Kansas Story
by Grace
Chapter 41 - 50
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Chapter 41 - Thanksgiving Surprise
November 28, Sunset Beach, California, Ben Evans' house
Maria (seeing Ben packing again): Ben, what the hell are you doing?
Ben: I'm going away on a business trip.
Maria: What?
Ben: You heard.
Maria: But today. It's Thanksgiving.
Ben: Yeah, I know, but I have no choice. I have to leave.
Maria: Ben.
Ben: Maria, it's only for a few days...
Maria: But it's Thanksgiving.
Ben: I know. I'll be back soon. Bye.
He kisses her forehead and leaves. He is angry with himself again. He hates lying to her like that. He can't wait until he clears everything with Maria and has a chance to be with Meg, like it's supposed to be.
***
November 28, Ludlow, Kansas, Cummings' house
Joan: Honey, can you please check up on our turkey?
Meg: Sure mom.
Meg smiles and looks inside the cooker.
Meg: It is not ready yet. What about the salad?
Joan: It's finished.
Meg: Good. Where is dad?
Joan: He went to visit Mysons, he should be back any minute.
The doorbell rings.
Meg: That's probably dad.
Joan: I'll get that.
Meg: Sure, I'll bring the tablecloth from upstairs.
Meg goes upstairs and Joan opens the door.
Joan (screams to Meg): Honey, if this is your daddy, then he has definitely grown younger!
Meg (going down the stairs): What do you. (she sees Ben at the doorstep) Oh my God! What are you doing here?
Ben (smiles): Since it's Thanksgiving and you're the main thing I need to be thankful for, I thought that I'd pay you a little visit.
Meg: You are absolutely amazing!!!
Meg runs to him and gives him a passionate kiss, not caring about the fact that Joan is there.
Ben (grinning): Well, that's certainly kind of welcome I was counting on.
Meg blushes as she sees Joan's sight on her.
Ben: Look Meg, I'm sorry for coming by without saying a word, but I wanted to surprise you.
Meg: Well you did, but this is the best surprise I've had in a long time. Thank you, Ben.
Ben: My pleasure.
Meg: You'll stay for the dinner, won't you? (turns to Joan) He can stay, mom, can't he?
Joan (a little bit confused but just not being able to say "no"): Of course he can.
Ben: I'd be honored to spend the Thanksgiving with you and your husband, Mrs. Cummings. And with your wonderful daughter.
Meg (blushes): Ben.
He looks at the way her eyes become bigger when she blushes. He loves to see her like this.
Joan: We'd be honored too. Well, you're the man our daughter loves after all, it will be nice to share this time with you.
Ben: Thank you. I'd really appreciate it.
Joan: Well, Meg says you are wonderful.
Meg: He is, mom. You'll see.
Chapter 42 - Thanksgiving Day
November 28, Ludlow, Kansas, Cummings' house
Hank (coming inside the house): Hi Joanie, I'm home.
Joan (grinning): Hi.
Hank (suspiciously): What are you smiling about?
Joan: You're not gonna believe who is upstairs with our daughter.
Hank: That's right - I'm not. So why don't you tell me?
Joan: Ben came by to spend Thanksgiving with Meg.
Hank: Did you just say BEN?
Joan: Yes I did. He is here. Meg invited him to spend the Thanksgiving Day with us.
Hank: Really?
Joan: Yes. And I think that's a very good idea. We'll have a chance to get to know him better.
Hank: If you say so. I'll go and change.
Joan: Sure.
Hank goes to their room and Joan finishes preparing the Thanksgiving dinner. When fifteen minutes pass, Hank goes out of the room in a new suit.
Joan: Wow, you look handsome.
Hank: You look beautiful yourself.
Joan: Thank you. Meg!!! Ben!!! The dinner is ready!!!
Meg (from her room): We're coming.
Soon Ben and Meg appear on the stairs. Meg is wearing beautiful, long, blue dress and Ben is wearing his suit.
Hank: Look at you, sweetheart, you look absolutely wonderful.
Meg: Thank you, daddy.
She smiles and leads Ben to the table showing him his seat.
Ben (sitting): Thanks.
Meg sits next to him.
Ben (turning to Hank): It's nice to see you, Mr. Cummings.
Hank: It's nice to see you too. I must admit that I actually doubted that you would ever show up here again.
Meg: Dad.
Ben: It's OK. Mr. Cummings, I know that you're worried about your daughter, but I love her very much.
Hank: Look, I have nothing against you, I just don't want to see my little girl getting hurt.
Meg: Dad, I'm not your little girl anymore.
Hank: I just don't want to see her hurt.
Ben: And you won't. I love her and I won't hurt her.
Hank: I just hope that what you're saying is true.
Ben: It is. I love your daughter.
Hank: You know, I've seen many girls with broken hearts and I just don't want that to happen to her.
Meg: It won't daddy. Ben loves me as much as I love him. I know that.
Hank: If you say so.
Meg: Daddy.
Hank: OK, OK, I'm sorry, I guess I just can't stop worrying about you.
Meg: I know, but there's no need to worry.
Joan: OK, can we stop this right now. It's Thanksgiving.
Hank: You're right, you're right. I'm sorry. Let's enjoy the Thanksgiving dinner. But before we do, I'd like to make a toast.
Hank stands up and gets the champagne. He pours it to the glasses standing on the table.
Hank (taking his glass): I'd like to say that I am really happy that we can gather here all together to enjoy the Thanksgiving dinner. I really wish that Sara could be there with us, but since she can't, I hope that she is having a great time right now. I hope that life will bring us all a lot of joy and happiness.
Meg (looking meaningfully at Ben): It will.
Ben (taking his glass): I'd like to say something too.
Joan: Go ahead.
Ben: I just wanted to say that this year was the best year of my life because I met a wonderful woman I fell in love with, and I hope that God will let me love her for the rest of my life. I'm really thankful that I was so blessed to meet your daughter and I promise that I will do anything to make her happy. (turns to Meg) I love you, Meg, and I hope that your parents will finally believe me on that one.
Hank: We'll see about that.
Ben: I know that it will take some time until you start trusting me, but I'm really honored and happy that I can be here with you and share this wondrful day with you.
Meg (with tears in her eyes): We're honored as well.
Joan: That's right, we're really happy that you're here with us.
Meg: But not as happy as I am.
Meg looks lovingly at Ben and winks her eye. He kisses the top of her head and they both enjoy the best Thanksgiving they ever had.
Chapter 43 - The Farewell
November 29, Ludlow, Kansas, Local motel
Ben starts packing his things. He wishes that he didn't have to leave so soon, but he doesn't want Maria to get suspicious. When he is nearly done he hears the knock on the door.
Meg (from outside): Ben, it's me.
Ben (opening the door): Meg, what are you doing here?
Meg: I know that we said goodbye to each other yesterday, but I just. I needed to see you.
She walks closer to him and gives him a passionate kiss.
Meg: And I needed to do that. I'm sorry.
Ben (smiling): Don't be.
Meg: Ben, it's just that I hate the thought of you leaving me. And when I think that we're gonna be apart for I don't know how long, all I wanna do isrun to you and.
Ben (taking her in his arms): Hey, I know. I know.
He breaths the smell of her hair and hates the thought that he will have to leave her in a few minutes. He starts stroking her hair and looks into her eyes, seeing all the pain in them. He holds her closer and closer, if only that was possible.
Ben: I hate to leave you.
Meg: I hate to let you go, but I know that you have to.
Ben (stunned by her beauty): Yeah, I have to.
Meg (looking at her watch): You'd better go or you'll miss your plane.
Ben: You're right, I should go.
Ben lifts his suitcase and one more time he looks at Meg. Suddenly he feels that he just can't leave like that. He can't.
He takes her in his arms and starts kissing her passionately. She returns his kisses, but when she realizes that he has no intention of stopping, she pulls away a little.
Meg (fighting with her feelings): Ben. Your plane.
Ben (still kissing her): What plane?
Meg: Ben, you'll miss the flight.
Ben: There are other flights.
Meg: I know, but.
Ben (placing his finger on her lips): Ssshhh.
He lifts her up and places her gently on the bed. He knows that she wants this as much as he wants her, but she is just too innocent and scared to admit it.
He kisses her lips with hunger and passion, knowing that soon he will have to stay without those kisses for a long time. He wants to remember each second of this wonderful time spent with her.
He starts to unbutton her dress and then he takes off her clothes. She feels a gentle chill all over her exposed body, but soon he makes it warmer by his kisses and caress. He lets her help him to undress and lies on the top of her. He feels her shivering body by his side and he feels that he has never wanted a woman more than he wants this sweet, innocent girl from Kansas.
When she feels his caress, she is scared that she will never be able to give as much pleasure as he gives her. But even the simplest touch of her skin just makes him want her more.
Their lovemaking is simple and gentle, but at the same time it's full of lust and passion.
When they finally lie on the bed, exhausted, they can't stop thinking how wonderful it is every time their bodies become one. Ben smiles when he feels Meg's hand reaching for every part of his body. He runs his hand through her hair and kisses her. Meg places her head on his chest and lets him gently stroke her hair.
Meg: Ben?
Ben: Yeah?
Meg: What are you thinking about?
Ben: I'm thinking that I could stay like this forever. Just feeling you by my side. That's all I need.
Meg: I could stay like this too. Just nestled into your arms.
He smiles and pulls her closer, wrapping his strong arms around her naked shoulders and stroking them gently. Meg shivers. She lifts her head up and kisses him. Suddenly Ben smiles.
Meg: Ben, what is it?
Ben: Nothing, I just thought that if that's the kind of goodbye I'm gonna get every time I leave you, then there is at least one good thing about leaving.
Meg: Maybe. But I promise you that you can get something even better when you come back.
Ben: I can hardly wait.
Meg: I really hate every time you have to go.
Ben: I know, I know, but I will be back as soon as possible. I promise.
Meg: The only thing I want you to promise me is that you love me.
Ben: I think I can promise that. (he smiles and kisses her) I love you. I love you with my whole heart, Meg.
Meg: I love you too, Ben. Very much.
She kisses him one more time and once again places her head on his chest, letting him stroke her hair.
Chapter 44 - The Most Beautiful Flowers In The World
November 30, Sunset Beach, California, Ben Evans' house
Ben sits on the coach and keeps staring at the wall, thinking about all the times he held Meg in his arms. Maria enters the room.
Maria: Ben, can we talk?
Ben: Sure, what about?
Maria: You.
Ben: Me? Why?
Maria: Come on, Ben, stop pretending. I know that there is something going on with you. Why don't you just tell me what it is?
Ben: I have no idea what you're talking about. There is nothing going on with me.
Meg: Damn it, Ben. I know there is something wrong with you.
Ben: Maria.
Maria: Ben, we used to talk to each other about everything and now we don't talk about anything. Ben, we don't go out together. We don't do anything together. We don't make love. Ben, what's going on?
Ben: How many times do I have to tell you that nothing is going on.
Maria: Damn it, Ben, I am your wife! (sad but true - Grace) I have a right to know!!!
Ben (angry): There is nothing to know about!
Maria: Ben, talk to me, please.
Ben: I told you - there is nothing to talk about.
Ben gets up and storms out of the house. Maria looks at him wondering what happened to the man she fell in love with. Ben runs to the beach, hating himself for what he's doing, hating the fact that things are the way they are, but most of all hating the fact that the woman he really loves is so far away.
***
December 2, Ludlow, Kansas, Cummings' house
Meg (raves): I can't wait till Christmas.
Joan: I know, me either. And I've got wonderful news for you.
Meg: What news?
Joan: Sara is coming home for Christmas!
Meg: What? You're kidding, right?
Joan: No, I'm not. She called yesterday when you were out. She told me that they would give her a week or something of free time, so she can come by.
Meg: That's wonderful! I miss Sara so much!
Joan: We all do.
Meg: It will be great to see her again.
Meg smiles and the doorbell rings.
Joan: I'll get that.
Joan goes and opens the door. She is stunned when she sees nothing but a bouquet of white roses. Soon the man appears from behind the flowers.
The man: Good morning, I have something for Meg Cummings.
Meg (smiling as she knows what's going on): That's me.
She walks to the door and takes SOMETHING from the man.
The man: Please, sign here.
Meg: Sure.
She does what the man asked her to, gives him a tip and he leaves.
Joan (smiling): Is this what I think it is?
Meg (looking inside the letter attached): I guess so.
Joan: Wow, the man really knows what a woman needs.
Meg: He sure does.
Joan: It looks like he really loves you.
Meg: I never had any doubts about that.
Meg smiles and runs to her room. She opens the letter and reads it.
Meg, sweetheart, I wish I could write the letter myself, but it would take too long for you to get it, so I'm doing it this way. I just want you to know that I keep thinking about you all the time and I hate to think that you're so far away. Every time I go to sleep I imagine that you're there with me, in my arms. I know I could have written this over the Internet, but I wanted you to get this with the flowers. And I just want you to know that every single rose says how much I love you. And how much I miss you. But remember - you are always with me in my heart and in my dreams. I love you and I always will. Yours forever, Ben.
Meg (with tears in her eyes): Oh Ben, if you only knew how much I miss you too. I hate to be far away from you, but I will be waiting.
Chapter 45 - The Intruder
December 5, Ludlow, Kansas, Cummings' house
It's five to seven o'clock. Meg was to meet Ashley, Jessica and Connie at seven in Buckaroo, but she doesn't feel like going anywhere. She takes another look at the flowers and closes her eyes trying to imagine Ben's face. Suddenly she hears the knock on the door.
Meg (coming to reality): Who's that?
Tim (from outside): It's me, Tim.
Meg (not exactly happy): What are you doing here?
Tim: I came here to talk to you.
Meg: What about?
Tim: Can you please first let me in?
Meg (opening the door): Sure.
Tim comes in and Meg shuts the door.
Meg: So, why are you here? What did you want to talk to me about?
Tim: This whole guy Ben.
Meg: Tim, please.
Tim: Don't you please me, Meg. I'm worried about you.
Meg: Worried?
Tim: Yes - WORRIED.
Meg: And why is that?
Tim: He's gonna hurt you, Meg. I know this sort of men - first they are gentle, sweet, tell all those words a girl wants to hear, make girl crazy about them, use all their charm to get a girl and then when they get what they want, they just disappear.
Meg: Ben is not like that! Not at all!
Tim: How do you know?
Meg: I know Ben.
Tim: You only think you know him, but let me tell you something - as soon as he gets you into bed. (Tim notices the strange expression on Meg's face) Oh my God, he has already gotten you into bed.
Meg (confused): Tim.
Tim: You have already slept with him, haven't you?
Meg: That is none of your business!!!
Tim (not listening to what Meg is saying): Haven't you?
Meg (finally admitting): And what if I have?
Tim: You know, you really disappointed me.
Meg: Disappointed you?
Tim: Yeah. You see - here I am thinking that you are this sweet, innocent, caring girl I've looked for my whole life and here you are dumping me for the first better looking guy and jumping to bed with him.
Meg: I DID NOT just jump to bed with Ben, besides he is not just first better looking guy! (Oh no, he is the best looking guy in the world!!! - G.)
Tim: Then who he is? And what did he do to get you into bed with him? Or maybe he didn't have any problems with that at all.
Meg: How dare you?!!!
Tim: What does he have that I don't? (Do you really want to know Tim? - G.) Is he better in bed or. (or. - G.)
Meg (screams): Just stop it, Tim, please!!!
Tim: Stop what?
Meg: Tim, I told you - this has nothing to with who is better and who is worse. It's about love. The connection.
Tim (laughs): The connection?
Meg: Yes. The special kind of bond Ben and I have. The way we read each other's mind. And I didn't have that all with you.
Tim: You know, you sound like you and Ben were some kind of lost souls.
Meg: That's because we are! And we have finally found each other.
Tim: God, I never though that you actually believed all that rubbish.
Meg: It's not rubbish, it's true.
Tim: Yeah right.
Meg: But I don't expect you to understand that. (And I don't expect Tim to understand anything - G.)
Tim: We could have been happy together. (Yeah, right, like any girl would be happy with you... Well, maybe Connie... -G.)
Meg: No, we couldn't have. I don't love you.
Tim: Great. We have been together for so many years, and when we are about to get married, you tell me you don't love me.
Meg: I'm sorry, Tim. And can you please just leave? We have nothing more to talk about.
Tim: I wish I could make you see the real Ben Evans.
Meg: I SEE the real Ben Evans. And that's the Ben Evans I love.
Tim: You'll be sorry. You'll see - one day you'll be sorry that you have meet him.
Meg: Please just go.
Tim: Fine. (he sees flowers) Is that from him?
Meg: Yes.
Tim (laughing): Flowers? Another sick trick to buy you.
Meg: Just get out, Tim!
Tim: You'll regret this, Meg.
Meg: I said get out!
Tim: All right, all right, I'm going.
Tim looks at Meg with deprecation and leaves.
Chapter 46 - Pre-Christmas Gifts
December 17, Ludlow, Kansas, Cummings' house
Meg: When are dad and Sara arriving?
Joan: They should be home anytime. You could have gone with dad to pick Sara up from the airport.
Meg: I know, but you needed help.
Joan: I would have handled it.
Meg: No, you wouldn't have.
Joan: All right, all right, I'm glad that you stayed with me and.
The doorbell rings. Meg opens the door, it's Hank and Sara.
Meg: Oh my God, Sara, you look absolutely amazing!!!
Sara: You look beautiful as well.
Meg: Sara, I've missed you so much.
Sara: I know, I missed you too.
They share a big, long sisters' hug.
Joan (trying to reach Sara): Hey, what about me?
Sara (giving Joan a hug): Oh, mom, it's so good to be home.
Joan: We're so happy that you are gonna spend Christmas with us.
Sara: Are you kidding? I wouldn't miss it for the world.
Sara smiles and Hank finally manages to get inside.
Hank (taking Sara's suitcase): I'll take it to your room.
Sara: Thanks, dad.
Hank walks upstairs and Joan, Sara and Meg go to Joan and Hank's room and sit on the coach.
Meg: So tell, us Sara, how it's like to live in a big world?
Sara (laughing): You mean Washington?
Meg: Yeah.
Sara: Well, as I told you in all my letters, Washington is a little bit different from Ludlow.
Meg (laughing and looking at Sara meaningfully): A LITTLE BIT?
Sara: All right, so it's A LOT different form Ludlow, but I'm really happy to be home. Washington is really great, but I've missed Ludlow. And I've missed you.
Joan: We've missed you too, sweetheart.
Joan and Sara share another hug and they hear the doorbell.
Sara: I'll get that.
Sara opens the door and sees extremely handsome, tall, dark-haired man. (Hhmm, let's think who that might be... - G.)
Sara (surprised): Hi, how can I help you?
Ben: Hi, I'm looking for Meg. Is she home?
Sara (still a little surprised): Yes she is. Hold on a moment. (screams towards Joan and Hank's room) Meg, there is some guy here and he wants to talk to you!
Meg (leaving the room): What does he. (she sees Ben) Oh my God! You're here!
Meg runs to him and he takes her in his arms. They share a passionate kiss.
Meg: I can't believe you're really here!
Ben: I had to see you.
They share another kiss and Sara smiles.
Sara: >From the way my sister greeted you I'm guessing that you are this mysterious Ben Evans. She told me a lot about you.
Ben: Only good things I hope.
Sara (smiling): The best.
Ben: Wait a minute. your sister? Then I guess you must be Sara.
Sara: I am. Sara Cummings.
Ben: Ben Evans.
He smiles and they shake hands.
Ben: It's nice to meet you.
Sara: It's nice to meet you too.
Ben (laughs): I just hope that you won't get angry about this year's Christmas presents for Meg.
Sara: Oh no! She told you about the bike.
Ben nods.
Sara (to Meg): How could you?
Meg: I'm sorry, Sara, I was just.
Sara (laughing): OK, OK, just let it go... (turns to Ben) So, what are you doing in Kansas anyway?
Ben: I came to see your sister. I missed her so much.
Sara: Oh, I wish that I had someone who would fly across United States for me. Do you have a brother?
Ben becomes sad.
Sara (confused): I'm sorry, did I say something wrong?
Ben: No, no. It's just that my brother is dead.
Sara: God, I'm so sorry. My big mouth.
Ben: Hey, it's OK.
Sara: I'm sorry.
Ben: Hey, you didn't know.
Ben looks at Sara forgivingly, but Meg sees how much pain is in Ben's eyes. He has never told her that he had a brother. But Meg knew that if he wanted to, he would have told her, then apparently he wasn't ready yet.
Chapter 47 - The Best Time Of The Year
December 19, Ludlow, Kansas, Cummings' house
Joan: Meg, I am SOO glad that you and Ben agreed to go to Kansas City and do the Christmas Shopping.
Meg: It's nothing, mom.
Ben: Right, besides I would go absolutely anywhere as long as I have Meg by my side.
Meg: Ben, you are so sweet.
Ben: I'm trying.
Meg: Successfully.
Ben: Good.
Ben and Meg share a kiss and after a while they come back to reality.
Meg: So, what are we supposed to buy?
Joan (handing her a piece of paper): Here is the list.
Meg: All right, we'll be back as soon as we can. Bye.
Joan smiles and Ben and Meg leave.
Meg: Oh, this is going to be a wonderful day.
Ben: I don't doubt that.
He looks at her and smiles. They share a quick kiss and got into the car.
***
December 19, Kansas City, Kansas
Meg (laughing): I should have warned you that winters in Kansas can be pretty bad. It's freezing.
Ben: Don't worry, I'm used to it. Those in England can be pretty annoying too.
Meg: Right, I forgot that you've already seen snow in your life.
Ben (laughing): Oh believe me, I have. When I first came to California I couldn't understand how it was possible to have Christmas without snow. (laughs) I couldn't imagine that.
Meg: I can't imagine that either. Show is one of the best things about Christmas.
Ben: Well, that's what I thought too when I came to California, but after a few years I got used to wearing shorts and T-shirts for Christmas.
Meg (laughing): God, this must look really funny.
Ben: It does. Well it did when I first came to California, but now it's kind of routine.
Meg: Still it sounds unbelievably for me. And if you don't have snow, then how does Santa Claus came to you, huh?
Ben (laughing): Actually, I've never really thought about it.
Meg: You see - you can't even have the real Santa Claus there since he drives his sledge and you don't have snow.
Ben (laughing again): You know, you got me pretty scared this time. But he has his reindeers.
They both laugh.
Meg (a little bit more seriously): Ben, can I ask you a question?
Ben: Sure, go ahead.
Meg: What. What do you see in me? I mean, I'm just an ordinary girl from Ludlow, Kansas.
Ben: Hey, you are not just an ordinary girl from Kansas. You're smart, funny, witty. sympathetic - that's what I knew even before I meet you. And now I can only add that you are also beautiful. Besides we're soul mates and I wouldn't care even if you lived on Iceland.
Meg: That's so beautiful what you said.
Ben: That's what I feel. And nothing is going to change it. I love you. I've loved you since the first minute I met you over the Internet.
Meg: I love you too. And you're right - we are soul mates. And that doesn't happen often, now does it?
Ben: No. That's why what we have is so special and unbelievable. What we have found with each other is really rare and beautiful and we should cherish it for as long as we can.
Meg: I will.
Ben: Me too.
Ben stops walking for a while and kisses Meg.
Ben: OK, so what do we have left to buy?
Meg: Not much I think (looks at the list) Actually we have already bought everything.
Ben: Does that mean that we have a few minutes to ourselves?
Meg: Even more than a few minutes.
Ben: Great, then in that case I invite you for coffee. (smiles) If only I knew where to buy it.
Meg: Actually there is a quite cosy café just round the corner.
Ben: Great.
They speed up a little and reach the café. They go inside, take the seats and take off their clothes. The waitress comes to them.
The waitress: Good afternoon. How can I help you?
Ben: We would like two hot coffees.
The waitress: Sure.
She walks away and after a few minutes she comes back with two cups of coffee. Ben pays right away.
The waitress: Enjoy your coffee.
Ben and Meg: Thanks.
The waitress walks away and Ben and Meg immediately start enjoying their coffee.
Meg (raving): Gosh, this really is HOT.
Ben: Maybe. But not as hot as you make me feel everytime I see you.
Meg (blushing): Ben.
Ben: Sorry, I couldn't help it. But then again - what the hell.
He smiles and kisses her passionately. This time Meg blushes even more.
Meg (in rebuking voice): Ben, we're in public. People are staring at us.
Ben: So what? Let them see how real love looks like.
***
December 19, Ludlow, Kansas, Cummings' house
Meg: I hate the thought of you leaving me tomorrow.
Ben: Yeah, I hate that thought too, but I have to go back. I have many appointments and Christmas parties to attend.
Meg: I have just the family dinner.
Ben (laughing): Lucky you.
Meg: I wish I could be with you all the time.
Ben: I know. That's why I have something for you. Something that will remind you of me all the time.
Meg: I keep thinking about you even without any reminders.
Ben: I know, but still I'd like you to have it.
Meg smiles curious and Ben pulls a small box from his jacket. He hands it to Meg.
Ben: Here, open it.
Meg opens and finds a pearl necklace there. It takes her breath away.
Meg: Oh my God, Ben. It's. It's absolutely beautiful. I can't believe it.
Ben takes the necklace out of the box and intents to out it on Meg.
Ben: May I?
Meg smiles and it says for itself. Ben puts the necklace on Meg's neck.
Ben: Wow, it looks beautiful. No, YOU look beautiful in it.
Meg: Thank you.
Ben: I want this necklace to be the symbol of our love. Every time you will look at it, I want you to know how much I love you.
Meg: I already know that.
Ben: Good
He smiles and they share a passionate kiss
Chapter 48 - Merry Christmas!
December 23, Ludlow, Kansas, Cummings' house
Sara: Meg, can you please hand me the star?
Meg: Why do you always have to put the star?
Sara (smiling): That's a privilege of being the youngest.
Meg: It's just one year. not even the whole year.
Sara: But still I'm the youngest one.
Sara smiles, takes the star from Meg and puts it on the top of Christmas tree.
Meg: Wow, it looks great. I wish Ben could see it.
Sara: Yeah, it's a pity he had to go back to California.
Meg: Yeah, I really wish I could spend Christmas with him.
Sara: Don't worry. If you love each other as much as you say you do, then I'm sure there will be many wonderful Christmas for the two of you.
Meg: I hope so. But still Ben's visit was the best Christmas gift I've ever got.
Sara: Not counting the bike of course.
Meg: Of course.
They both start laughing when they remember those Christmas.
Sara: And speaking of Christmas presents, Ashley and Ryan went away and are gone for a few days, so they left the presents for us yesterday. I gave them ours for them. I'm sorry, I forgot to tell you earlier.
Meg: It's OK.
Sara: God, I can't believe that it's Christmas again.
Meg (sighs): Neither can I, neither can I.
Sara: You said Ben had given you a pearl necklace. Where is it? Come on, show it to me.
Meg: OK, OK.
Meg takes the box from the shelf and hands it to Sara. Sara opens it.
Sara (shocked): Oh my God, it's absolutely amazing.
Meg: I know, BEN is amazing.
Sara (smiling): You know, I'm starting to believe it.
***
December 25, Ludlow, Kansas, Cummings' house
Meg: God, I can't wait for the turkey!
Sara: You have just eaten one for Thanksgiving.
Meg: Yes, I know, but those for Christmas taste differently.
Sara: Yeah, right.
They start laughing.
Joan (from the kitchen): Girls, the turkey is nearly ready!
Meg: Great!
Sara: Don't you keep thinking about food a little bit too much?
Meg: Sara, it's Christmas. I can keep thinking about anything I like.
Sara: All right, all right.
They laugh once again and the phone rings. Meg answers.
Meg: Hello.
Ben (with the sweetest voice of his): Merry Christmas.
Meg: Hi.
Sara recognizes the expression on Meg's face and immediately knows who's calling.
Ben: So, how is your Christmas mood?
Meg: It's pretty wonderful.. But it would be better if you were here with me.
Ben: I know. I wish I could spend Christmas with you. I'm sure it would be even better than the Thanksgiving.
Meg (has a flashback of her and Ben making love during the Thanksgiving farewell and blushes a little): I don't doubt that.
Ben: You know, I really wish I could find you under my Christmas tree wearing nothing but the ribbon.
Meg (this time blushing for good): Remember that you don't have the real Santa Claus in California.
Ben (sighs): Right. So I guess my dream will stay just a dream right now.
Meg: I'm afraid so. But who knows, maybe someday.
Ben: Maybe. I will be thinking about you every second this Christmas.
Meg: And I will be thinking about you.
Ben: Good thoughts I hope.
Meg: Very good.
Ben: I'm sure you will have a wonderful Christmas with your family.
Meg: I will.
Ben: Something's telling me that you can't wait for the turkey.
Meg: How did you know?
Ben: Don't forget that I can read your mind even thousands miles away.
Meg: Right. But I warn you - sometimes this may be dangerous.
Ben: Why? Do you happen to have naughty thoughts?
Meg: Maybe.
Ben: I think I'll take the risk.
Meg (smiling): Your choice.
Ben: Look, I need to go and I don't want to keep you from your Christmas dinner, so just have the most wonderful Christmas ever.
Meg: Thank you. It will be wonderful because my heart will be full of you. And Merry Christmas to you too.
Ben: Thank you. Oh, and give my best to your family.
Meg: Thank, I will.
Ben: Oh and tell Sara that if she wants I can buy her a new bike.
Meg (bursting into laughter): Sure, I'll tell her.
Ben: OK. So I guess this is goodbye, huh?
Meg: I guess.
Ben: Then Merry Christmas once again and remember that I love you.
Meg: I love you too.
Meg hangs up and Sara looks at her smiling.
Sara: God, you really are in love with him.
Meg: I am. He is wonderful. Oh, and he offered to buy you a new bike if you want to.
Sara starts laughing.
Sara: I'll get you for telling him about it.
Meg: God, I'm scared.
Meg smiles and they share another sisters' hug.
Chapter 49 - Christmas Without Snow
December 26, Sunset Beach, California, Richards' house
Maria: Gregory and Olivia had a great idea to organize this party.
Ben: I guess so.
Maria: It's so amazing in here, don't you think?
Ben: Yeah, it's really beautiful.
Ben looks around. The party is wonderful indeed. There is a lot of great colorful lighting and small plastic Christmas trees everywhere. There are of course tons of drinks and things to eat, all that one could wish for. There is just one thing missing there for Ben - Meg. He wishes that he could share it all with her. He wishes that he could bring Meg to Sunset Beach, introduce her to his friends and tell them all how much he loves her.
He looks around and after a second he sees Gregory and Olivia coming closer to him and Maria.
Gregory: Hi, Ben. It's great you could come.
Ben: Yeah. This is a great party. Congratulations to you both.
Olivia: Thank you.
Ben: Oh, and you look absolutely beautiful, Olivia.
Olivia (blushes): Thank you.
Olivia and Gregory walk away, but soon are "replaced" by Annie.
Annie (jumping towards them): Ben, Maria, finally. I have been looking all over for you.
Ben (not very enthusiastically): Hi Annie, it's nice to see you.
Annie: It's a great party, isn't it?
Maria: Absolutely.
Ben: Yeah.
Annie: Why don't we drink a toast?
Annie runs towards one of the waiters and brings three glasses of champagne.
Annie: So, let's drink for my favourite couple in the entire world.
Annie looks meaningfully at Ben and Maria. Maria smiles weakly and Ben only sighs.
Maria: I'll drink for that.
They drink the toast.
Annie: So, how are things going between the two of you?
Ben (looking at her angry): Annie, this is a party, it's not the best time to talk about such things.
Annie: Each moment is good when it's going about my friends' happiness.
Ben: Annie.
Annie: But.
Ben: Annie, don't even go there.
Maria: Ben is right - that's not the time or place.
Annie: All right, but you're not gonna avoid talking about it.
Ben (looking at Annie meaningfully): Annie.
Annie: All right, all right, I'm shutting up.
Ben (smiling): Good.
Annie: OK, I'm out of here. Take care.
Maria: Bye Annie.
Annie and Maria share a hug and Annie walks away.
Maria: Ben, Annie is right.
Ben: What about?
Maria: Sooner or later we will have to talk about it.
Ben: About what?
Maria: I think you know exactly.
Maria looks meaningfully at Ben and walks away. He looks at her and again gets angry that he can't be honest with her.
***
December 27, Ludlow, Kansas, Connie's house
Connie: I still can't believe that Meg actually dumped you.
Tim: Don't remind me.
Connie: So, what are you gonna do about it?
Tim: I don't know, but I will get her back.
Connie: How? She is so totally in love with Ben.
Tim: That doesn't matter. I will get her back. I won't let her treat me like this. I won't.
Chapter 50 - New Year's Surprise
December 29, Ludlow, Kansas, Cummings' house
Meg: I wish that you could stay a little bit longer, Sara.
Sara: Yeah, I know, but Washington is calling.
Meg: This was such a wonderful Christmas.
Sara: Yeah, it was great. I mean, it was amazing to meet with you all after being away for so long.
Meg: And when you leave I won't have anyone to talk to. I mean, Ashley and Ryan won't be back until third of January, Jess is leaving tomorrow. And I will be spending New Year's Eve with parents.
Jessica: Don't worry, you'll survive that.
Meg: Oh, I know. But I just wish that on New Year's Eve I could nestle into Ben's arms, drink a champagne and get lost in him forever. God, I miss him so much.
Jessica: Well, if everything you said about Ben being your soul mate and all that stuff then I guess there is no wonder.
Meg: He IS my soul mate. I love him. God, this sounds crazy, because I have known him only for three months.
Sara: But you said that that you had known him longer from the Internet.
Meg: I know, I know, but still everything is happening so fast (she stops for a while and smiles) But I wouldn't like to stop it for anything.
Sara: I've always wondered what it's like to be so totally in love.
Meg: It's wonderful Sara. When I'm with Ben it's like the whole world around stopped and we were the only two people in the world. He makes me see everything in a completely different way. In a way I've never thought possible. And he makes me feel in a way I've never thought possible. Everytime he touches me, I feel this special thrill all over my body. It is so amazing.
Jessica (smiling): God, you could talk about Ben the whole day, couldn't you?
Meg: Yes, yes, I could. And I would never get bored.
Sara: Gosh, I don't remember you being like this. Ever.
Meg: That's because I have never felt this way in my entire life. God, I'm going crazy here without him. I really wish I could spend New Year's Eve with him.
Sara: And who says you can't?
Meg: What? Of course I can't. Ben is in California and I am here.
Sara: There are flights to California.
Meg (frightened as she realizes what Sara is talking about): Sara, are you saying.
Sara: Yes. Why don't you surprise him in California? I'm sure he will be more than happy to see you.
Meg: I don't know.
Jessica: I think it's a great idea. Just take the flight to California and.
Meg: You're right, you're right. I'm gonna surprise Ben and we're gonna spend a wonderful New Year's Eve together.
Sara (smiling): Now, that's my sister.
Meg (hugging Sara): Sara, you are amazing. I love you, I love you!!!
Sara (trying to free herself from Meg): I love you too, but can you please just let go of me now?
Meg (letting go of Sara): Sure. I'm sorry.
Sara: You're forgiven. And now call the airport and book the ticket. And don't tell Ben that you're coming. Remember, this is supposed to be a surprise,
Meg (raving): Oh, this is going to be a great surprise. (You don't even know how great... - G.)
***
December 31, plane to Sunset Beach
The voice: Ladies and gentleman, fasten your seatbelts, we're gonna be landing in Sunset Beach any minute.
Meg (thinks): Finally. I'm gonna see Ben in just a few minutes.
Meg smiles and the plane lands. She takes her luggage and pulls out Ben's visiting card.
Meg (to herself): Ocean Avenue 1303. Sounds wonderful, but where is it?
Meg walks towards the ticket office.
Meg: Excuse me, I'd like to know where Ocean Avenue is. Do you think you can help me?
The woman: Ocean Avenue. Ocean Avenue. I think it's just next to the beach, near the pier.
Meg (smiling): The beach. Thanks.
Meg looks around and realizes that she doesn't even know where the beach is. She counts the cash in her wallet and calls the cab. She drives to Ocean Avenue, pays and gets off. She looks around stunned by the beauty of the ocean and the beach. She looks at the shining sun and smiles.
Meg (to herself): So, this is how you live Ben. Let's get you surprised.
She smiles, one more time looks at the visiting card to check the number and finds Ben's house. She takes s deep breath and for a moment remains staring at the door.
Meg (thinks): The time has come.
She rings the doorbell and waits a few seconds until the door is open. The young, long-haired woman is standing there. (Any guesses??? - G.) Meg is a little bit surprised.
Meg: Hi, my name is Meg Cummings. I'm looking for Ben Evans.
The woman: He is not home right now, but he should be back any minute. You can wait for him if you want.
Meg: Thank you.
Meg comes inside.
The woman: Oh, and by the way - I'm Maria Evans.
Meg (surprised): Maria Evans? Are you Ben's sister?
Maria (smiles): Sister? Why?
Meg: Well, you have the same second name.
Maria: That's because I'm his wife.
Meg (feeling as if she has just been stabbed): Wife?
Maria: Yes (looks at Meg and realizes that something is wrong) Are you OK?
Meg (nearly crying): I'm fine. I'm fine. I think I need to go.
Maria: But Ben.
Meg: Don't tell him that I was here, OK?
Meg heads towards the door and bumps straight into Ben. He is shocked to see her, but not as shocked as she was to hear that he had a wife.
Ben: Meg.
Meg (slapping him across the face): You bastard!!!
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