The next morning, the nursery truck arrived with the tree in the back. Steve and Jan greeted the driver, escorting him out back. Once they decided on the location, the driver returned to the truck to aid his partner with the tree.

Helen, Jim and Josh joined Steve and Jan out back as the two men rounded the corner with the tree. Steve insisted on helping the men plant the tree; the men didn’t object. A short time later, the three men stood back, looking at the tree.

“Perfect,” Steve announced. They staked the tree to hold it in place until the tree took root. Steve thanked the two men, walking them back to their truck.

Returning to the backyard, he stood beside Jan, looking at the tree. “Have you decided on a name?” he asked quietly? They had decided to give their lost daughter a name. Steve told Jan that whatever name she chose would be fine by him.

“Yes. Her name is Sarah Ann,” Jan whispered to Steve.

Steve stooped down next to Josh, putting his arm around Josh’s shoulder. “Josh, we have something to tell you. During the car accident, Mom lost a baby, your sister. We’ve planted this tree in her memory. We’ve decided your sister’s name will be Sarah Ann.”

Josh’s lower lip started to tremble. Jan kneeled down next to Josh. Both she and Steve held Josh close as he started to cry. Jim held Helen close and she started to weep.

Thunder could be heard miles away while a gentle rain fell.

For the following week, Steve could find Jan sitting under the tree on a blanket, book in hand. At first he was concerned, hoping Jan wasn't dwelling on their lost daughter, but after the first couple of days he realized she was much happier and talking of future plans.

Steve stood, sipping his coffee, watching his wife. Josh appeared at his side a moment later, watching his Mom.

"Is Mom okay?" Josh asked, looking up to Steve.

Steve ruffled Josh's hair, "Yes, she's fine."

Josh huffed, straightening his hair. He returned to the TV.

Steve stood a moment longer before heading for the kitchen. He washed out his cup and then placed it in the sink. Helen was busy making lunch.

"Mom, I can do that," Steve insisted.

"Shush," Helen retorted. "You know I enjoy cooking. Besides, we'll be leaving at the end of next week, so you'll have plenty of chance to cook after that."

Steve took the knife out of her hand and placed it on the counter. He then took her by the shoulders and turned Helen to face him. "You have no clue how much I love you and Dad. I am so thankful for all the help the two of you have given us over these past months. I don't know what we would have done without your help." Steve bent over and gave his Mother a big hug, which Helen gladly returned. Steve released her then gave her a kiss on the cheek.

"Look here Steven Austin, don't make me cry while I'm trying to cook lunch," Helen sniffed. She looked up into those big blue eyes, "There is no way we wouldn't have come out to help. I'm thankful that things are getting back to normal, that you and Jan are healing. Now get your butt out of here so I can finish preparing the meal." Helen spun Steve around and pushed him toward the door. She heard Steve chuckling as he headed out the back door.

The day passed uneventfully. Josh spent most of the day putting together a puzzle, with a little help from Jim. When bedtime arrived, Steve ushered a reluctant Josh up to bed.

Returning downstairs, he seated himself next to Jan.

"Is everything set for tomorrow?" Jim questioned.

"Sure is," Jan replied. "Rudy called a little while ago. He'll be here soon."

"Oscar called earlier this afternoon," Steve said. "He's spending the night at the Base and hinted that he's brought a friend with him." Steve tried to get details, but failed. "I kid you not, I swear he's referring to a female friend."

"You're kidding," Helen exclaimed. "It'll be interesting to see if you're right!"

They continued discussing plans for the following day's party. When the doorbell rang, Steve sprung to the door, answering before Rudy could ring again.

Steve led Rudy into the living room, and then took Rudy's luggage to the guest room.

After returning to the living room, couldn't refrain from asking. "Alright Rudy, spill the beans. Does Oscar have a girlfriend?"

Rudy sat silent, trying not to smile. He promised Oscar not to say a word.

"HA!" Steve exclaimed. "I'm right! You've told me without telling me!" Steve beamed from ear to ear.

Rudy started laughing. "I told Oscar I wouldn't be able to keep his secret. If it involves National Security or the like, yes, I can and will take it to my grave."

"Who is she?" Jan asked. For the short time Jan had known Oscar, he didn't appear to be one to have a girl in his life since he is already married to his job.

"Sorry Jan, I'm not saying another word. You'll meet her tomorrow," Rudy replied.

Josh rose early, dressing quickly. He bolted downstairs to the kitchen, ready for breakfast. "Morning Mom," he said while taking a seat at the table. "What's for breakfast?"

"Pancakes, eggs, bacon, orange juice. The usual," she replied.

"Great, my favorite," Josh replied. "Did I hear the door bell last night?"

"Yes, Rudy arrived after you went to bed," Jan replied. "Please set the table while I finish cooking," she asked.

"Sure." Josh retrieved dishes, silverware, and cups for six people. Once finished setting each spot, he announced, "Done."

Jan glanced at the table, making sure Josh set enough place settings. "Thanks Josh. Looks good from here."

"Morning," Rudy said, entering the kitchen. Spotting Josh, "Hey kiddo, how are you doing?" he asked while pouring himself a cup of coffee.

Josh smiled. "Hi Dr. Wells, I'm okay." Checking to make sure his Mom wasn't looking, Josh pointed toward the living room. He wanted to ask Rudy about his Mom's memory.

Rudy nodded. Josh left the room first. "Jan, can I help with anything?" Rudy asked.

"No, thanks though," Jan replied. "I think I've got it under control, for now."

"OK then. I'm going to watch TV. I'd like to catch up on the news. Yell if you need help," he said, leaving the room. He found Josh staring out the window.

"Josh?" Rudy called quietly. He seated himself on the couch.

Josh turned away from the window, moving to the couch. He glanced toward the kitchen to make sure Jan hadn't followed.

Rudy turned on the TV to the news, hoping to mask their conversation. "Is something wrong?"

Josh sighed. "Mom still doesn't remember my Dad. I've tried doing things with her that we used to do together, but it's not working."

"It just takes time, Josh," Rudy replied. "It took a while for her to remember Steve, and he is here."

Josh wiped away the tears that started to form. "It's just so hard. I can't even talk about my Dad."

"I know, and I'm sorry. It might be harder on your Mom, though, if we just tell her about your real Dad instead of letting her memory return on its own." Rudy felt bad for Josh, but didn't know what to do for him.

Josh nodded. "That's what my Dad said. Thanks anyway." Josh stood and left the room, heading outside.

Steve, who had been eavesdropping from the hall, sat in the chair across from Rudy. "It's just killing me to see him wander around like that, not being able to talk about his Father, but I know it's for the best that we don't tell Jan."

"I know you and Jan have had it rough since the accident, but I really think Josh has gotten the short end of the stick," Rudy said. "Hopefully the party will help cheer him. What did you get him?"

"An assortment of things; bicycle, telescope, building blocks, puzzles, and so on. He'll be one spoiled boy by the end of the day," Steve replied.

"Will be spoiled?" Rudy teased. "Let's face it, he's been spoiled since you entered the picture. Fortunately, it hasn't gone to his head!"

"Breakfast!" Jan announced from the kitchen.

"I'll get Josh," Rudy offered.

"Thanks. I'll get my parents. They've been up for a while. I think their wrapping gifts," Steve said.

Shortly after the breakfast dishes were cleared away, the doorbell rang. Knowing Oscar was at the door, Steve quickly headed down the hallway, wanting to get there first. He heard the others down the hall, poking their heads around the corner.

Steve opened the door to a beautiful sight. The woman before him had long, black silky hair; dark piercing eyes, a striking smile and stood about a head shorter than her companion. Next to her stood Oscar, in jeans and a casual shirt. Although he expected the visitors, his eyebrows shot up. "Oscar?"

"Hey Pal, how ya doing?" Oscar said. Before Steve could answer, he continued. "Steve, let me introduce Shelly Newman. Shelly, this is Steve Austin."

"How do you do?" Shelly said.

"Fine, fine. Please come in." Steve stood to the side, letting the couple pass. He poked Oscar in the shoulder and threw him a wink. "You sly dog," he whispered.

Oscar chuckled.

Steve led the couple down the hall to the family room. Everyone, except Rudy, was shocked to see the couple. Introductions were made and drinks were poured.

Over the next hour, additional friends, both Jan's, Steve's, and Josh's arrived.

The party filled the afternoon, spilling into the evening. Once Josh was tucked in, the party continued into the wee hours of the morning.

Oscar and Shelly said their good-byes, heading back to the base for the night before returning to Washington the following day. Rudy headed off to bed, bidding the couple goodnight.

Shortly thereafter, the house was calm but a mess. Jan and Steve stood looking at the family room. They glanced at each other for a moment, turned and went to bed, leaving the mess for the morning.

Later that morning Steve quietly climbed out of bed, hoping to get most of the post-party mess cleaned up prior to Jan waking.

He ran a comb through his hair, put on shorts and a tee shirt and headed downstairs. Upon entering the family room, he was astounded to find it in order. He checked the living room, finding it too to be clean.

Hearing the hum of the dishwasher, Steve wandered into the kitchen to find Rudy sitting at the table, writing something on a pad of paper.

“Rudy?”

Rudy looked up from his notes. “Morning. The coffee is fresh.”

“Did you clean everything?” Steve asked, grabbing a cup.

“Yeah. I’ve been up for hours, so I figured I’d do a little cleaning before diving into my notes,” Rudy replied.

“Thanks for cleaning up, you didn't have to do it. What's wrong, you couldn’t sleep?” Steve asked, taking a seat at the table.

“You know me, I rarely sleep. I woke with an idea which I needed to get on paper,” he explained.

Steve slid some of the notes and drawings in his direction. The drawing appeared to be modifications for his legs, and the notes were beyond his comprehension.

“I take it you’ll be experimenting on me in the foreseeable future?” Steve joked.

Rudy looked up from the paper. “Maybe. I’ve come up with an idea that will make more efficient use of your power cells.”

“I thought the cells would last for at least a 100 years!” Steve laughed.

“Hardly,” Rudy chuckled. “The modification will, if it works, also provide you with a boost in speed. You should be able to surpass your current record.”

Steve sipped his coffee, “Yeah, well, just don’t tell Oscar. I have no intentions of going back to work for him any time soon.”

“Speaking of work,” Rudy started, turning his attention to Steve. “You are physically capable to return to work. I haven’t said anything because of Jan, but I can’t keep you on medical leave forever.” Rudy had been holding the Air Force at bay for the past 7 months and knew that he’d been pressing his luck. Oscar had stepped in a few times, forcing Steve’s superiors to back down.

“I think I’m ready to go back,” Steve admitted. “I can’t hover over Jan every hour of the day. She needs her space and to start getting into a routine. We’ve already discussed this.”

“Should I put in that you’ll be ready for duty on August 1st? That will give you three more weeks off.” Rudy said.

“That would be fine,” Steve replied.

“During the remaining weeks, I’d recommend you spend some time with Josh. I’m concerned about his mood. He seems a bit more depressed since my last visit.” Rudy knew the issue of Josh’s father weighed heavily on the boy’s mind, but Rudy couldn’t think of anything to do to help him. “Are you and Jan still seeing Clay?”

Steve nodded. “Jan’s been a couple of times, and I’ve got another appointment for next week. Do you think Josh should see him?” Steve had been thinking about making an appointment, but hadn’t made a decision.

“Since Clay knows what is going on, I would ask him if he’d be willing to see Josh. Just let Clay know that Josh is having issues with Jan’s memory loss in regards to Dale. Clay may be able to give you some suggestions without having to see Josh, or he may very well want to have you bring Josh in,” Rudy replied.

Hearing the thumping of footsteps coming down the stairs, the two men changed the topic of conversation.

A sullen Josh entered the room, seating himself at the table without saying a word.

“You want some breakfast?” Steve asked.

Josh shrugged, “I guess.” He was still dressed in his pajamas and not completely awake.

“I’ll get you some milk and cereal,” Steve said. He quickly found a clean glass, but had a little more trouble locating a clean bowl. He finally dug a Superman bowl out of the back of the cabinet. He poured the cereal and milk, and then placed them in front of Josh.

Josh poked at the cereal before taking a few bites. “I guess I’m not that hungry,” he said. Josh pushed himself away from the table and wandered back to his room.

Steve checked the clock to see if Clay would be in the office. He placed the call and managed to talk to Clay briefly. Steve explained the situation and asked if he could bring Josh in for an appointment. Clay agreed, as long as he could see Steve and Josh together for a while, then speak to Josh alone. Steve had no problem with it and made the appointment for late that afternoon.

Helen and Jim overheard the tail end of the conversation as they entered the kitchen. Helen proceeded to make breakfast while Jim seated himself at the table.

Rudy gathered up his paperwork, taking it to his room.

“Why are you taking Josh to see Clay?” Helen questioned.

"He's having a hard time with Jan's memory loss. She hasn't remembered Dale or the plane crash, so Josh has had to stay quiet about his father. He was fine with it in the beginning, but you may have noticed he's become a little more withdrawn lately," Steve explained.

"I've noticed," Jim admitted. "The gleam in his eye is missing."

Steve returned to the table. "School will be starting soon, so he'll have something to keep his mind active, but until then..."

Rudy wandered back into the kitchen, fetching another cup of coffee.

"It's going to be harder for Josh once the two of you leave," Rudy commented to Helen.

Helen sighed. "I know, but we do need to get back to Ojai."

"Helen, if Steve will have you, I can handle being alone for a while," Jim commented. "I've got some fence mending to do, and I want to clean out the barn for the new horse we'll be purchasing this fall."

Helen wiped her hands on a towel, and then walked over to her husband. With a gleam in her eye, "James Elgin, are you sure you aren't trying to get rid of me."

"Me? I would never do that!" Jim replied with a chuckle.

"Mom, Jan and I would love for you to stay. If you feel, though, that you need to keep an eye on Dad, that's fine too. I know how he manages to get into trouble when unsupervised," Steve teased.

Helen glared at her husband, playfully. "Do you promise to stay off the roof?"

Jim raised his right hand; "I solemnly swear I shall keep my feet on the ground until your return." Jim tried to keep a straight face, but it didn't work.

"Alright then," Helen said. She turned her attention back to Steve. "How about if I stay until Josh goes back to school?"

"Perfect," said the voice in the hall. A moment later, Jan walked into the kitchen. "And would someone tell me how the mess managed to get cleaned up?"

Rudy raised his hand, "I did it. I confess."

Jan gave Rudy a big hug. "Thank you very much, although you didn't need to do it."

"I know, I know..."

With breakfast ready, everyone, except Josh, sat to enjoy Helen's cooking.

Shortly after lunch, Steve explained to Jan that Josh was having a few problems, which would be best handled by Clay. Jan pushed, trying to get details. She realized, though, that her husband's silence meant he wouldn't say another word.

Steve promised that when the time was right, he would tell her about it.

"I trust your judgment," Jan said. "If you and Rudy feel Josh needs to see Clay, then that's fine by me." She gave Steve a big hug and a kiss. "After the appointment, why don't you take Josh out for ice cream. He hasn't been acting like himself lately."

"Will do," Steve said.

It took a bit of coaxing, and a promise of ice cream, for Steve to get Josh out of his bedroom. Steve explained to Josh that they were going to see Clay for a little while, and that Clay may want to talk him alone. Josh balked at first, but finally agreed.

The drive to the office was quiet. Steve tried engaging Josh in conversation, but nothing seemed to work. He finally gave up and turned on the radio.

Once in the reception room, they checked in with the nurse and were told to go on into Clay's office. Steve led the way, with Josh in tow.

"Steve," Clay said, rounding the desk. "How are you doing?"

"Okay, I guess."

Clay bent down to Josh's level. "And you must be Josh. I've heard a lot about you."

Josh hid behind Steve, suddenly shy.

Steve sidestepped, revealing Josh once again. "That's a switch, Josh. You've never been known to be shy."

"It's okay to be nervous," Clay said. "Why don't we all sit down and get comfortable."

The trio found their seats, Josh staying close to Steve.

Steve explained the situation at length, hoping Josh might chime in, but to no avail. They spent the first half hour discussing the situation, along with possible solutions for Josh's problem. At the end of the half hour, Clay asked Josh if it would be okay for Steve to leave the room for a little while.

"It's okay, Josh. I'll be right outside the door," Steve said in a soothing tone.

Josh didn't want to stay, but knew he didn't have a choice. He turned 9 a few months back and knew that he was growing up and needed to be a big boy, not a crybaby. Reluctantly, he agreed.

Once Steve had left the room, Clay returned to his seat. "Okay, Josh, let's talk about what you can do to help your Mother remember your Father..."

A week had passed since Josh’s visit with Clay. Since the appointment, Josh’s mood improved slightly. Steve hadn’t a clue what Clay had told Josh, and wasn’t going to push Josh for details.

One morning, Steve found Josh sitting in his room, looking through a photo album.

“Mind if I join you?” Steve asked.

“Sure,” Josh replied, scooting over on the bed.

Steve seated himself next to Josh. He scrutinized the photos. They were obviously older pictures, and of people he didn’t recognize.

As if reading Steve’s thoughts, “This is my Mom and Dad, shortly before I was born. It was taken at my grandparent’s house,” Josh explained.

Steve looked at the picture, noticing the woman, although pregnant, looked beautiful. “Well, this picture sure explains where you got your hair and eyes.”

“Yeah, my Dad said I look like my Mom,” Josh sighed. He turned the page, revealing the beginning of his baby pictures.

“You were a big baby, Josh. What happened?” Steve teased. The picture showed Josh’s mother sitting in a wheelchair, holding a big bundle.

Josh shrugged. “Don’t know.” Josh heard footsteps approaching his room, so he quickly put the book away.

Steve was relieved to see it was his Mother entering the room.

“Are you boys staying out of trouble?” Helen questioned.

Steve and Josh looked at each other before answering in unison, “Yes ma’am.”

“Josh, you have a phone call,” Helen said.

Josh bolted out of his room.

“I didn’t hear the phone ring,” Steve commented. The house has multiple phones, including one in the master bedroom, which is just down the hall.

“You didn’t?” Helen questioned, looking concerned. “Are you sure your hearing is okay?”

Steve looked puzzled, but was relieved when his Mother started laughing.

“No, Steve, the phone didn’t ring. I called to check up on Jim, and he wanted to talk with Josh, to see how he’s doing,” Helen explained.

Steve chuckled. “You got me that time,” he admitted.

They followed Josh downstairs. Steve wanted to talk with his Dad as well. While he waited, he helped Jan fold clothes. Josh, now earning an allowance, was responsible for putting the clothes in the proper rooms. The pile continued to build.

After handing the phone to Steve, Josh gathered as much as he could carry for his first trip.

Once in his room, Josh dug out the photo album and opened it to a picture of him and his Dad. Jan took the picture a few years ago while they were out fishing. Josh looked around the room, trying to find a good spot to leave it out without looking too obvious. He decided his desk would be a good location, since his Mom occasionally put things on it. He quickly arranged the album so it looked like it had been sitting there for a couple of days. With the task accomplished, he returned to get the next load.

Several days passed without Jan entering Josh’s room. He tried to be as patient as possible, but he was frustrated.

Thinking back to what Clay had suggested, Josh took some of his drawing materials downstairs and drew several pictures.

Jan had passed through the room several times, glancing at the drawings. Even though she didn’t recognize the location Josh drew, she was impressed by the detail. “You’re going to be quite an artist,” she commented.

Josh looked up for a moment, grinning. “Thanks,” he said, turning his attention back to the drawings.

Having gotten her attention, even for a moment, he managed to expose his Mom to pictures of their old home in Indiana. He took them upstairs and posted them on a corkboard hanging over his desk.

Later in the day, Jan asked Josh what he did with the pictures. Josh told her they were hanging in his room and to feel free to look at them when she wants.

Josh casually wandered outside, joining Steve on the deck. He secretly prayed his Mom would look at the pictures.

Unfortunately, several days had passed and Jan had yet to see the pictures. Josh was desperate. Although Steve is responsible for getting Josh off to bed, Josh asked for his Mom to tuck him in that evening. Slightly puzzled, Steve agreed.

After finishing his bath, Josh changed into his pajamas, then returned downstairs to give his Grandma a hug and kiss goodnight.

Helen gave him a big hug. “Good night, sweetie.”

“'Night,” he replied. Josh bounded up the stairs with Jan in tow. He climbed into bed, allowing Jan to tuck him in.

Jan leaned over and kissed Josh on the forehead. “Goodnight, Munchkin.”

“'Night Mom. I love you,” Josh said. He turned onto his side and snuggled into the covers. He hoped his Mom would glance at the pictures before she turned out the light.

Remembering the pictures Josh drew, Jan glanced up at the board, examining the drawings. Something in the pictures of the house and yard seemed familiar, but couldn’t figure out why.

Glancing down, Jan noticed a photo album, open to a page with a picture of Josh and a man. She stared hard at the picture. The picture was obviously a few years old, since Josh was much younger in it.

She glanced back at Josh, who had fallen asleep. Jan carefully picked up the album, turned off the light and left the room. Instead of going downstairs, she took the book to her room.

Closing the door behind her, Jan set the album on the bed, turning to the first page. She slowly turned the pages, looking at the pictures. A dim memory flickered in the back of her mind, just out of reach.

She continued flipping through the pages, noticing an occasional missing picture. Finally, a picture triggered a memory. It showed a handsome looking man leaning against a new car. His brilliant smile captured her attention. A series of images flashed through her brain. She tried grasping at them, but they slipped away. Jan realized she knew the man.

“Who…” she muttered to herself. Jan had no clue how long she had been staring at the picture when Steve entered the room.

He saw his loving wife staring down on a picture of her deceased husband. Steve swallowed hard, worried for her emotional stability. He cleared his throat, getting her attention.

“Steve,” Jan said without looking up.

Steve sat next to Jan, placing a loving arm around her. “Do you remember anything?”

Jan nodded. “There’s something about his face.” Jan flipped a few pages ahead to the picture of the man and Josh. She placed a finger on the man, “I think this is Josh’s father.”

Steve tightened his hold on Jan. “Anything else?”

Jan thought hard, trying to drudge up the fleeting thoughts. Tears spilled over, flowing down her face. “Dale. My dear Dale.” Jan turned and buried her face in Steve’s shoulder.

Steve held her tight, wishing he could take away the pain. Jan had grieved for her husband once, and was destined to grieve again. Time stood still. Steve held onto Jan until she was ready to break the embrace.

When Jan pulled away, leaving Steve sitting on the bed. She walked down the hall to Josh’s room. Jan took a seat on the edge of the bed, staring down at Josh. She began to silently weep again. Jan lay down next to Josh, carefully hugging him.

Steve checked on Jan minutes later. Jan had fallen asleep, holding Josh. He retrieved a blanket from their room and covered Jan. He filled Helen in on the events of the evening, and then excused himself for the evening.

With the last important puzzle piece in place, Steve, Jan and Josh settled comfortably into their lives. Helen returned to Ojai shortly before Josh returned to school. Jim managed to break his arm while working in the barn, so everyone agreed that Helen needed to go home to be Jim's keeper during his recovery.

The months passed uneventfully. As Christmas approached, Josh presented his wish list to his parents. The closer the holiday came, the more helpful Josh became.

On Christmas Eve, Steve and Jan's first anniversary, Josh went to bed early, waiting for Santa's arrival. Steve and Jan had already made their evening calls, and had received congratulations on their first anniversary.

The happy couple sat quietly on the couch, sipping wine. Christmas music played quietly in the background. Steve looked to Jan with a gleam in his eye. He took the wine glass from Jan, setting both glasses on the table. He leaned over to kiss Jan. Before he knew it, it was one passionate kiss, which would lead them to the bedroom.

In mid-kiss, however, the phone rang. The couple pulled apart, staring at each other. Steve reached behind the couch, picked up the phone and unplugged it. After returning the phone to the table, Steve turned his attention back to his wife.

"Now," he purred, "where were we?"

Jan gazed up into his brilliant baby blues, with a sly smile on her face she said, "We're pregnant."