On My Knees Hearts of Stone Night abated and with it the storm retreated. The household was still hushed and the halls still shadowed when he woke. He turned and lay his eyes on his own personal angel. His smile slowly spreading over his cracked lips until the split spiked pain in him. His grimace only brief, he licked at the new trickle of blood, tiny droplets reminding him of his need to keep control. She lay against his arm, her steady breath a song in his soul. He lifted his hand to brush away the long strands that fell into her face. She stirred, a small sigh as she licked her lips, her eyes fluttering. He smiled broader despite the bit of pain he suffered for the act. "Moirah..." He whispered just above a breath. "Mmm..." she answered, turning over more and snuggling into his shoulder. His laugh as gentle as a breeze. "Honey, you gotta get up." He toned. Her brow creased, a pout forming on her now moist lips. Again he brushed her hair away from her face. "Baby, I know you're tired... but if my parents find you in my room..." He warned. Her eyes popped open and she bolted up in bed. Her disoriented state making her head swivel around the room. He chuckled, drawing her attention. She looked over her shoulder into his warm and inviting face. Her smile then matched his. He raised his arms, propping his head up. The gold of his mane already shining in the dim morning light as it spread out over the dark pillow and his bronzed skin of his chest and arms. Holding the sheet to her she turned on her hip, her other hand holding her above him. She smiled down into his face, her love pouring out in her gaze alone, and it was enough. He pulled a hand out from under his head, his fingers sliding up her arm, over her shoulder and burring into her hair. He pulled her down into a kiss, sighing when she accepted his tongue and stroked it with her own. Slowly she pulled away, her eyes a dark green so deep and rich. He met her eyes and he knew, knew what she was thinking and knew that if they didn't get up now... he might loose that control he had to fight for so hard before. His hand slipped from the back of her neck and glided over her soft skin of her throat. Her eyes closed and her head dropped back at the pleasing sensation of his touch. His fingers lightly skimmed over the firmness of her rounded breast, pulling the sheet away and slipping his fingertips off the jutting end of one of her nipples. Her tiny moan was enough to stir him, the tightness of his groin forcing him to snap out of his dream state. Her bared breasts heaved slightly with her quickened breath and he bit at his lip again to stifle his own moan. The metalic taste spreading over his tongue and shoving him from the bed. He rolled away from her, reaching to the floor for his pajama pants he'd tossed there the night before. He hoisted them up over his hips as he rose from the bed, his back to her he tied them a bit tighter as he spoke. "I'll take you over to the house so you can get started. I'll leave a note telling them that we went out for breakfast. Mom will be ok with that." She sat up and drew her knees to her chest, the ache inside growing knowing that it was painful for him, as painful as it was for her. "Alright." She whispered in return. He reached for a t-shirt from his drawer and stepped back to the bed. She looked up to him as he handed it to her. Her fingers lingering over his she caught his eyes. His smile was brave but so full of love. She gave him one in return, wide and warm, all of her love filling the crevases. "Come on, I'll make you breakfast at the other house and you can get to work before I slip back into the house for the res of the well plotted ruse." His laugh small but real to her ears. She pulled his shirt over her head and shoved the blankets away, taking the hand he offered. She rose on her knees and wrapped her arms around his middle. "I love you." She said simply. He stroked her hair, smiling down at her. "I love you too." He said softly. She left his bed and he followed her out of the room. He stopped her at the bathroom door. "I'll be ready in a few minutes, go get dressed and gather the things you need. I'll be up to carry them down to the truck." He whispered to her. She nodded and stood on tiptoe to reach his lips for a loving peck. His hands flowed over her long locks, traveling down her back and resting on the swell of her hip, his fingers lightly caressing her backside as the kiss was drawn out into something more proper and full. She giggled when he squeezed the cheek of her ass forcing her to pull away from him. She playfully shoved him away, pushing at his chest. "Behave!" She scolded. He chuckled, she turned to go and he jokingly smacked her ass making her jump. She turned around quickly. "I'm warning you Hanson!" She said in mock menace. "Go!" He hissed, grinning broadly. "I was trying!" She laughed walking away from him backwards. She turned and sashayed through the hallway toward the stairs. He rolled his eyes and groaned as he pushed open the bathroom door. As the door softly closed behind him another was opened more widely from where it had stood half opened. Crisp blue eyes watched her disappear up the stairs. Sadness swirling in the cerulean those eyes turned away, the door now closing quietly yet firmly, shutting away another pained moment. It didn't take her long to gather up her things and she dressed as quickly as possible. She was just zipping up her jeans when he bounded up the stairs as silent as a stag. She smiled up at him as he approached her, scooping her up in a bearhug. His quick kiss left her hungry but she ignored the gnawing of her heart and left his embrace. Picking up a brush she flipped her head over and sorted out the snarls of the night. "This everything?" He asked quietly, not wanting to wake the rest of the household before their get away. "Yup." She said shortly, flipping her head back up and looking in the mirror as she brushed her hair back. Lightning fast her fingers worked over the long tresses, plaiting it in two long tails over each shoulder. He smiled when she tied a ribbon on the end of each. He thought it made her look like a little school girl she was so small. But he didn't say anything... he found it oddly sexy. She handed him the brush and he took her place at the mirror as she slipped into a sweater and shoes. He brushed back his locks into a quick tail, stealing one of her hair ties of soft blue. He downed the brush and took up a mittfull of bags she had gathered on her unslept in bed. He stood at the head of the stairs. "I already left the note, we can just go straight out to the truck." She nodded, spreading up the bed, making the room neater. She tidied the room as he took to the stairs, whispering over his shoulder. "Hurry up honey." He urged. She stood back and sighed, her hands on her hips. "It will have to do for now." She said to herself, taking up her totebag and a box, then she too left the room, then the house. He was waiting for her and took the box from her as she neared the truck. The morning air was a bit chilled but as the sun rose more it warmed. He put the box into the back with the multitude of bags. She opened the door and threw her bag up onto the seat. She climbed up into the truck as he scurried off to lock the front door again, not knowing when anyone would be up for the day. He literally ran and jumped into the truck. She laughed at his energy. He started the truck and pulled out of the drive as she popped in a cd. The Monkees filled the cab with more sunshine than the real one still hiding beind clouds, pouting that it had to get up so early. He laughed at her choice and heartily sang right along with it. She joined him and together they enjoyed the morning eventhough their bodies were screaming out for more sleep. A couple of hours was just not enough, but they ignored it all and went on about their bussiness like it wasn't a hinderance. He was nearing the street where his childhood home sat when he passed a grocers and she sucked in a quick breath. "Oh Zac! Turn around... I need something at the store, I almost forgot!" She cried out quickly. He didn't hesitate and pulled into a parking lot to make a U-ie. He pulled back onto the street. "Are you even sure they are open? It's awfully early." He asked. She peered ahead of her, watching the lot. "I think they are, I saw cars and people." She said uncertainly. "Can't hurt to try." He shrugged. He pulled into the lot of the grocery store soon and looked about. "It looks open to me." He said needlessly as a little old lady pushed a cart out into the sun. "No duh." She teased childishly. He grinned with his laugh. "Come on... I'll even get something so you can have something more than cold cereal for breakfast." He said teasingly. "You were going to fix me a bowl of cereal for breakfast? Oh my, I feel special!" She teased back. He rolled his eyes and pulled her from the truck. Setting her on the ground he pushed the door shut behind him, following her toward the store. He noticed that same little old lady reaching for a large bag of dog food from the bottom of her cart. He quickly stepped up and fetched it out for her. Her smile wide in appreciation. He smiled back at her politely as he easily placed it into the trunk of her car. "Thank you young man! It's so nice to see someone of your generation can remember their manners and be a kind soul." She complimented. He grinned broadly at her as he took the rest of her groceries and placed them into the back of her car. "You're quite welcome. I'm more than happy to be of help. You just get someone to bring it in for you. You wouldn't want to bruise those lovely hands." He toned charmingly. She actually blushed. She was so flustered she dropped her keys. He casually picked them up for her, handing them back to her with a wink. "Thank you." She said in an unsteady voice as she edged toward the drivers side door. "Anytime." He said smoothly, toting away her cart back toward the store and joining a waiting Moirah. Her smile was one of bemusement. "You just can't help yourself can you?" She said as she turned to walk beside him into the store. "What?" He asked clueless. "Always a ladies man." She teased. "Oh man!" He groaned, rolling his eyes. They laughed together as he pushed the cart through the open door. "Oh yeah, you caught me. Please, please don't leave me... I promise I won't see her again. She meant nothing to me. Oh baby, baby please." He deadpanned. She roared with glee. "What am I going to do with you?!" She cried out. He stopped, turning to look at her. His brow arched and a smile so sly smeared over his lips. The dark twinkle in his eyes only accentuated it when he licked his lips teasingly. "I have a few ideas." He toned softly, his voice a sexy purr. She sucked in her breath. "I bet you do..." She caught her train of thought and snapped out of it. "But for now, I need to shop." She sighed, trying to convince herslef. He just smiled at her knowingly, then followed her down the aisle. "So what are we in here for exactly?" He asked, trying to change the mood they'd just been sucked into. She fished in her pocketbook for her list. "Damnit!" She cried exasperatingly. "What's the matter baby?" He cooed, siddling up next to her and draping an arm around her shoulder as he peered into her bag from above. "I've lost my list." She said in frusteration. She searched for it through the paraphenalia stufed into her tote. "What list?" He asked, trying to be of help but only serving to frusterate her more. She huffed exasperatedly stamping her tiny little foot and looking up to him. "My list for the party! What did you think I'd meant?!" She cried out. He pulled away from her, backing off and holding his hands out in peace offering. "Baby, I'm just trying to help." He defended himself. Her eyes softened and she sighed, holding her hand hand to her forehead. "I'm sorry. I shouldn't take it out on you. I guess I'm just short tempered today." She tried to appologize. He took her back into his arms, comforting her. "I know love, you're tired is all. I'm sorry I kept you out so late." He toned softly. She snickered. "I'm not." She said slyly, wrapping him up in joyful affection. He chuckled then remembered exactly where her list was. "Honey... promise you won't bite my head off?" He tested. She pushed away from him, looking up to his worried face. "What?" She tried. "I... I know where your list is." He said softly, fearing her temper. She sighed. "Where is it?" She asked, expecting the worst. "In my coat pocket... hanging on the stairs back at the house." He said, edging away from her. She groaned. "Oh god! What if your mother finds it? Everything will be ruined!" She cried. "No, no. Wait! I've got an idea..." He said hurriedly as he reached in his pocket and pulled out his cell phone. As he punched in the numbers he eyed her. She stood almost patiently, tapping her toe of her miniture foot, arms crossed over her middle. He put the phone to his ear and waited. "Hey... it's me. Did I wake you? ... Oh... well, can I ask a favor? It's realy small man. ... Thanks. ... Go downstairs and get my jacket off the banister... No, just throw it in my room. ... Thanks man. You're a life saver. ... Later." He pulled the phone from his ear and put it away. "Done." He said confidently. She breathed a sigh of relief. "Thank you. Now... I think I can remember what was on my list..." She said distractedly as she wandered away. He sighed and followed her pushing the cart along before him. She was picking over the produce as he stood impatiently and waited for her. He picked up a basket of berries and set them in the cart infront of him. They were deep red with ripeness and sparkled with moisture of haveing just been misted. His stomach rumbled and he gave in to temptation... one he knew he could handle. He took up the largest strawberry from the top of the container and breathed in it's sweetness. He was starving... he bit into the soft flesh, tearing off a large portion of it. Juice dribbled over his chin and he caught it with the heel of his hand. The freshness of the fruit bursting in his mouth and making his hunger grow. He pushed the remainder of the small treat into his mouth, ripping off the stem, he polished it off with relish. She had returned with a handfull of things, never noticing his sticky lips and walked away again. He pushed the cart ahead and followed, delving into the basket once more and feasting on another plump berry. She turned back around to the cart, several boquettes in hand. She shoved aside the basket of berries, not noticing the quickly growing pile of stems beside it. She was so distracted she hadn't even realized that she hadn't picked out any berries. She placed the flowers in the cart and turned back to her task. He followed her once more as she walked away, and he continued to enjoy the sweet fruits. She waited at the counter as the attendent weighed out several pounds of shrimp for her. The lady giving a good natured chuckle as she watched him from the corner of her eye. He saw her and winked as he lustily bit into another berry. Now Moirah spoke under her breath... putting the bags of shrimp into the cart and tugging it behind her, forgetting all together of her companion. He followed like a puppy, still reaching into the cart for his impromptu breakfast. She wandered down aisles, looking for the last of the things she needed for the day. Her mind going in a million different directions, none of them anywhere near him. They passed the dairy case and he reached out as they walked along, never stopping, he grabbed a carton of chocolate milk. He popped it open, chugging it as he walked along behind her. She counted off items in her head, using her fingers as prompts to jog her memory. He watched her with mirth, never letting her hear his laugh... though if he'd roared he doubted she would have noticed it. They neared the bakery counter and he reached out a hand to stop her as she pulled the cart along behind her. "Blueberry or raisin?" He asked when he'd gained her attention. "Huh?" Was all he recieved. He smiled at her. "Do you want blueberry or raisin bagels?" He clarified. "Oh!" She exclaimed, now knowing what he was asking. "Blueberry." She said, knowing that was what he would get for himself anyway. He nodded and trotted off. Now he had her attention. She watched him as he conversed with the guy behind the glass case, wiping his hands on his apron. As Zac pointed out what he wanted Moirah went round to the handle of the cart, laying her hand on it abscentmindedly. She chuckled when the guy handed him a bag of bagels and a large danish on a piece of waxed paper. "Want some?" He asked her with a full mouth. She giggled, shaking her head. "No thanks. You enjoy it." She said. He shrugged, throwing the bagels into the cart and walking along beside her. It was then that she noticed his previous repast. "Zac!" She exclaimed, stopping short. He stopped and turned back around to look at her, noticing that she'd found his not so secret stash. He just grinned at her, indulging in a rather large bite of his danish. She rolled her eyes and laughed. "Well at least make yourself useful... I forgot to pick up some butter." She said directing him toward the dairy aisle. "Six pounds... and only get butter!" She called after him as he was already sprinting down the aisle. She shook his carton of milk. "You still have plenty of milk to wash down that danish!" She called back to him. She heard him laugh as she turned the corner. She finnished with her shopping and he appeared in short time with what she'd asked, plus a tub of cream cheese. He dumped them all unceremoniously into the cart and hopped up onto the end like a little kid. She laughed and tilted sideways to try to see around his hulking mass to manuver the cart toward the front. Not an easy task for he was very large, very heavy, and leaned over so far to keep his balance that he was nearly in her face. Still, through the regails of laughter she somehow managed to steer teh cart toward the registers. He hopped off, a huge smile in place as he started to unload the cart. She handed him the refuse of his breakfast on the go and he smiled sheepishly at the older woman behind the register. She only smiled back at him and rang up the trash, taking it from the conveyer and tossing it into the rubbish barrel beneath her station. He grinned at her winningly, diving for his wallet in his back pocket. "Seventy two, sixy five." She droned out. He reached into his pocket for change. Comming up empty, he turned to Moirah. "Honey? You got a buck sixy five?" She luaghed out loud and shook her head. He just shrugged and waited for her as she reached into her tote. She handed him a five and he handed it to the waiting cashier along with the contents of his own wallet, save a dollar. He bagged the groceries and tossed them gently back into the cart, Moirah catching the flowers before he man-handled them as well. He chuckled as she held them protectively. He shoved the cart toward the exit and she followed. The outside door was sticking in the rug so she squeezed through, pulling it open and smoothing out the rug. He followed her to the parking lot, laughing when he gingerly rammed into her backside, making her jump up onto the cart. He started to run, making her hang on so she wouldn't fall off. She screamed out in playful laughter. "Stop it! You're gonna pitch me over the tar!" She cried out. He eased his pace and came to a stop not far from the truck. She was still laughing when she hopped off, reaching over to slap at his arm. He only stuck his tongue out at her and went on his way, only stopping long enough to place the bags into the back of the truck then streaking off again to return the cart. By the time he'd returned, she was already perched in her place in the truck. He grinned and slid in next to her. A turn of the key and once more the Monkees joined them on the way to the old house. Meanwhile, back at the ranch... The household of Hanson was stirring alive. But one member was already awake. Awake and working in the studio to keep the lonliness at bay. Diana traipsed downstairs in her comfy robe and fuzzy slippers, a yawn dancing over her as she passes the studio's open door. She hears the mournful soft strains of her son and hangs her head. She knows he's still working through some things, but her thoughts are interrupted as she's deciding to go down and speak with him. "Morning Mom." A deep voice greets her. She turns, Isaac in the door, keys in hand, a sweet smile on his face. Her tender nature extends toward him, her first born and first to leave the nest. "Morning dear." She tones softly. He closes the door and goes to her, hugging her against him. "Happy anniversary." He whispers over the top of her head. Her heart just melts. "Oh Isaac... thank you." He bends to her and she gives a motherly kiss on his forhead. Again a soft moan of a melody escaped the studio. "Tay working already?" He asked, straightening up and releasing his mother. She nodded sadly. "I'm afraid so." She added. They exchanged a knowing look, one of understanding. "I'll be back up when breakfast is ready." He said, heading for the door to see to the mending of his brothers heart. "I have to feed you? Correct me if I'm wrong, but didn't you move out to become independant?" She teased. He rolled his eyes. "I gave the cook the day off." He joked. She giggled and trotted off to the kitchen, leaving him behind to be nursemaid to his brother, he was good at it. Diana was scrambling eggs when a familiar pair of hands wandered over her body. An equally known set of lips alighting on her neck from behind. Her smile grew as she leaned back into tender comfort. "Morning my love. Happy anniversary." His voice caressed her ear. She took the pan from the flame and turned in his embrace, wrapping her arms about him tightly. She kissed him, sweetly, lovingly, drawing him down for it to deepen just as their love had over the years. She pulled away from him, her smile giddy and eyes glazed as she opened them slowly. "Happy anniversary dear." She returned. "Wow! If only every day were our anniversary! I know last night tuckered you out... but how can you be so full of energy so early in the damned morning?" He teased, patting her behind. She laughed. "Years of raising your children. I'm immune to anything and everything. Oblivious to the perils of daily living." She joked. He laughed, releasing her to get back to her chore of feeding the masses of loved ones waiting. He went to the fridge, standing with hip cocked as he searched it's contents for something... he just didn't know what. "Where are the kids? Aren't they usually walking in like zombies by now?" He remarked as he took out the jug of orange juice. She looked over her shoulder, tossing her braid out of her line of vision as she eyed him reaching for a glass. He turned around, noticing that she was checking out his ass. Still after all these years, it never failed to give him a thrill knowing that he still turned on his wife. She smirked at him. "Mac and the girls are dressing I suppose. I know Jess is awake because she had the phone glued to her ear already as I met her in the hall. Zac left a note on the fridge that he'd taken Moirah out for breakfast early." He eyed her suspiciously. "They came home... I even spoke to them last night." She assured him. He nodded, trusting his wifes grasp of the situation. He returned to setting out plates and peanut butter to feed the masses. She set the skillet of eggs aside and tossed him a loaf of bread as he neared the toaster. "Ike and Tay are in the studio." She finnished the list of their offspring. He looked at her as he started making the required mountain of toast. "I know... Ike is down there now working it out with him." She sighed. "I just don't know what else to do with him Walker. He can't go on like this for much longer. It's breaking my heart to see him so torn up about it." Her voice held a small quaiver he knew signaled his wifes reluctance to cry but still, feeling helpless it was usually inevitable. He left the toaster to itself and hurried to her. "It'll be ok." He said softly as he wrapped her up in his comforting arms. She leaned against him, her sniffles minute. "He's a grown man. He's going to have to learn to deal with life as it's handed to him. He's strong, he'll get through this." He toned softly, the rumble of his deep voice comforting her in her heartache. Nodding against his chest she breathed heavy. "I know... I just wished I could take away all the hurts." Her voice soft and meloncholy. He knew... she had always felt that way with each of their children, as had he. "He knew it was comming. He just didn't expect it quite so soon I think. It took him aback and knocked him for a loop. It did with all of us, but he's so sensitive... it's what makes him special... the boy is all soul." Walker mused. His wife pulled out of his arms, looking up to him in near shock. "What?" He cried. "Can't a man think about his children lovingly?" He toned. She blinked, shaking her head a bit. "Certainly... it's just, it's been years since I've heard you speak like that." She said softly, her eyes tender and loving as she drank in his slightly embarrassed state. He grinned down at her sheepishly. "I like it." She purred, her eyes growing deep and dark. He grinned at her wider when she pulled him hard against her body. He laughingly growled at her. "Oh gawd! Their at it again!" They both turned to find Jessica in the door, phone to her ear as per usual. Her grin was loving her tone teasing. "Get a room." She said flatly, then turned to leave the kitchen, her smile left behind. They didn't even have the heart to reprimand her about her language. It was increasingly obvious that she was more a woman these days. It was hard to draw the line between child and adult. She was teetering on the edge of that now. Breakfast passed like every other morning in the household. Walker and Diana stood in the kitchen, quietly talking over the last of their coffee. "I think it best if we just stayed home this year." Diana said softly. Her husband gave her a look and she sighed. "So I'm over protective. Just do this for me, please?" She pleaded. He sighed, putting his cup on the counter. "If it will make you feel better, you know I will. I'd do anything for you." He said gently, pulling her to him. Isaac was standing on the other side of the door and heard the whole exchange. This would ruin all of their best laid plans. He couldn't let them stay in. Every year they had gone out for their anniversary and he'd been counting on that when he and his brothers and sisters had plotted out the surprize for them. He entered the kitchen, casually pouring himself another cup of coffee as his mind raced, trying to come up with something, anything that would get him out of the bind. A glimmer of an idea niggled at him and he ran with it. He turned, cup in hand, and leaned against the sink. He lay eyes on his parents, still clad in a tender embrace, nothing new to him. They were always affectionate. His deep voice softly spilled out. "So where are you going this year?" He asked in an off handed way. His mother turned within the clutches of his fathers arms. She held his eyes for a moment and took a deep breath. She turned all the way around and faced him, his fathers hands upon her shoulders in comfort and support. He knew that stance, knew it well with them. "Actually dear, we won't be needing you to watch the younger ones this year." She started. He shrugged. "I didn't think so. Tay's here, so's Zac and Jess. I think between the three of them they can control the youngest three. Besides, El and I've made plans for the evening." He spun out his yarn, pleased with his 'jonny on the spot' quick thinking. "We've decided to stay home this year." His father filled in. That was Isaac's cue, the words he was waiting to hear, hoping and wishing would be said. He poured out all of the meager acting abilities he'd aquired over the years he'd spent in the entertainment bussiness. This time it had to be good, it was for benifit of the most critical audience, his parents. He widened his eyes and made a show on having difficulty swallowing his coffee. He turned slightly, placing his cup next to his fathers. "What?!" He squeeked out. He shook his head in disbelief as his father gently repeated his statement. "We've decided to stay home..." "I heard that... but why?" He hurried out. His mother avoided his eyes and toned softly. "We just think the family should be together." Her eyes finding his then, he almost choked for real from the hurt he saw in them. "Mother." He said forcefully, standing to his full height and taking command of the room. "I know what this is all about and I won't stand for it. Taylor is a grown man. Let him lick his wounded pride yes, but you can't coddle him." His eyes were dark and his charisma alone thickened the air in the room. She opened her mouth in protest and he closed his eyes, his head turning slightly as he raised a hand to stop her. She stopped dead in time. He eyed her with a steely look. "I won't hear of it. You are going out tonight. You just leave it to me. I'll arrange everything, let it be your anniversary gift from El and I." He toned sharply to her. She merely nodded in aquiescence. "Good. It's settled then. I'll have a driver pick you up and I'll let you know when you need to get ready to go." He spoke with athority. He gave a slight nod and left the room and his parents behind as he hurried for the studio to let Tay in on the new twist of plans. Everyone needed to know to make this work now. Back in the kitchen Diana snapped out of her daze. She turned to her husband and looked up to him. "What just happened here? How did he do that? We just had a number pulled on us didn't we?" She pondered aloud. He chuckled. "That we did Mother, then again, how do you think the boy got where he is today?" "Man Walker, that one is a man through and through." She informed him. He looked over his shoulder at the empty space his son had recently vacated. "He most certainly is." He said softly to himself. Isaac bolted into the room and scared Taylor half to death in his hurry. "Geez man, give a guy a heart attack why don't ya?" He whined. "Sorry Tay. Listen..." He hissed, leaning in toward his brother. Now Tay realized there was a reason behind his cloak and dagger act. He pressed forward to shorten the distance. "I gotta have you start to spread the word about the new plan to get Mom and Dad over there later... don't ask now, just listen." He popped off as he noticed Tay open his mouth. Tay only nodded, waiting to be filled in. In minutes Isaac had relayed all the needed information and Tay was out the door to spread the conspiracy through the ranks while Isaac stayed behind making a few phonecalls. Upstairs a still slightly bewildered Diana answers the door a while later. "Elouise! What a surprize dear, what are you doing here? Don't you have classes today?" Diana gushed out. Elouise put on her best mask and glided through the rehearsed little scenerio. "I did. They were canceled though. One of my professors is sick and the other one had something come up and dismissed us early." She beamed, proud of herself for the white lie she told so smoothly. "Well no matter the reason it's always nice to see you dear." Diana toned, escorting the woman into the livingroom. Walker stuck his head out of the study at the sound of voices. His grin was wide as he hurried through the room. He swept her up in a large sized hug. "El! What are you doing here my lovely?" He querried joyfully. "She's here to see me. So get your paws off her." Came a voice from behind them. He laughed and released her with a final hug, gently pushing her toward his son who stood in the doorway. Isaac joined the laughter with the rest of the room and strode toward her, wrapping her in an embrace and placing a peck of a kiss on her mouth in hello. El returned it then turned to stand beside him, his arm draped around her waist. She grinned over at Walker, reaching out to give his cheek a pinch playfully. "Stop flirting with my father woman." He teased. They all laughed again. "Actually, I came to beg a favor." El said, looking briefly over at Isaac, seeking his go ahead. He slightly nodded and she continued. "I was wondering... I know it's an imposition and all, but if you're not schooling the little ones... could I borrow them?" She pushed out all in one breath. Diana looked at her oddly for a moment. Her eyes darting to her husband. She knew something was up but she just didn't know what. She just had that sixth sense about when her children were trying to pull a fast one on her. Her spider sense was going haywire... but she couldn't ferret out an answer as to why. "Whatever for dear?" She asked sweetly. She caught the brief moment of unsureness in El's face but didn't let on. "I'd like to have them come down to the shop for a bit. I'm trying to pull together this project, and I need an assortment of different sized models. I promise I'll feed them and everything! I'll have them back long before bedtime too." She added. Diana looked pointedly at her husband. He just shrugged back at her. She sighed. "Well... I suppose so if it will help you out with your work." She gave in. El rushed toward her, kissing her cheek affectionately as she hugged her shoulders. "Oh thank you! I just know they will be perfect for what I need." She layed it on thick. Diana patter her back. "You're welcome dear. You know we'd do anything to help you." She toned. "I'll go round up the troops." El said, jokingly saluting Walker. He snapped to attention and returned it with a broad smile. El grabbed Ike's hand. "Come on honey, you can help me get their things together for the day before you go back down to the studio." She ordered. He let himself be tugged away, a look over his shoulder to his parents. His goofy love soaked grin making both of them laugh as they watched them head up the stairs. El regrouped the children and had everything pulled together with the help of Ike in no time flat. Taylor was in Zoe's room as the little girl dressed her feet. El entered the room, a quiet conspiritorial hush prevaded. "Zoe, you almost ready?" She said. The girl looked up from her place on the floor, watching as her big brother tied her sneakers. She nodded to the woman. "Almost. Tay got my clothes out for me and I put all my other stuff in my Barbie bag." She said proudly. "Other stuff?" She questioned as Tay rose from the floor. He leaned down to give his sister a hand. "She insisted on packing toys..." He shrugged with a grin. "Oh! I see. Well of course we need toys today huh Zoe?" She toned, reaching her hand out to the girl. Zoe gave her a beaming smile, hurring to her to take her hand. Tay chuckled softly as he handed El the Barbie back pack. "Ya'll have fun. I'll see you later on." He said as he followed them out of the girls room, a tiny outfit laid over his arm and shoes in his hand. "We certainly will." El replied heading for the stairs. Tay quickly darted into Jess's room and shortly came back sans the little girl clothes. Ike met him at the head of the stairs as he headed for Jess's room on his way from Mac's. "Got Zoe's stuff all together?" He asked his brother. Tay nodded and headed down the stairs. Ike trotted off to Jess's room and knocked on the door. "You descent?" He called softly. The door opened and he was met with his sisters sarcastic rolling eyes, her phone surgicaly attatched to her head. He chuckled. Sisters... somethings never changed. He slipped into the room past her and she closed the door behind him. Downstairs, a small group had gathered in the kitchen. "You mind El now, behave and don't give her any trouble. Remember, she wanted to take you because she needs help. You are there to do something nice for her, don't forget your manners." Diana rattled of the usual motherly speech as she assembled her brood to put into the care of someone else's hands for the day. She zipped Zoe's jakcet up and handed Mac a bag of cookies and juice boxes. Avie stared out the window distractedly, hitching her knapsack over her shoulder a bit more. El stood by, a smile on her face. She really did love this family. She thought of them in the same way she did her own. Ike entered the room, putting his hands around her waist as he pulled her against him from behind. They leaned on the counter, waiting for the last of the team to arrive. Diana stood up, turning around to survey the scene. "I think that's everything except for Jess. Where is that girl?" She sighed. She was about to head up the stairs to see what was holding her up when Ike caught wind of her intentions. He stepped infront of her quickly, nearly knocking El over as he tried to get between his mother and the door. "She's almost ready. I'll go and get her to hurry." He said, leaving behind the rest as he took off. He met her sneaking back in the front door. "What took you so long?" He whispered harshly. "I forgot which key was for the trunk." She whispered back. "Well Mom almost went after you." He hissed back. Her eyes widened a bit and she pushed past him to hurry into the kitchen. "I'm ready!" She called out. "Finally!" An exasperated and impatient Mac quipped. She shot him a look and he rolled his eyes at her. "Behave you two." Diana warned. "Sorry Mom." They toned in unison. "Well... now if we are all set..." El said, hoisting Zoe's pink bag over her shoulder and grasping the young ones hand. "Thank you again Diana. I'll see you later. Don't worry about dinner. I'll see to it that they have something good for them. We'll probably be back not long after that hour anyway." She informed the mother of the children she was stealing. Diana nodded. "That's fine dear. If they give you any trouble don't hesitate to call and Walker or I will come and get them." She offered. "I hardly think that will be needed." She smiled genuinely. Diana returned it and walked otu the door with her. They got all of the children packed into the car with their daily distractions and Ike came trotting out to the drive. "Bye honey." He said sweetly, kissing her lovingly before she climbed into the car herself. "Bye yourself. Now get back to work." She scolded playfully, pushing at his chest. "Yes dear." He said comicly. He stepped back and slung his arm around his mother as they stood together in the drive and watched her pull out. Waving they watched her car disappear. He squeezed his mothers shoulders. "I suppose you'd better start getting ready to go out. Now you can take that hour long bubble bath you've been needing for... oh twenty years or so?" He said. She laughed, hugging his waist as they walked back to the door. Elouise pulled into the yard next to Zac's truck. She turned around eyeing the backseat filled with munchkins. "Remember. We aren't going to be here for very long so don't run off." She said in all seriousness. The three nodded and she smiled at them. "Good enough. Now go and play." She gave them permission and they bolted from the car gleefully. She and Jess just laughed and climbed out of the car behind them, heading for the house. Jess unlocked the door. "We're here!" She called out over the music coming from the kitchen. A long haired blonde head popped through the doorway and looked at them. A huge grin growing over the face before it was followed by a body. Zac walked up to El, hugging her affectionately. "Any trouble?" He asked. She shook her head as he escorted them to the kitchen. "Ike called you right?" She asked. "Yup." He informed her. "Hey!" She called out to Moirah's back. She turned and smiled widely at the two new arrivals. "Oh good! Fresh troops!" Moirah joked. They all laughed as they settled into comfortable places around the room. "So what can we do to help?" El asked. Moirah pondered for a moment. "Well, Virginia and I have things pretty much covered here in the kitchen. But someone still needs to get everything from the garage to take over and start putting up." She said eyeing Zac. "I'm on it." He said, half way out the door. She nodded to herself. A timer bell sounded and she turned from them to the oven. She hauled out a huge sheet of rolls and shoved them onto the table. Virginia entered the room. "Oh hi!" She said in passing as she headed to the table to resume the task she'd left. El and Jess greeted her with smiles and their own 'Hi's!' Moirah pulled the oven rack out and lifted a lid of a roasting pan. She poked at the contents, then took up a ladle to baste it. "That smells delicious!" Jess groaned. Moirah smiled at her over her shoulder as she shoved it back into the oven. "Try keeping your brother out of it!" She joked. They all laughed. They knew all about Zac's huge appetite. Moirah went to the fridge and pulled out another tray of rolls and slid them into the oven. "So what's left?" El asked curiously. Moirah shut the oven and washed her hands at the sink. She faced them as she dried them on the towel she had tossed over her shoulder. "Well... I've got one pan of roast done. The turkeys Virginia did last night." She eyed the woman with a friendly smile as she caught her eyes. "The rolls will be done with this last batch. Ummm... all of the vegetables have been tossed for the salads already and are chilling." She looked over at Virginia again. "And the butter is being cut into pats now..." She recieved a smile once more. "The pans of dutchess potatoes are already done, they just need to be heated when we get to the hall. All of the table ware is packed and ready, even the ingreedients for the punch." She pointed to a stack of boxes next to the back door. "And... I've finnished most of the h'ourderves, they just need to be fussed with at the hall, but I'll tend to that later on." She finnished. "What about the cake? Can we see it?" Jess asked excitedly. Moirah smiled at her affectionately. "You sure can. Just a sec." She gave back, holding up her finger. She took a plate from Virgina and put it into the fridge, wiped her hands once more and threw her towel on the back of a chair. "Hand me that white box on top please." She directed to Virginia. The woman nodded and did so. Moirah led the other three women out of the kitchen. Zac was just comming back in from the drive. "That's everything." He informed them. "Thank you dear." She said, reaching up to kiss his cheek. He returned her peck, then shoved his hand in hers and joined them on their way. She led them to the old room his mother had used for schooling and sewing and such. There in the center of the room was a table, draped in a white cloth and upon it a large array of cakes. She smiled at Jess's confused face. "I'll assemble it there, I just need to have it in pieces to travel with." She cleared for the girl. Jess nodded as Moirah handed Zac the white box she'd been carring. He grinned. He knew what was comming for he himself had begged her to show him. She was indulgent and he loved that about her. For a moment she turned her back to the group and started tinkering with the assorted pieces. "This is good, wait till you see it Jess." Zac said like a kid at christmas. His grin gleeful. "I think the little ones would like to see it too." Virginia said in thoughtfulness. "Yeah, go and get 'em would you?" He begged. She smiled at him. She was there earlier when Moirah had preformed her magic for him. She knew his enthusiasm was warrented and knew the children would be just as thrilled as he was. She stepped from the room and left Moirah to her work. Jess stepped to the side of the room and watched her as Moirah worked. Shortly the rest of the troupe had come in, expectantly awaiting the promised event. Zac grinned as he watched their eyes widen a bit at a time. He supposed his had been the same that morning. Moirah turned to him. "Would you like to do the honors?" She asked him pointedly looking at the box and back to him. He almost giggled and nodded his head giddily. He took her place infront of the table and gingerly took out the delicate object from the white box. He reached up and placed it in it's place of honor atop the tower of confection. Then he stepped back, wrapping his arm proudly around Moirah as he surveyed the occupants of the room. "Is that...?" Jess asked, looking on with wonder. He nodded positively. "It is. The same one from their wedding cake. I stole it out of their room and she never even caught me." He said proudly. "Wow!" El said in awe as she looked over the tiers of cake and pillars. "That's a lot of cake!" Mac sighed. They laughed. "What kind of cake is it?" Zoe piped up. "Chocolate and yellow. Zac told me you didn't like chocolate cake." She smiled at the girl. Zac pecked Moirah's cheek and slipped out of the room to fetch the last of the supplies from the kitchen to load into his truck. Avie walked around the table looking over the cake. "What's this?" She questioned pointing to one of the cakes that were bridged to the ensemble by a ribbon bow with long tails. "A satelite cake." Moirah answered. "No, I meant this." She stated, pointing to a small gold bead in the center of an ivory icing bloom. "Oh, that's a sugar bead. It's just sugar with gold leaf over it." She clarified. "Cool!" The girl cried. El sounded off as the voice of reason. "Alright, let's let Moirah get back to her work and head out to get to work ourselves." A few moans and groans were sounded off. Zac piped up. "Hey! None of that now. Moirah was nice enough to lend us a hand to do this for Mom and Dad. The least you can do is lend her a hand with the work load she's carring for you. Now... who want's to ride with me?" He called out. "ME!" An excited Mac rang out. Zac laughed. "Ok, you can ride with me. El you and the girls can follow me over to the hall and we can get to work." He dictated. El nodded in agreement and corraled the girls out the door towards the car. "Later Moirah!" She called back as Moirah was once more taking apart the cake in readyness for it's trip. "Bye girls!" She called back over her shoulder. Zac wrapped his arms around her from behind, laying kisses on her neck. She smiled and stopped her work to turn around and say good bye to him properly. She returned his kiss only more passionately. He stood up when he pulled away from her lips. "I love you." He said softly. "I love you too." She whispered against his lips as he bent for another peck. He was yanked away from her and stumbled backward. She laughed at his surprized face and the force that was hauling him toward the door. Zac looked behind himself and laughed too. Mac had a hold of Zac's belt and was tugging him toward the door with all his strength. "Ok ok! I get the hint!" He laughed out. Mac let go, his devious grin endearing. Zac looked back to Moirah. "I guess that means I gotta haul ass." He shrugged good naturedly. She nodded. "I'll see you later. I'll call you when I'm ready for you to come and pick me up." She laughed as Mac started tugging at his belt again playfully. Zac lunged at his little brother, picking him up and throwing him up over his shoulder. Mac laughed loudly and waved to Moirah as Zac headed out the door. "Bye baby!" Zac called and slammed the door. She heard him yell in the driveway as she was still disassembling the cake. "Who wants McDonalds for lunch?!" She laughed at the riotous reception he got. "I'll take that as a yes... first, I gotta stop at the ATM." He joked as he tossed his younger brother into the truck like a sack of potatoes. In no time at all they had vacated the yard and nothing was left of noise in the house but the soft music in the kitchen and the echos of years of childrens merryment. Isaac hurried down to the studio accosting Tay with quick words. "Kids are gone and Zac's got that under control. Here's the story... They had a flat so they were gonna be late comming back. He called and I told him to take the rest of the day off and spend it with Moirah. Mom's such a romantic sap she'll buy it if she asks." Ike sucked in a breath after that long spiel. Tay nodded, setting the lie in his head in accordance with the new plans. "Did you get Zac's clothes?" He asked his older brother with a hush. Ike looked toward the door. "I put them in the trunk of your car. Virginia said that Jennifer wasn't there yet but you should drop them off there cause Zac still had to go back to the house to get her and take the cake over." Tay looked at his watch. "What time am I supposed to head out? Did you see Dad yet?" He added his after thought. Isaac looked at his own watch. "I told Dad that we were going to Eddies later on. He didn't even bat an eye. Give it about a half hour more, then go over to the house. See if Moirah needs anything before you and Jennifer come over to the hall. I'm sure there's plenty left to do over there. El, Jess and Zac can't have gotten much done with the ankle biters bugg'n 'em." Ike laughed. Tay joined him and shook his head. "Better them than us." He joked. Ike grinned and slaped his brothers shoulder then got up to take his old cherry gibson out. Taylor watched him as he sat at the keys. Ike plugged her into the amp, throwing his body onto the comfy couch as he cradled his baby. Lost in his own world a soft melody sizzled off the strings. His brothers long fingers gracefully carressed the frets. He shook his head. Some people were just made to play guitar. True he himself could play, but never as well as his big brother. It was one of the things he was envious about Ike. He listened to the song forming and turned to pick out some of the melody, adding to it and filling it in. Ike tossed him a grin from across the room as they played together. It was almost like old times... Tay's eyes wandered to the corner of the room, his eyes aching to witness that bulky form sitting astride the drum throne. Then it would feel complete. The pain in his hand began to throb, a reminder to him of his indisgressions. He shook his head and took his fingers from the ivories, rubbing at the digits and massaging his knuckles. "Still hurting?" Ike's gentle voice said from across the room. Tay looked up, his eyes falling into those warm brown orbs of comfort. Such simple words... yet they held so many meanings. He sighed. "Some... but it's getting better. I suppose it's just going to take some time." He responded. Ike nodded, the loving warm smile extending to his brothers heart. Tay smiled back. Grateful for the reminder that he was still loved and so many people cared about him... the real him. The man on the inside. Isaac watched from the livingroom window as Taylor's car disappeared. He sighed to himself. Today was crazy and he was sure it was just going to get even more so. A quiet smile crept up on him. His family was something else. Such an elaborate ruse was constructed, all in the name of love. He knew that was the glue in his family. And it made him glad to be so lucky. He looked at his watch. He knew he didn't have much time to spare after he got them out the door. He felt a bit guilty that he wasn't there to help out in getting things ready, but he also knew it was his responsibility to see his parents out the door for the evening. He chuckled a bit. Usually every year he babysat the younger kids so his parents could go out on their anniversary. What a strange twist of fate this was... now he was babysitting his parents while all of the kids were out of the house because of his parents anniversary. Shaking his head with a smile he trotted off to the kitchen. Pouring himself a cup of coffee he spoke over his shoulder. "So, is Mom getting ready?" He turned then and faced his father. His father looked up from his seat at the table, downing his paper. "I think so, though I don't know why she would be getting ready so early..." Walker mused. Isaac smiled. "Because she's a woman." He shrugged. They laughed together a bit. The friendly tone inviting in the room. Walker smiled a bit more wistfully then and Isaac knew he was thinking of something. On occasion his father got sappy, and it seemed he was now headed that way again. He really didn't mind. He was like that often enough himself. He supposed that was where he'd gotten it from. "Your Mother really appreciates the way you stepped in and handled things this morning. I was having a hard time this morning trying to convince her that everything would work out. I just wanted to thank you Ike. You put your Mother's mind at ease, and mine." Walker was serious in tone and loving in look. Isaac was grinning madly, loving the attention. "I know how special it is to have some time alone once in a while Dad." Isaac shrugged, his smile widening at the thought of El. Walker picked up on that and smiled bigger himself. "She's a wonderful woman son. Your Mother and I adore her, love her as one of our own. I hope the two of you can be as happy as we've been." Walker toned gently. Isaac's heart squeezed. He loved El so much, and it made him so happy to have his family care for her. Having his father say it outright, well that was almost more joy than he could stand. He set his cup down then steped over to his father. He hugged him. Not like a man greeting another man. Not like a stiff forced gesture. He hugged him like a son does his father, with love and affection, fierce admiration driving it's strength. "That means a lot to me Dad." He said softly. Walker patted his son's shoulder. "Well you mean a lot to us son." His father returned. Isaac stood again. Looking down into dark eyes that he had looked up to all of his life. "I suppose you should get ready soon youself. I'll let you know when the driver gets here before I take off for Eddies." His tone friendly and casual, though inside he was jumping with energy. His father nodded, settling back in to take the rare quiet time and read his paper. "I suppose I will soon enough. I'm sure your Mother has my clothes all laid out for me she is looking forward to tonight so much." He said with a chuckle. Isaac joined him. "Well she should. It's a special day and she deserves to celebrate it in the best way possible." He said firmly. His father gave him another smile, one full of pride and love. Isaac basked in the glow of it. Knowing his parents appreciated his efforts now was a wonderful feeling. He knew it would be spread ten fold later on that evening, and he was anticipating it with relish. He couldn't wait to see their faces when they were going to be greeted by the event they had planned out. Oh the things love made you do. He grinned to himself and took up his cup, left the room and his father to enjoy his alloted quiet moment. He strolled back into the livingroom and set his cup on the coffee table. He picked up his quitar and set it gently on his knee. Fingers skimmed over the strings like a lover and the soft tones soothed his soul. He strummed away the fleeting time. Waiting for that moment when he'd see his parents out the door, and he would go to join the rest of the family to await their arrival to what was going to be a memorable night in the collective of fond memories. He eased his car into the yard, steeling his resolve within himself. After shutting off the engine he sat for a moment collecting his strength. With a sigh he hauled his body from the vehicle. He knew he had to face it. And for the sake of his brother, he'd do it even though it was still a stinging wound. He unlocked the door, letting himself in quietly. He could hear soft music comming from the kitchen, a sweet voice mixing with it in bits and pieces as if it were distracted. He stood in the doorway, watching the tiny sway of the tiny body, her brogue slidding off her tongue in dallops. He had to smile. Even through the pain, he now realized that it wasn't the woman that hurt him, only the situation. He pushed it aside and enjoyed the moment for what it was. It was his chance to get to see a bit more of her, unguarded and easy. Free from worries and tensions. Though he couldn't see her face, for her back was turned to him, he knew she was smiling. It was just so evident in her mannor and her song. Her hands were sure in action as they reached out to the side, she never looked away from what she was working on. Blindly she would pick up a stem from the pile of blooms and keep on working. She reached for yet another and he decided it was time he let her know he was there. He cleared his throat softly, not wanting to frighten her. She turned instantly, eyes wide and smile slipping off her face, only for a moment before it was replaced. "Taylor! You startled me." She giggled. He gave her a warm smile. She accepted it in gratefullness. "Sorry." He shrugged. "Quite alright." She toned, turning back around to continue with her work. He stepped further into the kitchen, comming around the side of her to lean on the counter and find out what she was up to. He watched her for a moment before he spoke again. "That's very pretty." He complimented. She looked up briefly, a grin meeting his eyes. "Thank you. Zac told me your Mother's favorites were yellow roses." She explained as she stripped a stem and tucked it against the others. He nodded. "They are, and I know she will love it." He said in reference to the arrangement she was putting together. "I hope she does. She deserves so much more. It's a small thing to help make their day one to remember. She's such a lovely woman. And I adore your Father as well." She smiled as she worked. He did too. "I'm sure they are both going to appreciate it." He said, then lay a hand over hers to still if for a moment, gaining her attention. She looked up to him, question in her eyes. His face was appologetic but careing. "And I know they will appreciate your efforts as well. They care a great deal for you already." He said softly. Her lip quivered with her smile. She gripped at his hand tenderly. "And I care for all of you as well." She said with earnestness. He smiled back at her winningly. "I do hope you and Zac are happy together. I know he deserves a wonderful woman like you." His voice sincere. She tugged him to her and hugged him with suddeness. He grinned at her impulsive nature and hugged her back as he heard her voice, muffled by his chest. "That means so much to me to hear you say that Taylor." She squeezed him, letting him know how much she meant what she said. He pulled her away, looking down at her at arms length. She had happy tears pooling in the corner of her eye and he grinned. "Tay. Please, call me Tay. All of my friends do." He said, the meaning of his statement not lost on her. She beamed winningly up at him. "Very well then Tay." She tried out his monicker. "I do believe there is a wonderful woman upstairs dressing who has been waiting on your arrival." She smiled. He grinned. "She's here?" He asked. Moirah nodded, going back to her task. "She is. She'll be down in a minute, she was just changing into something nice for the evening." She informed him. He grinned, knowing that Zac must have told her that he and Jennifer were using tonite as a date. "Well, Zac's clothes are in the car, and I've still got to change myself. Is there anything you need me to do to help out before we head over to the hall?" He asked sweetly. She nodded. "Most definately." She said. She looked up from her work for a moment to catch his eyes. "Ike was supposed to go to the liquer store to pick up our order. But since he's otherwise occupied, do you think Jennifer would mind? Would you do that for me? Please?" She asked. He nodded his head reassuringly. "Not a problem. Glad to help out. I'm sure Jenn won't mind at all." He said soothingly. "Jenn won't mind what?" Came a voice from the door. They both turned around to the owner and smiled. Jenn was in the doorway, shoes in hand as she slipped her earrings in. Taylor went to her, placing a small peck on her cheek. "Hey." He said softly with a warm smile. She smiled up at him. "Hey yourself." She returned. He pulled a chair out for her and she accepted it gratefully as she bent to put on her shoes. "Would you mind if we went over to the liquer store to pick up our order for the party?" He asked gently. She looked up to him, still fussing with her shoes. "Of course not. Glad to help out." She toned. Moirah smiled and said over her shoulder. "As if you haven't already done enough." She complimented. Jenn smiled back at her, appreciating the gesture. She liked Moirah. Taylor clapped his hands together, rubbing them. "Right! I'll just run out to the car and get my stuff and Zac's then we can head off." He said with a touch of excitement. He grinned once more at the two women and turned to head for the door. "Be right back." He called over his shoulder. Moirah chuckled when he was gone. "He's such a dear." She sighed. Jenn stood in the spot Tay had been taking up earlier and watched the other woman work. Her smile wide. "He certainly is." She said with her own sigh. Moirah eyed her with a grin, the twinkle in her eye laced with mischief. "You two had better behave. We would like the drinks to arrive long before the guests of honor do." She teaseingly laughed. "Oh! You! It's our first date, I don't think you have to worry about that." Jenn laughed exasperatingly. "I dunno... seems to me those Hanson men are fast movers." She joked. "I suppose that's just because they know what they want and go after it." Jenn said. Moirah giggled and grinned at her again. Jenn joined her laugher, her face a bit pink realizing she had put her foot in her mouth. She lightly slapped Moirah's shoulder. "You know what I mean!" She cried. The two women laughed. They heard Tay come back in and tromp up the stairs. Jenn watched as Moirah placed the finnished arrangement on another counter. "Anything else that needs to go to the hall?" Jenn asked as she watched Moirah clean up the mess left behind. Moirah scrubbed at the counter. "I suppose you can take the things stacked on the table. Just put them into the kitchen at the hall. Virginia knows what to do with them and I'll be over shortly." She told her indicating the foil covered pans on the table. Jenn nodded. "So, what's left to do?" She asked. Moirah washed her hands and turned around as she dried them. "Well, other than packing up the cake and calling Zac... I do believe I'm done here." She stated with a nod. Jenn went to her, offering her a small friendly hug. "You've done so much. I'm glad Zac has you, he seems to be in a constant state of joy when you're around." She said softly. Moirah hugged her back. "Thank you. He makes me just as happy too." She said gently. The two women pulled apart and smiled at each other. It was a new friendship, but one that had potential of lasting. Tay came bounding down the stairs noisily and popped back into the kitchen. He was stunningly gorgeous, as he usually was even when he wasn't trying. Moirah shot Jenn a look and they grinned at each other secretively. Tay was oblivious. "Are we ready?" He asked. Jenn stepped over to the table and began handing him pan after pan off the table. He laughed. "I'm such a pack horse." Jenn chuckled and tossed one more on top. Moirah took up a few and Jenn grabbed the last of them, leading them from the room and out the door. She hurried ahead after grabbing Taylors keys from his fingers where they dangled. Opening the door she steppe back and let Tay load the food into the car, then Moirah followed. Jenn placed the last of it in and stepped back. Taylor shut the door and turned to the women. "That everything?" He asked. Moirah nodded. "Yes thank you. The order is under the name Hanson and the account has already been settled. All you need to do is ask the clerk and take it over to the hall. I suppose you can fit a whole keg in your trunk?" She asked eyeing the space. He nodded. "I think so." He affirmed. "Ok, there's also a few cases of champange and an assortment of hard liquer I had them pack into a case. That's every thing." She shrugged, thinking of nothing more she needed to tell them. "Ok then." He stated with finality. Jenn and Moirah hugged briefly. "See you over there in a bit." Jenn said. Moirah nodded, watching as Tay escorted her to the passengers door and opened it for her, offering her a hand in. She settled into the seat and he smiled down at her, closed the door and jogged back around to the other side. He held his hands out wide and Moirah smiled up at him, closing the gap for the hug he'd offered. "I'm glad we talked Tay. I don't like it when the people I care about are hurting." She said. He squeezed her and sighed. "Me too. It's starting to feel better, and I think you have a lot to do with that. You're a wonderful person. I'm glad I'm getting to know you." He told her. She stepped away from him. Her smile very warmming to his heart. He opened his door and hoisted a leg in. As he was about to fold into the car he looked back at her, a grin with miscief written all over it took her by surprize. "And by the way Moirah... you look really good in nothing but one of Zac's old T-shirts." He winked and got into the car, closing the door and heading off before she could respond to his declaration. Her face was nearly purple in her embarrassment for she realized exactly what he had meant. Apparently they were not alone this morning when she'd left Zac's bedroom. She smiled then, the scamp! She'd have to find a way to get him back, but she was glad he'd mentioned it with a smile. To her it made all the difference in the world. Shaking her head she went back in the house, softly closing the door they'd left open. She leaned against the dark cool wood of the portal. Her smile spreading and deepening as she remembered that morning... and the night before. Sighing she pushed herself off the door lost in her dream state. She wandered into the kitchen and breezed over to the phone. Leaning against the wall she held the reciever to her ear with her shoulder as she dialed the familiar number. Yanking open the fridge as she waited for the persistant ring to be answered. She pulled out a tangerine and a Dr. Pepper, placing them on the counter. "'lo?" She heard the deep voice. Her smile brightened and she took a tiny sigh before she answered. "Hey... it's me." She answered. "Hi baby!" He exclaimed. She giggled at his enthusiasm. "How's it going over there?" She asked, finding a slice of cheese and a package of sandwich meat. He took a deep breath and she heard him blow it out slowly. "Ok I suppose. We've got most of the stuff put up... I'm still setting up tables and chairs though. El's been working hard, even the kids are helping out. Jess has been really busy making the tables look nice. I can't believe how much you got done." He told her. She smiled as she opened the jar of mayo. "Well I never would have gotten any of it done if it weren't for Virginia and Jennifer. They were a great deal of help. And so was Jess when we went shopping for everything." She told him as she built her sandwich. "Well I know Mom and Dad are gonna be knocked out when they see what we've done." He said happily. "I'm sure they will dear." She replied, leaning on the counter, enjoying her first bites of her very late lunch. "Are you eatting?" He chuckled. She laughed then took a sip of her soda. "I didn't find time for lunch until now. I'm just gonna have a quick bite and run upstairs to change. The only thing I have left to do is pack up the cake and load the last things into the truck." She said around a mouthful. He laughed. "I'm not really sure of everything you just said... but I think it was somewhere around the lines of you're ready for me to come and get you." She took a drink to wash it down and laughed. Clearing her throat a bit she spoke clearly now. "Sorry about that. But that's exactly what I meant." She answered. He laughed again. "Ok, no problem. I'll be there quick enough. Leave me some hot water, I gotta take a quick shower too." He told her. She nodded though he couldn't see her. "Will do." She said shortly. "Oh, and honey?" He added. "Yeah?" She asked. "Do you think you could find me a razor? I'm starting to look like a hermit. Jess keeps calling me fuzz face." He joked. She laughed. "I'll see what I can do." She told him. "Thanks babe. I'll see you soon." He said softly. "Ok. Bye love." She returned. "I love you. Bye." He toned, then the line went quiet. She hung up the phone and peeled her tangerine. After wolfing down the last of her lunch she headed off to the hall, grabbed up her bag, and ran up the stairs. She took her shower, making it a quick one so he would have plenty of hot water when he took his. She wrapped a towel around herself and searched the cupboards for a hairdryer and a razor. She was out of luck about the hair dryer, but she only shrugged that off. She did however find a razor. A pretty pink one. She chuckled to herself. It would have to do for it was the only one she could locate. She did her best to dry her hair with the towel and brushed it out. She stood in the small room, the warm air filling up fragrantly when she spritzed on her perfume. She didn't take time to fuss. She slipped into her blouse and skirt quickly and threw on a light touch of makeup. She grabbed up her things and headed back down the stairs, laying her shoes on the floor and her jewelry on the hall table. She hurried off to the kitchen, washed her hands and lugged the boxes she needed to the waiting cake. She was quietly singing along to the dulcet tones of an Italian opera on the radio as she worked at getting the cake ready for transport when a pair of warm hands slid up under her shirt. She smiled, stopping her work and leaning back. "I didn't hear you come in." She said softly. Fingers tickled over her tummy and arms cinched tighter around her. Soft breathy voice in her ear and hard body supported her. "You smell wonderful." Her smile widened and she turned slowly. "Thank you." Then met his eyes. He kissed her with tenderness that was achingly pure. Pulling away from her lips and just the tip of his tongue brushed over her lower lip like a whisper. "You ready?" His tone still soft and his eyes even softer. She nodded, reluctantly releasing him and backing away a bit. "I'm almost done with the cake. The flowers are in the kitchen." She told him. His smile melted her. "Ok, I'll go and get those while you finnish up in here." He offered. "You'll have to put them in the cab, set them on the floor and I'll sit in the middle." She informed him. "There's a good reason to get you closer to me." He joked. She laughed softly with him as he headed for the kitchen. She heard the door close as she stacked up the last box of cake stuff. "Zac?" She called. "Yeah?" He answered, sticking his head through the doorway. "I'm all done. We can take it all out now." She informed him. He entered the room, a peck to her cheek as he bent to pick up the first of the boxes. "I already left the tailgate down." He said. She nodded and picked up a few things herself and followed him out the door. They lay the boxes on the bed of the truck, unstacking them so they wouldn't tumble about. They headed back to the house, hand in hand for the next load. They repeated the last step and he shut the tailgate. "I guess that's it. I won't be long." He promised, pecking her lips lightly. She looked up to him, stroking his cheek and running her fingers along his stubbly jaw. He bent to her once more and lay a near perfect kiss on her mouth, drawing a sigh from her. They smiled at each other and he pulled away. He turned, and jogged to the house. She followed behind at a slower pace. Closing the door softly when she entered. She stood at the mirror in the hall, slipping in her earrings and hitching her necklace behind her neck. "Honey?" His voice floated down. She looked to the top of the stairs as she began to fix her hair. He stood there stripped down to his boxers above her. "Is this the only razor you could find?" He asked, glaringly girly pink offence in hand, his face twisted in disgust. She laughed softly. "Well no." She answered. He looked hopefull. "There are three more just like it in the package I got it from." She said sardonicly. He rolled his eyes. "How drool." He spat comicly. She watched him stomp off, cursing under his breath. The only words she caught besides swears were, 'I can't believe I've gotta shave with my mother's razor!' She laughed to herself as she elaborately braided sections of her hair to weave into a fetching style. She was in the livingroom, eyes closed softly and feet curled up under her as she lay her head against the arm rest of the sofa. Soft classical music floated through the room making for a peaceful setting. He smiled and squatted down infront of her. He traced the contours of her face with his outstretched fingertip, comming to rest on her deeply hued painted lips. His heart danced at her beauty. He hated to wake her, knowing that she wasn't used to going with lack of sleep, but it was getting late and they really had to head out to the hall to put on the finnishing touches before the guests started to arrive. He leaned forward, kissing her forehead. "Love..." He whispered against her smooth skin. She stirred, vibrant eyes peering up at him as he leaned back to look into her face. Her smile was quick and endearing. She stretched as she sat up. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to fall asleep." She appologized. He smiled back at her, raising up off his haunches. "Understandable. You've worked hard and were up late." He soothed. She nodded sleepily, taking the hand he offered. She rose from the sofa and followed him as he strode over to the stereo to turn it off. The house fell in silence, an odd sound he couldn't associate with the surroundings. He led her to the hall and waited for her to slip into her shoes. He bent for her bags, handing her purse to her. She took it, never letting loose his hand. She followed him out the door, holding the bags as he locked it. He turned back to her, taking the bags again, and her hand. They walked to the truck in silence, listening to the suburban songs surrounding them. He put her bags in the back, save one. She opened the door, letting him place her camera bag on the seat. He gave her a hand up, his other hand lovingly carressing her lower back as she slipped into the truck. She settled into the seat, slipping in a cd in habit. He got in beside her, a quick look to her. One filled with love and adoration. He started the truck, Jonny Lang greeting him in voice and sweet licks. She slipped her hand back into his and they left the house behind. Isaac smiled as he watched the Town car pull into the drive. He hurried outside to greet the occupant. "Hey!" Called a friendly voice. "Hey!" Ike called back quieter. He jogged over to the window of the car, bending down to look inside. "Nice car. Remind me to thank your dad." Ike said with a grin. "Hey, no problem." Ashley returned. "So... are they ready?" He asked. Ike looked over his shoulder to the house. "I think so." He responded. "Do they suspect anything?" He asked another question. Ike laughed. "I think Mom smells something fishy, but she hasn't worked it out yet." He chuckled. Ashley nodded, a matching grin in place. Ike stood up, stretching from stooping so low. "I'll go get the rubes to be duped for the evening." He laughed. Ashley shook his head. "Remind me never to have kids." He shot back. Isaac looked at him cockeyed. "I don't think your wife would be too thrilled with that decision." He laughed. Ashley shrugged. "Maybe she should hang around you guys more... she'd agree with me I bet." He teased. Ike shook his head chuckling as he walked back into the house. He shut the door gently, looking up the stairs toward his parents bedroom door. He grinned mischieviously, a little chuckle to himself and he took to the stairs, two at a time in his excitement. He squirmed infront of the door then knocked, trying his best to calm himself and act naturally. "Mom? Dad? Car's here." He said loud enough to be heard inside. He heard a noise from within then the door opened a bit. "Thanks Ike. We'll be right down." His father smiled at him. "Sure Dad." He shrugged. He turned when his father closed the door, then headed back down the stairs. He felt like a kid on christmas morning. He waited impatiently in the hall, pacing back and forth. He heard the door open from above and stopped, diving for the livingroom to look like he was just hanging out. His father entered the room. Ike looked up from the t.v., ever the actor of the day. He smiled. "Nice threads Dad. Look'n snazzy!" He quipped. His father smiled. "Thanks. I think your mother has excellent taste. Though I never get to dress myself." He chuckled. Ike stood up, laughing with him. "I've already learned to shut my mouth and just put it on. No matter what El is handing me." Ike joked. His father chuckled. "Good man. You're gonna do just fine I think." He shot back. Isaac laughed with his father until he noticed he was the only one laughing. After witnessing his fathers sparkling eyes he turned around to see what had stolen his laughter. "Whoa! Mom!" His mother's smile lit up the world. "Why thank you Isaac." She returned. His exclamation was a compliment that would make any woman feel special. "I'm... I"m almost speechless." He studdered. "Stunning and radiant come to mind... but beyond that... I'm at a loss." He quipped charmingly. His father patted his shoulder. "Aint I a lucky dawg?" He grinned. Ike laughed, the compliments were flying, making Diana blush. But there were all sincere. Walker took his wife's hand, brushing a soft kiss over her fingers. "Ready dear?" He asked. She nodded. Isaac led the way and opened the front door for them. He followed them out. Ashley stood, rear door open and a wide smile displayed. "Ashley dear! What are you doing here?" Diana cried out. He grinned at her, Isaac filling in the required explanation. "It was such short notice, but I managed to find you a classy car and driver so you could have your evening out Mom." He said pridefully. She stroked his cheek with love in her eyes. "You're so toughtful dear." She said, pecking his cheek. He beamed, glad to have pleased his mother. His father patted his shoulder, a loving squeeze added with his grin. With a regal sweeping bow, Ashley ushered the couple into the back seat. Isaac leaned over, looking in as his parents settled in comfortably. "Don't worry about a thing. Just leave the driving to Ashley. But remember, he's been sworn to secrecy so don't think you're going to get any answers out of him as to where the resteraunt is." He grinned, loving the giggle from his mother. "I'll be at Eddies for a while with Tay, I'll make sure he's back to keep an eye on the kids even if Zac and Moirah don't get back in time. El and I are going to spend a quiet evening in. So if you need me, you'll know where to reach me." He informed them. They nodded and Ike closed the door. He turned to Ashley. "Remember, skirt the city, then when it's close to time, bring 'em over." Ashley nodded. "Thanks again man." Ike toned. Ashley grinned at hiim again, getting into the car. Ike stood in the drive and waved until they were gone... then booked ass to the house. When Zac and Moirah arrived at the hall, Tay was still unloading the car of the liquer. Zac hopped out, then reached for Moirah. As he was setting her down he called over to his brother. "Need a hand Tay?" Tay turned around, a wide smile given to them. "It can wait. Let me help you." He said, leaving his car and walking over to them. Moirah shot him a friendly smile and he ate it up. "Jenn's in the kitchen helping Virginia already. What can I help you with?" He asked generously. "Could you help Zac carry the boxes of cake in? Be gentle, keep them level." She said with all seriousness. He nodded and went to the back of the truck just as Zac was taking the tailgate down. She watched them a moment, making sure they could handle it without destroying her hours of labor, then she went around to the passenger side and opened the door. She hoisted out two floral arrangements and followed the men through the wide open double doors. She stood in the doorway, taking in the whole scene. It was lovely, they had done a wonderful job and the ideas that she and Jess had conjured up seemed to be executed perfectly. The dance floor was surrounded on all sides by collumns, each swathed in white twinkle lights hiding under puffy tulle banners and yellow roses with ivy garlands wrapped spirally around them. The tables were all covered in simple white cloths, each holding a small silk floral arrangement with a candle. She had to admit... it looked better than she thought it would. She trotted off to the head table and placed the smaller arrangement she was carrying in the center, then went over to the side where buffet tables were obviously being set out and put the larger one on one side. She joined Tay and Zac back at the door after a few waves to El and the children. The gathered up the last of the boxes of cake... and she got out the final floral arrangement and her bags, shutting the door with her shoulder. As she was placing the last floral arrangement Jenn came out of the kitchen carrying a large punch bowl, followed by Virginia with two pitchers. She smiled at the women. "Hey! You made it!" Jenn called out. She smiled back, watching as Virginia poured the pitchers into the bowl sitting on the table. "Everything under control in there? Need any help?" Moirah asked. Virgina turned to her. "Not yet dear. You see to the cake then we'll worry about the rest of the food." She told her. Moirah nodded, leaving the two women to finnish filling up the punchbowl. She headed back to the door, and again met up with Tay and Zac on their way back to start unloading Tay's car. She set her bags at a table next to the door. She turned around to spot Jess. The girl was on the other side of the room, handing Daniel the end of a line of lights they were stringing over the head table. "Jess!" She yelled. The girl turned around, smiling at the owner of the voice that gained her attention. Daniel did as well and waited to hear what Moirah wanted. "I've put my camera here at table next to the door." She called. Jess nodded, knowing it was just so she could keep an eye on it and make sure the younger set didn't fool with it. Moirah smiled agian at the two and went out the door for the last of the things from Tay's car. "Shit, that's fucking heavy!" Greeted her ears when she stepped outside. She giggled. Taylor was quite expressive. She went to the trunk of the car to see what all the hub bub was about. She smiled as she saw Tay struggling with a keg of beer. Zac standing back laughing. "Don't stand there making fun of him... help the poor man!" She scolded good naturedly. Tay looked up to her, his grimmace melting away into a smile. "Yeah, help the man!" He echoed. Zac laughed harder and jovially shoved his brother aside. He tugged at it, barely budging it. Both Moirah and Tay laughed at the surprized look on Zac's face. He stepped back and laughed at himself then. "I never knew they were so heavy!" He chuckled. Moirah opened the back door and hoisted out the last box of champagne. "I'll let you guys figure it out." She said, then noticed a friendly face not far behind the two. She smiled at him as Zac and Tay were trying to lift the keg out together. "Let me give you a hand with that." A deep voice boomed behind them and an extra set of hands lay on the dull silver barrel. Both men turned suddenly, wide grins plastering on their faces instantly. "Darius my man!" Zac cried out, happy to see his friend. Darius chuckled despite the obvious effort it was taking for the three to lift the keg from the car. Moirah scurried off with the case of champagne ahead of them as the three men trudged in with the beer. She set the box on the long bar, standing back out of the way and making room for them. They hauled it behind the bar and set it down with a loud tinny thud. All three blowing out a breath of relief. Tay was rubbing at his sore hand as they filed out of the small space from behind the bar. "You ok?" Moirah asked him. He nodded. "I'll be ok." He answered, giving her a smile in thanks for her concern. She nodded. "If it gets worse you go see Jenn for some ice in the kitchen." She directed at him. He nodded. Then she left them to the work of taking care of the bar as Darius headed back out the door. She went over to the table laid out for the cake and started her job of erecting a confectionary treat for eye and pallet. She was unpacking boxes of cake when a booming voice shouted over the dull din. "Who wants to help me with the balloons?!" "ME!" Answered several small voices when Moirah looked up to see a large Darius in the door, tank of hellium slung over his shoulder like a jug of moonshine. She laughed at the scene of him being attacked by a few small blonde headed mauraders. He was lapping up every drop of the affection and attention they gave him. She smiled and went back to her work. A while later, as she was just finnishing with the last little details a friendly voice sounded at the door. "Hey! I'm here!" She looked over to see Ike, lugging in the gift she'd created for his parents. She smiled up at the new commotion. The children all seemed to gravatate toward him. The admiration evident in their faces at the way they looked up to him. She could hear his soft voice, gentle words metered out to the impatient children. "Hang on. Let me set it up first. Just be patient." She smiled, thinking that he would make a wonderful father someday. She watched as Daniel hurried over with the easel they had borrowed from Ike's friend over at the photography studio. Ike gingerly set the gift on the brass stand and gently lifted the sheet. As he revealed the gift, Moirah smiled at the small voices. It seemed they were all pleased with it, thinking it a wonderful gift for their parents and proud of themselves for pulling off such a caper. Isaac tenderly pushed hands away from the portrait, not letting them streak the glass. Mac wandered off after loosing the initial thrill of it. He headed back over to Darius and Zac where they were blowing up balloons still. Ike took Zoe by the hand, leaving Avie behind to busy herself. He headed toward the kitchen to greet El. She stepped from the kitchen just before he reached it, smiling at him winningly. She set the tray on the buffet table and hurried to him for a kiss hello. Moirah placed the cherished wedding topper that had been witness to the original union of the pair they were to honor on top of the cake. She started tossing together the boxes and such when she heard a small ruckus comming from across the room. She looked over and had to laugh. Mac and Zac were entertaining themselves, sucking the hellium out of a balloon and singing 'jingle bells batman smells' to the top of their newly squeeky lungs. The rest of the room joined in on the laughter. El, arms around her fiance, who had a small Zoe hanging on his leg, shouted out above the din. "All of a sudden it sounds an awful lot like nineteen ninety seven in here!" They all roared, giving kudos to El for her fabu joke. Having finnished assembling the cake and taking the discarded boxes to the kitchen Moirah set to work getting the rest of the food out. A few more of the Hanson's closest friends began to straggle in. Tay was setting up the speakers and such with Jess and Daniels help while Ike toted in his guitars from his car. Zac and Darius pushed the old upright piano out from the corner of the hall toward the spot appointed as the stage. The children were entertaining themselves by jumping all over the dance floor, trying in vain to reach some of the balloons with long ribbon tails that floated over the hardwood surface. Moirah was at the buffet table arranging a platter of h'ourderves when a new voice tumbled over the tables. "Dude! Get your sorry butt out here if ya want to borrow my drums!" All heads turned and a few faces grinned at their friend. "Eddie!" Three voices shouted back. Ike, Tay, and Zac all headed over to the door and greeted their friend. A stream of people filed in shortly after, each with a piece of a drum kit. It wasn't long before it was assembled and tested by an overly anxious Mac. El and Moirah stood in the doorway watching him pound away furiously, eyes closed and precariously tilting this way and that on the small throne. The chuckled at the scene of the boy going to town with little rhythm behind the varried beats. Virginia came up behind them and shortly so did Jenn. Virginia spoke up. "Sorta looks like when Zac started out." She giggled. Moirah lookd over her shoulder to the woman and smiled. She tried to picture a equally small Zac doing the exact same thing and had to let out her laugh. Mac overshot reaching for a cymbol and nearly went flying over the set before Zac caught him with a loud laugh. "Dude! You're wicked on the skins and all... but you really gotta grow some before you try any fancy tricks." He teased in his deep voice filled with fun. Mac laughed, rolling his eyes as he stood. Zac steadied his brother and took the drumsticks from his hands, seated himself on the throne and winked at his little brother. "Let me show you how a professional does it." He said with a grin. He poised with his sticks high over his head, counting off rapping them against each other. Then, with a powerhouse of a swing and lightning fast speed he attacked the drums. Sounding very much the same as Mac had only moments earlier. The whole crowd errupted with laughter. He grinned like a mad man his cackling laugh almost as loud as his thumping bass as the cacaphony shifted into high gear and morphed into a heavy pounding beat of a familiar song. Tay jumped over to the old piano, pouncing on the worn keys viciously. His grin was wicked as he accompanied his little brother, helping to fill out the song. In a few moments Ike had his electric hauled out and plugged in, adding his special zing as he showed the strings no mercy. Eddie jumped into the fray and broke out Ike's bass, cranking up the amp as soon as he had her plugged in. The walls were shaking with a thunderous roar of music. Every body in the building couldn't resist the spell it drew out of them. The all danced and swayed as they continued on with their tasks in preperation of the soon to arrive guests. Darius grabbed a few balloons from the ceiling and granted one to each of the kids, laughing as he watched them dance and revel in the pure enjoyment of the moment. Diana grabbed for Walkers wrist, hauling his watch toward her face. Her slight scowl catching his attention. He leaned to her, speaking low so only she could hear. "Something wrong?" He asked. She released his arm, turning slightly to face her husband. Her eyes darting to the front of the car before returning to the man at her side. "It's taking an awfully long time to get to the resteraunt... and we haven't even left the city." She answered. Now Walkers brow knit. "I'm sure Ashley knows where he's going. If we don't get there soon I'll ask him to drop us off at some nice place nearby." He offered. She sighed, nodding. "I suppose... but I just can't get rid of this feeling that there is more to this than meets the eye." She told him. He patted his wifes hand. "Try to relax and enjoy the quiet and the view." He soothed. Thinking that it was nice just to be alone... sort of... she resigned herself to enjoying the rest of the evening, no matter what happened. ***** The buffet tables were laid out with an elaborate spread, the music was hot, and the room was fastly filling. Zac found Moirah scurrying around the kitchen with her hands full and still trying to put more into them. He dove to help her and she smiled up at him gratefully. She led him out of the room and into the next. "Something you wanted?" She asked. He shook his head. "Nope, just wondered where you'd gotten to." He replied. She smiled at him as she added another ring of ice to the punch bowl. She lay the mold aside and took the tray from his hands, lifting one from the table and putting it in it's place. She handed him the empty tray and took the basket of napkins and silverware from him. He followed her down to the other end of the table, picking at the miniscule amount of food left on the tray as she put the basket down next to one similiar but nearly empty. She turned to him, a wide grin. She turned him around and pushed him toward the kitchen. He laughed and lumbered forward as he continued to scarf down the leftovers from the tray. She entered the room behind him and took the tray from him, setting it on the counter with the used mold as she shut the door. The room quieter now but the noise still buzzed on the other side of the door. She took his hand and he grinned down at her as she tugged him toward another door on the other side of the room. She opened it and went through, pulling him behind her. They stepped outside into the twilight, the air hung with a new chill as he shut the door behind himself. He pulled her into his arms, wrapping his large frame around her tiny body. She closed her eyes gently but her heart was open wide. Laying her head against the wall of his chest they sighed together, followed by a bit of a chuckle. He stooped low, bringing his lips down on hers in a kiss filled with much affection then moving on toward passion. When he pulled away from her to gain his breath his voice escaped with a rasp of a whisper. "I've been wanting to do that forever." He admitted. She opened her eyes, looking up at him. "I've wanted you to do that for longer." She answered. He held her against himself, reveling in the rare quiet moment alone with her. From somewhere inside the noise died down for a moment and a quick change of pace altered the mood as a ballad flowed from the speakers, slow and sweet. He rocked her in his arms. She swayed with him as she listened to the low rumble comming from deep in the center of his chest as he hummed with the music. The melody swelled and the song cascaded from his lips over her. He sang softly to her, the words not his own but the sentiment purely encapsulating all he felt for her. Her little hand slipped into his as he cradled her close. They danced in the dirty alley, lost in their own universe of being together as his voice rang off the sides of the surrounding buildings, the echo seeping into her heart. It wasn't long before the music died away and an odd hush fell over the party revelers. The spell having been broken and curiosity peaked, Zac and Moirah head back to reality. He opens the door and escorts her back to the kitchen. As they are slipping out of the kitchen clutching hands they hear the tail end of a small speech from Ike. He was standing atop a chair, mic in hand like a natural extension of himself. "... so everyone has to get ready! Remember! This has been a surprize but we don't have to yell that at them when they get here... I'm sure they will have figured it out by the time they get through the doors!" He led the laughter of the room. He handed the mic over to Daniel and jumped down, then hurried off towards the front doors. Zac stepped past Moirah and pulled her along behind him as he headed for his brother. When he made it to the door he leaned in toward Ike to be heard over the noise even though there was no music. "Ashley called?" He asked. Ike nodded. "Yup, there on there way. Should be her any minute now." He confirmed. Zac turned to Moirah, grinning wildly. His excitement was shared by everyone else in the room. Tay and Jess soon joined the small group by the door as they all waited for the arrival of the two guests of honor. El took the liberty of herding the youngsters over as she too joined them. Tay ran back to the kitchen and dragged out a reluctant Virginia and Jenn. "Taylor, we need to tend to the food." Virgina protested. "Nonesense!" He scoffed at her. "You've worked hard to help out with this. Besides, you're practacly family." He said sweetly, his charm working it's magic on the older woman. She smiled up at him and let herself be pulled over toward the door to be among some of the first to welcome the couple. Ike reached down and hoisted Zoe up onto his shoulders so she could see all the action. She was thrilled of course but only because now she could reach more balloons. Zac laughed at his totem pole of a brother and sister. With her hands full of confiscated balloons Ike looked suspiciouly like a demented palm tree. Tay rescued the balloon from the little hands, releasing all but one back to their perch on the cieling. Jess stole a sharpie from Ike's back pocket and drew a face on the little one's balloon, placating her for the time being. Then a loud little Mac raced in through the open doors. "They're here! They're here!" He shouted. The crowd hushed in anticipaiton and the siblings lined up almost mechanicaly. Moirah pulled her camera from the bag that Jess had in her safe keeping. Many a lens stood poised with hers. The shutter of her camera raced to keep up with her finger as she stole moments of time away onto the film. A beaming Walker strolled in with a nearly weepy joyful Diana on his arm. Their faces lit with love of the deed of the day for each and every face that looked back on them. A loud round of applause roared through the hall and echoed far into the night that had settled on the city. So many hugs and kisses were shared and passed around that it was difficult for one to know who had been greeted. Isaac called out over the crowd for silence but to no avail until the lights began to flicker off and on. El stood at the switches on the wall, a grin greeting everyone when they noticed her. "It worked in school when I was a kid." She shrugged. Ike led the laughter of the room as he went to her, dropping a kiss on her lips before he turned to the crowd. "I'd like to thank everyone who came out tonight on behalf of my brothers and sisters and a few very close friends... you know who you are... we'd like to thank all of you for helping us keep this a secret and for helping us show our parents how much we love them." He called out, recieving a cheer in return. Diana hurried to her son, showering him with kisses. "Oh! You're so sweet Isaac! I can't believe you all pulled this off. I knew something was going on! I just knew it!" She cried. He laughed. "It wasn't very easy you know. When Zac first mentioned the idea we all thought it would be a breeze... boy were we wrong!" He said, his grin wide. "This was Zac's idea?!" She asked incredulously. He nodded shortly and watched as she spun away to find another son. She pounced on him wrapping him up in a fierce hug. She yanked at his neck, dragging him down for a kiss. "Aw Ma!" He whined comicly. Just to spite him she kissed him again. Tay rescued his younger brother from the clutches of their mother. "Mom... don't you want to see your gift?" He asked her. She turned to him, eyes wide. "Isn't this our gift?" She squeeled. He grinned at her winningly, shaking his head. "Nope... wait til you see it Mom." He said teasingly. Tay took her elbow and deposited her into the care of his father as he once more joined the ranks of the children. El picked up Zoe so she could see and Zac lifted up Mac for a better view. Moirah readied the camera once more and waited for the unvieling. Ike was appointed the leader of the pack by default so he went to the easel and grinned at the crowd. They had all seen it already and it wasn't until they'd recieved the call that Diana and Walker were on their way was it covered up again. "Mom, Dad... this is from all of us." He said shortly. He grinned once more and lifted the sheet. A moment of quiet gripped the room and they all heard her tiny little "Oh!" when Diana lay eyes on her beautiful children, grouped candidly with the backyard as a backdrop to their loving ease. An air of close devotion and genuine caring embraced the photograph. Diana wept openly with tears of sweeping joy. It was a lovely gift, one to be treasured and cherished. She fell into the arms of her husband. He held her as he tried to hold back his own display of emotions. "Don't you like it Mama?" Zoe asked. Diana lifted her head, swiping away the tears as her laughter spilled out. She reached for her baby, clutching her to her dearly. "Oh sweetie! I love it... I really really do!" She cried. "They why are you crying?" The girl asked. Diana chuckled, choking a bit on her emotion. "These are happy tears, very happy ones." Her mother told her. Zoe looked confused still but decided to accept her mothers excuse. Avie tugged at her fathers coat tail. He bent down to her, hugging her as he urged her with his eyes to ask the question he saw in her face. "Daddy?" She started. "Yes?" He answered. "Now that you're here... can we have cake?" She smiled. He grinned at her, lightly tickling her tummy. "Soon enough oh impatient one... soon enough." He laughed out as he stood again. He took Zoe from her mother and hugged her to him before letting her down to scamper off with her waiting brother. He watched the two blonde heads dissappear into the crowd, still not loosing sight of them as he watched a bobbing pink balloon dance along through the throng. His smile was so wide... wider than it had been in a long time, and it was welcome. The happy couple were escorted to a table at the head of the room where they recieved good wishes from a long line of family and friends before they were seated and served. They didn't waste much of their time on their dinner, they were looking more forward with traversing the room to greet and thank the rest of the people in attendence. It wasn't long before they were accosted while chatting with a group of friends. Avie and Mac tugged at them, one to a parent. "Mom! Mom! Can we have cake now? Please!?" Was their cry. Walker couldn't help but laugh. Their enthusiasm was so fierce, how could he refuse them? "Ok, go tell them in the kitchen that we're ready then." He obliged. Huge grins carried off the children toward the room in the back. A few minutes later Tay's voice crackled over the crowd as he shouted into the mic. "Hey! Ok were gonna have cake!" A few cheers rose and the assemblage parted for Walker and Diana to cross the room and get to the large cake standing apart from the buffet tables. Zac sat at the bar, watching the room filled with family and friends. He sipped at his beer, eyes trained on the red head toting a large tray of cake around the tables skirting the dance floor. Her movements so full of grace and her face filled with joy as she interacted with the guests, offering them cake in celebration. His face was void of the real tumultous brewing of his emotions he held inside. He ached to be with her every minute of every hour of every day. But tomarrow he would be putting her on a plane, sending her away. He wasn't sure if he could do that. The pain of knowing that it would most likely be months before he lay eyes on her again was forcing him to think irrationally. The upcomming tour was like a huge weight hanging over his head. One that was tethered to his heart for the thought of going on the road tugged at his chest, making him wince as he watched her walk by. She threw him a smile, and he gave her back a watery reflection of one himself. He was grasping at ideas and concepts, none too outlandish to occupy his thoughts. He wracked his brain for a way to hold on to her. Giving her up for any length of time was perposterous... it was like giving up his life. He watched her slip into the kitchen with an empty tray. His heart cried out even for that brief moment when she was out of his view. He slammed down his fist. Damnit! There was no use in crying in his beer, it wouldn't do him any good. He slid the glass to the slick top of the bar and rose from the stool. He strode across the room in long legged quick step as he went after her. He barged into the kitchen, finding her alone, washing down the tray she'd been carrying. Without a word or even letting her dry her hands he shut off the tap and took her little wrist in his grasp. He whisked her past the buffet tables to the other side of the hall and into a small room like some sort of office. He shut the door, flipping on the dim light over head. His eyes were swift and looked desperate. He stepped to her so quickly it took her breath away. He swept her into his arms, hands holding tightly as he pressed her to his broad chest briefly. His head dropped forward, a kiss falling ontop of her head. He pushed her away so fast it made her head snap up as he held her arms, looking down into her face. Breathlessly he spilled his soul at her feet. "We... we need to get married." He softly said. "Why? Are you pregnant?" She joked. He laughed genuinely. Only she could twist his mood into something entirely different with her mere whim. Still, he held his conviction though. If he were to stay sane he knew he needed to have her beside him. "Very funny my dear. No." She smiled with him and settled into his embrace a bit, quieted now having that out of her system. "I just mean... I... Moirah, I can't live without you! But I don't want to have to choose between you and my music either. That's all there is to me! You and the music fill me. Make me whole... how can I not have both?" He asked of her. His frightened tone scared her a bit. She had never seen him so torn. She lay a gentle hand on his jaw as she looked up into his earthen eyes. She loved him as fiercely as she loved her own art. She completely understood what he meant. Though he had never asked her to, she knew he wouldn't dream of asking her to choose between he and her other passionate lover - creativity. she certainly couldn't ask of him the same that was burning her brain. His whole existance was his love of music, and if he said he loved her equally, if not more, then she knew his passion was imense for she knew how much he cared for her. "Zac, I could never ask you to choose anymore than you could ask me to. I think the four of us can find a way to live together. I know I can tolerate your mistress if you can abide by my keeping my lover." He loved the poetic way she spoke. Everything about this woman was living breathing embodiment of exercised art. It was one of the things about her that he loved the most. And when her rolling Irish brogue cascaded over the knowels and ditches of his mind... it was like listening to the most ethereal of musics. "I know that my love. But how am I supposed to survive the tour without benifit of your touch? How will I make it through the hours let alone the days without tasting you on my lips? How will I live through the pergutory of endless nights without you in my arms? I can't do it, I just can't!" He nearly cried. "Shh... baby. Calm down. I know it's going to be hard. We knew this from the beginning. But you must remember, it matters not where you are in the world." She lay her fingertips over his heart as she held his eyes with her own. The fiercest of stares, straight to his soul kept him in place. She whispered. "I am in here." She tapped her fingers twice in tune to the beat of his heart. He swallowed thickly, knowing how hard it was going to be but knowing, she too would be struggling. His eyes never left hers as his hands slid over her body. One finding her hand and holding it tighter against his heart, the other journeyed upward and grazed over her delicate jaw, against her silk soft cheek and dove into the maze of her auburn hair. He whisperd soft enough to be heard throughout the whole of the universe. "Moirah. Marry me, please?!" With a sinking sickness creeping up behind him he watched as her eyes closed. Then she slumped against him. He was numb, too numb to be incredulous when he disbelievingly listened to her waivering voice crack as she let the toxic words seep out. "I can't." He knew she was right, but he didn't want to accept it. His pained soul twisted his heart into a gnarled and grotesque reflection. He was going to have to force himself to survive through the next months. He didn't know how he was going to be able to hold up, and what was killing him the most, was knowing that shee too would be feeling the oceans of loneliness. HIs sense of loss and longing nearly brought him to his knees as he fiercely held her to him. She was sobbing against his chest and he tried to wrap his big arms around her small frame even more without breaking her. She was always an emotinally strong woman, now that he saw a fragile side to her, he was afraid it would manifest itself physically as well. A knock at teh door wrenched them back to the here and now. "Yes?" He called at, rubbing at his eyes. "Zac, honey... Gramma is here. Don't you want to introduce her to Moirah?" His mothers voice floated through the door. He looked down at his love and forced a smile as he wiped away her tears. Together they gathered a collective sigh and he opened the door, an arm around Moirah's waist. "Sure thing Mom. In a few minutes." Diana could see right through that brave face he'd put on. She looked ot Moirah who was doing her best to collect herself and look presentable. She took her from Zac's loving arms and drew her into a hug. "I know dear, I know. Come with me and we'll see if we can't do something about fixing that mascarra ok?" She looked over her hsoulde sending a loving glance to her son as she led Moirah away. She recieved a small but genuine smile, all be it a sad one, at least it was still real. She guided Moirah into the restroom. She wet a papertowel, handing it to her so she could wash her face. As Moirah watched her reflection in the mirror Diana began. "I know it's hard to be apart. Lord knows I've had my fair share of that." Moirah stopped and turned to the other woman. "It must be terrible. And after so many years of marriage too... to have to be seperated so far and so often. How do you do it? I mean... sometimes you two still looke like highschool sweethearts. It's obvious that you love him tremendously, but, how do you et through all of that empty time and space when you're apart?" Diana's heart went out to this woman. True she was not what she'd had in mind to capture the heart of her son, but she could not deni the fierce showing of love between the two, even after such a short period. "Honey..." She lay a hand on the womans arm. "Walker and I have been through everything together in our lives since we were like nineteen. We know if we can handle all of those harships that we've been through... well we're pretty certain we can get through that too. We just have faith... and a tremendous phone bill!" The two women laughed together. "I hope you're not talking about me behind my back making jokes." Abruptly the two women stopped their laughter and looked to the doorway from where the deep voice had some form. A grinning Zac, stripped to his wifebeater and newly brushed pony tail greeted them. At the same moment they smiled at him and it took his breath away. Two of the women he loved the most in the world were standing side by side before him and he had been the cause of those genuine, loving, and radiant smiles. He was happy enough to feel his heart burst with pride and affection. "I don't think you need to worry about that son." Diana spoke as she easd past her wall of a son and out the door with a pat on his shoulder. He grinned bigger at Moirah. She returned the smile as best she could. "Your Mom is an amazing woman." She sighed. He looked over his shoulder to where his mom was slipping into his fathers embrace and greeting a group of old friends. He turned back to Moirah as he spoke. "She is isn't she." He agreed. He watched Moirah touch up the dark blueof her long lashes as he stepped into the room, letting the door close behind him. "But then again love, so are you." He whispered into the back of her hair as he embraced her from behind. Sighing she leaned into him, meeting his gaze in the mirror. "Thank you. Thank you for that, and for everything else you said before. I know we can do this. If your Mom and Dad and Ike and El can, then so can we." She turned in his arms to look into his eyes earnestly. "Right?" She asked. He could hear her quest for assurance and he could not deni her that comfort. "Sure baby, sure we can. And you know why? Because I love you." He kissed her tenderly. "I want you." And again gently. "I need you." She kissed him lovingly, fully after his teasing pecks. She needed to feel that warmth of him against her. He broke from her and stood tall again. "Come on, I want you to meet yet another amazing woman of the family Hanson. My Gram. She's a pistol- you two are gonna hit it off well, I just know it." He stated with confidence. "Really? Well in that case then..." She wiped away a smudge of lipstick from his mouth. "Let me fix my lipstick you just ruined and we'll go." She laughed. She turned back to the mirror as he leaned against the sink, watching her. Her deep burgundy lipstick kissed her mouth as she smoothed it on. The simple action finding an air of sensuality to him he stared, licking his lips. From the corner of her eye she caught his movement as he shifted to adjust his hardening member. "What?" she asked perplexed at his behavior. "Do you know how fucking sexy you are when you do that?" He asked her breathlessly. She softly laughed as she finger combed her hair. "Zac, if I had the flu you'd be horny!" She teased. He laughed. "You're probably right, but none the less..." He grabbed her around the waist as she was slipping her things back into her purse. He dove his noce into the crook fo her neck as he pressed her to him. "You are so hot, you got me going crazy wanting you." She laughed as she pushed him away. "Whoa, down big boy. I thought you wanted to go see your gramma?" She reminded him. He sighed as he raked his gaze over her ample cleavage. "I do, but you know I'd rather stay here with you. We could have so much fun you know." He teasingly reached for her again. She side stepped his grasp. "Uh uh uh." She waggled her finger. "You've got to be good and go see her while you can. She won't be there for you forever you know, you should cherish time with her now." She chided him. "I know, but you're a lot cuter." He joked as he stood up and pecked her cheek. "Just give me a minute ok?" He pleaded - now was not the best of times to embarrass himself. She looked down to his obvious dilema and giggled. "Hey! It isn't funny!" He lightly protested. She got an almost evil grin and he backed up eyeing her with distrust. She grabbed his crotch as she huskily whispered. "You're an easy target babe. Can't blame a girl. Aint payback a bitch?" And with peals of laughter she nimbly shimmied out of his reach and out the door. He grumbled to his reflection. "Women!" When Zac left the room alone a while later he let his eyes sweep over the crowd. He spotted her, leaning against a table as she laughed and chatted with Ike and El. He grinned when a fast paced song poured over the room. He locked eyes with his brother and Ike returned the grin. He saw Ike nudge El and she in turn nodded toward him, tossing Moirahs attention in his direction. He went to her. Shaking her head with a wide grin rivoted to her face she watched as he bounced and goose necked his way over to her snapping his fingers like a drunken beat nick poet. "And what the hell is that supposed to be?" She asked through her laughter. He stopped and stood with an indignant look upon his face. "What?" He said huffily. "That!" She gestured, mimicing him mockingly. He stiffened his spine and puffed out his chest. "That was called dancing. Perhaps you've heard of it?" He said with a snoody air in his voice. Then they both broke out in peals of racous laughter. He picked her up and twirled her around dizzily a few times before setting her back down. They docey doed off into the crowd. Isaac leaned to Elouise. "Such a pair of clowns!" The affection for his brother thick in his barb that bit too softly to sting. Moirah was breathless trying to keep up with him, for his strides were great and her legs were not. She was more than glad when he stopped. His grin was wider than the grand canyon when he looked down at her... she knew, for she had photographed the natural wonder before. "I need to whet my whistle. You want something honey?" He asked with heaving chest. She only nodded, that was all she had left in her. She leaned heavily on him as they went to the bar. She laughed when he lifted her up and propped her onto a stool. He gave her a mischievious grin and pecked her cheek then went behind the bar. He fixed her a drink as his back was turned to her. Moirah crossed her legs and leaned against the bar, her gaze upon him loving and glaringly affectionate. "You must be Moirah." A voice said next to her. She turned, her smile polite to greet this woman who had adressed her. "That I am. Pleasure to meet you." She stuck out her hand as Zac turned around, placing her white russian on the bar before her. The woman shot him a brief pleasant smile then accepted Moirah's hand. "Honey, this is my Gram." Zac informed her. Moirah's smile grew wider, warmer. "Well! It's certainly nice to finally meet you I must say." She said brightly. The other woman took a seat next to her when Moirah'd let go her hand. "Well it's nice to meet you too dear. I've heard so much about you and I've been anxious to see if you were for real." She teased. "Gram!" Zac laughed. She shot him a look from the corner of her eye. He shook his head and reached for another glass. He turned around again and the two women smiled at each other. "So you're an artist dear?" His gram asked. Moirah nodded as she took a sip of her drink. "Mhmm. I am." She said between sips as she quenched her parched throat. "Well I think that's wonderful." She toned, patting Moirah's hand. "Tell me, what kind of art do you do?" She asked politely making conversation. Zac turned again facing the women and set a drink before his gram. "Thank you dear." She said, glancing at him. He only smiled and nodded. He reached for yet another glass and took a step away while he filled it at the tap. "Mostly sculpture, I do paint some. And I've been known to have a showing of photographs from time to time." Moirah picked up the conversation. "Isn't that lovely!" The other woman cried. Zac stepped back to the ladies and leaned his elbows against the bar, setting his beer before him. "You know Gram, Moirah did our portrait for Mom and Dad's gift tonight." Zac informed her. "Really? How wonderful! It really is a lovely picture dear. It just captured that pack of rougues so perfectly." She winked at the two. Zac laughed and Moirah tried to keep her giggle down to a minimum. "Well, I only catch what I see." She said, winking back making his gram laugh too. Zac took a deep pull from his glass and smacked his lips dramaticly with a loud, 'ahhh!' He wiped his mouth on the back of his hand and pushed away from the bar. He got out from behind and stepped around to the back of the two women seated, making them turn a bit to survey him. He held his hand out with grand chivilary, bowing lowly. "May I have this dance Madam'e." He said in a deep voice, laced with a hint of a parisian accent. The ladies laughed and he peeked up at them as he was still bowed. "Why I'd love to. Thank you sir." A hand was slipped into his and he strutted off with his prize. The woman left behind smiled to herself and leaned her back to the bar, watching that wonderful man and his dance partner spin about over the floor. She giggled when he dipped her, their laughter ringing out as they began to attract a crowd. She shook her head, grinning as she reached around for her drink. She went back to her job of being a spectator to the specticle of Zac dancing and sipped her white russian as the whiskey on the rocks sat melting beside she and the empty beer glass. return unto me take a flying leap step back bitch jump back bitch run away bitch stay away bitch don't come back bitch take that bitch want another bitch? in the beginning *On My Knees* [email protected]