Date: Sun, 4 Dec 2005 19:43:16 EST From: Kato5568@aol.com Subject: Little Fiery One" -Chapter 12 "Little Fiery One" By Kate V. Warning: This story is a work of fiction and contains descriptions of explicit sexual acts between collage girls. If this type of content offends you or you are under the age of 18 do not read it. Author's Note: This story is the property of the author. It can be downloaded for personal reading pleasure or sending to a friend, but if you wish to re-post them at your own site, please contact the author for permission. Copyright 2005 Sept, All Rights Reserved. Chapter 12 Entering the boardroom at the National Team training center, Keegan noticed the sleek polished walnut table that dominated the center of the room. Along the walls were pictures of the National Team including the 1992 Olympic team. Since Christmas break, her life had been a whirlwind. There was always the pressure of classes, but when Curtis informed her that the National Team was interested in her, she did not know how to react. Her body was is shock. All her dreams as a small girl were at the tips of her fingers. Her final numbers for the season as a freshman were impressive. She had scored twelve times and assisted on five goals during the season. After the conference tournament and the NCAA tournament, she was on a natural high. When Curtis called her into his office just before her birthday, he had handed her an envelope with the National Team emblem in the upper left-hand corner. The letter was address to Keegan Garry, Weston University. With a raised eyebrow she looked curiously at Curtis "If this is your idea of a birthday present for me, it's a really good one." Keegan carefully pulled opened the sealed envelope and unfolded the heavy stationary paper. "We would like to invite you to try out for the US National Team, " Keegan continued to read the letter. Her chest was constricting with excitement. Her pulse quickened. "Wow!" She smiled at Curtis. "Did you know about this?" "I got a couple calls after the quarterfinals game. Coach Martinez went to LA to watch the game. He seemed very interested." "Why didn't you say anything?" Keegan inquired. Usually Curtis was up front and let her know if there was someone there to watch her play. "Because I wanted to win. I did not need you are Gwen to be all freaked out over the National Team having interest." "Gwen too?" Keegan heard Curtis slip the information to her. His face flushed. He hadn't meant for her to know that bit of information. "Yes, she is scheduled to come in after her final this afternoon." He folded his hands on the desk. "Do not say anything." During Christmas break Gwen and she were flown out to California to the training center on the University of California campus. Subjected to a flurry of activities including endurance, physical exams, psychological testing, academics and a panel interview. There were forty plus candidates that had been invited to the tryouts. Their skills as players were not assessed at the tryouts. Obviously they all had the talent that the National team was looking for. Interviewing with the panel represented the final step in the three-day process. On the first day of the interview process, she had met with all three members of the panel and had the chance to interact with them at one time or another. Representing the panel, Dr Michael Martinez, the team psychologist, Robin Cash, National and Olympic team member, the final member was Chico "Dominic" Marino, an assistant coach with the national team. As she pasted through the threshold of the room, she critiqued her outfit, a white oxford shit with a pale blue top underneath and a pair of tan Dockers. Her eyes immediately spotted the video camera set up on a tripod at the opposite side of the massive table. "Keegan, come in and have a seat." Dr. Martinez gestured to the rich leather chair facing the panel and the video camera. Her stomach lurched with nerves, she had been so wound from the last few days she was not prepared for the video camera. Nervously, her hand went to her stomach to calm the butterflies lurching about. Dr. Martinez had dressed in a trendy Brook Brothers navy blue suit jacket, he wore a crisp white shirt with no tie. He tried to maintain that casual atmosphere and relax the candidate. Chico Marino had opted for his regular navy polo shirt with the National Team emblem over his heart. Cash modeled the National Team warm up suit with the white pants and the red and blue jacket. She seemed just as nervous as Keegan at the moment. Keegan pulled back the chair and sat down. She folded her hands in her lap. Taking a deep breath she tried to relax as she raised her blue to meet the eyes of the panel. Chico Marino led off the discussion with the topics that would be covered and what they were looking at in responses. He smiled and asked her to relax. At that moment Keegan saw a flash of Curtis in her head. "Be yourself and relax." Curtis had told her at the airport. She smiled and nodded. Instead of the question and answer session that she expected from the panel it was more of a getting to know Keegan Garry. When the discussion turned towards her family, Keegan felt as ease. She spoke of her parents and her sister's. At this moment that Megan was mad at her for not being able to watch her basketball game over break. How she had promised Ashley they would go shopping when she returned. How her family helped her with her recovery from the accident. What a tough year her senior year had been and how she had to grow up quickly. "With soccer and the schedule constraints, how do you get your school work accomplished." Robin Cash asked reflecting on her own experience. "I am at Weston to get an education. Soccer is just a bonus and a way for me to accomplish that goal. I study when and wherever I can. On the road, there are distractions, teammates, coaches, and practices. When we came out for the NCAA tournament, I was sitting at the pool with my textbook open on my lap studying for a microbiology exam that I had on Tuesday. Mind you it was Thursday but I didn't know what was going to happen and I really needed to study when I could. I skipped the jaunt to the ocean and going to watch the earlier games. " "How did you do?" Dr. Martinez asked "Got an A." Keegan smiled. She had studied her ass off and missed a fun trip to the ocean. "I still have not seen the ocean yet." "Maybe we can work that in before you leave." Marino stated. "In your profile, you listed yourself as dating." Keegan felt a lump form in her throat. Unconsciously she twisted the Claddagh ring on her left ring finger. Gwen had given it to her for her birthday three weeks ago. "How is that progressing?" Cash asked. Gwen quickly looked at the player. Cash had been a member of the gold medal winning team in Atlanta the summer before. She was known to have a strong religious background. "I believe that it is going well from my side." Keegan tried to sound casual but her the stress in her voice. "What about from their side?" Chico asked. Keegan met his gaze and smiled, "No major fights so far." Dr. Martinez lead forward with his elbows resting on the large polished table. He looked at his fellow panelist and began to speak. "Being part of the National team, it is expected that each member represents the country in their lives, morally, ethically, and professionally. If you are chosen as a member of this team, you will represent the United States in everything you do. " Martinez's voice echoed in her head. "What exactly are you asking?" Keegan want to be certain of the point that Martinez was trying to make. "What we are asking Keegan is that numerous young woman with your background in athletics may engage in a relationship with a member of the same sex. The question we are asking each candidate is whether or not you are a homosexual?" Martinez's voice was crisp. She saw Marino close his eyes for a moment. Cash's penetrative gaze never wavered. Keegan sat back in the chair and gave thought before she answered. Outside the California sun beat down, Keegan lifted her face to meet the warmth. Closing her eyes, she felt the tears spill down her cheeks. For so long she had worked. For so long she had dreamed. Over the past twelve months she had made so much progress physically and mentally. What did she do? Absently, she wiped the tears away with the back of her hand. Feeling the smooth medal of the Claddagh ring against her skin. She thought about Gwen. Somewhere she was going through the same interview session. How would Gwen answer the final question? Quickly, she walked towards her dorm room to pack for the trip back to Michigan. Curtis picked Keegan and Gwen from the airport late that evening. Flying from the West Coast east always seemed to have a greater physical toll. His freshman stars looked weary and stressed, as they carried their bags from the terminal and into his SUV. The words hello and thank you were uttered without emotion. Climbing into the back seat of the SUV, Keegan recalled the disoriented look on Gwen's face after her panel interview. They packed in silence and rode together to the airport with a group of other candidates. On the shuttle they sat next to one another but there was a change in demeanor. Prior to the interview session, they had compared notes and shared opinions about their experience. Neither one spoke or mentioned the last session of the process. With closed eyes and her head resting on the captain chair, Gwen was at the brink of an emotional breakdown. Her mind raced with the events that had transpired during her panel interview. Her anger towards her mother and father for the divorce emerged in a heated discussion with the panel. Her emotional tie to her grandfather and the Timor family. How she hated to go home and how the best holiday's she ever had had been when the team was in California for the NCAA tournament and at the Garry family house over Christmas. Questionably, she wondered why the panel probed so deep into her family history. After that tough moment passe, Gwen was confronted with the question regarding her sexuality. She wanted to ask Keegan how she had answered the question, but she didn't. Her own answer would be one that she would have to live with. She felt the distance in the shuttle van, on the plane and even now. Maybe it was her defense mechanism. "When did they say you would hear something?" Curtis asked breaking the suffocating silence. "With the background checks and other stuff, we were told twoto three months." Keegan's voice filled the air with the strain she felt inside. "Just enough time before summer break. That makes sense." Curtis reasoned with the logic behind the process. The National team would probably hold a mini camp over the break. He glanced at both of his players, they looked beat and worn out. The usual spark that they carried in each other presence's was missing. Wearily Keegan dragged her bag out of the back of Curtis's SUV. She threw it over her shoulder and shivered with the winter weather that whipped about her. "It's not California" Gwen remarked as she took her bag out. They waved and thanked Curtis for the ride. The dorm was empty for the holiday and semester break. Curtis had arranged for Gwen and Keegan to have access to their room when they returned. "I am glad to be back." Keegan mumbled as she opened the room door. She dropped her bag and fell on her bed. "Do you want to talk about it?" Gwen asked as she sat on the corner of her bed. Her hands were folded under her chin and her elbows rested on her knees. "No.." Keegan whispered. Tears escaped. She was spent. "Come here." Keegan gestured for Gwen. Gwen immediately cuddled Keegan from behind. Her chin rested on Keegan's head as their bodies intertwined. Keegan pulled the comforter on top of them and rested her head on Gwen's chest. Her mind reeled from the day's events. She thought back to the panel interview and she replayed the scene in her head. 'Whether or not you are a homosexual?" Dr. Martinez's question echoed in her head. The room seemed to spin as she leaned back in the soft leather chair. Her words slowly were spilling out. "My life.." She hesitated and bit her bottom lip. "My life has been great. I have come a long way in the past year." She looked at each panelist as she weighted her answer. "I have hidden most of my life. It took nearly dying to understand that I can't do that anymore." She wiped a lone tear that had slid down her cheek. " I am happy with who I am." She looked directly at Dr. Martinez. "Morally, ethically, and professionally, I am proud of who I am. I will not compromise my integrity by evading or not answering your question. A homosexual? Yes, I am" As the words were uttered, Keegan realized she had just quoted a Melissa Etheridge song. She smiled. "This may disappoint you but I have accepted this fact. I do not expect people to welcome the fact with open arms, but I will not hide who I am." ************************************************************** Three months later Curtis called Keegan and Gwen into his office. His expression was neutral. He motioned for them to sit in the chairs. Keegan smiled at Gwen as they both went to sit in the same chair. Curtis pulled a large overnight envelope from the drawer. Absently, he toyed with the package. "This came today. I haven't opened it yet." He looked at their faces. "We can do it separately or together. I'll let you choose. " "Together." Gwen said. Her uncertainly was killing her. She and Keegan had a few emotion spots regarding the National team. When they returned from California, Gwen had held Keegan through the night. In the morning, they agreed to put the National team out of picture, until they actually knew the answers. "There is no point to discuss it." Gwen said as she was speaking to Keegan. She was actually voicing her thought a loud. "Why bring up what ifs it there is not reason too." "I agree. Let's wait and see." Keegan said as she threw on her coat to go to class. She crossed the room and kissed Gwen on the lips. "I'll see you later." That was the only conversation they had had regarding the National team. Gwen silently prayed for them both to make the team. She would be disappointed if she did not make the team, but than there was always next year. "No matter what these letter state, you are both World class players. I am very proud of you. " Curtis ripped the perforated strip from the package. He eased out two envelopes bearing the National team emblem. He handed one to Gwen and the other to Keegan. "Wold class." He repeated. Keegan held her envelope in her hands. Examining the heavy weighted number ten envelope, she traced the team emblem in the left hand corner. Her finger passed over the raised letters and the colorful mark. Without hesitation, Gwen ripped her envelope open and discarded it to the floor like the wrapping from a Christmas present. Unfolding the stationary, she read the first line of the letter. "Congratulations and welcome to the United States National Women's team!" A scream of excitement filled Curtis's office. Gwen jumped to her feet and held the letter to her chest. She had made it. Her life would change. She would have a chance to compete with the world's best. Tears of joy filled her eyes. Curtis had come from behind the desk to hug her. "I'm proud of you, Gwen." He said. He turned his attention to Keegan. Her envelope still in her hands. He could see the happiness she had for Gwen. "Open it Keegan." He encouraged her. "I can't change what it says." Keegan reasoned as she slid the tip of her finger under the sealed flap. Her pulse started to increase and her hands were sweating. Gwen was kneeling at her side waiting for the results. "I am happy for you." Keegan smiled at Gwen. She turned her focus to her own letter. Taking a deep breath, she slipped the letter from the envelope carefully. Closing her eyes for a moment, she unfolded the letter and began to read. "Thank you for your efforts. Unfortunately we are unable to offer you a position .." With a weak smile she turned to Gwen. "Well at least one of us made it." Gwen felt her heart sink. She had expected for Keegan to be selected before she would be. She reached out and placed a hand on Keegan's arm. "Oh Kee..." Gwen's voice shook. "It's okay. You'll be great for both of us." Keegan slowly folded her letter and placed into the envelope. She opened a folder and placed the letter in the pocket. A deep cloud of regret filled her chest, if she would have lied, would it have made a difference? If she had renounced her sexuality, would the outcome be different? Would she be happy? She was happy now. Gwen made the team. How did Gwen answer the question? She flashed Gwen a smile. "It's got to be height thing." A friendly jab at Gwen's physical characteristic eased the tension. "I thought you would be selected." Gwen leaned her head on the arm of the chair Keegan sat in. "I am sorry." "Like I say, things happen for a reason." Keegan squeezed her hands together as she stood. " Be proud. You deserve it." Keegan gave Gwen a hug and nodded to Curtis. Outside the office, she did not break her facade until she reached the stairwell. Crumbling against the cold cinder blocks, Keegan contemplated what she had lost and what she was about to loose. ********** ********** ********** Tension between Keegan and Gwen increased as the time for Gwen to leave for National team summer camp grew closer. As soon as Gwen began to talk about the National team, Keegan would try to change the subject or leave the room. "I only have two more weeks, than it's off to California." Gwen said absently as she opened her textbook. "I think I am going to the library." Keegan closed her book and put it in her bag. Her stomach turned each time Gwen mentioned leaving. "Why are you doing this?" Gwen finally confronted the avoidance. "Do you want me to be happy for you? Keegan said as she sat at her desk chair. "I am scared...Scared." Keegan tried to hold back the tears. "Talk to me." Gwen crossed the room and kneeled between Keegan's legs. "What are you scared of?" "Gwen.." Keegan started, "I'm scared that I will lose you." "I promise..." Gwen began but was abruptly stopped by Keegan's finger pressed to her lips. "Don't..don't promise anything. Gwen there are things that you don't know. They want you to act a certain way, do certain things, and represent the National Team in everything you do. Everything." Keegan thought back to her answer at the panel. "There are too many unknowns." Gwen placed her head on Keegan's knee. Immediately, Keegan began to stroke her hair. Feeling the soft locks between her fingers. Remembering the carefree times she and Gwen had enjoyed. The nights of staying up making love. The odd feeling in the pit of her stomach whenever she saw Gwen. She still had that feeling even after nine months of being together. "I don't want things to change." Gwen said her voice cracked. "I love you." "I love you too, but things have already changed." Keegan knew she was had struck a cord. Gwen's body stiffened as Keegan's words registered. "Are you jealous? "Jealous?" Keegan felt the anger rising in her chest. "Jealous, Gwen I am not jealous. I am disappointed. I am disappointed that the National team is narrow minded and doesn't look at skill. They are more concern with moral representation." "What are you saying?" "I am saying that if I would have lied like you I would be on the National team." "Fuck you!" "Tell me I am wrong? Tell me that you told the psychologist and the panel that you were straight." "I don't need to answer that question." Gwen stood up and went to the window. "No, but you already did. " Keegan thought back to the hypothetical Gwen had posed to her in the fall. " Gwen, you will never be happy. If you keep denying who you are and hiding from your problems you will never be happy." Keegan spoke as she stood up. She grabbed her bag. Gwen back was turned to her. "I am rooming with Tara next year." "What?" Gwen turned around tears were in her eyes. "It's the best for all. What will the National team say when they know that you are rooming with a lesbian. Aren't you a little worried about that." "I didn't know you told them." Gwen said quietly. "Well, I did." "Why?" Gwen leaned against the windowsill facing Keegan from across the room. "Because I won't lie about who I am. I have hide too long. And .." Keegan stopped and swallowed a lump in her throat. "And I thought that we had something special. I didn't want to deny that." "You told them you were with me?" Gwen's tone conveyed accusations. "Fuck you!" Keegan grabbed her bag and headed to the door. "I wish I did....that way we would not be having this conversation." Keegan slammed the door behind her. Heated words changed the relationship between them. Gwen left for California and on to a future with the National Team. Keegan left for home and planned on spending the summer teaching at soccer camps. A month after Gwen left, Keegan picked up the phone in her bedroom. She sat on her bed leaning against the headboard. She had been miserable since the fight with Gwen. Her heart was cold and empty. Checking for the dial tone first, she called the number. Gwen birthday was the next day and she wanted to speak with her, but she didn't know how. As the phone rang in her ear, she lost her nerve. The moment before she was going to hand up, someone answered. "Hello." A female voices but not Gwen's. "Hello, is Gwen there?" Keegan didn't recognize her voice as the nervousness flowed into the receiver. "Hang on...Honey its for you." The voice called. Keegan's heart pounded and tears formed in the corner of her eyes. She closed her eyes and closed her heart. Gwen had found someone else. "Hello." Gwen called into the receiver, but Keegan hung up at the sound. She curdled up and wept in her pillow. Ten years later Each table in the banquet room was covered with heavy white tablecloths and elaborate pink and white bouquets of flowers served as a centerpiece. The annual fundraiser for cancer research brought in large donations for cancer research. Each year the foundation hoped to raise awareness and funds to continue to find a cure. At the front of the room was a raised platform with the head table for the speakers and special guests. Special guest, Gwen Lerner dressed in a white Giorgio Armani pants suit with a rich silk rose blouse underneath. She smiled and waved politely as she was introduced to the crowd. She took her seat at the main table and said hello to the guest next to her. Recently retiring from the professional soccer, Gwen had gone on to be a member of the US National and Olympic teams playing soccer around the world. She played a couple of season in the WUSA. She did not retire until a career ending knee injury. Life after the professional circuit had been successful. Her name was recognized in conjunction with women's health and fitness. In recent years she had been recruited to be the national spokesperson for Woman's Fitness. Fortunately she was able to transition from the soccer field to role of an official of women's health. Today's event held a special place in her heart. Her grandfather had died from cancer a few years ago. When she was asked by the foundation to be a speaker at today's fundraiser, she wanted to honor his memory. She had served as an honorary chairperson and done television spots for awareness since early on in her professional career. "Meg Martin, local advocate and this years recipient of the foundations volunteer of the year." The announcer introduced the young woman with bright blue eyes. The woman waved to the crowd and came to the seat next to Gwen. She quickly slid the chair out and sat. Staring at her for a moment, Gwen could not shake the feeling of knowing the fawn haired woman with the sky blue eyes. In the reception area before the introductions, she had noticed the attractive slim woman in the light gray suit with a sheer pink blouse and a tight wrap skirt. She was as tall or taller than Gwen's five eight frame. In her indigo eyes just below the surface there was sadness. On her lapel like each person in the room was the pink ribbon pin. On her left ring finger she wore a large marquise shaped diamond ring surrounded by two adjacent diamonds on each side. She nodded hello to Gwen with such a familiarity that Gwen caught her breath and thought of Keegan Garry. At the end of their freshman year at Weston, Gwen had been asked to play on the National Team. She and Keegan had been asked to interview for the National Team. In the end, Gwen had been accepted and Keegan rejected. When she left the summer between her freshman and sophomore year, she and Keegan had fought. A few times, Gwen had picked up the phone to call Keegan. She missed her fiercely. On her birthday that summer, her mother had come to visit and was driving her crazy. She needed to escape and want to talk to someone who would not be judgmental. After the second ring, Gwen hung up the phone. The team had been hard work. There was no time for a social life. They were either practicing or on the road traveling. When she returned to school in the fall for sophomore year, their relationship seemed to crumble. Even the friendship they had had was gone. Keegan refused to talk to her. Minimal conversations on the field. It was all business. Angry at first, Gwen wanted to hurt Keegan. She had gone from the volatile relationship with Allison James to a loving and solid one with Keegan. After a month of the cold shoulder from Keegan, Gwen decided she wanted to be free. She wanted to date, to experiment, and to sow some wild oats. After all, she was young and in college. The biggest mistake she ever made was getting drunk with Janet Dailey and sleeping with her. Although Keegan never mentioned the incident, Gwen knew she knew. There was a distance had not been there before. Even Dailey was put at arm length from Keegan. The only person Keegan associated with was Tara Washington. Since that time, Gwen had bounced in and out of relationships for the past ten years that she could only remember being truly happy and truly in love with Keegan. Her last relationship had ended over eight months ago and the division of property was still looming over her head once she returned to California. Unconsciously she stared at the woman next to her and thought how unusual that the woman looked so much like Keegan. This woman was much taller and her hair seemed to be a shade darker than Keegan's. How long had it been since Gwen had actually seen Keegan, maybe six or seven years ago. Oddly, she happened to be in the Chicago airport changing planes. In the frantic hustle and bustle of that time, they managed a quick recognition and a hello. Gwen recalled the tall chestnut haired woman that was at Keegan's side as they waited to board. They looked very happy and settled. Gwen's relationship at the time with Catherine splintered as an innocent hello escalated into a jealous rage. Her girlfriend questioned who the woman was with the beautiful bright eyes. Catherine impatiently waited for an answer. As Gwen explained who Keegan was. The mere mention of Keegan's name sent Catherine into a four-hour flight of jealousy and doubts of their relationship. Six months later they parted ways. Catherine like her other girlfriends always seemed to have a streak of jealousy whenever Keegan's name was brought up. Looking down at her water goblet, Gwen absently turned the crystal stem between her fingers. Just after she received a silver medal in the Olympics, pictures of her and another woman appeared in the tabloid magazines. Enraged by the photo's she knew that they were from her college years. Quickly, she went to blame Keegan for trying to make a fast buck. Gwen contacted Tara Washington, a reserve on the national team and active goalie in the WUSA. Listening to the accusations Gwen blurted out, Tara firming and boldly said, " Keegan has much more important things on her plate than outing you as a lesbian." Gwen never mentioned the incident again. A year later, she learned that Allison James had sold the photo's to the magazine. When Meg Martin reached for the podium, she seemed to struggle for a moment. She took a deep breath and began her story. "We all have stories of loved ones lost and loved ones saved. My story, I struggle with the joy of survival and sadness of defeat. I am the youngest of three sisters, both of my sisters have battled cancer, one lost the battle and the other continues to win the battle every day" Watching and listening to the story of Meg Martin and her sister's battles with cancer brought the audience to tears. Gwen struggled to hold back the tears as Meg's story touched her deeply. As Meg returned to her seat, Gwen greeted her with a hug. The emotions of one family's struggle with the disease echoed so many of the audience member's lives. "I just wanted to give you a hug." Gwen confessed as her eyes were filled with tears. "Is your sister here with you?" "No." Meg's voice was hollow. "She at home." Her eyes locked with Gwen's. "That's too bad. I would like to meet her. She sounds like a remarkable person." Gwen said lightly. Watching the play of emotions on Meg Martin's face revealed just how much the Martin family had sacrificed much in their battle against cancer. "Do you have a moment afterwards, my spouse is here and I would like you to meet. Another big fan." Meg said as a genuine smile appeared on her face and the sadness that had been present earlier was gone. "Yes, that would be wonderful. I am just staying in the hotel. " She gestured to the giant ballroom. "No wild parties for the single gal?" Meg probed a bit with her question. "Nothing but a date with Sports Center. The big glamorous celebrity that I am." Gwen confessed. She quit going out awhile ago. After the tabloid story, she was pressed to reveal her sexual preference at every event. There had always been too much attention when she did make an appearance out on the town. While still playing, she stayed away from drinking and mainly tried to work out as much as she could. Occasionally, she would have a glass of wine but that was her limit. "I believe there is a lounge for the hotel guests, we could meet there after we are done here." "I think that can be arranged." Meg said with a definite nod. A quick stop to her room and small favor from the concierge, Gwen arranged for a table in the quieter section of the restaurant. Stepping in the elevator, she recalled the first day at Weston before camp began. In an elevator years ago, she had met her a quiet dark hair blonde with the ice blue eyes. She blushed at the memory. She had stared into the same eyes earlier that evening. Gwen grabbed the railing of the elevator. Meg Martin was Megan Garry, Keegan's youngest sister. The youngest sister who spoke of struggle of her sister's battle with cancer. The story of the survival of one sister and the passing of another. Tara Washington's words came back at her like a ton of bricks, much more important things on her plate. Keegan had been battling cancer at that time. How long ago was that.... Gwen felt the queasiness in her stomach as it rolled. As she entered the restaurant foyer, she spotted Meg Martin sitting at the corner table with another woman. Her fingers enlaced with that of a tall slender cinnamon haired woman. Gwen recognized her immediately as the same woman Keegan had been waiting with in Chicago. "It was really strange Danny." Meg spoke to her wife after she had mingled with the contributors. "She looked right at me staring. I didn't know what to do or say." Meg put her hand to her forehead. "Than she said she wanted to meet my sister." "Meg, she has been all around the world and met tons of people. When is the last time she really saw or spoke to you let alone your sister." Danny Martin ran her hand along the small of her wife's back. She had been with Meg for five years and heard stories of her crush on Gwen Lerner. "She probably doesn't even have a clue." Danny looked up at that moment and gazed upon the face of a deeply troubled Gwen Lerner. "Hello, Danny Martin." Danny said as she extended her hand. "It's a pleasure to meet you. " Gwen focused on the attractive woman in front of her. She smiled and took Danny's hand. "Hello Danny. It's a pleasure to meet you. Megan, " Gwen turned to the youngest Garry sibling. "I am sorry I did not realize who you were until a few minutes ago." Gwen inhaled deeply. Tears appeared at the corner of her eyes. "I am sorry. I am so sorry." Gwen quickly covered her trembling lip. "No Gwen." Meg quickly took her by the hand and had her sit at the table. "No..its okay." Meg looked over at Danny for guidance. "Gwen, " Danny's voice caught Gwen's attention. "Gwen, we lost Ashley. Keegan is here." Danny's voiced echoed in Gwen's head. She looked at Danny and back to Meg. "Keegan is at home watching Sydney." "Ashley...oh she was so young. " She stopped a moment and reflected on the middle Garry sister. "So young." "Ashley held off chemotherapy because she was expecting. She wanted to make sure the baby was healthy. She was never able to recover." Megan voice held the devotion her sister had made for the sake of her child. " How courageous. " Gwen thought of what the young mother had to endure to see that her child protected. "Keegan will she see me?" Gwen asked. Her heart pounded against her chest. Her emotional roller coaster had seemed to settle. "I am ... not sure. She hasn't been much for company. I didn't even tell her that you were the special guest. Her emotions lately have been all across the board." Megan said. "She still has a connection to you. Remember what happened with Gina" Megan and Danny both laugh a bit. "Gina, Keegan's girlfriend was watching a game, WUSA and you came on the screen. Gina remarked something to the effect that there was no way you were gay and Keegan had made the entire relationship up. That you were only roommates in school. Keegan's indifference to you had to do with unrequited love." "She hates me." Gwen spoke her thoughts out loud. Megan shook her head. Danny smiled. "She has gotten past the relationship that ended. She's loved and been loved. She has had a good life. She has family and friends. " Danny spoke softly as she squeezed Gwen's hand lightly. "I am glad for her." Gwen's voice shook a bit with her answer. "I would still like to see her. Is there anyway? Can you give me her number? Take my number." She opened her purse scrambling for a pen and paper to write down the number. "Gwen," Megan's reservations were evident. "She has gone through a lot. She is not the same person she was in college." "I am not either." Gwen looked at the dimmed lights hanging on the wall behind Danny. "I threw something away that was special." Gwen raised her water goblet to her lips. Her hand shook as she attempted to quench her parched throat. Her words were labored and sincere, "I thought that I was too young to get involved in such a serious relationship. Here I am ten years later wishing that I had enough sense to get it back." Megan sat back in her chair. She had watched her sister struggle over the years to cleanse Gwen Lerner from her system. They had been through a rough time with Ashley and the birth of Sydney. Ashley had passed when he was six months old. A year later, Keegan found a lump under her arm, she broke down and sobbed. Through the chemotherapy, Keegan would say things that didn't make sense. In one session, she remembered her calling out for Gwen to make the pain go away. "I am not going to make any promises." Megan spoke softly and prayed that her sister would not be angry. "She will be at the house in the morning to drop off Sydney. " "Is Sydney yours?" Gwen asked. "Sydney is all of ours. Ashley left his care and well being to the family. " Megan smiled as she reached for her purse to show a picture of her nephew. She handed the photograph to Gwen. She took in the small boy with the curly black hair and bright blue eyes. She traced her finger over his facial features seeing so much of the Garry family resemblance. "He's got the eyes. " Gwen said unaware of the smile that had appeared on her face. Danny's hand held Meg's as the made their way out of the city towards the home they had shared. Meg stared out the window and thought about the events that had happened over the course of the evening. "Do you want to share those deep thoughts?" Danny asked as she squeezed Meg's hand. Meg smiled and lifted Danny's hand to her lips and kissed it gently. "Oh just hoping my sister doesn't kill me." Meg said as she turned the radio down. "Do you see what I mean about Keegan and Gwen?" "Yes, I do." Danny turned on the signal and changed lanes. "You had a big crush on Gwen when you were in high school." Danny laughed. "Funny...you always seem to bring that up. I think you had a crush on Gwen Lerner at one time." "I just thought she was hot." "Now that you met her?" "I think she's really hot!" Danny leaned over and kissed Meg. "I am teasing. I think that if she and Keegan ever get back together intense is a word I would describe it. They are both so...so.." "Electric" Megan finished her sentence. "Exactly." Danny said. "I think you sister is great and I love her. I just hope she has enough sense to see past the muddle." "This maybe a huge mistake or the best thing that has ever happened to Keegan in a long time." Meg said as she rested her head on Danny's shoulder. "Let's go home. No Sydney until morning." "That sounds like an invitation." "It is." Meg whispered in Danny's ear. Danny pressed down on the accelerator as the engine roared blocking out Meg's laugh. Sitting in her rental car in front of the home of Danny and Megan Martin, Gwen gripped the steering wheel tightly. Her stomach was in knots as she tried to calm herself down. She had changed her outfit three times settling finally for a pair of jeans and a blue and white striped blouse. She had checked out of the hotel early in the morning and drove to her father's house. She stopped in front, but did not go in. She hadn't spoken to him in such a long time that she didn't know how to open up the line of communication. Would she be able to communicate with Keegan? It had been such a long time since she had actually spoken more than three or four words to her. Gwen had not treated Keegan well after they broke up. When Gwen found herself in bed with Janet Dailey, the breach it created between Keegan and her was unattainable. Events seem to pass and whatever friendship had been was no more. Slowly, she eased the door open and walked to the front door. Danny was opening the door before Gwen pushed the button. "Good morning, come on in." Danny welcomed her into the artistically decorated foyer. The two-story colonial stood at the end of a cul de sac. There were houses on each side but at a large distance between neighbors. Between the décor and the furnishings, it was obvious that the Martin's did well financially. "Your home is beautiful." Gwen said as she gazed across the artwork and the warm colors that filled the rooms. The sunlight created a homeiness that so many other new homes lacked. "Thank you. Come in to the kitchen, Meg is just making a pot of coffee. With Keegan having Sydney we were able to sleep in a bit this morning." Danny walked behind Meg and placed a kiss on her neck. "Thank God. Kids can do that to you. Do you want kids, Gwen?" "Danny" Megan called out immediately. "Stop it. Gwen do not answer that question." "Its okay, I've never really thought about it. My childhood was pretty unpleasant. I wouldn't want to bring a child up in that type of environment. I could consider it if I had the right person and a good relationship. Believe me, some people just want kids to hold on to a relationship that has gone bad. " Gwen wandered towards the picture frames that lined the wall between the kitchen and the dinning room. As she passed by she saw glimpses of what Meg and Danny's relationship was like. "Did you get married on Church Street?" She called out. "Yeah, as soon as it was legal. The whole family went up to Toronto." Meg said as she leaned on the door jam next to photos. "How are Sarah and Bill?" "Retired to Florida. They were here when Keegan was sick. After Ashley, they seemed a bit broken. Sydney helped cure that. I think he did that for all of us." Hearing the front door open and the running of small feet across the tile. " Speaking of." Meg said. She placed her hand on Gwen's shoulder and gave it a squeeze. "Where is my man?" Meg called out as she headed towards the front door. Every fear ran through her body as Gwen turned to head into the kitchen. Danny sat at the table. In her lap was a small dark haired unruly boy with curls that did not stop. "Were you a good boy?" "He was a prefect gentleman." Keegan's voiced filled the air. Gwen felt her heart in her throat as she approached from the other side of the kitchen. She stopped at the island. Her hands gripped the counter top. Sydney pointed at her and mumbled something about "Who?" "Who's car is that?" Keegan took two steps into the kitchen. "There is someone who wanted to see you." Meg said as blocked Keegan way. She slid her arms on the shoulders of her older sister. Keegan's protruding belly made contact with her sister's hip. "What's going on?" Keegan sounded a bit worried but tried to keep it light. In her second trimester of her pregnancy had taken a toll on her emotions and her patience's. After clearing her health with her doctor, Keegan had made the decision to have a child. She had come close to dying, she wanted to have a reason to live. None of her relationships had mounted to more than a bad decision. When the cancer was discovered, it did not take Gina more than eight months to leave her. She was alone. She did not want to be alone. Sydney had created such a passion in her that she wanted to have a child herself. "Is it Mom?" Her voice seemed to tense as Meg refrained from answering. "Hello Keegan." Gwen stepped closer to the sister's. Meg turned and looked at her over her shoulder than moved away. For the first time in six years, she saw Keegan face. "I wanted to see you." Gwen choked out the words. Her gaze traveled from Keegan's shocking expression to the swell of her belly. She lowered her head to hide the tears. Numb from her feet up, Keegan stood in the middle of her sister's kitchen gazing into the face, which haunted her for years. The one person who shared precious memories with her. The person who had broke her heart. She looked at Gwen. For the first time in a long time, she was standing feet from her. Her face was not on the television set or in the distance of a playing field. Gwen was here. Keegan unconsciously placed her hand on her stomach. She suddenly felt fat and bloated. "Gwen." Keegan's voice shook. Her insides trembled and her knees were suddenly weak. "I ...I ..I don't know what to say." Keegan wanted to cross towards her and put both hands on her face and kiss her like she used to. "Wow...I am " "Pregnant." Gwen smiled as she saw the swelling belly. "Congratulations." No wonder Meg hesitated with Gwen wanting to see Keegan. She was trying to protect her sister from getting hurt. Danny's question earlier rang clearer. "Thanks. I'm due in four months. September baby." Keegan grasped the back of the chair at the table. "How are you doing?" "I am a bit embarrassed. I didn't mean to intrude on you but I recognized Meg last night." Gwen confessed. Crossing the kitchen floor to the table, Gwen stood next to Keegan. She could see the vein in Keegan's neck quicken as she came closer. Her own body was on fire. There was still such an attraction to Keegan. Memories came flooding back of kissing this woman in front of her of crying on her shoulder, of the love and support she had given the celebrations that they had shared. She had hurt her. She had caused her pain. "Keegan, " Gwen began to speak. Her words catching in her throat for the second time in less than twelve hours. "Would you like to go to dinner with me?" "No." Keegan answered quickly. "No...what are you doing here?" Keegan sat down on one of the kitchen chairs. "Why?" She looked over at Danny who was shifting in her seat. "You stay right where you are at." Keegan directed her words to Danny. "I have a feeling that you may behind this." Danny began to protest and stopped and looked at her wife. Megan leaned against the sliding glass door waiting for Gwen answer as well. "Ten years and you show up here. Why Gwen?" "The end of freshamn year, we broke up." "You went to Califorina and slept with other people. Jesus Christ Dailey!" Keegan corrected her. She had cried for months until she heard Gwen had slept with Janet. She stopped crying that day and her feelings died. "Yes. I did." Gwen was struggling she envisioned this meeting going so much better in her head. "God Kee, will you give me a break for a second." "I am five months pregnant, the only on that deserves a break is me." Keegan got up and headed out the door. "Don't Keegan." Gwen chased after her quickly. "Are you with someone?" "What?" Keegan asked confused. "Are you and a partner expecting this baby together?" Gwen asked. Keegan looked at her sister and Danny. She shook her head. A light mist of sweat was visible on Gwen's forehead. "Good." Grabbing both of Keegan's hands in her own, she held them up to her chest. "I made a mistake. I was young and I wasn't ready for what we had. For what ..." Her words faltered "I want......I want to get to know you again." "Gwen, I am pregnant. I am going to have a baby. I am not in the mood for dating." Keegan could feel Gwen's heart pounding underneath her touch. "You need to go." Gwen placed her hands on Keegan's face and pulled her into a deep kiss. Gwen could feel her tears streaming down her face. She was grasping at straws. Keegan's hands flattened against her chest and Keegan kissed her back. Gwen arms wrapped around her waist as she tried to pull her closer. "Stop..please stop." Keegan said as she tried to pull away. "You can not cannot come in to my life and assume that I am going to forget everything that has happen. " "Feel this Keegan." Gwen pressed Keegan's hand to her heart. "This has been broken for so long that I don't want to hurt anymore." "You hurt me." Keegan's defense began to breakdown. "You threw us away when you slept with Dailey. " She pulled her hand away and began to cry. "I don't want to hurt anymore." Gwen wrapped the smaller pregnant woman in her arms. "I promise it will never happen again. Keegan just...I am just asking for a chance. A chance for us again." Gwen kissed the top of her head. "God, please give me another chance, I don't want to lose you." "I don't know if I can." Keegan sobbed in Gwen's shoulder. "At least try..Keegan. Tell me that you will try." Gwen relaxed for the first time since walking into the Martin's house. She had Keegan in her arms again. She may not have been welcome, but she felt the walls around her heart beginning to crumble. Pulling Danny's head back, Meg kissed her on the lips. She could see the anguish in her sister's body as she tried to fight off the feelings for the tall blonde who arms wrapped around her. Sydney placed a chubby hand on her cheek as she smiled at him and kissed his nose. So many things had gone wrong in Keegan's life, she hoped that this was not a mistake. September 19, 2005 Sydney's small head rested on Danny's shoulder as he sucked his thumb and held on to his small blanket. Danny gently stroked his locks with her hand. Bill was sleeping, his reading glasses perched on the tip of his nose. She had tried to close her eyes and sleep for a moment but the excitement was too overwhelming. To the far side of the room, Gwen paced the waiting room like a nervous father. Gwen Lerner came back into her sister in law life fours months ago. The first couple of weeks had been complete hell. When Gwen called, Keegan would pick up the telephone and hang up on her. Slowly, Gwen began to make appearances in the Detroit suburbs. After selling her house in San Diego, Gwen moved to her grandfather's house in Troy. She was closer and her visits became more frequent. Danny remembers vividly, the day they walked into Keegan's kitchen. There was a full cooked meal and the cupboards had been filled. Gwen had gone grocery shopping and cooked dinner for Keegan. Keegan had had a tiring week. Gwen had known that there was a big client on the verge of pulling her account. Keegan and Danny had been putting in extra hours and wining and dining the client to assure her business. and Gwen was aware of it. She took it upon herself to go shopping for Keegan. "Are they together?" Danny asked Meg on night as they returned to their house. "Your guess is as good as mine." Meg said as she turned to check on Sydney. "Keegan said that Gwen mows the yard every Sunday morning." "Oh, I bet your sister loves that." Danny knew Keegan's dislike for landscaping. "It's odd. I can see that Kee really loves her..you know. In her face, as soon as Gwen appears or comes up in conversation she just lights up." "Maybe she is glowing?" "It's something but I would not call it glowing." Meg chuckled to herself. When Sarah came up for a visit in June, Gwen offered to pick her up from the airport. Meg had given Sarah and Bill a heads up that Keegan had a "friend." When Sarah stepped off the plane that warm June day, she was surprised to see her oldest daughter radiating. At first she thought it was the pregnancy, when the familiar beautiful blonde reached to take her bag, Sarah knew what caused the change. "Nice to see you Gwen. It's been a very long time." Sarah said as she took Gwen into her arms and hugged her. "How's your grandfather?" "Good to see you Mrs. Garry. Too long. Pops passed a couple of years ago. I am living in his house." Gwen explained. "Call me Sarah, please. Back in Michigan? Well, how nice." Sarah slipped an arm through her daughter's and whispered. "What a nice surprise." "Don't read to much into it Mom." Keegan quickly answered. "I'll read into it whatever I want, it's my prerogative." Trying every trick in the book to pass time, Gwen had gone from pacing to counting ceiling tiles, she had never felt so helpless in her life. How dramatically had her life changed in the last couple of months, she sold her house in San Diego and moved back to Troy. She had never sold Pops house when he passed. She was close enough to Keegan but not too close to scare her away. After asking Keegan out on a date for three weeks straight, she finally conceded when Gwen said that was what she wanted for her birthday. The first date went okay, Gwen walked Keegan to her front door to be immediately dismissed as soon as Keegan passed through the doorway. Gwen called from the car and asked for a second date. She started to mow the lawn and take on chores that Keegan did not have the energy to do or could not physically do. After a heavy thunderstorm, Gwen had gone over to Keegan's and was removing the fallen branches from her yard and roof. Keegan screamed at her to get down off the roof before she got hurt. "I thought you didn't care," Gwen teased her as she climbed down the ladder. "I don't." Keegan said and turned away. Gwen smiled to herself, one small victory. Maybe she was making headway. The Fourth of July weekend, Gwen was asked to a party at Danny and Meg's house in Lakeside. Although Keegan did not ask her too, Gwen stopped in Sterling Heights and picked her up. As the day progressed the temperature rose and Keegan's emotions were sky rocketing. "Why don't you lay down for awhile?" Meg suggested as Keegan fanned herself and complained of her ankles swelling. Keegan was about to make an off color suggestion to Meg when she felt the pressure of a hand on the small of her back. "How about we go into the air conditioning and I'll rub your feet." Gwen said. She had been trying for hours to escape the flirtatious advances of Meg and Danny's single friends. She walked behind Keegan, her hand still l lingered on Keegan's back. "It's hot out there. If you want to go home, we can." Gwen said as she helped Keegan sit in the davenport. "It's a beautiful day out there. Besides, you seem to be getting a lot of attention." Keegan sound a bit perturbed by the attention Gwen was getting. "I am only interested in you." Gwen said as she lifted Keegan's foot and removed her shoe. She did the same with the other. Keegan closed her eyes and fell asleep after a few minutes. Gwen slid next to Keegan and wrapped her arms around her. Keegan curled up against her chest and pressed her cheek to Gwen's breast. The soft snore of Keegan's slumber made Gwen chuckle. She raised her eyes to see Meg watching them from the doorway. "Is she asleep?" Meg asked as she ventured closer. Gwen nodded as her hand absently stoked Keegan's hair. "She was a bit cranky." "I love her Meg." Gwen said as she placed a kiss on Keegan's head. "I know." Meg answered as she walked outside. After fireworks over Lake Erie, Gwen drove Keegan home and helped her to bed. Little by little everyday activities were becoming harder and harder. Gwen led Keegan from the garage through the house and into the master bedroom. Reaching to pull her shirt off, Keegan could not maneuver the material over her head. Gently, Gwen gave a pull at the taut material. Once free from her shirt, Keegan look at herself in the mirror. "Oh God, I am huge." She cupped her breasts in her palms feeling the additional growth in them. "I am an elephant." "You're beautiful and sexy." Gwen whispered from the doorway. She had to step away when Keegan began to undress. Her heart was pounding in her chest. Last night she had dreamed about touching Keegan's body. Tonight she felt the familiar heaviness and the rush of blood between her legs. She had been dreaming about Keegan every night since the fundraiser. "You have been out in the sun too long today." Keegan said as she held her shirt to her chest. "Those skinny bitches with midriffs and the thong underwear they were sexy and beautiful." Gwen closed the space between them and took Keegan in her arms. Her mouth covered Keegan's. They kissed deeply. Gwen's passion was increased as Keegan's tongue touched hers. Keegan's hand grabbed her butt and pulled her closer. Groan escaped from Gwen's lips as she felt Keegan's hand cup her breast. Gwen wrapped her fingers in Keegan's thick long hair. Sensing she would lose control at any moment, Gwen broke the kiss. She still held Keegan tightly. "Gwen," Keegan spoke as she trail kisses down Gwen neck and to the exposed fresh at her collar. "Stay with me tonight." Keegan's mouth was hot and soothing. Gwen's knees became weak. Keegan slowly unbuttoned Gwen's shirt to expose her breasts to the night air. Keegan's hand reached under the waistband of Gwen's shorts. Gwen's quickly caught her hand. "If you do that, I will not be responsible for my actions." Gwen voice was husky and full of passion. A quick smile flashed over Keegan's face. "I still have that effect on you?" Keegan ran her finger down Gwen's chest. "I think its worse now." Gwen said as she stepped away and leaned on the bedroom wall. Her body was throbbing. "I want you Keegan. I do but I don't think I can control my actions." "Who says you have too?" Keegan whispered in the moonlight. She watched Gwen's body pressed up against the wall of her bedroom. Her body betrayed her today when Kelly Gardner rubbed her breasts against Gwen on purpose this afternoon. The rage that swelled through her body was so unbelievable. Gwen had come back to her. Gwen had told Meg that she loved her this afternoon. "Gwen, come to bed with me." "I don't want to be friends with you. My heart ache's for you. I don't ever want to leave you again." Gwen said as she took a step closer. "I don't want you leave." Keegan said as she pulled Gwen's lips to her own. Since the Fourth of July, Gwen had been living at Keegan's home. Each night they slept side by side. Gwen would wrap her body around Keegan's backside and try to help her stay comfortable. The midnight cravings for ice cream and Krispy Kreme doughnuts. As the weeks passed by, Gwen took on additional chores of washing Keegan's hair and assisting her with bathing. Last night as they lay in bed together, Keegan continued to toss and turn. She threw the light sheet off and push and pulled at Gwen's pillow. "What's wrong babe?" Gwen asked as she lightly touched Keegan's arm. "I just don't feel right. I can't get comfortable and I have to pee but I can't get my fat ass up out of bed." "I can help you." Gwen said as she kissed her cheek. "I don't want your help. I just want to be able to get out of bed without you helping me." Keegan sighed. Gwen got to her knees and crawled over Keegan raised stomach. She kissed her belly and spoke softly to the baby. She kissed Keegan's shoulder and lips as she reached the other side of the bed. "You could just walk around." "It's not as fun besides I like getting close to the baby." Gwen placed her face to the womb. "I like to listen to it." "It..it..you called the baby it? Keegan scolded. "I don't want to assume it's a boy or a girl...if I do that than its how do you know it's a she or how do you know it's a he? It...seemed to solved all issues." Gwen stretched out her hands for Keegan to grasp. " Quit arguing with me and get up to go to the bathroom." Keegan took her hands and let Gwen pull her up. She slid her feet off the side of the bed and Gwen help her place her feet on the floor. "Thank you." Keegan said as she slapped Gwen on the butt. Gwen curled bed in the bed. She closed her eyes when she heard Keegan call out her name. She lifted her head to see Keegan's frame in the bathroom door. "My water just broke." Keegan called out to Gwen. She went to the closet and grabbed the bag she had packed weeks earlier. "I am scared." Keegan said as she sat on the bed. Gwen was up in a second. She helped Keegan back to the bed. She handed the hospital bad to Keegan. "I have to call your sister." Gwen said as she picked up the phone. "Gwen," Keegan called out. Gwen went over to the side of the bed. She sat down next to Keegan. Gwen placed her arm around Keegan and kissed her. "Everything will be okay." Gwen reassured her . "I am going to get the car. Do you want to call your sister or your mom?" "I'll call Meg." Keegan said as she took the phone from Gwen. "Gwen, " Keegan spoke softly. "I love you." "I love you too." Gwen came back into the room and kissed her again. "We have to get going unless you want to have it in the back of the Escalade. " Walking down the hallway to the waiting room, Meg Martin looked at her family in the waiting room. The last time she had made this walk was over four years ago with Sydney's birth. There was joy and sadness during Ashley's delivery. The only sadness she felt today was that Ashley was not here to experience the joy. Watching Gwen's leg bounce up and down as she impatiently waited for news from the delivery room. Closing her eyes for a moment, Gwen came to her feet when she saw Meg walking towards the waiting room. "Are they okay?" Gwen had met Meg more than half way across the waiting room. "Mom and daughter are doing fine. It's a girl." Meg said as Gwen wrapped her arms around her. Gwen picked her up and swung her around. She turned to Bill and gave him a bear hug. Gwen slowly walked down the hallway to the recovery room. She leaned against the door jam and stared in at Keegan. Sarah had wiped Keegan brow with a small hand towel and pushed back the damp tresses. She waved Gwen over to the side of the bed. Peering down at the closed eyes of her lover, Gwen felt her lip tremble. She looked beautiful. She looked towards Sarah, who smiled and backed out of the room. Gwen lifted her hand to Keegan's cheek. She ran the top of her hand across the side of Keegan face and down the line of her jaw. Sky clear sky blue eyes fluttered opened and captured her heart. "Hey." Gwen whispered. She barely heard her own voice. "Have you seen her?" "No, not yet. I wanted to see you first." Tears gradually began to spill from the corners of her tawny eyes. She leaned down and kissed Keegan's lips. "You're trembling." Keegan smiled as a low murmur came from Gwen. "Lay with me." Keegan slid over slightly for Gwen to fit in the bed next to her. "Are you sure?" Gwen felt shy and concern with her lover's comfort. Keegan answered by tapping the bed. Gwen curled her body around Keegan's. "What did you decide for the name?" "I thought this was a decision we were going to make?" Gwen began to withdrawal. "Don't ." Keegan placed her hand on Gwen's thigh. "There were plans in motion before you came back into my life. You are part of my life and part of the baby's life. We are a family." "I think Ashley should be the middle name." Gwen said quietly. Keegan nodded as the tears caught in her throat. "Oh sweety, it's a good thing." "I know." Keegan wiped a tear from her face. "What about Christin? After your grandfather. Christin Ashley Garry ?" Gwen nodded her voice to full of emotion to speak. "Proud Poppa are you." Meg teased as she came upon Gwen peeking into the nursery glass. "Just proud." Gwen felt her chest swell with pride as the tears came to her eyes she began to cry. Christin Ashley Garry had made her part of a family. The End I wanted to thank everyone who has sent encouraging emails to keep this story going. As some of you know, I had some trouble finishing the last couple chapters. Thanks for following along. Hope you enjoyed. Special thanks my friend Kim for her direction and support. To AJ for hounding me to finish. My love to Christine who supports me in every endeavor. Please mail to kato5568@aol.com if you have comments