LOVE THAT NEVER FADES
Chapter Forty-Three

December 24, 1912

Weeks had passed since the wedding, and before they knew it, Christmas was a day away. Not only was it Christmas Eve, it was also Rose’s eighteenth birthday, as well as the second anniversary of her father’s passing. It was daybreak, and Rose was sound asleep, her hand resting upon her swollen belly. Jack was not laying beside her, as he was busy making breakfast in the kitchen. He had also bought her a gift. Not just any gift. He had bought a house in Santa Monica—right beside Jonathan’s house—as he remembered the promise he had made to her on their honeymoon. He had sent a telegram to the owner of the house that he was interested in, telling him that he was planning on moving in once they were ready and once the baby was born. Jack didn’t know whether he should show her the deed to the house on her birthday or tomorrow—on Christmas Day. Jack shut off the stove, the eggs scrambled and the sausages heated. The aroma of the cooked breakfast filled the air, causing Jack to glance at the door, wondering if Rose would awaken. A Christmas tree, decorated with green, red, and gold ornaments, was in the corner of the parlor. Also, their first Christmas ornament was on the tree, as well. It read: Jack and Rose Dawson’s First Christmas Together, 1912, and on the back of the beautiful heart ornament, Jack had a message written: Life is a gift, so don’t waste it. Make each day count, and never let go of your promises. I love you, Rose. Always have, always will. When Jack had shown the ornament to Rose, she was touched, and had given Jack a powerful hug, along with several kisses.

Jack smiled, putting scrambled eggs on a plate, along with a sausage and some hotcakes. Jack took the plate and put it on a tray, along with a glass of orange juice and a wrapped gift. Jack picked up the tray and looked up, walking out of the kitchen and into the Christmas-decorated parlor, turning and pressing his shoulder against the partially closed bedroom door, opening it as quietly as he could, catching sight of Rose, still sound asleep. He chuckled quietly, putting the tray on the nightstand beside him, sitting on the edge of the bed, and staring at Rose. She looked like an angel sound asleep—and when she was awake. Jack gently grazed his hand against her cheek, removing some curls that had fallen in her face. Jack felt Rose stir under his touch, seeing a smile spread across her face. His smile grew when he saw her eyes flutter open, gazing at him drowsily but lovingly.

"Well, good morning," Rose said, her voice sleepy. Her drowsy smile brightened her face.

"Good morning to you, my love," Jack said, leaning down to give Rose a gentle kiss. "Happy eighteenth birthday." Jack’s voice was sincere and loving as he took Rose’s hand in his, stroking it ever so gently.

"Thank you," Rose said, smiling and sitting up.

Jack stood up and propped the pillows up behind her to make her more comfortable. He smiled at Rose and pressed his lips against her forehead before stepping back.

"Are you comfortable?" Jack asked, looking at her with generous eyes.

Rose smiled and nodded. "Pretty comfortable," Rose said, putting her hands over her stomach.

"Good," Jack said, picking up the tray and putting it in her lap. "You get to have breakfast in bed."

Rose smiled, looking at the food. "Hmm…looks delicious," Rose said. She looked at him, her eyes twinkling. "You made this?"

"Mmm-hmm," Jack said, nodding. "I would do anything for my birthday girl."

"Anything?" Rose asked, a teasing smile on her face.

"Anything," Jack concluded, nodding his head.

"All right. Why don’t you dress into one of my dresses?" Rose said. "Just for the fun of it."

"Me? Put on a dress?" Jack asked, pointing to himself.

"Well, you said that you would do anything for your birthday girl, so I want to see you in a dress," Rose said, smiling. "I want to see just how handsome you look in a maternity dress."

"If you want to see me in a dress, you’ll see me in a dress," Jack said, walking towards the closet and pulling out one of Rose’s lavender dresses. He smiled, slipping it on. He turned to Rose and spread his arms out, looking at himself. "Well, what do you think?"

Rose couldn’t hold back the giggle that was creeping into her throat. She put a hand over her mouth, her eyes glistening with laughter. Her laughter filled the room as she saw Jack turn around, the dress falling to the floor.

"So, you find this amusing, huh?" Jack asked, smiling.

"I should say that I do," Rose said, her smile broadening.

"Well, why don’t you put on some of my clothes, huh?" Jack asked, pointing to the dresser, a playful smile on his face and his eyes shining with laughter. "I’d like to see you in pants."

"All right, then," Rose said, putting the tray beside her, getting out of bed, and pulling off the nightgown she wore. She waddled over to the dresser, pulling out a pair of Jack’s corduroy pants and carefully slipping them on. She took out a clean shirt and put it on, pulling the suspenders over her shoulders. She looked at herself, smiling. The pants were long on her, covering her feet, and the shirt sleeves covered her hands. She looked at Jack and smiled. "Well, how do I look?"

Jack nodded, satisfied by what he saw. "You look pretty good for a pregnant woman dressed in men’s clothing," Jack said, putting a hand under his chin. "You should wear them more often."

Rose laughed. "You don’t look bad yourself," Rose joked. "Pretty handsome, too."

Jack chuckled, stepping towards her and putting his hands on her hips. He smiled and pressed his cheek against hers.

"I may be handsome," Jack began. "But I know that I’m also madly in love with you."

Rose smiled, holding onto him. "I should say that I feel the same," Rose said.

Jack leaned in, pressing his lips against hers, bringing her into an intense kiss that emphasized his love for her and holding her close. He chuckled between their kisses, feeling a kick from his unborn child. Jack caressed her abdomen with gentle fingers, continuing to kiss her. Moments later, he pulled away and gazed into her eyes.

"My love," Jack whispered, stroking her cheek lovingly. "I don’t know what I’d do without you in my life."

"I don’t know, either," Rose said, looking at him.

Jack smiled and pressed his forehead against hers, looking deeply into Rose’s eyes.

"Why are we just standing here?" Jack asked. "You should be sitting down, eating your breakfast."

As if on cue, Rose’s stomach growled. "Well, maybe I should go and eat," Rose said, walking towards the bed, where she sat down against the propped pillows, bringing the tray back into her lap. She looked up and watched as Jack removed the dress and put it on a chair, sitting down and watching his wife eat. "Why are you sitting over there? Come over here, and if you’re a good boy, I’ll feed you."

Jack smiled, getting up and walking towards the bed, where he sat beside her. "If I’m a good boy, huh?" Jack asked, chuckling.

"Yes," Rose said. "If you’re a good boy. Which means no kissing me when I’m trying to eat, and no touching. Deal?"

"Ah…you’re gonna torture me that bad?" Jack asked. "I can hardly keep my lips off of you…" Jack pressed his lips against her cheek.

"Ah-ah-ah," Rose said, shaking a finger. "Be a good boy before Mommy lets you starve for the morning."

Jack pouted and sat back as if he were obeying his mother. "Yes, Mom…" Jack said, holding back a smile.

Rose giggled, put some scrambled eggs on the fork, and held it out to Jack, who opened his mouth, welcoming the taste of the delicious eggs. He chewed gracefully and nodded his head.

"See?" Rose asked, looking at her food and feeding herself. "Doesn’t hurt to obey a few rules, now, does it?"

"And who says that I was obeying your rules?" Jack teased, looking at Rose.

"I said so," Rose said. "I’m the one carrying your child, who you created with our lovemaking."

Jack laughed. "Oh, so now you’re complaining about carrying my child?" Jack asked, scooting closer to her and putting an arm around her. "I thought you were thrilled about holding my child inside your body."

Rose looked into his eyes and smiled. "I am," Rose said. "I’m more than thrilled, to tell you the truth. I’m pleased, grateful, happy. I would carry hundreds more, as long as they’re yours, too."

Jack smiled, looking into her eyes. "I love you, Rose," Jack said.

"Forevermore," Rose added. "I love you as well, my darling."

"Go on," Jack said. "Finish your breakfast. You need to feed that little one inside you as well as yourself."

Rose grinned and looked at her food, finishing up the last bits of food that were left after she had shared some with Jack and had eaten the rest herself. The moment she finished devouring her breakfast, she picked up the glass of orange juice, taking several gulps and handing the rest to Jack, who took it and drank the rest of the juice. Rose smiled, suddenly catching a glimpse of a wrapped gift on the tray.

"What’s this?" Rose asked, lifting the wrapped gift, which was square and about two inches thick.

"Why don’t you open it and find out?" Jack asked, nodding his head towards the wrapped gift.

Rose looked at the gift and did as she was told, revealing a Macy’s box. She pulled the lid off and gasped when she found a locket. She carefully removed the necklace from the box, opening the locket and revealing a small picture of Jack and herself. She looked at him, with her eyes glistening with tears.

"Oh, Jack," Rose whispered, awestruck and not knowing what to say. "I love it. It’s beautiful…"

"Glad you like it," Jack said. "Picked it myself. Sort of reminded me of you when I saw the locket."

Rose could see why it reminded Jack of her, for on the front of the locket, a rose was engraved. Rose ran her fingers over the smooth metal and couldn’t help but throw her arms around Jack, thanking him numerous times until Jack laughed and said that it was his gift to her for her birthday.

"Would you mind putting it on me?" Rose asked, handing him the necklace.

"Not at all," Jack said, taking the necklace, clasping it around her neck, and kissing her cheek. "Happy birthday, my love."

"Thank you again," Rose said. "You’re such a wonderful husband. But you have to know that I don’t need gifts to know that you love me. I don’t need material things so you can show how much you love me. Jack, I would give everything up so I could be close to you." She looked at him and reached for his hand. "Jack, remember when I said that I’d get off with you when the Titanic docked?"

Jack nodded, remembering every word that had been spoken. "Of course," Jack said, gripping her hand.

"Well, if the ship hadn’t sunk, I would’ve gotten off with you—even if it meant living in the streets," Rose said, her voice filled with truth and love. "Nothing means more to me than you being by my side."

Jack smiled, and in seconds pulled Rose into a passionate kiss. Their lips brushed against each other‘s, their tongues stroking each other with gentle love. Jack pressed his fingers against Rose’s cheeks, slowly pulling away.

"So, what would the birthday girl like to do today?" Jack asked, knowing that he had the day off, along with Christmas Day as well.

"I don’t know," Rose said, looking into his eyes. Suddenly, a sly smile came across her face. "Well, maybe you could draw me like one of your French girls again…" Rose played with his shirt collar. "The first one is lost with the Titanic, and I figured we could have another one as a memory…just meant for the two of us."

Jack’s smile grew, his eyes dancing with happiness. "Hmm…sounds good to me," Jack said, tucking a ruby ringlet behind Rose’s ear. "I’ll go get my stuff."

"And I’ll undress here," Rose said, winking at him. She saw Jack smile at her, quickly getting off of the bed and scurrying into the parlor.

Rose slid off the bed carefully, removing Jack’s clothes, along with her underwear, and got back on the bed, pulling the sheet over her bare body. Her breasts were full, preparing to make milk for the baby that would be born in a few weeks. Benjamin had given her maternity leave and said that he would find a replacement for her until she returned. Rose, however, hadn’t liked the idea, but knew that it was for the best, for she had to think of herself and her unborn child’s safety. Moments later, she saw Jack step into the bedroom, his artist’s tools in his hand. Rose smiled, seeing him staring at her with loving, seductive eyes. After he took a deep breath, he pulled out the chair that was in the room and sat down on it, setting the portfolio in his lap.

"So," Jack began. "You want me to draw you with the sheet covering you? That’s not exactly how I drew my French girls…" Jack laughed.

"I know," Rose said. "It just got chilly in here for a bit. But I’m ready now."

With that said, Rose uncovered herself, revealing her bare body. She smiled and tried to find the best pose, but failed when she couldn’t find a perfect spot. She looked at Jack, seeing a crooked smile on his face.

"Well, are you going to help me or not?" Rose asked.

Jack chuckled and got up, walking towards her. He grabbed a few pillows and set them beside her, telling her to lie down on them. He told her to put one hand close to her face, the other over her stomach. Jack nodded approvingly, stepping back and put a hand on his chin.

"Perfect," Jack said, making his way towards the chair and getting into his drawing position. He looked at Rose, smiling. "Now, you know the deal. Stay still, no moving, no laughing…just keep your eyes on me…got it?"

"I’ve got it," Rose said calmly, looking at him and giving him a smile before she put on a serious but playful face.

Jack smiled, and in moments, he began sketching his pregnant wife. His eyes concentrated on every detail of Rose’s body while he drew it on paper. Even if he had seen her in the nude before, and had made love to her many times, he still felt his heart flutter nervously within his chest, feeling the blood rush up to his cheeks, turning them pink with embarrassment. Only fifteen minutes passed before he got Rose’s face drawn on the paper. His piercing blue eyes looked at her seriously, squinting in concentration. He looked at the paper, hearing the charcoal pencil scratch against the drawing paper, drawing lines for Rose’s beautiful, pregnant body.

Rose stayed still, keeping her pose the way Jack had made it. She looked at him and couldn’t help but smile slightly, for she saw the exact same look she had seen eight months ago in the sitting room of her stateroom on the Titanic, when Jack had drawn her in the nude for the first time, the Heart of the Ocean around her neck. She knew that the drawing was at the bottom of the Atlantic and would never be found or seen again. She watched Jack’s fingers brush against the paper, making the shadows that were needed, while his blue eyes looked her way more than once. As much as she knew that she had seen him look at her, she still felt shivers go up her spine, feeling her body quiver with pure love and nervousness. It was as if she had just met Jack and was trying to do everything she could so they could be together—even give up her rich high society life—and reliving being chased by Cal’s manservant and the moments that they had in the backseat of the Renault. And Rose knew that moments after Jack finished the drawing, they would make love. Meanwhile, Rose closed her eyes, feeling a smile come over her face, remaining still so Jack could sketch her for the second time.

Nearly two hours passed before Jack took a final look at Rose, putting the final touches on the portrait. He looked at the drawing, examining it, making sure that he hadn’t missed any details, and after he had done so, he went to the bottom right hand corner and scribbled his initials, along with the date. Smiling, he threw the charcoal pencil on the table beside him and sighed happily, looking at the drawing, a satisfied smile on his face. He blew the charcoal dust from the drawing and held it at arm’s length, nodding his head approvingly. He looked at Rose, who smiled at him. He watched as she slid off the bed and slipped on her robe. He sat up straighter when she had walked towards him, looking over his shoulder.

"Hmm…" Rose said, putting her hands on his shoulders. "You never fail to amaze me, Jack."

"Well, I try my best," Jack said, looking at her.

Rose smiled and pressed her lips firmly against his, bringing him into a powerful kiss. Moments later, she pulled away and gazed into his eyes.

Jack set the portfolio on the table beside him, getting up and holding Rose close. He leaned in and kissed her forehead lovingly, making a trail down her cheeks and onto her neck, hearing Rose’s breathing become heavier, her fingers clutching his shirt. Jack’s lips brushed against her smooth porcelain skin. Jack went up towards her chin before he finally made contact with her lips, which welcomed his tongue lovingly, giving her a passionate kiss, which grew in intensity and love. Their kiss was broken when they heard a sudden knock on the door, causing both to look at the bedroom door. Jack smiled and looked at her, kissing her forehead once more.

"I’ll get it," Jack said, leaving Rose in the bedroom and making his way through the parlor and towards the apartment door, which he pulled open, greeting Annie, who held a wrapped gift in her hand.

"Hello, Jack." Annie smiled. "Is Rose home?"

"Of course she is," Jack said. "She’s in the bedroom. Hold on a second. I’ll get her…come on in." Jack moved back, allowing Annie to step in, closing the door, and stepping into his bedroom, where he saw Rose slipping on a dress that was purple in color with a velvety texture. He smiled, leaning against the doorframe. "Annie’s here…"

Rose looked at him and smiled. "I’ll be there in a minute," Rose said.

Jack set his chin on her shoulder. "My love, you seem to grow more beautiful every day that passes."

Rose smiled and looked at herself. "How can you possibly find me attractive?" Rose asked. "I’m the size of a watermelon!"

"Well, you’re a very beautiful watermelon," Jack added.

Rose laughed, turning to face him. "Well, at least I’m married to a man who isn’t picky about looks," Rose said, looking at him.

"Looks aren’t everything," Jack said. "It’s what’s inside that counts. And I love you for who you are, not for what you look like."

"As do I," Rose said, smiling. "And my love for you will never die, for it is stronger than anything in the world, and nothing will ever break it. I love you, Jack. Forever and for always."

Jack smiled and kissed her with all his passion and love. "I love you, too," Jack said. "Now, go on…don’t keep Annie waiting all day."

Rose smiled and headed towards the door. "I won’t, Jack," Rose said, opening the door. She took one final look before she went into the parlor, ready to greet her best friend. "Hello, Annie!" Rose went to her to give her a friendly hug. "How have you been?"

"I’ve been fine," Annie said. "How about you? How’s the baby?"

"It’s fine," Rose said, stroking her abdomen. "One more month left until it gets out of me."

"Oh, be patient," Annie said. "I heard that once they come out, they don’t ever stop growing."

Rose laughed and nodded. "I heard that, too, but I’m starting to miss my old self," Rose said. "I sort of miss my feet, as well! I haven’t seen them for months!"

Annie laughed. "Happy eighteenth birthday, Rose," Annie said, handing her the wrapped gift.

"Aw…you shouldn’t have," Rose said, accepting the gift.

"I know," Annie said. "But I wanted to. Seeing that you need it and all."

Rose looked at her and smiled, heading towards the couch and sitting down alongside Annie. Rose looked at the wrapped gift and began ripping the paper off, revealing a white box. Removing the lid, she gasped, lifting baby clothes from the box. A smile crossed her face, looking at Annie.

"Oh, Annie," Rose said, admiring the clothes. "They’re beautiful. Thank you so much…"

"Not a problem," Annie said. "Like I said, I know you are going to need them."

Rose smiled and pulled Annie into a tight, friendly hug. "You’re such a great friend to have, Annie," Rose said, looking at the clothes. "And it would be my pleasure—as well as Jack’s—to have you as the godmother of our child."

Annie’s smile grew, her face brightening. "I would be honored, Rose," Annie said. "Nothing would mean more to me than to be the godmother of your child."

Rose smiled and embraced her. "I’m glad," Rose said. Rose sat back and looked at her bedroom door. "I wonder what Jack is doing in there…hold on." Rose got up and waddled to the door, which she opened quietly before entering the room. "Jack?" Rose saw that the room was empty. She also saw that the bed was made and the clothes had been put away. She smiled, closing the door behind her. "Jack, are you in here?" Rose walked over to the door that would lead her to the bathroom. She knocked on the door gently before she heard a response.

"Come in!" Jack’s voice called. She heard sounds of movement and splattering water.

Rose pushed open the door and watched Jack clean the bathroom. Rose suppressed a giggle, watching him on his hands and knees, scrubbing the floor with a big yellow scrub brush. He looked at her, his hair falling in his face.

"My, Jack," Rose said, nodding her head. "I’m impressed. But you don’t have to do all this. I’m the wife here, aren’t I?"

"Yes," Jack said. "You are, but you’re pregnant, for one, and two, I’m not just gonna let you do all the work. I’m not the type of husband who will sit and watch his wife cook and clean for him. No, I can’t let you do that. I’m married to you because I love you, not because I want someone to clean for me. Besides, I like cleaning."

"You really are one of a kind, Jack," Rose pointed out. "You know, not a lot of men would do what you’re doing, but I also know that not a lot of men would ever make me feel as if I were the only woman in the world. That’s what I love most about you, Jack. You treat me as a woman should be treated—not disrespectfully or possessively—but with the love, respect, and kindness that would make a woman want to kneel down to you and treat you as if you were a god."

Jack chuckled, looking at her from his position. "Well, as my mom used to say—if you want to marry a girl, you have to treat her with respect, love her, care for her, and help her. Don’t just sit and watch her do all the work. Make her love you more by helping her with the chores. Then you’ll be treated the same way in return—and I have to admit, good thing I followed my mother’s advice. For if I hadn’t, you wouldn’t be married to me right now."

"Your mother must’ve been a smart woman," Rose said. "I know I would’ve loved to have met her."

"You would have," Jack said, a longing look in his eyes. "And she would’ve loved you. Also, she would’ve been thrilled that she was becoming a grandmother. She always loved children."

"The same with my father," Rose said, her eyes suddenly filling with tears. "He passed away exactly two years ago. He died of leukemia, and he’d promised me that he would walk me down the aisle, but he couldn’t, and…I wish he had lived…I wish he hadn’t gotten the cancer, and that he had lived to watch me marry and have children, and—"

Jack got up and went towards her, embracing her with arms that touched her body with love and care. "Shh," Jack said, soothing her by rubbing her back lovingly. "He’s not fully gone from you, Rose. He’s in your heart. He’s watching over you, just as my parents are watching over me."

Rose buried her face in his chest, letting the tears flow. "But I miss him, Jack…I miss him. He always did something to make me feel loved. He would take me horseback riding and we would go to the lake and sit and talk. He would read me stories and make me laugh—something my mother never did—and he made my spirit feel alive!" Rose cried. She sniffed, wiping some of the tears away. "He was the first man, before you, who made me feel free and loved. Who made me feel as if I were worthwhile and important. I just wish he were alive today so he could meet you. He would’ve loved you as if you were his own son. I know it. I can imagine him smiling and taking you in his arms and saying how glad he is that I found you. But he’s gone. Gone forever, never to be seen again, and…"

"Rose," Jack said calmly, taking Rose in his arms. "You must understand that your father will never leave you. If he loved you that much, and you loved him in return, he is in your heart, guiding you through life. Also, he’s watching over you, proud that you have found a suitable husband, who loves our child. Rose, I know I would’ve been glad to have met your father, but there is nothing we can do at this point."

"I wish there was!" Rose cried. "I just wish there was, Jack…"

"I know," Jack whispered. "But we can’t just keep on wishing all our lives, now, can we?" Jack’s smile was sincere and gentle. "It’s your birthday, and it’s Christmas Eve. You should be happy—not miserable. Rose, I understand your father died of leukemia, and I understand that you miss him, but remember what I have told you. Make each day count. You have got to move on, Rose. You can’t live all your life mourning over your father. I’m sure he wouldn’t want that, just as I wouldn’t have wanted that if I hadn’t lived."

A warm tear fell down her cheek as she looked at him. She realized that Jack was right. She should move on, and not just mourn over her father. She knew he would always be with her, and that he was watching over her at the moment, and was probably proud of her for having found a husband like Jack and conceived his child. Her fingers brushed against Jack’s rough shirt as she sniffed and nodded her head. Rose felt the tearstains that were on her cheeks as she brushed her tears away with her fingers.

"You’re right," Rose said. "I should move on. Live my life to the fullest, and make each day count."

"That’s right," Jack said, stroking her cheek with his thumb. "And just keep that in mind. Make sure you don’t forget it."

"I won’t," Rose said, forcing a smile.

Jack could sense that Rose wanted to be alone, so he kissed her forehead and gripped her shoulders lovingly. "I’ll leave you alone now," Jack said. "To mend to your thoughts and let your feelings out. Just make sure that you don’t overdo it. You have to remember that there’s a baby in you, and anything can damage a baby at this point."

"I understand, Jack," Rose said. "Annie’s in the parlor waiting for me. Tell her I’m taking a nap or something. I really do need some time alone."

"All right," Jack said. "I’ll be in the parlor if you need me."

Rose nodded her head and watched as Jack left the bathroom, heading towards the parlor. Once Jack had left, Rose went back into the bedroom, sitting on the bed and letting the tears flow down her cheeks. She looked at the ceiling, intertwining her fingers, her body shaking with her sobs.

"Oh, Daddy!" Rose cried. "Why did you have to die? Why did you have to leave me like this? I wanted you there for me. You promised me that you would walk me down the aisle…and you didn’t. You didn’t even get the chance to meet Jack. Why? Why? Why?" Rose pressed her cheek against the pillow, letting her tears flow. She wished her father had been there for her when she married Jack, and now, she wished that he would be there for her when she gave birth to her first child. But he wasn’t, and he never would be. Or so she thought.

As she cried into her pillow, she slowly began to drift onto dreamland, where her sobs subsided and she dreamt of someone she had thought she would never see again.

*****

Rose was standing in the middle of an all white room. It had a cloudy appearance, and there was soft music. Rose turned her head, perplexed, wondering where she was and where Jack could be.

"Jack?" Rose called, her voice shaky. "Jack, where are you?"

"Jack is fine, Rosie," she heard a familiar voice say.

Rose stood there, her eyes wide and filling with tears. Could that really be him? Could that really be her father? She stroked her stomach, as if protecting her child from this person who had the same exact voice as her father. Slowly, Rose turned around, never expecting the person she saw. She gasped, her eyes widening. Her mouth opened, then closed, as if she wanted to say something, and her hands rested on her abdomen, not moving. Rose felt a single tear slide down her cheek, staring right into her father’s eyes. Something she had never expected to do, ever again. She watched as he began walking closer to her, smiling.

"D-daddy?" Rose cried, her voice hoarse and shocked. "I-is that you?"

"Yes, Rosie, it’s me," William said, stroking her cheek gently.

Rose’s tears overflowed as she began to cry again. She felt her heart beat nervously, her breath shaking.

"Shh," William said, circling his arms around his daughter and bringing her close. "Everything is all right, my flower. Everything will be all right."

"How?" Rose asked, looking at her father. He still had the same brown hair that he had had when he had been taken away from her. The same warm blue eyes and the same smile. It was as if he had never left her in the way he had. It was as though he was really alive. Alive and by her side to protect her. "How am I seeing you? How am I…?"

"You’re really sleeping, my dear," William said. "But I’m here to set things straight. I did not plan to leave you in the way I did. You think I actually wanted to die? I wanted to be by your side always. But that was not meant to be."

"I know, but I wish you had been there when…" Rose began.

"I was," William said. "I was there when you married Jack. And you don’t know how happy I was to see you actually marry the man you love instead of that possessive fellow, Caledon Hockley."

"You know everything?" Rose asked, as though she didn’t know that he had been watching over her. "Even…"

"Yes," William said. "I saw everything. Even the Titanic tragedy. And, my dear, you don’t know how happy I was to know you lived. And how happy I was that Jack survived. He was so close to joining me here…"

"You mean this is…" Rose said, looking around the room, then back at her father.

"Yes, this is heaven," William said. "And someday, you’re going to be here, too. Only when your time comes."

"But Mother…she—" Rose began.

"I know she has met Benjamin, and I’m sure that he will make a perfect husband for her," William said. "She has a right to move on, you know. She cannot stay widowed for the rest of her life. If she feels that she loves him, and I know he loves her, then they are meant to be. Just as your mother and I were. But no matter what, Rosie, I will be watching over you and your mother. As I have for the past two years. I’ll even watch over that little one inside you and your husband, who I know you love with all your heart."

A smile suddenly crossed her face. "I do, Daddy," Rose said, nodding her head slightly. "I love him with everything that I have. I don’t know what I’d do without him in my life."

"But I know that if he wasn’t by your side, you would move on and keep your promise," William said, then smiled. "Just as you have kept mine."

"I know I would have," Rose said. "But I also know that if it weren’t for Jack, I would never have been able to keep your promise. I would’ve married to Cal, possibly bearing his child, as he hopes to have a son for an heir."

"And you know he has changed," William said. "He really has."

"Yes, I know," Rose said, bowing her head.

William lifted her chin with his finger. "Remember to always be happy, and as Jack says, make each day count. Don’t let him down because you’re mourning over me. He’s worried about you. I’m sensing it right now. He’s worried for you and your unborn son."

Rose smiled, tears shimmering in her eyes. "I’m having a son?" Rose asked, stroking her belly lovingly.

"Yes, Rosie," William said. "Your first child is a boy. And I’m sure he’ll grow to be quite a handsome one, at that."

Rose giggled, feeling a tear slide down her porcelain cheek. "And I shall name him after the man who made me feel loved throughout my childhood years. I shall name him after you, Daddy. And I promise you that I will," Rose said, smiling.

"And I will be honored," William said. He suddenly looked up, a sweet, small smile crossing his handsome face. "Well, Rosie, I’d better go. Jack is about to go in and wake you, and you must awaken, for your mother is in the parlor waiting for you. Happy birthday, my sweet flower. And many more to come after this."

"Don’t go, Daddy. Please," Rose said, tears beginning to fall down her cheeks. "Stay with me…"

"I can’t do that, my dear," William said. "But what I can do is continue to watch over you. To watch you live your life to the fullest with the man you love, and with that child of yours, and lots more after him."

Rose wrapped her arms around her father’s neck and held him close. "I love you, Daddy…I always have," Rose said, her wet cheeks pressed against her father’s. "And I always will."

"As do I, my Rosie," William said. "I will always love you and your mother. And within a month, I’ll grow to love my grandson. Take good care of him, Rose."

"I will, Daddy," Rose said, crying. "I’ll take good care of him. I promise."

"Good," William said. "Good-bye, my flower."

"Good-bye, Daddy," Rose said, her vision blurred by tears.

"Farewell, my darling," William said. "Remember, I’ll be watching over you throughout the years."

"I’ll remember, Daddy," Rose said. "Good-bye…I love you."

William nodded and smiled. He began to get farther and farther away. Rose looked at him, reaching out to him, but by then, he had disappeared and she was brought back to her world. She felt herself tossing and turning, feeling a pair of strong but gentle arms grip her shoulders lovingly. Jack’s soft voice called to her.

*****

"Rose…" Jack said, trying to wake his wife up. "Rose, wake up. Rose!"

Rose’s eyes suddenly fluttered open, gazing into Jack’s eyes. She sat up straight, Jack sitting beside her. She was shaking and her breathing was irregular. Rose brought a hand to her face and felt that she had been crying. Had it been real? Had she actually been talking to her father? Rose looked at Jack and tried to smile, but couldn’t.

"Are you okay, Rose?" Jack asked, worried. "You were screaming out Daddy and you were crying."

"I was?" Rose asked, looking into his worried eyes. Had she really screamed out while she was asleep? Maybe it had been real. Maybe she had gone to see her father and talked to him. "Well, I’m fine now. Really."

"Are you sure?" Jack asked, holding her hand in his. "I’m worried about you."

"Jack, I’m fine," Rose said, smiling reassuringly. "I was just…well…I just had a pleasant moment with my father."

"You mean you talked to him?" Jack asked.

"You could say that," Rose said. "But he has been watching over me. Just as you said he was."

Jack smiled. "See? I don’t lie. I definitely wouldn’t lie to you."

Rose smiled and embraced him. "I love you, Jack. You’re everything I’ve ever wanted," Rose said. "I’m glad to have you as my husband."

"And I’m glad to have you as my wife," Jack said, pulling away. "Your mother is in the parlor. She wants to wish you a happy birthday. Now, I suggest that you wash your face and be happy. Today is your birthday. You deserve to be happy today. Not depressed. Besides, I wanna see that smile that I love so much."

Rose smiled and nodded her head. "I promise to be happy, Jack," Rose said.

"That’s my girl," Jack said, smiling and pressing his lips to her forehead. "I’ll tell your mother that you’ll be out in a minute."

"All right," Rose said, smiling. She watched as Jack smiled back and left the bedroom, closing the door behind him. Rose sighed and looked up at the ceiling. "Thank you, Daddy. Thank you for everything."

With that said, Rose got out of bed and went into the bathroom, going towards the sink and washing her face with cool water. Once she had, she took a towel and dried her face, glancing at her reflection in the mirror. Rose smiled and saw that her eyes glowed. Moments later, Rose left the bathroom and walked down the hall and into the parlor, seeing the room filled with people she knew. There were her mother, Benjamin, Lucy, Jason, Michael, Annie, Jimmy, and Patricia. Jack smiled at her, going towards her and putting an arm around her shoulders.

"This is your birthday party, Rose," Jack said. "I had it all planned to make today a special day. Since it’s Christmas Eve and your eighteenth birthday, I plan to take you out to dinner tonight. But for now, you’ll spend your birthday with us and have a good time. How does that sound?" Jack looked at Rose and smiled.

"Perfect," Rose said, smiling and cuddling in his arms, feeling safe and loved all over again.

"C’mon, then," Jack said, leading her to the couch. "You still have presents to open, you know."

Rose laughed and sat down beside him as a gift was handed to her. She looked up, seeing that it was from her mother. Rose took it and set it on the floor. Rose began unwrapping the gift, and smiled when she saw that there was a bassinette inside the box. Rose smiled, looking at her mother.

"Mother, this is beautiful," Rose said, letting her fingers go over the soft fabric in the bassinette. "I love it. Thank you so much."

Ruth smiled and went over to her daughter to give her a hug. "Anything for my daughter," Ruth said. "Besides, I know my grandchild will need it."

Rose smiled and kissed her mother’s cheek. She saw Jack take the bassinette and put it in their room. Next, Patricia handed her a gift. It was rectangular and big. Rose took it and began unwrapping the gift, and removing the lid, she found that there were another set of baby clothes for her unborn child. She lifted one garment out of the box, smiling.

"Patricia, they’re adorable. Thank you," Rose said.

"You’re welcome," Patricia said, giving her a hug. "Your baby is going to need them."

Rose smiled and looked at the clothes. "I’m sure he will," Rose said. She looked up, finding that everyone was looking at her, smiling.

"How do you know it’s going to be a boy, Rose?" Ruth asked, looking at her daughter.

Rose shrugged and smiled. "I just have a feeling that I will have a son," Rose said. She looked at Jack, who was smiling at her. Rose smiled back and leaned on his shoulder lovingly.

For the next hour, Rose opened her gifts, which all were something for the baby. Rose loved them all and thanked everyone profusely. The room was filled with wrapping paper and boxes, and Jack decided to help Rose clean. He told her to stay put and relax while he cleaned up. He didn’t want her to do any work at all for the day, or for the next month. He wanted her to relax and enjoy her birthday. Rose’s mother was bringing in the cake that she had baked, and let Rose blow out the candles after she made a wish. Her wish was to become a good mother and for Jack to stay by her side always. There was nothing else she could ask for. After Rose cut the first slice for good luck, she let her mother cut the rest of the cake, serving everyone else their slices. Rose wanted a small piece, for she didn’t want to eat that much sugar, and watched as everyone else devoured the delicious vanilla-frosted cake. Rose, however, took small bites of the cake, while Jack, who sat beside her, watched her eat. His slice was bigger than most, for he loved cake and he enjoyed eating it. Rose just didn’t have the appetite to eat a big slice of cake, so her slice was smaller than the guests’. After awhile, Rose set her plate down on the coffee table, telling Jack that she wasn’t hungry and wanted to save some room for dinner tonight, as Jack had mentioned that he would take her out. Jack nodded his head and continued to eat his own cake. Rose, however, got up and went towards the front closet, pulling out a coat and slipping it on.

"Where are you going?" Jack asked, getting up and putting his plate beside hers.

"I’m going over to the church," Rose said, putting on her hat and scarf. "To say a prayer for my father." She slipped on her gloves, getting ready to leave.

"I’ll go with you," Jack said, heading towards the closet and taking his coat out.

"You don’t have to," Rose said. "I’m sure I’ll be fine on my own."

"No," Jack said, shaking his head. "You’re in a delicate condition, and I don’t want anything to happen to you. It’s quite icy out there, and I want to make sure you’re safe."

Rose smiled. "All right. If you say so," Rose said, watching Jack walk towards her mother, who was nodding her head. In moments, Jack was by her side, opening the door.

"Ruth will keep watch over the party while we’re out," Jack said, letting Rose go ahead of him.

"All right," Rose said, letting Jack put his hand on her waist as they went towards the staircase. Rose gripped the banister, carefully making her way down the stairs alongside Jack. Her stomach was making it difficult for her to watch where she was going, and a part of her was glad that Jack was there to hold her. Once they reached the bottom step, they headed towards the front entrance, where Jack opened the door, greeting the chilly air. Rose looked up, finding that it was snowing. A snowflake landed on her eyelashes, and she smiled.

"You cold?" Jack asked, rubbing her arms.

"Not that cold," Rose said. "I’m fine, Jack. Quit worrying."

"How can I?" Jack asked, walking down the steps. "You’re my wife, and I’m your husband. It’s my job to worry about you."

"I know, but you worry more than you should," Rose said.

"Well, what can I do?" Jack asked. "You’re pregnant, and I don’t want anything bad happening to you. Besides, I love you too much to let you go out on your own."

"Maybe that’s why I’m lucky to have you," Rose said, looking at him. "And I’m glad I do."

Jack smiled. "Me, too," Jack said.

The two walked up the block and towards the same church that they had married in. The church was three blocks away from their apartment, so it wasn’t a long walk. Once they reached the church, Jack opened the doors and they both stepped in, removing their gloves and stamping the snow from their shoes. They entered the church doors and found that there were several people. Rose went towards the candles, which were at the side of the church, and took out a penny, which she had slid into the slot, lighting a candle. She closed her eyes and said a silent prayer for her father. She opened her eyes and looked at Jack.

"That’s it?" Jack asked.

"That’s it," Rose said. "Why don’t you light two candles for your parents?"

Jack smiled. "Maybe I should," Jack said, slipping his hand into his pocket and taking out two pennies, which he slipped into the slot, and lit two candles. He did the same as Rose. He made silent prayers for his parents and opened his eyes. "You would’ve loved her, Mom. And Dad, I know you would’ve seen her as your own daughter. Too bad you never got the chance to meet her in person, but I know you’re watching over us. I love you both, and hope that someday we’ll get a chance to see you. Up in heaven." His smile was soft and gentle. He looked at Rose and slipped his hand into hers. "Let’s go. I’m sure we can head over to Fabri’s restaurant for a bit and say hi."

"I’d love to," Rose said, smiling and following him towards the front entrance of the church. They exited, walked another block up, and turned a corner, stopping in front of an Italian restaurant.

"Here we are," Jack said, pulling open the door. They were greeted by the sound of people talking.

Jack and Rose stepped in and looked around the restaurant, seeing many of the customers eating their breakfasts. Jack led Rose towards the front counter of the restaurant and put his hand on top of the counter. He whistled to Fabrizio and smiled when he saw him. Fabrizio walked towards him, wearing an apron.

"Buon giorno, Jack," Fabrizio greeted. "Felice Natale vigilia!"

Jack chuckled. "Happy Christmas Eve, Fabri," Jack said. "You know, today is Rose’s eighteenth birthday."

"Che?" Fabrizio said, looking at Rose. "La bella Rosa? Buon Compleanno, Rosa." Fabrizio smiled warmly at Rose. "Diciotto, tu dire? Well, this ‘a calls for a celebrazione!"

Jack chuckled and shook his head. "No, Fabri, you don’t have to…"

"No?" Fabrizio asked, looking at Jack. "What ‘a kind of ‘a husband are you? We have to celebrate la bella Rosa’s compleanno. C´è la sua diciottesimo compleanno. Noi bisogno a la sua diciottesimo compleanno. It’s ‘a her special day, Jack."

"All right, Fabri," Jack said. "If you say so."

"Of course I ‘a say so," Fabrizio said. "She deserves the best, Jack."

"She definitely does, Fabri," Jack said, looking at her. "And I’ll pay for everything."

"No, no," Fabrizio said, shaking his head. "It’s on the house…"

"Fabrizio, you don’t have to do this, you know," Rose added. "I don’t want you to get into trouble."

"I won’t ‘a get in trouble," Fabrizio said. "My boss ‘a loves you guys, and he once told me that if there is ‘a anything special, let them have their celebration. And your birthday is special. Now, go to table over there and sit so I can serve you your perfect meal."

"All right," Jack said, leading Rose towards a table for two that was beside a window. Jack pulled out Rose’s chair and watched as she sat down. He helped her remove her coat, hanging it on the chair behind her as he walked towards the opposite side of the table, taking his coat off as well and hanging it on the chair before he sat down. Jack smiled, reached for Rose’s hand, and stroked her smooth skin. "So, how’s your day so far?"

"Wonderful," Rose said, smiling. "Especially since you’re here by my side."

Jack smiled and kissed her hand. "I wouldn’t miss this day for the world." Jack’s smile grew as his eyes shone. "Happy birthday, Rose."

"Thank you," Rose said, smiling back. "You made this day worthwhile for me."

"I didn’t do anything, Rose," Jack said. "You have done everything. You married me. And that means more to me than anything in this world."

Rose smiled and held onto Jack’s hand, gazing into his eyes.

"Good morning, and here is the meal that Fabrizio prepared for you," the waitress said, setting two platefuls of scrambled eggs, toast, and bacon in front of Jack and Rose. "Oh, and he also has a special cake prepared for la bella Rosa, as he calls her, and it’s all on the house."

"Thank you," Jack said, nodding his head.

"You’re welcome," she said, smiling, then heading over to another customer.

"This looks delicious," Rose said. "My second breakfast of the day. How exciting."

Jack chuckled. "At least you’re feeding that little one inside you as well as yourself," Jack said, beginning to eat his meal. "Besides, I don’t blame Fabri for caring for you the way he does."

Rose smiled. "I don’t, either," Rose said, beginning to eat as well. "And I have to admit, he’s an amazing cook."

Jack chuckled and nodded. "I have to agree," Jack said. "Fabri always said something about wanting to become a cook and own a restaurant. Well, so far, he’s achieved part of that goal, since he’s a cook, but I’m sure that in time he will own his very own restaurant."

"I’m sure he will," Rose said. "He’ll make an excellent restaurant manager."

Rose looked at the cooked food and was delighted to have Fabrizio as a friend. She knew how much Fabrizio meant to Jack. He was like the brother that Jack never had, and she knew that they were very close. Rose remembered the days when Jack had thought he had died, and he had been devastated, hurt, and most of all, heartbroken. But now that he had found that he had lived, he was overjoyed. He was also glad that Fabrizio had found someone to love. And hopefully, someday, they would marry and have children of their own. Rose took a bite of the bacon and smiled, satisfied. She looked at the waitress with the dark brown hair and smiled, realizing that it was Angelina—Fabrizio’s girlfriend. She had the Italian accent, but knew good English. Fabrizio knew some English, but not a lot. He was still learning, and was progressing, getting to know English better than he had before. Sometimes, he could say a sentence in English without using any Italian. But Rose loved his Italian accent and loved it when he smiled. It brightened his face and made him seem friendlier than he already was. Rose was so caught up in her thoughts that she didn’t hear Fabrizio walking towards her, holding a cake.

"Buon compleanno a tu, buon compleanno a tu, buon compleanno a bella Rosa, buon compleanno a tu," Fabrizio sang, smiling. "Happy birthday, Rosa…it’s ‘a from me to you, capisce?"

"Capisce," Rose repeated, smiling. "Thank you, Fabrizio. You don’t know how much this means to me."

"No problem," Fabrizio said. "Anything for my best friend’s wife…"

Rose smiled, looking at him. "You’re such a great friend, Fabrizio. I’m glad to have met you," Rose said, getting up and giving Fabrizio a hug after he put the cake on the table.

"Me, too, la bella Rosa," Fabrizio said, hugging her back. "Oh, I got gift for you, back in my apartment. I bought it long time ago, meant for someone else, but since it is your birthday, I figure you could have it instead."

"Oh, no, Fabrizio, you don’t need to--" Rose began.

"I know I don’t need to, but I want to," Fabrizio said. "You are so good to me, and I feel that I should give you something in return. I say, Jack’s friend is always my friend, too. And you are my second good friend. And I’m glad to have you with me as a friend."

"As am I, Fabrizio," Rose said.

"All my friend call me Fabri, so you are my friend," Fabrizio said. "Call me Fabri instead. Make your life easier and make me know that you are my friend, too."

Rose smiled. "All right, Fabri," Rose said. "As long as it will make you happy."

"It will," Fabrizio said. "Now, why don’t you blow out the candles and make a wish. Maybe it will come true."

Rose smiled. "I get two wishes in one day," Rose began. "But I’d be delighted to."

Rose closed her eyes and smiled, making a wish. I wish that Fabri would marry Angelina and live a happy life with her. Rose opened her eyes and blew out the candles in one breath, which meant that her wish would come true. Rose took the knife and made the first cut for good luck, then let Fabrizio do the rest. She smiled at him and hoped that he would marry his girlfriend and have many children with her. She knew that he was happy with Angelina and she knew that they loved each other. Hopefully, someday, in due time, they would marry.

"Happy birthday, again, and hope your wishes come true," Fabrizio said after serving Jack and Rose their slices of cake. "Would you mind if I give slice of cake to other customers?"

"Not at all," Rose said. "Give them as much as they want."

"Grazie," Fabrizio said. He smiled and nodded his head at her. "You are a kind person."

"And so are you," Rose said, smiling. She watched as Fabrizio went towards a customer to see if they wanted some cake. Rose turned to Jack, finding that he was looking at her, love shining in his eyes.

"That was nice of you," Jack said. "Giving a slice of cake to everyone."

"Well, what else am I supposed to do with it? I don’t want to eat all of it myself. And surely there’s enough for everyone, so I might as well give. It’s better to give than to receive," Rose said. "That’s what my father always told me."

"He must’ve been a smart man," Jack said, finishing his breakfast before moving on to the cake.

"He was," Rose said. "And I know he would’ve loved to have you in the family. He would’ve accepted you the minute he met you. I’m sure of that."

Jack smiled. "Well, I’m sure that I would’ve looked up to him as if he were my own father," Jack said. "But always remember that—"

"—he’s always watching over me," Rose said, smiling. "I know, Jack. I know he is."

"That’s right," Jack said. "Just as my mother and father are. They’ll always be in my heart, just as your father will be in yours."

"Well, let’s just enjoy this day, and as you say, make each day count," Rose said, her smile as bright as the sun.

"That’s the Rose I’m married to," Jack said, smiling. "And we’ll make each day count. I’m sure of it."

Rose smiled and looked at her cake, munching on it. From then on, Rose knew her life would be as perfect as it was at the moment. She knew her father was watching over her right now, and she looked up, smiling.

Thank you, Daddy. I love you, and someday, we will meet again. Then I can properly introduce to you my husband. But as of now, I’m going to make each day count. Just as my husband has always told me. And I will keep my promise to both him and you. Thank you for watching over me, and I hope you continue to do so. Good-bye…Rose smiled, looking outside and seeing that the snow had stopped and the sun was shining. Rose knew that her father understood and was sending his love to her. Rose looked at Jack and smiled, continuing to eat her cake. This was one of the best birthdays that she had ever had. And she knew there were many more to come as the years progressed in her life. For now, she’d make each day count with the man she loved and their unborn child. Hopefully, they would head out for the horizon, just as Rose had always wished. Rose knew her life would change the minute her child was born.

Chapter Forty-Four
Stories