any pulling on the incisions on that right side. Let the left leg take all of the steps up the stairs."

"Oh, alright, I see. That makes sense. And we were planning to have something like a walker for her, to help her get up and sit down, and possibly even a wheelchair for the times she may need it."

"Yeah, that's a good idea. Be prepared for things like that, even if she ends up not needing them much. And the first few days at least, they may have her on painkillers and antibiotics. The painkillers may affect her a little, so she should stay off her feet most of the time, and just get up for short periods of time, always with someone there to help her."

"Alright. Yes, we'll make sure there's always someone with her. And I hadn't thought about her having more medication as well. We've got a few more things to speak with the doctors about."

"Yes, and definitely have a list to go over with the doctors. And make sure everyone takes some time for themselves, to try to relax and not dwell on things. Monday will be here before you know it, and she'll be past the surgery, and you'll have a lot more answers then."

"Yes, we will. And thank you very much for your time, it's been very helpful," Max said, somberly.

"Well you're very welcome. I know I can't give you answers, it's all still speculative at this point, but I hope everyone can feel a little bit more certain that she's in good hands and they're doing the right things to help her get healthy again."

"Yes, it sounds like they are. And I think everyone will be about as prepared for the pre-surgery meeting as possible."

"Good, that's good. Were there any other questions you had for me?" Max looked up at Fran and they both thought for a moment. She shook her head.

"Ah, I don't think so. I can't think of any others. Well, we should let you go. You've been a lot of help, thank you very much. And thank you for helping Brighton so much, too. And for suggesting this project to him. I really think he'll be learning a lot, and will be helping everyone else a lot, too." Max patted Fran's leg and she rubbed his shoulders.

"I'm glad to do what I can. And when Brighton asked me about the software, well, we had a good conversation, and I could see how concerned he was. A bit like he was scrambling for answers, like he desperately needed to do something- to be of use. So I just thought if he could get more out of all of this than just obsessing over medical images, then maybe it might help him feel better, too."

"I think it has, to a degree. I'm sure after the surgery, once we have the answers, then he'll be able to focus more on the research and maybe a little less on the emotional side of things. At least I hope so."

"Yes, I understand. Maybe Tommy can get him out for a while to go to the arcade or someplace, take his mind off things for a little while. Well, I'll get going now. I hope things go well at the consultation. And just be sure to take it easy for a while if you need to."

"Alright. Well, thank you again. And I'm sure Brighton will be talking to you next week. Have a nice rest of your evening. Thank you."

"You're welcome. Good luck! Goodbye."

"Goodbye." Max pressed the button on the phone to hang up, then leaned back in the chair and looked up at Fran. She rested her forehead against his and he wrapped his arms around her.

"How are you doing?" He asked Fran.

"Hmm…" she mumbled. "Okay, I guess. How about you?"

"I think I'm alright. I think that was helpful, talking to him. He brought up some things I hadn't thought of."

"Yeah. Oh! I guess you can shut off the tape now." Max reached for the tape recorder and stopped it, then put his hand on her thigh. "You sure you're okay?" She asked.

"Yes, I'm fine. I… I guess I'm still processing some things. About the surgery. And afterwards."

"Yeah." They were quiet for a while, as he stroked the side of her thigh. "I don't think I really thought about how long the surgery might take. I was pretty sure it wouldn't be a quick thing, like my tonsils, but still. That worries me a little. If I have to be under for a long time."

"Yeah." He wrapped his arms around her tightly and hugged her, then they looked into each other's eyes. She caressed his cheek and kissed him. "We'll get through it. We'll take good care of you, sweetheart."

"I know. And I can't tell you how much better that makes me feel. It really does. If I didn't have you guys- I just- I don't even want to imagine how hard it would be. No offense to my parents, but- you know."

"Yeah," Max smiled and squeezed her.

"Do you think maybe after the appointment, well- maybe after we get Brighton back to school, do you think maybe we could go out for lunch? Take my parents out, and Maggie if she wants to go, and just- I don't know, process everything? I don't know that I'm gonna want to just go home and sit around after that. Maybe we can talk about things a little."

"Sure, whatever you want. As long as you're feeling alright. And if your parents don't mind. It might be good to have a bit of a talk after that appointment."

"Yeah. You ready to get out of here? And go tell Brighton which pictures to get enlargements of?" Max grinned at her.

"Yes! Let's go do that! We need some pictures of us around here. Lots of them!"

"Okay, Brighton, get all those things to Niles, and he can get you that petty cash to cover everything when you go to pick it up." They were upstairs in Brighton's room, having just gone through the photos and picked out which ones they wanted to enlarge. "Oh- and one last thing…" Max reached into his pocket and then handed something to Brighton. Brighton took it and unfolded it. It was the check as payment for his photography. He was shocked.

"Dad! Oh my god, dad! You don't have to pay me that much!" Brighton looked over at him, his mouth hanging open.

"Well, how much do you think a New York photographer makes to shoot on-location portraits and candid shots?" Max asked, with a smile.

"Uh, wuh-" he stuttered, not knowing what to say. Fran put her arm over his shoulders and patted his arm.

"You did good, kid! Real good! Now go, get that stuff to Niles so he can get it ready to take to the paper in the morning." Brighton nodded and hurried from his room to find Niles. Fran reached for Max and wrapped her arms around his waist. "That really was sweet of you to pay him that generously, Max. I think you knocked his socks off!"

"Well he kind of knocked our socks off with those photos, didn't he? I mean really- I don't think a professional could do that good of a job in hours in what Brighton did in a matter of minutes. And if it's something he might like to do, then I think we should encourage him. Just like with this medical project… And it's not just encouraging Brighton. We need to watch for things to encourage the girls with, too."

"True. You know, I always thought it was kind of easy to encourage the girls, but they're still young. The real world hasn't come down on them yet as far as careers and work goes. It still seems like they're exploring all of their options. But Brighton does seem like he may have really locked onto these things really hard. We'll have to see how far he takes them. I've never seen him focus this much on anything before. Except maybe Baywatch. But that doesn't really count." Max laughed and squeezed her close and gave her a kiss.

"You want to go see what the girls are up to? You know, before we head to bed…" his eyes twinkled at her and one corner of his mouth curled up slightly in a half-grin. She ran her hands up and down his back and went in for another kiss.

"Yeah. I know Gracie wants to read with me tonight, so I should probably see if she's ready." They headed to Maggie's room to see if the girls were still together. As they approached, they could hear the soft sound of Maggie's radio playing alternative music. Fran knocked on the door.

"Come in!" Maggie called. Fran opened the door and peeked in, and Gracie jumped off the end of Maggie's bed and ran to her.

"Hi Fran! I'm done with my review sheets. And I know all the stuff! Can we still read together tonight?"

"Of course, angel, we can read together. Do you want to read in our pajamas, or regular clothes?"

"Pajamas! Always pajamas, Fran!" Fran smiled and stroked Gracie's hair.

"Okay then. Do you want to go get ready for bed, and I'll go get changed, too. And if it's still early when we finish, you don't have to go to bed right away, okay? You can keep reading until your regular bedtime."

"Okay! Let me grab my review sheets and I'll go get ready!" Gracie grabbed her papers from off of Maggie's bed, then ran back to grab Fran's arm. "'Night Maggie! See you in the morning!" She waved and hurried out of the room.

"Goodnight, Gracie!" Maggie called after her. Maggie got off the bed and came over to Fran to hug her. "Everything go okay with that call?" She asked, carefully.

"Yeah, I think so. He seems to think we're doing the right thing- that the doctors are doing the right things. And he brought up some stuff we hadn't thought of. So I think we'll be ready for that appointment friday," Fran reassured her. Max nodded in agreement, but stayed quiet.

"That's good. Well, I think after the appointment, I'm gonna hit all the bookstores and newsstands I can find and get all the bridal and fashion magazines they have. I'll make a nice, huge stack for you to go through when you come back from the hospital!"

"Aw, thank you, Mags! But please don't miss class on account of me."

"I won't. I only have the one class, but it's right after lunch. So I can grab lunch, go to class, and then walk it off with some shopping. So if you think of anything else you want me to look for, just let me know before we leave on friday, okay?"

"Alright, thank you. So, are you good for tonight? I'm not sure if we'll catch you all at breakfast tomorrow. I might want to sleep in, just to make sure I don't get tired tomorrow like I did today. I don't want to miss our trip to the jewelry store!" Fran grinned and grabbed Maggie's hand.

"Oh my gosh! I know! I can't wait! But yeah, I'm good here. Just a little more work to do for class tomorrow morning."

"Okay, well I better go get changed before Gracie comes looking for me."

"Okay, goodnight, Fran."

"Goodnight, Mags."

"Oh, daddy, can you hang on a second?" Maggie asked. Fran looked back, and Max looked over at her.

"Ah, sure, sweetheart." He looked back at Fran, as if to get her okay.

"Okay, I'll leave you two alone, and I'll go get ready for bed, and see what Gracie has picked out to read tonight! I'll see you in a bit, sweetie!" She said to Max, and patted his belly before hurrying out of Maggie's room. Max turned back to Maggie, unsure of why she wanted him to stay. Maggie stepped over and shut the bedroom door again. She pulled him over to her bed and motioned for him to sit down.

"So, daddy, was that call really okay?"

"Yes, darling, don't worry yourself about that. We mostly just wanted to see if he thought her doctors were making the right decisions, if he thought the surgery was the best thing, and all that. He was very helpful."

"That's good. I just wanted to make sure, because you kind of look a little worried again. Did that therapy session go alright? Is that why you look that way? I mean, if you want to tell me. You don't have to tell me what you talked about." Max got quiet and looked away a moment.

"It's perfectly alright for you to ask, Margaret. I'm glad we went, I think it helped us see how much we were doing right, and to not focus on what we thought other people might think. You know- because it's all happening rather fast. Not just her health issues, but, you know, our relationship. We had to sort of explain all that to the therapist."

"Yeah, I get it. But it's not like you guys just met. You know each other like best friends. You just stopped with all that other nonsense and finally realized how much you mean to each other." Maggie looked straight into her father's eyes. He nodded.

"That's for sure. But it wasn't just that. We both did sort of need to go into what happened before we met each other. I didn't ask Fran what she talked about, but I can imagine."

"What did you talk about?" Max looked at her, then glanced away, then looked back.

"I, ah, I felt I needed to explain what happened with your mother. So the therapist knew why all this with Fran was probably bringing out a lot of old hurt again. You know, it was hard to open up to Fran. I knew I had feelings for her a long time ago, but I guess I had to really make sure. And I do have regrets that I didn't do something about it much sooner, but Niles even sort of lectured me about how maybe us getting together now was the perfect time. And we are together. And I know for a fact I want to be with her from now on. That's why I proposed to her. I can't waste any more time." Maggie smiled and leaned over and hugged him.

"We're all really glad you guys are together, too. And don't take our teasing too seriously- about how it took you forever to make a move. I think both of you guys had a lot you needed to learn first, so you really would take each other seriously. And when it came down to it, you were there for her when she needed you most. She knows she can rely on you." Max gulped and looked away. He wasn't expecting to have this conversation with his daughter.

"I'm still worried, though. I'll keep worrying until we get the answers we need- if it's cancer or not. But I also don't want to dwell on that. I don't want her to see me worrying all the time."

"But daddy! Don't hide it, either! We all worry. Things come up that remind us of how serious this all is, and it's hard not to let it show. But we can still laugh and have fun with her, too. And this isn't forever. She'll have the surgery, and we'll get the answers, and then we move on to the next step, okay? We'll get her home, and get her recovery going. And then we can start making plans for the future, okay?" She tugged at his sleeve, trying to reassure him.

"Yes, that we will. And you know- I was worried about her going out with you tomorrow, to the jewelry store. I guess it's probably that separation anxiety kicking in. And I know I shouldn't smother her or try to keep her all to myself. So as long as she's feeling good, I do think that maybe some time with you like that will be really good for her. She did really like that store, and I think it kept her mind off of things. Anything we can do to boost her mood is good, right?"

"Yeah, daddy. And we won't be gone too long. And that new chair should be getting here while we're gone, right? You can have that all set up for her before we get back, and more stuff will be ready for her recovery. It's one step closer to getting her better." Max smiled and nodded.

"And thank you, Margaret, for everything you're doing to help. And for everything you'll do in the future. It really does matter, and we're both grateful for it. None of us could have planned for any of this, but it makes me feel so good to see everyone pull together to help her. It really does. I love you all so much, and I love Fran, and seeing how much you all love her too, well, I'm just really grateful. I really am."

"Aw, daddy! Don't make me start crying now!" They both got up from the bed and hugged each other tightly.

"Well, I should let you get back to your work. Don't stay up too late, alright? If we don't get down there for breakfast, we might not be able to help you get the others off to school on time. Niles might be leaving before any of you do- he's really quite anxious to get that announcement in to the newspaper on time."

"Oh yeah. Don't worry, I'll be down there the usual time. I'll help Niles and make sure they eat and get out of here on time."

"Thank you." Max started heading for the bedroom door.

"Oh yeah, daddy-?"

Max turned around. "Yes?"

"What are you guys gonna do for Valentines Day?" Max stopped in his tracks.

"Oh! Oh my gosh, that's next week, isn't it? Oh dear, I thought I had more time!"

"Daddy, it's okay! I can help you if you need me to. I know you can't take her out on a date or anything, but maybe we can set something up here. Just let me or Niles know, okay? We can do whatever you need us to?"

"Oh, alright. Alright. Okay. I've got to think about that. Dammit, though, I can't believe I hadn't realized how close that is. Thank you for saying something. Ah, I'll let you know, okay? I need to think a bit."

"Okay. And daddy? One more thing…"

"What's that?"

"Relax!" She smiled at him, and he took a deep breath and exhaled. She was right. He nodded and smiled at her.

"Thank you, Margaret. I'll try. Have a good night."

"You, too." Max opened the door and left her room, and shut the door behind him. He gave a small chuckle and shook his head. He couldn't believe how wonderful those kids were!

Max entered the bedroom just as Fran came out of the bathroom in her pajamas. She smiled at him and reached her arms out, and they met for a hug in front of the bench by the bed.

"You have a good talk with your daughter?" Fran asked, looking up at him.

"I did. She's a remarkable young woman."

"Yeah, she is. Those kids are pretty great." They hugged again, and Fran rubbed his back. "You gonna be okay in here while I'm with Gracie?"

"Sure. I'll miss you, but then it'll be really good when you come back in here!"

"Oh yeah? You gonna show me a good time?" She cracked a smile.

"I'm sure going to try." He grazed her nose, then kissed her. "And along those lines… Margaret reminded me about Valentines Day being next week. I'd gotten so caught up in things that I hadn't realized it was so close. But I'd like to schedule some time with you for that, if possible. Maggie said she would help, and I'm sure Niles would, too. Whatever you're up for- we can have nice meal up here or something, watch a romantic movie. Whatever."

"Oh, crap. I forgot, too. Awww…" she moaned. Max lifted her chin with his finger and kissed her again.

"It'll be okay, sweetheart. Maybe we can do a raincheck, and when you're better I'll do something to sweep you off your feet."

"Aw, Max, you already do that! But yeah, I know. I'll want time with you then. We'll figure something out." She rubbed her hands up and down his back and rested her head against his chest.

"Could you do something for me- before you go see Gracie?"

"Sure! What do you need?"

"Could you check your temperature first? That would help me a lot." Fran gave him the side-eye, then smiled.

"Yeah. I can do that. That way when I come back, nothing will be in the way of me jumping on you and kissing you for hours and hours!" Max grinned and clutched her sides.

"Yes, that would be very nice. But after lots of kissing, I'm taking over. I want to attend to every inch of you tonight." Fran closed her eyes and leaned into him, and clutched his shirt in her fists.

"Mmmm! Okay, okay! I'll get the thermometer. But if my temperature is up, it's just because of you, and what you do to me…"

Max chuckled, and Fran let go of him to get the thermometer from the bathroom counter. He turned and headed into the closet to find some pajamas, then began to get undressed. Fran came out of the bathroom with the thermometer sticking out of her mouth and went to the bench to get her fluffy bathrobe. She picked it up and put it on, then slowly tied the belt and sat down on the bench. Max came out a short time later in his pajamas and walked over and sat next to her. He put an arm around her waist and leaned over to kiss her shoulder.

"Fire tonight?" He asked. Fran raised her hand up and pinched her fingers together. "Little one?" She nodded. "Alright. I'll get that going, and get the bed ready for when you get back. I see Niles brought us water, too. So when you come back, All I want you to think about is relaxing, alright? I want to take care of you tonight. I want to make you feel good. Really good." Fran leaned against him and closed her eyes as she let out a muffled, frustrated moan. She looked up at him and wrapped her arm over his shoulders, then rested her forehead against him. He took her hand and kissed it, then reached up for the thermometer. He turned it in his fingers, then smiled. "It's normal, darling! That makes me feel very good."

"Oh good! Me too! You know, it's gonna be really hard to concentrate on reading with Gracie when you put all those ideas in my head. So please let me put my hands all over you for a while when I get back, then I promise I'll let you… do whatever… after that…" Max grinned and looked into her eyes, then they kissed softly.

"Mmmm… alright. You want me to put on a little more cologne, too?"

"Yes, please! I'm gonna inhale you! Oh! I gotta go, she's probably getting aggravated that I'm not there yet. I don't exactly know how long I'll be, sweetie, but I'm all yours when I get back. Try to watch a show or movie or something, okay?"

"Alright, darling. Don't worry. I'll be here when you get back. Thinking about what parts of you I'll attend to first…" He teased. Fran pushed at him.

"You suck, you know?!" She grinned, getting up from the bench.

"You want me to do that first?" The smile was spreading across his face.

"Oh, stop it Max! You're killing me! Now don't say another word, or I'll have some explaining to do to Gracie about why I look so flustered!" Max laughed and squeezed her hand, and she hurried away from him to the door and opened it, then turned back to look at him. She smiled as she looked him over, then took a deep breath and sighed. "I'll be back as quick as I can, fiancé!" She waved her hand lightly, then stepped away and closed the door behind her. Max chuckled, then got up from the bench and went to turn on the fireplace, adjusted it down low, then took the thermometer with him to the bathroom to finish getting ready for bed.

"I wish we could read together all day, Fran," Gracie said, as she tucked the bookmark into her book, then hugged Fran's arm.

"Aw, sweetie! That would be nice, but don't you think we'd lose our voices? We'd get all hoarse, and then we might start sounding like Yetta!" They both giggled, then wrapped their arms around each other for a hug. Gracie held on longer and tighter than Fran. Fran stroked her hair back, then turned her face towards hers. "You okay, Gracie?"

Gracie looked at Fran a moment. "I don't know. I don't want you to be sick anymore, Fran. And I wish you didn't have to have surgery, either. I don't like all of this." Fran hugged her close again.

"I know, baby. I know. It's just something that happened, and we have to deal with it. It won't be forever. But I have some good doctors, and we caught it in time. They're gonna do what needs to be done, right? So I can get better, and have more time with you. I'm not planning on going anywhere, baby. I'm right where I need to be, with all of you guys. That's all I ever wanted. And I'm so glad I have you, because it would be way too hard to handle all of this if I didn't. But I don't want you getting yourself scared, okay? If you need to talk to somebody, we'll try to get you in to the therapist, or maybe even if you need to talk to your counselor at school, if you have a hard time getting through the day. Or even like now- we can have some time like this, and cuddle and talk. We're all gonna take care of each other, okay? Everybody's trying to do their best, but it can get hard sometimes. So we'll take care of each other when it gets hard, okay?" Gracie nodded, but wouldn't say anything. Fran kissed her forehead and rubbed her shoulder. "Hey- you know who else needs some help through all this?" Gracie looked up at her. "Your daddy does."

"Daddy? He's been sad, hasn't he?"

"Yeah. He tries not to be, but he can't help it."

"Because he loves you. We all do."

"And I love you all, too. But you know, he had to go through something like this before. So he gets scared, too. But you know what else?"

"What?"

"I really think everything's gonna be okay. They have to do the surgery, they can't wait on that. But after that, I do feel like everything will be okay. And then we can be a family. And that'll be good, won't it?"

"Yeah! It will!"

"So how about tomorrow you try to spend a little time with your father, give him some hugs, and make him feel better. Maybe after school? Would you do that for me?"

"Yeah! I'll do that. I'll help take care of daddy, and you." Gracie hugged her tight again.

"Aw, baby! And I'll take care of you, too. And your daddy! We're gonna be okay, we will!" Fran hugged her and rubbed her back, then started to get up from the bed. "Now you can read for a little while longer if you want, alright?"

"Okay. But Fran?"

"Yeah, sweetie?"

"After- after the surgery, when you're back home. But when you feel better- can we still read together?"

"Sure, Gracie! We can do that. It might not be at bedtime, but we can find some time to do that. I'd really like that."

"Me too. Because you do the best voices!"

"Aw!" Fran leaned over and hugged her again. "I love you, sweetie! Now don't stay up late, and get some good sleep tonight, so you can kick some butt on those tests, okay?"

"Okay, Fran. I will!"

"And if I don't see you before you go to school, have a good day, and you can always ask to talk with the counselor there if you need to. And when you come home, see if you can spend some time with your father, okay? Give him lots of hugs and kisses."

"I will, Fran! Goodnight!"

"Goodnight! I love you!"

"I love you, too!" Fran waved at her, then stepped out of her room and shut the door behind her. She smiled as she walked down the hallway, back towards the master bedroom. When she got to the door, she lightly knocked on it, then opened the door and peeked in. "It's just me!" Fran said, peering over at Max, who was lying on the bed, shirtless, partly under the covers, and watching a program on the TV.

"Hello there!" He said. He reached for the remote and turned off the TV, then set it down on the beside table.

"You didn't start without me, did you?" She asked, raising an eyebrow at his shirtless physique.

"Oh, no. I just took it off because the fire was a little warm over here. You want me to put it back on?" He grinned.

"Absolutely not!" Fran locked the door behind her and shut off the overhead light. She took off her robe and tossed it to the bench, then climbed onto the bed and crawled toward Max, then over him. She straddled him, then sat down on his lap and looked him over. He looked up at her, and ran his hands across her thighs.

"You have a nice time with Grace?"

"I did. She's such a sweetie! Oh, and when she gets home from school tomorrow, you should spend some time with her, okay?"

"Is she alright?"

"I just think you both could use some time with each other. She might like to take care of her daddy for a little bit." Max looked at her, curious.

"Alright. I'll spend some time with her." He looked Fran over. She was wearing another cute cropped cotton shirt, and knee-length pajama pants with little cats all over them. He stroked her legs with his fingers.

"Can I join you under the covers?" She asked.

"Absolutely." She moved off of his lap and he lifted the covers for her to get under, and then she kissed her way up his bare torso to his lips, then rested down on top of him. She kissed him deeply, not even trying to tease him at all. He clutched her sides, then slid his hands around her waist.

"Mmmm… Max! You smell so good! And you feel so good! I just wanna kiss you a whole bunch for a while, okay?"

"Please do! I've missed you. Just do what you want to… what you need to… and then I want to cover your body in kisses… I just want to work on all of you…"

"Ohhh that sounds wonderful!" Fran pulled herself up over his face, and rested on her forearms, then slowly dragged her lips across his and kissed him deeply, sharing her tongue as he gave her his. "Mmm… you shaved again, didn't you?" She kissed her way across his cheek.

"Mmm hmm."

Fran kissed his neck, then his throat, driving him crazy. She loved his smooth skin, and he smelled so good. The combination of his aftershave and cologne was like a sensory overload- it consumed all of her. She was so turned on by him, it was hard for her to contain herself. She kissed him on the lips again, and pressed her body against his.

"Darling…" he whispered. "I'm supposed to be the one attending to you, making you feel good. You're turning me on, you know?" Fran lifted her head up to look at him.

"I can't help myself, Max! I'm crazy about you! You're gorgeous, and you smell so good… and you feel so good!" She nuzzled into his neck again. He slid his hands up into the back of her shirt and let his fingers glide over her skin. She moaned softly, then kissed his lips again and again. "Mmm, I sure love messing around with my boyfriend!" She grinned. He smiled back.

"Well, you better not let your fiancé find out!" He said. Fran laughed. She gave him soft little kisses all over his lips.

"My boyfriend and my fiancé! I like the sound of that. My boyfriend is my fiancé! Mmm, Max! I love you so much… you're everything to me. Do you realize that?"

"Oh, Fran… that means so much to hear you say that! You're everything to me, too! I love you, my darling. So much!" Max carefully rolled Fran over on the bed and rested on top of her. She wrapped her arms around his neck and he kissed her, slowly, gently. She wrapped her legs around him, and their lips parted. Max looked into her eyes. "Sweetheart? Will you let me make you feel good? Is it alright if I- if I take care of you… kiss you all over… explore…"

"Yes! Yes, Max… I want you to… but I'm sure I'm gonna want to explore you, too!" She caressed his face, and his eyes smiled at her. He kissed her lips for a while, letting his hand wander up and down her side. He moved to her cheeks, and her neck, kissing her again and again, letting his tongue trace back and forth across her skin. She held her breath, and clenched his hips between her thighs. His hands made their way up her shirt as his lips worked their way down her body. She writhed in pleasure, and it was all she could do to hold back from him. But she knew he wanted this time, even needed this time, to take care of her, to attend to her. She knew he wanted her to feel good for a change, to feel as good as he could make her feel.

He pushed her shirt up and kissed her belly. He ran his fingertips across her skin. The light from the fireplace flickered across her body. He moved further down, then reached for her waistband. He glanced up at her, to see if she was okay with what he wanted to do. Her head was turned to the side, her eyes closed, and she was smiling. He gently tugged at her pants, sliding the waistband down over her, then he pulled her pajama pants down her legs until they were off. He tossed them to the end of the bed, then looked back over her. She wore a pair of black underwear, with lace around the edges, high on her hips. He traced along the lace, watching his finger as it slid across her abdomen. He kissed her skin and caressed her, looking over her body- looking at the spot that would soon have a scar. He kissed her there several times, then clutched her lower back and pulled her pelvis to him, and kissed her belly. She sighed and moved her legs slightly, and Max moved further down her body. He kissed one thigh, then the other, and ran his hands over her.

"Max…" Fran whispered. He looked up at her, and she sat up on the bed. She pulled him up to her and kissed him, and he rested his hand on her bare hip. She wrapped her arms over his shoulders as they kissed, then ran her fingers through his hair. He kissed her deeply, and moved his hand up her side, and into her shirt. He grazed the side of her breast, and she sucked in her breath, then took hold of his bottom lip between hers. She clutched his face and kissed him hard, and he ran the backs of his fingers over her breast across her nipple. Fran gasped, then whispered to him. "You can take it off…"

"Mmm… darling…" He kissed her several more times, then looked over her body, then up into her eyes. He sat next to her and reached for the bottom of her shirt with both hands, and as he pulled it up over her, she raised her arms for him to take it all the way off. He mindlessly tossed the shirt aside as he looked at her, then gently rested her back down on the bed. The fireplace flickered across her, and Max was mesmerized. He ran a hand up her belly, then grazed her breasts, and kissed her. He crawled over her and rested on top of her, and she slid her hands up his back and clutched him.

"I love you, baby…" she whispered.

"I love you, too." He kissed her several times, then worked his way down her neck and throat until he was at her chest. Fran eagerly anticipated his touch, and when he gently took her breast in his hand, she let out a soft moan. She couldn't help but grab his shoulders as he attended to her breasts, enjoying the feel of his fingertips and lips, and then his tongue. She arched her back as he took her in between his lips. He was driving her wild.

Max gasped as he worked down over her stomach and abdomen, while keeping a hand at her breasts. Fran clutched the sheets. She was loving every second of his loving attention. When he got to her thighs, he kissed them lovingly, and ran his hands up and down her body. Fran smiled and sighed.

"Darling?" He asked softly.

"Mmm?"

"Would it be all right to ask you to roll over?" Fran opened her eyes and looked down at him, then raised her eyebrow. "There's a whole other side I haven't attended to yet…" he kissed her thigh as he looked up at her. She smiled, then obliged, and rolled over onto her stomach, wondering what wonderful things he might do to her next.

Max looked across her bare back, then down over the rest of her body. He ran his fingertips slowly over her shoulders, then down her spine, traced around the lace of her underwear, then massaged down her thighs and calves. She sighed audibly, and Max smiled. He leaned over and kissed her shoulder- again and again. He moved her hair aside and kissed the back of her neck, tickling her. As he moved across to her other shoulder, he ran his hand down her back, over her ribs, around her side, then down to her hip. He massaged the back of her hip as he let his lips work their way down. Fran's skin was covered in goosebumps - not from cold, but from the wonderful feel of his lips pressing against her, and the way he grazed his fingers over her, then massaged the tension from her muscles. She felt so relaxed, but so turned on as well. She felt Max work his way to her thighs again, and she felt that shiver run up the back of her neck. His hands massaged the muscles in her thighs as his lips kissed her lower back. She felt his fingers work down to her calves, then her ankles, and then work their way back up. He paused a moment, then let his thumbs move up her buttocks and into her underwear. He moved them back and forth, massaging her. He was getting himself worked up, too.

"Fran?" He whispered.

"Mmm hmm?"

"Can I take them off?"

Fran smiled. "Mmm hmm." She almost held her breath as she felt him slide his fingers into her waistband, then slowly pull her underwear down, bit by bit, until finally removing them over her feet.

Her naked body lay there in front of him. In a way, he almost felt overwhelmed, but in another way- it felt perfect. She was his. And he was hers. He was madly in love with her, and he needed her, desperately. He leaned over and grasped her hip, then kissed her back, over and over. He moved over her and let his lips work their way up her body, back to her shoulders, and caressed the sides of her body. He kissed her cheek, then guided her to roll back over, and let his hand caress her hip, her belly, her breast, as his lips found hers again. She reached for his face and kissed him deeply.

"Max… take yours off, too… I want to see you… I want to feel you…" he looked into her eyes, grazed her nose with his. "I love you, Max. I want to be with you, tonight…" She ran her hands down his chest, his ribs, down to his waist, then slid her hands into his underwear to his buttocks. He caught his breath, then kissed her lips.

"Mmmm… I love you so much, Fran! I really do! I want to be with you, too," he whispered, then kissed her again. He rolled over next to her, then removed his pajama bottoms and underwear, and reached over to the side table and pulled open the drawer. He grabbed a condom from the box, then tore the wrapper off of it. Fran sat up on the bed and crawled over Max, straddling his lap.

"Can I?" She asked, quietly. He nodded and let her take the condom from him, and he sat up to face her. She caressed his face and kissed his lips, then put the condom on him. The touch of her hands almost made him flinch, but she was careful, gentle. He watched her as she looked down over his body, as she caressed him, arousing him even more. He reached for her breast and kissed her neck.

"Fran… if anything bothers you at all, please say something, alright? Anything at all, and we need to stop, and please let me know. Promise me you will?"

"I will, I promise. We'll be careful. I'll help you, Max. Let's take it slow… nice and easy… I love you, baby… more than anything…" she kissed him passionately, and reached down for him, to guide him. He gasped and reached for her breasts, then kissed his way down her neck, and brought a breast to his lips. She moaned and shifted her position on him, then gently guided him into her. He gasped and rested his head against her chest. Fran wrapped her arms around his shoulders and held him close. He turned his face up to her again and she kissed him. "Ohhh, Max! Mmmm…" she moaned softly.

"Fran… you feel so good…" Fran lifted herself up slightly, then began to move against him. Max clutched her breast and kissed her throat, then her lips.

They took it slowly, getting used to the feel of each other, learning what each other liked. Fran didn't want to take control of all of the lovemaking, but she did want to make sure nothing felt like it might be uncomfortable or cause any pain. It didn't at all- it felt incredible. But she had to remind herself to take it easy, even when she wanted to go crazy with him. She slowed down and clutched his face in both hands, and kissed him all over his cheeks.

"Baby… I want you to take over… I want you on top of me now…"

"Yes, alright… are you feeling alright?" He clutched her hip and held her to him.

"I'm good… so good! You feel so good, Max! I want you to take over!" She guided Max to lay back, and she stretched out on top of him, then he gently rolled her over and laid on top of her. She wrapped her legs around him, and grasped his buttocks, pulling him to her. He rested on his forearms as he kissed her, then slowly, gently, began to move his hips back and forth, back and forth. Fran moaned and he gasped for breath, trying to take it slow, but desperately wanting to move faster.

"Oh, god… Fran… mmmm…" he gasped against her lips.

"Oh, Max! That feels good! That feels so good!" She ran her hands up his sides, then his chest as they kissed. She arched her back and raised her hips, and Max reached a hand down to clutch her thigh. "Oh… god…"

"Fran… I'm going to… oh! I'm about to…"

"So am I! Don't stop! Oh, god, don't stop!"

Max continued, trying not to be rough with her. He glanced down at their bodies, and Fran did too. Max stifled a moan, then Fran clutched his buttocks and pulled him tightly against her, again and again.

"Oh god!" She held him to her as she climaxed, and the feel of her made him climax, too. He pressed his lips against her shoulder, trying not to cry out.

"Ohhh!" He gasped. They were locked tightly against each other for a little while, then slowly came down and began to relax, and Max collapsed on top of her. Fran wrapped her arms around his shoulders, comforting him.

"I love you, baby! I love you so much! You feel so good, baby! So good!" Fran said, hugging him tightly. Max kissed her neck as he recovered, and propped himself back on his forearms, and kissed his way to her lips.

"I love you, my darling! God, I love you!" They kissed passionately, letting their tongues intertwine, and took in each other's breath. As they slowly separated, Max gave her little kisses all around her lips, across her cheeks, then to her neck. "Mmmm… my love… are you feeling alright?" He asked, as he looked into her eyes.

"I feel wonderful, baby! Everything was wonderful. You were wonderful!" She whispered. "Mmm… and you still feel so good… I could stay like this for ages…"

"Mmm, that would be nice…" he kissed her neck, and her jaw, and her lips, then grazed his nose against hers and looked into her eyes. He could see the flicker of the fire in the fireplace dancing over them, and noticed that her eyes seemed to have tears in them. Happy tears. And then he realized his eyes did, too. He smiled at her, and she smiled back. "I love you, sweetheart," he whispered. "I really do."

"I love you, Max. You're the best thing that ever happened to me!" She hugged him tight again and they kissed for a while longer. Max shifted lower on top of her to remove himself, then rested down against her chest. He took a deep breath, then exhaled, and slid his arms up alongside her body, holding her tightly. She stroked his hair and closed her eyes, then quietly paid attention to her body, to see if anything felt out of sorts in her abdomen. Everything felt fine. She felt wonderful.

Max lifted his head and kissed her softly in the middle of her chest several times. He moved off of her to the side of the bed so he could remove the condom and drop it in the wastebasket, then he crawled back over to her. He wrapped an arm over her body and she wrapped her arm around his neck and they gazed into each other's eyes.

"Everything okay? Are you feeling okay?" He asked.

"I feel wonderful. You make me feel wonderful, baby. Nothing bothered me at all." She caressed his face and smiled. "Can you turn off the fireplace? I want to hold my fiancé."

"Sure, darling!" Max reached over and shut off the fireplace with the remote, then pulled the covers up over them. He curled up with her and she held him tightly to her, almost comforting him as if he were a young child. She kissed his forehead and ran her fingers through his hair as he rested his head on her shoulder. He ran his hand up and down the side of her body, and let it finally come to rest on her belly. He was wonderfully exhausted, and felt so relieved that she hadn't suffered any pain or discomfort. She seemed perfectly fine, and happy, and they had both managed to make each other feel really good. He pressed his lips against her skin and softly stroked her belly with his thumb.

Fran held Max close, and felt the rise and fall of his breathing against her. It settled her down, and made her feel extremely content. They had actually consummated their relationship, and it was wonderful! She had noticed the watery look in his eyes as he smiled at her, and it melted her heart. She had been trying her hardest not to let herself cry. She worried he would see it and think she might be crying for some other reason. But now, as she held him close, and breathed in his cologne and his aftershave, and as she felt him relax against her, she felt such bliss. She loved him so much, and she could finally show him. And she knew with absolute certainty how much he loved her, too. She felt a tear trickle down the side of her face and into his hair, and she didn't try to stop it. She let them come. She reached for the sheet and pulled it over his shoulders, then wrapped her arms back around him. She felt him kiss her skin, then settle again, and after a short while, she was certain he had fallen asleep. It made her feel so good, knowing he could relax with her enough to be able to fall asleep so soundly. It meant he wasn't worrying about her so much, he was letting himself just feel the love and the comfort between them. She loved how he clutched at her, at how he let her take the dominant role and hold him tightly against her.

She remembered back over their lovemaking and smiled, and let herself listen to his soft breathing and feel the rise and fall of his chest against her. It was so peaceful. Soon, she fell asleep with him, and they stayed together like that, holding each other tightly, the rest of the night.