Learning to Trust

By Jules Matthews

Part 16 (Conclusion)

The television droned on in the background, but neither woman was watching it. Their minds were focused on other things. After a while, the taller of the two lifted her head off the arm of the couch.

"I should head home, J, before I fall asleep."

JJ focused her eyes on the sad looking woman, who was draped along the length of the other sofa. "You're more than welcome to stay." Jace shook her head. "No, but thank you for the offer. And, thank you for entertaining me. I'm sorry I wasn't much company…I miss her."

"I understand. I miss Cory, too, but if we're to carry out your graduation surprise we had to get Taryn out of the way."

"I'm sorry, I feel really selfish. You don't get to see Cory this weekend because of me."

"Hey, don't beat your self up. I wouldn't have been able to switch from being on-call so I couldn't really take her away."

"I know. It sucks sometimes to have responsibilities. At least Taryn got to use those vouchers I bought her for Christmas. Although when I got them, I had hoped in my heart that I would be the one with her. When I suggested she use them and take Cory away with her, she jumped at the chance. I thought I'd at least have to cajole her into going without me, but I was wrong. I guess…well…things haven't been the same since Florida." She shrugged dejectedly at JJ.

JJ sat up straighter, unsure whether to pry into her friend's love life. After being elected to be the technician on call over the long weekend, she had willingly agreed to help Jace out with her plans to surprise Taryn. However, it was the first time she had been parted from Cory in almost a year and she was missing the comfort of her girlfriend's presence. "In what way?"

Jace scratched her head, "It's hard to say really. I just feel that there's something going on inside her head and she's not telling me everything." "I wouldn't read too much into it. From what Cory's told me, Taryn's had a lot on her mind with schoolwork. I know Cory got all worked up about next year's comprehensive exams when she heard what Taryn's were like." "I know…I just hoped we'd be able to get away for a weekend and really have a chance to talk about things. I've had so much work to do with orientation testing just around the corner that we haven't really had a chance to talk. I really toyed with the idea of going away with her rather than performing the surprise. But I think it's time she moved on and completely buried the past."

"I know. I still can't believe that May is just a few weeks away. Things will be okay, Jace. In a month Taryn will graduate and one stress will be lifted from her life." She could still see the downcast look on Jace's usually perky facial features. "And don't feel bad for me; Taryn's actually doing me a huge favor taking Cory away. She's been a little down recently. I think she's suffering from a little homesickness and I know she misses her family. I'm being as supportive as I can be, but I do feel like a shit sometimes because I'm the person that has pulled her away from her family."

"Are you planning a trip out there?"

"I hope so. I'm not sure we can afford to take a trip this summer with the prices of flights, but maybe in November or for Christmas."

"Well, if you need Cory to take some extra time off just let me know and I'll work something out. I'll be working your ass hard this weekend and it would be my way of saying thank you." Jace stood up and stretched her tall frame enjoying the feeling of cramped muscles being released. "So, are we all set for tomorrow?"

"I think so. All the gear is in the truck. I'll meet you at Jane's for breakfast. Are you sure about this?"

"Yeah. Jane and I talked about it and we think it needs to be done, and the sooner, the better." She saw the raised eyebrow.

"Trust me, I'm a doctor!"

JJ shook her head and laughed at the words. "Sometimes those words scare me! Drive safe, my friend, and I'll catch up with you tomorrow."

***

Jace rapped on the patio doors before entering, "Good morning." She glanced around the unusually quiet kitchen. "No kids?"

"Nope. Bill's parents volunteered to look after the rascals for the whole weekend. With all the building supplies and paint lying around, we felt it was safer if they weren't here. You look tired, are you okay?"

Jace snagged a piece of toast off a plate and took a seat opposite her friend. "I'm okay. I'm having a few problems sleeping." She saw the look of concern on Jane's face. "It's no big deal!" She could feel brown eyes practically boring into her skull. "Stop staring at me like that you're making me nervous."

Jane smiled smugly, "I told you it was addictive. I remember not so long ago that someone was having worries about sharing a bed with another person. Look at you now, three months later and you can't sleep without her!"

Jace rolled her eyes to the ceiling. She couldn't deny Jane's statement because it was true. She missed Taryn, especially her presence at night. Since returning from Florida, they hadn't spent a night apart.

"Have you heard from them?" Jace chewed on her food, nodding in response until she could swallow the large piece of toast. After taking a gulp of coffee, she replied in more detail. "They called the apartment last night once they reached the hotel. The cell phones don't work that high up in the mountains."

"How's the snow?"

"Non-existent! However, according to Taryn, the hiking trails are pretty decent and they're going to try one of those today."

"Does she have any idea what you've planned here?"

"No. Well, I don't think so. We have talked briefly about the future, but whenever I mention the annex she changes the subject."

Jane sipped her coffee, trying to decide whether to ask the questions that were on her mind. "I know. When you said you had a favor to ask, I just assumed it was going to be about helping Taryn move into your place. I never thought you'd be asking to remodel and decorate the annex. However, by doing this, aren't you lessening the chances of Taryn moving in with you?"

Jace hesitated slightly before answering, "Maybe…but Taryn and I living together doesn't have to be at my place."

"You'd live here?"

"If Taryn wanted me to, I would."

"But, what about your place?"

The director buttered some more toast and tried not to look into the eyes that reminded her so much of her lover's. "I'd rent it out. There's a need out there for rentals and I'd always have it as an investment. I thought about selling, but house prices are still rising and I'd never get anything like it again."

Jane's brow furrowed. "I don't understand. You'd give up a three bedroom, spacious ranch house to move into a two bedroom cramped annex. Why?"

The director didn't hesitate with her answer. "For Taryn." She saw the quizzical look on her colleague's face and knew she needed to expand her answer. "Taryn's moved around for so much of her life. I think she needs the security of her family at the moment. Although she doesn't talk about Patrick, I know she's hurting inside and whatever was said between your father and her is haunting her. She won't talk about it and I haven't pushed. I think she needs to be here and maybe deal with a few more of those ghosts she has floating around in her head. She doesn't need to worry about whether she's going to be homeless if we don't work out. In a few weeks, she's going to have to look for a new job and start a whole new chapter of her life. I want to be here supporting her, not making her choose options she doesn't want because it'll make me happier. Does that make sense?"

Jane nodded in agreement, "It's a very selfless choice, Jace. I hope she appreciates what you give her." "I hope so, too!" Jace scrunched up her lips. She still hadn't gotten used to the heart-to-heart chats that Jane liked to put her through. It was becoming easier to say how she felt, however, there were so many things she still wanted to say, but the words never came out right. "But, this is all theory. Taryn hasn't said anything about wanting to take our relationship to the next level and I'm not going to push the issue."

Jace turned her head toward the door when she heard the voices of her co-conspirators, "I'd say our relaxation time is over. Let the building begin."

***

The annex had been developed years ago as an additional part of the main house. It consisted of two moderately sized bedrooms, a bathroom, living room and small kitchen area. While Taryn had been in class and studying for her exams, Jace and Jane had spent a few evenings emptying out Patrick's belongings. They had donated most of the furniture to Goodwill. Jace knew that if it was to be a new start for Taryn, she needed no memories of her late father's presence in the rooms.

The plans for the annex were simple enough. Patrick had always used the front door to the main house as his entrance. However, Jace had wanted Taryn to be able to come and go, as she liked. Bill had suggested knocking a hole in one of the outer walls and adding a door and a small deck area. This would give Taryn a little privacy and an additional space where she could entertain guests if she wanted too. Bill's building expertise helped immensely and the newly designed deck section that would host this entrance to the building didn't take too long to erect.

While JJ and Bill set about constructing the front door and screwing in the boards of the deck, Jane and Jace began painting the master bedroom. Jace felt she had a good idea of what Taryn would like after making the blonde watch many episodes of 'Trading Spaces' and 'While You Were Out' television shows. Cory had joined the conspiracy by suggesting Taryn watch the British show 'Changing Rooms'. They would all watch the shows and then discuss what they liked and disliked. Jace knew that Taryn liked deep colors, especially blues and greens. She and Jane had picked those colors for the bathroom and spare room. Jace had wanted a more seductive and subtle color for the bedroom and had chosen a mixture of cranberry and buff paints. They had found a bed set that matched the colors perfectly. Jace had ordered a bureau and bedside table custom painted to match.

By the end of the first day, four sweaty, grimy people were drinking cold beers on the new deck.

"It looks phenomenal, guys!" Jace exclaimed as she surveyed the small deck area and sturdy steps leading down to the driveway.

"We try!" Bill answered modestly. "So, you like it?"

"It's awesome! She's not going to recognize the place when she comes home."

"That's the idea!" JJ butted in. "The bedroom looks great, too. You have a definite eye for color, Jace. You missed your calling as an interior designer."

"I wish I could take all the credit, but Jane helped me to make the final choice. She's known Taryn a lot longer than I have. I think together we make an incredible duo. So, do you think we'll have all this finished by Monday?"

Bill glanced at the list in front of him, checking off items as he went down it. "It's going to be touch and go, but we should be okay. JJ and I will collect the furniture tomorrow. If you and Jane keep painting the way you did today that job should be completed by tomorrow evening. Which will leave Monday for us to put all the stuff together."

"I appreciate this, guys. When I first thought about doing this, I never realized how supportive you would be, financially and physically."

Jane rubbed Jace's arm, "She's our family, too. To be honest, we had hounded Patrick on and off to get this place remodeled. He never wanted to and spent most of his money either down at the bar or on the horses. You never know, in the future this could be a potential home for one of our kids or yours!"

Jace couldn't stop the look of shock that adorned her face when she heard the last comment. She had never considered herself a parent and began to wonder if it was a thought that Taryn might have entertained. "Well, I'm going to give the trim one last coat of paint before I head to bed. Even though my arms are killing me! Are you sure you won't stay the night, J?"

JJ tried to stifle the yawn that had automatically begun when she had heard the word 'bed' mentioned. "No. I thought about it, but the furniture store is nearer the apartment and I'll be home for when Cory calls. Don't work too hard, okay?"

***

A few hundred miles away from the frenzied activities, two tired women were propped up in bed together. The day's hike had been a strenuous one and neither woman had the energy to do much else, except sip the hot chocolate that room service had delivered.

"It's a shame the others weren't able to take Monday off work."

"I know. J would have loved the hike today. We keep promising to get away, but something always comes up. Thanks for asking me to come."

Taryn turned slightly to look at her bed companion, "You're welcome. I knew Jace was going to work this weekend as she'd mentioned it a few weeks ago. I think it's her penance for taking that week off to go to Florida with us. I didn't want to add any extra pressure to her, so when she suggested I ask you to accompany me I didn't argue."

Cory stifled the smile and tried to look concerned. If only you knew what your girl really has planned for you! "How's your Gram doing? You haven't said much about what happened in Florida." Cory had been stepping around the subject all day. During their hike, any personal conversation had been based mainly on Cory's family and troubles. Whenever, the topic of Florida had been mentioned, Taryn had quickly changed the subject.

"She's doing better. Gramps said they might come up and spend some time with us during graduation week. Jane and Jace are going to be busy preparing for orientation, but I'm sure I can take a little time off to drive them around."

"I bet she appreciated you staying a few extra days after the funeral." Cory tried to make the question sound light-hearted, when in all honesty she was worried about her friend's silence over the whole topic.

"Someone had to. The funeral was a hard day for both of my grandparents." Her heart sank when she remembered her grandfather's face as he stood beside the coffin. The look of anger could have easily been dismissed as grief, but Taryn had known better and it hurt to know that she had been the one who had turned her grandfather's heart to shame. She shook herself out of her thoughts. "Jane couldn't keep the kids out of school or take any time off work. I didn't have anything too pressing and wanted to be there for them."

Cory picked at the edge of the bedspread. "Did you get to see Patrick?"

Taryn dropped her head to her chest and ran her fingernails lightly over her scalp. She knew she was avoiding the question.

The other blonde picked up on the delaying action and placed her mug on the bedside table. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to pry. You've just been so different since you came back. I put it down to the exams, but even though they are over, you haven't been the same."

Taryn chewed on her fingernails as she listened to her friend stumble over her apology. "Has it been that obvious?"

"A little."

"In what way?" Taryn rolled over and looked at Cory's face. The green eyes seemed to flick everywhere, but they never landed on her. "You can tell me, Cory. I know I've been a bitch to live with recently, even Jace has taken to spending more time away from me."

Cory knew the latter wasn't true. She knew the reason for Jace's time away from the other woman. All the same, she wanted to check that things were okay between her boss and best friend. "You two are okay, aren't you?"

Taryn smiled when Cory finally looked at her. "Things are fine. I really am okay, Cory. But, I wasn't for a while after Patrick's death." She finally admitted.

"Do you want to talk about it?"

"Yes and no. Does that make sense?"

"I guess. Have you talked to Jace about things?"

"Not really." She saw Cory's eyes narrow. "I thought I could handle it on my own. She's been so good and always seems to be helping me through one crisis or another. When I think about it, I'm not even sure why I'm feeling what I'm feeling."

"Well, I'm not going anywhere tonight and you look troubled. Why don't you practice on me? See what I think of your troubles. Jace seems to be a very astute woman and I'm sure she's worried about you, Taryn." Wracking her brains to try and get a way for the older woman to open up more, she struck on an idea. "Did you ever play truth or dare as a teenager?"

Taryn cringed, "Yes! I had to suck face with this real geek as a dare." She raised an eyebrow to Cory. "Now you have me worried. I can see scheming going on behind those eyes!"

"Hey, I was just going to suggest we play a truth game. Rather than me pump you for answers, we could take turns and discuss our troubles together. Truth and dare without the dare section or we could put the dare section back in and I'm sure I could find some hotel geek for you to kiss!"

Taryn grinned at her friend, "Okay, I'm game if you are, but we have the option to pass on a question if it's too difficult to answer."

"Deal. So, do you want to go first?"

"Sure." Taryn thought for a few minutes. The opportunity to ask her friend any question in the world and she was stumped on what to ask first. "Do you have any regrets about coming to America?"

"No. Well none in regards to JJ. I do regret the fact that Sam and I no longer talk, but that might have happened had I remained in England. I miss not being able to see my new niece and spend time bonding with her. It's hard to talk to JJ about it because she feels guilty about me being here. I see the relationship you have with Josie and Taylor and I wonder if I'll ever have that with Kristen."

"You will. Plus, you said that you and JJ might end up in England after your degree. Look at Tom and I; he's slowly beginning to trust me more and more. You miss home a lot, don't you?"

Cory nodded her head and swallowed against the lump in her throat. "A lot." She took a few moments to compose herself. "Okay, my turn to ask you a question." She had been debating whether or not to ask Taryn about her trip to Florida. However, she decided to go for it, as it was the reason why they were playing the game in the first place. "What happened in Florida?"

"With Patrick?"

"With whatever happened to make you lose your sparkle."

"My sparkle?"

"You know, the energy that surrounds you. Usually, you're so upbeat and full of life, especially since you hooked up with Jace. But, ever since Florida, you've been different and very quiet. What happened?"

"Patrick died." Taryn answered flatly.

Cory scrunched up her face and shook her head. "I know that, bonehead. But, you couldn't stand him. So, why does his dying make you act like a different person?"

Taryn wriggled around under the covers. She wished she had an answer to the question. Come on; explain to her why you've been acting like a jerk! Tell her why the mere mention of Patrick's name sends shivers down your spine and makes you want to cry like a baby. "For years, I've always thought of myself and Patrick as separate from anyone else. When Mom died, I just thought of Patrick and my problems as being associated with just us. I learned a lot from my grandfather while I was there and I can see how things are all joined. My pain was his pain and vice versa. I was so angry when I saw Patrick in Florida that I vented my anger and didn't think of the consequences. Because of my actions, an old man buried a stranger rather than a son. My grandfather's last words to his son were those of anger and I was the cause of the anger."

Cory really didn't know what Taryn was saying, but she got the overall gist of the conversation. "What happened?"

"A secret that should have died with my mother was heard by my Gramps and it changed how he felt about Patrick."

"And you blame yourself?"

"Wouldn't you?"

"Not necessarily, it depends on whether the secret was the truth or not. Everyone deserves to know what someone else is really like. Your grandfather had the opportunity to tell his son exactly what he felt. If Patrick had died a hero in his eyes and then your Gramps found out the truth, I think he'd have been even more pissed."

"I guess. I didn't really answer your question though. I think I have a lot of guilt riding around inside of me. But not just because of that, I feel guilty that I'm so happy and my father just died."

"But he wasn't a father to you, Taryn."

"I know."

"If my real father turned up on the doorstep tomorrow, I wouldn't even give him the time of day. A father doesn't become a father because of one action. A father becomes a father because of their actions that follow the giving of the sperm. You have nothing to feel guilty about, Taryn, Patrick was a virtual stranger to you."

"So, how would you feel if you found out that your biological father really did care for you?"

"Too little, too late!" Cory could feel herself getting all worked up. The subject of her birth father always managed to get her riled up, but before she became blind to the real topic of the conversation, she saw something in Taryn's eyes. "Is that what happened? He admitted to you that he cared?"

"Kind of. He told Gramps."

"Taryn, if he told your Gramps the truth then they hardly parted on bad terms. You finally got the answer to your questions. You should be happy. I have so many questions I want to ask my real father, but I know I'll never get the chance. Don't dwell on what might have been. You need to look forward to the future. In a month you'll have the whole world at your door and new opportunities. Guilt is a nasty emotion; don't let it eat you up inside, otherwise you'll become like your father." She giggled out loud. "God, I sound like I'm playing a role in some Star Wars movie! However, the scriptwriters do have a point. Whatever made your father so screwed up obviously had something to do with that secret you were talking about. I'm guessing his guilt over some deed couldn't allow him to show his real feelings. You're heading in the same direction, your guilt over your Gramps finding out and Patrick's death will only end up with you going down the same route."

She dropped the bed covers that had been grasped in her hands and held both of them in front of Taryn to emphasize her next point. "Taryn, you have two choices: deal with the guilt, let it go, move on and make something of your life…" She lifted one of her hands as if they were part of a balance system, "or let the guilt chew you up and be miserable." She moved her hands up and down to show that there really was a choice to be made. "Trust me, when it comes to guilt I know a lot. There was a time, a few months after arriving here, when I felt so much guilt for what I'd put Sam through, for leaving all the animals behind, and for the pain I knew my mother was going through with the split, that it ate away at me. But, I made the choice to deal with it and let it go. It wasn't just my actions that caused Sam and my problems. I will accept my part in our split and I've dealt with my demons. Now, I couldn't be happier because I have JJ. You've got a great future and from the looks of things a wonderful woman who looks like she's in it for the long term. What's your choice going to be?"

Taryn was a little dumbstruck. She'd never been on the end of one of Cory's little speeches. "I can now see why JJ says you rule the roost! You're kind of scary when you get a bee in your bonnet. You should go into politics!"

Cory shrugged. "You just caught me on a topic I know a lot about. The sins of the father should not be delivered on their offspring. Isn't that the saying or something very near to it."

"You're right. I've been dwelling on the past and what might have been, instead of looking to the future."

"Speaking of the future. What plans do you have?"

"Hey, you just jumped the line with that question. I thought we were taking turns?"

"Well, as I answered most of your question for you, you can answer another of mine. Have you and Jace made any plans for the future? Any jobs on the horizon?"

"No, not really. We've both been so busy that heart-to-hearts haven't been on the agenda. Well, that's not entirely true. Jace has tried talking to me, but I kind of shut her out. I…err…I think she might be hinting at me moving into her place."

"Really?" Cory was a little astonished at the comment, as she knew what the others were plotting back home. "What did she say?"

"Nothing really concrete, but she keeps watching all these home improvement shows and then asks my opinions about her place. You know, 'if you lived here, what color would you paint the room' or 'what would you do with this room, if it were yours'? She's also asked me what I'm going to do about living arrangements if I get a job that's a little farther away."

"What did you say?"

"I didn't really. To be honest, I hadn't really thought about it. We've only been dating for three months; I'm not sure whether I want to move into yet another girlfriend's house. Look what happened between Marti and I!"

Cory's interest was piqued. From what she could gather from JJ, Jace was deeply in love with Taryn, so much so that she was willing to move heaven and earth to be with her. She wondered whether Taryn really felt the same way for their boss. "I thought things were different between you and Jace?"

"They are. What I feel for Jace doesn't even compare to Marti. I guess I'm just insecure. What if Jace realizes that there are plenty of fish in the sea and decides to investigate?"

"Ain't gonna happen, my friend. I've seen the way she is with you. She's had that same dreamy look on her face from the moment I met her. Remember what I said to you way back last summer?"

Taryn rubbed her face, "I remember. You told me then that you thought Jace fancied me. I was too blind to see it. You were right, you know?"

"I know. She has the same goofy expression on her face when she talks to you that J has when she looks at me. I know I had my doubts about Jace in the beginning, but that's because I see her at work and she's a very different person. When she's away from work, she's a real softy. And she's so in love with you. She's not going anywhere, Taryn, unless you tell her to go."

Taryn stretched out, trying to stifle the yawn, "That hike today has worn me out. How about we try and sleep?"

Cory rubbed her sleepy eyes, "Same here. I don't think I'll have any problems trying to sleep. Just remember what I've said mate, these shoulders may be younger than yours but they've experienced the weight of the world at one time."

Taryn leaned over and lightly kissed Cory's lips, "Thanks. I'll remember. JJ's a very lucky woman."

Cory slapped Taryn playfully away, "You keep your horny hands away from me, Murphy!" She was very happy to see her friend smile properly for the first time in ages. "Sleep well."

"I will, so long as you stay on your side of the bed!" Taryn snuggled under the blankets.

"I promise. You're too scrawny for me anyway! I like my women tall, dark and drop dead good looking!"

Taryn giggled, "Me too, my friend. Me too."

***

Jace had slept even worse than the night before and had given up any type of pretence. She had risen with the sun and given the bedroom one last coat of paint, before moving onto the bathroom and living room. She was busy taping the edge of the living room windows when a peppy JJ appeared in the doorway.

"How long have you been up?"

"A while. You're earlier than I expected."

"I think I'm suffering from the same syndrome as you. I've tried running and then tidying. I decided I'd scoot over before going for the furniture. How's it going?"

"The master bedroom is done. It should be dry by the time you get the furniture here. I'm looking forward to dressing that room." She checked her watch. "Have you heard from Cory this morning?"

JJ laughed, "Not a chance. You put two sleeping monsters in the same room as each other and there's not a chance they'll be awake before ten!"

"True!"

JJ glanced around the room. "You've done a pretty good job at prepping this room. Bill will be through here with the roller in no time. Have you had breakfast yet?"

"No. I didn't want to wake Jane and Bill. It's not often they have a night without the kids. I thought they might appreciate a lie in, if you know what I mean?" She winked at JJ.

"How about we leave them a note and you take Bill's truck to the furniture store. We can do breakfast beforehand and kill two birds with one stone."

"Sounds like a plan to me." Jace grabbed a piece of cardboard and scribbled a quick note to Jane and Bill.

***

Taryn checked the clock on the console. "We should be home in just over an hour. Did you have fun?"

"Yeah. The pony trekking yesterday was a blast."

"Did JJ say why she was over at Jane's place?"

Cory shrugged her shoulders noncommittally, "Something about a computer problem. Jace was there working on the orientation figures and the computer froze. I think they called J to see if she could save the data before they lost it all."

The weather the entire weekend had been phenomenal for New England and both women were sporting rosy, red cheeks and new freckles. "Well, it'll save me a trip to the apartment so I'm not complaining and Uncle Bill is going to throw some burgers on the grill. We can throw a little birthday celebration in there for Jace."

"When's her birthday?"

"Wednesday. She doesn't think I know, but I've seen her driving license."

"What have you got her?"

"I'm still working on it. I picked up that long-sleeved shirt yesterday, some vouchers for the movies, but I'm struggling to find the ideal present for the woman who has everything. After talking with you the other night, I might just have the ideal present."

"Yeah?"

"Yeah. I've really enjoyed living back at the house, but it doesn't really feel like home. Sometimes, I miss the privacy that Jace's house affords us. I know I could move into the annex. Jane and Jace have both tried to get me to look at it, but it's just so full of Patrick's presence. It reminds me of those scary childhood days when I would try and find him after school, only to be kicked out by his insults. No, I'm going to be brave and ask Jace to make a life with me, at her place."

Cory tried not to say anything about the annex, but her mind was racing. Oh shit! I hope you know what you're doing, Jace Xanthos, because I have a little spitfire sitting beside me and she's ready, willing and able!

***

JJ ran into the newly decorated living room, "That was Cory on the phone. They're five minutes away. Taryn's just popped into the supermarket for something. Is everything ready?"

Jace ran her eyes over the living room. The room looked nothing like the bleak canvas they had been presented with three days earlier. "What do you think, kids?"

"She's going to have a cow!" Josie exclaimed.

Four sets of eyebrows raised at the comment.

"Don't even ask!" Jane replied, chastising her daughter with a look. "I blame her friends for that comment."

"It looks great, Jace. Can I sleep in the spare room tonight?" Taylor asked beseechingly.

Jace winced at the question. It wasn't exactly what she'd had in mind when she'd prepared the two beds earlier that day. Before she could answer, she heard Jane reply quite sternly that he wasn't to make that suggestion again. She winked a thank you at her friend.

***

Taryn couldn't quite believe the way the four vehicles were parked on the drive. It left no room for her to even pull close to the side of the house. She reluctantly parked on the edge of the front yard and popped the trunk of the Camry. Before leaving the vehicle, she turned to her friend. "Thanks for the weekend, Cory. I really did have fun."

"Same here, pal."

The pair grabbed their bags from the trunk. Cory placed hers in the back of JJ's truck before following Taryn up the pathway to the front of the house.

"You'd have thought we'd have had a welcoming party or something!" Taryn grumbled. She tried to open the front door, but to her consternation the door was locked. "Where is everyone?" She fumbled through the pockets of her backpack, trying unsuccessfully to locate her keys. "Shit! Cory, remind me to put my house keys on the same chain as my car keys!"

Cory tried to keep a straight face, but she had already caught sight of the large group of people hiding at the edge of the house.

***

"Okay, guys, after three…one…two…three…"

"SURPRISE!" The group yelled, coming out from their hiding place.

"Huh?" Taryn scowled, unsure of whether the surprise was for her or Cory. When she saw her friend's grinning face, she knew that the exclamation was aimed her way. "What surprise?"

Jace pushed her way gently through the kids and enveloped her girlfriend in a hug. "I've missed you." She whispered in Taryn's ear.

Taryn allowed Jace to hold her for a second or two before pulling back, "What is this about a surprise? What did you do?" She felt a small, sweaty hand make its way into her own and looked down into bright blue eyes.

"It's awesome, Ryn. Better than when Uncle Patrick had it!" Taylor exclaimed excitedly.

At the sound of Patrick's name, Taryn turned her attention to Cory who was happily hugging her girlfriend and exchanging little chaste kisses. "Do you know what they're talking about?"

"I might," winced Cory as she saw the look of fire flash across Taryn's face. "It depends how mad you are?"

Taryn looked back into the blue eyes she loved and trusted. "What's going on, Jace?"

Butterflies were swirling around inside Jace's stomach. The idea and plans that she had watched come into fruition were suddenly dampened by the look of ire on her lover's face. "I wanted to surprise you." She gulped, "Well, we all wanted to surprise you…" She saw confusion flit across Taryn's eyes, "An early graduation present. Come with me."

Like Moses with the Red Sea, the Weston's and guests parted, allowing Jace to lead Taryn around the corner of the house.

Taryn caught her first glimpse of the decking. "Wow! This is awesome. What…? When…? How…?"

Jace squeezed Taryn's hand, "Hold onto those thoughts until you've seen it all." She led her girlfriend up the decking steps. On the deck was a small table laden with glasses and drinks. To the side was a small grill and chairs that matched the table. "Do you like it?"

"Yeah, it's great. Wait there's a door! There's never been a door on this side of the house before. I don't understand. Why is it numbered 214A?"

Jane stepped forward. "Well, the main house is 214 Heartfield Road; therefore, the attached apartment should really have it's own address."

"Apartment?"

Jace tightened her hold on Taryn's hand as she felt the limb begin to tense. "Come with me." She opened the door and led Taryn through it. She could feel the blonde resist her motions to go any further.

"But…" Taryn's protests stopped as she took in the airy living room. Gone was the dark, foreboding wood. In its place was a pine entertainment cabinet, with a matching coffee table and picture table. The navy blue couch and chair took the place of the tattered, tartan three-piece couch that used to take up half of the room. She glanced around at the walls. They were painted in a light cream and edged with blue. She could see a large photo of her mother and her framed on the main wall. "It's beautiful."

"There's more." Jace turned to see Jane and Bill holding the kids back and retreating to the deck. She was pleased that they had sensed Taryn's shocked state and had wanted them to do the rest of the tour alone. She showed Taryn around the bare kitchen and they peeked into the bathroom that was decorated with bright greens and blues. The shower curtain had a variety of tropical fish printed on it and seashells were stencil along the edge of the bath and ceiling.

"You did all this in one weekend?" Taryn was struggling to take in the complete transformation. The rooms looked nothing like before. The drab, dark colors were gone. Even her father's scent had left the air to be replaced by the fresh aroma of paint and polish. She could smell a hint of vanilla and followed her nose to where the smell was coming from. She paused at the threshold of Patrick's old bedroom.

Jace felt Taryn's muscles stiffen as she reached for the doorknob. "I'm right behind you, babe. I did this for us." She reached over Taryn's shoulder and pushed the door open.

Taryn could see the new cream carpet and matching walls. The cranberry curtains matched the tall bureau and the two bedside tables. The king size bed was covered with a buff comforter and matching sham. The huge pillows were a mixture of cranberry/buff checks and the large back pillows matched the comforter material. On the tables were small reading lamps and on one was a framed photo of Taryn and Jace that had been taken by Jane in Florida.

Tears rolled slowly down the younger woman's cheeks. "I'm a little overwhelmed. It's such a transformation." She sat on the edge of the bed. "It must have taken a lot of work and planning."

Jace let out a sigh of relief. She hadn't been sure of what Taryn's reaction would be. "I had good help." She bent down and opened one of the drawers to the bedside table. She handed a small pink envelope to Taryn. "This is for you."

Taryn took the envelope and saw the familiar handwriting on the front. Tentatively, she slipped a finger under the flap and slowly pulled the seal apart. She took out the small card and read the front sentiment: 'You are one in a million…' She looked up into loving eyes and opened the card.

To Our Squirt,

Your Gram and I are very proud of all of your accomplishments. We both wanted to thank you for your help and support over the past few weeks. You have made us very happy and were a welcome surprise to the family all those years ago. You continue to surprise us every day and have grown into a remarkable woman.

Please accept our graduation present - we told Jace and Jane to buy whatever they needed to get a smile on your pretty face.

We will be up for the proper celebration and expect a cookout on that new grill of yours.

All our love,

Gramps and Gram

Taryn dropped the card onto the bed and let the tears flow freely. Her grandfather's words had helped to heal the last open wound. She felt Jace's hand on her back. She took a few moments to collect herself, before looking into the eyes of the woman she loved beyond words.

"I don't know what I did to get such a wonderful woman, but whatever I did I hope I keep doing it forever."

Jace knelt down in front of her lover, "I hope so, too. I really did miss you while you were away and I think I poured my heart into making this as special as I could." She kissed Taryn gently on the lips. "The bedroom furniture is a gift from your grandparents. If you'd like to follow me, I'll show you what Jane, Bill and the kids supplied."

Intrigued, Taryn took Jace's hand and allowed herself to be pulled up off the bed. "Lead on."

Jace walked them out of the bedroom and into the guest room. The light green paint made the room seem very bright. There was a double bed against one of the walls and a computer desk on the opposite side. "Jane and Bill decided to use Patrick's old desk for the kids. I thought this would be good for your computer when you get one. The room has a lot of natural light and I put a little sofa over here for afternoon naps on those long teacher vacations you get!"

"It's wonderful. I'm a little lost for words, which for me is a first. I can't believe you did all this in such short time. You must be exhausted?"

"A little. Jane and I have been planning this for a while. Whenever you went to class or the library I would come over here and begin the cleaning up process. Bill laid the rug down last weekend while you were at my place. He got it from an old work job and cut it to size. Once he was happy, he rolled it up and placed it in the attic area. We just prayed you wouldn't come in here before leaving for New Hampshire."

"Wow. I'm still processing everything. I should go and say thank you to everyone. I can't believe the difference the deck makes to the side of the house. Was that your idea?"

"A little bit of Bill, JJ and me. It was my present to you. That and the living room furniture." The couple walked out onto the deck and stood in front of a quiet family. Taryn tried to keep the stern look on her face, but after one look at Taylor's tense face she opened her arms to thank every member of her family.

***

Taryn leaned against the deck railing. "Jace, I don't think I can handle anymore surprises. Can I open my eyes yet?"

"Two more minutes. I promise." She looked over at her girlfriend. "No peeking."

"You do know you're killing me, don't you? I was never any good at surprises or waiting. I'm not known for my patience…"

Her girlfriend's lips covering hers cut off her words. "Shush! Come with me, but keep those eyes shut."

Taryn held onto Jace's arm tightly, trusting her lover not to walk her over the edge of the deck or dump her on her ass. She felt Jace sit down and tried to follow. The seat wobbled against her weight and she instinctively opened her eyes.

"A hammock!" She exclaimed.

"Our very own." Jace made herself comfortable and then pulled Taryn against her body. "I like the privacy of the deck. The hammock in the garden can be seen from every window in the house, so I rarely got a chance to do this." She lowered her head to Taryn's and gave her the first passionate kiss of the evening.

Several minutes passed as the lovers reunited and their desire began to burst into flames of passion. "Whoa…" Taryn gasped as she broke for a much needed breather. "I'm still trying to get my head around all the changes you guys have made to this place. It looks so different…I never thought I'd ever find myself thinking of this section of the house as my home."

"Is that what you're thinking?" Jace looked up at the stars, her heart hammering in her body as she thought of her next step in their relationship.

"I'm not sure…I guess that would depend on what you thought."

"Well, I wouldn't have done all this if I hadn't hoped you'd live here."

Shit! How could I have read her so wrong? There I was thinking she wanted me to move in with her. I couldn't have been more wrong if I'd tried! But where does that leave us? Taryn searched out her mother's star and looked at the twinkling object for a while. Finally in a very quiet voice, she whispered her thoughts. "I guess I thought that maybe…well, maybe you might …well, that you and I …we could maybe have moved into your place together…as a couple."

Jace shifted quickly on the hammock, nearly tipping the pair of them onto the decking below.

"Too soon, I guess?"

"No…I've been thinking of it, too." She saw uncertainty in Taryn's eyes. "Wait here a minute. I have one last surprise." She saw Taryn's brow lift. "I swear, only one more surprise."

Taryn swung on the hammock waiting for Jace to return. She had watched her girlfriend dash down the deck steps and disappear around the corner of the house. She heard a car door slam shut and a minute later, the silhouette of Jace appeared carrying a large object.

Jace tried unsuccessfully to hide the surprise behind her back as she climbed the steps. She placed the object under the hammock and nervously sat next to Taryn. "It was like a dream come true when you agreed to date me and I've enjoyed every minute of our time together. So much so, that I dread evening times because I hate to be apart from you."

"I know. It hurts me, too. But we've managed to spend every night together since spring break." Taryn took Jace's shaky hands in hers.

"I know. It's been awesome spending every night with you, but I know in the future we're both going to be busy with work and I don't want to spend any more time than I have to away from you." Jace looked into dark eyes and struggled not to kiss the beautiful woman beside her. "It would have been easy to ask you to move into my place with me, but you've done that before and I wanted it to be a first for both of us."

Taryn tried hard to keep up with the conversation, "Okay. I feel the same way, so where does that leave us?"

Jace bent down, picked up the mailbox, and handed it to Taryn.

Taryn took the decorated box. On one side there was a small Star Spangled Banner, the number 214A was stamped in the middle and beside that were the names Murphy & Xanthos. Taryn traced the names with her index finger, unsure of the true meaning behind the gesture. She looked into anxious eyes; the answer to her next question clearly written on Jace's expectant appearance.

"I've never moved into a girlfriend's house before and you've never had anyone move into your house. If it's not too soon, I'd like us to live together. Is that something you'd like to do?"

"You want us to live together?" Taryn turned her eyes to the new front door, "Here?"

"Yes. I'd live anywhere with you, Taryn." "But, what about your place?"

Jace tried to settle the nervous feeling in her stomach. She hasn't said no to you yet. Relax! But she hasn't said yes either. Okay, it is now or never to make the statement of your life, Xanthos. "My place has never felt like a home to me. I think we both missed out on the traditional childhood and siblings. When I'm here, I feel like I'm part of a family and I think you do, too. So, I think for a while it would be fun to be part of a family, but have a place where we can be a couple. Maybe in the future we'll want to move back into my place or buy a place together. I want you to feel equal in our relationship, Taryn, and I think me moving in here will do that. You need to be with your family and deal with what's happened recently. It's time to leave the past behind and that means we both deal with our pasts in order to make a future together. What do you think?"

Taryn wiped the tears off Jace's cheeks with her thumb and then did the same to her own. "You are so wonderful. I thought about you so much this weekend and realized my life has changed so much since you came along. In fact, I can't think back to a time in my life when I have been happier. It's been nearly a year since we met and I can't think of a better way to face my past and my future."

"So, is that a yes? You're killing me here!" Jace feigned her heart stopping as she waited impatiently for Taryn's answer.

"That's a yes, doofus. I love you more than I can express. And, I can see from what you've accomplished this weekend and the gift you just offered me, I know I have your complete love and trust."

Jace pulled Taryn into a hug, "I can't wait to tell the whole world that you're my girlfriend, partner and live-in lover."

Taryn pulled slightly away from Jace, "Isn't our having the same address going to cause problems at work?"

"Well, technically I'll still have my place and hadn't planned on renting it out right away. I wasn't a hundred percent sure you'd want to even take the next step. Would it be okay if I didn't change my address on the records until after your grad assistantship ended?"

"Jace, I never want to be the one to put any pressure on you. I think we need to tread carefully. In a month's time, I could be unemployed and the last thing we need is you unemployed, too. I think the people at the payroll office may have a field day knowing that you're going to have a similar address as Jane, let alone the identical one to me. How about we have a great coming out/celebration party when I leave the Achievement Center? Then we can shout it from the rooftops."

"Deal. So, if I said my bags were all packed and in the Jeep, would you think me presumptuous?"

Her answer was a mini tickling torture. Afterwards, the pair cuddled up on the hammock and immediately sealed the deal with a loving kiss, each woman dreaming of the future that lay before them.

***

Postscript

Jace surveyed the bright blue sky and grinned. The weather had been awful the past few days, but as if someone had heard her pleas, the sun had peeked out from behind the clouds and chased them away. She had left the apartment early in the morning in order to get all the things she needed for the surprise party. She had told Taryn that she had things that needed to be done at the college before the graduation ceremony. She had returned at the time she knew Taryn would have had to leave for the practice walk through. She grabbed the bunch of balloons and walked to the mailbox, smiling as she saw the two names boldly written on it. She tied the balloons around the post and watched as the black and red balloons waved in the breeze. Having done the last minute decorating, she headed back to the apartment. Jace grabbed her velvet robe and hat, looked around the apartment one last time and then locked the door.

Jane couldn't help the pride that she felt when she saw Taryn dressed in the long black robe. "Hey there. You look so good. Your Mom would be so proud of you." She kissed her niece on the cheek. "Where's Jace?"

Taryn looked around and shrugged. "I don't know. She's been acting very mysterious. She said she had things to do and disappeared. I assumed she'd be here with you."

Jane winced as she realized she had put her foot in it. She knew about the post graduation party and had made the kids promise they wouldn't reveal anything to their cousin and here she was speaking without thinking. "She's around. I just assumed she'd have come here to see you before the ceremony."

"No, I doubt that. She wouldn't want to be seen to have favorites. I told her I'd wave to her. I know she has to sit with the faculty. I can't wait to see her in her doctoral robes."

"Speaking of robes, let me put your hood on before they begin the instructions without you." Jane took the long black hood and fingered the blue velvet collar. "I love graduation, but I wish these hoods were easier to put on. We have a hundred people here with Master's degrees and not one of you can put your own hood on!" She pinned the edge of the hood to Taryn's robe and then pulled the maroon and gray silk backing through the hood. "Okay. You're all set. Try the hat on."

Taryn used the makeshift mirror to position the hat and still show that she had hair underneath the black mortarboard. "How do I look?"

"Good. Remember the tassel goes on the left. You've already graduated once so there's no need to change it from the right to the left." She kissed Taryn's cheek. "I'll be with your Gramps and Gram in the audience. I love you."

Taryn looked at the love and pride radiating from her aunt's eyes. "I love you, too. Now scoot before people begin to think there's more to us than just work colleagues." She hugged the older woman and kissed her on the cheek. "Thanks, Auntie Jane. I couldn't have done it without you."

***

Taryn walked up the main street of the college campus and into the huge tent that had been erected especially for the ceremony. The mass of undergraduates that flooded in behind them reminded Taryn of her first graduation experience. She looked around and caught sight off her Gramps as he waved frantically in her direction. She waved back and then settled down into her seat. She didn't have time to get too comfortable as the ceremonial speaker was already beginning to introduce the faculty and staff procession. Taryn's eyes followed the procession until her eyes met those so familiar to her. She took in the colorful gown and King Henry the Eighth hat. Her heart pounded with emotion as Jace winked at her and then continued to her seat.

Jace desperately wanted to leave her seat and go and tell her partner how beautiful she looked, but she knew protocol forbade her from breaking formation. All she could do was wink and smile. She had yet to 'out' herself at work and even more so had not revealed her relationship with Taryn. The transition from one home to another had been more than she had ever imagined and she had chosen this day to be the one where she shared her love for Taryn with her work colleagues. She knew it was a risky decision, but Taryn would no longer be working at the Center after graduation. She had been lucky enough to be offered a leadership post at a local community college in their equivalent to an Achievement Center.

The introduction ceremony, like so many prestigious occasions, was long, and at times monotonous. After the introduction speeches, the graduate degrees were given. Taryn watched as the undergraduates took the long walk from being college students to graduates. She sighed with relief when the speaker introduced the advanced degrees and she felt her stomach churn when she saw the signal that their line should precede forward. She walked slowly toward the stage and up the platform walkway, looking out of the tent to the keen observers who were watching the ceremony from outside the tent. She paused to wait for the line ahead of her to move and turned when she heard a familiar voice. She smiled at Cory and JJ and posed for the camera shot. She quickly kissed her friends on their cheeks. "How do I look?"

"Like a true brainiac." JJ grinned. "Here." She passed Taryn a rose. "Somebody tall, dark and good-looking told us to deliver this to you and to tell you quote, 'I love you, babe', unquote."

Taryn blushed. "Thanks, guys." She saw the bodies in front of her move. "Got to go." She edged nearer the stage and waited for the announcer to call her name. Taking a deep breath, she walked slowly across the stage, shaking the hands of the Dean and then collecting her diploma from the President. As she walked off the stage, she linked eyes with Jace and held the rose up. Jace clicked the camera and gave Taryn the thumbs up.

Jace put the camera down and watched Taryn walk down the side of the seating area.

"That's your grad assistant isn't it?"

Jace turned to the Assistant Dean of the Graduate School. "Yes. She's been a godsend." In more ways than you'll ever know, She added in her mind.

"I bet you'll be sorry to see her go. I've heard good things about her."

Jace smiled politely, "She's been a great asset to the Center, but as always we don't have the resources to hire them full time. So we groom them as best as we can and then we watch other colleges poach them from us." She added bitterly. There had been discussion about the Center being funded for an extra staff member, but the final decision had been to hire two grad assistants for the following school year. Jace had been furious, as Taryn would have been ideal for the job. However, Jane had pointed out the downside to having Taryn on staff full time. Both Taryn and Jace had decided that their relationship came first and Taryn had eagerly pursued positions at other colleges.

***

"Why are we going this way home?" Taryn asked grumpily as her stomach grumbled loudly for the third time.

"I want to take a photo of us together in our robes away from prying eyes. Humor an old lady, please." She smiled at Taryn hoping to pacify the grouchy woman. She wasn't exactly lying. She did want a photo of them, but she also wanted to give the guests time to arrive at the house before them. Jane, JJ and Cory had offered to set up the food and welcome the party guests while Jace distracted the guest-of-honor."

After a few minutes, Jace pulled the Jeep into the small parking lot and grabbed her camera and tripod. "I thought we could stand on the wooden bridge by the waterfall and just take a few shots. I doubt we'll ever be in our ceremonial robes together again and I want to put them in our photo albums to show the grandkids."

"Grandkids?" Taryn grinned at her partner lovingly. Since moving in together, Jace's talk of their future together had gone from owning a cat to talk of them having children. "Aren't you jumping ahead a little bit?"

"You know what I mean." She set the camera up and instructed Taryn where she wanted her to stand. "Okay, make room for me." She dashed to stand by her partner, planting a kiss on Taryn's cheek as she cuddled up behind her.

The pair played around changing the poses and taking quite enough photos to fill a dozen albums. Every now and then, Jace would surreptitiously check her watch to see if it was time to leave. Finally, after a little cuddle and kiss, the pair packed up the photo equipment and jumped into the Jeep.

Taryn's eyes widened as they pulled up to the driveway. She saw all the cars and then the balloons waving in the breeze. "You didn't?" She saw the guilty expression on her lover's face. "You promised you wouldn't surprise me!"

Jace held up her hands and tried to look innocent. "I never promised a thing. You stated that I had better not do anything embarrassing for your graduation and mentioned how much you hate surprises. I never said I wouldn't surprise you!" She dropped her hands and looked seriously at Taryn.

Taryn saw the playful expression leave her girlfriend's face. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing." Jace took hold of Taryn's hand. "I know we said that once you were finished at the Center we wouldn't have any reason to hide. Well, officially, you finished your grad assistantship today…" She watched as Taryn quirked a questioning eyebrow, "and I thought that it was time that we announced our relationship to the world."

"The world?" Taryn squeaked.

"You know what I mean. I invited a few people from work that I trust and who I know love you. Terri and Patti were over the moon when I invited them. It's not a big crowd, but I wanted to finally come clean with everyone so we can start our future together."

Taryn brought Jace's hand up to her mouth and kissed it gently. "You are definitely one of a kind, Jace Xanthos, and very thoughtful. I think it's a great idea. But as I've never officially been in the closet, I'll be more than pleased to finally drag you out of it. How you feeling?"

"A little nervous, but Jane assures me that it will be no surprise to many people. Apparently, my attempts to disguise my feelings toward you have not been as successful as I thought and rumors are flying around the Center."

"So, I guess it's time to admit to the others that I'm Jane's niece, huh?"

"No need to. Jane told Terri and Patty a few weeks ago."

"No way!" Taryn exclaimed, "Nobody said anything to me."

"She made them promise to not treat you any differently. She also explained that it had been her idea and to not give you any grief for keeping it secret. Jane says they were very understanding and could relate to why you two kept it quiet. Let's hope they're as understanding when they hear my declaration." She opened her door and felt her stomach churn as she thought of what she would say.

***

Jane passed the drinks around the deck area. The quiet chattering and laughter that filled the air was refreshing and she particularly enjoyed hearing the kids laugh with their grandparents. It felt good to have people from work at her home and she hoped that the atmosphere wouldn't change when the guests heard what Jace had to say.

Patty nudged Terri as she saw the two familiar figures round the corner. "Don't they look cute together?" She whispered to her colleague.

"Yeah. It's too funny that they think we don't know about them."

Patty laughed, "I know. I wasn't sure until I saw their names on the mailbox. It's kind of cute and Jace has sure been different since the blonde bombshell arrived. I'm going to miss the little spitfire."

Terri nodded, "I am too, but at least we'll know that she'll visit. She definitely has ties to the Center."

Jane interrupted their talk. "What are you two sniggering about?"

Patty nodded her head in the direction of her boss. "Those two. They make a cute couple."

Jane's mouth dropped open. "Who told you? I made the kids promise to keep quiet until Jace's announcement."

Terri placed her hand on Jane's arm. "No one told us. But you should give the boss a little message. If you're trying to keep something secret, then don't place your name with your girlfriend's on a mailbox and then invite your employees over for a cookout."

Jane gave a big belly laugh, "I forgot about that and from the looks of things so did they. I should go over there and tell them to quit the charade and hold each other's hand." She watched as Taryn greeted some of Bill's family and Jace hugged the Walton's.

"Don't you dare tell her we know! It's not often we get a glimpse into Jace's personal life. I want to hear it from the horse's mouth. We can keep up a charade of our own and watch our sweet boss squirm for a little longer." Patty exclaimed.

Jane's eyes flicked from her colleagues to her boss and back again. "Okay. But if she kills me when she finds out then I'm sending her your way."

***

Jace finished her beer and placed her empty plate and bottle into the separate trashcans. Okay, Jane's bringing the cake out. It's now or never. You take the cake from Jane and then announce to the world how special Taryn is to you. How hard can it be? She jumped when she felt Jane's hand on her back.

"Jace, you don't have to do this. I know for certain that Taryn knows how committed you are to this relationship. You don't have to do anything if it's going to make things awkward for you."

Jace shrugged and took the cake out of Jane's hand. "I've thought about it a lot. To be honest, I'm not doing this totally for Taryn. I know how much she loves me and we've spent a lot of time talking about a future together. I'm doing this for me, Jane. It's time I began to trust more in people and that includes those I care about. I've worked with Patti and Terri all these years and know all about their families and what they do in their spare time. I think it's about time I let them into mine. Isn't that what families do?"

Jane kissed Jace on the cheek. "I'm behind you all the way. Go get 'em, Tiger."

Jace carried the cake onto the deck and tapped Taryn on the shoulder. Her actions caught the eye of all the guests and a hush descended on the small gathering. She cleared her throat and took a deep breath. With trembling hands, she passed the cake to Taryn and turned to address the quiet audience. "I just want to say thank you to you all for coming to celebrate Taryn's graduation at our home." She saw Taryn put the cake on the side table and took her girlfriend's hand for support.

"It's been an emotional year for a lot of us at the Center and I know Taryn has had many challenges this year in her personal and school life. One of her biggest challenges was taking on me as a girlfriend and I just wanted to tell the world that I love this woman more than I could ever express in words." She turned to Taryn and kissed her soundly on the lips.

After a few seconds, she broke the kiss, blushing profusely as she caught Terri's eye. "I'd like you to raise a glass and congratulate Taryn on gaining her master's degree and graduating with a 4.0 grade point average!"

"Congratulations." Yelled the crowd.

Taryn ducked her head, embarrassed by the enthusiastic praise coming her way. She took the knife from Jane and held it on the cake. "I want to add my thanks for you all coming today. I was very surprised to see all of you here and I want every one of you to know that I think of you as family. I've made some very special friends at the Center…" She held Cory's gaze for a few moments before continuing and if circumstances were different I'd be fighting tooth and nail for a job in the Center. "However, I wouldn't change the reasons for my leaving even if you paid me a million dollars. This year has been a year of growth for me and I have Jace to thank for so much. I've learned a great deal in such a short time and I hope to take what I've learned to my new job and show them how good my training was at the Center. I'm going to miss you guys tremendously, but I'll be back. I have a vested interest in the Center."

She cut the cake and offered the first piece to her partner. "I love you, Jace."

Jace took a bite of the creamy frosting covered cake and licked her lips. She chewed a few times and then leaned over and kissed Taryn's cheek. "Here's to the future."

Taryn passed the knife to her aunt and wrapped her arms around Jace's body opening her mouth to the piece of cake Jace was holding in front of her. "It's definitely goodbye to the past, hello to the present and eagerly awaiting our future together." She raised her frosting covered lips to Jace's and sealed the promise with a kiss.

J The End

Let me know what you think! xenajules@hotmail.com

Thanks to Reagan and Kelly for their beta-reading and support over the months of writing this.

Jules

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