THE POSSIBILITIES

by ChicagoTunnelKid

Author’s Note: This story is a continuation of The Opportunity, written for WFOL 2018.  You need not have read that story, however, to read this one.

__________

The months leading up to Joe and Catherine’s exit from the DA’s office and establishing their own practice together were exhausting and hectic. Moreno got every penny out of their salaries he could, knowing that his best team would be leaving. Many big cases needed to be finished or started strongly to pass on to the next team.

Meanwhile, Catherine was overseeing the renovation of the brownstone that she and Vincent, and she and Joe, would share as home and office respectively. She learned a hands-on approach was necessary to prevent mistakes and to make sure the work done was done well. That meant late evenings, because she had asked that construction not start until noon and work late so that she would be able to be there a good portion of the time. The workmen grumbled, but she paid a premium and they acquiesced. Then she still had work from the office to do, and would do it at the architect’s table before going home. She was afraid if she went home, intending to spend a few more hours working, she’d never do it after catching sight of her bed.

Between her work at the office and the renovation at the brownstone, Catherine had little time to devote to Vincent – this at a time when both had crossed the mental barriers to their relationship and were eager to engage fully. Both had not wanted to wait for the joining, yet schedules and exhaustion were making them wait anyway. And, oh yes, planning for the joining ceremony was something that was suffering from a lack of attention.

Catherine entered her apartment around midnight. She stood inside the door, staring ahead sightlessly. Her satchel fell to the floor next to her. There was a slight waver to her stance as utter exhaustion was stealing over her. She burst into tears, and fell in a heap to the floor, leaning against the door.

Vincent felt her exhaustion, followed by a wave of sadness mixed with frustration. How much longer she could endure this gauntlet, he didn’t know. He opened the balcony door and walked up to her, knelt down, scooped her up into his arms, and lifted her to sit in his lap on her little dinky couch. He cradled her with love and quiet support.

She cried herself to sleep in his arms. He figured she needed the rest and would wake her in the early morning so that they might talk. He lifted her up and strode into her bedroom, laying her down. He removed her shoes, coat and jacket, and slid her slacks off. He left her sleeping in her blouse. He removed some of his own layers and climbed in next to her. As anxious as he was to start the next level of their relationship, he knew that waiting was their only option. It was more important for the both of them to get things aligned and in place. And he also did not want to rush their first time together. He closed his eyes, and joined her in sleep.

He awoke before dawn, and had thought he would wake her to talk. But after one look at her face, her cheeks drawn and her eyes with dark rings under them, he didn’t have the heart. Instead, he dressed and found paper and a pen, and sat at her dining table outlining the thoughts he had. He wrote until it became paramount for him to leave before safety evaporated in sunlight. The letter sat on her table.

Catherine woke up groggy, and exceedingly thirsty. She blinked a bit, trying to get her eyes to focus as she tried to remember last night. She slowly scooted off the bed and lumbered into the bathroom. One glance at the mirror had her nearly scream in fright. Wonderful, she thought, I couldn’t look any worse if I tried.

She stripped off her blouse, as she noticed that she was still wearing it, followed by her panties. Perhaps standing under the spray would spark a memory.

The shower did help revive her, and she remembered collapsing against her front door, and crying for what felt like forever. She put on fresh underwear and her bathrobe, and went into the kitchen to start the coffee. She poured herself some juice, and drank it down. She poured a refill, and drank that down. Crying really makes you dehydrated, she thought. She fixed some toast, and by then the coffee was ready so she poured a mug full. She carried both out to her table.

It was then that she saw the letter in Vincent’s handwriting. Vincent! How could she forget that Vincent was with her! And all she did was cry. She almost started to cry all over again but took several deep breaths and reached for the letter.

Catherine, my love,

Oh, the tears formed in her eyes, threatening to spill over. How she loved those words! He seemed so much freer in his affection, both words and small actions, since their decision. It was becoming as necessary to her as the air she breathed.

I didn’t have the heart to wake you from your slumbers. You are exhausted, and you needed the sleep. I worry about you, especially since I feel so far from you Below, while you face so much alone. I put you to bed with every intent to wake you early this morning so we could talk, and took the liberty of sleeping beside you. How wonderful it felt to hold you next to me and feel your soft breath on my hand.

She leaned back to search her memory of the night, and was disappointed to remember none of it, although she slept the best she had in quite some time. It had to have been being in Vincent’s arms, their hearts beating together. She continued reading.

I fear you are burning your candle at both ends[,] and the middle, as well. I have an idea that I hope will help relieve your burdens. I spoke with Father and he approves the idea. I propose you “hire” Kanin as your contractor, to run the job site and oversee the work. You can visit with him when you come visit Below, and you could call him during the day at the job site so that you are still closely involved. Kanin does ask that the work day follow normal hours, so that he has time with Olivia and Luke in the evenings. This would save some money since you would no longer need to pay the premium.

Kanin will stop by around lunch time so you can “interview” him for the job, and the two of you can work out the details, and he can meet Joe. If you do not wish to accept this arrangement, merely tell Kanin when he comes to your office. Please accept, Catherine. We are all worried about you. I am worried about you. We both have so much to look forward to that if something were to happen to you, my life would be meaningless.

I love you.
Vincent

It might work, she thought. This could work! Suddenly, she had energy to get dressed and go to the office. She even caught herself humming as she walked into the building!

* * *

Catherine didn’t have a lot of time to think about Kanin’s upcoming visit. The Morganston case had gone sideways, and two others needed depositions yesterday. She had gotten back just before lunch. She was back at her desk waiting for Kanin when Joe came out of his office and toward her desk.

“No, Joe, I can’t. Whatever it is.”

“I haven’t even opened my mouth yet!” Joe, too, was concerned about how hard Cathy was working. He did his best to take on more at work since she had the renovation to deal with, but Moreno just kept stacking it on. He had thought it would be difficult to leave, but now he couldn’t wait, if he lived long enough.

“You at my desk always means more work. I’ve learned through experience!” She smiled to take the harshness out, or she hoped it did.

“I’m actually here to ask you to lunch. You need a break. I need a break. The world won’t end if we go share a sandwich. What do you say?”

“Joe, that’s sweet, but I’m meeting a candidate for construction foreman here,” she looked at her watch, “any moment now.”

“It’s about time! I thought about suggesting that, but it’s not my place to spend your money. But as good as you are, Radcliffe, you aren’t good enough to keep this up for much longer.”

“I know.” She debated saying more. They would be partners, so she went ahead. “I kind of collapsed last night. If not for a friend, I’m not sure I’d be here today.”

“You’re okay, aren’t you? Nothing serious?” Joe was concerned.

“Yes, a good night’s sleep and an excellent suggestion, including a referral of someone trusted, and suddenly, it all seems possible again!”

Joe smiled. “Good. I’ll let you go and hope your meeting goes well.”

“Thanks, Joe, and thank you for the offer. I’ll take a rain check. I suspect we’ll need a break in the future.”

He gave her a thumbs up as he left.

* * *

Catherine was pouring a cup of coffee when she saw Kanin come in. She thought he looked a bit uncomfortable, remembering his past run-in with the office. As hard as it was, facing Mrs. Davis and apologizing was the best thing he could have done for her and for him. Catherine worked hard and got him only a year in jail with five years’ probation, largely with the support of Mrs. Davis who had not only forgiven him, but now went with him to speak about drunk driving to schools and colleges as part of his probation. Catherine knew that Kanin never forgot, and just being here brought it up for him.

“Kanin, we’ll talk in Joe’s office. He went out for lunch.” She motioned behind her to a door. They walked in, she closed the door and invited him to sit next to her on Joe’s couch.

“Thanks for meeting me here, Kanin. I know the memories it stirs up, but I’ve been so busy it’s hard for me to get away. As it is, I need to watch the time for a deposition I need to take.”

“Vincent said you were busy.” Kanin looked down. “If it wasn’t for the two of you, I’m not sure where I’d be, so coming back here is the least I can do to help you out.”

“Taking on the contractor’s job will be helping me out immeasurably,” she said, grasping his hands in hers. “Thank you so much, Kanin. You’re sure Olivia’s okay with this?”

“Yes. Actually, we’re kind of hoping this might lead to a more permanent type of job. I’ve still got three years to go on my probation, and it would be easier to just live Above.” He smiled hesitantly. “And if Olivia finds she likes it, we may transition to Helpers.”

“I’m happy for you, Kanin. Does this mean you might be seeing your family in the future?”

He shrugged. “I haven’t decided that yet. But it is still a possibility. And Luke would have a grandmother, so there is that.” He shrugged again, as if pushing it off for another day.

“Well, let me say I’m thrilled to have you. I know the quality of work you do, and that’s what you’ll expect from the men working on the renovation. I know you’ve seen the plans when you built the tunnel entrance and false wall, but I can come down tomorrow evening and bring the plans and go over them with you. Most of the finishing materials have been picked out, they just need ordering and installation.”

“That sounds great, Catherine. You can tell them tonight that the work day will be going back to normal in two days, and perhaps you could be there to introduce me?” He looked hopeful, knowing his acceptance would be facilitated if she handed the baton to him in front of everyone.

“I’ll need to juggle a few things, but I’ll be there,” she assured him. “And I’ll see you tomorrow night!” They stood and left Joe’s office just as he was returning.

“Joe, I’d like you to meet my new foreman – Kanin Evans. Kanin, this is my new soon-to-be- partner, Joe Maxwell.”

The men shook hands.

“I’m glad Cathy decided to get some help on that renovation. She – we – expect her standards to be upheld.” Cathy hid her slight smile behind Kanin. Trust Joe to support her by letting this new contractor know that he expected the best work, not just her.

“I’ll do my best, and you will both be pleased.” Kanin spoke confidently. “Catherine, until Friday morning then.” He nodded goodbye.

They watched him leave. Joe turned to Cathy. “Hey, isn’t he that guy you found for the DUI hit and run?”

She nodded.

“Are you sure about this guy?” Joe knew she did nothing without thought, but still.

“Joe, he’s a craftsman. He’ll keep the crew in line and productive. Besides, he’s serving his probation, and I hear from Mrs. Davis he’s doing a fine job speaking to kids about the dangers of drinking and driving.”

“Okay, you’re the boss.” Joe headed into his office, and Catherine went to get the materials for the deposition for which she was going to be five minutes late.

* * *

 Keeping her nose to the grindstone, Catherine was able to get her work done the day she was to meet Kanin Below. Joe tried to catch her just before she left for the day, but she adroitly avoided him. This was too important; it meant not only a lighter load on her shoulders, but maybe, just maybe, she and Vincent would be able to carve out some time to be together. Just the thought made her tingle and blush. Abstinence certainly enhanced the libido!

She quickly controlled her wayward thoughts so that Vincent might not catch her drift. Besides, tonight was about the brownstone. She breathed deeply to get a grip on herself as she descended the ladder to the threshold. Vincent met her, of course.

“You look happy,” Vincent smiled, “and rested.”

“That is thanks to you!”

He held out his hand for hers and together they walked to Father’s chamber, where Kanin would be waiting. They walked in companionable silence, the mere touch of their hands allowing them to feel a closeness for which others could only wish.

Father looked up as they entered from the table where Kanin stood beside him.

“Ah! Here you both are. Kanin was beginning to wonder if you two had gotten lost.” Father tamped down a smile. Now that he not only accepted Catherine but their relationship, which would soon culminate in their joining, he seemed to enjoy the occasional needling about the two lovebirds, as he sometimes called them. Vincent withstood it, while Catherine actually found it sweet, if only a little annoying.

“Well, I’ll let the three of you get on with your meeting.” Father gathered his cane in preparation for leaving.

“Please, Father,” Catherine implored, “don’t feel you have to leave. I’m sure you are interested in the progress made and the plans to move forward.”

“You’re sure? The both of you?” He looked from one to the other of the pair.

“We’re sure,” Vincent stated with a familiar tilt of his head.

They all sat down around the table. Over the next hour, Catherine brought out the plans for each floor, starting with the basement, and reviewed the status. She worked her way up the floors, pointing out concerns she had so that Kanin would know to pay closer attention.

“That all looks good,” Kanin commented. “Seems things are well in hand.”

“Pretty much,” Catherine admitted. “But it took a lot of late evenings for me to be sure. I’m so happy that is ending! And so are the workers, by the way. I don’t think you’ll have any trouble taking the reins tomorrow.”

“And the basement is finished?” Father asked. “No discernment of a false wall?”

Kanin answered for Catherine. “That’s been done a while now, Father. Vincent should be in no danger from entering the brownstone.”

“Marvelous!” was all Father said.

My, how times have changed, Catherine thought.

“Do you have that list of materials still needing to be ordered, and the vendors you’ve chosen?”

“Yes, Kanin, I do.” Reaching into her folder, she pulled out a couple of pages full of items. She handed those to him to review.

“Countertops need to be ordered first. They take a while to produce, and that means we need to get the cabinets in place so that they can take measurements.” Kanin was lost in thought. Watching him, Catherine knew he was the right person for this job. She would do what she could to get him a job Above, so he could make the transition. He deserved some happiness for himself and his family.

“What is your timeline, Kanin?” Vincent asked.

“The plumbing has been roughed in, and the electrical is almost done with the re-wiring.” He peered at the blueprints. “Well, actually, you and Joe could probably move into the ground floor in a couple of weeks if you wanted, and didn’t mind some background noise.” He grinned[,] looking at Catherine.

“The second floor will probably be finished in another month, and the top floor a month after that.” He stood up from leaning over the plans. “All in all, I’d say three months, tops!”

“Three months, you say.” Father stroked his beard. “I’d say that’s just enough time to plan your joining ceremony!”

* * *

Vincent walked Catherine back to her threshold. Both were walking with lighter hearts. Father’s mention of their joining ceremony was a welcome boost they both needed. It seemed more real, somehow. The walk back was as silent as the walk to the meeting. Yet, Vincent felt Catherine’s turbulence of emotions. There was more to it than the excitement of the joining, he felt certain. What it was, he had no idea. Or, maybe he did.

“What has your thoughts churning, Catherine?”

She sighed. “I keep forgetting that you are so aware of my inner emotions, even after all this time.” She turned and faced him.

“I want to invite you up to my apartment this weekend: a whole weekend together, just us.” She was watching him carefully. “And all that that means.”

“Why does that cause you turmoil?”

“Because I’m afraid you’ll say wait, it’s not that long until the joining. Let’s wait.” She had paced a bit as she delivered her truth, gesturing broadly, as if to say “Of course, wait.”

He gathered her hands into his, and looked directly into her eyes, his blue turned indigo with passion. “I will join you Friday evening on your balcony.” He lifted first her right, then her left hand, and kissed their backs. “Until then.”

They held their passionate gaze for several moments, until Vincent finally left. Both finished their respective journeys deep in thought.

* * *

Friday in the office seemed a week long, yet not long enough. Catherine felt excitement along with some anxiety. No longer the shy young ingénue, she nevertheless wanted everything to go well after having waited so long to consummate their love. More than once, her distractedness caused her to redo something she had just finished. Thankfully, she had no court appearances scheduled, for she shuddered to think how she would have performed.

She mentally looked over her apartment, listing the things she needed to do before Vincent arrived. A small amount of clutter needed to be stowed, candles and wine made ready, and she decided to stop at a deli on the way home to pick up some appetizers. She smiled to herself. It wouldn’t do to have Vincent run low on energy!

They had never discussed very much about love-making. As Vincent assumed it was not to be for him, it seemed pointless to discuss it and increase the frustration they each felt. They limited physical contact for the same reason. She thought he was likely inexperienced, but she also knew his avid thirst for learning and Father’s supply of medical books would at least outline the technical aspects. But his extensive knowledge of literature stood him in good stead for understanding romance, and the Bond would take care of the rest, she was certain.

“Radcliffe!” Joe stood before her, practically shouting at her.

“Joe, how long have you been standing there?” She gracefully blushed.

“Long enough to apply for retirement,” he groused. “I don’t know what’s on your mind, but I have an idea the guy is a pretty lucky fellow.”

Now, she really blushed. “I’m sorry, my mind wandered. What did you need?”

He stood silently perusing his soon-to-be partner. He knew she’d finally got some respite hiring that contractor. Looked like she was finally taking some time for her personal life. What he needed could wait.

“Go on. Get outta’ here!”

“Really? You don’t mind?” She could scarcely believe this was Joe!

“Hurry up, before I change my mind!”

She grabbed her purse from her drawer, stuffed it into her satchel, and stood. She grabbed her coat and rounded her desk to give Joe a smack on his cheek.

“See ya Monday, Joe!”

She didn’t have to look back to know that Joe stood watching her leave, his hands at his waist, and his head shaking as if, “What is she up to now!”

* * *

Vincent lay on his bed. He stared up at the top of his chamber, wondering how he would ever make it until late evening when he could arrive at Catherine’s. Normally, he had good powers of concentration, but today seemed a very different matter. He had thought some good hard physical labor would be the easiest way to kill time. Both thumbs got banged hard before he gave up.

He had asked William if he needed any help, only to be kicked out storing supplies after putting flour in the sugar bin. William took one long look at him and told him he should go soak in the bathing pool before he caught fire. Vincent wasn’t quite sure what that was supposed to mean, but it did sound like a good idea. A good soak might calm his nervous energy. As he left, he noticed William nudge Cullen with his elbow, and both men broke out in wide grins. He wasn’t sure how, but somehow, they seemed to know something was brewing for Vincent and Catherine.

He soaked until his fingertips puckered. He took care in picking out what he would wear, got everything ready and laid out. It was barely late afternoon. He sighed and plopped down on the bed where he was currently gazing at his chamber ceiling.

Vincent knew Catherine was sexually experienced. He was not. This represented a potential area of difficulty. He wanted to please her, to make her happy that she had cast her lot with him, and not with the likes of Elliott Burke. There were physical differences, primarily in the amount of body hair, that she had never seen. But she always told him that to her, he was beautiful, nothing repugnant or off-putting to her. And he knew she spoke truthfully. In this relationship, it was she who sacrificed much, and he was determined she would not sacrifice in being loved, spiritually or physically.

Sex was discussed Below. They weren’t prudes, and several babies had been born Below. Vincent had seen Father’s medical books, he had perused Devin’s lone issue of Playboy hidden beneath his mattress, and, like all boys, took part in discussion of girls and the kisses and such they might do. Vincent mostly listened, having little to contribute. Even with Lisa, he had never gotten to kissing her before Father sent her away. As he got older, and the talk got bolder, Vincent knew that much of it was exaggerated and boastful. Even then, he winced at how many of the boys talked about the girls, discounting them as body parts.

He sat up. He knew something constructive he could do that would also pass the time. Mary had always been there for him, as close as a mother could be. She could tell him from a woman’s perspective how best to love Catherine. Momentary discomfort of the subject matter would pass quickly with Mary’s no-nonsense approach. He left with purpose, and growing confidence.

* * *

The chores were finished, aided by the little extra time Joe had given her. The appetizer tray and the wine were cooling, candles strategically placed about the living room, with a few casting a magical glow in the bedroom.

Yes, all was prepared except one thing. That had her sitting on her bed, perplexed beyond measure. In all her daydreams today, never once did she think about what she would wear. Should she wear one of his favorite dresses, as if going to a special occasion? Well, the occasion was special, just not the type ordinarily requiring evening wear. Plus, the hours he typically came were well into the night or early morning. He’d seen just about all her pajama and nightgown sets over the years. But would waiting for him in a negligee be too … suggestive, too aggressive?

He would be wearing clothing, likely his best shirt and trousers. Maybe she should just treat this like a date. The kind where the woman says, “Make yourself comfortable while I go slip into something more …” and changes into the peignoir. As it was, Vincent would likely be bringing a rucksack[,] since he wasn’t going back until Monday morning, or so she hoped! So he’d have to change into something … or not!

She hadn’t been this nervous since her first time. She wanted so much for Vincent to be pleased and happy with their decision, both to act on their dream, and to not wait any longer to be together. He should be nervous, she thought. I’m the one with the experience!

She stood up, resolved to quit wool-gathering about such a silly decision. She showered and changed into a nice pair of slacks and a soft green sweater that she knew would highlight her eyes, combed out her hair, applied a light shade of lipstick, and picked the nightgown she would wear later, arranging it in the bathroom. It was a favorite of his, as she knew by watching his eyes. She didn’t think he realized how much she could tell by just his eyes, since he held so much back from her in many ways.

She was ready.

* * *

With Mary’s best wishes ringing in his ears, he went to change his clothes to begin the trek to her balcony. His best shirt and trousers were waiting for him on his bed, neatly folded where he had left them. With short work, they were on him. And then it struck him. What about later? What should he wear in bed?

Normally, he had an old pair of sweat pants large enough to fit him cast off long ago by some man. An old work shirt served as his top. Neither were likely to impress anyone, let alone Catherine. Did he need to wear anything? He’d read stories about couples, especially early on in their relationship, sleeping together nude. That thought spun his head around, and he sat abruptly on his bed, imagining his legs entwined with Catherine’s, her skin so soft to the touch. He shook his head to get himself back. He went to his dresser and pulled out the best-looking shirt and a well-worn, but soft pair of pants that might do as nightclothes.

Socks. What about socks? She had never seen his feet. He was tempted to leave his socks on this weekend, rather than display how different his feet were compared to the men she knew. But even the thought of himself, nude except for socks, was enough to make him think that was not an image he wanted her to have of him! Better she sees his feet now. If his appearance was going to be an issue for her, she needed to know that, and so did he.

He gathered some underwear, a shirt or two, socks, and put in the latest book he was reading. He doubted he’d ever look at it, but somehow, it was comforting to have it along. He looked about his chamber to see if he had forgotten anything. No. All was ready. With a deep breath, he started.

* * *

She heard the soft tap of his nail on the balcony window glass. She flew to the door, hesitated, collected herself and willed her heart to stop pounding. She opened the door and there he stood: the love of her life, the man of her dreams. Resplendent in his white shirt and black pants, with the thigh-high boots she suspected he knew she loved. They stood just looking at each other until, finally, she minded her manners and invited him inside.

She took his rucksack and cape, laying the first just inside her bedroom door, and the latter she draped across one of the dining room chairs. He slowly edged further into the space, and when she turned, once again, they just gazed at each other.

“Funny, isn’t it,” she swallowed, “how long we’ve waited for this night, and now that it’s here, I’m not sure what to do or what to say?” She smiled wanly.

“Isn’t that supposed to be my role?” He tried to smile, but feared it never made it outward.

She pointed to the area of the couch. “Why don’t we sit down? I’ll get the wine, and maybe we can relax a little.” She went into the kitchen while Vincent went and sat on her couch. She returned and put a glass of wine in front of him on the coffee table.

She held up her glass, he picked his up and held it aloft.

“To never giving up on your dreams.”

“Never.”

They each drank.

She swirled her wine. Finally, she looked over at Vincent.

“Why is this so suddenly difficult?”

“Because it means so much?” He arched an eyebrow.

“We don’t have to do this if you’re uncomfortable about it, Vincent.”

“What about you? Are you uncomfortable about it?”

She stared at him, finally remembering to answer. “No.”

He drained his glass, set it on the table, and stood up, all in one fluid motion. He offered his hand to her, and she stood after putting down her glass. He looped his arms loosely around her back.

“Catherine, I never imagined I would be in a situation such as this. Never expected to have the love of a beautiful woman. Whatever happens is … whatever happens. And all of it is more than I could have hoped for.”

She hugged him, her place in his arms never in question. Her favorite place to be. They stood like that until a quiet stole over the both of them. She finally drew back, eyes twinkling. “I think this would be a good time for me to slip into something more comfortable.” She reluctantly pulled away and headed into her bathroom.

He used the time to really look around, now that his senses had returned. All the candles aglow, just for him, made the room look soft and inviting. He appreciated all she had done for him, to make him comfortable in her world.

He heard a sound behind him and turned. The vision took his breath away. She stood just in the doorway of her bedroom, lower candlelight behind her, brighter in front. She was in the light blue negligee that he loved. How did she know? It cascaded about her curves, flowing gently around her body. He stood frozen, drinking in the vision of her.

She saw the look on his face, in his eyes, when he turned around. She stood confidently, letting him have his moment, his realization that she was his, and he was hers. What they had waited for was worth the savoring. It should not be rushed.

She slowly started toward him, stopping in front of him. She lifted her head, tilting just so, and placed a kiss on his lips. His eyes never left hers. She pulled back.

“Do I please you?” She turned about, as if modeling the latest couture. The robe to the negligee mimicked the movement of his cape. His head tilted. “Always.”

“Come,” she said, and reached for his hand. She led him into her bedroom, stopping at the side of it.

She unraveled his cravat, and loosened the buttons of his shirt. He stood there, watching as she pulled his shirt out from under his pants. He stayed her hand with his, and lifted his shirt off in one smooth motion.

She drank in the sight of his chest, the muscles honed from hard work, the hair that dipped and swirled in accent of the musculature. She had seen some of this when he was ill those three days in the apartment, but never in the entirety. She had respected his privacy that she knew he wanted. Now, it was hers for the looking.

He lifted his hand and cupped her cheek in a light caress before sliding his hand down to loosen the one button holding the robe at her neck. She lowered her arms behind her, and the robe slid off to the floor in a pool of satin. Her negligee hung loosely around her shoulders. He raised both hands and smoothed them over her shoulders, sliding off the straps. The negligee caught on her arms until she straightened them, sending the negligee to ripple atop the robe.

Never in his dreams had he seen her lovelier. Every inch of her he was free to peruse, her lithe runner’s body showing some definite definition in her legs, while her body was supple and strong. His heart sang at the sight of her. This incredible woman loved him, and he loved her.

He pulled off his boots, peeled off the socks without a care, and unbound his pants and let them fall. It was her turn.

She looked and gloried in the sight of him. Not a spare ounce of fat anywhere, just muscles. His feet had more hair than she thought he might, and his toenails were longer. Otherwise, he was definitely all man, and all hers.

Together, they reached for one another and met in a kiss that became the prelude of their night of loving. In that kiss, each felt the Bond sing as it swirled between them, hearts connected, souls entwined.

It was a dream no more. Now, it was possibilities.

* * *

The morning light fell across Vincent’s face lying on the pillow as Catherine studied it. He hadn’t been asleep long; she, not at all. Their first night together was magical, as each explored the other and learned what pleased them. There was no hesitancy, no shyness, just two deeply in love people who needed to join their souls in that instant of completion. She spared a moment to mourn the lost time spent apart, then celebrated and anticipated their future.

His face in repose looked peaceful. She had not seen him so content, so at peace, as he looked now. His sleep was deep. She might have thought it was due to their loving exertions but it didn’t seem to be a recuperative sleep, as much as a relaxed sleep. She thought back to the time he spent with her when his illness hit. The time lying in bed with him seemed to reach him in a way nothing else had. Could it be the completion of their love was the key for him?

Did it seal his humanity while allowing his beast to do those things only he could do? She smiled. What would Father think if the very thing he warned Vincent against all these years was the very thing he needed in his development? That thought was enough to send her mind wandering, allowing her to finally sleep.

* * *

It was late Saturday afternoon when the two lovers awoke refreshed. They took turns in the shower, although Catherine was sorely tempted to join Vincent. However, her rumbly tummy spoke of a need for food. Those appetizers they never got to last night would make a fine afternoon snack. She went to get those ready while Vincent showered, starting coffee for her and a pot of tea for Vincent.

He came padding out, barefoot in his pants and his shirt loosely worn. Nothing looked sexier. She sighed. Her turn. She hugged him and gave him a quick kiss. “Coffee is on, and there is a pot of tea brewing. Appetizers are on the table.”

She showered and changed into slacks and an old comfortable Radcliffe sweatshirt. She pulled her wet hair back into a ponytail while it dried. Looking at herself in the mirror, she noted that she was glowing. She hugged herself. She was in love, and Vincent was here. Could life get any better?

She joined him at the dining table. He poured her coffee. She plated some appetizers for each of them. They sat eating and drinking, until each had fully restored brain function.

Simultaneously, it seemed, they both smiled.

“Last night was wonderful!” Catherine reached for his hand. “How do you feel?”

“Happy. Content. At peace.” He smiled. “Last night was wonderful!” He echoed her thought.

He studied his hand in hers. “I wish … I wish I hadn’t fought so hard against this.” He looked up at her. “I truly thought that …”.

She brought his hand up and kissed it. “No regrets about the past. We endured through it all. We loved each other through it all. Now is our time to be together.”

“Yes.” His blue eyes looked deeply into hers.

He stood, pulling her up and into his arms. He kissed her languorously. Separating, he led her to the bedroom. Now, indeed was their time.