Kansas Story
by Grace
Chapter 71 - 80
********************
Chapter 71 – Leaving Kansas
February 7, Ludlow, Kansas, Cummings’ house
It’s ten o’clock in the morning. The plane takes off at two and Meg is now trying to finish packing. Ben is of course very helpful.
Meg (trying to hide a pink sweater from Ben): OK, pretend that you haven’t seen this.
Ben: What? This sweet, pink sweater?
Meg: Ben, please…
Ben (smiling): OK, OK.
Meg: Ben, I swear that I don’t wear it anymore...
Ben: I don’t really care what you wear, you look beautiful in everything. Besides, as far as I’m concerned, you could as well wear nothing.
Meg (blushing): All right, that’s enough…
Ben (grinning): On one condition.
Meg: Which is?
Ben grins even more and steals Meg a kiss.
Meg: Ben, if you keep doing this, I will never finish packing.
Ben: I’m sorry, I just can’t help it.
Meg: Ben, we have the rest of our lives.
Ben: Right… Oh, and speaking of starting our life together, I have something that belongs to you.
Meg: And what would that be?
Ben smiles and takes out the pearl necklace he gave her for Christmas.
Ben: This.
Meg (looking at the necklace with affection): You had it fixed…
Ben: Yeah… I thought that since we are back together, maybe you would like to wear it again (He looks at her questioningly) Would you?
Meg: With pleasure.
Meg smiles through tears and Ben helps her to put on the necklace.
Meg: Thanks.
Ben: Thanks for wanting to wear it again.
Meg: How could I not want? (sighs) All right, now sit quietly and give me a few minutes to tidy up this mess.
Ben: Can I at least keep looking at you?
Meg: If this is such a pleasure for you then YES, you can.
Ben (grinning): Of course it’s a pleasure.
Meg blushes again and comes back to packing. After about half an hour, with a little bit of Ben’s help, she is done with both – packing and cleaning.
Ben: Great job, Ms. Cummings.
Meg: Thank you for your help, Mr. Evans. Looks like all we have left to do is take the luggage downstairs and try not to get killed by my father.
Ben: You think that can be arranged?
Meg: I don’t know, but we have no choice.
Ben: We can always use window to get out.
Meg (smiling): Right…
Ben takes the suitcases and they go downstairs. Joan and Hank are there waiting for them. From the expression on Hank’s face Meg can see that Joan has already told him everything. He looks meaningfully at Meg.
Meg: Dad, please…
Hank: Maggie, have you lost your mind?
Meg: Dad…
Hank: After everything he has done to you… He just says the word and you’re immediately doing what he wants?
Meg: That’s what I want too.
Hank: I thought you didn’t want to have anything to do with him… He lied to you.
Meg: I know… And I hated that… But now I know that Ben loves me.
Hank: How? Because he says so?
Meg: No. Because I FEEL it.
Hank: Last time you FELT it too and you ended up with broken heart. (Hank looks at Ben) And all because of him.
Ben: Look, Mr. Cummings, I know that I haven’t been exactly honest with your daughter the first time we met, but I didn’t lie to her about the way I feel. I love her more than anything and I just want to be with her. I wanna make her happy.
Hank: And you think you can?
Ben: Yeah, I think I can. But she won’t be happy knowing that you are totally against me. I’m not asking you to set up my fan club right away, but just please try not to hate me because of what happened between me and Meg. I really love her and I will prove it. To her and to you. But I just need some time.
Hank: I guess that’s not too much to ask… Since my daughter loves you so much… But remember – if you break her heart once again, I’m gonna kill you.
Meg: Dad!
Hank: And I mean it!
Ben: Don’t worry – there will be no need for that.
Hank: I hope so.
Ben: Look, I’m gonna take a good care of your daughter. I promise.
Hank: You’d better do that or you will have to deal with me.
Meg: Dad, please.
Hank: All right, all right. But you will tell me if he hurts you, won’t you?
Meg: He won’t hurt me.
Hank: If you say so.
Meg (kissing Hank’s cheek): Thank you, daddy. I really, really appreciate it.
Chapter 72 - Coming Home
February 7, Plane to Sunset Beach
Ben: What are you thinking about?
Meg: I'm thinking that I can't believe that I'm actually doing this. God, we're on our way to California. I can't believe it.
Ben: Well, you'd better believe it cause in a few hours we're gonna land in Sunset Beach.
Meg: Gosh, this is like some beautiful dream.
Ben: But it's not a dream. We are together and it's gonna stay that way forever.
Meg: I wish I could believe that.
Ben: Believe it. Because I'm gonna make sure that nothing will ever come between us again.
Meg: I'm scared, Ben. really scared.
Ben (taking her hand and looking into her eyes): Hey, I know, I know. But I'm here and will not let anyone hurt you again.
Ben smiles and kisses her lips.
***
February 7, Sunset Beach, California, The Airport
Meg (raving): Gosh, I can't believe that we're here. It's Sunset Beach.
Ben: Yes, we're home.
Meg: YOU are home.
Ben; I told you that I would make Sunset Beach home for you too.
Meg: I can't wait. But before you start making Sunset Beach home for me, I need to find a place to stay.
Ben: You know that my house is always open for you.
Meg: I know. But I'm just not ready. yet. I'd rather find a place on my own for some time.
Ben: Sure. But I guess you're too exhausted to do it now. I'll drive you to the hotel.
Meg: OK.
Ben calls for a cab and they go to Sea Breeze. Ben pays and they get off.
Ben (pointing Sea Breeze): It's not a big one, but it's quite nice.
Meg: Hey, you're talking to a girl from Ludlow. Believe me, I don't need any luxuries.
Ben: You deserve them.
Meg: Well, even if I do, I'll be content with Sea Breeze.
Ben (smiles): Sure.
They go inside. Ben tells Meg to wait and settles everything. Soon he hands her the key.
Meg: Thanks. What about the payment?
Ben: Don't you worry about that.
Meg: Ben, you didn't.
Ben: I told you not to worry.
Meg: Ben, this is called spoiling.
Ben: I don't care what you call it. I like it.
Ben takes Meg's suitcases and they go upstairs. Meg opens the door and they get in.
Meg: Thanks for your help.
Ben: My pleasure.
Meg: So, don't you have any business to run?
Ben: Actually right now I don't. I think that I can stay a little bit longer.
He smiles and leans to kiss her. She pulls away.
Meg: Oh no, Ben Evans, I have other things to do.
Ben: Like what?
Meg: Like unpacking my clothes. So if you really wanna stay here, you will have to help me.
Ben: I'll do that with great pleasure.
Meg (smiling): I promise - no pink sweaters.
Ben (grinning): Why? I liked that one.
Meg: Yeah, right.
Ben: I did.
Meg: That's not funny, so would you just please stop it.
Ben: OK, OK. So what do you want me to do?
Meg (pointing the bigger suitcase): You can hand me this.
Ben: And what if I do THIS instead of helping you to unpack?
Ben walks closer and kisses her again.
Meg: Then I'll have to call the security.
Ben: And what if I tell you that there is no phone?
Meg: Then I'll scream for help.
Ben: And what if I tell you that no one will hear you?
Meg: Well then I will have to do THIS.
She smiles and gives him a passionate kiss.
Ben (grins): That's a great choice.
Meg: I knew you would like that.
Ben: I do.
He starts kissing her passionately, but she pulls away.
Meg: But there IS a phone, and I'm sure that if I start screaming someone WILL hear me.
Ben: Then let's check it.
He smiles and takes her in his arms starting to kiss her passionately.
Meg (laughs): I will scream..
Ben: Go on.
He kisses her again, but screaming for help is the last thing she does.
Chapter 73 - First Morning At Home
February 8, Sunset Beach, California, Sea Breeze Motel
Meg wakes up and sees the unpacked suitcases.
Meg (thinks): You helped me with everything, Ben. BUT the suitcases.
She smiles and looks at Ben. He is still sleeping with the incredible smile on his face. She strokes his hair. He starts to stir. He opens his eyes and sees her smiling face above his head.
Ben: God, I was scared that this was just a dream.
Meg: It was not.
Ben: Now I know.
He smiles and pulls her closer for a kiss.
Meg (blushing a little): I must say that if all my days here will be as wonderful as my first night here, then I'm sure that I will love living here.
Ben: You will. Trust me.
Meg (nestling into Ben's arms): You know, I can't wait to start my life in Sunset Beach.
Ben; Well, like they say - today is the first day of the rest of your life, right?
Meg: Right. But I'm afraid it's not gonna be very much fun.
Ben: Why?
Meg: Well, first I need to find a place to stay.
Ben: You're right - that may be kind of hard.
Meg: And then I need to find a job. I can't live on the money I have. It wouldn't be enough even for two weeks.
Ben: Then I guess I have good news for you. About the job.
Meg: Yeah? And why is that?
Ben: Well, as I told you I have two clubs - Internet CafE9 and the night club.
Meg: And?
Ben: And I'm looking for a waitress.
Meg: Oh really?
Ben: Really. Do you have any experience with that?
Meg: Well, I worked as a waitress through my college years.
Ben: You did?
Meg: Yes.
Ben: Then why didn't I know that?
Meg (smiles): There are many things you don't know about me.
Ben: But I hope to be able to learn them all.
Meg: I'm afraid that if you learn everything. I mean EVERYTHING, then you might stop liking me.
Ben: I don't think that's possible.
Meg: Believe me, it is.
Ben: Still I want to know all your secrets.
Meg: You might not like some of them.
Ben: Oh, I think I will take that risk.
Meg (laughs): But don't say I didn't warn you.
Ben: Don't worry, I think I can handle this.
Meg: If you say so.
Ben: The only think I wouldn't handle is loosing you again.
Meg: Well, that's something you don't have to worry about. unless you have some hidden children that your wife and I didn't know of.
Ben: I don't. Trust me.
Meg: I don't have a choice.
Ben: That's right - you don't.
He smiles and kisses her forehead and cheek finally reaching for her lips. She kisses him back, wondering if she is ever gonna get out of bed...
Chapter 74 - The Offer
February 8, Sunset Beach, California, The Deep
Meg looks around a little bit frightened. Suddenly she sees a nice looking blonde coming closer to her.
The blonde: So, you are the new waitress?
Meg: I guess.
The blonde: Ben told me about you and also asked me to take care of you and show everything to you. I'm Mark Wolper. I work here and in the Java Web.
Meg: Hi, I'm Meg Cummings.
Mark: Nice to meet you.
Meg: You too.
Mark: So, you came here from Kansas, didn't you?
Meg (smiling): Looks like Ben has already told you everything about me.
Mark: Not everything.
Meg: Yeah, I'm from Kansas.
Mark: So, what are you doing here? Ben didn't want to say much about how you two met.
Meg (understanding that Ben wants to keep everything as a secret right now): Let's just say that I decided to start a new life. I always loved sunsets. and since it's Sunset Beach.
Mark: Another sunsets lover... There are many of them here.
Meg: Well, who wouldn't love sunsets. and the beach. it's incredible.
Mark: I agree. I love living in Sunset Beach.
Meg (sighs): Ben does too.
Mark: It's a pity he and his wife are getting divorced. They were such a wonderful couple. I don't know what went wrong between them. People say that he has found another woman (Meg thrills) But I haven't asked him about her.And he doesn't say much.
Meg: Well, maybe when the time comes, he will.
Mark: Probably.
Meg: Do you know his wife?
Mark: Maria? Sure. She is the sweetest person I have ever meet. Everyone loves her.(Meg becomes sad) But coming back to you - where are you staying?
Meg: Actually right now I'm at Sea Breeze. I need to find something on my own.
Mark: Well, if you're interested in sharing a house on the beach with a couple of crazy people, then I might have an offer for you.
Meg: What do you mean?
Mark: Well my friends Casey and Rae has just bough a house on the beach and they are still looking for roommates.
Meg: And who lives there besides them?
Mark: Only me and Michael. He is a great guy. They all are great.
Meg: Sounds interesting.
Mark: Yeah, I think you might like it. I'll give you a number later so you can talk to Casey about the rent.
Meg (smiles): Sure. Thanks.
Ben (coming closer smiling): I can see that you two are working really hard.
Mark: Sorry, we were just chatting.
Ben: You're forgiven.
Mark: I will be coming back to work. I don't wanna loose the job (Mark smiles) Bye, Meg, I'll talk to you later.
Meg: Bye.
Mark walks away.
Ben: Did he treat you well?
Meg: Yes, it's just that.
Ben: What?
Meg: I have an impression that he likes Maria very much and.
Ben: Hey, don't worry about that. Everything will be fine.
Meg: You think so?
Ben: I know. Just give it some time.
Meg (smiling): I think I can do that.
Ben: Good.
Meg: Oh and I have a great news for you. Mark asked me to stay with him and his friends.
Ben: At Surf - Central?
Meg: Where?
Ben: That's how they call their house.
Meg: Have you been there?
Ben: Yeah, a couple of times. It's a really nice place. And nice people are living there.
Meg: That's what Mark said.
Ben: He was right. Besides they all save lives.
Meg: What do you mean?
Ben: Well, Rae is a doctor and Michael and Casey are lifeguards.
Meg: Lifeguards, huh? We didn't have any in Ludlow. Well, we didn't need any. Unless someone had to be saved from drowning in hay.
Ben (smiles): Well, here the lifeguards have much to do.
Meg: I can imagine.
Chapter 75 - Removal
February 9, Sunset Beach, California, Surf - Central
Mark (opening the door to Surf - Central): Hi, Meg. Casey told me that you had decided to accept the offer.
Meg: Yeah, I talked to him about the payments and it seems that I can afford it.
Mark: That's great. Come on in. I'll take your luggage.
Meg: Thanks.
Mark takes Meg's suitcases and they go inside. Rae, Casey and Michael are there.
Mark (putting the suitcases on the floor): Hey guys, this is Meg Cummings. (he turns to Meg and points Casey and Rae) These are the owners.
Meg (looking at Casey): Then you must be Casey.
Casey: That's right, Casey Mitchum. Nice to meet you.
Meg: Nice to meet you too.
Rae: Hi, I'm Rea Chang.
Meg: Hi, Ben told me that you were a doctor.
Casey: The best one.
Meg starts to laugh. Mark points Michael.
Mark: And this is Michael Bourne.
Meg: Hi Michael. It's nice to meet you.
Michael: You too.
Meg: Thank you guys for letting me stay here. I really appreciate it.
Casey: Don't mention it. Besides we needed a roommate.
Meg: All right, I get it.
Mark (taking Meg's suitcases): Come on, I'll show you your room.
They go upstairs and Casey, Rae and Michael follow them. Mark leads Meg into her room and puts the suitcases on the floor.
Mark: This is it. Not very big, but.
Meg: It's really nice. I love it. It's very much like my old room in Ludlow.
Michael: Where?
Mark: Oh, I forgot to tell you - Meg is from Ludlow, Kansas.
Michael: Kansas, huh? So have you lived on a huge farm among all those corny fields?
Meg (laughing): Something like that. I'm very much a Kansas girl.
Casey: Well, that's good, cause we may actually need someone like you.
Meg: Really?
Casey: Yeah, someone with a fresh mind. We are kind of fed up with the ocean and the beach and all that stuff. But we love it!
Rae: Definitely.
Casey: So this is your room. The bathroom is at the end of the hall. The kitchen is downstairs.
Meg: What about the meals? Is there any order?
Mark (laughs): No. Nothing is in order here right now. But we'll talk about it later.
Meg: Sure?
Casey: Oh and one more thing - you can put in your room whatever you like as long as it doesn't lead to the house destruction.
Meg (laughs): Don't worry, all I have is the stuff from my high school and college years in Ludlow.
Mark: Well, we would love to see it someday.
Meg: You will. I just need to throw the things which could discredit me.
Rae: Are there any?
Meg (laughs) You would be surprised.
Michael: We would really LOVE to see them.
Meg: No way. You would tell me to go back to Kansas with the first flight.
Casey: Personally I doubt that, but if you say so. (smiles) Anyway, if you wanna know anything, just feel free to ask.
Meg: I will.
Casey: I think that would be all for now. We'll give you some time to unpack.
Meg: Thanks.
Meg smiles and her new roommates leave the room. She sits on the bed and looks around.
Meg (sighs): So, this is my new home. (Not for long, LOL... - G.) (smiles) I think I might like it here.
Chapter 76 - Starting A New Life
February 10, Sunset Beach, California, Surf - Central
Meg: Mom, hi it's me Meg.
Joan: Meg, sweetheart, how are you? Is everything OK?
Meg: I'm fine. Everything is just perfect. I'm sorry I didn't call you earlier, but I've been busy unpacking and working..
Joan (nicely surprised): You've got a job?
Meg: Yeah, in Ben's clubs. I work as a waitress. It's a really great job and I met a few wonderful people. Mark asked me to stay with him.
Joan: You live with a stranger?
Meg: No, no, no. It's not like that. Casey, Michael and Rae also live there. It's a huge house at the beach. It's wonderful.
Joan: Well, I'm glad that you're making new friends.
Meg: Yeah, my new roommates seem really nice. And they told me that I didn't have to cook for the first three days. Isn't that great? (LOL! - G.) There are still some things to do in the house, but I'm sure it's gonna be great working on it. Actually everything is great here. I wish you could see the beach and the ocean. And the sunsets. God, yesterday was the most incredible sunset I've ever seen.
Joan: I'm so happy that you like Sunset Beach so much.
Meg: I love it, mom. I really do. It's wonderful here.
Joan: OK, but do you promise to call often?
Meg: I promise, I promise. Is dad over there? Can I talk to him?
Joan: Unfortunately he is in Kansas City running some business. I'll tell him you called.
Meg: OK. And tell him that I love him.
Joan: I will.
Meg: Oh, and give my best to Ryan, Matt, Ashley and Jessica, OK?
Joan: Sure.
Meg: I've gotta be going, I don't wanna be late for work.
Joan: Then I'm not gonna keep you. Just take care of yourself.
Meg: Don't worry, mom. I will be fine.
Joan: I love you, sweetheart.
Meg: I know. I love you too, mom.
Meg hangs up. She feels a single tear rolling on her cheek, but she is happy about being in Sunset Beach. Suddenly the door open. It's Ben with a single white rose. He hands it to Meg with a gorgeous smile on his face.
Meg (grinning): What's the occasion?
Ben: Your third day in Sunset Beach.
Meg: Oh. (smiles) Thank you.
Meg walks closer and gives Ben a kiss.
Ben: If that's a thank you for the rose then I'm gonna give you one every minute.
Meg: I can't wait.
Ben smiles and kisses Meg letting his lips linger on hers a little longer than she expected. Meg pulls away and smiles.
Meg: I wish I could stay to finish that, Mr. Evans but unfortunately I have to be on time for work. I don't wanna loose the job and my boss be pretty strict sometimes.
Ben: Strict you say?
Meg: Yeah. That's why you have to excuse me. (Meg heads towards the door) I need to hurry up.
Ben (grabbing her arm): Not so fast.
Meg (in rebuking voice): Ben.
Ben: Hey, you can always take the day off.
Meg: Ben, it's my third day at work. I can't just take a day off whenever I like.
Ben: And what if I give you my special permission?
Meg: Ben, you cannot treat me in a different way than the other staff members.
Ben: I don't treat you in a different way than the other staff members. They always get the day off when they desperately ask for it.
Meg: But I don't remember asking for a day off. Especially DESPERATELY.
Ben: You will. As soon as I'm finished with you.
Meg: Oh really?
Ben: You wanna bet?
Ben smiles from ear to ear and starts kissing Meg passionately. He holds her closer and closer, making it understood that he is not going let her go. At first she tries to pull away, but when she feels Ben lips thirsty for her kisses, she gives up.
Meg (laughing): All right, all right, I'm taking the day off.
Ben (grinning): That's what I thought.
Meg: I'm gonna get you for that Ben Evans.
Ben: I don't think so.
He smiles and kisses her again.
Chapter 77 - A Day Off
February 10, Sunset Beach, California, The Park
Meg: It's really beautiful here. I love it. Actually I love everything about Sunset Beach - the beach, the ocean, the pier, the sunsets. Everything.
Ben: Sunset Beach is beautiful indeed. Ad there are many things about it you haven't seen yet. But don't worry - one day I'm gonna show you all of them.
Meg: I really can't wait. This town really seems to very mysterious.
Ben: It is. After all this is the town that romance built.
Meg: Really?
Ben: Yes. There is a legend about SB, but I suggest you should listen to it from Elaine. No one can talk about SB the way she does.
Meg: Who is Elaine?
Ben: She runs a Waffle Shop in Sunset Beach. Her daughter Paula is a policeofficer.
Meg: Casey mentioned Paula
once or twice. They seem to be friends.
Ben: I think they are. They have known each other since they were kids.
Meg: You know, Sunset Beach sometimes seems to be very much like Ludlow. Everybody knows everybody.
Ben: Well, it's a small town.
Meg: But still it doesn't work the way it did in Ludlow.
Ben: What do you mean?
Meg: In Ludlow everyone really knows everyone. And I mean REALLY.
Ben: That must be funny.
Meg: Sometimes it is. But sometimes it's annoying. Because no matter what you do, everybody knows about it. When Tim and I got engaged.
The conversation is interrupted by Ben's cell phone.
Ben: Ben Evans. Hi Mark... Now?... All right, I'm on my way... Bye.
Meg: Was that Mark? Is something wrong?
Ben: No, no, they just need some papers at the Deep. I'm afraid I will have to go home to take them.
Meg: Do you want me to come with you?
Ben: I would be honored.
He smiles and takes Meg's hand. They walk along the beach and after some time they reach Ben's house. They go inside.
Ben (heading towards the stairs): I'll be right back.
Meg: Sure.
Meg waits about a few minutes and soon Ben is back with some papers.
Meg (looking around): God, it's a beautiful house. I didn't notice it the first time I was here.
Ben (remembering the fight on New Year's Eve): I know.
Meg: The house is really wonderful. But not as wonderful as its owner.
Ben (grinning): You think so?
Meg: Definitely.
Meg smiles and Ben pulls her closer for a kiss. Suddenly they hear someone clapping hands. Ben realizes that it's Annie, who of course doesn't know what knocking and ringing the doorbell is.
Annie: Wow. So this is the little one you left Maria for.
Ben (looking at her icily): Annie.
Annie (turns to Meg): You know, they should put such a bitches like you to jail!
Ben: Annie, please.
Annie: No, that little bitch stole a husband from my best friend and I want her to know what I think about her!
Ben: Annie, that really doesn't matter what you think.
Annie: I really think you should be ashamed of yourself! Chasing after a married man.
Meg: I did not chase after him. And I did not know that he was married.
Annie: Yeah, right. And I'm Virgin Mary. (turns to Ben) You know, Ben, I really thought that you had a better taste.
Ben (angry): That's enough, Annie!
Annie: Where the hell did you get her from? Did you dig her up on a corn field?
Ben: Annie, I said it was enough! And now - get out!
Annie: Is that how you treat an old friend?
Ben: I said get out, or I'm gonna throw you out of here.
Annie: You wouldn't dare.
Ben: Do you really wanna try?
Annie: All right, I'm going. I'll leave you alone with your lover.
Ben: Annie.
Annie: Don't forget that your divorce is not finalized yet.
Ben comes closer to Annie and grabs her hand.
Annie: Save it. I know where the door is.
Ben: I hope so.
Ben and Meg watch Annie walking away. Ben turns to Meg.
Ben: I'm sorry about it.
Meg: Don't be. Besides she is right - I took you away from your wife and all of your friends are going to hate me for what I did. They loved you and Maria together. How are they going to look at me?
Ben: Hey, hey, hey. That's not like that. Listen to me - you DID NOT take me away from Maria. Our marriage was a farce a long before I met you. We would have gotten divorced sooner or later.
Meg: But it was sooner. because of me. And who knows - if it hadn't been for me, maybe you would have worked things out.
Ben: Believe me - we wouldn't have.
Meg: How can you know?
Ben: Look, I don't want you to think that you are the cause of the trouble between me and Maria, because you're not. You're the best thing that has ever happened to me. And that's how I want you to think about yourself. I love you and I will not let you think that you've hurt anyone. You haven't.
Meg: What about your wife?
Ben: Look, I told you that we were having problems. The divorce was a way out for her too.
Meg: I wish I could believe that.
Ben: Believe it, because it's true. You're not guilty of anything, understand?
Meg: OK, OK. I just hate the thought of.
Ben: Meg.
Meg: All right, all right. (Meg points the papers Ben is holding) Ben, you were supposed to bring those to the Deep.
Ben: I'm on my way.
Meg: Very long way. Mark called over an hour ago.
Ben: I guess I should hurry up.
Meg: I think you should.
She smiles and they leave the house.
Chapter 78 - A Perfect Hour
February 14, Sunset Beach, California, Surf - Central
Meg looks around her room thinking of the times she spent in Sunset Beach. It has been only a few days and she feels like she has been living here her whole life.
Meg (thinks): So I really started my new life, huh? I didn't think that it would be so wonderful.
The phone rings.
Meg: Hello.
Ben: Hi. Happy Valentine's Day.
Meg: Thank you. I'm glad you remembered.
Ben: Are you kidding? I was supposed to forget about this day when I have such a wonderful Valentine by my side? No way. Did you find the little gift I left you?
Meg: A gift? What gift?
Ben: You didn't. Then maybe you should walk out of your room for a second.
Meg smiles and puts the earphone down for a moment. She leaves the room and finds a single white rose hanging on the handle. It has a note attached saying 'Happy Valentine's Day. Yours forever, Ben' Meg takes the rose, gently kisses it and takes the earphone.
Meg: How did you.. Never mind. It's beautiful, thank you.
Ben: My pleasure.
Meg (smiling): Why do I get the feeling that it's not the end for today.
Ben: Maybe because it's not. I have a surprise for you. Meet me at the pier in fifteen minutes.
Meg: Ben Evans, what are you up to?
Ben: Just meet me there.
Meg: Why?
Ben: You'll like it. Trust me. So.
Meg: You can count on me.
Ben: Good. I love you.
Meg: I love you too.
Meg hangs up and sighs. She opens the wardrobe trying to figure out what to put on. Finally she chooses red dress she hopes Ben will like. She fixes up her make up and hair-do and leaves. After a few minutes she is at the pier. Ben is already there waiting for her with another white rose.
Meg (smiles): Soon I won't have space to put them all.
Ben: Great. Them maybe you would move in with me. (sees the expression on Meg's face) Just kidding.
Meg: I hope so. So what's the surprise?
Ben (taking her hand): Come on.
Meg: Where to?
Ben: You'll see.
Ben smiles and they walk along the beach for about ten minutes. Then the way begins to be a little rocky and they have to climb higher and higher. Finally they reach the top of the rocks, placed just above the ocean. One can see nearly the whole town from the rock, as well as the ocean and the beach. The view is really spectacular.
Meg: It's beautiful here.
Ben: Well, I told you I would show you al the wonderful places in Sunset Beach and this is one of them.
Meg: It certainly is wonderful. Thank you for bringing me here.
Ben: I'm honored to be here with you.
Meg smiles and looks around. She notices a blanket with a basket on it.
Meg (pointing it): Is that a part of the view too?
Ben: Not exactly. But I hope you like it.
Meg: I love it. I always dreamt about a picnic on the beach.
Ben: Well, this is not exactly beach.
Meg: It's even better. Thank you, thank you so much.
Meg's eyes start sparkling the way Ben loves.
Ben (pulling Meg closer and stealing a single kiss): You know, I really love seeing you like this.
Meg: Like what?
Ben: So cheerful, joyful, happy.
Meg: Well, I am happy. I'm happier than ever. I can't believe that this is really happening.
Ben: What?
Meg: You and me together. I have dreamt about being with you like this. It feels like my whole life is beginning to be perfect.
Ben: Our life will be perfect, I promise you.
Meg: God, Ben, can you believe that I'm actually carrying your child.
Ben: Yeah, and if I'm not mistaken, it's a little more six months before the little one is born.
Meg: You're not mistaken - it was the Thanksgiving farewell.
Ben (grins): Well then it was not just about pleasure.
Meg: Ben, we created a child. a new life. It's amazing.
Ben: Yeah, and it's amazing that you're here with me.
Meg: Don't worry, I'm not going anywhere.
Ben: Well, I wouldn't let you go. I will NEVER let you go again. We will always be together.
Meg: I really hope so, Ben.
Ben: We will.
He smiles and pulls her closer for a kiss. She lets his lips linger on hersfor as long as he wants. The kiss is the most passionate they have ever shared.
Chapter 79 - Partying!
February 16, Sunset Beach, California, Surf - Central
Rae: OK Casey, just put this picture over there and we're done.
Casey (smiles): We're done?
Rae (screams): Yes, yes!!!!! Our new house is ready!!!
Casey: I can't believe it! It's really done!!!
Casey runs to Rae and embraces her.
Mark: Looks like we really did it. The house look great!
Casey: Yeah, congratulations guys.
He looks at Michael, Mark and Meg.
Meg: Don't look at me. I didn't do anything, I just moved in here.
Michael: Come one, you painted the kitchen.
Meg (laughs): Yeah, and that's why it looks like it looks.
Casey: How? It looks great.
Meg: Right. And I'm the queen of England.
Rae: Meg, the kitchen looks perfect.
Meg: All right, if you say so.
Casey: I think we should have a party to celebrate.
Michael: That's a great idea.
Mark: Yeah, we could invite the people we know and show them our new house.
Rae: Great. When?
Casey: Tomorrow.
Rae: Fine with me. What about you?
Mark: I'm in.
Michael: Me too.
Meg (laughs): Do I have a choice?
Michael: No.
Meg: I'm in.
Casey: All right, then a huge party tomorrow. I can't wait.
***
February 16, Sunset Beach, California, Surf - Central
Meg looks at the phone not being sure if inviting Ben is such a great idea. But finally she comes to the conclusion that Ben is Mark's and Casey's friend too after all, so it won't be wrong if she asks him to come. She dials his number.
Ben: Ben Evans.
Meg: Ben, it's me.
Ben: Hey beautiful. What's up?
Meg: I'm calling to invite you to the party.
Ben: A party?
Meg: Yeah, we're celebrating the fact that the house is already finished.
Ben: It is?
Meg: Yes. So will you be here?
Ben: I'd be honored. What time?
Meg: Eight o'clock.
Ben: Great. I'll be there. See you tomorrow at work.
Meg; See you.
***
February 17, Sunset Beach, California, Surf - Central
Ben: This is a great party. You did a great job.
Mark: Thanks, we tried.
Ben: Well, this party is definitely a success.
Meg: Well, it's a great occasion, isn't it?
Casey: Definitely.
Mark: Look, who's there.
Mark points dark haired handsome guy with a beautiful woman by his side. They slowly make their way to Mark, Casey, Ban and Meg.
Casey (hugging the woman): Hey Paula, I'm glad you could make it.
Paula: Are you kidding? I wouldn't miss it.
Casey (turning to the man): It's great to see you too, Ricardo.
Ricardo: Yeah, hey to you all.
Casey (pointing Meg): Oh, and this is Meg Cummings. She is new in town and our new roommate.
Ricardo: I'm Ricardo Torres.
Mark (proudly): SBPD's detective.
Meg: Really?
Ricardo (blushing): Really.
Meg: Wow. It's nice to meet you Ricardo.
Paula: I'm Paula Stevens.
Meg: Ben told me about you. You're Elaine's daughter, right?
Paula: Right. I am a police officer too.
Casey: Oh and there is one thing you need to know - they are very much in love.
Mark: Yeah, soon to be married.
Meg (raving): You're engaged! That's wonderful! Congratulations!
Paula: Thank you.
A young blond haired guy comes closer to them.
Mark: Hi, Sean, how is it going?
Sean: Fine. Great party.
Mark: Thanks. Sean, this is Meg. (he turns to Meg) Meg, this is Sean Richards, Gregory Richard's son.
Meg: Gregory is a friend of Ben's, isn't he?
Sean: Yeah, they have known each other for ages. Nice to meet you Meg.
Mark: Sean, where is your Caitlin?
Sean: Somewhere over there (he points a young blond) Meg, this is my sister Caitlin.
Meg: I see.
Meg looks around. She smiles.
Meg (thinks): Could it be my new home?
Chapter 80 - Happy Times
February 20, Sunset Beach, California, Ben Evans' house
Meg enters Ben's house and realizes that the table doesn't look like it used to - there are candles on it, as well as a bouquet of white roses and some food. Meg smiles as she sees Ben coming inside the living room.
Meg: God, you really are spoiling me. Every step on your way.
Ben: I love spoiling you.
Meg: And I love being spoiled by you, but YOU have a business to run and you cannot focus only on spoiling me.
Ben: Actually, you are the only thing I would like to focus on.
Meg (laughs): Oh, oh, I can imagine.
Ben: So, would you do me the honor and join me for dinner?
Meg: You know I would. I could never say 'no' to such a charmer.
Ben: Charmer, huh?
Meg: Definitely. I love you.
Ben: I love you too.
He kisses her and leads her to the table.
Ben: Oh, and before we eat, I just wanted to say something.
Meg: What?
Ben smiles and hands Meg a glass of champagne.
Ben: I just wanted to tell you that you being here is the most amazing gift I could ever ask for. I don't know what I did to deserve you, but I've never felt so happy in my entire life. And thank you Meg Cummings for everything you did for me.
Meg: And what did I do?
Ben: You showed me a completely new world, the world I had never seen before. And you made me see many things I had never noticed before. And you loved me.
Meg: I still do. I love you more than anything.
Ben: I love you too. And I nearly blew it.
Meg: Ben, don't. Please, let's not talk about the past, OK? You are the one who asked me to do that, so don't start.
Ben: You're right. This is our time. Mine and yours.
Meg (smiles): So cheers.
Ben: Cheers.
They drink the champagne looking straight into each other eyes, still not being able to believe that that wonderful night is real.
Meg: The dinner looks great. I think I need to check it out.
Ben helps her to sit down and sits next to her. They start to eat.
Meg: Mmmm, that taste wonderful.
Ben (kissing Meg): Yeah, wonderful.
Meg (blushing): Ben.
Ben: I'm sorry, but that's not my fault that your lips taste better than the dinner.
Meg: And do they?
Ben (grinning and stealing another kiss): Definitely.
Meg: But you cannot appease your hunger by kissing me.
Ben: I believe I can.
Meg: Oh really?
Ben: Really. I just need a little more of. well, you know.
Meg: I think I do.
Meg starts kissing Ben passionately.
Ben (grinning): Exactly my point.. But I'm afraid I'm still hungry.
Meg: Are you?
Ben: Yes. Very hungry.
Ben (pulling her closer and places her on his laps): That's better.
Meg: Is it?
Ben: Absolutely. (he kisses her and after a while smiles) You know, that bed upstairs is a little bit more comfortable than this chair.
Meg: Really?
Ben: You wanna check it out.
Meg (smiles): Maybe.
Ben: I'll take it as 'yes'.
He lifts her up and carries her to the bedroom, placing her gently on the bed.
Ben: So, what do you think?
Meg: I think that it IS more comfortable indeed.
She smiles and pulls him for a passionate kiss.
Ben: I told you.
He starts kissing her again and soon they have an opportunity to check how comfortable the bed really is.