"You don't have to get up yet, love..." Colin stood in the doorway of the bathroom, a black towel wrapped around his waist. He toweled his hair dry with another dark towel as he spoke. With a groan, Michelle rolled out of bed, dragging her feet as she picked up her bath robe of it's hook and staggered towards the bathroom. Rubbing her sleep-filled eyes, Michelle approached him.

Yawning, she wrapped her arms around him and buried her face in his chest. "You know I have to..."

"You could have slept a bit longer, 'Chelle. You're going to be worn out by the end of the day." Colin kissed her on the top of the head as he squeezed her gently.

"I've worked with less sleep, trust me, Colin." She kissed his bare chest before pulling away and shuffling into the bathroom. "And with all of you boys heading into town alone, I'm going to be needed. Now let me have a shower... I'm useless without one." Colin watched as her bathrobe fell to the floor, followed by her pajamas, and Michelle stepped behind the shower curtain.

Sighing, he scrubbed his hair dry again before tossing the damp towel into the laundry basket behind the door. He knew Michelle was right, that she was needed this morning. Several of the guys were delivering baskets and boxes outside the CrowesNest this morning. And while it was a short trip, they were still going to need Michelle's guidance to direct them through the deliveries quickly, so they could make it back to the Nest unharmed. While such a trip would have been quite simple on any normal day, the fact that there was seven brothers heading out this morning, made things a bit more difficult. She had done this sort of thing before, with road trips and the like, but the experience always exhausted her. She had described it as being tugged in several directions, depending on the number of guys involved. It required a huge amount of concentration on her part and after it was all over she usually ended up falling into a much needed sleep.

He knew that everything would run smoothly, but he was wishing now that he hadn't volunteered to go out this morning, wanting instead to sit with her, to watch her as she guided them into the real world and to be with her as she fell into an exhausted sleep. Colin shook himself out of his melancholy thoughts. Get over it, mate... she'll be in good hands. Lachlan and Brynn had agreed to spend the morning with her. He heard the shower turn off and he stepped forward to offer Michelle a clean towel.

"Better now?" He grinned at her as she wrapped the towel around her long wet hair, twisting it up onto the top of her head. She stuck out her tongue and giggled as he tugged her towards him, folding his arms around her damp body.

"Much..." Her lips claimed his and he found himself groaning.

"Dammit woman..." He whispered when she pulled away. "We're going to be very late if we keep this up..." Michelle smiled at him, a wicked look in her eyes as her fingers lingered at the top of the towel around his waist. Colin's breath quickened and then she suddenly turned him around, slapping him playfully on the ass before pushing him towards the door.

"Not now, lover boy... we've both got work to do."

She laughed outloud as he gave an exaggerated yelp and scurried into the bedroom. "You're going to pay for that, sheila," he shouted back to her.

"Oh no... please..." Michelle cried, her voice holding a panicked tone before she erupted into giggles.

"Laugh, dearest... go ahead and laugh!!" Colin chuckled, from the other room. And then after a few minutes she heard him again. "Now don't go anywhere, love. I've got to go back to the Tavern and grab a change of clothes. I'll be back in two ticks." Michelle heard the slam of the door and she sighed contentedly. She wrapped herself back into her bathrobe and stepped out into the bedroom, crossing to the far window which provided a perfect view of the road down to the Tavern.

A minute later, Colin appeared, his hands characteristically tucked into the pockets of his jeans as he hurried down the path. His step was light and he kicked at the snow on the ground; Michelle couldn't help but smile as she watched him. And then, as if sensing her, Colin stopped and turned, his gaze lifting to her window. His smile widened as he saw her there and he blew her a kiss before continuing on his way.

He drew the curtains closed again, sighing as he did. She had mentioned something to him before going to sleep about wanting to help them in distributing the donations in the town they were going to, but he couldn't wake her up now. It was obvious she was exhausted, and needed her rest. It was one of the main reasons he had wanted to see her visit the Nest for the holidays. True, the chief reason was to see him and spend time with all her new and old friends, but his beloved technician also needed a vacation. Tina had taken her primary break in April to go to England -- which was before learning of the Nest. Every few weeks, she managed to attach a few vacation or personal days to her regular off days, so as to extend her Nest visits. But most of the last seven months had been spent in lots of overtime, including working many of her scheduled off days. And as the senior and most experienced technician on her shift of four, she had become a certified trainer, which resulted in her having been assigned two trainees back to back without pause.

You need this break, sweetheart. John thought as he reached for his heavy barn jacket, a remnant of his life in Mystery. She was lucky to have managed to get this two weeks off, considering she'd already had her main vacation, but no one else was scheduled off on vacation, and her sergeant was a good man. He felt like she needed time off too, particularly considering how her personal life had gone since September. The Alaskan smiled at that thought. Thanks Sarge...from the bottom of my heart, he smiled, wishing he could tell the man that directly. John thought he'd like him if they met -- he had a great sense of humor, most of his employees liked him, and he earned the loyalty of his workers. Tina had even told John how her sergeant often called her "Sunny," having read one of the gift cards attached to a dozen white roses delivered to the office "from JB." The two still chuckled about that.

John quietly closed the bedroom door, after blowing a kiss back towards the bed. He noticed that she stirred, likely sensing the emotion he had sent her, but she then sighed -- and once more was asleep. Satisfied he had not awakened her, he moved into the sitting room.

"She okay, John?" young Johnny asked as he and Arthur quietly went about their duties.

"Uh...yeah; yeah, she's fine, thanks. I didn't want us to wake her up." He glanced at the clock on the wall, seeing that it was ten. "It's still early yet, and she's exhausted."

"Well, a lot of you had a late night," the young man continued.

Arthur softly said, "I heard everything went wonderfully, John."

"Yeah, having all those little extras will definitely add to the party tonight," Biebe said, smiling. His cheesecake had turned out even better than expected, and Tina's jam cakes and chocolate mousse had spectacular results. In the end, the two of them had licked the remaining batter from the bowls and off the spoons and whisks like a couple of kids. At one point, Tina had batter on her nose, and John had it in his beard, on his nose and his cheeks. They'd had a wonderful time along with the dozen others that had joined them in the Hotel kitchen. No one cleared out until almost five in the morning, and John had practically carried her up to her bedroom. More tired than she'd been willing to admit, she fell asleep almost the second her head hit the mattress. The sheriff had gently undressed her for the night, before he lay down beside her.

Now he was ready to join some of his 'brothers' in delivering the packages for the needy...but not before he had made sure that another of his gifts to Tina had been delivered as well. He turned about, smiling, as Arthur carried in the last of the order. When Tina did awake, she would find the suite filled with about five dozen, fragrant white roses in various arrangements.

"They...They're beautiful John," Arthur managed. "Tina will love them."

"I hope so...Okay guys, I think that's it. Thanks a lot."

"No problem, John," Arthur grinned.

"No problem at all, mate," young Johnny responded, looking about the beautiful suite and whistling softly in admiration. "Tinaís one lucky lady."

John smiled thoughtfully as he recalled the last seven months. "And I'm pretty freaking lucky myself, guys...Okay, let's go. Time's a-moving." His younger brothers moved out first, followed by the Alaskan, who paused briefly in the doorway, looking back towards the bedroom. He hit the wall switch to extinguish the lights, then eased out....

Colin held Michelle's hand the entire time they ate. Michelle would glance down from time to time and watch his thumb cross her skin as they made small talk. Finally, she pushed her finished plate aside and gave his hand a squeeze. Colin's eyes met hers and he smiled sheepishly, knowing that she was aware of his uneasiness.

"I'll be fine, Colin. It's only for two hours at the most. And Lachlan and Brynn will be with me the whole time."

"I know." Colin brought her hand to his lips and kissed each finger gently. Ever since her fall from the balcony, back in August and the whole fiasco that had resulted from it, Colin had been very protective of her. He wasn't overly protective, but he was always there to provide a bit of extra care and attention when it was needed. "That still doesn't me that I can't worry."

"Leave the worrying to the women... that's what we're good at, Colin." She gave him a reassuring smile. "You have yourself a wonderful time this morning. It's the first Christmas that all of you get to head out on this delivery. I mean, last year only John and Arthur ventured out, and it took them a while to recover, didn't it?"

Colin nodded, "Yes, and we have you to thank for making this possible." Michelle blushed and busied herself by looking at her watch.

"It's almost time, have you seen Lachlan yet?"

As if having heard his name, the young pilot appeared in the doorway, dressed in his sharp Australian uniform and flight jacket, his cap tucked neatly under his arm. He marched over to their booth, clicking his heels together and saluting them both as he reached their table.

"Lachlan Curry reporting for duty as requested." A huge grin crossed his face and he winked at Michelle as he plopped himself down beside her and lay an arm over her shoulder. "So what are we going to do today, love. While the cat's away the mice will play...." He waggled his eyebrows at her.

Michelle leaned in and wrapped her arms around Lachlan's neck. She winked at Colin and ran a finger over the pilot's chin. "What did you have in mind?"

"Nothing while I'm around!" Brynn appeared from behind, smacking Lachlan on the back of the head before she seated herself next to Colin. And both of the girls laughed as Lachlan's cheeks flushed a generous shade of red.

"You ready, Colin? John and the boys have the trucks loaded and ready." Cort's drawl interrupted their revelry and Colin nodded slowly from his seat. The gunfighter was dressed warmly, and he smacked his gloved hands together, smiling. "Time'sa wastin'... and we've got some smiles to deliver this mornin'." Brynn stood and Colin slid out of the booth. Michelle's eyes met his and she gave him a soft smile.

"Go on... I'll see you in two hours. I'm in good hands." She reached up and ruffled Lachlan's hair.

"So am I," Colin said as he leaned over and kissed her before excusing himself from the group.

"Thanks, Lachlan... I appreciate both of you being here." Colin patted the young pilot on the shoulder.

"No worries, mate. I know I'd want the same from you and Chelle if the circumstances were different."

Colin nodded and his gaze moved to the large sofa in the center of the room, where Michelle was sleeping peacefully under a light throw blanket. Brynn sat curled up in a nearby chair, quietly flipping through an old magazine. Seeing him at the door, she set the magazine aside and stood, coming to Lachlan's side and wrapped her arms around the pilot's waist.

"Everything went okay this morning, Colin?" Brynn rested her head on Lachlan's shoulder and smiled.

Colin pulled his eyes from the sleeping figure on the sofa and smiled back, "Yeah. It went perfectly. You'll have to go next year, Lach." His grin widened. "You should have seen some of their faces... the joy... I'll never forget it, mate."

"I'll be sure to get Peaches to sign me up." Lachlan clasp Brynn's hand in his. "We'll leave you two alone, we've got a few things to attend to before the service tonight."

"We'll see you there, you and Chelle?" Brynn asked as they headed out the door.

"Michelle wouldn't want us to miss it. Thanks again, you two."

Brynn and Lachlan closed the door behind them, leaving Colin alone in the room with Michelle. She stirred slightly, called out his name as she slept. He moved to her side, kneeling on the floor next to the sofa.

"I'm right here, love." He whispered, brushing her hair gently.

She stirred some more, turning her head towards him. "Everything okay?" She asked him after a moment.

"Fine, darlin'. Everything went perfectly, thanks to you."

Her eyes still closed, she sighed contentedly. "Good, I'm glad." And Colin leaned forward, resting his forehead against hers.

"How do you feel, Chelle?"

"Like I've walked about 70 miles. 10 miles for each of you guys." She gave a soft chuckle before she yawned. Smiling, Colin pulled the blanket up over her shoulder, tucking it around her chin.

"Rest, love... I'll be here when you wake up." He stood up slowly, reaching over to pull Brynn's chair closer to the sofa. He sat down, taking Michelle's hand in his and resting it gently on his thigh. She sighed again and her breathing quickly became even again, her chest rising and falling in a steady rhythm as she fell back to sleep.

"And this one's for..." Biebe was looking for a label, card, anything which would tell him what he needed to know.

"Uh... check under the... oh, the label's on the side. Yeah, there you go."

"Okay.... 'To: Dom. From: Tina and John - Merry Christmas'.... What did we get him?"

Tina looked up from the large gold bow she was removing from an opened bag. "Oh...I found it very reasonable at a sports card shop -- I figured he might like it. It's an autographed Jeff Gordon card."

"Hey, very thoughtful," the sheriff replied. "So it'll go...."

"In that pile there. I know the package is sort of big, but I didn't want it to get lost. Thanks."

It was around three-thirty, and the couple was relaxing inside Tina's suite. They were sitting beside their personal Christmas tree, and were attempting to sort the numerous shopping bags and packages containing all of their gifts. It had already been a busy morning and early afternoon for a lot of them after the previous evening. With young Johnny - accompanied by East - driving his truck with the donated hampers and boxes, and John, Arthur, Cort, Max, and Colin riding in Liz's rented SUV, the deliveries for the needy were made. Everyone had managed to break up into small groups so as to distribute the items more efficiently, as well as to not raise suspicions about these particular seven brothers. Within ninety minutes, one dozen of the Nest's adopted families were going to have a happier holiday. The guys were back home by one-thirty, and all went their separate ways, as preparations for the Christmas Eve festivities continued.

"I wish you could have been there, sweetheart," John had told Tina on joining her in the Hotel restaurant for a light lunch. "There was this one little boy about nine or ten...Sort of...." He paused, looking down at his turkey sandwich. "Well, he sort of reminded me of Michael."

"Oh John," Tina whispered, laying a hand over one of his as she saw how the moment must have affected him. No matter how much he might pretend, she knew he would always miss his children.

"It wasn't that he looked exactly like Mike... it was just something about his eyes... his smile, the excitement on his face when I handed him his gift. You couldn't buy a moment like that anywhere."

He had spoken more about the distributions, then they retired to her suite to organize their own Christmas giving. The Alaskan - beforehand - had brought over his own many presents, and the couple began the categorization while trying to have fun at the same time. John had teased her about buying out several department stores. Tina laughingly retorted with "No... just blew out a couple of hard drives doing cyber-shopping. I didn't have much time to shop the old-fashioned way." And so it went for the next hour. Many of the packages would go to the main tree located at the Tavern, to be part of the big Nest Christmas morning gift opening for the guests, residents and employees. A few, however, would remain in Tina's room to go under her private tree. There would be the gifts she and John were exchanging with one another, and there would be some for their closest friends, both as individuals and as couples: Laura and Maximus; Michelle and Colin among others. They loved everyone of course, but there were a few they had shared something particularly special with, or felt very close to for whatever reason.

Biebe grinned as he lifted one heavy, rectangular shaped box. "Who the hell is this for? It must weigh a ton. Hmm... East and Kath, eh?"

"What did we...." She paused, glancing at her notebook that contained her lists. Scanning down the page, then a second, she tapped the sheet with a fingertip. "Oh yeah... here we go." She pointed so that the sheriff could see. "I think we were together when we...."

"We were - I remember now. Okay... for under your tree?" Tina nodded. "This... is... for Kel. This is Kel's." His eyebrows raised. "Did you get her something on the odd side?"

Tina started laughing. "Odd?"

"Well, you know how weird she is sometimes."

"Okay... she's not really conservative, but neither are we, Johnny Boy," the technician jokingly said. "I think she'll like what *we* got her."

John shrugged, appearing somewhat puzzled. "She's still a strange one."

"Eccentric."

"Okay, eccentric...Let's see...Jeff and Wendy -- I'm glad she finally made it. I was really starting to feel bad for Jeff." Tina nodded in agreement. "Trisha and-and Bud...Hey, Syrena and Hando?" He looked at her, beaming as he watched a flush creep onto her face as she nodded again. "You got something from Sy and Hando?"

"Well, Sy has a separate gift from me anyway, but I thought... I just thought... Well, they are a couple after all, and... they... do care for each other deeply, John. We've all been through so much this year and... hey, it's the holidays, right?"

Biebe's smile increased. "Right -- no question."

"I wouldn't have felt right leaving Hando out, especially... Well, not now, and hey, it's from both of us."

"Yeah I see that, darlin'... That was nice of you. I'm sure he'll never expect it."

"No...and that's what will make it even more special I think. Plus, it's something both he and Sy can enjoy. Like Sy's said in the past, there probably won't be a time when we'll double date the way we do with Laura and Max, and Chelle and Colin, or a few of the others...."

"True, but as you said... it's the holidays."

"The holidays. I just wish the two of them would stay around for all the festivities, but I understand them wanting to be alone this time. Hando's still so uncertain about things. Okay... okay. Oh, I know someone else who will be surprised when they get a gift from the two of us. Pick up the pine green box."

John did, then laughed hard. "Andy."

"I think he'll be surprised heís getting anything at all from us."

The sheriff nodded, remembering the trouble the young Aussie had brought on himself a few months back when the biggest problems to ever hit the Nest occurred. "He probably will be. He's still apologizing to me."

"Thatís sweet."

"Not when he does it once a day, darlin', and remember, *I* have to live with him!" John said, chuckling. "I keep telling him it's all over and done with, and that you and I are back together and all, but he insists...."

"Andy and Arthur need girlfriends," Tina said in a matter of fact way, placing NormaJean's separate gift on top of the joint gift to her and Mannie. "Both Michelle and I were just saying that the other day." John's head shot up at the words.

"What are you and Chelle plotting, darlin'?"

"*We* aren't plotting anything. We were just talking, that's all, and we said...Well, all of us are always saying how long they've been here and they haven't made the Connection yet. Same with Jack, and Dom, and Johnny, and even..." she turned up her nose, "even that overbearing Kim. I just feel so bad for the ones who first came here."

"Darlin' don't worry about it." John readjusted a silver ribbon on a box addressed to Peaches and Cort. "When the time is right, theyíll find their companion. Look how long it took Mannie, Jeffrey, and East, and Colin and Bud. And poor Jeff...He wasn't sure he'd ever click with this place being full of female guests. He didn't have a clue Rick would come along."

"I know," she said softly, fingering the corner of a gift bag for Jeff M. and his friend. "I just hate to think of anyone being alone...especially at Christmastime." Her last words trailed as she put the bag aside, feeling Biebe's hand tenderly caress one of hers. "But some of you fellows were so lucky for the most part. I know Max drew a lot of us here, and... and he made the link with Laura, but him bringing me here gave me to you. And if it hadn't been for you...." She shook her head, the sense of emptiness she had known once upon t time briefly rushing over her. "If it hadn't been...."

"I know, Tina, I know," he reassured her, and changing places, moved to her side so as to ease an arm about her shoulders. "Hell, if it hadn't been for Max drawing you here, I'd be spending another Christmas pretty much alone. Then if we hadn't reconciled...." It was his turn to pause and pull her closer, nearly onto his lap, so that her head rested on his sweatered chest. He felt Tina's small fingers move upward, gently brushing his throat and beard before she kissed him. He tried to push aside the memories of Christmas a year before, when he had walked through most of it in a zombie-like state, missing his family and friends. A few things had brought him joy then, such as delivering the hampers to the needy; he had found solace in the arms of a couple of the ladies there he'd grown close to. He had been so empty though -- until Tina came into his life.

She eased away from his lips, playfully kissing the tip of his nose before she spoke. "I'll tell you what. Let's not think about the 'what ifs' anymore," she confessed, sighing. "Let's only think about us now, and how lucky we are, and that I want this to be the first of many Christmases together."

"I can do that," Biebe grinned. "Besides darlin', we've got a lot more gifts to sort. Like you said, looks like you bought out the Internet."

"I tried." She stretched, standing, and walked around the tree to look out the glass balcony doors. As soon as she was up, John fumbled in a larger paper shopping bag he had brought with him, fishing out an large box wrapped in red with a silver ribbon and bow, and a small ornate gift bag secured with white and purple ribbon. A third small package followed, done up in gold foil. He slipped them beneath the lower branches, in between the numerous other packages so they would not be immediately noticed, then followed her to the balcony.

Tina was staring off in the distance as she stood outside, her arms folded in front of her as she shivered a little. The sheriff stepped behind her, resting his arms on her waist before he kissed her cheek. They watched a flock of birds take flight from the bushes in the English gardens, their movement causing clumps of snow to fly outward. She sighed, amazed at how the weather had changed in twenty-four hours, and savoring the sight of the snowdrifts now covering the Nest as far as she could see. Maintenance had cleaned the walkway leading from the Hotel down to the Tavern, as well as the parking lot, and Tina noticed a newly arriving car pulling in.

"Guess everyone that's coming should be here," she commented, letting her hand brush at some snowflakes away from the balcony wall. A breeze gently stirred her hair, and a few flakes landed on her shoulders.

"I think so. This is going to be a fantastic Christmas, darlin'."

He listened as she sighed before saying, "Wonder how much more it's going to snow? I think we have more than enough to get us all in the spirit."

John shrugged. "Hard to tell. When we headed out this morning there was about three inches out there then. It has slacked off some though."

"I thought *you* were the expert, Mr. Alaska," she teased, and the sheriff laughed, holding her tighter. "Well it can stop anytime as far as I'm concerned. After the storm of '94 at home, when we got two feet of snow, I had my fill of it. I never have to see snow again as long as I live."

"Aw darlin'...don't be like that."

"You're not five-foot-two!" she declared, giggling. "Have you ever seen somebody my height try to maneuver that much snow?" The sheriff laughed harder. "Honestly, it's beautiful out here -- perfect."

"And it's great snow to build snowmen and make snowballs. We have to do that."

Tina rolled her eyes. "Okay, whatever you say." She shivered harder this time, and felt John give her a gentle rub. "Cold."

"This is nothing."

"I know...Actually, this is a heat wave compared to some of the temperatures when we've visited Mystery," she admitted. "But we're here at the Nest right now, all right, and I'm cold. I...just feel the cold more than I used to."

"Since you lost all the weight?" She nodded, and felt Biebe embrace her in an even more protective fashion. "Don't worry sweetheart -- like I'm always telling you, I've got enough padding to keep us both warm."

Smiling and giving a soft laugh, Tina caressed his face. "You always keep me warm, Sheriff Biebe. I've never spent a cold night when I'm with you...But...I think it's time for me to get inside. I'll get plenty of this winter wonderland tonight." Nodding, John led her back inside, watching as she strolled to one of the vases containing the white roses. He watched as she touched the petals on one, then gave it a sniff. "These are so beautiful. Where did you find them this time of year?"

"I have my ways," Biebe joked, winking. "Nah...I have Michelle to thank for that -- her and the Internet. She helped me do some shopping when I told her what I was interested in getting you."

"That was sweet of her. I'm glad she could lend you a hand." Tina wrapped her arms around his neck, then gave him a lingering kiss. "When I woke up and found them in here, I didnít' know what to think. Thank you so much -- again."

"You're very welcome. I wish I could have bought you more, but...well, flowers - as beautiful as they are - don't last forever, and I've bought you other things which I hope do."

"Aw John...." She laid her head against his chest. "Well thank you."

"I just don't know how I'll ever make up for what happened...."

Placing a finger against his mouth, Tina shook her head. "Uh-uh. We're not going there today, okay? Okay?" He nodded, smiling. "I really wish I could have joined you guys this morning. Maybe next year, God willing."

"Well, like I said, you needed your rest. I wouldn't have wakened you up for anything, short of a nuclear war. You just push yourself so much -- work, your personal life. This is a mini-vacation, all right, darlin'. I intend on making sure you relax, and that's an order."

"Yes Mommy." She was quiet for a moment, then she softly said, "You know sometimes, I envy Chelle."

"Envy Chelle? Why Tina?"

"Because...Well, maybe envy's the wrong word. That...special connection she has with all of you guys...The way she can help guide you all into the Real World."

"It's a gift she has, darlin'. She doesn't even know how she got it, but when she came here for the first time, we all knew there was something special about her. That's why she became the Keeper...and our guide."

Tina shook her head. "It's just so beautiful how she can do that with all of you. I wish...I just wish I could do something like that...And you're sure she was okay?"

"Yeah, Brynn was with her, and Colin of course. She needed her sleep -- that was quite a strain on her, helping seven of us."

"I can imagine. I still remember when she guided Max when he went to bring Laura back -- that's the first time I'd seen her do it and it just amazed me. But I could see how stressful it was."

"She still doesn't understand it herself, but...well, it's just part of the magic of the CrowesNest. But all of you ladies have a special gift, darlin', not just Chelle, or Peaches knowing when one of you is coming...Did you ever think in your wildest dreams that you'd be drawn here?" Tina shook her head. "None of us understand it... how you get here, how Michelle does what she does, but it happens. I used to think the others were kidding when they told me about the Connection and soul-mates."

Letting her fingers drift through his auburn locks, she whispered, "I always appreciate Chelle helping when we want to go into the Real World together, even if it is for a short time."

"That's just the way she is. And don't worry, Tina... I've been here over a year now. I'll be able to stay a lot longer with you on our next trips, and believe me," he gently added, "I'm looking forward to the next one more than you'll ever know." Placing his forehead against hers, he continued. "I love for you to come here to the Nest, but there are times..." He chuckled. "...when I feel like we're surrounded on all sides by my 'brothers'."

"I know. Sometimes it's worst than the police department with everyone knowing everyone else and their business... but on a nicer level. No back stabbing."

"Except from Sid... and occasionally Kim when he gets bored. I just hope those two never put their heads together. But no, it'd be nice to be alone for a change... really, really alone."

"And I have a few places in mind, too."

"I can't wait. Hey, we'd better get back to work on these gifts," he said, glancing in the direction of the remaining shopping bags and packages. "It'll be time for the candlelight service before you know it, then..." He lovingly kissed the tip of her nose. "...the party."

"Uh-huh," Tina said dreamily, gazing deep into his eyes as her mind briefly retraced the highlights of their relationship. "Oh, and just a hint. I think a few of you guys will get an eyeful at the party tonight."

"Really?" he asked softly at first, then his voice nearly cracked, as his eyes grew big with amusement. "Really? An eyeful, eh?"

"Yep, and *that* Sheriff Biebe is all I'm gonna say about that. Ready to get back to work?" She laughed at his little boy 'Aw come on' expression as she tugged him towards the center of the room so they could finish.

He turned as he heard Michelle enter from the bedroom and his eyes widened as he saw her. Beautiful, he thought for the umpteenth time that day. She was still a bit pale, obviously still feeling the after-effects of her morning activities, but her blue eyes shone as she came towards him, her medium length auburn hair framing her face. Both of them had decided against dressing up for the Candlelight service, opting for casual comfort and his eyes walked up her body taking in every inch of her, from her black Blundstone boots, which matched the ones he wore, and her black khakis up to the Indigo turtle neck that accentuated her curves and brought out the color of her eyes.

"You look good enough to eat, love." He came to her side and nibbled at her neck, letting his hand caress her stomach. She squirmed underneath his attention, and pushed him away with a giggle.

"Save it for later, hon... the service starts in two minutes." Michelle gave him a seductive grin and reached for her wool trench coat that lay waiting for her on the chair. Colin held it out for her, wrapping it around her shoulders as she slid her arms into the sleeves.

"You're feeling well enough to head out tonight?" He folded his arms around her and pulled her to his chest.

"I certainly hope so, I slept away the entire afternoon." She had waken up in the fireside room some time in the late morning and after a quick lunch back in her suite she had collapsed into a much needed sleep once again. Colin had stayed nearby to watch her, only venturing out to finish a few errands when he was certain she had falling into a deep sleep.

Colin kissed the back of her head before he took her hand and moved them towards the door. "Well, you can relax and have fun tonight, love. All the presents are organized, I took the group ones down to the Tavern earlier and tucked the others under the tree."

Michelle looked at him suspiciously, "You didn't snoop, did you?" Colin gave her his best innocent look before his face broke out into a boyish grin. She slapped his arm and laughed, "I hope you didn't shake it too hard, it could be breakable, you know."

"I don't know what you're talking about." He laughed with her as he escorted her out the door and into the hallway. "Besides, I was too busy thinking about what's awaiting you Christmas morning."

"Ooo, you..." Michelle pouted and looked up into his blue-green eyes, "That's not fair!... No hints? Not even one?"

"Notta one, young lady. You're going to have to wait..." He chuckled as she stomped her feet like a spoiled child. "Oh alright... I suppose I can give you a preview." He leaned in, focusing his gaze on her lower lip before he bit at it, caressing it with his tongue and then claiming her mouth in a passionate kiss. When he pulled away she stood before him, her eyes closed and her breathing heavy.

She sighed, running her hands over his broad shoulders. "What say, we forego the service and just stay up here for the night?"

"No way darlin'." He winked at her and tugged her gently towards the stairs. "No matter how much I'd love to, we'd never hear the end of it. Christmas morning... C'mon, we're going to be late as it is." With a soft sigh and a peck on the cheek, Michelle linked her arm in his and they walked down to the lobby and out into the cool night.

Seated in the second row of seats on the right, John smiled down at his companion, tenderly caressing her left hand as he did. She looked so pretty, he thought, dressed quite casually in a matching cinnamon colored sweater and leggings, the latter tucked into simple black, above ankle boots. It was so different from last year, when he attended alone and spent most of the short service in tears. Jeff Wigand had been the same since he had also "lost" his family as well. This Christmas though -- John sighed happily, and reaching into an inside jacket pocket, withdrew an ivory and silver Rosary. He had promised to say an extra prayer to thank God for sending Tina to him.

Tina waved at Michelle as she and Colin rushed in, obviously afraid they were running too late, and the couple slipped into a pair of empty seats near Lachlan and Brynn. The young pilot rose to greet them, slapping Colin on the back and giving Michelle a quick peck on the cheek before everyone settled back down into their seats again.

Leaning back in her seat, Michelle squeezed Colin's arm and rested her head on his shoulder. He glanced down at her, sighing as he kissed the top of her head. He had never felt this calm, this happy... Not even with Midori. But then this was something so completely different. His life in Heaven's Burning had been a lonely one, and it wasn't until the last few days of that life that he found, in Midori, the love that he has spent his whole life craving. And then suddenly it was gone.... until Michelle had come to him here at the CrowesNest. His fingers traced the back of her hand, and she glanced up at him, smiling. Pushing any memories from his mind, Colin smiled back at her and slid his arm over her shoulders, pulling her closer to him. "I love you..." He whispered into her ear and felt her breath quicken slightly against his cheek. He pulled away and met her gaze again. Her blue eyes looked soft and beautiful as she replied in kind, whispering her love for him.

"Isn't it time we started?" Peaches' hand on his sleeve brought Cort back to the present. His eyes met her's and he leaned in, giving her a slow and gentle kiss. When he pulled away, Peaches giggled softly, her cheeks flushing a light pink. "What was that for?"

"For being here with me."

"Where else would I be?" The look in her eyes told Cort she knew exactly had been on his mind these last few minutes. There had never been a Christmas as special and wonderful as this at the CrowesNest. Kissing her again quickly, Cort rose from his seat and walked to the front, turning to face the others. He cleared his throat, drawing everyone's attention forward.

"Good evening everyone and Merry Christmas!" He smiled as several members replied in kind. He waved his hands to silence them and added, "I'd like to thank everyone for coming to tonight's service. We've got some good stuff planned and I know we're all going to enjoy it. But first, I'd like to start tonight's service with a quick prayer." All heads were lowered in respect as Cort began a simple prayer: "We give thanks tonight for this time of joy and celebration, a time when we can get together with our brothers, our friends and our loved ones to remember the gift that was given centuries ago. We ask a continued blessing on all those present here tonight and on all those who could not be here with us this Christmas. May they feel the love and happiness that we feel here tonight. Amen."

The group affirmed the prayer with a round of 'Amen's' before Cort continued speaking. "Now it's going to be a simple service tonight. A moment to remember what Christmas is all about. Arthur, Colin and East will be leading us in a few carols, and I will be reading a few selections from St. Matthew and St. Luke. But first, we are going to light the candles. If you didn't pick one up on your way in, there should be a few extras resting in the pews." As a quiet murmur filtered through the group, Cort retrieved his own candle from Peaches and lit it from the single candle burning atop the piano.

"Now I don't know how you all do your candlelight services at home, but here... we go pew by pew, lighting one candle at a time. As you pass your flame on to the person beside you, pass on a silent blessing and prayer along with it. A prayer to loved ones who are no longer with us, a blessing of hope and happiness to new friends or companions." With that Cort sat back down next to Peaches and taking her hand in his, he held the heads of their candles together, smiling softly at her as her candle came to life. After a brief look into each other's eyes, Peaches turned to Liz, who sat next to her. And so it continued for several minutes, from person to person, from couple to couple, from pew to pew. After each additional candle was light, there was a silent exchange of blessings and prayers and the group stayed respectfully quiet as candlelight slowly filled the small room.

When the final candle was lit, Cort stood again and nodded to East, Colin and Arthur. The three men proceeded to the front, placing their candles in the available holders and East picked up his guitar, sliding the strap over his shoulder while Colin slid into his seat at the piano. Young Arthur coughed nervously as he came to stand behind the preacher. Cort flipped open his Bible and the group listened as he read to them the story of the Christ child.

"Now it came to pass in those days, there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be enrolled. This was the first enrolment made when Quirinius was governor of Syria. And all went to enrol themselves, every one to his own city. And Jospeh also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David; to enrol himself with Mary, who was betrothed to him, being great with child. And it came to pass, while they were there, the days were fulfilled that she should be delievered. And she brought forth her firstborn son; and she wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn."

Cort closed his Bible and nodded to the musicians behind him before returning to his seat next to Peaches. East began strumming his guitar and Arthur stepped nervously forward, his eyes shifting from the small book in his hand to the crowd that waited patiently for him to speak.

"If... If you'll open your... your hymnals to page seven, we'll start off... off with 'Hark the Herald Angels Sing'." Everyone turned to that page and the music began, Colin on piano and East on the guitar. Arthur began the verse and the rest of the members joined in, filling the tiny chapel with beautiful music. They continued to lead the group in song, singing a wonderful rendition of Silent Night and It Came Upon A Midnight Clear. Quiet applause filled the room as the musicians finished playing and stepped away from the center stage to return to their seats. Cort came forward once more, his Bible open and he continued his reading of the Christmas story. He told them, in a slightly animated fashion of the shepherds watching their flocks and how an angel had come to visit them, telling them that a Savior had born in Bethlehem; of how the shepherds had travelled to Bethlehem and witnessed the Christ child themselves. After a few minutes of reading, the preacher closed his Bible, repeating the chorus the angels had sung before reciting the rest of the story from memory:

"'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.'.... And Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told."

He smiled as he finished, letting his eyes meet several members of the group... Peaches, John, Mannie and NormaJean... watching as all their faces shone behind the candlelight. He nodded in closing and returned to his seat.

Arthur stood up again, and faced the group, heaving a deep sigh as he gathered his thoughts. After a few moments he smiled at everyone and spoke, his voice revealing his still slight nervousness. "I... I just wanted to thank all of you again... for coming to our candlelight service. Like I said, it's so nice to see so many new faces... so many... happy faces..." His sight drifted from Jeff Wigand and Wendy, to Maximus and Laura in their spot near the back of the chapel. Then he briefly watched as Michelle's eyes focused on her beloved Colin, following her gaze as she and the mechanic made contact. He noticed John Biebe place a reassuring arm about Tina's shoulders as she leaned over on him, their candle flames almost touching as they smiled at one another.

"I just think it's... it's... wonderful that all of us could be together at this most... magical... magical time of year. Now... Now... as we bring... bring our program to a close... I would like to sing another carol... but...but....but... this time, I am hoping that a member of our family will join me." That comment started murmurs as Arthur continued. "She has been a part of the Nest since late spring, a welcome part, and I know... I know that... that... the brother to whom she is connected..." Now everyone was beginning to look about at each other. "...She brightens his life... as much as he brightens hers.... In fact, he's the one who suggested that... that... I ask her to... I hope join me in singing this. He told me... she... she has a lovely voice. I hope," he gulped. "I hope she'll share that with the rest of us."

Stepping forward, Baskin moved down the aisle until he was in front of Tina and John. "Tina... Tina... would you join me?"

Tina looked behind her as though he was speaking to another with the same name. Those present were smiling and talking amongst themselves, while some clapping started, then increased. On realizing that all of this was directed at her, she reddened and shook her head, whispering, "Oh Arthur, I don't think...."

"Tina... please... please... join me," was all Arthur could manage as he held out a hand for her to take. "John said... you'd be great."

She looked up at John, giving him a "I'm going to get you for this," expression as she stood, the group's applause increasing while a couple of people called out, "Way to go Tina!" She took her place with Arthur at an angle to the piano, and the young clerk - after placing her candle in an empty holder on the piano - handed a book of sheet music to her, smiling shyly as he did.

"What... What would you like to sing?"

Tina shrugged, the book trembling in her hands. "I... I don't know. Whatever you'd like, Arthur, it's up to you. I can sing almost anything," she admitted, glancing to one side to see all the eager faces.

"I was thinking of 'O Holy Night'. It's on page fifteen. Do you know it?"

"That would be perfect -and yes, yes I know it very well. I sang it in chorus when I was in high school," she explained, flipping to the page he had indicated.

"Then 'O Holy Night' it is. Any particular key?"

Smiling, she chuckled slightly. "I never learned to read music. Just start in... some... key... I don't know. I'll see what happens."

"Fine -- that'll work then. Colin, East...if you're ready."

The piano and guitar accompaniment began the opening measure, and then Arthur followed by singing the lyrics "Oh holy night... The stars are brightly shining.... This is the night of our dear Savior's birth," in his amazingly sweet tone. At first he was afraid that his partner might not be able to gather her nerve, but he saw her shut her eyes and then heard her softly sing, "Long lay the world in sin and error pining... Till he appeared, and the soul felt itsâ worth." Then the two sang together: "A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices, for yonder breaks a new and glorious morn," before they launched into the dynamic chorus: "Fall on your knees... Oh, hear the angels voices. Oh night... divine. Oh night when Christ was born. Oh night... divine. Oh night - oh night divine."

The audience sat in respectful silence as they listened to the shy couple, their voices intensifying with each verse as they grew more confidant. Baskin welcomed having someone sing with him, and Tina - although she used to sing in public - was finding her own public voice again as she opened her eyes. Occasionally she smiled in Arthur's direction, silently encouraging him, and then she would look towards the spectators... towards Michelle, NormaJean and Mannie, Laura and Max... finally John. He was softly watching, a thrilled smile on his lips as he nodded, letting her know that he was excited and proud of her. There was such a look of love in his eyes, she could not help but smile back as she then sang the final line of the second verse with the Welshman: "The King of Kings lay thus in lowly manger... In all our trials born to be our friend."

By the third and final verse, they were a lot more confidant. Arthur was singing a carol he had always loved, and he noticed that Tina obviously had a great affinity for it as well. She barely looked at the sheet music any more; would only give the line a glance and her memory retained it so that she was better able to concentrate on her partner and follow Colin and East's playing. Jeff Mitchell was so excited, he practically applauded every line:

"Truly He taught us to love one another

His law is love and His gospel is peace

Chains shall He break for the slave is our brother (At this, even Max had to grin and clap along with Jeff)

And in His name all oppression shall cease

Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we,

Let all within us praise His holy name."

They launched into the chorus for a final time, and by now, it was almost resembling -- at least to Tina, who had been brought up in a church atmosphere which often consisted of clapping, shouting and celebration -- one of the Pentecostal meetings she knew so well. Even Bud seemed to be having a great time as he whistled towards the two. By the last "Oh night divine" those of the attendees not on their feet were, and Arthur and Tina held hands at the conclusion, giving a slight bow. They then motioned for East and Colin, and the foursome took their bows. Had there been a curtain, the performance would have received a half-dozen ovations. Colin gave Michelle a wink as she blew him a kiss. Kath gave East thumbs up as he beamed at her. Tina's eyes turned in John's direction and saw him give her that familiar gesture over his heart -- the one she recalled from 'Mystery, Alaska'. Smiling, she briefly shut her eyes to force back her tears as she mouthed "I love you."

When they had all quieted again, Cort returned to the podium. "Well...I don't think we've ever had a Christmas Eve service end quite like this. Tina, Arthur -- thank you. Now we know who'll be singing for us next year God willing." There was applause again, and the Welshman led Tina back to her seat, noticing that her initial trembling had returned. East gave her a gentle pat on the shoulder as he mouthed his congratulations when she slipped into the row, and she took a deep breath on returning to Biebe's side. The sheriff wrapped an arm about her waist, and bent forward to give her a tender kiss on the top of the head, and their attention returned to Cort. "We'll just bring our service to a close with the Lord's Prayer...." and bowing his head he began, "'Our Father, who art in Heaven....'" as those present accompanied him.

Glancing down, Tina noticed that John was gently fingering a Rosary in his hands as he spoke the words to the prayer. She reached over, letting her right hand stroke his right, hoping she didn't break his concentration, but he only smiled softly and continued. However, even when 'Amen' was said, she watched as John's lips quickly added something more -- she imagined the words of the Rosary. He crossed himself, just as Cort again thanked everyone for attending, wished them all a Merry Christmas, and concluded the ceremony with "Peace be with you."

"I'll be right back," John said in Tina's ear, and she nodded as he hurried towards the front of the chapel and off to the side. A series of votives were lined in neat rows inside a crystal compartment, for those who wished to light candles for the dead or those in their thoughts. Tina followed close behind, for the ritual always fascinated her, and she watched as John removed the central candle. Carefully, he lit one votive after another in succession, until ten were ablaze, and only then did she whisper, "Who are they for?"

"Hmm?"

"Who are they for?"

He smiled, candle glow reflected in the tears glistening in his eyes. "Two are for my parents; three for my brothers and sister; one for Bailey...." His voice faltered. "One for Donna... and these..." His quivering fingertips drifted close to three. "These...are for my boys.... My... boys."

Tina leaned into him, realizing how difficult this must be despite his outward appearance. "John... I'm so sorry."

"It's been better this year," he admitted, smiling at her. "At least I have you now; that makes all the difference in the world."

Their arms around each other, they walked towards the main vestibule, where others were still gathered, discussing the service.

"Here they are," Steve announced as he, Kelly, and Grant applauded, and the photographer added, "Fantastic job, Tina. I made sure I got the whole thing photographed. I'll be sure to get you a copy."

"Thanks Steve, but... well, if John..." and she poked him in the chest with her fist, "...ever surprises me like that again, I'm going to do something he'll never forget."

"Don't you dare, young lady," Grant declared as Max, Colin, Laura and Michelle approached, Arthur, Andy, Terry Thorne and Liz close behind. "I don't know why we hadn't heard about this talent before."

"Probably because she keeps it well hidden," John said softly, giving her another kiss on the head.

"Well, I don't know why," Liz said. "Tina... you have a great voice. You and Arthur were beautiful together."

Blushing, Tina shrugged. "Well, it's been forever since I sang in public. That was on a cruise ship in a talent show, and before then I was in regular chorus and gospel chorus in high school."

"I heard her sing the first night she came to the Nest, but it was nothing like that," Bud piped up as he and Trisha joined them. 'Great job, Ms. Stewart."

"Fantastic job," Laura said as she patted her on the back. "I don't think I've ever heard you sing before. And I do mean - ever!"

Terry smiled, then stepped over to Tina to give her a short kiss on the cheek. "Great singing, luv... Made me feel very welcome."

"You're welcome, Terry," she replied, her blush increasing so that Biebe gave her a little nudge and shaking his head, said teasingly to his latest 'brother'â "Hey, you'd better watch it Thorne. You now how these ladies get around you."

Everyone laughed and Max - who was still trying to take in the whole Christmas celebration - drew near to also kiss her cheek. "That was lovely, my dear. I... must admit... I am still attempting to comprehend all these matters regarding Christmas. Laura has been doing an excellent job of explaining, as have all you ladies and my 'brothers'. We of course had Christians in the Empire, but....ä He shook his head. "That's another story. Tina... it was marvelous. Promise it won't be long before you sing for us again."

"I'll see," she said softly. Now it was for Arthur Baskin to step up. He looked at John and bashfully asked, "John... John.... Thank you for telling me about Tina. Would... Would you mind...." John smiled, indicating with one hand that it was all right, so that the younger man felt relaxed enough to kiss Tina very quickly and sweetly on her lips. Several persons almost gasped, surprised that this performance had encouraged the Welshman to be less timid. "Tin... Tin... Tina... I wanted to thank you so much for helping me this evening. It... It was a joy... having you as my... uh... singing partner."

"Well, it was a thrill singing with you, Arthur. I just wish I'd been better prepared."

"You... You were wonderful. Promise me it won't be the last time."

The evidence technician looked up at the Alaskan. "I promise, Arthur. Just give me some warning next time, okay?"

He nodded, beaming from ear to ear. "Promise."

"So she is not only a beautiful lovebird, but a songbird as well." The group turned at the words and who had uttered them. Sid 6.7 stood off to one side, his features the height of reverence as he stood underneath a painting of the Madonna and Child. Glancing up, he made the sign of the cross when he noticed it. Continuing to smile at their obvious annoyance with him, he said, "And Merry Christmas to all of you as well. God bless us everyone and all that sort of thing." He bowed to Tina. "Mon cher, you should never hide such wonderful talent. It simply amazes me what gifts all of our lovely ladies have.'

Sighing and rolling his eyes, Bud started with "Sid..." but was interrupted when the cyber-psycho raised his hands and said, "Now, now, Wendell. Nothing was meant by my comment, I assure you, for I am here in the spirit of the season. I could not help but be drawn to Etienne's lovely voice. So our Nest has itsâ own Jenny Lind, but instead of a Swedish Nightingale, we have the Louisville Nightingale."

"Let's go," Trisha insisted before Bud blew a gasket. Everyone agreed, heading for the exit, ignoring Sid as he continued. "John... if I were you, I'd pay closer attention to young Baskin there. Wouldn't want him and Etienne to start performing other duets together," and he giggled that usual cackle.

"Just ignore him," Tina said through gritted teeth as she and Biebe moved outside. However, she couldn't help but notice how red Arthur had become as he nearly slid on the snow. Both she and the sheriff grabbed him by either arm before he hit the ground, and Tina knew most of it was due to Sid and his embarrassing comment.

"Can't you be good for one night?" Michelle asked as she and Colin also started to leave.

Sid gave his most charming smile, which resembled a leer instead. "Oh but I *am* Michelle *ma belle* -- I most certainly am. Did I interrupt when Etienne and Baskin were performing, or when the gunman was sermonizing about Jesus or whomever? No, I was a very good little boy. Don't want to get coal in my stocking, now do I?" He moved from his spot. "And I hope that in all the excitement, you have not forgotten...."

"No Sid...I haven't forgotten our agreement," Michelle said, smiling her sweetest at him, an action that caused Sid to look quite delighted. "You won fair and square...and I don't go back on my agreements."

"And *that* is something I adore about you sweet Michelle." He could see that O'Brien was turning a light shade of red, a reaction which caused Sid to smile even more. "So I will see you...."

"You'll see me at 11 pm -- exactly as we agreed."

To be continued....