To Hope Anew - Part Two

Living the Promise

by Rosa N. Tadeo

"Afterwards, when we have slept, paradise-comaed, and woken, we lie a long time looking at each other. I do not know what he sees, but I see eyes of surpassing tenderness and calm, a calm like the dignity of matter. I love the open ocean blue-grey-green of his iris, I love the curve of it against the white, that curve the sight of what has caused me to come, when he's quite still, deep inside me . . .

"I don't know where he got his kindness without self-regard, almost without self, and yet he chose one woman, instead of the others . . . Sometimes he is slightly smiling, but mostly he just gazes at me gazing, his entire face lit. I love to see it change if I cry -- there is no worry, no pity, a graver radiance . . .

"I am so lucky that I can know him. This is the only way to know him. I am the only one who knows him.

"When I wake again, he is still looking at me, as if he is eternal. For an hour we wake and doze, and slowly I know that though we are sated, though we are hardly touching, this is the coming the other coming brought us to the edge of -- we are entering, deeper and deeper, gaze by gaze, this place beyond the other places, beyond the body itself, we are making love."

-- The Knowing -- by Sharon Olds

Chapter One

Carefully, Vincent reached down and pulled the covers up higherover Diana's left shoulder against the usual early morning chill inthe tunnels. She nestled her head a bit more closely to his neck inresponse, but did not awaken. Vincent rested a kiss onto her hair andclosed his eyes again in peaceful, wondrous contemplation.

These moments had become his favorite time of day, the quiet,still dreamy hours before the constraints of daily life intruded everinsistently, the moments when he could bless heaven and touch to themiracles in his life.

As always, he first reached his heart out to the sweet spirit thatwas his son within him.

Jacob lay asleep in his new "big boy's" bed in the little alcoveof their chamber, the child's even breathing and serene heart botheasily taken note of by his father.

A month had already passed since Diana and he had safely guidedthe little child through the momentous experience of giving up hiscrib. Vincent's heart warmed at the thought of Jacob's eager andwilling acceptance of Diana's presence in his daily life, even atsuch a challenging occasion.

When Zack had officially moved out of the boys' dormitory and intothe pipe chamber as Pascal's assistant, the bed that had been freedup had been moved into the alcove with great ceremony for Jacob'suse, at Diana's direction. It had only taken four or five nights forthe brave-spirited little boy to familiarize himself to the newarrangement, but on the first night, not even the welcome presence ofhis beloved bunny was enough to comfort the child through thetransition.

Vincent had come awake from an unaccustomed deep sleep to thedisquieting greeting of Jacob's tears and fright in his bonded heart.Yet, when he came to his feet quickly in the semi-darkened chamber toreach the boy, he realized, with a tender comfort, that his momentarypanic was uncalled for.

Looking around the screen partition, Vincent was greeted with thesweet sight of Diana, nestling close to the child in his new smallbed, arms enveloping him dearly.

"I wasn't sure where I was, father," came the still shaky littlevoice in explanation. Vincent bent to kiss the child on his cheek,then settled closer within reach the little bunny who was leaningprecariously over the edge of the unsided bed.

"You are still safe, here with us, Jacob."

"I know that now. You and Mama are near." A small, cool handpressed up against Diana's soft cheek.

Vincent let the grateful wonder in his heart reach out to both hischild and his wife. Then he eased his body down to the stone floor ofthe room and rested against the side of the bed, one unearthly handclasping a little one always willing to be sheltered.

Diana began to sing softly, brushing the golden amber curls of heryoung son protectively. It was Jacob's favorite lullaby -- "Puff theMagic Dragon" -- and a belovedly new and blessed ritual that unitedthe little boy's heart totally to his new mother's. What a gift tohim, the sensitive child understood, to have now beside him a likeheart that could understand the wonder of strings and sealing wax ,and the uncertain anxiousness of things unknown.

With gentle kindness, the sweet generosity of a beloved heart, thechild's pain had been turned to comfort.

As Vincent's own had.

The mythic protector of an underground haven a magical dragonhimself might have visited, opened his eyes again, and let his gazeslip with lingering tenderness over the figure of his wife lyingclose beside him. That single reality, holding his enchantingsoulmate in his arms as she slept, was a miracle of wonder and hopein itself, the new truth of lives entwined and sanctified.

It had taken Diana and him three years to find the courage toreach out to one another at last in need, and acknowledge the simple,profound certainty that neither of them could continue in theirpain-riddled lives without the other's merciful, sustainingpresence.

It had taken only three months for them to fashion a generous,gifting and supporting family life together.

Strange, how natural it all seemed, as though it had always beenthere for them to embrace. But, Vincent knew his once again hopeful,believing heart had only broken free of its anguishing bondagebecause of the stubborn, selfless love he now cradled in hisarms.

Gently, so as not to disturb her, Vincent set his own hand overDiana's where it rested on his chest . . . holding his heart in place. . . he had told her one morning. She had smiled then, a shy andsweet girl's smile, as though he had just paid her her first woman'scompliment instead of voicing a compelling truth not to bedenied.

And her quiet presence in his life had brought so many more truthsnever expected, too, so much gentle wonder, tender support, and evenheart-brightening good humor: Quiet conversations long into the darkof night, sharing the day's experiences; a nurturing woman's hand tolend support and balance to a sometimes stark existence; a livelyintelligence that continually was ready to challenge and enrich; and,as always, Diana's intuitive ability to feel, and understand, andbring about welcome change that seemed consistently as though to havebeen there in the first place.

Those were all gifts, too, that found their way with welcome intoVincent's day to day existence, along with her ability to turnsometimes trying circumstances into unexpectedly breathtakingones.

One such situation, which he happened to be enduring at that verymoment, remained in Vincent's spirit with radiating warmth: He hadcome to quickly realize that the simple act of sharing his bed withDiana would be a contradictory delight any other man might haveconsidered a bit daunting even under the most loving ofcircumstances.

In her life Above, she had been used to collapsing into her bedexhausted, both mentally and physically, from her spirit-crushingwork, to drop into a fitful sleep flat on her stomach, most timesclutching at her pillow, hugging it tight, like a reluctant anchor ofsecurity in her harrowing world. The pain found its way even into herdreams so often, robbing her of rest, subjecting her relentlessly tothe shadows of madness she battled so fervantly in her work. Therehad never been anything, or anyone, she could reach out to forsupport in those pulse-racing moments when she'd awakened incold-sweat fear, feeling so totally alone, and so totallyvulnerable.

But things had changed for her, now, and that reality had becomeas much a treasured gift for her as it had been for Vincent himself,for he found, suddenly, that he had become the unexpected source ofDiana's nighttime comfort.

Vincent smiled softly at the thought. No matter in what relativelybenign position she would fall asleep in, Diana somehow alwaysmanaged to find her way to his body for solace in the dark, thefeeling of him near, the shelter of his arms about her her verysource of consolation in the hours of the night, even if she was nolonger haunted by the pain of her life Above. Reassuring her thus wasa cherished duty her new husband would never want to be relieved of,finding himself drawn deeply into the serenity and comfort of hernearness as well, blessing heaven that he could allow her somemeasure of tranquility, grateful for his own gifting in her totaltrust.

So often, he confessed with astounding honesty to himself, thatcomfort easily evolved into heartstopping tenderness betweenthem.

Diana's burnished hair would flow over his bare skin with welcomeabandon as she would invariably come to find and rest her head on hischest. The cool environment of their rocky home was easily endured,they'd found, without need of layers of nighttime clothing. Instead,her slender body wound be easily, gratefully, draped against and ontop of his own powerful one for its entire beguiling length beneaththe quilts, in a genuine, trusting shelter that was at onceendearing, and more than slightly seductive -- a welcome, ortormenting gift for Vincent to hold, depending on how deeply asleepJacob was across the room, or how early the day's duties would cometo call.

The solace and gifting trust that was ever the truth between themfreed them both to pass the nights in deep, restful sleep, unhauntedby terrors or pain, as well as in nights of quietly enrichingtenderness that had grown more precious and confident with each touchshared, each kiss welcomed.

It was impossible for Vincent to keep from carrying an awesomewonder straight to his heart at that last thought. He and Diana hadnot found their roles as immediate, newlywed

parents all that inhibiting to their now so easily and naturallyembraced physical expressions of love. Tender moments had somehowbeen stolen, despite the largely casual definitions of privacy withinthe close confines of the Underworld community, as well as themischevious, sensitive, persistent presence of an ever-active threeyear old with an astounding capability of sharing in another's stateof heart.

Still, if Vincent would have even contemplated the possibility ofthe joy he was now carrying within his own heart at the knowledge ofwhat those tender moments had already wrought, he would haveseriously questioned his grip on reality.

But, the source of that wonder truly was real, the most blessedmanifestation of the power of love.

Vincent lightly ran his hand over Diana's beloved body with apossessive familiary that would have stunned him in past days. Hedrew her closer in his embrace, holding her to his heart, the angel,and her miracle.

At first, he couldn't trust himself to be certain. Now, though,Vincent knew he had to be right -- he had caught the unbelievingwonder she still guarded closely within her heart, as she was notquite sure herself, yet, that she was correctly reading her innerperceptions. Still, her body was not so willing to hold its secretlong, communicating it to him in subtle, but unmistakable ways.

The first evidence he had discovered had quite surprisinglycontributed to that contradictory attraction he now found her bodybewitching him with: Diana was becoming more sensuously provocativeat the very instant that he was compelled to feel most protective ofher, and her cherished secret.

Vincent slipped his hand along her shoulder and down to Diana'sbreast without a hesitation. The soft weight of it nearly filled hislarge hand now. A gentle, breathed sigh escaped Diana's lips at hisloving touch, even in her sleep. He brought his tender explorationthen to rest lower on the linen gown sheltering her body, down to herabdomen. It was not easily noticeable, but to a hand that hadmemorized every breath of her beguiling flesh, Vincent could tell thedifference even beneath the concealing fabric:

The normally well-tightened muscles of her slender body there hadyielded a bit.

Keeping his hand resting lightly on Diana's cherished figure,Vincent closed his eyes again and emptied his mind completely. It wasnot an easy task, for his sweet devotion to his wife's enchantingpresence beside him had lit a welcome, distracting warmth deep insidehis own formidible body, a cherished ache that held nothing buttreasured communion within its stirring depths. After a moment'scentering meditation, though, he was able to touch to the sensationswithin him that he recognized and sought.

Jacob's heartbeat he perceived instantly, peaceful in its rhythm,bringing him solace and hope. The child's blessed connnection to himhad been the very light that had held his soul safe from thesuffocating blackness of grief and remorse. It continued to bless himwith promise and wonder.

Diana's pulse, strong and sheltering, was what Vincent focused onnext, its presence in his heart no longer limited only to moments ofoverwhelming turmoil and need. Since the night of their marriage,indeed, since the moment of their consumated love, that essence hadbecome a soft, reassuring, ever-reachable strength within him, onemore gifting wonder he'd never dreamed could be his.

Beyond those two most cherished treasures in Vincent's spirit,there now was another

reality that he had been astonished to recognize within his soul.It was still quite faint and distant, and he needed to concentrateall of his empathic powers to it before he could even touch it. But,once it was within his spiritual reach, the new sound flooded withinhim with tearful amazement: It was the fluttering, quick-rhythmedheartbeat of a tiny new life.

Vincent blessed heaven for the gift, another outpouring of mercyin their so long tested existences.

"Is Mama still asleep?" came the sweet sound of a little voice atVincent's side, trying very hard to be a whisper. An unearthly handleft one tiny child then with an acknowledging, sheltering caress, torest upon the golden curls of another child in love.

"Good morning, Jacob," Vincent responded softly, drawing thelittle boy close to his side. "Yes, she is still sleeping. It isquite early yet."

A definite look of pensive concern covered the child's face. Heplaced his own small hand on Diana's. "She isn't ill, is she, Father?She sleeps so much longer now."

The serious tone of voice coming from the little three year oldbetrayed a very real sense of anxiety. Vincent wondered at his son'salready frequently evident empathic and intuitive abilities.

The child was undeniably, totally bonded to Diana's spirit, andprobably had been so for a much longer period of time than his fatherhad found himself. The little boy had had no fearful turmoil toovercome from within his heart before he could reach out and acceptthe generous, tender embrace of nuturing communion offered him fromthe very depths of her soul. He had been able to easily recognize herlove, a mother's love, accept it, and treasure it for the blessing itwas.

With one strong arm, Vincent scooped his young son up off thefloor and settled him onto the bed beside him. He touched a gentlehand to the child's furrowed features and whispered in reassurance,"Don't worry, Jacob. Mama is not ill. She just needs a bit more restthese days. We need to help her take care of herself."

Jacob seemed satisfied with the explanation, and Vincent wasgrateful, for he wanted to allow Diana the pleasure of explaining thewondrous mercy she would soon be gifting their family with to thelittle boy herself. He wanted to give her the joy of revealing herprecious secret to him as well, knowing how happily the mere thoughtof such an opportunity was holding her generous spirit with tenderanticipation.

For a long moment father and son lost themselves in the shelteringsolace of each other's presence, and of the beloved heart that had soabundantly changed their lives for the better. A little hand slidgently over burnished tresses as lovingly as Vincent's every could."Mama is a beautiful angel, isn't she?"

The child's quietly whispered words of innocent awe could haveeasily pierced his father's heart with unendurable pain only a fewshort months ago. But Vincent knew that Jacob's comment was only thechild's tenderly voiced certainty of wonder, the simple truth of whatthe little boy perceived as the reality of the circumstances that hadblessed his life with the amber-haired beauty he loved with everyfiber of his small, noble heart.

For somewhere in the overwhelming flood of pain, uncertainty,history, emotion, and reality that had battered the child's spirit assurely as it had his father's, Jacob had melded the image and thoughtof an angel mother watching over him from heaven with the loving,sheltering, earthbound mother of his day-to-day world now Below. Thatcombined fusion of endearing radiance had filled his little soul.

Vincent smiled gratefully at the boy's observation, so wise andtrue. "She is beautiful, Jacob," he agreed, blessing heaven for themercy that had brought one of its own into his life in the beguilingguise of tender humanity.

A stirring of the tousled, amber locks across his chest toldVincent that his wife was coming awake, despite the hushed tones ofthe conversation around her. He watched as shimmering emerald eyesslowly came open to hold his arresting blue ones in joyfulacknowledgement, that part of her soul that remained human andwomanly very much delighted to find herself enshrouded in earlymorning love.

The part of Vincent that cherished her humanity, and its gifting,uplifting joy, couldn't help but challenge her heavenly patience withhim at that young hour of the day -- he spoke to Jacob again, tocontinue his thought in a rather un-hushed whisper, "but she isbearable only when she sleeps."

A carefully aimed elbow found its way decidedly to his ribs;Vincent was forced to breathe a startled gasp that neverthelesscontinued into a heartfelt laugh. He deserved her response, afterall. Jacob giggled as well, when long, slender fingers snaked acrosshis father's chest to unerringly find the little boy's tummy.

"Well, I'm awake now, aren't I?" came the mockly menacing reply,as the bed erupted into a confusion of laughter, limbs, and dawn-timedelight. A tickling battle ensued, first concentrated on oneamber-haired angel for a victim, then, by mutual consent betweenmother and child, turned its attentions to a very vulnerable andsuddenly far from mythic figure of a father.

"Peace! I beg mercy and surrender!" The hoarse voice brought atriumphant smile to Jacob's face. Diana managed one last assault onher victim before withdrawing, running a less than innocent handalong Vincent's compellingly powerful body beneath the quilts thatreminded him instantly of how enticing a few moments alone with hisenigmatic wife could be. He battled her attentions with his own finaloffensive, holding her to him with an equally less than innocent kissthat left Diana wanting for anything but mercy. Then, he swept Jacoboff the bed with him to dress for the day.

"Let's get these costumes on properly and head down to the riverfor rehearsal. Who needs help? Hurry, now."

Samantha's easily instructing voice was heard over the chatter andexcited giggles of a half dozen of her youngest literature students.With Mary's and Diana's help, the little performers were beingtransformed into fairies for a selection of "A Midsummer Night'sDream," at the community's annual summer festival.

Costumes were nothing more than a few yards of recycled and drapedcloth, sheets mostly, that needed to be pinned or tied or gatheredaround little waists for the proper effect, as well as cardboardwings painted soft pastel colors for a truly ethereal look. But, theyoung actors were all eager to share their dramatic abilities withthe community at the festival.

Meeting in Mary's chamber for the final costume fitting, thechildren greeted Vincent who had joined them with Jacob. The littleboy was present for his wings as well. At the sight of her belovedmentor, Samantha added to the excitement with a teasinginvitation.

"You know, Diana, I had hoped that you and Vincent would havejoined us in a performance."

Diana couldn't help but laugh outright at the suggestion, as shecaught her husband's almost persuaded face. "O, heavens, no,Samantha! The only Shakespeare I've ever handled was a high schoolproduction of 'The Taming of the Shrew'." She bent to tie a flowerbedecked cord gathering Katy's robe together.

Vincent was about to innocently ask her what part she could havepossibly played when his wife threw daggers at him from the depths ofher green eyes. His silent guess was right after all it would seem, awarmth and radiance of easy good humor lighting his own gaze.

Samantha caught the sparkling exchange between the two people sheloved dearly and felt her own heart brighten with unburdened joy. Ithad been so long since she had seen her cherished teacher soobviously blessed with abundant, hopeful promise. It made her feeltouched by heaven as well.

"I was more thinking along the lines of 'Romeo and Juliet'actually for the two of you," she continued easily. "You know it,Vincent . . . the moment they first meet at the Capulet's ball."

Vincent stepped over to Diana's side with grace. She was, at themoment, engulfed with children bouncing, fabric drapinguncooperatively, and safety pins that were proving not at all thatbenign. It was the perfect setting, he thought, to offer hisbeleaguered, beloved wife a bit of loving support.

- "'O, she doth teach the torches to burn bright!

It seems she hangs upon the cheek of night

As a rich jewel in an Ethiop's ear --

Beauty too rich for use, for earth too dear.'"

The children stopped their chattering long enough to drink in themelodious sound of Vincent's voice, a familiar and yet all tooinfrequent dramatic treat these days. Diana was transfixed.

"'So shows a snowy dove trooping with crows

As yonder lady o'er her fellows shows.

The measure done, I'll watch her place to stand

And, touching hers, make blessed my rude hand.'"

Lifting his otherworldly hand before Diana's, Vincent gracefullyimplored contact. Without question, their spirits caressed in thatinstant just as readily as their hands. Shakespeare really did knoweverything.

"'Did my heart love till now? Forswear it sight.

For I ne'er saw true beauty till this night.'"

Mary felt a lump come up into her throat at the impromptuperformance. The tender wonder reaching out between the two players,so easily discernible upon their undisguised features despite thecommotion of children and costumes, was a blessing she also thankedheaven for.

Diana folded her fingers around the cherished ones shelteringhers. In a gentle voice tinged with playful confidence as well asacknowledging sweetness, she continued the drama, much to thesurprise of her captive audience.

"'Good pilgrim, you do wrong your hand too much,

Which mannerly devotion showes in this;

For saints have hands that pilgrim's hands do touch,

And palm to palm is holy palmer's kiss.'"

The astonishment in his face showed unmistakably that Vincent'stotal connection to his mercurial wife had still aparently left himin the dark about a few little details that contributed to the sumtotal of her indescribable personality. He never knew herwell-read

background included performing Shakespeare, and bewitchingly wellat that. He decided to offer Diana more of the Bard's words, thateasily described his present state of spirit.

"'O, then, dear saint, let lips do what hands do!'"

The kiss that was shared so easily and freely was not only a stagedirection memorized. It was broken only by the children's laughterand applause.

"I thought you couldn't handle Shakespeare, Diana! That wasbeautifully done," Samantha complimented genuinely. A sudden blushcolored Juliet's pale complexion, as she held Romeo's delightedfeatures.

"Inspiration from the proper leading man can work wonders, Iguess," came the slightly flustered reply.

"Diana, Diana, my wings won't stay on straight." Little Mirandare-emphasized who would be the performers for today's production,however, as she pulled on the former leading lady's skirt. Dianastooped over to help the child collect her askew wings patiently.

"Just a moment, Mandy. Hold still. Your ribbon has come undone."With an expert hand, Diana retied the questionable device holding thewings in place on a decidedly flitty fairy. Well, at least the littlegirl had the spirit of her own performance down right, if not exactlyall the dialogue.

At Samantha's urging, all her small charges followed her fromMary's room and on their way to the river park to brush up on theirlines. Vincent leaned another reassuring kiss to Diana's bowed headwhere she remained bending to the floor, attempting to retrieve lostpins and bits of ribbon and silk flowers.

"I will be setting up tables with William if anyone needs me."Vincent managed to make himself heard over the retreating din of thewould-be fairies, before he, too, left the room for the river. Dianareturned to her pin hunting after giving Jacob a hug and kiss.

"This should be a wondrous summer celebration," Mary commented, asshe folded up the remnants of cloth left over from the children'scostumes. "Luke, Katy, and now even Jacob . . . they were all justbabies a little while ago, and now they will be performing at thefestival. I can't believe how quickly the time has flown."

"The children's enthusiasm should make for . . . " Diana did notcomplete her observation as an unexpected wave of nauseuouslightheadedness suddenly hit her the moment she straightened up fromthe floor to come to her feet. The pin box dropped from her hand andits contents scattered once more.

Mary blanched herself, a moment, at the sight of a very unsteadyDiana. Quickly, she

reached a supporting arm around the young woman's shoulders,leading her to the worn reading chair nearby. With a few gropingattempts to balance herself again, Diana was able to sit heavily ontothe chair.

"What is it, dear? Are you all right? Should I call Vincentback?"

"No, Mary, don't worry. I'm fine." The words meant to reassure didnot. "I just got a little dizzy. I must have stood up tooquickly."

The elder woman pulled a straightback chair from beneath her smalltable so she could sit closely to her shakey companion. Reaching ontoDiana's lap, she took one of the young woman's hands into hers, thenpromptly began to time her pulse at her wrist.

When she at last felt the agitated heartbeat realign itself into asteady rhythm, Mary released Diana's arm, and ran a soft, workworntouch over her flushed cheeks.

"Have you told Vincent yet?" came the quiet inquiry.

For a moment, Mary's charge wasn't certain at all what the elderwoman was referring to. "Told Vincent what?"

A beautiful, knowing smile radiated completely over Mary's face."That you are carrying his child."

Diana lifted incredulous eyes to her dear friend, but was hardlysurprised at the fact that the deeply treasured secret she wasn'teven certain of believing herself would have been revealed so easilyto the caring woman.

Mary followed exactly what she was thinking. "I've been helpingbring new lives into this community for over 23 years. It's not thatdifficult to pick up when a young woman is pregnant, Diana.

"I've come to realize that there are really only two moments in awoman's life when she holds the radiance of heaven itself in hereyes," the gentle voice continued with experienced familiarity. "Thefirst is when she knows for certain that she is truly loved by theman she loves. The second is when she knows she is carrying hischild." Mary smoothed back a lock of Diana's errant amber hair withmaternal ease.

"You've been wearing that radiance in your eyes for a while, mydear, and I'm certain that Vincent's tenderness is not the onlyreason it is shining with such beauty."

An almost relieved smile also brightened the mother-to-be's stillfragile features. She shook her head slowly, a bit fearful of havingto undergo another bout of vertigo. "I haven't exactly told Vincentyet, though I wouldn't be surprise if he already sensed it. He's beenso much more -- protective -- of me lately."

"You mean moreso that usual?" came the bright inquiry.

A bit of a patient laugh told Mary Diana's usual good spirits werereturning. "To tell you the truth, I'm not certain I believe itmyself."

"Well, we'll take care of that soon enough. I'll have Father giveyou a good exam and then . . ."

"No, Mary, please, don't tell Father yet."

The matriarch of the Underworld community immediately caught thethread of anxiety in Diana's response, and realized it had nothingwhatever to do with the fact that Jacob Wells would most likely betotally incapable of keeping such wondrous news to himself for verylong. Not when it would be the very answer to his past prayers forhis own beloved child. The gentle lady brushed her hand over thebright hair of her dearly cared for near- daughter.

"You aren't worried to tell Vincent, are you, child?"

Diana held the warm hazel eyes, a mother's eyes, that reached outto her in gentle reassurance, joy and hope. She'd always felt so atease, sharing her heart with Mary. She knew that the loving womanwould understand what even she herself couldn't quite come todescribe that was taking hold of her heart.

"Oh no, Mary! I think being able to tell Vincent this news is justabout the most wondrous thing I could ever do. It is just . . .unbelievable . . . I mean, when I spoke with you on our wedding day,I was near to despairing, even then, that Vincent and I could evertruly find our way completely to one another, past all the pain anduncertainty."

"And here you are, holding a miracle within you, already."

"That is the word for it, isn't it?" There was a real awe andwonder in Diana's voice. A radiant glow filled her delicatelyfeatured face. Without even thinking, she ran a hand gently over herabdomen in a sheltering embrace for the child she was carrying.

"But you must tell Vincent as soon as you are able to, dear." Thematernal concern for her own beloved foster son led Mary to sense thehesitation in the young mother's heart.

"You can't be afraid he won't be overjoyed at the news . . . "

The sublimely giving relationship Vincent shared with Jacob wasonly evidence of the blessed and loving welcome this tiny littlemiracle was certain to receive: Mary could fathom no other responsefrom the child's father with such a revelation.

"Never. No, Mary. It is what we've both prayed for, dreamed of --our own child."

Diana's luminece face, though, was suddenly confused, disturbed athow her words might have sounded. She explained herself anxiously. "Ilove Jacob more than I could ever show him in a dozen lifetimes! Hewill always be my beloved little boy . . . "

" . . . But a child born of your own body, of Vincent's love foryou -- that is a true gift, a mercy to you both." The quiet wordswere so understanding. Diana was relieved.

"Yes, Mary. A mercy."

"And the fear?"

How could Diana place into words the firestorm of emotions thathad been swirling about her heart since the first moments she hadactually realized what her body had been attempting to tell her inrecent weeks. A child of their own, a new life born of their love--

there could have been no greater treasure for her and Vincent toshare. Indeed, it was as

if she'd known such a gift had become their blessing from themoment they'd consumated their love, the sublime, trusting communionthey'd shared embodied into life itself.

Still, would they be free to accept it, truly, as a gift andblessing, without the agonies of the past threatening to rob them oftheir joy? That was where the pain, the fear, lay, within Diana'sheart.

"I just pray, Mary, that this can be a time Vincent can cherishwithout having to find himself overwhelmed with heartache again."Diana held to the length of ribbon in her hand distractedly. "Hewasn't able to . . . be there for . . . Catherine . . . and Jacob,"she spoke quietly. "I guess I'm just afraid that telling Vincent ofour baby will bring him as much pain as it will joy, that it willbring back all the grief and desperation he was nearly lost tobefore."

She knew her concerns were irrational, in the deepest part of herheart. Yet, that heart had only been freed of guilty turmoil for arelatively short time. Her husband's had been tormented for aneternity. "It's already cost us so much pain and fear, Mary,Vincent's past with Catherine. This is something we should be able toshare without fear, in joy. I want him so very much to experiencewhat this could be for us, free of the past. I want us just to be aman and a woman expecting our baby."

The green eyes, honest with their anxious uncertainty, reached outfor some reassurance and hope, to Mary's heart. The elder womanresponded immediately. She kissed Diana gently on the forehead,wiping away a single tear that had slipped across her cheek, and didnot hesitate to offer her the benefit of her loving guidance.

"Tell Vincent, Diana, today, if you can. Don't wait. Share yournews with him. Yes, he wasn't able to be at Catherine's side when shewas carrying Jacob; the nightmare that had taken her from him kepthim from her side. But that is all the more reason you must let himknow your news. Catherine was lost to him, but you are here. You arehis wife. He and Jacob adore you.

"Don't let fear rob him of the chance to do for you what he wasnot able to do for Catherine. It will strengthen you both, child, notthreaten you. Believe that, Diana. Your gift to him is already here.Don't be afraid to need him."

"I know, Mary, what you are saying. I guess I'm just afraid ofneeding him too much, of overwhelming him even before I'm ready tobelieve this all myself. I'm scared, Mary."

The softly truthful words held the elder woman's spirit. "Everynew mother is frightened, Diana. Let Vincent be scared with you. Lethim share in the miracle from this very moment, dear, the things thatwill keep you up nights as well as the wonders that you can marvel intogether. Don't be afraid to need him.

"Let him shelter you, protect you. Let him help you put up withmorning sickness and swollen feet and an aching back. Let him dreamwith you and worry with you. Let him be your husband in this. Henever had the chance to before. And you will be blessed because ofit."

The tears began to fall in earnest then, from Diana's emeraldeyes. She recalled how difficult it had been for her to try tounderstand how Catherine could have hesitated telling Vincent aboutJacob. She still hadn't been able to reconcile that reality withinher own heart. Only the fear of causing her husband pain, by plunginghim back into his finally diffused agonies of the past, had keptDiana from sharing her own wonder with him.

She would have melted into the sweetness of his tenderness andcare, feeling the wealth of radiant devotion for her he would havepoured from his heart into hers at such news, days, weeks ago,indeed, at the very first moment the thought even actually formedwithin her mind that perhaps, just perhaps . . . She would haverevelled in the astonished joy and precious awe she would have seenin his face . . . She would have blessed heaven for the opportunityto help him reinforce his own belief in the miracle that was hishumanity. Only the shadows of the past had kept her from it all.

Cathy, I'll never understand what was in your heart at thatmoment, she reiterated to herself silently, what held you back fromtelling Vincent about Jacob; but I am pregnant with my husband'schild, now, and I am going to let him share it all with me. We needto be there for each other, and I know he is ready to keep the pastas the past.

Touching to her hope and conviction within her own love, Dianasmiled at last, softly, and with shy expectation. Mary's seriouscountenance also brightened at the sight of her friend's renewedhope. "I'd like it to be a special moment for us, Mary, when I tellhim," she explained, a tender blush coloring her translucentskin.

Mary lifted her hand to Diana's chin with motherly care. "Of,course, dear. Just let me know when you need me to take Jacob."

It had been her intention to protest the need for keeping thelittle boy in the dark as of yet, but the sparkling brightness in thehazel eyes urging her onwards towards hope deepened the blush onDiana's pale cheeks. "That won't be necessary, Mary."

"Nonsense, child. There's no reason such wondrous news can't berevealed within the context of a quiet, romantic evening, just thetwo of you together. Both you and Vincent have been flooded withresponsibilities lately. You need some time to yourselves. God knowsthere will be precious little of it when the baby arrives!" An almostmischevious

turn of Mary's usually demure manner nearly stunned Diana."Besides, there are some very worthwhile advantages to a lovingrelationship that a woman with child can offer her husband, mydear."

Finally getting past the fact that it was Mary who was givingvoice to her own romantic hopes in their conversation, Diana admittedit to herself -- The thought was so beguiling --

Some time together with her beloved husband alone. She could counton the fingers of her one hand how many uninterrupted evenings ofpeace they'd been able to share since their wedding night.

Perhaps after the festival tonight, she could suggest the idea toVincent, Diana thought with a sudden warm ease of heart. That is, ifMary hadn't already.

Diana found herself wondering how on earth Father had remainedapparently immune to that gentle lady's loving and wise heart for solong.

The sight that met Vincent and Diana once they left the dim lightof the tunnels for the bright expanse of the Chamber of the Falls anddown the steep path to the riverbank below was an incongruouscombination of delights -- medieval in its appearance, Victorian inits formality, but with a Norman Rockwell type of familial spiritenveloping and enlivening the total picture.

On the riverbank park, among the green potted plants and brightsplashes of flowers in flea-market containers, the Underworldcommunity was celebrating a season it had relatively little actualexperience of . . . summer. In the city Above, business-suitedcommuters sweltered between taxi stops and air conditioned officebuildings, asphalt-confined youngsters took their refreshing plungesin legally and semi-legally pirated fire hydrant flows, and the cityskyline trembled in the optical illusions of searing heat wavesradiating from concrete and steel and glass: summer in New YorkCity.

For the tunnel community, the season was usually barely noticeablebeyond the tracking of a calendar. While temperatures soared tovaporizing heights Above, the environment among the stone chamberswas little altered beyond a rise of a half dozen degrees or so, mostdiscernible in the relatively bright expanse of the river chasm. Thelight in that vast, remarkable location would indeed take on a sortof warmth in itself that mimicked quite successfully the radiant heatof a mid-May day rather than one in mid summer.

But, for the men, women, and children of the Underworld, it wasenough of a change to revel in with simple delights -- Festival Week.The tradition denoted a time when school work gave way to excitedamateur presentations of the various arts; the day to day labors ofsupporting a subsistence lifestyle were momentarily set aside forfamily time; and community activities were interspersed withspirit-enriching excursions into the natural wonders of their magicalworld.

"I am always amazed at the sights of these days," Diana observedbrightly as she leaned against Vincent in a moment of contemplationbefore they, too, joined the encompassing crowd of family beforethem.

"We are a wonder as a community," came the gentle, appreciativereply from her side.

It had been too long since Vincent had been able to once againrejoice in the uniquely nurturing environment that was his home. Hecredited his beloved wife's extraordiary, hopeful soul fully withthat transformation within him.

The transformation also included most of the community at themoment, it would seem, as the heavy, serious garments of both bodyand spirit gave way temporarily to the lightness of summer. Evidenceof life in its fullness tumbled over itself all around them.

Children in coveralls and light cotton dresses were romping aboutin the now quite luxuriant growth of grass that rimmed the river bankfor a freedom-reinforcing stretch of a hundred feet. Long-burdeninglayers of heavy fabrics were shed for a stunning juxtaposition ofgarments among tunnel dwellers of every age, all geared to onepurpose -- enjoying the relative warmth and brightness of the light.Wool trousers gave way to twill pants, sweaters and tunics werereplaced by cotton shirts, heavy boots were actually pulled off andreplaced by comfortable moccasins, and, for the truly adventurous,walking sandals.

Even the more conservative of the women who were still in dresseshad found ways to enjoy the summer brightness, not in envelopinglayers of homespun and recycled fabrics, but wearing charming,nostalgic light-weighted garments, "housedresses" and jumpers thatlent a gentle aire of civility to the boisterous activity.

The bravest souls of the lot -- the adolescents and young adultsof the community, were enjoying summer in the river itself, swimming,in a faded assortment of leggings and shirts hardly sheltering themfrom the still relatively chill water. Still, it was summer, and atime to enjoy one another's company in good spirits and with warmhearts.

Even Diana and Vincent had succumbed to the enticing invitation ofwarm brightness radiating down over them: Diana had exchanged herwool tunic and skirt for a softly gathered cotton dress in a mutedfloral print of greens and blues. The colors played off her braidedrusset hair and bright emerald eyes beautifully, lending a gentle,reminiscent aura of femininity to her open features.

Vincent was not immune to the temptations of sunlight this day,either. He wore only a long-sleeved muslin shirt and jeans that hadacquired a comfortable fit on his powerful body. His cloak had beenleft behind in their chamber, the warm brightness of his surroundingsfree to glisten in his golden hair and over his captivating features,something that was not overlooked by Diana's soaring heart thisparticular day.

Once the majority of the community had assembled, the plannedactivities of the day were announced by Pascal -- a sand castlebuilding for teams of adults and children, relay races and tests ofskill, a miniature sailboat race across the small lagoon pond, and,of course, a picnic feast William could justly be proud of.

The prelude to all the activities, though, would be the longawaited for, much rehearsed, children's production of literaryhighlights.

Vincent and Diana made their way to an open spot beneath one ofthe thriving ficus trees where Rebecca, Jaimie, and Mouse waited forthem, seated on a blanket. Getting comfortable at their places, thelate-arriving husband and wife were greeted with numerous salutationsfrom all those around.

"Should have joined us for a swim. Water's good, today," Mouseexplained, his still-wet hair attesting to the young engineer'sfondness for the water. Vincent smiled to himself at the sight,remembering how he'd had to teach the young man to swim only three orfour years ago. Somehow, Mouse had always evaded the swimming lessonsurged upon all the children of the community, as much for their ownprotection as for their enjoyment in the rugged terrain of theirenvironment and the constant presence of water within it.

Mouse had reached his twenties without the benefit of a singleguiding instruction when he took an unexpected dousing in the MirrorPool while repairing an aqueduct pipe overhead. Far from raising fearin the young man's heart, the experience had compelled him instead toseek Vincent out for immediate help with the skills required. He had,since then, become quite an avid and competent swimmer.

"Perhaps later we shall take Jacob in," Vincent responded, with abit of a daring glance back to Diana. He knew what her comment waslikely to be.

"I'll turn into an icicle and you'll have to rescue me instead ofenjoying yourselves."

"Someday, I will get you into that water, Diana, and you willenjoy it," came the easy reply, accompanied by a mischevious glint inunearthly blue eyes that threatened, or promised, an experience Dianawould be certain to remember.

"We'll see," was her simple conclusion, though she could think ofno more welcome way to spend a languid evening in Vincent's company.Still, that damnably cold water always froze her best intentions ofjoining her husband in an activity he obviously enjoyed.

Vincent's strength made him a powerful swimmer, graceful and lithein the water, with a natural skill and ability. He'd long agoaccustomed himself to the unwelcoming temperature of the water in theworld Below, and had often begun his day with a swim in the MirrorPool or even here down at the river.

Diana, though, couldn't quite bring herself to tolerate theextreme conditions. She had only managed to join her husband in thewater for a few moments at a time on odd occasions. Vincent hadcurtailed his own enjoyment of the river, then, simply because hehated to have to exclude her participation. Their free time togetherwas so precious to them both that he wanted to make certain Diana hadevery opportunity of joining him in his activities where hisabbreviated leisure time allowed.

Still, perhaps tonight would be different, he thought with yet-shyexpectation. She had wanted a special time for them both. He had readit in Diana's heart today, and he wondered at how perfectly herunexpressed wish would meld with his special plan. Touching to hisextraordinary link with his wife's heart hadn't even been necessaryfor Vincent to recognize the need they were both reluctantly enduringat the moment -- the unavoidable lack of time together alone that acommunal existence, and a young child, had forced on them. But,hopefully, that particular situation would be soon remedied. Diana'sspirit within him was close to breathless with anticipation thatwarmed his own soul.

With a tender embrace, Vincent pulled Diana to rest closelyagainst him, as they listened to Samantha introducing the children'sproduction. Diana smiled softly and easily leaned her body againsthis in its cherished shelter. Vincent never tired of holding hernear--she, of being held near.

"We would like to present you with a special version of 'AMidsummer Night's Dream'." The bright pride in Samantha's voice heldher teacher's attention momentarily away from the tender comfort hewould readily yield himself to. Even across the crowd of family, theyoung girl was able to pick out the reassuring acknowledgement comingat her from Vincent's beloved features, urging her on to the successhe knew would be hers in all her endeavors. At that moment, theanxious young dramatist knew all would be well.

In a moment, a delightful array of fairy folk trouped over to aclearing among the crowd that would be their stage. The childrenranged in age from seven year old veteran actors, to Jacob's nearlythree. Each child immediately searched the crowd for familiar,reassuring faces, too.

Katy smiled over to her mother Lena and Dominic, the young man whowould, no doubt, become her new father soon. Luke waved to hisparents with grateful joy playing across his gentle features . . .Kanin had returned to their midst, at last a free man, and Oliviablessed heaven without ceasing for having been given the strength toendure his heartbreaking absence.

In the very front of the crowd of children was, of course, Jacob,as he was the youngest performer today. The seriousness that markedthe little actor's manner was captivating as he took his place. But,the moment he caught sight of his parents, he, too, let the innerlight of joyous, exhuberant childhood radiate out to Diana andVincent with welcome and encompassing generosity.

A sudden tear, the breathless realization of how quickly thelittle boy was growing, threatened to trail across his father'smythic features that would have been totally at home in Oberon'skingdom.

Well coached as to the need for proper dramatic delivery, thechildren began in loud, yet typically sweet sing-song voices:

"'Over hill, over dale,

Thorough bush, thorough brier,

Over park, over pale,

Thorough flood, thorough fire,

"'I do wander everywhere

Swifter than the moon's sphere;

And I serve the faery queen,

To dew her orbs upon the green.'"

The opening having been enthusiastically related in relativelyharmonious time, despite the somewhat overwhelming vocabulary, eachof the children then stepped forward to offer their own personalline, complete with appropriate mannerisms and actions.

"'The cowslips tall her pensioners be:

In their gold coats spots you see;

Those be rubies, fairy favours,

In those freckles live their savours:'"

Here, a general wave of mirth swept over the crowd because littleMiranda delivered the last line, and her bright, strawberry blondehair and freckles were all the reinforcing mannerisms necessary toget her point across to the audience. Katy continued, then,

"'I must go seek some dew-drops here,'"

And, at last, Jacob, in his sweet, serious voice,

"'And hang a pearl in every cowslip's ear.'"

The smile that beamed over the child's face, knowing that he'dspoken his line without error, was completely infectious. This timeDiana was the parent with the misting eyes. To end in chorus, thechildren all chimed the final lines,

"'Farewell thou lob of spirits, I'll be gone:

Our queen and all our elves come here anon.'"

With a scurry in various directions to set to their fairy tasks,the children all scattered off into the audience to seek theirelders, each bringing along a little nosegay of flowers as a gift.The performance received an approporiately enthusiastic round ofapplause. Little fairies bowed and curtsied through the crowd inacknowledgement.

Jacob made his way over to the ficus tree and stood offering hispansies to Diana. She accepted them with a heartfelt embrace,wrapping the little boy up in her love. Truly, she would need a dozenlifetimes to be able to express all the child meant to her.

Vincent offered Jacob his lap and kissed his young son easily."How wonderfully well you performed, Jacob! You all must have workedvery hard. You should be proud."

"It was so much fun, Father! And Samantha had to remind us onlyonce to be fairies and not imps."

The honesty of the little actor's statement made Vincent laughoutright, as he could easily identify with what the young teacher hadhad to endure. So, it came as a surprise to no one except Samanthaherself, when she was urged to the stage clearing once again byPascal's invitation, to accept a bouquet of summer flowers presentedto her by Luke on behalf of all the children. The wondrous pride andaccomplishment on the young girl's face was enough to keep liftedeveryone's spirits for the entire rest of the day.

Once the performers were resettled within the audience, Pascalintroduced the older children who were to offer selections of musicthat were appropriate to the season on their various instruments.Soon, the lyrical sounds of Vivaldi and Mozart echoed brightly offthe stone cliffs of the cavern, to mingle with the soothing power ofthe falls and the river beyond.

The audience fell into a welcome revelry with the music, and Dianalet her gaze pass easily over the assembled community with gentleaffection, a community she was now so happy to be able to considerher own loved ones.

Kanin and Olivia were sitting closely together at the edge of thegrass, with Luke between them, a family once again. The tender warmthenveloping them all was a mercy to behold. They would have so muchtime to catch up to, but their love needed no such refreshment. Itwas deep and gentle, and wonderfilled, as always, the painfulseparation they'd all endured only strengthening their ties to oneanother and making them ever so much more cherished and sweet.

Diana couldn't keep from setting a sheltering hand onto herwaistline, over the baby she was nurturing within her. A soft smilestole across her lips. Mary didn't know it yet, but she would soonhave two mothers-to-be under her care. Olivia had shared her joyousnews with Diana just the other night, as the two of them were workingin the kitchen after supper, that news a blessing indeed for thetested family. Again, she let her mind drift to

welcome thoughts of her own happy news, and the hope she'd be ableto offer it to Vincent this evening as they shared some welcome,special time together at last.

The community itself was also the recipient of numerous recentblessings, too, this summer. Michael had completed his teachingdegree with honors Above. He had returned home for the summer toshare his experiences and his knowledge with the Underworld'seducators, Vincent and Diana included, preparing for the comingschool terms. And, of course, he would be spending time with Brooke,time that was becoming sweeter and more precious by the minute. Itwas obvious that although he treasured his opportunities in the worldAbove, Michael's heart and soul still remained with the communitythat had sheltered and nurtured him for so long.

In the fall, he would take a position teaching at a beleaguredschool in the South Bronx, living there as well, working to share hiszest for learning with children desperate for hope, but he would bereturning each weekend to be among his family members andfriends.

Vincent had been understandably proud at the success andselflessness of his former pupil, and he prayed that the young manwould be able to take hold of some special hope in his own life,beyond his commitment to his new vocation. Brooke's tender heartwould be very much a gift for the young teacher, he knew.

One result of Michael's temporay return to the community was theincredible offering he had made to his home for its own teachingmission. He had come Below with boxes of textbooks and supportingmaterials for many subject areas. Having worked parttime onreconstruction crews that were remodelling an elementary school nearhis college, after hours, Michael had carefully gone through cabinetsand closets full of discarded, but still usable materials, and hadassembled a wondrous gift for the scholars back home.

Vincent had spent no less time organizing the materials once theywere brought Below.

More than once, Diana had found her husband pouring over volumes,taking copious notes and formulating lession plans even after havingput in a full day's work in the stone chambers beforehand, all inpreparation for the next terms of classes for the tunnel children. Ithad been another joy for her to experience with her beloved, as theyshared ideas and information between them, she, finally able to useher bright and insightful intelligence in such positive, promisingwork. It was such a far cry from her spirit-sapping

days in the world of criminal justice in the city Above them.

Diana's quiet contemplation of the gathered family members finallyfell on what she considered to be the most wondrous blessing theycould all rejoice in: To the rear of the assembled crowd, sharing abench set up before a stately Norfolk Pine, were Father and Mary,surveying their beloved community as well, and enjoying the peaceful,enveloping tones of the children's music.

It was a heartwarming sight: The two elder leaders of theUnderworld were much in a similar position as most of the couplesscattered about the audience -- leaning against one another in easy,confortable repose. Father had one sheltering arm gently about Mary'sshoulders.

The look of sheer bliss on the beautiful, careworn features of theolder woman caught a lump in Diana's throat. Though she tried toclear it to call to her own husband close beside her, she onlymanaged to gently nudge Vincent's attention away from the musciansand over to his father. Finally, Diana whispered a sweet, heartfelt,"Look."

Vincent followed her direction to the pine, and the radiantportrait of mature love that met his eyes. He let a sigh of wonderand gratitude slip from his heart. "It would appear they have foundone another. At last," he whispered.

The tenderness that reached out to him from his foster father andmother warmed Vincent to his very soul. Ever since he was a boy, andold enough to understand the heart's sometimes indecipherable needs,he had watched the complex interaction between Jacob Wells andMary.

They'd shared the heartaches and disappointments and tragedies of23 years as unacknowledged soulmates within the community, yet,neither had ever made a move to accept their shared spirits in a wordthey embodied as no other -- love.

But, it was love that they shared -- tested, resilient, pained,but true. Over the years, Mary had reconciled herself to the factthat she would forever be at the distinguished physician's side, butnever in his arms. He had found temporary solace in the arms ofanother, but never would be able to share his world with her at hisside.

Yet, somehow, in past months, even they had made their way to oneanother. Vincent found it comforting to guess at the reason why withsome confidence: If he and Diana had been able to forge a blessedrelationship in total, committed love, why couldn't they?

Vincent gently kissed his beloved wife on the cheek, then gaveJacob a similar acknowledgement on his golden red curls. Thanks toheaven's mercy, he had been able to finally relinquish his terrors ofheart for the unburdened freedom of love, of loving Diana. A gentlesmile crossed his wife's ethereal face, as though she had read hisheart in that instant. He had no doubt that she did.

"What brings such a look to your face, my love?" he askedquietly.

"That could have been us, you know . . . apart for decades beforewe could find our way to each other."

Vincent shook his head. "I would have never survived decades ofyour temperament, Diana. It would hardly have been long-suffering andquietly resigned as Mary's has been over the years."

The definite challenge in those quiet observations begged to betaken up. Diana's green eyes flashed in familiar defiance. "Is thatso? Well, I pray that Jacob hasn't inherited the bedeviling traitthat you Wells men seem to have nurtured into an art."

"And what bedeviling trait is that?" Vincent continued, attemptingto keep a serious and injured look about him.

"The need to reject love for an eternity when it is so plainly andgenerously offered by a companion heart!"

The encompassing smile that lit Vincent's unique features told hiswife she had made her point, painlessly. "Jacob wil be tormented byno such ill inheritance. Hopefully, between the two of us, we will beable to help him learn to recognize love and move towards it alwaysin hope. You were able to teach me."

Diana lifted her husband's hand from where it rested on her sleeveand set a tender kiss to its work-roughened palm. The ache to offerhim more was suddenly lit within her heart. She knew he read it therefrom the sweetly possessive shift in his embrace. It may have takenthem the turmoil of years to find their pain-riddled way to oneanother, but they could touch to each other's souls quite readily bynow. And accept, quite readily, the gifts of love within.

Once the musical selections were completed, the crowd of tunnelresidents dispersed to any number of activities offered before lunch.A series of swimming heats enticed Mouse and Jamie back into thewater, along with numerous other brave participants. Vincent andDiana took Jacob over to the lagoon pond where he could test hissailing skills against some of the other youngsters.

Small crafts of various designs and materials were all urgedacross the little pond with shouts and arm-wavings and individualsail-blowing techniques. There was much laughter as well asgood-natured cheers.

Jacob's little boat was pitted against Katy's for one race, andwas a length behind when the little boy found his second wind andbrought the small boat to within striking distance. With about a footof water to go, the two boats were in a dead heat, and the cheers andurgings of onlookers grew to a wondrous tumult. Finally, Katy's boattouched land a breath before Jacob's. True to his generousdisposition, the little boy complimented his playmate'saccomplishment.

"You're a good sailor, Katy, for a girl."

"Ah, and now it begins: The battle of the sexes," Diana observedwith patient good humor to Lena. Both mothers laughed.

After the races, the sand castle competition began with teamsbeing allowed 1/2 hour

to construct their buildings using similar tools. Samantha joinedVincent, Diana and Jacob, and the construction began in earnest. Inno time, a striking concoction of towers, moats, and walls took shapewith generous abandon and imagination.

Vincent did the main shaping with Jacob carefully digging theinterconnecting waterways to his little heart's content. Diana andSamantha concentrated on the finishing aspects of the design with thetowers and added bits of detail -- stones and sticks for paths anddecor, and even a large ivy leaf for a flying standard. When time wascalled, everyone was quite satisfied with their endeavors.

And, true to the comunity's spirit, every building and team wassingled out for its own merits and achievements: tallest, largest,most towers, best decorated, and so on. The judging team ofElizabeth, Cullen, and Father presented a ribbon for "MostImaginative Use of Waterways" to Jacob and his fellow builders. Thecastles were left to be admired for the rest of the day with theirprizes proudly showing.

Finally, William's contribution to the day had all the communityflocking to the tables for a picnic feast -- cold meats and salads,rolls and breads in abundance, cheese and fruits and even chunks ofwatermelon which everyone relished with gusto.

Vincent and Diana returned to their blanket to enjoy the mealleisurely with Jacob. "I guess family time in summer is the samewherever we go," Diana observed, smiling as Jacob battled hisslippery pieces of melon.

"Your experience of summer must have been a bit different, I'dguess," Vincent returned, the thought of a young Diana with herfamily filling his mind with warm and tender images.

"Maybe the particular circumstances were different, but thefeelings never change. I always felt so close to my family when wewere free to spend a few days together with laughter and dreams ands'mores over a campfire."

"Some more's?" came the inevitable question. The totally perplexedlook crossing Vincent's unique face was enchanting.

"S'mores. You've never had them? I suppose not -- I think theywere a Girl Scout invention."

"And you, no doubt, were a Girl Scout." Vincent gave his wife anincredulous smile.

"Of course. Both Maureen and I were, all the way through to SeniorScouts and camp counselors. We made the best s'mores you could everhope for." Diana was relishing her selective answers to her husband'sinquires. He'd only rarely ever asked her about her life Above beforethey knew one another, never wanting to cause her any pang of lossfor a world she'd left behind, for him. But she cherished being ableto open all that she was, and had been, to him, in completetrust.

Vincent still had not received a satisfactory reply to hisperplexed question, this time, though, so he continued on. "And these. . . some mores . . . were made how?"

"Yes, Mama, how did you make them?" The little voice that asked soseriously melted Diana's resolve instantly. She may have enjoyedchallenging her husband, but she would never leave Jacob in the darkabout important details of her childhood. Vincent's patience with herteasing good humor had earned him his answers, also.

"Well, when you have a good campfire going, you toast marshmallowson the end of a stick. Then you pull them off the stick with a pieceof chocolate bar and two graham crackers. When they are stucktogether and gooey, you have a s'more."

"They sound yummy, Mama. Maybe you can make them some time."

Jacob's lapse in vocabulary made his mother smile. She promised,"If we ever have a campfire going, and I can find the ingredients,I'd be happy to make some for you both."

"It seems as though you enjoyed being away from the city as achild," Vincent noted as he sought to help Jacob clean himself upfrom his run-in with the uncooperative melon.

"Oh, I did. We could never afford any fancy vacation, and my Dadalways found it hard to take time off duty for too long. But, hissister lived in Massachusetts and every year we'd spend two weeks upthere. It was a quiet little town and there were lots of trees andtrails. My sister and my cousins and I would pack some sandwiches andlemonade and ride our bikes or hike for hours.

"There was a little park nearby, marking some local RevolutionaryWar history. We'd spend the day sometimes dropping rocks off a bridgeinto the stream, or exploring trails, pretending we were Minutemenfighting the British. Most days were just spent lying in the grass inthe sun and looking up into the trees and the blue sky. It madecoming back to the city a bit more endurable."

The easy reminiscences of Diana's experiences filled her withwarmth and joy. But a sudden pang of guilt clouded her heart, as sherealized how distant such memories must still seem to her love.

Vincent read the fear of inadvertantly causing him painimmediately. He drew Diana close and lifted her gaze gently up to hisown untroubled one. "Those are beautiful moments to carry throughyour life, Diana. Don't bury them because of me."

"I know your experiences have been so much more limited thanmine," came the soft response.

"Not so limited. Only different, Diana. And in their own way,beautiful to remember, as well."

Diana pressed a gentle, grateful kiss to her husband's lips. She'dlong known how painful it had been for Vincent to realized he'd neverbe able to share Catherine's world with her. The ache of their alwaysseparated paths had brought him nothing but the reality of what theycould never experience together, an anguish that had blinded him tothe truth of all they could have indeed shared, in his world. Anurturing, loving, environment of magical natural beauty was nolonger his home, his place of refuge. It became, in his own words,his tomb.

Yet, one of the blessed gifts that their own love had restoredVincent, Diana was quick to comprehend, was his wonder and love forhis own world. He had taken so many opportunities to open that worldup to her, giving her the very real treasure that was his home, asher own.

Knowing that she could consider his world as her own beloved homehad made it so much easier for him to believe and hope in their loveand commitment to one another. He'd never feared he was condemningher to a life of hardship and stark tribulation. He was welcomingher, instead, to his refuge. He was welcoming himself.

Leaning back against the sheltering power of his body, Dianaclosed her eyes for a moment, her mind full of the wonders that hadenriched her life since she had bound it to her beloved's. Cathy, sheasked quietly within her heart, did you ever really know what youwere giving up by staying Above? It was infinitely so much more thanwhat I've supposedly lost coming Below. And look at what was waitinghere.

The reaffirmation of her heart's desire was both grateful andbrushed with awesome wonder. The threads of destiny again . . . Thistime, their fragile weaving had proven so heart-gifting and a trueblessing. A marvelous world had been opened up to her, a place ofpromise and possibility, that gave her beloved the freedom of atreasured, fulfilling existence. She longed for the quiet respite ofthe coming night so that she might offer the compelling, nurturingsoul that was her husband the evidence of her own solace and wonderwith her present state of heart.

Stunning sapphire depths held her own eyes when she opened themagain, with loving commitment. She could read that Vincent asked forno more sweet repose, either, sharing in their gifted oneness in theblessed confines of their own home. Had he ever truly refused hishumanity in agonized guilt and fear? It couldn't have been possible.There was only hope and promise alive between them now. And such agift, Diana thought in wonder, holding fast to the joy of hertreasured secret, a gift she'd reveal to him with every breath oflove that quietly warmed her heart and body with gentleanticipation.

A commotion around the picnic tables drew both Diana's andVincent's attention from the growing and every more welcometenderness of their joined spirits. With much fanfare, William wasurging all the community back to the meal tables for a special andvery mysterious dessert treat. The lighthearted invitation pulledDiana reluctantly back from her profound thoughts. Vincent seemedequally pleased to remain within the breathless tenderness of eachother's presence. But, there would be plenty of time for thatprecious gift, he mused, with easy contentment. Especially for thisnight.

"I wonder what the surprise could be?" Diana questioned.

Vincent gathered Jacob up into his arms, then lent Diana a hand upfrom the ground. "I have no idea at all."

Father and Mary had, by then, reached the young family and joinedin the speculation. "Do you know anything about this, Vincent?" Theearnest features of his Father were warmed by a bright and slightlybewildered smile.

"All I know is that Henry and Lin wished to treat everyone andsent some mysterious containers from their restaurant for today.Since they couldn't join us, they offered their good wishes and thisinclusion for our meal."

At the main tables, William was in his glory directing the millingcrowd into several lines before him. It appeared that Rebecca,Brooke, and Samantha were also in on the subterfuge, and were placedalong the tables at the heads of the lines.

When William caught sight of Mary, he quickly waved her beforehim. "Here, Mary, you get to inaugurate our treat."

The quiet, gentle lady, hardly used to being singled out in thecrowd, fairly blushed at having been thrust into the center of themystery. With a grand flourish, William lifted the lid off the large,round, waxed cardboard container before him, then reached intoanother box to his side.

"Oh my gracious! Ice cream cones?" Mary's surprised outburst senteveryone to laughing, at both the delight of the rare treat, and theelder lady's own childlike response to its revelation.

The mystery was, indeed, that foreign delight -- vanilla icecream, scooped out of the abundance of the restaurant containers andinto the crisp sugar cones everyone remembered from childhood, enoughfor every single person gathered for the festival. Oh, the communityhad occasionally partaked of such a treat in the past, especially thechildren, but the simple delight had always been reserved for smallportions on infrequent occasions -- a birthday, a sore throat --never on such a grand scale, and with such flamboyant fun.

The girls and William were soon hard at work spooning up thetreats and passing out the cones. Father was as incredulous as Maryhad been. "Good heavens. I haven't had one of these in ages!"

"Isn't quite summer without a stroll and an ice cream cone,"boomed William's enthusiastic voice.

As Father took hold of his cone, he graced Mary with a gentle,mischevious invitation, hinting at the charm and graciousnessinherent in his nature that a lifetime of sometimes burdeningleadership had never quite extinguished. "A stroll. Yes, that is theperfect accompaniment. Will you join me, Mary?"

A bit flustered at having been so publicly acknowledged, thequiet, reticent lady gently took the arm offered her, looking back atDiana with a tender smile. "I believe a walk will be grand, Jacob.Thank you."

With easy, confident steps never once betraying his beleagueredhip, Father guided Mary through the throng of community and up to theriver edge, where they slowly moved along the narrow path, revelingin the natural wonder about them, in the delicious indulgence of theice cream, and in the sheltering presence of each other's hearts.

When Vincent drew his grateful gaze from the elder couple, Dianarealized there was the brightness of relief, joy, and filial loveshowing quite openly in his arresting face. She set her head to hisshoulder gently.

"I don't think I've ever heard Mary call Father by his first namein my entire life," came the wonderfilled words quietly from aboveher.

As they enjoyed the unexpected treat seated in the grass,commenting with those around them on the happy activities of the day,Diana soon realized that there suddenly seemed to be a great deal ofwhispering going on between Vincent and Jacob. The little boyappeared to be asking his father numerous questions of greatimportance, occasionally keeping his mother in complete sight as helistened to his responses with apparent satisfaction.

"All right. What is going on now? Didn't anyone ever teach you twothat it isn't polite to whisper and tell secrets in front ofpeople?"

"We aren't telling secrets, Mama, just finishing up plans," camethe all too innocent reply.

Diana knew she was in trouble at the sound of that one. Herhusband and son looked, for all the world, like a pair of Cheshirecats, and she realized she was in for something completelyunexpected. Probably a dousing in the river, she thought with ashudder. When Vincent drew his arms about her closely, and Jacobbegan to giggle, Diana fully believed herself on the way to a coldplunge, and was ready to consider her revenge.

"Jacob and I have a bit of a surprise for you as well, Diana." Thewarm, low tones of Vincent's voice were at once teasing andpromising. The eloquence of his caressing gaze caused her to rethinkthe possibility of retribution. Her surprise might just be somethingshe'd not want to resist.

"Whatever are you two hatching? Out with it." A sudden jump in herheartbeat had all the makings of a promising response that she wasalready blessing the mysterious plans with.

"Father thought you'd like to go on a hike with him since youcouldn't go the other day when he took Samantha and Jeffrey and Zackto the Crystal Cavern." The little boy's breathless delivery of hismessaage made it all the more endearing. And the fact that Vincenthad presented his plan to her by way of their little son was equallyas inviting. How could she possibly resist anything he might beconsidering?

"Is that what Father thought?" came the to-be-expected, knowing,reply. Vincent's own heart leaped at the unqualified affirmation heread in his wife's spirited, beautiful features, despite her need toprolong his expectation with the contrary independence he treasuredwithin her.

"You've never really had much opportunity to explore our worldbeyond the river here. It's become a tradition for Festival Weekamong us to take time out and share in the wonder of our surroundingsas well as in the wonder of our community life."

The earnest words were gently pleading, as if Vincent needed toconvince her of the welcome promise of his offer. He was still sovery much in awe of their love fulfilled, of the fact that it wastruly theirs at last, that he still hardly ever claimed anything ofit for himself, asked anything of it for himself.

Diana knew his offer for what it was -- the shyly proposedpossibility of time alone together. It was a response to her ownunvoiced needs of the heart. Still, he'd only gift himself by giftingher.

She would see to it that he would be gifted.

"We can't overlook tradition then, can we?" she replied, her heartskipping a beat at the softly embered warmth she read in sapphireeyes that held her own. Its revelation momentarily scattered herthoughts into a dozen beguiling prospects before the practicalitiesof such an activity came into her mother's awareness.

"I would love to join you, Vincent, on an exploration, but whatabout Jacob?" Was there any doubt, though, in her mind at thatinstant, that everything had already been planned out for them?

"Olivia and Kanin have said I can stay with them and Luke untilSunday. Kanin is going to show us the chambers Below were he andFather are working, and Luke said we could build another boat thatwill beat Katy's."

"Till Sunday?" Diana couldn't quite believe her ears. Two nightsand three days? Since their wedding night, she and Vincent had onlymanaged a free evening to themselves every other week when Mary andFather would take their little boy for a special time with his eldersthat the child truly relished. But, even then, his parents had foundthemselves feeling more than a bit guilty about expecting the timefor themselves as a couple, even though they knew how treasured, andimportant, a tender nurturing of their hearts in each other'sbreathless acceptance must be.

"Are you sure it won't be imposing on Olivia and Kanin? They'veonly just now been reunited."

"They suggested it themselves, Diana, or I would never haveasked."

She knew Vincent was telling her the truth. Kanin and Olivia hadbeen apart for three and a half years. Who knew better than they whatit meant for a marriage to embrace precious time to share together asa husband and wife? Diana and Vincent had themselves taken in Lukefor just such a remarkable gift to the tested, beloved couple,several weeks after Kanin had returned. They all understood the acheof separation, and the duality of life as parents as well aslovers.

"Since everything seems to be arranged, then, I simply have toagree, don't I?" came the offhand, bright response. But Vincent readthe expectant gratitude overflowing from her heart with joy. "So,when do we leave?"

"As soon as you are ready," came the unexpected reply.

Diana was perplexed. A trip for three days in their ruggedenvironment -- Wouldn't that require a bit of planning, somesupplies?

Gentle blue eyes met hers with soft amusement at her confusion."Don't worry. We have everything we'll need already along the way. Ibrought extra provisions along when I went with the older children.You'll only need to change your clothes and bring your ownthings."

Diana had to smile at her husband's certainty. It was hardly acharacteristic she was familiar with in him when it came down to hisinteractions with her over the stormy course of their past daystogether. It spoke volumes to her of how far they'd come in theirrelationship, how well they understood one another's hearts -- andhow easily they were now willing to respond to the needs of thosehearts.

She had wanted a special time in which to tell Vincent of thewondrous mercy they would be gifted by from heaven itself, althoughshe was almost certain he knew of her condition already, felt thetender awe she carried within her as well as their child. What betterplace could she find to share her news with him than in the deep andbeautiful mysteries of his world in his arms?

But, suddenly, the thought crossed her mind -- if this outting hadalready been apparently planned for days, could he have truly knownwhat she longed to share with him? She hadn't really been certainherself about being with child until a few days ago. She'd only toldMary this morning, and Olivia the other night.

"Tell me one thing, though, Vincent: How could you have been socertain I'd want to come along that you planned out extra supplies onyour last trip down? When did you decide all this?"

He was entirely capable of entering her heart, wasn't he, joininghis essence to hers as one, she recognized with tender wonder . . .To be loved like that . . . finally like that.

Vincent graced his enigmatic wife with a radiant smile that wasthe tiniest bit triumphant, as well, at her expense. He'd confoundedher again, and she blessed heaven for the evidence of his continueddelight in the humanity they now could so easily, guiltlessly share,crave, and share.

He brought Diana gently into his arms and kissed her softly, thentousled Jacob's angelic curls as he drew the child into his embraceas well. The little boy answered her question with a brightlaugh.

"Last week, after the main steam pipe broke for the thirdtime."

Diana laughed outright, too, as she recalled those nights whenMouse repeatedly had to burst in on them in the wee hours of thenight because of the demonically possessed pipe that refused to stayrepaired. The young engineer's obviously over-apologetic intrusionshad been at once endearing as well as exasperating.

Vincent concluded his motivation for his now completely reassuredand visibly expectant wife. "After three nights of Mouse'scompanionship at two in the morning, no matter how much I treasurehis friendship, I believed you and I needed some time away.

Deserved it, actually."

The softly challenging, and promising, radiance in the certaintyof that reply warmed Diana's spirit to its very depths, as did therest of her husband's hardly hesitant explanation. "I'd rather beawakened by your tender presence at such an ungodly hour than Mouse'sheadlamps any day."

"I'll be ready in fifteen minutes." Diana's fervant response wasall that was required.