His beeper was going off. Beep, beep, beep. It wouldn't stop. He hit it and still the noise continued. He hammered it against the desk, but nothing stopped it. It must be some devil possessed electrical device. Beep. Stop it, he thought, just stop it. Beep.... beep..... beep. The maddeningly monotonous sound felt like an ear splitting metronome. Rearing back he threw it--

"Jack!" Jennifer yelled as she threw his arm off of her and he suddenly suddenly found himself hurtling toward the floor. Landing with a loud thump he realized he was wedged in the space between the bed and the wall.

"Ugh!" he grunted. "What was that for?"

"You were having a nightmare," she muttered sleepily as she covered her head with a pillow and went back to sleep.

Beep.

Jack frowned. The sound was still there.

Beep..... Beep.... Beep.

That's it. He'd had it. Lunging to his feet he threw open the tiny bedroom window that opened onto a tiny alley and yelled down at the garbage truck lifting the dumpster below him, "I don't care what the health department says, you do not have to pick up that damn dumpster every morning at the crack of dawn!"

The garbage man made an obscene gesture with his hand. Shoving into his truck the last curry scented garbage bag from the dumpster labeled "Taj India,' the city worker answered, "Tell it to the city council, buddy. I don't make my route."

"I'll have you know I used to be on the city council!"

The garbage man chuckled. "Yeah, right." He made a circling gesture indicating that Jack was nuts and climbed back into his truck.

Jennifer peaked from beneath her pillow, "You've told him that every morning for the last week, what makes you think it will make any difference now?"

"Persistence is a virtu-- Ow!"

Fluffing the pillow Jennifer sat up. "What now?"

"I stumped my toe. There isn't room to walk in this bedroom much less think."

"I didn't think walking or thinking was a high priority in a bedroom."

Jack muttered something incomprehensible under his breath as he stood on the bed.... which was the only way to open the closet door. The sad fact was the king sized bed that had been so comfortable in the Penthouse now managed to go almost wall to wall in their new bedroom. There was perhaps a foot and a half of space on each side of the bed, and two feet at the foot of it.

"Where are you going?" She asked as he took his suit from the closet and hobbled from the room.

"To take a shower and go to work. I can at least stand up and pace in my office."

He disappeared from the room leaving Jennifer to stare after him. The last week and a half had been a disheartening experience she never wanted to relive. Jack wasn't happy. He made that clear constantly. He hated the apartment. He hated microwavable Stouffer's Dinners -- which were the only things she really knew how to cook -- and he hated the situation between them. He didn't hate the baby. She was absolutely certain of that. He couldn't hate the baby. He had to love the baby and he undoubtedly loved her.... but he hated their predicament. Their timing was off, and he was unhappy that things weren't perfect for them. He was uncomfortable.... and they were awkward together. They -- who never had problems finding an infinite number of words -- were suddenly tongue tied around one another. She didn't know what to say to him to make things better. He didn't know how to make things better and so didn't know what to say. And they were stuck. As stuck as the closet door next to the bed which they could never seem to close all the way.

She stared at the door in the dim early morning light. She frowned. She didn't think the door was straight and that was why it wouldn't shut. How exactly did one straighten a door?

"Jennifer!!!!!!" Jack called from the bathroom. "We're out of hot water.... again!"

"What do you want me to do about it?"

"Did you call the super?"

"I called the super."

"And?" Jack questioned impatiently.

"And he said to use less hot water."

Jack cursed colorfully and walked into the bedroom soaking wet and only wearing a towel. Jennifer almost had to smile.

"You know they're are laws against being slum lords," he announced. "Does he know that I run a newspaper? I could run an editorial about this. What am I saying, I could run a series of editorials about--"

"Leaky toilets, radiator pipes that bang when the heat is turned on, and faulty water heaters? I don't think it's Ferraro award material, Jack."

"Maybe not, but journalism is supposed to defend the downtrodden and right now we are the downtrodden."

"You're dripping on the floor, Jack."

"So what? It's not going to ruin cheap linoleum."

Suddenly she was exhausted. "Go to work, Jack. Please, just go to work." She collapsed back into the bed.

He frowned and took a tentative step toward the bed with a concerned look on his face.

"I'm fine," she reassured him. "I could just use some peace and quiet."

"Uh.... all right then." He disappeared back into the bathroom.

She must have drifted off sometime around then because when she came awake again the clock was flashing seven and the apartment was quiet. Great, she was going to be late again. Dan was just going to love that. Nothing she did lately seemed to please Dan and her increasing exhaustion in the mornings lead her to constantly be late wasn't helping one bit. She tried so hard to put a good face on everything for Jack. If she could convince him that not being rich wasn't the end of the world he could allow himself to be happy about the baby. If he could see that they weren't going to end up on the street homeless in a week, and that they weren't on the verge of fighting to keep the clothes on their backs he wouldn't have that frown line developing between his brows. If only things weren't the way they were, things would be so different.... She and Jack could be happy about the baby. They could look forward to the future instead of dreading balancing the checkbook or looking at their credit card bills. She would have to work harder toward convincing Jack that they were fine just the way they were. They had enough with their jobs and just with each other.... which was true. She just wished it was a little easier to believe it.

After dragging herself to the shower and getting dressed, Jennifer felt much better. Perhaps today she could get past 3 PM without needing a nap. As she picked up her keys, she noticed her filofax open on today's page. She glanced down the list of things to do and saw that she didn't have to be at the studio until ten. Why didn't she think of that before she got dressed. For a few seconds she contemplated how to fill in the time and then decided that she'd be better getting that research done early than sitting around this dumpy apartment. Yes work was the answer for both of them. Anything to get out of the dreariness.

She picked up her car keys and within minutes was pulling out onto the road. She clicked on the radio just in time to hear the 8:30 headlines. "Detective Brian Scofield has regained consciousness and he is expected to give a statement to the police in the next few hours." Jennifer was excited. Brian was going to be okay and she knew that would make all the difference to Vern's recovery and that in turn would brighten up Jack. Despite the yelling that went on between Vern and Jack, they were as close as a father and son could be. She smiled to herself and decided that seeing Brian was a much better idea than research. She turned off at the next corner and headed straight to the hospital.

Brian had been moved out of ICU and was in an observation ward next door. As she pushed open the door to Brian's room she heard a thud and a cry of pain. Jack was standing right behind the door and the door handle had hit his arm. "Jack? I'm sorry I didn't know you were...." Jack held his finger up to his lips, indicating for her to stop talking. He signaled the bed with his eyes. Vern was sitting next to Brian holding his hand. Brian, although conscious, was less than fully awake and coherent. He struggled for words. "Dad, oh dad, thanks for being here."

Vern smiled at Brian's words. "Listen son, where else would I be? You know, you sure had us all worried. That explosion, it....well one of the guards was killed. I've been so worried that I'd lose you son. So worried. You know you're my whole life, you kids. Since your mother...." Vern's voice broke as he thought of the sadness that his wife's suicide had brought to the family. It had happened years ago but sometimes it was like yesterday to Vern. Brian heard the pain in Vern's words and changed the subject. "Hey there....Jack, what are you doing standing up the back like that. It's not like you. Usually we....we don't get a word in edgewise with you around."

Jack half grinned. He and Brian always had a bit of a silent competition going on when it came to Vern. Jack thought carefully before replying. "Well, you know, a person doesn't like to come between a man and his son, especially at times like this."

Vern turned to Jack and for the first time, noticed Jennifer was there too. "Jenny girl, now there's just the person I want to see. I haven't even had a chance to congratulate you. I can't wait to see this boy here with a baby of his own. You have your work cut out for you, you know Jennifer. Now you'll have two kids. The way you have to deal with Jack is to...."

Jack butted in. "Watch those shoes Vern! You know how rough my previous fathers have been." Vern grinned and was about to make a smart comment back when Brian sighed heavily as if in pain. Instantly Vern's whole attention was back on Brian as if Jack didn't exist. Jennifer glanced at Jack and noticed the flicker in his eye as he observed the bond that existed between Vern and Brian. No close friendship in the world could come close to that parent-child bond. Instinctively she touched her stomach. She had that bond already. She just wished that Jack had it too. He seemed to sense her thoughts and turned his eyes to her hand as she massaged her stomach. He gave her a momentary smile that lifted her heart. Yes he did love the baby. It was definitely all timing that had them so distant. Only timing. She reached over to take his hand as the door swung open again and Jo walked in.

"Oh Brian, I'm so glad to see those wonderful eyes of yours. Vern how is he doing?....Oh Jack, Jennifer, what are you doing here? My goodness you do have a roomful Brian." She walked straight past Jack and over to Vern, resting her hand on his shoulder. "Vern dear, how are you feeling? You should have told me you were coming down. I would have driven you."

Brian looked puzzled. "Dad, have you been sick?" Before Vern could get a word in, Jo filled Brian in on Vern's injuries. "Dad you should have told me before," Brian replied

Vern smiled. "Well Brian, I could hardly do that when you were unconscious. Anyway enough about me. I'm on the mend. You can't kick an old dog like me and keep him down for long. Anyway with Jack back in the office I have to get better fast. You know you can't let him loose around that place without something going wrong. Only kidding Jack, only kidding." Jack rolled his eyes.

Jo began to straighten Brian's sheets and plump his pillows as Vern and he talked about Tanner and Cassie and getting the family back together. Jack leaned back on the wall and his thoughts wandered to his own family and how there was nothing much to get back together. Steve was gone, Duke never deserved to be included and now there was only he and Jo, who was more interested in Brian at this point than him. Jennifer sensed Jack's unease at watching Jo fuss so much as well as Vern's intense concentration on Brian. She gently took his hand and placed it on her stomach. He looked down at her and sighed a sigh of frustration and pain that things were not like they should be but he was trying. She grinned back but in the corner of her eye there was a tear for her, Jack, the baby and the cavern of mixed feelings that lay between them all.

All the occupants of the room sensed the silence and Jo was first to react. "Jack, now tell me, how do you like the new apartment? I know there is a lot less room but just think how quick it will be to clean. You and Jennifer will have such fun in such a....snug atmosphere. Yes that's it, snug."

Jack glared at her. "Snug? I think the word you're looking for is cramped, dull, or even downright depressing." Jo walked over to Jack and brushed the hair back from his forehead. "Jack, you mustn't let it get you down. A big home is not the only way to happiness. What matters is what goes on inside, not the walls around you." She patted his arms and then gave him a hug. "I can't tell you how much I love you Jack and how proud I am that you're going to be a father."

Jack was embarrassed at Jo being so public about her affection for him but inside he felt a warm glow. He needed Jo more than life itself. Before he had a chance to say a word, she turned back to Vern and stood behind him. He reached up and took her hand and they stood like a real couple watching Brian. Jack stiffened. He hated it when he felt jealous. To Jack it was a childish and immature emotion that he could never admit to. He had to get out of there.

"Jennifer, we should be going."

"But Jack, I just got here. I haven't had a chance to talk to Brian, or even Jo and Vern," Jennifer replied.

"Well you'll get a chance next time. Come on. Goodbye all, we must be off to work to earn enough to get out of the dump we now call home." Jack took Jennifer's arm and pulled open the door. Vern struggled to his feet. "Jack....Jack, can you give me a minute before you leave?" Vern limped outside with Jack while Jennifer stood aside to let them talk.

Vern whispered, "Jack, thank you for coming down. I know it's hard for you to turn up at times like this but I really appreciate it. I really do." Without hesitation he wrapped his arms around Jack and gave him a hug.

"Vern! Not here in public. What will people think?" Jack shook Vern loose. Vern laughed. "Jack one day, one of these days, you'll realize that we all love you....despite the way you push us away." Shaking his head, Vern went back into Brian's room. Jennifer walked over to Jack and smiled at him. He pretended to be puzzled. "What?"

She shook her head just like Vern. "Nothing Jack, nothing. Nothing at all. Come on let's get to work." She took his arm and pulled him towards the elevator. He leaned over and whispered to her. "By the way, what's with this Jo and Vern thing?"

"What are you talking about Jack? What Jo and Vern thing?"

"Everytime you mention Jo, Vern follows right behind. Jo and Vern, Jo and Vern, Jo and Vern. Anybody would think they were a couple."

She looked him straight in the eye. "Jack, they are a couple. You're the only one in denial." She stepped into the empty elevator repeating the three words that Jack hated. "Jo and Vern, Jo and Vern....Vern and Jo, Vern and Jo."

"You really delight in annoying me don't you?" said Jack.

"Jack darling, father of my child, husband extraordinaire, award winning publisher, lover of extreme talent, would I ever annoy you on purpose?"

"Darling? What's with the darling? The other names I can live with but darling."

She started blowing noisy kisses at him which further increased his annoyance. She was still doing it when the elevator door opened in the main lobby. Jennifer grinned at the surprised faces waiting to get in and said, "He's gorgeous, isn't he? Just gorgeous." They all stepped aside as she walked through followed by a very red faced Jack.

"You're late."

Jennifer skidded to a halt and looked over her shoulder. Lenny, the security guard just looked at her with a glint of mischief in his eyes. "You're late but I won't tell the boss."

"Thanks," she whispered with gratitude. Waiving at him she tried to walk as silently as possible across the studio given the fact that the floor was sealed concrete and she was wearing three inch heels. She hoped to make it to her desk before Dan saw her or noted that she was late.

Successfully having made it to her desk she smiled in triumph until she saw the post-it in the middle of her computer monitor. "Cover the daughter's of the American Revolution luncheon today at 1 and the Teenage Mutant Ninja movie is opening this afternoon at 3. Cover the kiddie craze," was scrawled across a series of three notes. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles? And they had a movie? And she was supposed to cover it?! Anger began to simmer inside her and then boil. Enough was enough. She was going to march into Dan's office and tell him that if he didn't take her off these fluff pieces she was going to.... going to.... what? Given hers and Jack's financial situation she couldn't exactly quit. She could not even afford to bluff that she might quit. Jack had taught her -- more than once -- that your opponent was frequently willing to call your bluff.

Fine. Okay then. She would just go to Dan and talk to him. Reasonably, or at least as reasonably as she could when being assigned to cover the opening of a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle movie. She stood and walked deliberately across the studio. Just as she raised her hand to knock on Dan's office door she heard, "Oooh, Danny boy, talk dirty to me."

Jennifer's hand stopped in mid air as she mouthed in disbelief, "Danny boy talk dirty to me???"

"Mmmmmm" came a deep feminine groan.

Oh my God! Jennifer thought as her eyes widened just before she took a step back from the door.

"That's sooooooo good, Danny."

Jennifer glanced frantically from her right to her left searching for escape.

"Oh! Danny!" the voice squealed.

Jennifer eyes narrowed. Wait a minute. She knew that voice. She loathed that voice. That was--

"Hey there--"

"Jack!" she squeaked as she stumbled into his arms. "What are you doing here?"

"Looking for Dan the man. Have you seen him?"

"Um.... no. No, I haven't seen him," she mumbled.

"Guess I'll just have to hunt for him. Hey D--"

Jennifer slapped her hand across Jack's mouth and went, "Shh! Dan's.... um.... indisposed at the moment."

"What's he doing? Having a nooner?"

Jennifer colored up a bright beet red and Jack's eyes widened as he realized, "He is having a nooner."

"I said sh!"

Jack started to snicker.

"Don't laugh," Jennifer snapped with irritation. "It's with Madeline."

"Ms. Butter-wouldn't-melt-in-her-mouth-and-ice-cubes-wouldn't-either, Madeline? Crossfire Madeline?"

"No, the let's-steal-all-of-Jennifer's-airtime Madeline. Who do you think I'm talking about?"

Jack stepped back and jammed his hands into his pockets. "Well that explains a lot. I guess when you were being screwed out a story you were literally--"

"Sh!"

"You keep saying that."

"And you don't listen. And.... And why are you here?"

Jack walked around her then up to the set of the news. "Well, see, I was sitting at my desk at The Spectator when an idea came to me. You know my political commentating was pretty popular around here once upon a time and it is an election year."

"You're going to ask for a job from Dan?" she realized with horror.

"Well, I was going to, but now.... How does the word 'blackmail' strike you?"

Jennifer's eyes grew huge. "You wouldn't?"

"No, dear wife, you wouldn't. Me on the other hand...."

"You wouldn't!"

He crossed his arms. "Let's be pragmatic here for a moment. A job is money. Money is help and--"

"It's wrong! And.... and you're joking. You are joking aren't you, Jack? Jack?"

"Jack!" Dan called out as he walked toward the set. "Long time no see."

"Well the stories of my death were exaggerated," Jack drawled.

"I can see that. Just don't become too comfortable in that chair. It's almost time for the midday report. Madeline? Has anyone seen Madeline?"

"I don't know," Jack said smoothly. "Has anyone seen Madeline? Jennifer, have you--"

"No. Most definitely not. Uh-uh."

"I'm right here," Madeline said in her calm announcer's voice. Not a single strand of hair was out of place and she looked as cool and composed as anyone could imagine.

"Right then," Dan said crisply. "The crew is here. Jack, you should probably vacate that chair."

"But it's so comfortable."

He's joking, Jennifer assured herself. Jack was just taunting her just as she had taunted him at the hospital. He wouldn't try to blackmail her boss. That would be insane. That would be self destructive that would.... She gulped. No, no she would not allow herself to consider for one moment that Jack would do anything as preposterous as blackmailing Dan. Jack was just yanking her chain and she was not going to let him get away with it.

"Five minute mark," a crewman called. "Everyone take their places."

Dan looked over at Jennifer, "Do you have that story on the humane society Doo-da parade ready, Jennifer? We may need that for filler if the noon report runs short."

"No, I thought--"

"Don't think," Dan snapped. "Oh well, what we have will just be enough. Everyone take their places."

Madeline took her seat. Jennifer climbed to the set and glared at Jack. "Up," she commanded.

"But I like it here," he said with a devilish grin.

"Jack Harcourt Deveraux, my patience is wearing thin. Up!

He must have seen that she was serious because he stood and walked to stand behind the camera.

"Okay, everyone," the crewman called. "A minute and counting.... Cue theme music."

CHAPTER FOUR: WATB STUDIOS, NEWSROOM.

They were on a commercial break, which meant there were only several minutes left, and Jennifer had yet to do her piece. She scanned the studio for Dan. She needed to talk with him -- it was bad enough that she was assigned a fluff piece, but now it appeared that even that was to be taken from her. Just then her nose twitched, pizza, she felt like heaving -- ever since her pregnancy smells were not only intensified but torturous for her. And not only did she feel nauseous again -- or rather still (for two weeks now) -- but she felt bloated and her ankles and feet were killing her. The apartment was depressing. Jack was distant. Her job was losing its thrill. Out of the corner of her eye she could see Madeline priming and smirking. She felt like crying. She felt like screaming. Her senses, her thoughts, her emotions were overpowering her.

Madeline leaned over and, "Jenn are you feeling okay. You look a little ill," she said affecting a concerned tone and expression. "It must be difficult being pregnant, with morning sickness. If you are not up to doing the piece on the parade. I of course will cover for you. I don't think that Danny.... Dan wouldn't mind."

I bet you would. You back-stabbing tramp. Jennifer flashed a false smile. "You're too kind...." she clinched her teeth, "....and considerate. But I feel fine. Really. I want to do this piece." Jennifer turned away. I'm not going to throw up; I'm not going to throw up, she repeated to herself. Though the thought of doing so all over Madeline was rather tempting.

The set director began counting down from thirty. She scanned over the script on the Doo-dah parade. Just then she saw Dan and Jack walk in together. Jennifer sighed, and massaged her temples. She could not believe that Jack actually was blackmailing her boss -- no correction it was Jack, of course she believed it.

The countdown reached zero and after a short recap of news, it was Jennifer's turn, "Yesterday was the Humane Society of Salem's 5th annual Doo-dah parade. A time when the pets of Salem dress up and show off their owners...." As she spoke the monitor flashed scenes of the parade, dogs, cats, Vietnamese pot bellied pigs, ferrets, and a variety of other species in costumes along with their owners -- there were characters from Star Trek, Star Wars, Dr. Who, at least two Nixons, and more. My god, this is awful She paused for a few moments to get her courage. She was going to show them all; and win back her position.

Jennifer continued, "Though for some participants.... for some participants the event...." She paused again, trying to come up with the right words to salvage this piece into newsworthy journalism. "....the event was a way to get across their very important political messages.

Meanwhile Dan and Jack were still talking. Dan stopped in mid-sentence, "What the hell. What about the....the.... the.... pet costume contest. There's nothing about political activism. Dan waved frantically towards Jennifer -- but she ignored him.

Jennifer continued, "Many animal rights' groups used the parade as a forum to inform the public about vegetarianism; big corporations use of animals as test subjects, to be mercilessly tortured in pursuit of the all powerful dollar; and the growing lists of endanger species and destruction of animal habitats again for corporate profits...."

Dan was having apoplexy, "Jack, do something, for godssake. Can't you control your own wife."

Jack looked at him in disbelief, "Yeah right...." Jack stopped, and a smile spread across his face. He ran over to the news desk, and literally shoved Madeline out of her chair. He sat down, arranged his tie, and sat up erect affecting a professional stance. Dan sank to the floor. Madeline was too confused to do anything. The whole crew was in shock. Jennifer stopped and flashed Jack a look that could very easily kill, "What are you doing, you're ruining everything," she whispered through her clinched teeth?"

Jennifer continued, "As I was saying for many the parade -- despite its frivolity -- had a serious theme, getting across the message that big corporations and their obsession of money and profits are endangering---"

Jack interrupted, "Oh Pulllleeeze. Save us from more of that political correct tree hugging, bleeding heart, knee jerk crap."

Dan was trying to cut to a commercial. However, Jack shouted "Don't you dare or your station and whole network will find themselves involved in a mucho big lawsuit." Jennifer looked towards Dan, and nodded in agreement.

Now Jennifer responded, "Oh, Mr. Deveraux, the mouthpiece of corporate greed. It's no longer the excessive 'Greed is good' 80s. It's the more compassionate 90s. I say it's better to have a 'bleeding heart' than no heart, like you and--"

"Jennifer, as I said before, spare us the clap trap, cliché, tripe, hypocrisy. What's wrong with animal research? It has brought about the cure for many disease--"

"We're not talking about that. They are arguing the torturing of animals to test products to make money. That's the only thing you and your kind think -- money. Well Jack there is more to life than money--"

"What's wrong with wanting to make money, or even lots of money. To live in this world, and to live well and happily, the fact is you need money. All the nauseatingly sentimental greeting card sayings don't negate the simple fact that you need money to live, for food, for shelter, for happiness. Money buys you these things. You knee jerk liberal types, you turn up your nose at money, acting all superior. But it is money and industry that made America great -- the Fords, Rockerfellers, and now the Gates are what made the country what it is today. Jack started to sing, 'God bless America, land that I love.'"

Jack flashed her a smug smile. She glared back at him, and clinched her fist; Oh, what I wouldn't give, Mr. Deveraux, to knock that smile off that smug, obnoxious face of yours, she thought to herself. "You're right there's nothing wrong with money, but there are more important things to life. Like love. A family. A child. These are what makes America great not corporations, not money--"

"No without money you lose your house. You lose all your positions. You are constantly battling with bill collectors and the bank. You live in a shabby depressing apartment. You eat wretched frozen dinners. How can love grow in such an environment -- it can't. You have no self-respect and no one has respect for you."

Jennifer tried to hide her pain, "You're wrong. Money doesn't buy happiness. It doesn't buy true love. The love of unborn child--"

Just then the stage director moved his hand across his neck, signaling cut, the news was over. A furious Dan walked over to Jack and Jennifer. "What the hell was all that. That's the most unprofessional exhibition I have ever seen in my life--"

Jack slapped Dan on the back, "I agree old Danny-Boy, the little woman really made a fool out of herself--" Just then Jennifer spiked Jack's foot with her heel and he shouted in pain.

Now Jennifer spoke, "I.... I.... I was just doing some editing and making this fluff piece into something newsworthy. You, Jack.... and don't you ever call me that again..... you're the unprofessional obnoxious, jerk."

Dan rubbed his forehead, "I can't deal with you two now. Okay.... you both were an embarrassment. Jack I could understand, but you ," indicating Jennifer. "I have a headache and I am not in the mood to discuss it now. Tomorrow, Jennifer before work, in my office. And don't forget you have two more assignments today."

"Dan the Man, what about the Crossfire piece?" Jack shouted as Dan stormed off.

Madeline, who had been listening in with a pleased smile on her face, took off following Dan.

Jack and Jennifer looked at each other, the gulf that had existed between them the past two weeks now wider. Jack could see the pain in Jennifer's eyes, but he was at a loss as to how to console, how her to apologize; and it tore him apart, "Jennifer?"

For a moment Jennifer said nothing, then sighed, "We really screwed up this time. I have to rush I still have two assignments to do today. Probably my last. So, excuse me I am already late." Then as almost an afterthought, "Oh, are you going to be working late again tonight or do you think you'll be home for dinner?"

Looking at the pain in her eyes, Jack hated himself. He had to work, the paper still was in a precarious situation, he still could lose it; he had to get it back into shape and he had to get them financially solvent again so that he could give her and the baby all they deserved. That was why he had been working so much lately. "No, I'll be home tonight. That is if you want me to?", uncertain of her reply.

"Of course I do Jack," she said awkwardly. "I.... I have to go, I'm already late and I can't afford to tick off Dan anymore today." She walked away without them exchanging their customary kiss.

Jack walked over to the news desk and sat down. He sat there in thought for a few moments, not noticing that someone had walked over to him -- Isabella. "If it isn't Mr. Deveraux.... I said if it isn't Mr. Deveraux."

"Jack looked up confused. "Isabella?" Jack looked at her, "Looking rather large these days.

"Yes. I'm pregnant. That happens to women when they're going to have a baby," she laughed. "Soon your wife will look like this too."

This caused Jack's expression, which was already very gloomy, to become even more gloomy.

Jack didn't say anything, but watched as she had a difficult time sitting down next to him. "So, what brings you here?" He finally asked.

"Oh, I was just talking to the producer, Mr. Leonard, about helping me promote the charity I started up."

"I guess you saw the fiasco then." Isabella nodded. "I really screwed up -- again -- Jennifer lost her job. And she probably will never want to speak with me."

"Yeah, well, you can't blame her. Frankly, Mr. Deveraux, you acted like a first class jerk." Jack looked over towards her surprised. She continued, "Jack, it's a difficult time. She's pregnant, her body is changing constantly. When you're pregnant you are emotional. For the first few months you're constantly sick. She's confused. She needs your patience, support, and most of all love."

"I know. And I want more than anything.... but.... how? The fact is we're broke. I don't know if it is the right time to have a baby. And then there's my history. You know my parentage. What kind of parent would I make with the examples I've had. I guess things are different with you, Ro.... John has always been the parental type. Always been able to express his emotions--" Jack stopped, he noticed the change in Isabella's expression, the sadness that she tried to hide.

"Yeah.... John has been a help. But right now.... he has his own problems. Finding out he isn't who he thought he was. His past's a mystery to him. He's.... He went off to Switzerland trying to find his past to give an identity to our child."

Jack felt even worse. Jennifer had told him that John had been away with some woman from his past. But he thought had returned.

Isabella continued to speak, interrupting his thoughts, "But it's okay. I trust him. And I know things will be alright. For all of us -- that includes you and Jennifer. Jack, I'm so sorry about your financial problems. I know it is a concern. But don't let it be. All that matters is that you and Jennifer are together. She's pregnant, and a new life is growing inside her. There is nothing more wondrous than that. We both grew up with more money then we could use, you and I; but it is now that we have what matters, we have found love. We have a real family," she paused for a few moments. "Anyway, I have to go. But remember you once thought that you weren't good enough for Jennifer and you were wrong--"

Yeah right , I lost all our money, Jennifer's trust fund, and then I just ran off for months--"

"Jack! I know that you will prove to be a wonderful father. Anyway, I have to go." She kissed Jack on the cheek.

Jack turned red, "What will my wife say?"

She just smiled at him, "Jack!"

She walked off, but Jack could tell that despite how much she tried, she was going through a difficult time. John should be there for her he thought. And then Jack became frustrated at his own hypocrisy.

---

(Air date April 26, 2000)

CHAPTER FIVE: FISHERMEN'S WHARF.

After what just happened at the studio Jennifer needed some time to think. She found herself walking around the Fishermen's Wharf, windw shopping -- with their present situation, sadly, that was all she could do. Meanwhile, Isabella too was walking around thinking about her own situation. Just then Isabella spotted Jennifer; seeing her Isabella called out to her, "Hey Jennifer, what else is going with you, huh?"

"Well I guess I might as well tell you because you're going to find out sooner or later. Jack and I had an argument on the air, on the news, so I'll probably be fired first thing in the morning."

"What? Oh I'm so sorry. I know that everything is so rough for you guys right now."

"You know what, I don't even want to talk about it right now, actually. Let's talk about something happy. Let's talk about you and John."

Isabella was equally reluctant to talk about her own situation: she was very pregnant and unmarried, and John was off trying to discover his identity and past. "Okay.... um."

"What.... I guess not, huh."

Trying to put on a brave face, "No it's not.... it's not bad," Replied Isabella, "we're just working through a lot of stuff right now, so it's just one day at a time." Just then Isabella felt the baby kick and she let out a groan, "Oooh!"

"What's the matter, are you okay?"

"No, here give me your hand, give me your hand."

"Why?" Jennifer asked.

Isabella took Jennifer's hand and place it on her stomach so that Jennifer could feel the baby, "Right there."

Just then the baby kicked again, and Jennifer felt it, "Oh! Oh I can't believe that."

"Well, believe it because pretty soon you're going to be feeling that. Oh it's the most amazing feeling, this new life growing inside of you." Isabella detected that something was bothering Jennifer and that she needed to talk with someone, "Oh, Jennifer?"

"Huh?" With their financial situation and Jack's uncertainties about the baby Jennifer needed to talk with Isabella, despite what she had just said, "Isabella, if you had a choice, I mean if you could choose now, knowing what you know, would you do anything different?

"Absolutely not. I mean I'm not going to lie to you. When I first found out I was pregnant it was really terrible. And I had second thoughts, and I had third thoughts and fourth thoughts. And I almost did something about it."

Needing reassurance, "But you changed your mind."

'Yes I did. Having this baby in my life and my love for John has made all the difference, all the difference."

 

Meanwhile back at Wings, Jack was at the bar thinking as mechanically munched on the free nuts at the bar. Just then Jo walked in, and spotting him, she walked over. "Jack"

Looking up, "Oh, you must have seen our little duet on the news today?"

Lovingly with her fingers she brushed his hair into place; and then sat down. "Are you all right? Is

Jennifer all right?"

"We'll survive.... maybe.... later."

"Well what exactly does that mean?"

"It means that Jennifer's incredibly intelligent boss Dan wasn't particularly entertained by our duet on the news and.... it looks like he might fire her."

 

"Oh Jack."

"And the beat goes on."

"Oh I wish that I had money. I would give it all to you right now." She loved her son deeply and she would do anything for him. It pained her that she could not help.

"No, please. I am sorry I ever brought any of that up with you."

"Is there anything I can do for you?"

Jack needed to ask this question, though part of him feared her answer, "Well actually maybe there is. You could.... you could answer a question for me. That would help."

"Anything. "

"If you had a chance to do it all over again, would you? I mean I'm not talking about Duke of course."

"No, I'm.... I know what you mean. You're talking about you, Adrienne and Steve." She paused but only for the briefest of moments, "The answer is no. Not for one second."

"all right, I don't think you understand why I'm asking. I'm asking because you know how it feels to be broke, to have no money, to have to, you know, give up your family, and give them away and--"

"Jack, Jack, money has nothing to do with it. I didn't give you and Steve away because we were poor. I... I have you up.... I mean.... well I did manage to keep you kids together for a while at least. You see I wanted you to survive. And I was so afraid of Duke and what he would do. Now I'm.... I made the right decision, I made the only decision, because you did survive and we're here and we're together. So I was right. I've had some.... dark days Jack but I managed to see them through. And I know why now. It was the love I had for you kids. Steve and Adrienne, you. That gave me strength: Family. And I want you to remember that. I want you to think about that." As she was speaking Jack listened intently, greatly affected by her words. Her words dispelled his worst fears and gave him a small degree of hope for Jennifer and his future.

A short while later, Jack and Jo were walking around Fishermen's Wharf. Jo noticed Jennifer, who was sitting alone, lost in thought and looking out over the river. Jo pointed Jennifer out to Jack. Seeing her Jack told Jo, "Perhaps I should go talk to her."

"Do you want me to go with you? "

"No, no, that won't be necessary. I think it's best I do this alone."

"Yes, you should. Jack, please be honest with her.

"all right," He replied.

Jo seeing the looking in Jack's eyes leaned over and his his cheek. "Call me."

"Across the hall," he joked. Jo walked away. Jack walked towards Jennifer. By this time she had noticed them, but was just as reluctant and uncertain as he was. "You can see me coming. That's all right," he said as he walked up to her. "I take it you have a free seat here." Since she did not object he sat down next to her. Neither was quite certain where or how to begin.

"You know you didn't have to send Jo away like that."

"Oh believe me, I did. I thought it best if we talk alone -- uninterrupted."

"You know we could really be in big trouble this time."

Soberly, "I know."

"And it's my fault as much as it is yours. I mean Dan was right. I was being immature and completely unprofessional."

"No, no, no. You were just.... you were doing what you felt was right."

"Right for me. I was being really selfish Jack. But the thing is that we can't afford.... we can't afford to think like that anymore because we have to be responsible for somebody other than ourselves right now."

Nodding in agreement, "You're right."

"We have someone else's future to think about."

"But it's our future too."

Jennifer took his hand and placed it on her stomach. Jack looked at her with confusion; he frowned, "Ah, is this some kind of, um, important ritual? Do you rub it and make a wish or something?"

"Can you feel anything?" She asked.

"Heh, certainly I can feel something. I can feel.... you."

"Well in time you'll be feeling the baby." She paused, "You know we have to remember what our life is about now."

 

"Certainly, I mean we will. That's a promise. We're all growing here."

"Some of us in more ways than one. They both smiled at her joke."

"Yes," Jack replied.

"But we'll grow together," she told him. That was all that mattered to her. That was all she had ever wanted. Despite their financial problems, despite other uncertainties, they were together; and they both loved each other deeply.

"Together," he repeated. Their financial situation still troubled him; his own fears still hung over him. But for that moment all that mattered was they were indeed, "together."

"Yeah," she smile.

 

After sitting together and talking on the bench in Fishermen's Wharf the tension had eased between Jack and Jennifer. They had walked into the apartment arm and arm, but as soon as Jack entered the room his expression changed. He became somber and distant. Though he had tried to hide it, Jennifer could sense it all throughout their dinner -- a dinner in which few words passed between them. Jack then had mechanically helped clean up, again saying very little. Now, the dishes having been washed and put away, Jack spoke, "Look, I just realized that there still is a ton of stuff to edit for tomorrow's paper, plus paper work. And with Vern having been away and probably out for awhile longer, that leaves it up to me. You know I talked myself blue in the face trying to convince the bank to give me back control and to trust me to pay back the rest of what I owe." Jack looked away, he knew his excuses sounded feeble, it killed him seeing the hurt on Jennifer's face, but he had to get way, the apartment was oppressive.

Jennifer watched Jack, she noticed him looking around the room in disgust. She noticed how he would glance at her already expanding stomach, and then look away. She was going to only get bigger, and uglier; then she really would turn Jack off. No, she shook the thoughts away. She was just being overly emotional. She knew Jack. She understood Jack. She had never known a man as loving and gentle. She realized their present situation was hard on him. He loved her, and he loved the baby. He just lacked the confidence to see all that she saw in him.

Jack put on his coat, and walked over and kissed her forehead. "I won't be long. I promise." Just as he was about to walk out the door the phone rang. Jack stopped, "You sit down and rest, I'll get it. It's probably just someone trying to get us to change our long distance provider."

"Hello, Deveraux residence. Mrs. Horton.... What.... yes." Jennifer watched and listened to Jack. He continued to answer in monosyllabic words, and his expression turned dark. "Right.... Okay." Jack hung-up.

Jennifer saw that something was bothering Jack, "What's wrong? What did my grandmother have to say?"

She....she," Jack was very emotional. "....she called from the hospital!"

Jennifer jumped up, "My God, Jack it isn't my grandfather?" Jack shook his head. "My mother? Father? Your mother.... Adrienne?"

Jack shook his head again. "No." He lovingly patted her hand and he eased her back onto the couch. "It was...." Jack's voice choked, "It's Brian.... ummm.... He was doing better, you know this morning. And then well the rest of the day he seemed to be improving. Then several hours ago, he just.... died."

Jack sat down next to her, "Brian? No.... and Vern.... my God.... he must be.... I can't even begin to imagine what it feels to lose your child," she unconsciously placed her hand on her stomach. As she spoke Jack felt a pain shoot through his body, he mentally shook away the thought from his mind.

"But he was doing so much better.... The doctors all said he was going to be alright. What happened?"

They don't know.... The clout or whatever probably still was there and...."

"Poor Brian. All he did for us Jack. He helped us with Hawk. We couldn't have done it without him." Jack nodded in agreement. "And then on the train and in the woods--"

"Yeah, Inspector Clousseau, Jr. and Ranger Rick of the Yukon." Just this morning Jack felt jealous of Brian; now he felt terrible for his pettiness."

Jennifer began to cry. He placed his arm around her and held her. "It's okay to cry, I'm here.... I'm not much, but I'm here."

Jennifer, with her tear filled eyes, looked up at him; seeing her cry broke his heart. "....But it does matter, Jack I just can't stop thinking, what if it was you. With Hawk I almost lost you. I just couldn't endure a life without you, Jack. I love you more than anything. You don't know how really special you are. And our child, never to know how wonderful you--"

"Shh, it's okay I'm here. I don't plan on going anywhere. And I'll stay home. My staff can make sure the paper is put to bed -- I pay them well enough."

"We were fools today, Jack. I mean arguing on TV to show each other up. That was childish. Brian is dead. Vern lost his son. That's the important thing. Not wasting your time fighting over trivial things."

"You're right. I was an obnoxious jerk today. And I apologize--"

Jack was interrupted by a knock at the door. He got up and answered it. Outside was Jo, frantic -- her makeup was smudged by tears, her hair dishealved. She rushed into the door, "Jack.... Oh, Jack Brian's dead--"

"We know. Here sit down. Would you like some tea?" Jack was affected by his mother's distress and pain; but also a bit jealous.

"No.... Jack, I need your help. It's Vern. He.... I'm so worried about him. He....." She began to sob.

Jack sat next to her and put his arm around her, "It's okay, take your time."

"Brian was.... it was just like Stevie.... Oh, Billy, it was just like Stevie.... One moment he was alive and talking to us, and then he slipped away."

In Jack's mind he relived those final moments. He could see it just as if it were the present. The pain was just as fresh as it was then. Jennifer saw this and reached over and took his had and kissed his cheek bringing Jack back to the present. He smiled feebly up at her; and she returned the smile.

Jo continued, "And Vern.... Vern just.... he just took off. I don't know. I haven't heard from him in hours. I've searched all over town. Oh, God I'm so frightened, in his state I don't know what he'll do, what might happen to him. Please Jack can you find him, before--" Jo began to sob and Jennifer put her arm around her.

Jack hated seeing his mother in pain. And his heart broke for Vern, despite all his huffing and puffing Jack cared very deeply for his Sancho Panza. "Of course I'll go. Right away. Okay, don't worry. I'll find him. You stay here with Jennifer--"

Jennifer interrupted, "Jack I want to go with you--"

"But in your condition--"

"Jack, I'm okay, I need to help. For Jo. For Vern. Please?" Thinking to herself, And for myself, I need to do something with you again to feel close to you again -- as a team.

Jack looked into her pleading eyes, and though it was against his better judgment, "Okay but if you're starting to feel tired, you're going home. Agreement," he said as he stuck out his hand.

"Agreement," she replied as she took his hand and smiled.

"I'm coming too," insisted Jo.

Jack looked at her, "Someone has to stay by the phone in case Vern calls. Okay, I want you to go across the hall and wait. Do you think you'll be alright?" Jo nodded."

Jack and Jennifer rushed out the door, and Jo sadly walked across the hall to her apartment.

---

(Air date May 2, 2000)
CHAPTER SEVEN: OUTSIDE THE APARTMENT, JACK'S CAR.

Jack and Jennifer jumped into Jack's car and he turned the key. The engine fired up and he suddenly turned to Jennifer and frowned. "Ah....where are we going?"

Jennifer looked puzzled. "Jack, we're going to find Vern. Come on, move it."

Jack looked at her with a silly grin. "I know we're looking for Vern but where? I mean do we go to his house or some place that he goes in times like this. Let's face it Jennifer, we don't know a thing about Vern outside The Spectator."

Jennifer shook her head. "Jack, you don't know anything about Vern. However there are some of us who make an effort to get to know our friends properly. I'm sure Vern would go down to the lake. He likes to hang out at the club when he's stressed."

Jack was even more confused. "What club? Vern is a member of The Lake Country Club?"

"No Jack, not that stuck-up Country Club. The Model Yacht Racing Club."

Jack shook his head in wonder. "You mean to tell me that Vern....Vernon Scofield.... plays with model yachts? Jennifer I think you have the wrong man."

"Jack Deveraux, will you just start driving. I have not got the wrong man. Vern has been building model yachts ever since his knees got too worn out for the real thing. He's bound to be down there. Hurry Jack, I'm really worried about him."

"Do you mind telling me exactly where at the lake is this toy boat club?.... Are you sure that Vern.... my Vern.... builds toy boats? I mean with Brian dying so suddenly, wouldn't he go to the office to work or something?"

"No Jack, that's what you would do. Vern has other interests."

"Obviously!" retorted Jack.

Ten minutes later they pulled up outside a small brick building with a long deck overlooking the lake. The discreet sign said simply "Salem Model Boat Club, Meetings every second Tuesday 8pm. Visitors welcome." Jack turned off the car headlights and stepped out of the car. "You know, some people have really secret lives. I mean who would have thought that Vern would be so private about all this."

Jennifer could never get used to the way Jack was so tunnel visioned when it came to some people. "Jack, Vern has never kept this a secret. Haven't you ever noticed that wonderful model boat that he's got in his office. He built that. It's a replica of.... you know, that boat that was in that big race that we lost. Um...."

"You mean Liberty the 12 meter? The boat Jimmy Connors sailed and lost the America's Cup. Well that says it all, doesn't it? Why would anybody build a model of a boat that lost the greatest yacht race in history? I think you've got this all wrong. Vern has never had the money to race yachts."

"He didn't race big yachts. He had a sailing dinghy but he always wished he could sail in the big boats so he took up building replicas and racing them. It's a huge sport you know Jack. They are really serious. They have big international competitions and everything. Vern's always talking about it."

"Well not to me, he isn't. Work, Jennifer, work. That's what he's paid to do," said Jack as he took the front steps two at a time. Jennifer tried to catch up. "Hey wait for me. Not all of us have such long legs." Jack turned to her and paraphrased her comment. "Such long legs? Jennifer, you are not even in the same sentence as that." He took her hand and they went inside.

There were three men leaning over boat blue prints at one table and at another a couple were sitting talking. Jennifer approached the couple. "Excuse me, we were wondering if you know Vern Scofield. He's a friend of ours and we are anxious to find him."

The woman looked up at Jennifer. "Oh Vern, yes we know Vern. Everybody knows Vern. He was here a little earlier. You do know about his son, don't you? Brian died suddenly tonight. Vern came in not long after we heard it on the radio. We both spent some time with him talking but then he said he had to leave. We were actually thinking of going over to his place on our way home to make sure he was okay. Are you friends or relatives?"

Jack sighed. "Vern works for.... yes we are very good friends. His closest friends." Jack's dependence on Vern and his almost childlike jealously of any other people in Vern's life came instantly to the fore. The woman smiled up at Jack as her intuition told her how much he cared. "I'm sure you'll find him at home. He'll be glad to see you." Her soft smile reassured Jack and he walked quickly back to the car with Jennifer once again lagging behind. "Miss Horton! Get in here!" Jack yelled as he shut the car door. Jennifer was quiet. Jack only used that tone when he was worried about something.

Jack sped out of the parking lot and onto the road that ringed the lake. At the first intersection he took a left and headed straight to Vern's small home which was located in an older part of Salem that was developed about 40 years ago. The neighborhood used to be filled with neat single storey homes but in the last few years, younger folk had started to buy them up and modern extensions and renovations were going on everywhere. Vern's house was still intact with a neatly edged front lawn and straight path to the door. There were no lights on as Jack and Jennifer pulled up outside.

They looked at each other in silence and both knew what the other was thinking. Yes, Vern was probably inside, in the dark, all alone. As Jennifer knocked quietly on the front door, Jack tried to peer in the living room window. "I can't see a thing. You wait here while I go round back." Jennifer nodded as Jack headed around the side. Jennifer knocked again and there was still no answer. "Vern.... Vern, it's me Jennifer. Are you there, Vern?" She leaned against the door and thought she heard a noise inside. "Vern.... Vern." Again there was nothing but Jennifer was worried. It sounded like somebody was inside in the dark. She couldn't leave Vern alone like that. She reached into her bag and pulled out her wallet. "You know Jack, some things you have taught me well." She took out one of her credit cards and leaned on the door forcing a small gap near the lock. Yes!!! She pushed the credit card into the gap and turned the door knob. Nothing happened. She pushed harder and harder and suddenly the card snapped in half with one end still stuck in the door.

Jack put his hand on her shoulders and she gave a little scream. "Don't sneak up on me like that Jack." Jack squeezed her arms a little. "And you my little burglar, should practice your craft more. I thought I taught you better than this." With that he took out his own overdrawn maxed out credit card and leaned on the door. The broken half of Jennifer's card fell to the ground and Jack inserted his own. In less then five seconds the door was open. "Voilá! You know you can never compete with an expert." Jennifer pushed past him. "I wouldn't be so proud of those skills Jack. I mean who wants to be an expert house breaker anyway?"

Jack grinned. "You obviously."

They both stood inside the door and tried to see in the dark. Jennifer whispered, "Jack, do you think Vern is in here?" Jack whispered back, "I have no idea but it seems logical to me. Well it did until I found out about his toy boat building expertise."

"Jack, did you hear that?" Jennifer grabbed Jack's arm.

"No, I didn't hear a thing. Here, let me find the light switch."

"No Jack, you can't turn on the lights. What if Vern is here?"

Jack scratched his head. "Huh? What if Vern is here? Isn't that why we'd turn on the lights? And tell me why are we whispering?"

"Because it's Vern's house. We have no right to be in here Jack."

"Yeah well you didn't think that when you got out that now useless credit card. Good thing too. Now you can't buy anything with it."

"I only buy essentials Jack. Essentials. Turn on the light, will you."

Jack flicked the switch up and the room filled with light. The room was empty with no sign of Vern even coming home. Jennifer walked through to the kitchen while Jack looked around the rest of the house. He opened the door to the second bedroom and his eyes nearly popped out of his head. The room had been turned into a study come den. There was a very old mahogany desk across one corner with a matching bookcase on one wall. The shelves were filled with rows of small trophies and framed certificates each one bearing Vern's name. Jack peered closer to read the inscriptions. Each one was for a race that Vern had won and they back to when Vern was a child. One frame contained an old sepia photograph of an eight-year-old Vern sitting in a small sailing dinghy with his father. On the opposite wall were three model yachts complete with full rigging and each sitting on a cedar cradle that had been specially built. Jack was astounded. This was a side of Vern that he never knew existed. He'd been to Vern's home before but only for short visits. He'd never taken the time to really find out about his life outside the paper. Jennifer walked in quietly behind Jack and touched his arm. "Amazing, isn't it? I knew he was interested but not this much. Look at this fine work Jack. Can you imagine that Vern could do all this with his hands." She gently ran her fingers over the models.

Jack was still staring at the old photograph. "This is what gets me. Vern, sailing. I mean he's just not the type....is he?"

Jennifer pulled Jack's arm around her shoulder. "I think he is. He has that weathered look, like he's spent a lot of time outside. Wow Jack, the stories he must have to tell."

They both stood in silence, holding each other for a couple of minutes until Jack finally spoke. "We never took the time, did we? I've known Vern for years and I never took the time to really get to know him. It's like Steve. I never took the time."

Jennifer reached up and stroked his face. "It's all right Jack. It's all right. Vern knows that you care just the same way that Steve always knew."

Jack sighed. He wasn't so sure about that. "Well Mrs. Deveraux, what next? We have to find him. We can't leave him alone tonight after Brian's sudden death. Where do you suggest we go next?"

"Well we could try the paper? Maybe, just maybe he did go down there. What do you think, Jack?"

"I think....I....I think....I think that's an excellent suggestion. I know that's where I'd be."

They switched off the lights as they left and gently closed the door making sure that it was locked. Jack opened the car door for Jennifer and just as she was about to get in they heard Vern calling them. "Jack, Jenny-girl, is that you?" They both turned to the direction of the voice and saw Vern walking towards them trailing behind a small brown and white dog that was pulling hard on the leash. The dog reached Jack first and began leaping and licking at Jack's hand. Vern pulled on the leash and yelled, "SIT!" The dog obediently sat down but still kept trying to lick at Jack's fingers.

Vern spoke first. "I guess you've been looking for me. I'm all right, you know. I'm all ri...." His voice broke as he spoke and he couldn't finish. The dog looked up and pushed his nose into Vern's hand. Vern absently patted his head as Jennifer gave him a hug. "Oh Vern, we are so sorry. It's just such a shock. He was doing so well. I can't believe it."

Vern tried to smile but it was impossible. "Thanks Jenny-girl. Brian was my life....my son....my hero. I....I....my life will never be the same." Jack saw and felt the pain in Vern and instinctively put his arms around him. "I'm sorry Vern. I'm so sorry. I always liked Brian. He was my best pal there for a while." Both Vern and Jennifer gave Jack a puzzled look. "What?" Jack said. Vern gave Jennifer a half grin. They both knew that Jack tried hard to have pals and it never quite worked out.

The dog began to pull again on the leash. He was tired and wanted to go inside. Vern spoke to him. "Okay boy, come on, time for rest. Come on Jac....come on boy."

Jack pulled up straight. "What did you call the dog, Vern? Did you call him Jack?"

Vern shook his head. "Come on Jack, why would I call my dog after you? He's a Jack Russell. That's all I meant. Would you like to come inside? I wouldn't mind the company for a while."

"Absolutely, you couldn't stop us, could he Jennifer?" Jack followed Vern and the dog up the path. Once inside, Jennifer insisted on putting on the coffee while Jack thought a brandy would be more in order. In the end, Jack and Jennifer had coffee while Vern sipped a brandy. There were long silences as everybody thought over the pain of that night and previous nights that were similar. The dog meanwhile had continued its liking for Jack's fingers and persisted in licking them. "You know, dogs always know the good folks Jack," said Vern.

Jack brushed aside Vern's comments. "He's only a dog Vern. What would he know?"

"Oh I think he knows an awful lot, Jack. Dogs are very intuitive," Vern answered. "I hate to be rude but I'd really like some time alone now. Do you mind?"

Jack stood up and helped Jennifer to her feet. She said, "If you're sure Vern. We can stay if you want."

"Jenny-girl, Jack, it's time I got some rest. I have a lot of things to organize tomorrow. Brian's gone but he'll always be my hero. He died doing his job the best he could. I have to make sure he's honored in the right way."

Jack put his arm around Vern. "If there is anything you need, help, whatever, you know I'm here."

Vern nodded. "Thanks Jack. I know."

They all walked out to the car and Jack helped Jennifer in. He walked around to his side of the car and was about to get in when he heard Vern call the dog. "Come on Jack, inside."

"Vern, you did call the dog Jack. Why did you do that?" Jack called out.

"Well Jack I have to have somebody to yell at when I'm at home, don't I? Good night Jack....and thanks. Thanks for everything."

Jack got in the car and looked across at Jennifer. "Imagine calling the DOG after me. I mean, the dog!"

Jennifer smiled. "Perhaps he called him Jack because he loves him so much."

Jack blushed and started the car.