Part Nine
 

Thanksgiving 1990
 

Amanda and Dotty were in the kitchen cleaning up the pots and pans after a very filling, Thanksgiving dinner.  Curt and the boys were watching football on the television, waiting for   their meal to settle. The pies were on the stove cooling, soon to be devoured.

“I’m glad you and Curt came over for Thanksgiving, Mother.  I’ve missed having you around,” Amanda remarked, when she finished scrubbing the roasting pan.

“According to your sons, you’ve been very busy,” Dotty answered as she dried the pan.

“Yes, I have been busy with work and training Monty.  He’s learning fast.  Good thing, too, there were so many bomb scares recently.  I’ve worked an emergency call three times this month.  Luckily, none of them turned out to be a live bomb.”

“That’s not what I meant.  I heard there’s a new man in your life,” Dotty commented with a raised eyebrow.  “So, when am I going to meet this new beau of yours?”

“He’s not actually a boyfriend; we’re… friends, and we’ve only gone out a couple of times.”

“Really?  Phillip said you went out three times in one week alone!”

“Mother, the boys are exaggerating things a bit.  Remember I told you I had to re-qualify on the shooting range?” Amanda asked her mother.  Dotty nodded.  “Scott helped me.  He’s the Marine who trained me and Monty.”

“Oh, it’s Scott now,” Dotty said with a smile.  “I see!”

“No, Mother, you don’t see.  He’s an expert with a firearm.  He went with me to the shooting range and gave me a few pointers.  If it hadn’t been for him, I wouldn’t have qualified and I would’ve been suspended from the ATF.  I made him a home cooked meal as a thank you and then we went to the Kennedy Center afterwards, to see a show.”

“Then you’re just sleeping with him?” Dotty remarked casually.

“Why would you think that?” Amanda gasped; her eyes wide open with alarm.

“Jamie told me that you spent the night at his house last week!”

“I told you about that.  Remember I went to Richmond last week for the competition with Monty and got caught in that nasty ice storm on my way home?”

“I remember a snowstorm last week.”

“It rained in Richmond and snowed here, but they got an ice storm down in Woodbridge and Fredericksburg,” Amanda explained to her mother.

“If you say so, dear.”

Amanda was getting exasperated with her mother.  “I can’t believe you don’t remember the storm.  There was a big accident on I-95 near Woodbridge, a truck jackknifed and closed the road, northbound for hours.  I was sitting on the highway, north of Fredericksburg, going nowhere.  It was late, and the weather was getting worse.  Scott happened to call me on my cell phone.  He lives near Quantico and suggested I come by his place before I ran out of gas.”

“You told me you spent the night with a friend.  You failed to mention that he was a man, or that you’d been dating each other for two months.”

“I spent the night in his spare bedroom, with Monty sleeping at my feet.  Scott was a perfect gentleman and a very gracious host!  Nothing happened,” she answered indignantly.

“What a shame,” Dotty mumbled.

“Mother!  You wonder why I don’t mention things like this to you.  You blow them out of proportion and take things out of context.”

“Sweetheart, I think it’s wonderful that you’re dating  again,” she commented with a shrug.  “It’s about time.  Don’t make the same mistakes with him that you did with Lee.”

“And what was that?” Amanda asked in annoyance.

“Come on, Amanda, you and Lee dragged your feet at every step of your relationship.  Learn from your mistakes.  The boys are in high school now.  They’ll both be off to college in a few years and you’ll be all alone.  Revel in the opportunities life sends your way.  Don’t waste them.”

“Mother, I really don’t want to talk about this anymore.”

Dotty didn’t get the message.  “Why don’t you consider inviting him to Christmas dinner?  I’d love to meet him.”

“For all I know, Scott might be going home to Colorado for Christmas, or depending upon what happens in Kuwait, shipped overseas,” she said.  The truth of that statement weighed heavily on her mind.  Despite all her reservations, she was starting to care for Scott Mackey.

“But you don’t know that for sure, do you?” Dotty pressed.  Amanda shrugged.  “Why didn’t you invite him to dinner today?”

“Today’s a day we spend with family.  It was the first time you and Curt were coming over as a married couple.  I thought it would be best…”

“You were chicken!” Dotty taunted before she dared her.  “Invite him for Christmas dinner.”

”Mother, stop!  I’ll talk with Scott and see if he has any plans for the holiday, but please, let me make my own decisions.”

“I just don’t want you to make the same mistakes…”

“It’s my life, Mother, and my mistakes to make,” Amanda answered, wiping her wet hands with a kitchen towel.  “Now, why don’t you grab the apple pie and call everyone into the dining room?  I’ll be right behind you with the cherry pie.  I think it’s time for dessert.”

***

The weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas were very hectic for Amanda and her coworkers.  The staff at the ATF was on alert because of the numerous bomb threats that had been called in, around the DC area.  Most had been false alarms, but three bombs had exploded.  Fortunately, nobody had been killed so far, but the employees at the ATF were all on edge.

When she arrived back at the office late in the afternoon, Amanda was being paged for a phone call.  She hurried to her office and picked up the call.  “This is Amanda King.”

“Amanda,” Scott said with relief.  “I heard an ATF agent was injured by a bomb this morning and I was worried…”

“It wasn’t me.  It was one of the bomb squad members.  They were trying to move it from the building when it went off.  It was a contained explosion, but some of the fragments caused some burns and a laceration that needed stitches.”

“I’m glad to hear it wasn’t anything more serious.  I’ve been following it on the news.  The media has now dubbed the culprit as ‘The Beltway Bomber’. Do they think all the bombs are from one source?”

“At this point, it’s too early to tell,” Amanda answered.

“I’ve wanted to call you, but with Operation Desert Shield, I’ve been very busy.”

“I understand.  I’m swamped with work, too.  I’ve been appointed to the new task force to apprehend the bomber.  On top of an already hectic schedule, I’m trying to attend those sessions and get ready for Christmas.  Which reminds me, are you going to be in town for Christmas or are you shipping out or flying home?” she asked, glancing at her desk and the reports that were piling up.  It reminded her of the days back in the Q Bureau, with Lee.

“I’ll be in town; I haven’t been home for a Colorado Christmas in years.  I don’t expect to be shipped out until the end of January, if at all…” he explained.

Amanda wasn’t sure she had the nerve to invite him to Christmas dinner.  She did want to spend more time with him, but inviting him to a family gathering… with her mother?  It could end up being a disaster.  Swallowing hard, she finally asked. “I know this is last minute and you probably have plans already, but would you care to join us for Christmas dinner on Tuesday?” she asked nervously.  “I’m cooking a traditional Christmas goose and all the trimmings.”

“Sounds delicious, I’d love to come.  What time?”

“We’re eating at two, but you’re welcome to come over anytime in the afternoon.”

“Can I bring something, dessert, maybe?”

Amanda laughed.  “No, trust me; we’ll have enough food to feed the Marine Corp.”

“Speaking of the Marine Corp, do you have any plans for New Year’s Eve yet?” Scott asked.

“New Year’s, no…”

“Would you like to accompany me to a New Year’s Eve Gala?  It’s formal; dress uniforms for the officers and gowns for the ladies…”

Amanda thought about it for a moment before answering.  She’d enjoyed their date at the Kennedy Center, but it had been a long time since she’d gone out for a special celebration and really dressed up.  Years ago, she’d accompanied Lee to embassy balls or other social events, but since he was gone, she’d stayed home.  “Scott, that sounds like it would be fun.  You can tell me more about it on Christmas.”

“It’s a date, then.  I’ll look forward to seeing you on Christmas; oh, and Amanda, be careful out there, huh?”

“I will,” she replied and hung up the phone.

* ** **

Christmas day at the King household was always chaotic.  The boys tore through their presents with unmitigated glee in the early morning.  Dotty and Curt arrived before noon and there were more presents to open.  Dotty helped Amanda in the kitchen, but doggedly questioned her daughter on her budding relationship with Scott.

“Mother, he’s going to be here in a little while.  Please don’t embarrass him with a million questions,” Amanda pleaded with her mother as she anxiously waited for Scott’s arrival.

“Sweetheart, I would never do anything to embarrass your guest.  Besides, I’ll be busy in here with you, cooking.”

The doorbell rang a while later and Amanda shot a quick glance at her mother.  “Please don’t give him the third degree, Mother.”

“Amanda, darling, I wouldn’t dream of it.  Now, go visit with your boyfriend.”

Dotty managed to be reasonably reserved for most of Christmas dinner.  Instead, the boys peppered Scott with questions about being a Marine, the impending war in Iraq, and the rifle range.

“Enough talk about war, guns, and shooting,” Dotty scolded.  “You know, Scott, Amanda never mentioned how tall and handsome you are.  You must be six foot, two.”

He blushed, slightly.  “Six feet, three, ma’am.”

“Please call me, Dotty.  Why don’t you tell us a little about yourself,” she suggested with a sweet smile.

“Well, sure, what would you like to know?” he asked politely.

“Amanda hasn’t told me anything about you other than that you’re originally from Colorado,” Dotty remarked almost casually.  “Tell me, Scott, have you ever been married?”

“Actually, yes, I was married briefly, right after college.  Unfortunately, my wife wasn’t,” he replied without missing a beat, smiling at Dotty and then over at Amanda.

Amanda almost choked on her mashed potatoes, but before she could say anything, Jamie piped in.

“What do you mean your wife wasn’t?” Jamie asked naively.

Phillip poked his brother in the ribs and whispered, but in the silence of the room, it was overheard by them all.  “He means his wife was cheating on him, dummy.  Now, shut up.”

Amanda was almost pleased the boys were arguing.  It was a safe and effortless way to divert the conversation away from Scott and the tidbit of information he shared.  “Phillip, you know how I feel about calling your brother names, especially on Christmas.  Are you finished eating?”

“Sorry, Mom.  Yeah, I’m done.  Can I be excused?  I want to go play the new game that Scott gave us.”

“Can I be excused, too, Mom?” Jamie asked.

“Did you both thank Scott for your gift?”

“Yes, they did,” Scott answered for them.

“All right then, go on, both of you.  Remember to take turns…” she called out as they rushed from the room.

“I couldn’t eat another bite, either,” Curt said, folding his napkin and patting his stomach.

“It was a wonderful meal,” Scott agreed.  “You’re both very talented in the kitchen.”

Dotty was about to make a comment when Amanda shot her a look that silenced her.  “Mother, why don’t you help me clear the table?  I think the guys would like to watch the football game.”

“I’ll help you clean up, Amanda,” Scott suggested.  “Your mother probably doesn’t get to see her grandsons very often.  I’m sure she’d like to visit with them.”

“That’s a good idea, Mother,” Amanda replied; standing up and starting to collect the plates.  “You’ve been on your feet all morning.  Take a break.”

“Come on, dear,” Curt said, holding out his hand for Dotty, not allowing her a chance to balk at the idea.

Amanda cleaned the pots and pans while Scott loaded the dishwasher.  “You’re not upset with me?  I should have mentioned that I was divorced, but it never came up.  I didn’t mean to blurt it out like I did…”

“We all have our little secrets about our pasts,” she replied, thinking about the many she’d yet to share with him.

Scott closed the dishwasher, bent down slightly, and whispered into her ear.  “How many secrets?”

“A few,” she answered, blushing slightly.

“When are you going to share them with me?”

“Then they wouldn’t be secrets, would they?” she teased.  “Besides, my security clearance is higher than yours.”

“Then all your secrets involve national security?” he probed, curiously.

“I didn’t say that,” she countered playfully.

“You’re enjoying this game of cat and mouse,” Scott commented and leaned against the counter, folding his arms across his chest.  He continued, but his voice was a whisper. “I want to get to know you better, Amanda.  At times, I think you’re going to let me into your strictly ordered world, and then, other times, you push me away…”

Wiping her hands dry with the towel, she answered.  “I don’t mean to, Scott.  I like you; I enjoy your company…”

“I hear the ‘but’ coming.”

She didn’t answer him right away; instead, she chose her words carefully.  “I’ll be honest; I’m afraid of being hurt again.  I’ve made mistakes in the past and I don’t want to repeat them with you.  Call me old fashioned; I need to take things one step at a time.”

“We can take things slowly.”

“Hey, Mom,” Phillip came bounding into the kitchen, interrupting their conversation.  “When are we going to have dessert?  Grandma said she made a cream pie.”

“Phillip King, we haven’t even finished cleaning the kitchen from dinner yet,” she chided her son while she rolled her eyes.  “If you’re hungry, go snack on some nuts or the fruitcake Aunt Lillian baked.”

“Awwwh, Mom…” he whined, but knew the look his mother gave him meant she wasn’t about to back down.

Amanda watched her son leave the room and then focused back on Scott’s dark brown eyes.  Before she could say something, he did.

“You’re worried about my influence on your sons,” he ventured.

“I worry about the choices they’re going to make in the next few years.  I think being a Marine is an admirable career.”

“But not one you want your sons to make,” Scott surmised.

“I didn’t say that.  I want them to go to college and have the opportunities an education gives them.  If they choose to go into the armed forces, that’s fine.  If they choose a position in the government or private sector, that’s fine, too.  I only want them to be happy.  I don’t particularly like the thought of them going off to war.  That’s dangerous.”

“You worked for the Agency, now for the ATF, and you’re worried about them working a dangerous job!  Amanda, you’re a hypocrite.”

“I’m a mother,” she corrected as she shuffled her feet, uncomfortable with the subject at hand.  “Can we continue this conversation another time?  It’s rather intense for Christmas.”

“How about we talk about New Year’s Eve?” Scott suggested, a smile crossing his face.

“I’m really looking forward to it…” Amanda answered in a soft voice.  “It’s been a long time since I’ve gone out to celebrate New Year’s.”

***

“Three… two… one… “HAPPY NEW YEAR!” the crowd shouted and the confetti filled the air.

Scott turned to Amanda and pulled her close to him.  Their lips met and they shared a kiss while the band played ‘Auld Lang Syne’.  When Amanda pulled away, she smiled up at him, happily, and took a relaxing breath.

“Happy New Year, Amanda,” he whispered to her, brushing confetti out of her hair.

“Happy New Year, Scott,” she grinned.

After that, the band played several upbeat, rock and roll tunes and the younger officers were dancing with their wives and girlfriends.  Scott reached around Amanda’s waist and held her protectively.

The evening had been wonderful.  Scott looked handsome and proud in his dress blue uniform.  Amanda had chosen a silky, black gown with long sleeves that she hadn’t worn in years.  Its sleek line was simple, yet stylish.  From the look in Scott’s eyes when he first saw her, he definitely approved of her choice.

When the band started playing another slow song, Scott squeezed her hand gently.  “Would you care to dance?”

Amanda nodded and joined the other couples that had begun to fill the dance floor.  They danced cheek to cheek; Amanda closed her eyes and enjoyed the feeling of comfort she felt in his arms.  It had been a long time since she felt the warmth of a man’s arms around her.

They danced around the room, getting lost in the magic of the evening.  Eventually, the band started another rock and roll song; Amanda tugged on Scott’s arm.  “Can we sit this one out?”

“Sure,” he nodded.  “If you’re tired, we could leave…”

“No, I’m not tired, but I wouldn’t mind getting off my feet for a minute.  It’s been a long time since I’ve been out dancing and these are new heels.”

Scott led her back to their table.  “Would you like another drink?”

“Maybe some water.  I’m a little lightheaded,” she replied when she sat down and slipped her heels off.

He poured her a glass of water.  “Do you want something to eat?  You haven’t had much tonight.”

“No, I’m fine,” she answered then sipped some of the water. “You know, you’re a wonderful dancer, but, with all these people, it’s gotten a little warm in here.”

Scott nodded his agreement.  “Would you like to step out on the veranda?  It’s cooler out there.”

Amanda nodded, slipped her heels back on, and allowed Scott to lead her onto the veranda.   There were only a few other couples who were braving the cooler, night air.

“Oh, that feels nice,” she commented as the breeze hit her face.

“It’s not too cool for you, is it?  I don’t want you to catch a chill, either,” he asked, his arm wrapped protectively around her waist.

“When did you become such a worrier?”

“Around the same time I started falling in love with you,” he answered as he pulled her into the shadows of the veranda.  He lifted her face up to his and captured her lips the same way she had captured his heart…

***

January 10, 1991

“Hi, Jamie,” Amanda called to her younger son who was watching television when she finally arrived home.  “When did your brother get home?”

“A few minutes ago, he’s up in the shower.  Scott called you twice tonight.  He said to call him whenever you got home.  He’d wait up.”

Amanda glanced at her watch; it was after ten o’clock.  “I’ll call him as soon as I eat something.  I’m starved.  What did you have for dinner tonight?”

“I ate some leftover chicken that we had from last night.  Phillip ate at work.  There’s still some chicken left.”

Amanda rummaged through the refrigerator, nibbled on the lone chicken leg that remained, and made herself a small salad.

“Is your homework finished?” she called out to her son.

“Yes, Mom,” Jamie answered, rolling his eyes.

Amanda was about to call Scott when the phone rang.  She grabbed it quickly.  “Hello.”

“Amanda, you’re home,” Scott said with relief.

“I just got in a few minutes ago.  The Beltway Bomber was at it again tonight.”

“I’m glad you’re all right.”

“You’re not canceling our date for tomorrow night, are you?” She asked, glancing at the calendar on the wall.

“Actually, I am.  I didn’t want to tell you this over the phone, but you worked late and now it’s too late for me to drive up.  Amanda, I’m really sorry, but I’m being deployed.”

“Very funny!  You had better not cancel on me.  I’m only going to the basketball game because you wanted to go.  What would I do with two tickets for the Bullets' game?” she laughed.

“Amanda, I’m not joking.  You’ll have to take Phillip or Jamie instead.  Trust me, I’d rather go to the game,” he said somberly.  “I’m really being shipped out.”

Now, in a hushed voice, she reminded him.  “You told me you didn’t expect to be sent overseas…”

“I wasn’t expecting to, but things changed.  I can’t go into detail.”

Staring at the phone, she had the odd feeling of deja vu.  Lee left suddenly for the Middle East and couldn’t go into detail either and he never came home.  She wanted to cry.  Why Scott and why now?  Their relationship was starting to go somewhere.

“When?” she managed to force out.

“I’m grabbing a flight tomorrow morning to Camp Lajuene and will be shipping out from there over the weekend.”

“Oh my gosh!” she whispered, truly distressed at the situation.  “How long will you be gone?”

“I don’t know.  It depends on how long it takes to liberate Kuwait.  A few months, maybe longer…”

Biting her lower lip, she tried to hold a tight reign on her emotions, but the tears were welling up in her eyes.  “Oh, Scott…”

“I’ll be back before you know it.  I promise,” he answered, trying to sound upbeat, but his voice was strained.  “Amanda, I meant what I said on New Year’s Eve.  I love you.  When I get back, I plan on spending a lot more time getting to know you better.”

Tears were now flowing down her cheeks.  She wasn’t sure she’d be able to reply without sobbing.  Amanda swallowed hard.  “I’ll miss you,” she said in a hoarse whisper.

“I’ll miss you, too.  I better let you go.  I love you…” Scott repeated one more time before he hung up the phone.

Not able to control her emotions any longer, Amanda put the phone down and hurried out the back door.  She rushed to the gazebo, sat down and sobbed.  For the past three years, she hadn’t allowed another man back into her life and now that she did, she was terrified that Scott wouldn’t return.

“Mom?” the voice whispered to her in the dark.

Amanda tried to stop crying by holding her breath, but her body continued to wrack silently.  Then she felt her son's arms wrap around her.

“He’ll be back, Mom.  It’s gonna be all right,” Jamie said, trying to soothe his mother’s anguish.

Attempting to pull herself together, she hugged her son back.  Then taking a deep breath, she answered.  “I know he will, but I’m going to miss him.”

Jamie’s hold on his mother lessened.  “You’re shivering.  It’s kind of cold out here; let’s go back into the house.”

Amanda knew she wasn’t shivering from the cold, but from her emotions.  Then she noticed that Jamie was only wearing pajamas.  “Yeah, we’re both likely to catch pneumonia if we stay out here.”  She kissed her son on the cheek and they went back inside.

***

 January 16th 1991

Amanda was putting laundry into the dryer when the phone rang.  Phillip was at work, but Jamie was home and she expected that he’d pick it up.  On the third ring, she raced into the kitchen to get it.

“Hello!”

“Amanda, do you have the news on?” Dotty asked.

“No, I’m doing laundry.  I think Jamie’s watching something on the Family channel.  Why?”

“Put the news on,” Dotty commanded.

“What channel?”

“Any of the news stations, dear.  They’re all reporting it.”

“Jamie, turn on the news,” she called out to him, then asked her mother.  “What’s going on?”

“They’ve started the air war to liberate Kuwait,” Dotty answered.

“Oh my gosh!  I’ll call you later,” Amanda replied and hung up the phone and took up position in front of the television set…
 

End Part Nine
 
 

Heartstrings...
 
 

Part Ten
 

February 1991 – Baghdad, Iraq
 

Lee Stetson sat near the bars of his cell, staring down the corridor, watching the guard and listening to bombs land, off in the distance.

“They’re getting closer,” Jack commented to him.

“Not close enough,” Lee grumbled, as he played with the key he’d stolen from the sentry.  He ran it across the back of his hand, the same way Sonya Chenko had done with a coin.  He repeated the trick over, and over again, attempting to keep his fingers limber and his nerves at bay.

“How many tonight?” Jack whispered to Lee, from the edge of the bunk he was sitting on.

“There’s only one in this wing, down from three, last night,” Lee commented, keeping a careful eye on the guard; their numbers were dwindling as the bombing raids became more frequent and moved closer.  “If we lose power tonight, we’re out of here.”

“Do you think they’re on the ground yet?” Jack wondered, getting up from his bunk.

“They’ve been bombing Baghdad for over a week now.  I’ve got to think they’re on the ground, or will be - soon.  I just wish we knew when.”

The bombing continued over the next hour.  The noise was deafening at times, with sirens going off.   The sound of rockets overhead and explosions when the bombs hit, reverberated through the block walls.  Many of the prisoners were frightened by the bombing raids, but not Lee Stetson.  He welcomed them, knowing they were his ticket out.  The last couple of nights the bombs had come close to the prison, lighting up the sky, but so far, they hadn’t struck the old fortress.

Then it happened.  The building shook violently.  The lights in the corridor, between the cells, went off, struggled to come back on for a few seconds, before going off again.  Pitch darkness won out and sounds of fear penetrated the cellblock.

“Lee?” his friend called out in alarm.

“Right here,” Lee answered, calmly.  “Stay close to me, Jack.  If they don’t come back on in the next minute, we’re getting out.”

Lee pushed his way to the cell door.  Jack was right behind him.  Fire alarms were ringing nearby, and Lee could smell smoke.  Panic was now starting to rise among the inmates.  Prisoners were screaming and yelling in many languages; it sounded like the Tower of Babel.

Glad that his fingers were limber, Lee Stetson worked the key into the lock despite the darkness.  From inside the cell, it was no easy feat, but eventually, the key turned and the door pushed open.  The cell emptied quickly, the men pushing out in terror.

“Jack?” Lee called out.

“Right behind you, mate.  Which way?”

“Towards the clinic,” he answered in a low voice, stuffing the key into the lock of the cell next to theirs and opening the door.  The bedlam that resulted as prisoners flooded out of their cells would be more than a match for the solitary guard.  “We can grab a couple of lab coats in the clinic.  They might come in handy and I know my way out from there.  There used to be only one guard, if he’s even there.”

Lee’s instincts had been right.  The medical staff at the prison clinic was busy treating casualties from the bombing.  Lee and Jack donned lab coats, easily blending into the surrounding chaos.   Checking the door, which the doctors used to exit the prison, he found it unlocked.   Lee inspected it for guards, and it was clear.

“Come on, let’s go.”

Jack smiled brightly.  “I’m with you.”

The two men walked out of the prison in the pandemonium that reigned.  Looking behind them, they saw the damage the bomb had done.  The bombing campaign persisted while Lee and Jack’s pace increased from a fast walk, to a full out run, until they were far away from the compound.

When the first light of morning broke, Lee and Jack were tired, hungry, and filthy.  After ditching their lab coats and prison garb for something less conspicuous, they spent most of the day scrounging for food.  The adrenaline rush from the previous night's activity had long since abated and exhaustion overcame them both.  When night fell, they found an abandoned building and took cover.  Both men fell asleep instantly.

The nightly bomb blasts woke them hours later, but neither of them knew what time it was.  For the first time since the bombing started, weeks ago, Lee Stetson was scared.  Being in Baghdad was dangerous; they needed to leave the city – permanently.

“We need to go south, towards Saudi Arabia,” Lee Stetson said to his buddy.

“And how exactly do you plan to do that?” Jack Bainbridge questioned.

“We’ll walk.  The nights are cool enough.  Come on!” Lee reached his hand down to help his friend off the floor.

“You’ve got to be kidding?  It’ll take a month to get there on foot,” his British friend complained.

“You want to wait around here until a bomb plasters you to hell and back?” Lee argued hotly.  “If we can grab a jeep or hitch a ride, I’m all for it, but the sooner we leave this place the better.  Come on!”

The two men walked at night and rested during the heat of the day.  There were other people leaving Baghdad for the safety of the outlying cities.  Their journey would be a long one, but the farther they got from Baghdad, the safer Lee Stetson felt.  On their third afternoon of freedom, came the reprieve his blistered feet were aching for.  The United States Marine Corp troops were on the ground, heading towards Baghdad.

“Who’s in charge?” Lee shouted as the Marines approached.

“Who asking?” the Private challenged, giving both men the once over.

Lee wasn’t surprised by the soldiers’ wariness, given their disheveled appearance.  “Lee Stetson, I’m an American.”

“What the hell are you doing in Iraq with a war on?”

Lee ran his hand through his long, matted hair.  “I’m trying to get out.  Is there someone I can speak with?”

“Colonel Lockhart,” the Private answered and pointed to jeep.

Lee hurried towards the jeep, although there was no rush; the road was crowded with civilians who were still fleeing for safety.

Flagging down the jeep, Lee saw an older man, sitting in the front passenger seat; he called out.  “Colonel Lockhart?”

“Yes.  Who are you?” the Colonel questioned.

“Lee Stetson.  I’m an American.”

“What the hell are you doing here?”

Lee chuckled; the Private had just asked them the same question.  “We’re trying to get out of the country.  Any chance we can hitch a ride south?”

“Sorry, son, we’re heading north, into Baghdad.  If you continue down the road, you’ll see our base camp.  Tell them I sent you and they’ll be able to make arrangements.”

“Thank you, Sir,” Lee nodded, optimistic now that he knew the Marines were on the ground.  There was no way they were going back to Baghdad; he was going home.

By nightfall, Lee and Jack could see the lights of the base camp off in the distance.  Their pace picked up significantly, despite their blistered feet and empty stomachs.  Within an hour, they were standing at the front gate.  The sentry blocked their entrance into the camp.

“I’m Lee Stetson, an American agent; this is Jack Bainbridge, from England.  We’re trying to get out of the country.  Colonel Lockhart sent us.  He said someone could arrange transportation for us, back to Saudi,” Lee explained to the Private.

The Private radioed his superior and waited for someone to come and escort them into the camp.  Lee was exhausted from constantly being on the move for days without sufficient food to eat or water to drink.  He shuffled from one foot to the other, before finally sitting in the dusty sand.  He only needed to look at how terrible Jack appeared, to know, he, too, looked like hell.  They waited what seemed like an hour before a Corporal presented himself.

“Follow me,” the young man commanded.

Lee and Jack trod wearily behind the man, hoping at last, they’d be safe, warm, and soon would be on their way home.  They were separated before being questioned.  Lee explained that he was working for the CIA when he had been shot, before being imprisoned for the last three years.  At times, he wasn’t sure if the officer believed a word he was saying.  Finally, he was given a meal, a shower, and clean clothes before being escorted to a tent where he met up with Jack Bainbridge.

“Mate, I’ve been worried about you,” Jack called out to him when he entered the tent.  “That shower felt wonderful, even if the water wasn’t hot.”

Lee nodded.  “It did.  You OK?”

“Better than I’ve been in a long while and I owe it all to you,” Jack replied, slapping his friend on the back.

“You got me through some tough times, Jack.”

“They’re going to transfer me to a British Army unit.  I’m not sure of the logistics, but I’ll be home in a week or two.”

“Home…” Lee said wistfully, closing his eyes for a few moments and then smiling.  “There were times I didn’t think I’d ever get out of that damned prison alive.”

“You’ll be back in Amanda’s arms soon, my friend.  Real soon.”

“Amanda,” Lee whispered her name and his heart raced at the thought of seeing her soon.

“I can’t wait to see my daughter,” Jack added.  “No more overseas assignments for me.  I intend to spend some time getting to know her before she’s all grown up.”

Lee grinned happily for his friend and then sat down on the cot across from Jack.  “I never thought I’d look forward to sleeping on one of these, but after where we’ve been sleeping these past few years, this feels like heaven.”

“See you in the morning,” Jack yawned.

Lee stretched out on his cot and pulled the blanket over his body.  When his head hit the pillow and he closed his eyes, he immediately fell asleep.

The next day, Lee and Jack were interrupted while they ate their lunch.  “John Bainbridge?” a Private called out.

“Yes?” Jack answered with a wave.

“You’re being transferred this afternoon, Sir.  There’s a British mail truck heading south to Saudi,” the soldier explained.  “They’re waiting for you at the gate.”

“I guess this is goodbye, Jack,” Lee said, pleased for his buddy.

Jack extended his hand.  “We’ll meet again someday, my friend.  Next time you’re in England, make sure you give me a call.  Your drinks are on me.”

“I’m going to hold you to that, Jack,” Lee replied, shaking the man’s hand, firmly.  “Make sure you give Catherine a large bouquet of flowers for me.  Have a safe trip home.”

“I will.  Safe journey, my friend,” Jack answered, pulling Lee into a brief hug before he hurried off with the soldier.

Lee Stetson’s departure wouldn’t be arranged as quickly.  Although he was well fed and showered regularly, arrangements for him, would take longer.

Several days later, a cheer raced through the camp.  Lee stepped out of his tent to see the Marines celebrating.

“What happened?” Lee asked a Marine who was running past his tent.

“The war is over!  The Iraqis formally accepted a cease fire.”

“What day is it?” Lee asked, having lost track of time in prison.

The Marine gave Lee an odd look, but answered him.  “It’s March third,” the Marine explained, then hurried toward his buddies.

“Thanks,” Lee called out and shook his head.  It might have been a short war for the Marines, but to him, it had been a lifetime.

A few days later, Lee Stetson was transferred to an Army medical unit, heading south.  It was a slow ride back to the Army base in Riyadh in the medical caravan.  When he arrived there, it was charged with activity.  Unfortunately, his arrival was not expected and he found himself explaining to the General in command, how he’d ended up in Iraq, yet again.

“General Roth, my name is Lee Stetson.  I’m an American agent who was working undercover for the CIA.”

“I’ll contact the CIA and have you transferred there,” the General quickly interrupted and left the room before Lee could explain fully.

Lee paced the room and waited.  The General didn’t return for several hours.  When he ultimately returned, the news didn’t surprise Lee.

“I finally got a line into the CIA.  They don’t have anyone named Lee Stetson working for them.”

Lee nodded at the information.  “Yes, sir, I’m not surprised.  I’m not a CIA agent; I work for the Agency, in DC.  I was only on assignment for the CIA. They had me working under the pseudonym, ‘Steadman’.”

“Mr. Stetson, I’ll see what I can do for you, but it’s Saturday and it’ll be difficult to find someone on the weekend to corroborate what you’ve told me.  My first priority is to mop up this war and get my boys home.”

Lee was on the edge of losing it.  “Damn it, General, I’ve been trying to get home for three years now.  Can I at least have access to a phone to call my wife?”

“Mr. Stetson, or Steadman, or whoever you are, I’ve got several thousand men who want to call their wives, too.  The war may technically be over, but there’s still a lot of work to do.  I’m sorry for your predicament, but I don’t have enough phones for everyone.  Get yourself a hot meal, a shower, and a haircut.   You can stay in the VIP quarters, for now.  I’ll contact you as soon as I have some answers.”

Lee Stetson was frustrated by the General’s lack of motivation to return him to the USA.  Unfortunately, he wasn’t in any position to bicker with him.  It would only slow things down.  A Corporal escorted him around the camp; first to the mess hall and then to the barber.  He was more than happy to get a military style haircut and a close shave, ridding himself of the long hair, beard, and mustache he’d grown in prison.  A quick glance in the mirror and he almost recognized his reflection.  His last stop was the VIP quarters.  Although his room was private and comfortable, it wasn’t home.  He wanted to be back in Virginia, more than anything.  Thoughts of being reunited with Amanda filled his dreams that night:  her hand in his, his lips pressing firmly against hers, his hands freely roaming her soft skin, but when he awoke the next morning, he was still alone and far from home.

The weekend passed and Lee was hopeful for some answers on Monday, but there were none.  Tuesday morning, he demanded to see the General again.  Lee waited outside of General Roth’s office most of the day before he was finally permitted to see him.

“Mr. Stetson, I still haven’t heard back from the CIA.  Until I have orders, I’m sorry, but there’s nothing I can do.”

Lee paced in the office.  “Have you tried calling the Agency back in DC?  William Melrose is my supervisor.  He can corroborate who I am and why I’m here.  I really want to go home.  I haven’t seen my wife in three years, General.”

“Mr. Stetson, I sympathize with your predicament, but at least you’re safe and out of Iraq.  For the moment, communications back to the US are severely restricted – official business only.  There’s a lot going on.  Why don’t you write your wife a letter and I’ll see to it that it gets mailed out.”

Lee glared at the man.  He knew how slow mail from overseas was, especially from an outlying military post.  “I plan on being home before it gets delivered!” Lee balked angrily.

“Suit yourself, Mr. Stetson, but my hands are tied.”

“I flew over here in a C-140 transport plane.  You must have something going back stateside.  I don’t care what or where!”

“You have no passport, no ID, and I can’t even confirm that you are, who you say you are.  I can’t allow you to leave the base until I have instructions from the CIA, or some other government authority.  I have procedures to follow.”

“How about calling the American Embassy? They can make arrangements for me…”

“My secretary has tried getting through to the Embassy, and under normal circumstances, that would be ideal.  The problem is the Embassy is flooded with refugees from Kuwait, now attempting to return home, and refugees from Iraq fleeing the war.  The whole town is turned upside down.”

“Can I at least call the Embassy?” Lee pleaded.

“If you can get through to the Embassy, that’ll be fine.  I’ll see to it that my secretary gives you the number.  Until then, I’m responsible for your whereabouts and you can’t leave the base.”

Heartened, that he now had some control, as minimal as it was, he stood up and prepared to leave, extending his hand to the general.  He was hopeful that he’d be able to get home sometime soon.  “Thank you, Sir.”

End Part Ten
 
 
 
 
 
 

Heartstrings...
 

Part Eleven
 

Arlington VA
 

Since the war started, that night in January, Amanda had paid keen attention to the news on the radio, television, and in the newspaper.   A brief letter from Scott arrived towards the end of February, about the same time that the Kuwaiti resistance leaders regained control of their capital.   There was little information in the letter to tell her how he really was, or what he was doing.  All she knew for sure was that he was alive and that gave her some comfort.  He signed it, ‘Love, Scott’.

When the news came that the war was over on March third, Amanda breathed a sigh of relief knowing Scott would return to Virginia, but when, still remained a big question.  Would he be one of the first to return or the last?

The doorbell rang late one afternoon the following week.  Amanda had only been home from work for a few minutes.  Hurrying to the door, she opened it and stared out in disbelief.

“Oh my gosh!  You’re back!” she shouted joyfully.  She reached out and hugged Scott enthusiastically.  It was only then, that she noticed the yellow lab, excitedly wagging his tail at Scott’s feet.  His front paw was bandaged and the fur around his face and ear had been burned.  Releasing her hold on Scott, she bent down and carefully hugged her dog.  “What happened, fella?  Are you all right?  Is he all right?   When did you get home?”

Scott chuckled at her rapid-fire questions.  “Can we come in and I’ll try to answer all your questions?”

“Of course,” she nodded, reaching out for his hand.  “Can Luke walk?”

“He’s managing,” Scott responded, while they walked into the house, hand in hand, and settled on the family room sofa.

“Do you want something to drink or eat?  I haven’t started dinner yet, but you’ll stay, won’t you?  The boys went to the mall.  I was planning on tacos when they got back.”

“I’d love to stay for dinner,” he answered, and then he pulled her into his arms and kissed her.

Amanda closed her eyes and allowed him to envelop her in his strong arms.  She was so happy that he was safe.  She nuzzled into his chest. “I’ve missed you.  I’ve been so worried about you.”

“I never saw any real action.  Luke did.  He saved a lot of lives over there, Amanda.”

”What happened?” nodding towards Luke, wondering about his injuries.

“He was in the barracks in Saudi Arabia when that Iraqi SCUD missile hit.”

“The one that killed all those soldiers?” she gasped, petting the dog’s back.

He nodded.  “He caught some shrapnel in his front leg, and some burns on his face, and nose.  Unfortunately, he won’t work again, but I knew you’d want him back.”

“Absolutely,” she replied.  “I’m glad I have you both back!”

“Things went well over there, although it’ll take some time to extinguish the fires in the oil fields.  That’s an environmental disaster.”

“Are you all right?” Amanda asked, observing him intently.

“I’m fine,” he responded, pulling her into an embrace and hugging her tightly.  Amanda kissed him and for a few minutes, they enjoyed caressing each other.

The intimate moment didn’t last.  The front door flew open, signaling the boys were home.  Amanda put some space between her and Scott when they came into the room.  Immediately, the boys began to flood Scott with questions about the war and Luke.

“I think I’ll go start dinner,” Amanda commented, getting up and going into the kitchen.  She watched contentedly, the interaction between Scott and the boys as he told them about the war.

Busy grating cheese and chopping onions, Amanda allowed her mind to wander.  It was great to have Scott back, but her thoughts turned to Lee.  The boys never did get to hear any of Lee’s crazy tales; most of his involved national security.  Then again, the boys never knew that Lee was a spy.  Tears flooded her eyes.

“Hey, no crying,” Scott whispered in her ear, now standing right beside her.  “Today’s a day to celebrate.”

“They’re tears of joy,” she lied, wiping them away.

He kissed her cheek.  “How can I help?”

“Wouldn’t you prefer to relax?”

“I’d prefer to spend time with you.”

“We will; after dinner.  It’s almost ready.  You could grab some plates and set the table.”

The conversation was casual during dinner.  Amanda was happy that both Scott and Luke had returned.  The boys were excited that Luke could now be treated as a pet.  Unfortunately, the relaxing meal ended when the phone rang.

“I’ll get it, Mom,” Jamie said, hurrying to the phone.  “Sandy was going to call me after dinner.”

“Then tell her you’ll call her back after dinner,” Amanda scolded.

A few seconds later, Jamie yelled.  “Mom, it’s for you.”

“Don’t tell me you’re on call tonight?” Scott grumbled; a frustrated look on his face.

Amanda nodded and hurried to pick up the phone.  A few minutes later, she came back into the room.  “Boys, you’ll have to clean up the kitchen.  Scott, I’m really sorry, but apparently, the Beltway Bomber is back.  I don’t know what time I’ll be home.”

“I’ll call you tomorrow,” he replied.

Amanda changed into her work clothes, called for Monty, harnessed him up, and hurried out the door.

***

They spoke on the phone every night that week, like two teenagers.  Scott invited Amanda to dinner that Saturday, for an early St. Patrick’s Day celebration.  She arrived at his house wearing a dark green dress that she’d bought expecting to go out for dinner.

“You look beautiful tonight,” he said, giving her a quick kiss when he answered the door.

“It smells wonderful in here.  I thought we were going out.  I didn’t know you could cook,” she grinned in surprise.

“I don’t cook much, but my Irish mother taught me how to cook corned beef and cabbage.  It was one of dad’s favorite meals,” he boasted.  “My other specialty is macaroni and cheese.”

Amanda laughed.  “I like that, too!”

“Now, you tell me!” he winked.  “Dinner will be ready in a couple of minutes.  Would you like a beer or would you prefer something else?”

“A beer would be fine,” she answered, following him into the kitchen.  “Can I help?”

“You could light the candles on the table for me.  The matches are over there,” he nodded, getting her a beer and pouring it into a glass.  “Then have a seat at the table.”

Amanda lit the two tapered candles that Scott had set out and then sat down, waiting for Scott to join her.  A few minutes later, he came in with dinner, putting one plate in front of Amanda, then the other, at his setting.

“A toast,” he said, after sitting down.  Raising his glass, he smiled over at her.  “To new beginnings…”

“To new beginnings...”

They drank to the toast, and then Amanda tasted the meal and was surprised at how delicious it was.  “Oh my gosh, you really can cook!”

He chuckled.  “It was my mother’s recipe.  She taught me how to cook before I went off to college.  I think she was afraid I’d starve.”

“If this recipe is any indication on her abilities, she must be a wonderful cook?”

“She was,” he nodded.  “Unfortunately, she died two years ago of a heart attack.”

“I’m sorry, Scott.  Is your father still alive?”

“No, dad died when I was in high school of lung cancer.  He smoked two packs a day.  Which is one of the reasons I don’t smoke; he was only 49 when he died.”

“That’s a shame.”

“I’ve met your mother, is your father still alive?” Scott asked.

“No, my dad died when I was in high school, too.  He had a heart attack,” Amanda explained.  “It was rather sudden; came as a big shock to my mother and myself.”

“You’re an only child?”

“Yeah, how about you?”

“I’ve got three sisters, two of which still live in Colorado; the other one lives in Utah.  We used to be close, but now that mom’s gone, I haven’t seen them in a while.”

“Have you talked to them since you got home?  Let them know you’re all right.”

“Yeah, I called them the night I brought Luke back to your place.  How did things go that night with the Bomber?  Are they any closer to catching the guy yet?” Scott probed.

“The Beltway Bomber is still on the loose, but it had been quiet for almost two months.  The call I went on ended up being a false alarm.  From the look of the bomb in question, it was one of the copycats,” she explained.

“I’m not sure I like you being close enough to know the difference.”

“Don’t worry, when Monty signals it’s the real deal, don’t get in my way… I’m so out of there!” she laughed.

The conversation at dinner continued companionably; they shared stories and anecdotes of their lives.  When they finished eating, Amanda helped him clear the table and insisted on loading the dishwasher.  Scott put the pans in the sink to soak and then reached for her hand.

“My kitchen is clean enough for now.  Let’s sit down and relax?” he suggested, tugging gently on her arm and leading the way into the living room.  Sitting next to her on the sofa, he put his arm around her shoulder.

“You look really beautiful in that dress,” he said, as he gently ran his other hand up the sleeve, to her chin and leaned in for a kiss.  Their lips met and they eagerly kissed each other.  “I missed you so much when I was overseas, Amanda.  I couldn’t wait to get back.”

She leaned her head onto his shoulder.  “I missed you, too.  I was glad when I got your letter, but I wasn’t sure how truthful you were being; that you were safe.”

“I really was safe,” he reassured her.

Amanda kissed him, her lips lingering on his.  “I’m so happy that you’re home.”

Scott returned her kiss and pulled her closer to him; his hands explored her tenderly.

Amanda’s body tingled with excitement.  She was enjoying the sensations that she hadn’t felt in so long.  Her hands began to discover his muscular body.  Her lips broke from his and she nuzzled her cheek against his chin, being tickled by his whiskers.  She breathed in the scent of his cologne from his neck and relaxed in his warm embrace, allowing his hands to roam her body, freely.

“Amanda,” Scott whispered in his deep baritone voice, filled with desire.  “I want to make love to you tonight…”

For a moment, her body froze.  Her heart raced; her face flushed.  She pushed him away.  She cared deeply for Scott, but was she ready for this next step, or were they moving too fast?  Her eyes met his and she saw the puzzled look on Scott’s face.  Finally, she got to her feet and put some distance between them.

“I’m sorry, Scott,” she faltered.

He got up and started to walk towards her, but she continued to back away.  Scott stopped.  “Amanda, if you don’t want to tonight, it’s... it’s OK.  The way you reacted…I assumed…”

Taking a deep breath, she didn’t know what to say.  “Scott, I thought I could.  I want to; it’s … it’s complicated.”

“You told me that on our first date,” he reminded her, still not sure what was wrong.  “What’s so complicated?”

“My life…my past.”  She washed her hand across her face anxiously, knowing she was making absolutely no sense to the man standing across the room from her.

Now, Scott stepped back and turned away from her.  “There’s someone else in your life; someone from work?”

“Oh my gosh, no!” she gasped at the idea.  Having one man in her life was challenging enough with her family and work.  Slowly, she walked back to the couch, and sat down.  She patted the sofa, inviting him to join her as she looked at him nervously, not knowing what to say.

Scott broke the silence in the room.  “I love you, Amanda, you know that.  Your actions suggest that you want me, as much as I want you, but something always happens; your sons come into the room, the phone rings and you have to run out.  Up to now, I thought it’s been bad luck, but I’m starting to wonder if there’s more to it…” he sat back on the couch, but on the end, allowing her space.  “If I’m moving too fast for you, tell me.  I’ll try to be more patient, but I know what I want.  I want you, but you’re sending me mixed messages.”

“You’re right; I am sending you mixed messages.  I didn’t mean to pull away.  It’s been a long while since I’ve been in a serious relationship.  After my partner died, I was lost…” She stopped; not sure she could explain her relationship with Lee Stetson.  Her family didn’t know they’d been married.  How could she explain it to a man she cared deeply for and who loved her?

“You were more than partners?  You were… lovers,” Scott surmised.

Amanda nodded silently.  Finally, in a voice filled with emotions she answered him.  “Lee and I were more than lovers…”

“That explains a lot,” he replied with a frustrated voice as he rubbed his chin.  He stood up, walking towards the fireplace, studying the clock that rested on the mantel.  Turning around, he looked at her and asked, “How many men have you dated since Lee died?”

“You’re the first.”

“I should have guessed.”  He closed his eyes for a moment.  Taking a long breath, he continued.  “Amanda, I want to be the last.  When I was over in Saudi, I couldn’t get you out of my head.  I want to spend the rest of my life with you, but I wonder if I can ever measure up…”

She smiled at him.  In a soft voice, she answered.  “You’re everything I’d want in a man.  You’re intelligent, handsome, and fun to be around.  You make me laugh and feel special.”

“I’m waiting for the ‘but’.”

“You’re a Marine.  You could be transferred anywhere in the world, on a moment’s notice,” she reminded him.  “Damn it, Scott, you were deployed two months ago!”

“Is the real problem that I’m a Marine, who can be sent anywhere, at a moment’s notice or that you’re afraid to allow yourself to really love me, because you might lose me, like you lost Lee?” Scott asked her pointblank and stared at her, wanting an answer.

She felt like the wind had been knocked out of her.  He was so close to the truth, it was too painful to acknowledge.  Tears flooded her eyes and she struggled to keep them from falling.   “I miss him,” she choked out, turning away from Scott.

“I can see that, but don’t you think it’s time to let him go?” he asked softly.  His words were not harsh, but tender and loving.  “If you don’t let go of the past, we won’t have a chance at a future.  Are you willing to take a chance, Amanda?”

The room was bathed in silence for what felt like an eternity.  Hadn’t her mother warned her to let Lee go and to take chances with life?  Sage advice, but was she ready and was Scott the right man?

“It’s getting late,” Amanda forced out, despite the clock on the mantel, telling it was barely nine o’clock.  She got up and retrieved her purse, needing time, and space to think about what he’d asked.  “I’d better get going.”

Scott appeared disappointed; however, he didn’t argue.  He walked her to the door.  “Drive safely,” he whispered and kissed her on the cheek before he let her leave.

****

The following week was a busy one.  The Beltway Bomber and several copycats were keeping the ATF busy around town.  Amanda and Monty worked late almost every night.  Thursday afternoon, she got home from work to find her ex-husband waiting to talk to her.

“Hi, Joe, what’s up?” she asked as they walked into the house.

“Amanda, I have to go over to England on business,” Joe King explained to his ex-wife.

“When are you leaving?”

“On Monday, the 25th.”

“Wow, that soon!”

“Yeah, I’ve got some meetings in London I need to attend.  I’ve checked the boys’ school schedule; their last day before the Easter break is Thursday, the 28th.  What would you say if they spent the week with me, over there?  My trip won’t be all meetings.  Next year, Philip will be in college.  It’ll be my last chance to spend some quality time with them both.”

“I’d say that I’m jealous I can’t come,” she smiled.

“I checked flights already.  They can leave on Thursday evening from Dulles and I’ll pick them up at the airport.”

“No problem, Joe, I’m sure it’ll be a vacation to remember.”

“Great.  I’ll make the reservations.  I’ll call you with the details,” Joe said before he left.

Amanda watched as her ex-husband drove off, suddenly feeling very alone.  Joe was right.  Phillip would be in college in September; Jamie, soon after that.  Sure, she had Luke and Monty for companionship, but the nights were long and lonely.  The thought of being all alone, with nobody to share her life with, made her feel empty.  The memory of the other night, having Scott’s arms around her, to comfort her, and love her, made her wistful…

Trying to push the thoughts from her mind, she went into kitchen and started dinner.  When she opened the pantry, a box of macaroni and cheese was staring her in the face.  She picked up the box and stared at it for the longest time.

“Is everything all right, Mom?” Jamie asked when he came into the room.

“Jamie, I’m going out for a while,” she told her son.  “Dinner’s on the stove.  You just need to fix yourself a plate.  Could you feed the dogs for me?”

“Sure, Mom,” Jamie shrugged, “but where are you going?”

“To take a chance,” she answered.  Grabbing the box of macaroni and cheese and bringing it with her, she rushed out the door.

Driving south on the crowded interstate, Amanda finally knew the answer to the question that Scott had asked her last Saturday.  Her life was OK, but as Lee Stetson had told her years before, ‘OK wasn’t good enough for her’.  She wanted more.  In the afternoon traffic, the ride seemed to take forever, but she eventually arrived at the exit for Scott’s house.

Pulling up to his house a few minutes later, she clutched the box of macaroni and cheese protectively, and hurried up the front walk, ringing the bell twice, anxious to see him.

“Amanda!” Scott said with surprise, obviously not expecting her.

"Did you eat yet?" she asked, holding up the box of macaroni and cheese.  “I brought dinner.”

He chuckled.  “No, I only got home a few minutes ago.”

“Can I come in?” she asked tentatively, suddenly wondering if she was welcome.

“Yeah, sure,” he shrugged, stepping aside and allowing her to come in.  “I’m actually surprised to see you.  I hadn’t heard from you all week…”

“I’m sorry.  I should have called, but it’s been a busy week…” Amanda hesitated for a moment, shaking her head, silently scolding herself.  “That’s a lousy excuse.  I should have made the time to call you.”

“Yeah, you should have.  Why are you here?” he asked, his voice somewhat distant.

“You asked me last week, if I was willing to take a chance.  When you asked me, I didn’t have an answer for you.”

“But you do now?” he questioned, guardedly.

“Yes, I do,” she answered, glancing up into his dark eyes.  “My past is a very big part of me, Lee, our relationship together, but it’s just that - the past.  I’ll always love Lee, and the time we had together, but…” she paused for a moment, before she could finished her thought.  “It’s time for me to move on with my life.  I want more out of the future than work.  I want to share it with you… if you still want me.”

A smile grew across his face.  “I’m in love with you, Amanda King.  I didn’t plan on falling in love, but I did.  It’s not something I can turn on and off.”

She reached up with her hands, and brought his face close to hers and kissed him.  “I’m sorry it took so long to give you an answer…”

“It doesn’t matter now.  Wait right here,” he requested before disappearing from the living room for only a few moments.  On his return, he carried a small, velvety box.

“Oh my gosh!” Amanda gasped; her eyes grew wide and she glanced up into his.

“I love you, Amanda,” he whispered, his voice chock full of emotion, when he opened the box. “I hope you’ll accept this as a token of my love.  Will you marry me?”

She nodded silently as he gazed into her eyes.

Scott carefully removed the diamond solitaire and reached for her hand, slipping it on her finger, delicately. He brought her hand to his lips and kissed the back of it.  He trailed kisses up her arm, to her neck and finally seized her lips.  He enveloped her into his strong arms and they kissed passionately.

Amanda enjoyed the warmth and security she felt, when he held her in his arms.  When she broke off their kiss, they both had to catch their breath.  Caressing his face tenderly with her hand, she made one simple request.  “Make love to me, Scott.”

“Amanda, I didn’t ask you to marry me to get you into my bed.  I can wait until you’re ready.”

“I am ready.”

“You’re sure?” he questioned one more time.

She nodded.  “I’m sure.”

“You’re not on call tonight, are you?” he asked with a raised brow.

She chuckled.  “No.  There will be no distractions tonight.  I promise.”

Holding her hand tenderly in his, he tugged on it gently and led her into his bedroom.  Amanda kicked off her shoes, while Scott turned down the bed.  He looked at her and beamed, happily.

“I’m a lucky man,” he whispered and he slipped his arms around her trim waist, pulling her towards him possessively.  His hand gently stroked her cheek before he started to kiss her again.

Amanda savored the feel of his lips on hers, his chin and cheeks rubbed against her face and his kisses worked their way down to her neck.  Her body quivered with emotion as her hands reached around his neck, bringing their bodies closer together.

He paused for a moment, his hand again caressing her face before he started to work the top button of her blouse.  He stopped for a brief moment, glancing into her eyes to make sure she hadn’t changed her mind.  She nodded to him and he continued onto the next one.

Amanda followed his lead and began to unbutton his shirt.  Eager to see his bare, muscular body, she pulled his shirt from his pants, hurrying to unbutton it.  Once all his buttons were unfastened, he shrugged it to the floor, while her hand explored his chest, running her fingers through his chest hair.  She nuzzled against him, placing tiny kisses on his chest.

For a few more moments, they were lost in the foreplay of lovemaking.  The shrill call from the phone ringing, quelled the ambiance.

Pulling away from her touch, he looked at the phone, annoyed.  “You said you weren’t on call.”

“I’m not.  Nobody knows I’m here,” she answered firmly, equally exasperated at the untimely intrusion.

He hurried to the phone and picked it up, bellowing into it.  “Hello.”  In an instant, his posture assumed that of attention.  The conversation was one sided and short.  “Yes, Sir.”  “No, Colonel.”  “I’ll see to it right away, Sir.”  Then he hung up the phone.

“Something wrong?”

“Amanda, I’m terribly sorry,” he turned towards her, but his smile was gone.  The expectant lover was replaced by a highly trained, Marine Major.  He stepped back.  “I’ve got to go back to the base.  There’s a problem at the kennel.”

Scott picked up his shirt and hastily threw it back on, buttoning the buttons and tucking it back into his pants.

“Do you want me to wait?”

He paused for a few seconds; desire in his eyes, and a bulge, still blazing through his pants.  “Can you stay the night?” he asked.

She shook her head.  “I can’t.  I’ve got to work tomorrow and the boys are at home…”

He rubbed his temple.  “We received a shipment of dogs earlier today for the next training class and somehow, they’ve gotten loose.  Go on home.  I don’t know how long it’ll take.”

“I could help…” she offered.  “I’m pretty good with dogs.”

He smiled.  “As much as I appreciate the offer, you’d distract me more than you’d help and I don’t think the Colonel would approve.”

She blushed slightly, but nodded her head.  “Do you have plans for the weekend?”

“Unfortunately, yes.  I need to test the dogs that just came in and see what skill level they’re at.  That’s going to take most of the weekend and my next class starts Monday.”

“The boys are going to spend a week in England with Joe.  They’re leaving next Thursday night.  I’ll be alone for a whole week.”

“Somehow, I don’t think you’ll be as alone, as you think.”

“My place or yours?” she asked.

“My place, next Saturday.  I’m all yours.”

“I’ll see you then.  Now, you better get out of here. I’ll lock up on my way out.”

Scott shoved his feet back into his shoes, grabbed his wallet and keys off his bureau, and paused for only a second to give her one last kiss.  “I love you.”
 

End Part Eleven

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