Something To Live For

by Grace

Chapter 11 

“Meg, I’m so sorry I let Derek hurt you again” Ben looked at Meg’s face. She had a few bruises “Did he…?” Meg knew exactly what Ben meant. 

“No, he didn’t. He tried but… you saved me. Thank you Ben” she nestled into his arms. 

“And I thank you for being here. How did you know…?” 

“I felt it. Right here “Meg pointed her heart “I felt that something was wrong, that you were hurting and I had to help you” 

“You know, you are my hero” Ben tried to smile but he couldn’t forget what he had just done. One more time he looked at Derek’s. Having noticed that, Meg said immediately: 

“Ben, you had to do it. He didn’t leave you any choice” 

“I know but…” Ben didn’t finish because Meg put her finger on his lips. 

“Don’t say anything. I know” she held him as if trying to take all the pain away from him. Suddenly, they heard Mark’s voice: 

“Ben?! Meg?!” Are you here?! they didn’t even answer when they saw Mark entering the room ‘Oh, thank God you’re OK” he sighed with relief and hugged them both. After a while he noticed Derek’s body. He didn’t even have to ask to know what was going on “I’m so sorry Ben” 

“Yeah” Ben answered and once again looked sadly at his brother “But” he added after a while “What are you doing here? Derek told me that he had imprisoned you” 

“He did but…” Mark didn’t finish because Ben stopped him: 

“Oh my God, where is Grace? Is she OK?” he looked at Mark but seeing that he doesn’t confirm, Ben became really worried “Where is she? What happened to her?” 

“Easy Ben” Mark tried to calm him down but he was pretty worried himself “Grace has been shot…” 

“Oh my God” Meg cried. 

“What?” this time Ben was rather angry. 

“Yes. Tess shot her” Mark completed the information. 

“Tess?!” Ben seemed surprised “Never mind, never mind. Where is Grace? Is she at the hospital?” 

“No. I wanted to take her there but she said that she wouldn’t move anywhere without you” 

“But where is she? I wanna see her?” 

“Come on” Mark lead the way and after a while Ben saw Maria trying to stop Grace’s hemorrhage. 

“Grace!” he shouted and ran to her. 

“Ben!” she screamed as if trying to over shout him. 

“Oh God! Are you OK? Did he hurt you? What happened?” 

“I’m fine” 

“Like hell you are” 

“I am. It just hurts a little but now that I know that you’re OK, I’ll be all right too” she gave him a big sister hug forgetting about the pain she was feeling. Ben was also very glad to see her again. He knew that she would make it. 

“I’m gonna take you to the hospital” 

“No, it’s not necessary” she objected “Mark will drive me” 

“I don’t wanna leave you” 

“Look, don’t worry about me, OK? Just stay with Meg. I know that she needs you. And you need her” although Ben didn’t admit it, God only knows how right she was. he needed Meg, he needed her more than ever. 

“Are you sure you’re going to be fine? 

“I’m positive. Besides, I’m in very good hands” she smiled and looked at Mark. 

“That’s right Ben” he agreed “Don’t worry, I won’t let anything happen to her” 

“You’d better do that” 

“I give you my word” he said and Ben knew that Grace couldn’t be more lucky. 

“Just bring her home safely” 

“I will” he promised and helped Grace to stand up “Come on sweetie. I think you should probably see a doctor” 

“Yeah. PROBABLY” she smiled and supported herself on Mark’s shoulder because she was to weak to walk on her own. 

“Are you sure you can walk? Maybe I should carry you?” he offered. 

“And maybe not” she laughed “Mark, I’m fine. I really am. Psychically. And that’s all that matters. Ben and Meg are OK. You and Maria are OK. I’m NEARLY OK. Tess should be in jail in a few minutes. I know that everything will be OK” but in her valuation she left out one person – Derek. But why? Did she forget about him or was she scared of hearing that her brother is dead? 

*** 

“Ricardo!!!” Maria screamed as she saw her brother. 

“Maria!” he ran to her and gave her a hug “What happened? Are you OK?” 

“I’m fine” 

“Where are Grace and Mark? You said they were here?” 

“They were” Maria answered “But Mark took Grace to the hospital” 

“Hospital?” Ricardo seemed surprised “Why? What’s going on here?” 

“A lot” Maria pointed tied Tess. 

“What is she doing here?” 

“She was working with Derek to destroy Ben” 

“Derek?!” this time Ricardo really didn’t understand anything “Would somebody please tell me what’s going on?” 

“I will” Ben offered his help “But first, let me show you something. This way” Ben showed Ricardo the corridor and told him to follow him. Ricardo did what Ben asked him for. Soon they found themselves in the room Derek’s body was lying in. 

“Oh my God!” Ricardo was shocked “What is he doing here? I thought that he had died that night when he fell of the cliff” 

“That’s what everybody thought” Ben started explaining “But apparently he didn’t” 

“Please, tell me everything” 

“I don’t know much” Ben paused for a moment “It was when I went to Seattle to do some research on Tess. That’s when I found out that he was still alive. He imprisoned me once again and one more time he was trying to control my life – he was pretending to be me. And from what I know, apparently Tess was working with him and while he was imprisoning me, she was imprisoning Maria, Grace and Mark. But still I don’t know the details” 

“And how did he end up here?” Ricardo looked at Derek’s body. 

“You mean DEAD?” 

“Yeah” 

“We were fighting. I mean, Meg followed him here and found me. He locked her in the other part of the warehouse” Ben pointed the door leading to a small corridor “Today… Today he was trying…” Ben paused for a moment remembering how he felt seeing Derek touching Meg “He was trying to rape her… And make me watch this” 

“Oh my God!” Ricardo sighed. Even in his job such creeps didn’t happen so often. Derek was definitely one of the biggest psychos Ricardo had ever seen “What happened later?” he asked. Ben started talking although reconstructing what happened earlier that day was really hard for him. 

“When Derek was trying… When he was trying to do this to her, I was still chained to the wall. But when he was really close to… you know… I broke the chains and ran at him. We had a really huge fight. At the end he was trying to stab me but I managed to stop him” 

“And stabbed him instead?” Ricardo looked inquiringly at Ben. 

“He didn’t leave me any choice” Ben was trying to justify himself. 

“Hey, I’m not accusing you of anything” Ricardo realized that he might have sounded a little harsh “I’m sorry if I sounded as if I was” 

“It’s OK” 

“And I’m sorry about your brother” 

“Yeah” Ben one more time looked at Derek’s dead, cold body. 

“Look, you should probably go and see how Meg is doing. I’ll take care of Derek. I’ll call everybody, OK?” 

“All right, thanks” 

“Oh, and one more thing” Ricardo called after Ben as Ben was on his way out “I’m gonna need everyone’s official statements, but you can do it tomorrow if you want” 

“I think that would be the best thing. I still have to check up on Grace” 

“I heard she had been shot. Is she OK?” 

“I hope so. I mean, it was only an arm but still it was a gunshot” 

“Yeah, give her my best” 

“I will” Ben answered and disappeared behind the door. Ricardo looked at man who tried to destroy his sister’s life so many times. Although he didn’t want to admit it, he was glad that Derek was dead. 

Chapter 12 

“You were really lucky” said Tyus as he was finishing preparing Grace’s arm “A few centimeters right and you would still be carrying a bullet in your arm” 

“Is that something serious?” she asked. 

“No, fortunately not, but it may hurt for a few days. I’ll you a recipe for a salve, you’ll have to use it for awhile. Just wait outside for a few minutes” 

“OK” 

“And one more thing” 

“Which is?” 

“I see you in two days here at the hospital. And no excuses. Understand?” 

“Yes” she smiled. 

“Look, I know you want to be tough but this may turn out to be serious so you’d better do what I’m asking you too” 

“I will. I promise” she smiled again “Thank you, Tyus” 

“Hey, it’s my job” 

“I know” she shook hands with Tyus and left his office. 

“And?” Mark looked at her with concern. 

“That’s nothing serious. I’ll just have to come for a check up in a few days” 

“Thank God!” Mark gave Grace a big hug “I was so worried about you. Really. When I think that something could have happened to you…” 

“Look” she put a finger on his lips “I’m fine. Everyone is fine” 

“Yeah, except for Derek” Mark added but after a second he realized that Grace didn’t know about Derek’s death. 

“What do you mean?” she was surprised. 

“Derek…” Mark started but didn’t really know how to tell Grace that her brother was dead "He… Ben… You see, they had a fight and… Derek was trying to kill Ben but Ben wouldn’t let him and so…” 

“Is he dead?” Grace asked straight away knowing exactly what Mark was trying to tell her. It seemed as if she was somehow prepared to hear these news. 

“Yes” he confirmed “Grace, I’m so sorry” 

“Don’t be… You shouldn’t be sorry after what he was trying to do to you on that island” 

“Maybe, but…” 

“I know, I know. You should never wish death to anyone, right? Especially your brother. But when I think of all the horrible things he’s done… I mean, is that a sin to feel relieved that he’s gone? I can’t help it. Maybe he was my brother but…” Grace started crying and Mark held her in his arms tight. 

“Ssshhh. It’s going to be OK. I know it’s hard for you but I’m here and I’m not going anywhere. I won’t leave you. I promise” 

“I know. And thank you. I really need you right now. To help me get through this” 

“That’s why I’m here” he started rubbing tears from Grace’s face and kissed her gently “I love you” 

“I love you too Mark” she answered and one more time nestled into his arms “You know what’s really sad?” she looked at him but seeing that he had no idea what she was talking about, she continued “That tomorrow the whole town, well maybe except for Tess, will be celebrating his death… including me. I mean although he was my brother, I can’t feel deeply sorry that he is dead. Does that sound cruel?” 

“No, of course not” Mark answered “Considering the fact what Derek has done to you and Ben” 

“And you…” Grace looked at Mark with tears in her eyes “I can’t just simply forget that he tried to kill you. It’s a miracle that you’re alive” she paused for a moment “And tell me how am I supposed to feel sorry about a man who has done so much evil? I can’t, Mark. I can’t, even if this man was my brother” 

“That’s understandable” 

“You know, there is something that really hurts me in all this. But it’s not the fact that Derek is dead but the fact that my brother ended up being hated by everyone he meet, except for such a psychos like him. God!” she screamed “I really must be evil to be glad about my own brother’s death” she was upset about what she was saying but she couldn’t help the way she felt. 

“Hey, don’t do this to yourself. You have a right to feel that way” 

“Do you really think there’s any excuse for my behaviour?” 

“Of course there is. That’s understandable. After everything Derek has done to your family, you can’t help feeling relieved” 

“You’re right. I am relieved, not glad, but relieved. Because I know that he will never hurt anyone again” 

“It’s going to be OK” he tried to comfort her “You’ll see” 

“I hope so” 

“Grace!” they heard Tyus’s voice “Here’s the recipe. And remember to come for a check up” 

“I will. Thank you, Tyus” 

“And let your hand rest for a while, OK?” 

“I’ll try” she answered and Tyus went back to his office. 

“Come on” Mark took her hand “I’ll take you home” 

“Sounds like a plan to me” she smiled, well at least tried to, and they left the hospital. 

*** 

Meg saw Ricardo and Ben coming back. Ben looked really down. She was sure that Ricardo wanted to know everything and asked Ben for all details and she knew how hard it must have been for Ben talking about his brother. She came closer to him. 

“Are you OK?” she asked with concern. 

“I’m fine” he tried to smile “But how are you?” 

“I’m all right” 

“You should take some rest. I’ll drive you home. Ricardo…” Ben turned to him but Ricardo already knew what Ben wanted “Sure, I can take care of Maria. You make sure that Meg is OK” 

“I will. Thanks” he answered and turned to Maria “If you want me to drive you, then…” 

“No, I’ll be fine. You go with Meg” she wasn’t sure if she really meant good by saying this or if she only wanted to put off the hard conversation with Ben. Sooner or later she would have to tell him the truth about Benjy. 

“Thanks Maria” he answered and came back to Meg. When they were going out, they heard Ricardo’s voice: 

“Hey, Evans” 

“Yeah?” Ben turned away and Ricardo threw the car keys to him. 

“Take mine” he said. Ben apparently forgot that he had no car “I’ll call the back up” 

“Thanks, Ricardo” Ben replied and took Meg’s hand. 

“Ready to go home?” 

“Absolutely” she answered and he opened the door to the car “Ben, are you sure you can drive?” 

“Yes” he answered, they got in and started driving. 

“Do you have the key to Surf – Central or shall we go to my place?” Ben offered. Although that was something she wanted more than anything in the world, she replied: 

“No. Please drive me to Surf – Central. We have a spare key under the doormat” 

“How original” Ben smiled. 

“I know, not very inventive but works” 

“Have you called your parents?” 

“I tried but the line was busy. I guess someone was already calling them about us or they were calling the police” 

“Don’t worry. You’ll meet them very soon” Ben said and sped up a little. When they reached Surf – Central, Meg’s parents were already there. 

“Meg, sweetie” Joan started crying “Thank God you’re OK” Joan came closer to her daughter and gave her a big hug. 

“Mom? Dad? What are you doing here?” 

“Mark called us and told us what was going on. I’m so glad you’re all right” Joan one more tome hugged Meg. 

“Yes. Thanks to Ben” Meg looked at him lovingly. 

“Yeah right. Thanks to Ben you could have been killed” Hank gave Meg a hug and looked icily at Ben. 

“Hank!” Joan knew this was not the time to argue. 

“Dad!” Meg nearly shouted “How can you say that? Ben risked his own life to save me” 

“Yeah. He always does” 

“Dad, please…” 

“She’s right” Joan turned to her husband “They are very tired and I’m sure they don’t need you preaching right now” 

“That’s right, we don’t” Meg agreed “Look, why don’t you go home. I really need some rest right now. This has been a long day. I think I’ll go to sleep. You should too” 

“I guess you’re right” even Hank had to agree with that “Come on Joanie, let’s go home. We’ll check up on Meg tomorrow” 

“Yes, I think that would be the best mom” 

“If you say so. But are you sure you’re going to be OK?” 

“I’m positive. Besides I have Ben here with me” Meg took his hand and Joan knew that no matter what happened, Ben was always the person Meg felt safe with. 

“OK. Bye sweetie” Joan and Hank one more time hugged their daughter and left. 

“Oh gosh!” Meg sat on the coach “This really was a hard day. For all of us. I think you should go home and get some sleep to” 

“Oh no!” he objected “There’s no way I’m gonna leave you here alone” 

“Ben, I’m fine. Besides Mark will be home any minute” 

“Still I don’t think it’s a good idea if I leave you here” Meg didn’t think it was a good idea either but she couldn’t stop Ben from many other things he had to do. 

“I will be fine. And you should probably go and see Benjy. I know you want that” 

“Meg, I…” 

“That’s OK. I understand. He is your son. You wouldn’t be yourself if you didn’t want to make sure whether he is all right” 

“You are amazing, you know?” Ben looked at her with admiration “After everything you’ve been through today you still keep thinking about everyone else instead of focusing on getting better” 

“Ben, I won’t get better knowing that you are not OK. That’s why you should talk to Benjy” 

“I think you’re right” Ben sighed “Thank you” 

“You’re welcome” she answered. Ben one more time looked into her eyes. The only thing he wanted to do was to take her in his arms and kiss her but he knew that they still had lots of things to discuss before they move any further. He took her hand and then wrapped his arms around her. 

“Goodnight” he said “Sweet dreams” 

“To you too” she replied and slowly pulled away “Good bye, Ben” 

“Bye” he answered and left. Meg went to her room and started wondering if she and Ben had a future after all. Yes, maybe Benjy was Ben and Maria’s son but now she knew that Ben loved her. Really loved her. And she knew that love was the most powerful feeling in the world… 


Chapter 13 

Ben went inside the house just to see Maria in tears. 

“Maria?” he called but she didn’t hear him “Maria?” she touched her arm. She turned to him “Maria, what’s wrong?” he asked. 

“Oh God!” she cried. 

“What? Is this something about Benjy. Is he all right? Where is he?” 

“He is fine. He is asleep. He wanted to wait up for you but I told him that you would be late so he decided to get some sleep and talk to you in the morning” 

“That’s good” 

“But you are right. This tears are about him” 

“What do you mean?” he was surprised. 

“Ben, there is something I need to tell you. But before I do, I just want you to know that I have never, ever wanted to intentionally hurt you or Meg” she started to fall apart. 

“What are you talking about? Why would you hurt me or Meg? I don’t understand” 

“You will when I tell you the whole truth about Benjy” 

“What truth? Maria, what are you talking about?” 

“Ben I… This is really hard for me but you deserve to know the truth… I’m just sorry that I didn’t know earlier” Maria looked at Ben knowing how much this was going to hurt him. 

“Didn’t know what?” Ben was becoming a little bit impatient “Can you please be more clear with me?” 

“Look” Maria paused for a moment gathering her thoughts “Benjy… he is… he is not…” she stopped because she had no idea how to tell Ben the news. 

“He is not what?” Ben looked at Maria worried. 

“He is not your son” finally she threw it out. 

“Excuse me?” Ben wasn’t sure if he herd it right “Did you just say…?” 

“I said that Benjy wasn’t your son” she repeated. 

“What the hell are you talking about? Of course he is my son” 

“He is not, OK? He is not!” Maria shouted “Benjy is not your son!” 

“Maria, are you crazy?! We’ve run a paternity test. It proved…” 

“Benjy is Derek’s! You are identical twins so the paternity test came out positive” Maria screamed finally saying the whole truth. She looked at Ben waiting for his reaction. But he was only staring at her without making a noise. He didn’t even move, he was so shocked. One more time he looked at Maria but the expression on her face didn’t disappear. He knew that he didn’t mishear. Maria told him that Benjy was Derek’s son” 

“So, does that mean that you…” Maria knew that he was about to ask her about her and Derek. 

“No” she denied “I didn’t have an affair with Derek” 

“Then how? I don’t understand. How can he be Derek’s if you didn’t…” 

“He is not mine either” Maria started explaining “He is Tess’s?” 

“Tess’s?!” Ben was shocked “Benjy is Derek and Tess’s son?” 

“Yes” Maria confirmed “I know it’s hard to believe…” 

“Hard to believe?” Ben sighed “It’s absolutely unbelievable” 

“Ben I’m so sorry that I let Derek and Tess hurt you and Meg” 

“It’s not your fault, Maria” 

“It is. If I had remembered what happened in Seattle, Derek and Tess wouldn’t have succeeded in realization of their sick plan” 

“But what was their plan? I don’t get it. What would they gain by breaking up Meg and me?” 

“Oh, they would gain very much” Maria laughed. 

“What do you mean?” Ben still didn’t understand. 

„Derek and Tess wanted to break up you and Meg so that she is out of your will“ 

“My will?” 

“Yes. And then they take care of us… You know, a car accident or something…” 

“And then Benjy inherits all the money” Ben continued “And of course Derek and Tess take care of the money since Benjy is under age” 

“Exactly” 

“Oh God! I can’t believe that they would actually do something like that. That’s insane” Ben leaned against the wall “I think I need some fresh air” Ben headed to the door “Don’t wait up” 

“OK” Maria answered and went to her room. Ben chose a pier as his destination. He always used to go there when he wanted to think. And today he definitely had a lot to think about. He couldn’t believe that his own brother would actually do so much evil to him. He also couldn’t believe that the boy he thought was his son, was in fact his nephew. How was he supposed to deal with all that? His life with the woman he loved was nearly ruined thanks to his brother… Nearly. That was what he was holding on to – his future with Meg. He knew that no matter how much he would try, he would never take back all the tears she cried because of him, but he made a promise that he would never let Meg cry again. He only prayed to God that she lets him take care of her for the rest of their lives. 


*** 

Meg couldn’t sleep. She was very tired but all her thoughts were whirling in her head and they made her stand up and go downstairs for a cup of hot coffee. But when this didn’t help, she decided to have a stroll on the beach. She knew that this would help her get through the night. She came back to her room and get dressed. She wrote a note to Mark in case he wakes up and wonders where she is. Slowly she went out of Surf – Central and started walking towards the pier. When she came a little bit closer, she noticed that someone was sitting under the pier probably as laden as she was. And one gaze was enough for her to know who it was “Ben?” she thought to herself “What is he doing here?” Not even trying to answer that question she started walking to him. She knew she couldn’t simply walk away. “Ben?” she said once again this time aloud as she placed her hand on his shoulder. He didn’t even have to look around to know who it was. Her warmth was enough. 

“Meg?” he said still staring at the ocean “What are you doing here?” he asked this time looking at her, thanking God for this wonderful gift he had sent him. 

“I could ask you the same. What are you doing here in the middle of the night?” she looked into his eyes and she knew “Oh my God! Something happened, didn’t it? Is it Grace? Is she…” 

“No, no, no” Ben stopped her “Grace is fine. She is asleep” 

“Than what’s going on?” Meg looked again straight into Ben’s eyes and saw all the pain he was trying to hide “Ben, please, tell me” she asked. He looked at her beautiful face and her eyes full of compassion. And suddenly he felt that he wouldn’t stand it any longer – he took her hand, pulled her closer and held her in his arms so tight that he was surprised that holding someone like that was possible. Meg, feeling his arms around her, felt also his pain. She knew that she had to help him “Ben, please, tell me what happened. Please. I’m here for you, no matter what. Just tell me what’s wrong” she pulled away a little and looked at him letting him know that she wouldn’t leave him. 

“It’s Benjy” Ben said shortly but Meg of course couldn’t figure out what exactly he meant. 

“What about Benjy?” she asked with concern in her voice “What’s wrong with him? Is he ill or…” 

“No, no , he is fine” 

“That’s something we can’t say about his dad” she said not realizing how damn right she was “His dad is apparently in very bad condition” 

“You would be surprised how bad” said Ben remembering Derek. 

“What do you mean? Ben, what’s wrong with you?” 

“What is wrong with me? You know what is wrong – the fact that I’m not Benjy’s father” 

“What? Ben, what are you talking about? What do you mean you’re not Benjy’s father. Of course you are. The paternity test…” 

“You don’t understand, do you?” 

“What don’t I understand?” Meg didn’t get it. 

“The paternity test came out positive because Derek is Benjy’s father. We are twins, we have the same DNA” 

“But Maria didn’t have an affair with Derek” Meg still didn’t seem to know what Ben was talking about. 

“Maria is not Benjy’s mother” 

“What?” this time Meg really lost it “Maria is not Benjy’s mother? Then who is?” 

“Tess” Ben answered and started explaining “She and Derek were working on a very sick plan… you don’t wanna know the details… anyway, one part of the plan was to make me and Maria believe that we were Benjy’s parents and the other was to break up you and me so that I can end up with Maria. Then they wanted to kill me and Maria so that Benjy would inherit all the money, which would be theirs until Benjy is an adult” Ben stopped for a while “Doesn’t that sound like a script to a cheap movie? God, how could I be so stupid, so blind? I nearly let Derek ruin my life once again” 

“Ben, it’s not your fault. How were you supposed to know that he was still alive?” 

“I should have known” Ben hesitated for a moment and after a while he continued “You know, you were right when you told Casey that all I did was hurt you. First, I pushed you away for so long and God only knows how lonely you must have felt then. Later my brother turned up on the island and went on a killing – spree and tried to kill you. Than my dead wife is suddenly alive and I can’t even convince you that I love you, not her. And finally my brother turns up again trying to kill everyone he meets. I mean, is that a life you wanted? Is that a life you dreamed about? Come on Meg, at the end everyone would be sick of this” Ben looked at Meg and noticed that she had been staring at him for a while “Meg, what’s wrong?” 

“You were there” she said shortly “You were there when I… when Casey and I were kissing by the pier, weren’t you?” 

“Yes, I was there. I heard everything” 

“Oh my God!” she cried “Ben, I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean all these things I said. I was just so angry and so hurt about you and Maria making love in the casita …” Ben tried to say something but she wouldn’t let him “Yes, Ben I know that you’ve never taken Maria to the casita. You slept with her only once, at the Deep, right? That’s why you said that you were stupid and impulsive – because you made love to her right after you saw me with Casey” Meg looked at Ben and he nodded “But Tim and Tess set things up so it looked like you and Maria had made love in the casita. But then I didn’t know that it was one of their tricks to break us up and I felt so miserable. As if my whole life had just ended. I couldn’t believe that you would do something like that – to take Maria to our place. I should have known that you would never hurt me like this. I’m so sorry Ben” 

“Hey, it’s OK” he took her face in his hands “Look, I’m so sorry I slept with Maria. I know how much it must have hurt you … but when I heard you telling all those things to Casey I just… I needed to do something to forget about it… and Maria was there so…” 

“I know. I did exactly the same thing – why do you think I kissed Casey? I wanted to forget what you had done to me or what I thought you had done. It was too much for me to handle… you and Maria sharing a son… sleeping together… I couldn’t…” 

“Hey, hey. I know” Ben one more time wrapped his strong arms around her making her feel safer and more loved than ever. She nestled into his arms as if not wanting to ever let go (I wouldn’t let go either – author’s note). 

“I’m so sorry about Benjy” she said but after a while she realized that she wasn’t so sorry at all “Ben, I want to be honest with you but please don’t hate me after you hear what I have to say” 

“I could never hate you” he smiled. 

“We’ll see” she stopped for a moment “Look, I know that you’re hurting because of Benjy and I’m sorry that this little boy you love isn’t your son but… but I can’t help feeling…” 

“Relieved?” 

“Exactly. Ben, I’m sorry. I know this is so selfish of me but I can’t help feeling the way I feel. I know I’m cruel but…” she started crying and he saw how hard it was for her to tell him the truth. He couldn’t put into words how proud he was of her for talking to him like that. 

“Meg, Meg” he looked straight into her eyes “You are not cruel at all. And if you are then I am too. Because I can’t help feeling relieved either. It hurts me that Benjy is not my son but nothing, absolutely nothing can hurt me more than loosing you again” 

“You won’t loose me, Ben. I promise” she took his hands and looked straight into his eyes “I’m always gonna be there for you. Always” she said and wrapped her arms around him to let him know that she meant everything she said. He felt that he couldn’t be happier. Now that she had her by his side, he knew that he could face everything, that they could face everything. Together. 

“Thank you” he said “But you really should go home right now” he said and sat on the sand turning hid head away trying not to look at her. He knew that if he looked at her again, he wouldn’t let go of her, and she needed to rest. 

“Oh no!” she objected “There’s no way I’m gonna leave you here alone!” she smiled and sat next to him. 

“But Meg…” 

“No buts. If you’re staying here then I am too” she said and put her head on his shoulder. He knew that there was nothing what could force her to go away. And he was glad that there wasn’t. He wrapped his arm around her and let her rest peacefully on his chest. After a while of breathing her wonderful smell, he noticed that she was asleep. 

“Sweet dreams” he said and kissed her forehead. Soon, he was dreaming sweet dreams on his own. 

Together – midnight in summer 
The air’s so much warmer 
Falling in love under starlight 
Holding on so tight – together 

I won’t leave you lonely tonight 
I want you to hold me all night 
It’s gonna be all right 
I won’t leave you lonely tonight 

Imagine – the air filled with jasmine 
The breeze blows with passion 
You and me dance with desire 
The moon is on fire – imagine 

I won’t leave you lonely tonight 
I want you to hold me all night 
It’s gonna be all right 
I won’t leave you lonely tonight 

Je t’aime beaucoup mon amour 
You are the one I adore 

I won’t leave you lonely tonight 
I want you to hold me all night 
It’s gonna be all right 
No you won’t be lonely tonight 

Te amo mucho mi amor 
You are the one I adore 
Te amo

Chapter 14 


“Hey you, sleepyheads” Ben and Meg slowly started to wake up as they heard Grace’s voice “It’s nearly noon. What are you still doing in bed?” she asked and they took the hint because they both started laughing. 

“Hi. How are you feeling?” asked Ben really worried about his sister. 

“I’m fine. I woke up and decided to go for a walk and I came across you two. Looks like you went on a compromise about the apartment” she added and the three of them started to laugh again. Grace continued “And since you were enjoying your suite, I decided to make sure that you get the full service” she smiled and gave a packet to them “It’s your breakfast. But don’t worry, it’s from Java Web” 

“You know, Ben” Meg started “There is something about you, I mean Evans family. Just look, she was shot yesterday and she is making sure that we eat breakfast” 

“I always knew that she was amazing” Ben smiled and gave Grace a hug “Thanks, sis” 

“No problem, I mean, this was your money!” she laughed and added “I’m gonna go and you two enjoy your breakfast” 

“We will. Thanks” said Meg as Grace was walking away. 

“She really is a wonderful sister, isn’t she?” Meg looked at Ben. 

“You don’t have to tell me. She is really terrific. And I don’t know what would I do if anything happened to her” 

“Don’t even think about it. She is fine. Everything is going to be OK” 

“I know” he agreed and looked at the packet Grace had brought them “Maybe we should try our breakfast?” 

“Maybe” Meg smiled and soon they ended up busy eating sandwiches and drinking juice. They didn’t even realize how hungry they really were. When they were finished with the breakfast, Meg said “I think I should go, I promised my parents to come by and talk to them. And you should probably go and see Benjy. I know you want that” 

“You’re right. I need to see him. Can I call later?” 

“I’ll be waiting” she answered and stood up “Bye, Ben” she leaned down and kissed Ben’s forehead “It’s gonna be all right” she said and started walking towards Cummings’ house. 

“Yeah!” he said and added “As long as I have you” he looked at her and knew that they would be together no matter what happens. 



Meg was sitting in Surf – Central staring at the phone. She had just visited her parents to let them know that she was OK and now she was waiting only for one thing – Ben’s call. She knew it was stupid since it was an hour ago when they were talking. She was sure that by saying “later” Ben didn’t mean one hour but she didn’t have anything better to do anyway so she kept staring at the phone. 

Her staring was brutally interrupted by a doorbell. 

“Who could that be?” she wondered and went to open the door. After a while she saw Maria. 

“Hi” Maria said hesitantly “Look, I know I am probably the last person you want to see right now but I need to tell you something” 

“Please, come in” Meg showed Maria the way and closed the door after her “Do you want anything to drink?” 

“No, thank you. I won’t be long. I’m here to apologize” 

“Apologize?” Meg seemed surprised “For what?” 

“Come on, Meg. Don’t tell me that you don’t remember how I treated you that night you came by to tell me that Ben is after you. I should never reacted the way I did” 

“Maria, you were protecting your family. I don’t blame you” 

“But I blame myself. I should have listened to you. I should have never said all those horrible things I said. I called you a bitch, you of all people! God, you’ve always been so nice to me, even when you thought that Ben and I were back together. And what about me? How do I repay you? By calling you a bitch! That’s really unbelievable. Meg, I’m really very sorry” 

“Maria, I told you that I don’t blame you. I would react exactly the same way you did if a woman who is in love with my husband paid me a visit and told me that my husband is after her. That’s totally understandable why you reacted like you did” 

“But still I shouldn’t have treated you like this. I’m sorry Meg. Please tell me that you don’t hate me” Maria looked at Meg with sad eyes. 

“Of course I don’t hate you. Why would I?” Meg paused for a moment and after a while she suggested “Look, why don’t we forget about it and try to work out things between us” she knew that this was goin to be hard so she added “Somehow” 

“I would like that too” Maria smiled “Very much” 

“So…” 

“Truce?” Maria asked and lifted her hand up. Meg took it and answered: 

“Truce” she smiled and gave Maria a hug. After a while she continued “Maria, Ben told me about Benjy. I’m really sorry” 

“I am the one who should apologize. That’s because of me that yours and Ben’s future was nearly ruined. If I had remembered what happened what happened in Seattle all this would have never happened” 

“But it did happen. And there’s no point in wondering what would have happened if… We can’t change the past” 

“Maybe” Maria agreed “But we can change the future. And I’m gonna do anything in my power to make sure that you and Ben end up together” 

“Do you really mean that?” Meg looked at Maria with admiration. 

“Of course I do. I want Ben to be happy. Really. And I know that the only way for him to be happy is to be with you. So please, don’t let him down” 

“I won’t” Meg replied and she and Maria hugged each other once again “Thank you, Maria” 

“No, I thank you for being able to forgive me everything you had to go through because of me” 

“Maria…” Meg tried to say something but Maria stopped her: 

“I should probably go home and see my… Benjy” Maria said it with pain in her voice and Meg knew how hard it must have been for her to accept the fact that she is not Benjy’s mother “I’ll see you later. Bye” 

“Bye” Meg answered as Maria was disappearing behind the door. She sat back on the sofa and started staring at the phone again. But this time she knew that even if Ben wouldn’t call, they would have a plenty of time to work things out between them. 



Ben opened the door to Benjy’s room. They had a long talk in the morning but Ben wanted to see him once again. But instead of Benjy, he saw Maria packing Benjy’s things. 

“Maria, what are you doing?” he asked. 

“I’m packing” she answered shortly. 

“That’s what I see, but why?” 

“I decided that Benjy and I shouldn’t stay in this house any longer” 

“What?” 

“Look, Ben, I know, as well as you do, that you don’t need us here. I mean, of course you will never stop caring about us but I also know that you can’t wait to start your life with Meg” 

“That’s true but…” 

“No buts. Benjy and I are leaving today. I called the estate agent. He has a house for me – Ocean Avenue 1317” 

“Ocean Avenue 1317?” Ben was starting to get it. 

“Yes” Maria smiled “A few houses from here. You won’t even notice that we’re gone. You will be able to see Benjy whenever you like, with a little difference – that you will be living here with Meg and I will be living with Benjy few meters from here” 

“Looks like you have thought about everything” Ben looked at her full of admiration. 

“That’s right, I have. Look, Benjy won’t have to change school, he will be able to spend time with his old friends around here. That’s really a good solution Ben. for everyone” 

“Do you think he will accept it?” Ben knew that this was not going to be easy to convince Benjy to move out of his house. 

“He will have to” Maria replied “Look, I know that this is going to be really hard for him but sooner or later we will have to tell him the truth about us not being his parents, or at least about you not being his father?” 

“What do you mean?” Ben was surprised. 

“Ben, I’ve been doing some thinking. I think that Benjy should be aware of the fact that you are not his father so that you and Meg can have a future together without any wondering about Benjy. But I think that we shoouldn’t tell him that I’m not his mother. I mean, Tess will spend the next few years in jail and there’s no point in telling Benjy that his mother is a criminal. It will be better for him if he thinks that I am his mother and you are his uncle” 

“Uncle?” 

“Yes, besides that’s the truth, isn’t it?” 

“Right” Ben remembered “I am his uncle” 

“Yes. And when it’s time we will tell him the whole truth. But he really doesn’t need to know right now” 

“Maybe you’re right. It would be too much to handle for a five years old boy” 

“Well then, I guess we’re set” 

“I guess we are” Ben agreed and looked at Maria “I really appreciate what you’re doing for me an Meg. I’m sure that she will appreciate it too” 

“She already has” 

“What do you mean?” 

“I talked to her today” Maria looked at Ben and noticed that he could hardly believe what she was saying “I went to her to apologize for my behaviour when she came to told me about you, I mean Derek going after her. I said many terrible things to her then and I wanted her to know that I didn’t mean that. I also told her that I would make sure that you and her stay together” 

“Maria, I know how hard it must have been for you” 

“It’s hard for all of us Ben” she took his hand “But we are going to be all right. I know that. You just don’t screw it up with Meg, OK? Promise me that” 

“I promise” Ben said and after a while he added “I’m gonna go to get Benjy. The sooner we tell him the better. Where is he?” 

“He is at one of his friends place. There is an address downstairs” 

“OK. Bye” he said and went out of the room. 


Chapter 15 


“So, how are you feeling?” asked Ben when he was sitting with Grace in the living room “And be honest” 

“Ben, please stop asking me that every five seconds” she laughed. 

“I’m sorry but I can’t help it. I’m worried about you” 

“I’m fine. Really’ she looked at him meaningly. 

“OK, OK. I promise that I’ll stop asking if you’re fine… For the next five seconds” he added and they laughed once again. Suddenly they heard a doorbell “I’ll get that” he offered and opened the door. Michael, Vanessa and Gabi were there. 

“Hi Ben” Vanessa greeted him “We just came by to make sure that you and Grace are OK. Can we see her?” 

“Sure. Come in” she answered and told them to feel comfortable. 

“Hey guys” Grace was really happy to see her friends “What are you doing here?” 

“We are here to check up on you” Gabi explained. 

“Yes” Michael continued “And make sure that you do everything Tyus told you to” 

“Don’t worry. I’m a good girl” Grace laughed. 

“We hope so” said Vanessa and hugged Grace. Gabi and Michael did the same. 

“Thank God it’s nothing serious, isn’t it?” asked Gabi. 

“No, no, I’ll be totally fine in a few days. But unfortunately I won’t be able to play volleyball for some time” 

“Yeah” Ben interposed “But I’m surprise that you say that because knowing you the way that I do I thought that you wanna play despite being shot” 

“Of course I wanna play as soon as I get a little better but I know that you won’t let me” 

“Of course I won’t” 

“That’s a pity” said Michael “Because you’re really keeping our team alive” 

“I’m sure you will survive a few days without me” Grace said and asked Michael: 

“So, how are your wedding plans? Have you changed your plans?” 

“No way” he replied “We’re getting married on New Year’s Eve. And nothing is going to stop us, isn’t that right, scoop?” he pulled Vanessa closer and kissed her forehead. 

“Absolutely” she agreed and started kissing him passionately on the lips. 

“OK, OK, that’s enough” Gabi started to separate Michael and Vanessa and the rest started laughing “But speaking about weddings” Gabi continued after a while “We have a very good news for you” 

“What news?” Ben was pretty excited, not to mention Grace. 

“Don’t tell me that you and Ricardo…” Grace nearly jumped but Gabi snuffed out her hopes: 

“No, no. As for now nothing has changed between me and Ricardo” she said sadly “The news are about Casey and Sara. I’m sure that with everything that was going on Meg forgot to tell you?” 

“Tell us what?” asked Ben. 

“That Casey and Sara are engaged” 

“Oh my God!” Grace screamed “Are you serious?!” 

“Absolutely” 

“Oh, that is so wonderful, isn’t it Ben?” she turned to him. 

“Of course it is” he agreed “But when did they…” 

“It was during their trip to San Fransisco” Vanessa started explaining “You know, a beautiful suite with a spectacular view, flowers, the bottle of champagne… Anyway, we found out about it from Joan and Hank. They were so thrilled” 

“Oh, that is so romantic!” Grace got excited “I’m so happy for Sara and Casey” 

“I’m sure that not as happy as they are” Michael said. 

“Well, that’s understandable, isn’t it? I mean, who wouldn’t be thrilled to get engaged” 

“Only a fool” Gabi answered and looked at her watch “Oh my God, it’s this late. I’m sorry but I need to come by to the station so I’d better be going, that is, if I don’t want to loose my job” 

“We should go too” Vanessa looked Michael “You have a shift on the beach, don’t you?” 

“Yes, in a fifteen minutes” 

“And I still have to write an article for Sentinel” Vanessa continued “So I guess see you later. We’ll call” 

“OK, bye” Grace answered and walked the guests to the door. 

“Look out for her, Ben” said Gabi as the three of them were leaving Ben’s house. 

“Don’t worry, I will” he promised and turned to Grace “And I mean it” 

“I know, I know” she sighed and poured herself a drink “For you and Meg” she lifted the glass and drank everything “But talking more seriously, how are you dealing with the fact…” 

“You mean Benjy?” he knew exactly what she was about to ask him. 

“Yes. I know this must be really hard for you. I mean, you loved him as your son for a couple of months. It’s not easy to accept the fact that he is not yours, is it?” 

“No, it’s not. That hurts like hell but I have to move on. We all have to move on” 

“Well, I’m sure that Meg will help you to get through all this, won’t she?” 

“I’m really counting on it” Ben sighed remembering how he held her in his arms all night long. He would give anything to feel like that for the rest of his life. 

“You really can’t get her out of your mind, can you?” Grace smiled. 

“I can’t but I don’t want to. It’s really nice to have her on my mind” 

“Well, I don’t doubt that” Grace laughed “Why don’t you go to her. I’m sure you have a lot to talk about” 

“That’s right, we do. But I can’t go anywhere right now. I am about to have a very serious conversation with Benjy. Maria and I need to tell him the truth about who I really am to him. We also have to tell him that he is moving out?” 

“He is?” Grace was surprised. 

“Yeah. Maria decided to move out and take Benjy with her” 

“And you didn’t objected” 

“No, since it’s a few houses from here. Ocean Avenue 1317” 

“Well then, in that case you really could agree” 

“Yes. Besides there really was no point in arguing with Maria. You know her, when she makes up her mind about something, there’s nothing that can stop her. But still it’s gonna be hard telling Benjy” 

“Yeah, I know. Good luck” said Grace and gave Ben a big sister hug “I’ll keep my fingers crossed for you and Maria” 

“Thanks” he smiled. 


Meg was in her room going through the old photos of her and Ben. She didn’t know why but she felt an irresistible desire to stare at his beautiful face. She stroked one of the photos gently getting lost in Ben’s eyes “Why are you so handsome, Mr. Evans? Why can’t I stop thinking about you?” she collapsed on the bed “Well probably because I’m madly and passionately in love with you. I’m just waiting for a right moment to tell you this” she put the photos back to the drawer and decided to go and see Ben. When she was on her way out, she noticed a handle of the Surf – Central doors moving and after a while she saw Casey and Sara with their luggage. When they spotted her, they immediately left the bags where they were and ran to Meg. Sara gave her a big, big hug. 

“Oh my God, Meg” she cried “Thank God you’re alive! When mom told me that Derek was back in town, I was shocked. I was so worried that something happened to you” 

“I’m fine, Sara. Thanks to Ben He saved my life” 

“So I’ve heard. He really is a hero, isn’t he?” 

“You bet he is” Meg smiled and wanted to say something but Casey wouldn’t let her as he pulled her closer and wrapped her arms around her. 

“Meg, I’m so glad that you’re OK” 

“And I’m glad that you two have finally made it. Congratulations!!!” 

“Thank you” Sara looked lovingly into Casey’s eyes and he pulled her closer for a kiss. 

“Oh, I see that you two absolutely can’t stand a second without each other. I’m just gonna go to the kitchen and do something to drink” 

“Meg, you don’t have to” 

“I know but still I want to” she answered and disappeared in the kitchen. Casey and Sara carried their bags inside and sat on the sofa. 

“You know, Casey, I can’t stop thinking…” 

“About what?” he noticed a long time ago that something was bothering her. 

‘When we were in San Fransisco, doing… well, you know what, Meg… she was here fighting for her life. I mean, while I was having the happiest time of my life, my sister could have been killed. That’s so horrible. I should have been there for her. I’m not a good sister” 

“Hey, Sara, don’t do this to yourself. You are the best sister anyone could ever have. And even better fiancée” Casey tried to comfort her. 

“He is right” Meg appeared at the door “You are a wonderful sister and don’t you dare blame yourself for anything that happened to me. Do you hear me?” 

“OK” Sara agreed “But just tell me that you are all right” 

“I’m fine” Meg answered and placed the drinks on the table “Here you are” Sara took one of the drinks and said: 

“I’m drinking for you and Ben” Sara smiled and winked her eye. 

“Oh, I think I’ll drink for that” Meg took her drink and sat on the sofa next to her sister and Casey and drank the toast for her and Ben. 


Chapter 16 

“So, what did you want to talk to me about?” asked Benjy as he sat comfortably on the sofa and was now looking at his parents, I mean, the people who thought were his parents. For a moment Ben and Maria kept staring at Benjy in silence because either of them knew how to begin this difficult conversation. 

“Sweetie” Maria finally broke the ice “We have a few very important things to tell you” 

“What things?” 

“Before we say anything” Ben joined the conversation “We want you to know that we both love you very, very much, you know that, don’t you?” 

“I guess so” 

“And that we will always be there for you, no matter what” Maria knew that this was the time to reveal the truth “But there are some things you need to know… It’s about your daddy” 

“Daddy?” Benjy was surprised and turned to Ben “Daddy, what happened to you?” when Ben heard those words he felt that his heart was breaking. Maria knew how hard it was for him, so she decided that the sooner Benjy knows the truth, the better: 

“Sweetie, I know that you loved Ben like your daddy…” 

“I still do” Benjy interposed and turned to Ben again “And don’t you love me anymore, daddy?” 

“Of course I love you” Ben answered hugging Benjy “It’s just that… you see… I’m not… I’m not your father” 

“But you are” Benjy objected “Tess showed me the photo” 

“I know, I know but… this was not me on this photo” 

“What do you mean? Of course it was you daddy” 

“No Benjy, it was not me. It was my brother Derek. He is your father” 

“But why did he look exactly like you?” Benjy didn’t seem to understand. 

“Because he is my twin brother, you know what twins are, don’t you?” 

“Yes, they look the same but they’re not the same, isn’t that right, daddy?” Benjy still didn’t understand what Ben was trying to tell him. 

“That’s right, Benjy. So, you see, your daddy Derek and I are twins and that’s why Tess thought that I was your father” Ben decided that it would be better for Benjy if he thought that Tess made a mistake and was not realizing some sick plan. 

“Does that mean that you’re not my daddy anymore?” Benjy asked sad. 

“I guess so” Ben was even more torn when he saw the pain in Benjy’s eyes “But I will always love you and will always be able to count on me, no matter what. Do you understand?” 

“I guess so” Benjy replied and asked “But if you’re not my daddy, then who are you?” 

“I’m your uncle” 

“Uncle?” 

“Yes Benjy, I’m your uncle” 

“And where is my daddy?” Ben was afraid that Benjy would ask that question but he still hesitated how to answer. 

“Your daddy… your daddy is far away. I don’t think that you will ever get a chance to see him” 

“Why? Is he on a trip?” 

“Not exactly” Ben answered and looked panicked at Maria because he had no idea what to say. Fortunately Benjy was no longer interested in his daddy. 

“Where is Tess?” he asked “We were supposed to go to the beach today” 

“Benjy” Maria started “Tess did some things… some bad things… and now she has to be punished for them” 

“Is she in jail? Uncle Ricardo told me that if someone is bad and do nasty things he goes to jail so he can think about it and become good” 

“That’s right” Maria sighed and realized that her brother was even more important for her than she thought “Tess is in jail sweetie and she will have to stay there for a while” 

“Am I going to go to jail too?” Benjy asked frightened. 

“You?’ Maria was surprised “Why?” 

“Because of all these nasty things I said to Meg. I didn’t like being mean to her because she was nice to me but Tess told me that I had to make her go away if I wanted to make sure that you and daddy… I mean uncle Ben stay together” 

“Did she ask you to say all those things to Meg?” Ben felt that if somebody doesn’t stop him, he would run to jail and kill Tess with his bare hands. 

“Yes” Benjy confirmed “And she told me to lie about that man on the beach” 

“What man?” asked Ben. 

“She told me to go with that man on the beach. She told me that if you think that I was kidnapped because of Meg, then you will hate her and make her go away” 

“Oh God!” Ben didn’t even know what to say. How could he let that happen? How could he let Tess manipulate this little boy? 

“Do you hate me now, da… I mean uncle Ben? For what I did to Meg?” 

“No, of course I don’t hate you” Ben smiled and hugged Benjy once again “I’m just sorry that Meg was so hurt and had to blame herself for your kidnapping” 

“Do you think that she will forgive me if I tell her that I’m sorry?” 

“I’m absolutely sure that she will forgive you. She is a good person, you know, she is very nice and friendly” 

“Is that why you love her?” 

“Yeah. But there are also many other reasons why I love Meg” 

“If you love her, then is she going to move back here? And are we and mommy going away?” 

“Something like that Benjy” Maria started explaining “But we’re not going to live far away from here, just a few houses” 

“Yes, and you will always have your own room here” Ben promised. 

“So you see, you will have not one house now but two. Don’t you think it’s great?” 

“I guess so. If that’s what makes you happy, that it’s OK” he smiled and Maria gave him a big hug. 

“Come on sweetie” Maria took his hand “Let’s finish packing. I’m sure uncle Ben has many important things to do” Maria knew exactly what Ben needed to do. 

“Thanks Maria, I really need to go and see her” 

“Then you won’t have to go far away” suddenly they heard Meg’s voice as she appeared at the door “It was open” she started excusing herself. 

“Meg?” Ben’s heart jumped as he saw her beautiful face “What are you doing here?” 

“I… I needed to see you… I just… I couldn’t stay away. I’m sorry… maybe I should go… you were in the middle of something” Meg turned to walk away but Ben grabbed her hand. 

“Oh no, no, no” he looked into her eyes “You are not going anywhere” he pulled her closer and God only knows how hard it was for him not to kiss her. But he had to restrain himself from this for Maria’s sake. 

“We should probably go” said Maria and took Benjy’s hand “Come on, sweetie” 

“No!” Benjy screamed and Ben and Maria nearly froze scared of what he was going to do. 

“Come on, Ben and Meg need some time alone to talk. We will come back later” Maria tried to take Benjy upstairs but he wouldn’t go. 

“No! Wait! I need to…” Benjy didn’t finish as he came closer to Meg and started talking “I just wanted to say that I’m really sorry about all those mean things I said to you and that I shouldn’t have listened to Tess when she told me that you were bad and wanted dad… I mean uncle Ben all to yourself” Meg smiled as she realized that Ben and Maria had already told Benjy the truth. Benjy continued “I love uncle Ben and I know that he loves you and I hope that you can forgive me someday and that we can be friends” this simple speech of a five years old boy made Meg really happy. But she also felt that she had a single tear rolling on her cheek. 

“Of course I forgive you, Benjy” she said “I know that you only wanted for your parents to be together, isn’t that right?” 

“Yes” 

“There’s no wonder that you hated some strange woman sleeping in bed with your daddy, right?” 

“Yes” Banjy answered again and added “But I don’t hate you anymore, do you hate me?” 

“Of course not, sweetie” Meg knelt and gave Benjy the biggest hug ever, not caring about how he would react. But he only squeezed her neck tight and wouldn’t let go for a few seconds “So, friends?” asked Meg when she finally pulled away. 

“Friends” answered Benjy, smiled and turned to Maria “Now, we can go mommy” he ran to her and they went upstairs. 

“Wow!” said Meg rubbing the tear from her cheek “That was a great speech as for five years old, wasn’t it? He really touched my heart” Meg stopped for a moment and looked at Ben “But I guess that’s something he does have in common with his uncle” 

“Do I touch your heart?” asked Ben smiling. 

“Every time I see you” she answered shortly and he knew that she felt exactly what he did every time they meet. She went closer to him, gently stroked his hair and gave him the most passionate kiss anyone can ever imagine. He could finally taste the sweetest taste ever – her lips. He was pulling her closer and closer (as if it was possible!!!) penetrating every single centimeter of her lips. But after a while she pulled away “I’m sorry” she started excusing herself “I couldn’t help it. It’s just… when I see you…. when I’m next to you… it’s like if we were…” 

“I know, I know” he answered and once again let his lips meet hers. This time their kiss was even more passionate then the first one. They enjoyed the taste of each other’s lips, each other’s smell, touch giving them both so much warmth and pleasure. When they finally separated to breathe some air, Ben said “Now it’s 1 to 1so you don’t have feel guilty” he smiled and came back to what he was doing. 

“Ben!” she tried to stopp him as he started kissing her neck “Ben!” she said a little bit louder. 

“Yeah?” he looked at her with his innocent eyes. 

“Please… We need to talk” 

“Talk?” he asked with a certain spark in his eye. 

“Yes – talk” she replied “And please don’t make it hard and stop looking at me like that. You know that I can never resist you” 

“Exactly” he smiled and kissed her once again. 

“Ben, please!” she couldn’t help blazing but she knew there were many things they needed to discuss. 

“OK, OK” he smiled and took her hand “But let’s get out of here. I need some fresh air” 

“So do I” she agreed and they went out of the house and started walking along the beach. 

“So, what did you want to TALK about?” asked Ben wrapping his arm around her waist and seeing her sight, he continued “I know, I know” he smiled and started talking more seriously “I talked to Maria in the morning. She is moving out and taking Benjy with her. They will be living a few houses from here so I will be able to see him whenever I like and he will be able to come to his old house too” 

“So, you told him that you were not his father?” Meg asked knowing how painful it must have been for Ben. 

“Yes, we did. But we didn’t tell him that Maria wasn’t his mother. It’s better for him if he still thinks that she is his mommy” 

“I guess you’re right. It would be to hard for him to loose both parents at the same time” 

“That’s exactly what me and Maria thought. We also told him that Tess was in jail” 

“How did he take it?” 

“Not bad. He was sad but he is a tough boy and he will handle it” 

“Let’s hope so. But it’s more difficult for my family to handle what happened to us. They are really shaky right now” 

“Have you told them?” Ben was surprised. 

“Yes. I told them everything about Tess, Derek and Benjy. They were really shocked, like we all were when we found out that Derek was alive and what he was planning to do” 

“Yeah” Ben sighed ‘Who would have thought that I let Derek come into my life again and try to ruin it” Ben said sadly as he remembered what Derek was trying to do to Meg. 

“How many times do I have to tell you that this is not your fault” Meg looked at Ben but she knew that no matter how many times she would say that, Ben would not believe. He needed time to deal with everything that happened. 

“He could have killed you!” Ben took Meg’s face in his hands “He even could have done something much more worse to you!” Meg became sad cause she knew exactly what Ben was talking about. 

“But he didn’t, OK? He didn’t. You saved me! You risked your own life to save me!” 

“That’s because my life is worth nothing without you. I’d rather be dead than live my life without you” 

“Ben, don’t say that!” she tried to object. 

“But it’s true! My life is nothing without you in it. And I couldn’t let Derek take you away from me, not again!” 

“And you didn’t let him, Ben! You didn’t!” she took his hand and squeezed it tight with hers “You saved my life” she smiled and wrapped her arms around him letting him feel her warmth. 

“No. I saved MY life when I saved you” he said and started kissing her gently thanking God that he really could do that not only in dreams “I love you. I love you so much that sometimes it scares me” 

“I love you too” she answered shifting her hand on his cheek “More than you can ever imagine. And I know that everything will be OK with us. I know that. You taught me that love can beat everything” 

“Ours for sure” he smiled and once again let himself get lost in her kisses. 

Chapter 17 

It had been seven days since Derek’s death and Ben and Meg’s reunion. Everything between the two of them was going perfectly – slowly they were rebuilding what they had lost because of Tess and Derek. It was not easy for either of them – Ben had to deal with the fact that Banjy wasn’t his son and Meg had to help him to get through all of this. And, although she didn’t want to admit it, especially to Ben, she was still dealing with what Derek tried to do to her. She knew that it would kill Ben if she told him how much it hurt her. But she also knew that she just needed some time to put everything behind. And of course Ben by her side. The fact that he was always there for her, whenever she needed him, was making everything much easier. She was glad that things between them were like they used to be – they held each other, they kissed each other, they could talk about everything and they could always count on one another. She had missed all that during past few months and she was extremely happy that she was getting it back. So was Ben. He also couldn’t believe that they actually made it, that after everything the world had thrown on them, they were still together. But still there was something missing in their relationship. Something they both wanted but either of them wanted to admit it. 

Ben was in his office at the Deep. He was remembering the day he hired Meg. He could still see her face when she saw the view. She smiled in a way he would like to see her smiling for the rest of their lives. This smile was everything he lived for and he promised that he would always keep Meg smiling. 

“Hey” he was suddenly brought to reality by somebody’s voice. When he turned away he saw Grace “Sorry to interrupt” she continued “But I’m going home now and I was just wondering if you have special requests for dinner” 

“No, I don’t. Thanks for asking” he answered still lost in his thoughts. 

“You really can’t stop thinking about her, can you?” Grace knew exactly what or rather who was on her brother’s mind” 

“No, I can’t but that really doesn’t bother me at all. Having her on my mind is actually very pleasant” 

“But not as pleasant as being with her, right?” she looked at him meaningfully. 

“Do you always have to know what’s in my head?” he smiled admitting that she was absolutely right. 

“Yes I do. I guess I know you too well to let you hide anything from me” 

“I guess you’re right. But that’s not really very nice when someone knows everything about you” 

“Well, I don’t know everything about you but I certainly know someone who does” she smiled letting him start thinking about Meg once again. 

“Now, this time you really know too much” 

“Do I?” she started laughing and asked him “Is there anything I can do?” 

“No” he replied but after a while he added “Actually, yes. Can you please call that number in about fifteen minutes ” he handed her a sheet of paper “And tell them that everything is set. They will know what’s going on” 

“And what is going on?” Grace was curious “And why can’t YOU call?” 

“I have many much more important calls to make. Besides, now, finally there is something that you don’t know. That’s something new” 

“Ben, please stop making fun of me and tell me” she begged. 

“No way” he laughed “You’ll see” 

“Ben!” she nearly screamed but he only started laughing louder “OK” she agreed “But I’ll get you for that” 

“I don’t doubt that” he knew his sister “But first would you please make this one, little phone call” 

“All right, all right. If that’s so important for you” 

“It is, believe me” 

“Then see you later, I guess” Grace headed the door. 

“Yeah. Bye” Ben answered and as soon as Grace disappeared behind the door, he started making these much more important calls. He dialed Antonio’s number. 

“Hello” he heard his voice. 

“Hi Antonio, it’s Ben. I’m just calling to make sure that this thing we talked about earlier is still actual” 

“Sure” Antonio confirmed “But does that mean that you finally made up your mind?” 

“Oh, I made up my mind a long time ago but I wasn’t sure if she was ready” 

“And you think that she is now?” 

“I think so. And I hope so” 

“Then I’ll be more than happy to help you” 

“Thanks Antonio, I really appreciate it. I know how hard it must be for you since Maria is your sister” 

“Look, what’s going on with you and Maria is your business, not mine. I’m your friend and I’m not gonna stop being him just because you and my sister are getting divorce” 

“Thank you, Antonio. That really means a lot to me” 

“No problem. And speaking of Maria, I spoke with her today and she seems to be handling everything pretty well so don’t worry about her. Besides he has a wonderful man by her side” 

“You mean Benjy?” 

‘Yes, he is pretty amazing” 

“I know, I know” Ben sighed and continued “Anyway, thank you very much for your help. Bye” 

“Bye” he heard Antonio’s answer and they hang up. Ben looked at Meg’s picture standing on the desk. He gently stroked her hair and lips from the photo hoping that soon he would be able to do that in reality. Everything just had to go right. It had to. 

One word, one heart, one night is all I want 
One word, one heart, one girl is waiting there for me 


Midnight, and all is well 
I heard the mission bell 
Out on the road nothing is moving 
As I speed from town to town 
Two hearts are beating fast 
But they are still many miles apart 
Oh the moon was shining on a distant shore 
Burning like a fire in my heart 
I’ve got to see her, I’ve got to say 

One word, one heart, one night is all I want 
One word, one heart, one girl is waiting there for me 
I never knew I cared so much before 
I’ve got to tell her tonight – straight to the heart 
I’m going to tell her tonight – straight to the heart 
I’ve got to tell her tonight – straight to the heart 
Like a cannonball…

Headlights are blazing through 
Turn on the radio, I hear the news 
Hand on the wheel, foot on the floor 
And on, and on, and on we go 
This car is like a friend 
Bring her a massage that I want to send 
Oh the dawn was breaking and I saw the sun 
Burning like a fire on the bay 
I’m nearly there now, I’m gonna say 

One word, one heart, one night is all I want 
One word, one heart, one girl is waiting there for me 
I never knew I cared so much before 
I’ve got to tell her tonight – straight to the heart 
I’m going to tell her tonight – straight to the heart 
I’ve got to tell her tonight – straight to the heart 
Like a cannonball… 

One word, one heart, one night, one girl 
I’ve got to tell her tonight – straight to the heart 
I’ve got to tell her tonight – straight to the heart 
I’ve got to give her my love – straight to the heart 
I’ve got to give her my love – straight to the heart 
I’ve got to tell her myself – straight to the heart 
I’m going to tell her tonight – straight to the heart 
Like a cannonball…

*** 

“Meg, sweetie, do you want some coffee?” asked Joan when she saw her daughter sitting alone at one of the tables in Shockwave. Unfortunately there was no answer. She tried once again “Meg, what do you want to drink?” But this time Meg didn’t even lift her head either. When she felt Joan’s hand on her shoulder, she jumped. 

“Mom! You scared me!” 

“I’m sorry” Joan laughed “But I was just asking if you would like anything to drink” 

“You were?” Meg seemed surprised. 

“Yes, I was. But apparently you have something more important on your mind than drinks” 

“Let me add” Sara joined the conversation when she saw her mother and sister chatting “That that is not something but rather someone, isn’t that right Meg?” Meg only smiled and Sara knew that she was 100% right. 

“Maybe” Meg answered guardedly. 

“Oh, come on Meg” Sara didn’t give up “Everyone sees that you can’t stop thinking about him” 

“Is that so obvious?” Meg laughed. 

“Unfortunately” Sara answered “But come on, you don’t wanna hide anything from your sister and mother, do you?” 

“I guess I don’t” 

“Yes” Joan added “And even if you try to hide something from us, we always know what it is” 

“Oh, you are awful!” Meg was pretending to be angry “Why can’t you just leave me alone?” 

“And let you get lost in your thoughts about Ben?” Sara asked smiling. 

“But is that something wrong that I keep thinking about Ben all the time? I mean, he is the man I love and I’ve missed him so much. I’ve missed telling him that I love him and hearing that he loves me. I can’t help that I want to make up for all the time we have waisted. I can’t help that I want to keep telling him that I love him every single second of my life. And YOU…” Meg looked at Sara “…you should know that better than anyone else, dear sis” 

“Oh my God, she’s right” Sara laughed “That’s exactly how I felt when Casey and I reunited. And even now I can’t stand a second without him by my side” 

“So you see, there’s nothing I can do about it. I can’t change the way that I feel. I won’t change the fact that everything I dream about right now is to find myself in his arms” 

“First you should find yourself in his house or correct me if I’m wrong?” Sara laughed. 

“No!” 

“No what?” Sara was surprised. 

“I’m not gonna go to Ben’s. No way. We were supposed to take things slowly” 

“And you think that’s what he really wants?” 

“What do you mean?” 

“Come on, Meg. He is probably in his big, lonely house right now imagining how wonderful it would be to have you by his side…” 

“Sara!” Meg screamed “Don’t!” 

“… How wonderful it would be to play some soft music” Sara continued “Take you in his arms and dance with you all night long. But” Sara smiled “That will never happen… I mean, since you want to take things slowly” 

“OK, OK” Meg giggled “You won. I’m going to Ben’s” 

“I knew it would work” Sara jumped out of joy. 

“It always does with me” Meg took her handbag and headed the door but just as she was going out of Shockwave, he cell phone rang. 

“Hello” she answered. 

“Hi Meg. It’s Casey” 

"Hey Casey. What happened?” 

“Actually a lot” he answered “There’s a little emergency at Surf – Central and we really need you here” 

“Now?” she was inconsolable. 

“Yes, now” 

“Can’t it wait? I’m like in the middle of something” 

“I’m sorry Meg but it’s really important” 

“OK. I’ll be right back. Bye” she said and hang up “Damn it!” she said to herself and headed Surf – Central. She kept thinking about all the incredible things Sara was talking about – how wonderful it would be to be in Ben’s arms, to feel him, to touch him, to kiss him, to hear those three magical little words. To be able to get lost in him forever… But, Casey, as a good friend of course, had to call and make her change her plans. 

It was getting dark. She was walking slowly, breathing bracing sea air, thinking how much it reminded her of Ben. When she entered Surf – Central, she didn’t notice anything strange – everything was in the right place, Casey was sitting on the coach watching baseball on TV. 

“So, what’s the emergency?” she asked curious when she got closer to him. 

“Go to your room and check” he advised and smiled mysteriously. 

“That’s strange” she thought to herself “What’s going on here?” Soon she found an answer to that question. When she opened the door to her room, she was hit by a beautiful smell – the whole room was full of white roses and lightning candles. There was a single white rose lying on the pillow. It had a note attached to it. Meg slowly made her way towards the bed and gently lifted the rose from the pillow. She touched her nose with it and suddenly felt as if Ben was so close to her. She read the note. It said “To the most incredible woman in the entire universe… I just want you to know that I’m thinking about you every single second of every single day and I can’t stop… When you look at these candles and roses, know that every single one says that I love you… Yours forever – S.B.” 

“I love you too” she said kissing the letter gently “And God only knows how much. I would give anything for you to be here with me right now” she looked lovingly at the letter and smelt the rose she was holding. 

“One word would be enough” suddenly she heard this soft voice and saw this beautiful smiling face of the man she had been thinking of the entire day. 

“Ben?” she felt that was getting hotter and hotter in the room, or rather she was getting hotter and hotter “What are you doing here?” 

“I’m making your wish come true” he smiled and she remembered what she had said a minute ago. 

“So, that was the emergency Casey was talking about?” she finally figured out what was going on. 

“Are you disappointed? Maybe that’s not the kind of emergency you were hoping for” 

“Are you kidding?” Meg screamed “This is absolutely incredible. It’s amazing. I can’t believe that you went through all that trouble for me” she couldn’t stop smiling. 

“Hey, don’t even dare say that, do you hear me? You are the woman I love and that was not trouble at all. Because making you smile… making you happy is the only thing in the world I want” 

“Well, you certainly do know how to make me happy” 

“I do?” he smiled “If you mean the roses…” 

“No, I don’t mean only the roses and candles and all the magical things you do for me. That’s no the most important thing here. What really counts is that you make me happy just by being yourself. By being Ben Evans I used to know and have always loved” 

“Well, this whole Ben Evans guy wouldn’t be who he is today if it wasn’t for one very stubborn girl from Ludlow, Kansas” 

“And this girl from Kansas wouldn’t be who she is today either, if it wasn’t for one very mysterious English gentleman. I would probably never have left Tim at the altar if I hadn’t known that in some very far away place there was someone waiting for me” 

“I’ve been waiting for you my whole life, Meg. I just didn’t know that. You are the one who showed me what life was really about… What love was really about. I pushed you away so many times but you always found the strength to come back to me again. And again. And again” they both started laughing. 

“Well, that’s because I couldn’t stand seeing you in so much pain. I wanted to help you somehow” 

“And you did. You helped me in every way possible. You opened a completely new world for me, the world I hadn’t known before. You showed me the life I hadn’t known before. You were the one who showed me that life was to beautiful to give up on it. And I’ll be grateful for this forever” 

“And I’ll be grateful that you showed me that love really is the most powerful feeling in the world and that it is able to conquer everything. There were days when I stopped believing in that but every time you kept showing me that I was wrong, proving that love is really something to live for. And it is. Sometimes it hurts to love someone but it only makes the reunion even more wonderful. And I wouldn’t take back all the tears I’ve cried because they led me to this incredible moment tonight” 

“Well, if you think that this is incredible, then let me tell you that from now on, every single moment of your life will be thousand times better than this one. And I’m gonna make sure of that” 

“The only thing I want you to make sure of is that you will always be here, with me, no matter what, because I wouldn’t stand loosing you again, Ben. I just wouldn’t” she started crying as she got scared that the little moment of happiness they shared would be taken away from them again. 

“Hey, hey” he started rubbing the tears from her cheeks “Don’t even think like that, do you hear me? We are together and there is nothing, absolutely nothing in the world that is able to change that. Do you understand me?” he took her face in his hands and looked deep into her eyes. He saw how scared she was of loosing him again, how scared she was that something was going to come between them again. But he promised to himself that he would not let that happen “Meg, you are the woman I love. The one I have ever truly loved. And I will not let anything or anyone ruin what we share. Not now, not ever. Do you hear me?” 

“Loud and clear” she smiled through tears “I just wanna know one thing” 

“What?” 

“Where the hell did they get you from? I mean, I thought that such men exist only in fairytales” Meg looked at him lovingly and he smiled “What?” she didn’t understand his reaction “Why are you laughing? Was it that funny?” 

“No, of course not. It was beautiful what you said. It’s just that was exactly what I keep thinking about you. I mean, I can’t believe that I have been so blessed to meet you on my way” 

“Well, you should probably thank Tim for this one. Indirectly of course. I mean, I would have never probably made it to Sunset Beach if I hadn’t found out that he was cheating on me with Connie” 

“Maybe you wouldn’t have come to Sunset Beach then but still I think that we would have meet somehow. Because if two people are meant to be together, they will always find their way to each other. That’s what love is all about” 

“I guess you’re right” she smiled “Love really is incredible” 

“I know. Just look at us, at everything that has been thrown at us. And no matter what that was, we found our way out” 

“Yes we did. And now there is nothing that can stop us from being together” 

“You are absolutely right. And I couldn’t be happier, now that I know that we have a wonderful future together. But there is one thing that would make my completely happy” 

“And what is that?” Meg was curious as she saw a sparkle in Ben’s eye. 

“That you answer one question for me” he smiled mysteriously. 

“Go ahead” she asked and after a second Ben pulled something from his pocket. At first she didn’t know what it was, but then she noticed a small box and when Ben started to kneel, she knew exactly what he was going to ask her. 

Ben opened the box and she saw it. The ring. He pulled it out of the box and started talking: 

“Look, I know that I put this ring on your finger so many times and you kept taking it off but when I put that ring on your finger for the first time, I promised to love you until my dying breath. And when I saw that ring a few days ago I made a promise to myself that when I put it in your finger once again, I would make sure that it stays there forever. And I think that now is the right moment to start keeping that promise. I think that it’s finally time to start our life together. So now I’m asking you – Meg Cummings, will you do me the honor of becoming my wife… again” he added and Meg started laughing “I know that you’re scared that this may not work out but I promise you that it will. I will do anything in my power to make you happy and safe. And I will make sure that you will never, ever feel insecure about our relationship. And I will never let you forget how much I love you. That is, if you let me” he looked at her but she remained speechless “Meg, if you think that it’s too soon to…” 

“Ben, just shut up, please and let me answer your question, unless you don’t wanna hear an answer” 

“Of course I want to hear it. So, what do you say – will you marry me again?” 

“I think that you already know the answer, just like you did the first time when you proposed to me” she smiled. 

“Does that mean that you will marry me?” he looked into her eyes and already knew the answer. He only let her scream cheerful “Yes” before he gripped her in his arms and started kissing her passionately. When he finally remembered himself, he knelt and said “And again – let me make it official” he gently took her hand and put the ring on her finger. Then he kissed her both hands and stood up. 

“You know” she started after a while “I was scared that you would never ask” 

“Are you kidding?” he smiled “I have been dreaming of this moment for such a long time. I was so afraid that you would say no” 

“How could I say no to a man like you? Do you think I’m crazy or what?” she asked and he started laughing and said: 

“As a matter of fact yes. I think that you are crazy. If you weren’t, you would have given up on me a long time ago” 

“Well maybe you’re right. I am crazy. I am absolutely crazy about you. And I would be stupid if I had given up on someone like you. Someone who makes me feel so wonderful” she took his hands in hers “I can’t believe that you’re here” 

“Well, believe it because I’m not going anywhere” 

“I really like the idea of you not going anywhere” she smiled and kissed him gently on the lips “It’s a pity I wouldn’t get to be married by the end of year 1999” 

“And who said that?” 

“Come on Ben. All days till the end of the year are probably busy. We should look around February or even March” Meg was thinking loud. 

“And what would you say about getting married on December 24th 1999?” 

“What did you just say?” Meg jumped “Did you just ask me to marry you on December 24th 1999?” 

“Yes I did” answered Ben grinning. 

“Oh my God!” Meg screamed “You are absolutely amazing!!! How did you manage to set everything?” 

“Oh, I have my ways” he smiled. 

"Well, I really like your ways” said Meg pulling him closer for a big, passionate kiss but suddenly she became more down-to-Earth “But Ben, what about Maria? You are still…” 

“Only for the next ten days. Then my divorce will be finalized. Maria signed the papers a long time ago so it’s high time we were finally divorced” 

“I don’t believe it! A Christmas wedding! That’s absolutely incredible. You are too much!” 

“No, I’m just in love” he smiled, looked into her eyes and added “I love you Meg Cummings, and soon Evans. And I will never stop loving you no matter what” 

“I love you too. With my whole heart, with every part of me” she looked at him realizing that her cheeks were wet again. 

“Are you crying?” he got upset and worried. 

“Yes I am but don’t worry. These are the good kind” 

“Well that’s good. Because I promised you on the day of our engagement… I mean, our first engagement” they both started to laugh “That I would only cause the good ones. And now I’m finally gonna keep that promise” 

“Well, you can make my cry with the good tears for the rest of my life” she smiled and wrapped her arms around him. He gently stroked her hair silently whispered to her ear: 

“And I will. I promise. I will never let you cry because of me again. Never” he vowed and held her closer trying to make her the safest he could. She slowly started to pull away letting him see her face again. He looked at her with so much love and passion. He knew that she was feeling exactly what he did, he could see it in her eyes. He knew that she wanted to be with him just as much as he wanted to be with her. He had missed her so much and now when she was standing in front of him, so beautiful, so perfect, with her eyes shining so bright, he completely lost his breath. He hadn’t even noticed that she was sooo beautiful. He gently stroked her cheek and started kissing her, first very gently and then more and more passionately trying to feel every single centimeter of her lips on his. He didn’t want to miss a single touch of her hands running up and down his back. He felt a thrill every time she touched him, every time she kissed him. He felt her shivering body by his. He had almost forgot how wonderful that felt. He felt that she was slowly pulling him towards bed and soon they both found themselves rolling in bed, not being able to get enough of each other. When they finally stop rolling, Ben slowly started to unbutton Meg’s dress and take off her clothes. And when he saw her lying in bed completely naked, he couldn’t believe that this was really happening. But when he felt the taste of her lips again and found her hands unbuttoning his shirt and caressing his chest, he knew that this was not a dream. It was real – she was there waiting for their bodies to become one. He helped her with his trousers and soon the two of them were able to give vent to all their hidden dreams and fantasies… 


You’re looking good, I haven’t seen you for a long time 
How’ve you been, I like the way you have your hair 
But something has changed 
And I can see a woman in your eyes, and in your smile 

Remember when we’d always be together 
And we believed this love would never die 
And ever since then 
I’ve often wondered how I’d feel if we should meet again 

Well you look beautiful, you look wonderful 
You’re like an angel heaven sent to me 
You look beautiful, you look wonderful 
I’ve got a feeling this was meant to be 


When we broke apart, we both set off to find the world 
And face the storms of life, I thought I heard you calling 
When you ship hit the rocks 
And here we are, survivors from the sea 
Just you and me, out on the beach 

If you have time, let’s get a cup of coffee 
And talk about all the feelings that we share 
Cause when there’s still love 
You know it from the moment that you see those eyes again 

And you look beautiful, you look wonderful 
You’re like an angel heaven sent to me 
You look beautiful, you look wonderful 
I’ve got a feeling this was meant to be 

Yes, I know it, this was meant to be 
You look wonderful 
Now I know it, this was meant to be

Chapter 18 


Ben woke up in the morning just to see Meg sleeping peacefully on his chest. He gently stroked her hair not wanting to wake her up. 

“She is so beautiful” he thought to himself “How did I ever get to be so lucky to have her in my life. She really is a gift from heaven” he smiled and for a moment he remained staring at her face. Then he gently kissed her forehead and that made her start waking up. 

“Good morning, beautiful” he whispered. 

“Good morning” she smiled and lifted her head to give him a kiss “Did you sleep well?” 

“Well, I didn’t exactly get much sleep” he smiled meaningfully “But that was the most wonderful night I had had in a long time” 

“For me too” she smiled and once again leaned to give him a passionate kiss “It was really incredible to be with you again… in every sense of the word. I have dreamed about it for such a long time” 

“Well I promise that from now on, I’m gonna make all your dreams come true” 

“I have only one dream – to be with you forever” 

“Well, that’s exactly what’s gonna happen” he looked at her lovingly and they started kissing passionately. 

“I love you” she whispered. 

“I love you too” he replied and let her caress his body with her gentle touch and cover it with kisses. Just as they were about to make love again, Mark opened the door and entered the room. They automatically pulled away from each other. 

“Oooops” Mark was shocked “I had no idea… I am so sorry…” he started excusing himself and edged away. 

“It’s OK” Ben and Meg started laughing “Come in” Meg invited him “What’s up?” 

“Nothing. I was just wondering why you were staying in bed so late but I guess now I know the answer” he smiled and Ben and Meg started laughing again. Mark continued “I think I’ll probably go now. The breakfast is ready, Meg, that is, if you still need food to live” he winked his eye. 

“I’m afraid so” she giggled “Thanks, Mark” 

“No problem” he answered and left the room. He slowly made his way downstairs and saw Grace waiting for him. He even forgot to greet her, he was so excited about what he had seen. 

“You are not gonna believe what happened” he started. 

“What?” she was surprised. 

“I just saw Meg…” he stopped for a moment. 

“Oh, that’s strange considering the fact that she lives here” Grace laughed ironically. 

“…In bed” he continued” …With your brother” 

“Excuse me?” Grace was shocked. 

“I’m telling you. They were lying in bed, kissing” 

“You’re kidding, right?” Grace still couldn’t believe what Mark was saying. 

“No, I’m not” 

“Oh my God!” she screamed “That’s wonderful!” she ran straight into Mark’s arms. After a while, she noticed Ben and Meg going down the stairs. 

“So, what’s that about?” asked Meg. 

“About you” Grace answered smiling “We are so happy for you” 

“Well, then let us make you even more happy” Meg said proudly and stopped for a moment to observe Mark and Grace’s excited faces “We’re engaged!!!” she screamed. 

“Again, may I add” Ben smiled. 

“Oh my God! Oh my God!” Grace shouted “That’s incredible!” she jumped and hugged them both “Congratulations!” 

“Thank you” Meg answered and looked at Ben. He was happy. For the first time in a long time, he was really happy. 

“Have you told your parents?” asked Grace. 

“No, not yet. Actually, we are on our way to Shockwave to tell them the news” 

“Well, I’m sure they will be just as excited as we are” 

“Yeah, especially Hank” Ben added reminding all of them that Hank wasn’t exactly your biggest fan. 

“Ben” Meg looked at him lovingly “My dad will be happy for us. I know that” she took his hand. 

“I hope so” Ben answered and they slowly started going upstairs to go out. 

“Good luck!” Grace wished as they were going out. 

“Oh, I think luck is something I need right now” said Ben as they were on their way to Shockwave “I hope your father won’t throw me out before I say anything” 

“Don’t worry” she comforted “Everything will be OK with my dad” she said and they made the rest of their way in silence, just holding hands and enjoying each other’s touch. When they entered Shockwave they saw Joan and Hank bustling between the tables. But when they noticed their daughter they decided to rest for a while. At the same time Sara and Casey entered the restaurant, saving Meg telling them everything later. 

“Hi you two” Joan greeted them and hugged Meg and then Sara “Hi Casey, Ben” she looked at them and smiled. But Hank wasn’t so happy to see Ben at all, he only shook hands with him. 

“So, what brought you here?” Joan asked looking at Meg and Sara. 

“Hunger” said Sara straight away and everyone started laughing. 

“And you, Meg? Are you here for the same reason?” 

“Actually, no. I am here to tell you something. Something very important. And I hope that you’ll be as happy about it as I am” she took Ben’s hand and squeezed it tight. Joan, Hank, Sara and Casey kept staring at her as she continued “Ben and I are engaged. Yesterday he asked me to marry him once again” 

“And you couldn’t be more happy to hear this question, could you?” Sara smiled and hugged her sister “Congratulations! To you too” she came closer to Ben and gave him a hug. 

“Thank you Sara” 

“We are so happy for you two” Casey added and hugged Meg and shook hands with Ben “We couldn’t really have heard a better news” 

“Yes, that’s wonderful” Joan agreed “Isn’t it, honey?” she turned to Hank but he wasn’t so enthusiastic. He only added short: 

“Yes” and looked at Ben with a grain of salt “I’m just wondering if there’s going to be any wedding, I mean, the real one” 

“Dad, please” Meg couldn’t stand her father not being happy for her “Don’t do that!“ 

“Do what?” he astonished “Make sure that my daughter doesn’t end up alone in her wedding dress, crying” 

“Dad, just stop it, please” Meg tried to protect Ben. 

“No Meg, he’s right” they were all surprised to hear Ben say that “He’s right” Ben continued “He has a right to feel that way. I mean, ever since you got involved with me, I’ve promised to make you happy so many times and so many times I’ve broken that promise that there’s no wonder your father keeps wondering if I really love you. But” he turned to Hank “I want you to know that I love your daughter with my whole heart. And I have every intention of marrying her and spending the rest of my life with her. And it makes me really happy that she wants the same. And I promise that I will never let her cry because of me again. And this time I mean it. I will show her every way I know how, how much I love her and how much she means to me” Hank looked at Ben still not being sure if he could trust him but something kept telling him that this time he could. 

“If you really mean what you say” he said to Ben “Then welcome to the family” 

“Thank you, Hank. I really appreciate you giving me one more chance” Ben was glad that he and his future father in law came to some kind of agreement. 

“Well, if that makes my Meg happy, then I think I can do that” answered Hank smiling. 

“I does make me happy. Thank you daddy” she gave him a kiss on the cheek “I’m sure that you will love Ben as much as I do” 

“And I hope that he loves you as much as I love you” 

“He does, daddy. I know that” 

“I hope you’re right” 

“I know I am” she smiled and wrapped her arm around Ben’s waist “I think we will be going. We have a breakfast to eat at Surf – Central” 

“Aren’t you gonna eat with us?” asked Sara disappointed. 

“No. I’m sorry but Mark prepared the breakfast for us and I don’t want it to be wasted. We’ll see you sometime” 

“OK” Sara agreed and once again hugged Meg “Congratulations, sis” 

“Thanks, Sara” she answered and turned to her parents and Casey “Oh, and one more thing – the wedding is on December 24th” 

“On Christmas Day?” Joan was surprised. 

“That is so wonderful!” Sara was chuffed. 

“I know” Meg smiled and took Ben’s hand “Come on. Bye guys” she smiled once again. 

“Bye” they answered and Ben and Meg went out of Shockwave. 

“Wow, we did it” Ben was amazed. 

“You did it. Dad was really touched by what you said. I knew you would make up” 

“Well, I meant every word I said” he pulled her closer and wrapped his arms around her. 

“I know” she looked into his sparkling eyes and gave him a passionate kiss “Ben, can you tell me one thing?” she asked after a while. 

“Whatever it is” he smiled. 

“How did you do all that yesterday?” 

“Oh, as I said, I have my ways. They are called Casey and Grace” 

“So, they knew everything?” 

“Casey did. Grace only made one call but she didn’t know what I was planning to do” 

“Well, your plan worked out perfectly, didn’t it?” Meg smiled seductively. 

“Oh yes, it did. But even in my dreams I didn’t imagine that this would be so wonderful” 

“Neither did I. It was like a whole new experience for me, a completely new world” 

“Well, soon we will have a little world on our own” 

“I can’t wait” she wrapped her arms around him and kissed him “I love you” 

“I love you too. And don’t ever forget that” he asked. 

“I won’t” she answered and got lost in his embrace. 

*** 


“Ben?” Maria was surprised to see him in her house “What are you doing here? I thought you were spending the day with Meg. You were supposed to…” 

“I did. Yesterday. She said yes” 

“So, you are getting married?” 

“Yeah. And that wouldn’t be possible if it wasn’t for you. Thank you Maria, I really appreciate what you’re doing” 

“It’s not a big deal. You and Meg are my friends and yesterday, when you told me that you were going to propose to her, I vowed that I would do anything to make everything easier for you” 

“And you are” Ben smiled “Thank you” 

“Uncle Ben!!!” suddenly they heard Benjy’s cheerful voice. 

“Hi, Benjy” Ben gave him a hug “I have great news for you” 

“What news?” 

“I’m here to tell you that soon you are going to have aunt Meg” 

“Why?” 

“Because I’m going to marry her in a few weeks” said Ben proudly. 

“Cool!” Benjy was excited “Now I’m gonna have two aunts – aunt Gabi and aunt Meg” 

“That’s right, sweetie” said Maria although she couldn’t forget the fact that Gabi wasn’t really Benjy’s aunt. But he didn’t have to know “And they both love you very much” she added. 

“I’m really glad that you are happy that I’m marrying Meg” 

“I’m happy because I know that you love her” 

“That’s right. I do love her very much” 

“I’m happy that she’s going to be my aunt” 

“I am too, Benjy. I’m very happy” said Ben and hugged his nephew. 



Chapter 19 

It had been nearly two weeks since Ben and Meg got engaged and either of them could stand more than five seconds without one another. So they kept spending as much time together as they could. It wasn’t so easy since Meg decided to move in with Ben after their wedding. but they tried as much as they could not to miss a single second. They had wasted so much time, now that was high time they made up for it. 

Ben dialed Meg’s cell phone number and soon he heard her soft voice. 

“Hello. It’s Meg Cummings speaking” 

“Try Evans” he advised and she smiled. 

“Ben! Hi! I was just thinking about you” 

“You were?” 

“Yes” 

“That’s good because I couldn’t stop thinking about you either. I just couldn’t forget how much I miss you and how much I wish that you were here with me” 

“I miss you too, Ben. And I would give anything to be with you right now” 

“That’s exactly what I wanted to hear” he rejoiced “I’ll be right back” he added. 

“But Ben, what are you…” she tried to ask him something but he already hang up “What are you up to, Ben Evans?” she thought to herself and looked at his photo standing in the middle of upper shelve. When they broke up, she was doing everything to hide it, but now, when they were back together, the photo was occupying respectable place in her room. 

She slowly made her way downstairs to get something to drink but she didn’t manage to do that as she heard the door bell. When she opened the door, she saw Ben holding a single white rose, smiling from ear to ear. 

“Ben?” her heart jumped “What are you doing here?” 

“I’m making sure that the woman I love doesn’t have to feel lonely anymore” he handed her the rose “Here, just to remind you how much I love you” 

“Thank you” Meg smiled and took the rose from Ben “Look, why don’t you come in for a minute” 

“Actually, I can’t. I have a very important thing to do” 

“Oh” Meg sighed “It’s a pity” 

“I wouldn’t say so” Ben smiled mysteriously “Because you will be doing this very important thing with me” 

“What do you mean?” 

‘You’ll see” he answered and took her hand “Come on” 

“But Ben!” she protested “I…” 

“No buts” he said firmly and started pulling her to the car. 

“Ben, what are you doing?” she asked again but he wouldn’t answer. Instead, he opened the door “Get in” he smiled “And don’t ask any questions” 

“Ben, where are we going?” 

“I think you already know” he replied and she saw the sparkle in his eye. Was that really possible? Was he really taking her there? To their place, to their hideaway from the world where they had created so many wonderful memories... Yes – they were going there. She could see it from the expression on his face. She decided not to say anything. She just sit silent on her seat and kept staring at Ben’s face. She knew that she couldn’t have chosen better view. 

“What?” he asked finally after about half an hour “What are you looking at?” 

“You” she answered shortly. 

“Me?” 

“Yes, you” 

“And why is that?” he seemed surprised. 

“Because I can’t believe that we’re actually doing what we’re doing” 

“So, you know what you’re doing?” he asked as if he was a little bit disappointed but on the other hand he thought that she didn’t know where they were going, it would mean that she has completely lost it. But she didn’t. 

“Yes, I do know. And I’m extremely glad that you’ve come up with this brilliant plan to take me away” 

“Don’t forget that this is OUR place and no one can take that away from us” he took her hand and kissed it gently. 

“I know” she smiled “This time I know” 

“Good” he smiled back and wrapped his arms around her. 

“Ben, you still have a car to drive” she reminded him that he shouldn’t do that while driving a car. 

“I know” he agreed “But I also have a beautiful lady by my side and I can’t wait to be alone with her” 

“Ben!” she reprehended him. 

“Sorry, I can’t help it” he answered and leaned to kiss her. 

“Ben, watch out!!!” she screamed as she saw a car driving straight on them “Ben!!!” she screamed once again as Ben quickly started rolling the wheel “Oh my God!” she shouted when they were finally driving safely again “Are you crazy?! Do you want to kill us?!” 

“I’m sorry” he was also a little frightened “But you looked so…” 

“No matter how I look” she cut him short “I want you to look at the road. And at the road only, do you understand?” 

“OK, OK” he smiled and concentrated on driving the car. 

When they reached the adobe, he got off the car and opened the door for her. He gave her his hand and help her to get out. 

“So, I guess this is it” he said. 

“I guess” she replied and looked at him with those beautiful blue eyes he loved so much. 

“Come on” he took her hand and they made their way to the door. When Meg opened it, she saw that the whole room was full of white roses and candles. It took her breath away. 

“Ben, I can’t believe it” 

“I know that roses and candles are becoming more and more commonplace but…” 

“Don’t you dare say that” she put her finger on his lips “They are absolutely wonderful. Everything is so perfect” Meg was still admiring the view. 

“Yeah, everything. Including the woman I’m here with” he looked at her beautiful face and knew that you couldn’t be happier than he was right this moment “Look, I just wanted to show you how special you are to me” 

“You are showing me this every single second of our lives” she smiled. 

“And I’ll never stop” he took her face in his hands “I love you, Dorothy from Kansas, more than anyone has ever loved anybody” 

“But not as much as I love you” she giggled and put her head up to give him a kiss. 

“Well, I would argue here” Ben replied started kissing her more passionately. 

“Don’t you even dare!” 

“All right, all right” he smiled and added “Maybe we should close the door” 

“Maybe” she winked his eye and went to close the door. When she came back, Ben greeted her with a passionate kiss on the lips “Maybe I should close the door once again if that’s a reward” she smiled. 

“Don’t you even dare go anywhere” he grabbed her waist and pulled her closer to him. 

“OK, I won’t” she answered but Ben still wasn’t letting go of her “I promise” she added but even that didn’t work. Instead of letting her go, he pulled her closer and started kissing her neck. 

“Mhhhmm” he was delighted “You taste wonderful” 

“Oh really?” 

“Really” 

“But I guess this will forever stay your subjective opinion, because no one else will be able to ever TASTE me, as you call it” 

“Well, I hope so” 

“Don’t worry, I’ll make sure of that” she promised “This part of me is reserved only for you” 

“That’s good” he smiled and kissed her ear “Because you see, I really like this part of you” he said and went next to the cupboard. He opened it and took out a bottle of champagne and two glasses. He handed one of them to Meg and opened the champagne. 

“You have really thought of everything, haven’t you?” Meg was really pleased. 

“Yes, but mainly of you” he answered and poured her a champagne “Let’s drink a toast” now he filled his glass and lifted it up “For us and for our love. May the world let us live happily ever after with each other, making our love grow stronger and sharing many wonderful memories together’ 

“I think I’ll drink for that” Meg smiled and lifted her glass “Cheers” she added and drank her champagne. Ben did the same. 

“Wow! That was tasty” Ben “commended” the champagne “But not as tasty as you are” 

“Oh, I think I’ve heard that before” 

“I know” he answered, put the bottles and glasses down and started covering her face with kisses. She couldn’t help feeling goring thrill with every movement of his lips. She started to “return the favor” by gently caressing his neck with her hands. He slowly pulled away and picked her up “Now, I’ve got you. You will not escape from me” 

“I wasn’t going to” she replied as she let him place her comfortably on the bed. He leaned forward and kissed her lips. 

“God, you look so beautiful” he said as he gently stroked her hair “You know, I really can’t resist you when I see you” 

“Well, you’re not the only one who can’t resist. Cause when we’re together it seems as if we were exploring a completely new world” 

“And believe me, there are many more things to explore” he smiled and started kissing her neck, coming lower and lower to her breasts. Slowly he started unbuttoning her blouse and he took it of caressing and kissing all fragments of her body which were covered by the blouse a few seconds ago. When the blouse landed on the floor, Meg buckled down to take Ben’s shirt of. When she dealt with that, she started caressing his chest with her mouth. He moaned with pleasure as she was going down and down finally reaching the top of his trousers. When she was done with that too, Ben couldn’t stand it anymore and pulled her up for a long passionate kiss. Then he dealt with the rest of her clothes and soon let himself get lost in her forever… 


It was about three o’clock in the morning. Meg couldn’t sleep. She was still living through all the hot and lustful moments of the night. She had never, ever felt so wonderful in her entire life. Maybe it was this magical place, and maybe it was Ben who was showing her how wonderful one can feel every time they made love. And maybe it was her who was experiencing something new, something she had never felt before. But one thing was sure – her dreams were coming true. Both – these noticeable and these hidden deep in her heart. 

She slowly lifted herself and looked at Ben. He was sleeping peacefully. She stroked his hair and kissed his forehead “I love you, Ben Evans” she whispered and noticed that he was smiling. But she didn’t know if it was because of her words or because of what he was dreaming about. As for me, it’s both the same because if he didn’t hear those words in reality, he heard them in his dream. 


I’ve been missing you…

I’ve got the roses, I’ve got the wine 
With a little luck she will be here on time 
This is the place we used to go 
With romantic music and the lights down low 
And as you stand there amazed at the door 
And you’re wondering what all this is for 
It’s just a simple thing from me to you 
The lady that I adore 
Cause there’s something that you should know 
It’s that 

I’ve been missing you, more than words can say 
And that I’ve been thinking about it every day 
And the time we had just dancing nice and slow 
And I said now I’ve found you 
I’m never letting go

There is no reason to the things that you do 
You can break a heart with just a word or two 
And take a lifetime to apologize 
When the one you love’s in front of your eyes 
And I will fall to my knees like a fool 
If it’s the only way of getting through 
You see, if I think you are beautiful 
Someone else is going to feel it too 
So there’s only one thing to do 
Tell you that 

I’ve been missing you, more than words can say 
And that I’ve been thinking about it every day 
Well tonight’s our night for dancing nice and slow 
Because now I’ve found you, I’m never letting go 
No, now I’ve found you, I’m never letting go 

I’ve been missing you… 
I’ve been missing you… 
I’ve been missing you… 
I’ve been missing you, darling…

Chapter 20 

It had been nearly three weeks since Grace was shot but still the hand wasn’t doing very well, according to Grace of course. Tyus said that everything would be fine but she didn’t believe. How could she since she wasn’t able to do anything, for example play volleyball. But there were also the good sides of that – Ben didn’t let her do any harder house works and the only thing she had to do was to clean her room. But still not doing anything was driving her crazy. 

“I hate this” she said to Mark as they were going out of the hospital “When will I be able to live a normal life” 

“Well, knowing Ben like I do – never” Mark laughed. 

“Exactly” she sighed “He wouldn’t let me do anything at home. I mean, not even clean the kitchen or something like that. I always used to do that and I wasn’t complaining’ 

“I know. Look, Ben is just worried about you. That’s all. When you get better, he will let you do everything like you used to” 

“But I AM better. Even the doctors say so, then why is Ben treating me like this?” 

“Grace, he loves you and he doesn’t want anything happen to you” 

“Oh I know, I know. It’s just that it’s driving me crazy” 

“You should be glad that you have such a wonderful brother who cares about you” 

“I am glad. Believe me” 

“You know, we should hurry up. We were supposed to be back at Surf – Central at eleven. Casey and Sara are probably worried about us” 

“Yeah, besides we still have to prepare Surf – Central for the Christmas Party tomorrow. I just hope that this is something Ben will let me do” she laughed and they headed the car. 


*** 


“I want that one” said Benjy pointing a big blue star “It will look great on our Christmas tree, won’t it uncle Ben?” Benjy was really excited about the Christmas shopping. He wished that his mommy was there, but he had a great time with uncle Ben and future aunt Meg. They offered to take him for shopping since Maria promised that she would help mama at her place. 

“Yes, I think this one would be perfect” Ben agreed and turned to Meg “And what do you think?” 

“I think it’s beautiful” 

“Then I think that it’s already ours” said Ben and went to the counter to pay for the star. When he came back, Benjy started screaming: 

“I will carry! I will carry!” so Ben handed him the star and took Meg’s hand. 

“So, what do we have left to buy?” he asked. 

“Let me think, we have the star and Christmas balls but we still don’t have anything to light our Christmas tree. Last year’s bulbs are broken, remember?” 

“Right. Then we should probably start looking for the lighting” 

“I have already found” said Benjy with pride pointing the shop with the bulbs, including the special ones for the Christmas trees. They went inside. 

“How can I help you?” asked the shop assistant. 

“Hi, we’re looking for something to light the Christmas tree” said Ben and started looking around. 

“We have everything you need” said the shop assistant with pride “Just choose what you want” 

“OK” answered Ben and the three of them started walking all over the shop. Benjy was having a great fun because the shop assistant let him light all the biggest bulbs in the shop. So while Meg and Ben were looking for something on the Christmas tree, Benjy was running back and forth lightning every single bulb he could. When Ben and Meg finally found what they were looking for, Benjy was inconsolable but he listened to them when they told him to go. 

“Oh, you have a wonderful son” said the shop assistant not realizing how much pain he was causing Ben. 

“He is not our son” answered Ben shortly “He is our nephew” 

“Oh, I’m so sorry’ the woman said and one more time looked at Benjy. 

“That’s OK” Ben replied and called “Come on Benjy, this time we really have to go” 

“OK” Benjy agreed ‘But we will come back here someday, won’t we?” 

“We will, I promise” said Ben and took Benjy’s hand. When they went out of the shop, Meg asked Benjy: 

“So, I guess you had a little fun there, didn’t you?” 

“Yes I did. The lady was really nice to me” 

“Come on. We should hurry up” said Meg “Your mother is probably already waiting for you” 

“All right, but can I have an ice cream?” he looked imploringly “Pleeaase” 

“OK” Meg agreed and went to one of the shops to buy a portion of Benjy’s favourite. When she came back with them, Benjy jumped out of joy. 

‘Wow!!!” he screamed “Thank you!!!” he took the ice cream from Meg and started eating. 

“Yeah, THANK YOU” Ben smiled and kissed her forehead. 

“For what?” she asked when Benjy ran away a little. 

“For being so amazing.. It’s really incredible that after everything he did to you, you are still able to treat him like this” 

“Ben, he is five years old boy who only wanted to have a real family. Can you blame him for that?” 

“I guess not” Ben answered 

“And neither can I” 

“But still it’s amazing what you do. And who you are” he looked straight into her eyes “I love you” 

“I love you too” she answered and kissed his lips “Very much” she smiled and they sped up a little because it was getting really late and Maria was probably worried. Fortunately, when they reached the house, Maria wasn’t there. She appeared a few minutes ago. 

“Sorry for being late” she said “But we had a few things to do with mama” 

“It’s OK. We came back a few minutes ago” Ben made it understood that she shouldn’t be sorry. 

“Mommy!” Benjy screamed and ran to her. 

“Hi sweetie, how was your day so far?” 

“Wonderful. We bought a blue star for our Christmas tree and the woman in the shop let me light all the bulbs” 

“That’s great” 

“And Meg bought me the biggest ice cream ever” Benjy continued relating. 

“You have to tell me all the details” Maria smiled to Benjy and turned to Ben and Meg “Thank you guys for taking her of him. I really appreciate it” 

“No problem” Meg replied “We had a great time ourselves, didn’t we?” she turned to Ben. 

“Yes, it was a great morning” Ben agreed. 

“Well, I guess I should be going. Benjy is very anxious to put our Christmas tree. And I’m sure you have your tree too, so see you” 

“Bye Maria” Meg smiled “And don’t forget that there is a huge Christmas party tomorrow at Surf – Central” 

“I know. Grace told me. Maybe we’ll meet there. Bye” she answered, took Benjy’s hand and went out of Ben’s house. 

“I can’t wait for the party” Meg sat on the coach “This is going to be a lot of fun” 

“Yeah, I’m sure, but there is one thing I can’t wait for even more than for the party” he smiled. 

“I know, I know” she sighed “Just think about it – there are only four days left. I can’t wait to walk down the isle in my wedding dress” 

“And I can’t wait to see you walking down the isle. You know” he smiled “If this was possible, I would marry you right this second” 

“I would too. I can’t wait to become Mrs. Evans. I have been dreaming about it for such a long time. I can’t believe that this is finally going to happen” 

“Well, in my heart you already ARE Mrs. Evans. You have been all the time since our wedding” he sat on the sofa next to her and continued “Even after Maria’s return, I always thought about you as my wife. But now, you are finally going to be my wife for real. I can’t believe that you still agreed to marry me after everything I’ve put you through, after all the tears you cried because of me” 

“Ben, I told you – love sometimes hurts but at the end it beats everything, it always wins. You taught me that” 

“And you taught me how to live my life, how to make my life really worth something. And now I can’t imagine my life without you” 

“Neither can I. You have always been and you always will be the only man in my life. The only one I’ve ever really loved” 

“I love you too. I’m just sorry that I was so stupid and blind that I didn’t tell you that more often when Maria came back and left you wondering if I felt something for her. But I didn’t. I’ve always loved only you since the day we meet. There was no place in my heart for Maria, not in this sense of the word. But when I finally realized that, you were already gone, too hurt to give me another chance and I …” 

“Ben, Ben, Ben” she shook him “Please, do something for me and shut up, OK?” he smiled and let her talk “Yes, we had a few problems and misunderstandings and we both hurt each other, but that’s in the past. Now, there’s not the time to ponder all this, OK? We made it Ben, we are together and there’s no need to think about the past. We have to focus on the future. On OUR future together. Soon we will be married and we will start a completely new life. That’s what we should think about” 

“You’re right” Ben agreed “I’m sorry. I just can’t stop thinking about how much I’ve hurt you…” 

“Ben!” 

“OK, OK” he smiled “So, what are you going to wear for our wedding night” he changed the subject. 

“You nasty boy!” Meg laughed and gently slapped his shoulder. 

“What?” he was surprised “You told me to focus on our future together. And that IS our future together, isn’t it?” 

“Yes, but maybe we should focus on the wedding first” 

“Why? From what I remember, last time we practiced…” 

“OK Ben, that’s enough” she laughed but he only pulled her closer and started kissing her passionately “Ben!” she protested but he wouldn’t listen to her. So what was she supposed to do? She had to give up and “practice” with him… 

When I first saw you, I saw love 
And the first time you touched me, I felt love 
And after all this time, you’re still the one I love 

Looks like we made it 
Look how far we’ve come my baby 
We mighta took the long way 
We knew we’d get there someday 

They said: “I bet, they’ll never make it” 
But just look at us holding on 
Still together, still going strong 

You’re still the one I run to 
The one that I belong to 
You’re still the one I want for life 
You’re still the one that I love 
The only one I dream of 
You’re still the one I kiss good night 

Ain’t nothing better 
We beat the odds together 
I’m glad we didn’t listen 
Look at what we would be missing 

They said: “I bet, they’ll never make it” 
But just look at us holding on 
Still together, still going strong 

You’re still the one I run to 
The one that I belong to 
You’re still the one I want for life 
You’re still the one that I love 
The only one I dream of 
You’re still the one I kiss good night 

I’m so glad we made it 
Look how far we’ve come my baby

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

BACK