Chapter 12- Holiday Spirit

"She's More"- Andy Griggs

I like blue eyes, hers are green
Not like the woman of my dreams
And her hair's not quite as long as I had planned
Five foot three isn't tall
She's not the girl I pictured at all
In those paint by number fantasies I've had

So it took me by complete surprise
When my heart got lost in those deep green eyes
She's not at all what I was looking for
She's more

No, it wasn't at first sight
But the moment I looked twice
I saw the woman I was born to love
Her laughter fills my soul
And when I hold her I don't wanna let go
When it comes to her I can't get enough

So it took me by complete surprise
When my heart got lost in those deep green eyes
She's not at all what I was looking for
She's more

More than I dreamed of
More than any man deserves
I couldn't ask for more
Than a love like hers

So it took me by complete surprise
When my heart got lost in those deep green eyes
She's not at all what I was looking for
She's more

"Justin, time to hit the hay bucko!"

"Okay mom!" he yelled back. "I'll be ready in a few minutes!"

"Whatcha listening to there bud?"

"Oh, just a song that reminds me of Maeter. In fact, it describes her to a tee."

"How so?"

"If you listen to the song lyrics, I think you'll understand why."

"I can tell already. But don't keep that head of yours in the clouds buster. You still have about another two weeks of school left until winter break, and I know you have some major tests coming up. So I suggest you hit the hay and get some rest."

"I will, but can I finish the song first?"

"Okay. By the way, you nervous about getting married yet?"

"On pins and needles if that's what you're thinking."

"Sounds like Matthieu." she giggled sitting next to him on his bed. "They had to practically push him out of the dressing room to get him at the alter and ready."

"I don't plan on being like that." Justin then chuckled, laughing at the mental image he had of their wedding. "Maeter would kill me if I was."

"Then I'd be next."

"Ouch, that's harsh mom."

"Get used to it. Hey, this song does describe her to a tee. Good choice."

"I'm thinking of using it for the first dance song between us. What do you think?"

"I like it. Blonde hair, green eyes, the height is definitely approximate if not right on the money, so I think it'll be perfect."

"Thanks mom. I was hoping you'd say that."

"Well you're welcome. If you need help with anything else, just let me know, alright?"

"I will. Night."

"Night kiddo." and with a gentle smile, Hilda shut off his bedroom light, slinked out of the room quietly, and backed herself up to the wall, tears in her eyes.

"What's wrong honey?" Matthieu asked walking up towards her.

"I'm happy, that's all. I finally realized that our boy has turned into a wonderful young man."

"Yes he has. But there's still Tabitha of whom we get to watch grow up as well."

"But that doesn't compare to the feeling of letting your child leave the nest and go out on his own."

"I know honey. Hey, if you'd like, we could always try for another."

"In due time sweetie. Right now, let's just go to bed for the night."

"Sure." As the two were about to walk down the hall to their room, Hilda heard something she rarely heard out Justin. "Hey, mom?" Peaking her head back into his room, she looked at him and said "Need something bud?"

"Nope. Just wanted to let you know I love you, that's all."

"We love you too bud. Sleep tight."

It was now officially winter, or at least as close to it as one person can get considering the weather was still active as ever. The shop was closed now for upcoming holiday season, giving everyone a much deserved rest. I wasn't sure when we would open up again due to the constant weather we were having, and in a way it made me glad. I'd rather everyone be home and safe other than try to risk everyone's necks coming to work. Eureka felt the same way. Every morning she hold me back, chiding at me telling me how bad the weather was. I would just step back, chuckle, and finally tell her that I'd stay home so she wouldn't have to worry. Then she'd just smile at me and cling to my arm. It was then that I knew she was doing it on purpose. Go figure eh?

As for the kids, they were now in the throws of second semester tests. So Maeter, Linck, and Jennifer were racking every last brain cell they had trying to study. They even used every last drop of daylight they had as well. I swear I've never seen such tired kids in my life. Just looking at them I had to laugh to myself lightly trying not to attract attention to myself, but as usual my lovely wife would elbow my ribs in jest letting me know she heard what I was doing. I swear I can't get anything past that woman.

Avriana and Maurice were now four going on five months with their expected little one and things couldn't be better. Maurice is off his cane for the first time in what has felt like years and has for some reason taken up jogging. Though he hasn't been doing much of it due to of course our unstable atmosphere, he's looking better each and every day. Heck, even Avriana is shocked at his progress. She just wishes that their little one would come now instead of later since for some reason or another she wanted a Christmas baby. Typical woman I guess. She just wanted her first child to be born on a special day, but in my opinion, the day a child comes into the world is special no matter what. That reminds me, I wonder when Anemone and Dominic were going to try to expand their family? Their twins were eight going on nine years old now and starting to look more like their mother each and every day, even though Lisa Marie had a few hints of her father in her. They didn't get their mothers skin or hair color as Felicity had with her mom, the twins had almost the same exact facial features. Makes me wonder now how Avriana and Maurice's child was going to come out.

Soon though my attention was averted as the sounds of giggling and laughing filled my ears and warmed my heart. Standing next to the front door enjoying a rare cup of coffee, I watched as the rest of my family, other than my wife who was on the sofa trying to rock Hope to sleep, was decorating the house and tree in preperation of the holiday season. Maeter and Jennifer hung the many stockings over the fireplace with care as the little ones hoped that jolly 'ol saint nick would soon be here. Linck and Timothy decorated the tree with smiles and chuckles as the twins danced around them cheering and laughing in anticipation of the first lighting of the lights. Adrian and Faith clung to Eureka with love in their hearts, hoping the looks in their eyes would give them more presents. But my wife, strong as she has always been, only looked back at them and said "Sorry girls, but those stares won't work with me. So unless you behave yourselves, santa won't visit this year."

"He won't?!" Faith said in shock. "But we're always good!"

"I know, but Santa may see things I don't, so best be careful of what you do. He knows when you are sleeping, he knows when you're awake. He knows if you've been bad or good, so be good for goodness sake." and right at that moment, we broke out in chorus singing all the Christmas carols that we knew. Looking over at Jennifer as she was singing along, I noticed a slight tear in her eyes, which was something I rarely ever saw out of her. Coffee still in hand, I went over by the fireplace next to her, wrapped my arm around her right shoulder, and leaned her in close to me. "Hi dad."

"You alright?" I asked softly.

"Yeah, I am. I'm just really happy to be here like this."

"Is that why you're crying?"

"I guess." wiping the tears from her face, I could tell she wasn't done crying.

"You don't have to hold it in kiddo. You're with family now, and nothing will ever change that."

"I know. That's why I wanted to ask you something."

"Like what?"

"If it's alright, I'd like permission from you and mom to take the Thurston name."

"What? Are you sure about that?"

"Yes I am dad. After being with you guys this long after you first took me in, I can't think of anything else but to do this."

"What about your mom? She won't like this you know."

"Doesn't matter to me anymore. She left me behind without a second thought, and if that's the way she's going to be, it's best that I start my life over as well."

"Not starting over Jennifer, just becoming a real member of our family."

"I already am dad."

"That you are. Welcome to the family, Jennifer Thurston." and with a quick kiss to her forehead, she leaned back up against me while the tears continued to flow. I could see them in Eureka as well when I turned to look at her since she had just overheard what we had talked about. And as we joined back into the chorus of Christmas songs, I now felt that our entire family was completely and utterly whole.

"Well, it's looking better. The swelling has gone down considerably and it seems to be healing nicely. Can you put any pressure on it yet?"

"Not really Mrs. Anderson. It still hurts too much when I try."

"Call me Nadia, Sophie. But alright, that probably means it may take longer than I thought for it to heal. But for now you have about another week before the next check-up. Until then continue to use the crutches and keep any pressure off of it."

"Okay."

"Tammy, has she been taking the pain meds I prescribed for her?"

"Yes she has Nadia. I've been keeping track of that regularly."

"Okay. Any problems with it at all?"

"None so far other than drowsiness. She just sleeps that off though with no difficulties."

"I'm sure she doesn't mind the occasional snoozing." Nadia giggled in reply.

"She sleeps just like her father does. So hard that it would take a bomb exploding in her ears to wake her up."

"Sounds like Hap when he dozes off on the sofa during his games."

"Typical of our husbands I guess. You ready to go Sophie?"

"Yes I am mom."

"Okay dear. Hey Nadia, why don't you call me later? We'll try to plan a night out for all of us ladies sometime."

"Sounds wonderful Tammy. I could use it. With all the injuries I've dealt with due to this god forsaken weather, I think I forgot what a good time was."

"Well we'll remind you then. Call me when you're done."

"Bet on it. Remember Sophie, keep all pressure off your foot."

"I will."

"Okay, see you two later then."

"Bye!"

Driving through town with mom on our way back home from the hospital, I had to sigh depressively. Here I was, sprained ankle, unable to move around on other than on crutches, and due to the weather, unable to attend school. Mom even had to hire a tutor from the school to come down so I could keep caught up in class. I found it to be kind of annoying not being able to be around my friends, but mom did it in order to keep me safe and from injuring myself further than what I already had. Sure, I enjoyed being able to chill out at home and do almost anything I wanted to, but I still got bored and tired of the same routine. I think I've got cabin fever so bad now that my teenage nerves are on edge. "You alright Sophie?"

"Yeah, I am mom. Just bored I guess."

"I wish there was more I could do for you, but we're stretched thin as it is. Me and your father have been working so much lately that we haven't even had time to ourselves."

"I know. Thanks for trying though."

"If it weren't for you dear, it wouldn't be worth it to us. Still, I wonder…"

"About what mom?"

"I am off today, and not expecting any calls from the office hopefully, so how I about I take your frazzled teenage nerves out for the day so you can be more like yourself?"

"Really?!"

"Sure, why not? I think you deserve it."

"Stop by the bank first then!"

"Why?"

"Easy mom. It's time I started my Christmas shopping!"

"Well then, to the bank it is. I need to do the same for your father anyways."

At the mall, standing in what looked like to be the busiest shop in town, us four girls were patiently waiting in line for our orders in the coffee shop, which, thanks to the holiday rush, was taking longer than usual. "Jeez, how long does it take to get a frappe?"

"Or a cappucino for that matter Samantha. I guess this is what holiday shoppers are all about. The shopping and the coffee to keep doing it with."

"Whatever Maeter. Hey, let's hurry it up back there! We don't pay to wait you know!"

"Keep it down Samantha!" Shelly sneered back at her. "I don't feel like getting kicked out due to your impatient temper."

"Whatever…"

"Hey, is that Sophie?" Jackie then stammered pointing out into the mall's hallway.

"Sure is Jackie. Looks like she's with her mom."

"That's the first time she's been in a public place since she twisted her ankle. Good sign I guess."

"Should be. She'll probably be on her feet again in no time I hope."

"Well our order is up, so let's go catch up to them ladies!"

"Okay!"

"Whew, I'm tired already mom." Sophie puffed as she tried to keep up with the crowds. "These crutches make it tough to get around."

"Sorry dear. Want to go home instead?"

"NO! I want to do this!"

"Well let us help!"

"Maeter, Jackie, Samantha, Shelly! What a sight for sore eyes."

"Or sore arms." Shelly giggled. "I'll go to customer service and see if they have a wheelchair for you to cruise around in."

"That's fine, really…"

"Nope, no arguments. Be right back!" She giggled running off.

"It figures." Tammy sighed. "Good to see you girls. It's been a while."

"Too long." I giggled. "It's been hard getting around these days as you can already tell."

"That I'm all too aware of. Especially my stubborn daughter here who wanted to go out."

"It was your idea in the first place mom." Sophie said with a sly grin as she looked up at her mother. "So don't lay the blame on me."

"Well I tried." her mom then giggled. "So girls, where are your boyfriends? Usually you're with them."

"Not today. It's a girls day out this time." I giggled. "Besides, can't be with the boys all the time you know."

"And what will you do when you're married Maeter?"

"Well…umm…"

"Gotcha." Sophie's mom then giggled back at me.

"Thanks Mrs. Thompson."

"No problem. So a girls day out is it?"

"Sure is!" Jackie then said gleefully. "Been planning on it for a while now."

"That's good. Surprised to see you have Samantha with you."

"Yeah, well, we figured we had to get her out of the house somehow, and she won't do it without us."

"Still stubborn as ever, aren't you Samantha?"

"Well…"

"You've been like that since I've known you as a child. It's going to take a guy with a lot of determination to put up with you."

"I'm not that bad!"

"Then why do boys avoid you then?" Jackie giggled. "You're the only single one in our group."

"Anyone ever tell you that you're nosy?"

"Nope. You're the first."

"Enough girls." I giggled. "We get the point. Hey, there's Shelly! You find anything?"

"Yep. The customer service guy even followed me out to hand it to her personally! Everyone, this is Chuck." and sure enough, that's when Samantha's eyes lit up. He was about five foot eleven, blue green eyes, black hair that was parted more to the left than the right, muscular, rugged looking like he lived in a cabin or the woods, and had glasses that screamed intelligent.

"Nice meeting you Chuck." Tammy said with a sigh of relief. "We couldn't have made it without your assistance."

"It's my pleasure ma'am. And here we go young lady, one wheelchair for the ultimate cruising experience."

"Thanks sir! This is great! Much better than these old things." Sophie said with a smile.

"You're welcome young lady. Glad I could help. If you need anything else, just let me know. I'll be in the customer service station in the center of the mall."

"We will. Thanks again!" Samantha yelled cheerfully.

"Whoa, was that our Sam?" I whispered to Shelly. "That just wasn't right."

"Not sure. But if it was, I think she finally let go of her negative side."

"I sure hope so."

The next morning at the Novak and Sorel residence. What is usually a loud and busy home when the kids are rambunctious is silent and quiet. Talho was out at work, Holland was on base, and the kids were all in school with winter break quickly coming up. But for one couple, it was a time to enjoy each other as they rarely ever got the chance to do. Snuggled close in their bedroom under the covers of the bed, Dominic and Anemone rested peacefully enjoying the feeling of their naked bodies after spending some much needed alone time together. Anemone could still feel the warm sensual breathing of her husband against the back of her neck, letting her sigh peacefully as she tried to snuggle ever closer to him. "Dominic, can I ask you something?"

"About what?" he asked quietly.

"Us having more children someday. The twins are nearly nine now, and I'd like us to have some more kids sometime soon."

"We discussed this already Anemone. I told you we could try anytime you'd like. Besides, I do miss the feeling of holding a baby in my arms."

"Well there is Hope now."

"Yeah, but she isn't ours."

"That's true. That's why I kind of made this time for us today."

"What do you mean?"

"I've been keeping track of my cycles, and I'm in the most fertile stages if I guessed the timing correctly."

"You mean…?"

"Yes dear, this is our first try in nine years."

"Well let's hope we got it right the first time then."

"I feel the same way hon. So, what would you want to have this time?"

"You should know me by now. I wouldn't care either way as long as it's happy and healthy."

"And what if it's twins again that we end up with?"

"If it's girls, I think we'll live, trust me."

"And what if it's boys?"

"I'll finally have someone to play sports with at least." he chuckled with Anemone taking a playful swing at him with her pillow. "What?! Did I say something I shouldn't have?" he laughed trying to defend himself.

"You goof! You can do the same thing with the girls and you know it!"

"I know, but I had to say it anyways."

"Whatever am I going to do with you?"

"Not sure. Still thinking about that."

"Oh you!!"

Thurston memorial park. What is usually a quiet area is now full of laughing and giggling as kids from all around town are sledding down the largest hill in town trying to either race or, from what Jenny could tell, set a new land speed record for sledding the fastest on a single hill. Especially one spot that only the older kids and teens used. "What's the matter Jenny, scared?"

"Quiet my dear Caleb before I thrown you down this hill! And you know I'll do it!"

"Point taken." He laughed. "Maeter and Linck already conquered it. Now it's our time. So shall we?"

"I don't know. I'm still really nervous Caleb. I've never went down something this steep before."

"Just try to stay along side me when we go down. I'm sure you'll be fine."

"Okay, if you say so."

"You think they're coming Maeter?"

"They better Linck. I'm not letting them live it down if they don't."

"Guess not." he chuckled. "Hey, here they come."

"About time. COME ON YOU TWO! Show us what you've got!"

"You heard her Caleb, let's go!"

"Alright. On the count of three we launch. One…two…three…go!" and like a bolt of lightning, the two got their running start, dived onto their sleds stomach first, and flew down the hill at breakneck speeds. Flying down the long and steep embankment, the world seemed to be a blur to Jenny. Snow flying past her, the cold winds snapping at her face, and each bump making her feel like she's flying with almost no effort until she feels herself land back on solid snow.

"Jeez, those two are flying!" Jackie yelled towards Maeter and Linck as they looked on. "Watch out you two!"

"Don't have to tell me that twice! Move it Linck!"

"No kidding! I hope there isn't anyone behind us!"

"You're telling me! If there is, they're snow pizza!"

"Jenny, get ready to dig your feet in and slow down!" Caleb yelled. "There's some kids ahead!"

"Got it!" she yelled back. "Hold on a second…who's that coming in front of me? HEY, GET OUT OF THE WAY!" But words came too late. Digging in as hard as she could to stop, all Jenny could do was brace for impact.

"Huh? Who said that?" Felicity said as she stood up and gathered up her sled. Looking around, her eyes shot open as a light blue blur came at her at what seemed like a record pace…

"Felicity! Felicity!"

"Hold on there, who are you?"

"I'm sorry doctor. I'm Eureka Thurston. I'm the mother of Felicity Thurston who got admitted here just a short bit ago."

"I see. Just wait in the waiting room please. We'll have a doctor with you shortly."

"Thank you sir. Maeter!"

"Mom!"

"Maeter!" I yelled back as we took each other into a tight embrace. "What happened out there?"

"Felicity was just in the wrong place at the wrong time mom. Before she even knew what hit her, she and Jenny had collided almost head on."

"How hard did they hit?"

"Felicity went flying up into the air about two or three feet summer saulting into the air. She landed hard on her back and was unresponsive when we got to her and Jenny."

"Oh no…how's Jenny?"

"Not sure. Haven't heard anything about her either. Hopefully I do soon since I'm covering for her mom until she gets here."

"Alright sweetie."

"Eureka?"

"NADIA! Have you heard anything about Felicity yet?"

"Yes I have. The good news is that she'll be fine and will make a full recovery."

"Wonderful."

"The bad news is, she fractured both of her tibias. So she won't be moving around much unless it's by wheelchair."

"Oh my. What about Jenny?"

"Other than a few bumps and bruises for her, she's fine. But she'll be sore for a day or two."

"Okay Nadia. Thanks."

"No problem. They'll be out in a little while. So until then just hang tight here and relax until they're ready."

"Sure. Oh, before you go Nadia, how long will it take for her bones to heal?"

"Anywhere from two to six weeks. I'll let you know for sure when I get the final x-rays."

"Alright."

"And winter claims yet another victim."

"Shut up Linck! No one asked you how I feel!"

"Down Felicity." he chuckled. "Sophie is in the same boat as you are, so don't feel bad."

"Whatever. Why couldn't Jenny watch where she was going?"

"She was little sis." Maeter calmly replied walking into their room. "She tried to stop for you, but there wasn't enough time, which is why she tried yelling at you telling you to get out of the way."

"Great…"

"Hey, cheer up little sis. It could be a broken neck with the way you landed."

"Yeah, I know. Can you help take care of Hammy for me?"

"Sure, it's no problem."

"Thanks Maeter."

"You're welcome. Now, shall we get some much needed rest? Winter break starts tomorrow and I plan on sleeping in big time."

"You and me both." Felicity then said with a sly grin to her face. "And this time there's no rule to that exception."

Several days later, Holland sighed tiredly trying to rack his brain figuring out what in the world was going to happen next when it came to the next problem or quandary that came into his office. Sure, it had been quiet lately, and for that he was grateful. But it still didn't help his nerves any. Going back to his paperwork, a soft knock on his door knocked him out of his trance. "Oh, hey Julia."

"Hey yourself. How's the day going?"

"Tiring as always with the bunch of characters I'm forced to deal with."

"Tell me about it. Listen, have you had any idea yet about who we're going to have as a captain for the Moonlight?"

"Good thing you mentioned that. I kept putting off the paperwork for it since other things keep coming up. Let me see if I can find the file for it."

"Sure."

"Now, there are plenty of canidates around here for this postion. You, Talho, Steve, John, Dominic, and even Anemone for that matter."

"What about Eureka?"

"I took her off the candidacy list."

"Why?"

"She's a family woman now Julia. I'm not going to put the pressure of her trying to be a captain of a ship on top of that."

"I guess you're correct on that assumption."

"Of course. Oh, here we are. Now, going through all of your files, you all have more than credible experience in the military in order to qualify for this position. You most of all though."

"Why is that?"

"Because of the experience you gained working with Jurgens on the Izumo. That along with your decorated record gives you an edge on everyone."

"Yeah…but…"

"Julia, I'd like you to take the position."

"Sir…I'm honored…but…"

"I'll also put Steve on board with you and his KLF, thus transferring the Newhope back to the GekkoState."

"But Avriana is, or was, our nurse. Who else would we use?"

"I already have someone lined up for that. But for now, you can consider this your new permanent postion here on the base." Then reaching over and opening his top left desk drawer, Holland pulled out a gold pin with the same design as the GekkoState, but instead of the white and green background, this one had the gold outlines with the purple background with the 'Moonlight' signature in gold right in the middle. "Congratulations Captain Jackson. You are the new captain of project Moonlight. Do us all proud."

"SIR! Thank you sir! I won't let you down!"

"Enough with the formalities Julia. You're part of our family, so don't you forget that."

"Sorry Holland. Force of habit." she then giggled nervously.

"It's alright. Oh, and one more thing."

"Yes sir?"

"Consider this an early Christmas present. Happy holidays."

"Merry Christmas Holland, and thanks again."

"No problem. Now get out of here and spend some time with that family of yours. I'll take care of official paperwork regarding your status right away."

"Thank you sir!" and so with a bounce in her step, she pinned her new pin to her dress uniform and darted home to give her husband and son the wonderful news.

"Transferred back to the Gekko?!"

"That's right Avriana." Holland said over the phone. He had called her about an hour later after giving Julia her new assignment so that he could rearrange crew members and responsibilities. "I need all three of you guy's LFO's to be on one ship at all times. I can't afford to have them separated."

"But who will take my position with the crew?"

"I have a nurse being trained here on the base for that. I hate doing this to you but you knew your position may have only been temporary."

"Yes, I know. It's mainly because I lack the qualifications for the job. I wish I could go to school for that but I just can't afford it."

"Well we'll try to figure something out for that later. All I want you to do right now is take it easy, enjoy your pregnancy, and take care of yourselves. You're going to be a mother soon and that, my dear grandaughter, is more important than being on a ship fighting battles."

"Jeez grandpa, just had to point that out, didn't you?"

"As always. Have to watch over you kids somehow."

"Okay grandpa. Thanks for letting me know though."

"Hey, you're welcome aboard that ship anytime you'd like, okay? Those are your friends who run that thing, so don't think I'm trying to separate them from you."

"You couldn't if you tried." she giggled back. "You know I'm as big a fighter as you are."

"True enough. Okay kiddo, you take care of that baby now and I'll try to stop by later if I can."

"Sounds good grandpa. Bye now!"

"Bye." he happily sighed. Hanging up the reciever, he leaned back into his office chair with a smile on his face. "Well, one volatile situation averted. Now to see how the others will react when they get this news."

"It's about time you retired." I laughed as my wife hung up the phone.

"Ooh, Maurice…don't you start now." she giggled at me. "It's bad enough my hormones are driving us crazy, so don't make my temper do the same thing."

"I'm not scared of you sweetie and you know it."

"I'm just too gentle on you." sighing happily, she leaned up against me on the sofa and stretched out while I read the paper. "Doing the same thing your father does. It figures."

"What can I say? I kind of grew on him."

"And came out wonderfully."

"But of course. So, how is our little one coming along?"

"Kicking around as always. I never knew carrying a child could be so tiring. I think it's kicked me more times in the stomach than I care to think about."

"An active child. Sounds like life is going to be interesting when it arrives."

"Active huh? I wonder if it gets that side from me or you?"

"Oh, you most definitely honey. Remember, I'm the laid back one of this family."

"Oh how could I forget." she laughed lightly. "It'd be a sin if I did."

"That it would be."

"That also reminds me, do you have all of your homework done?"

"I'm on winter break Avriana. There is no homework."

"I still have to check."

"What are you? My mother or my wife?"

"Wife the last I checked, but I do have some of my mom's habits in me."

"I can tell." I laughed. "When is our next ultrasound appointment?"

"In a few days. I find out what we're having this time as well."

"Sounds great. Well, until then, I think we'll just stay here and cuddle. How does that sound?"

"Works for me dear." Sighing happily once again, she wrapped herself up in a blanket, leaned up against my right side, and stayed there quietly as the soft sounds of Christmas music from the radio lifted our spirits and relaxed our nervous yet happy nerves.

"Sophie! You're down to one crutch finally I see."

"Hey Jennifer. Yeah, I am." she giggled. "It feels great to be able to move around on my own."

"I bet. Where's your mom at?"

"She just dropped me off. How about you?"

"Same. Have to do some shopping for mom since she's busy with three sick kids."

"Who got sick this time?"

"The twins and Adrian."

"Sounds like fun."

"Not really with all three of them running high fevers and throwing up constantly."

"Sounds like the flu has made it's evil presence known."

"It has, and I'm doing all I can to prevent myself from getting it."

"Good idea. So what are you shopping for today?"

"Just a few things for the youngest ones. Dad get's the pleasure of shopping for us older kids."

"Organization. I like that."

"It helps." Jennifer giggled as the two went into a plush toy store.

"What do you need here?"

"There are a couple of stuffed animals the twins wanted, so they're on the Christmas shopping list."

"Typical three year olds."

"Yep. Hopefully with these they'll leave Felicity's stuffed animals alone."

"Let me guess…they keep stealing them?"

"Yep, and Felicity is tired of it."

"Too bad she can't fight back at the moment."

"Yeah, but she's 'living' from what she told me."

"I sure hope so." Sophie giggled back at her friend. "I'm sure we'd hate to lose her."

"You aren't kidding there. Alright, done here. Now off to other things. What are you shopping for?"

"Not sure yet. All I have to do is dad, mom, and Linck."

"Well do you want to hang out then?"

"Sure! You don't have to ask me that twice."

"I guess not. Let's go."

"How are they doing hon?"

"They're all sleeping now." Eureka said tiredly as she walked out of the kid's bedroom. "Their fevers are still high though, which has me worried a bit."

"We'll just keep an eye on them. If they don't improve by tomorrow, we'll call Nadia."

"Okay."

"Tired?"

"Just a little."

"Why don't you go lay down? I'll take care of things from here."

"Thank you sweetie. I'll see you later." and with a quick kiss, my darling wife went into our room to catch up on some sleep. Couldn't say I blamed her though. I was just as tired helping take care of the kids, but I always put her first over myself. Grabbing a quick cup of coffee to get me energized once again, I went down to the girl's room to check up on Felicity and Hammy. "Hey kiddo, how's life treating you today?"

"I'm doing alright dad. Laying here relaxing isn't as bad as it looks."

"Boy, maybe I should break my legs so I can be like you."

"I don't think so dad." she giggled. "It'd be much too painful."

"That's true. I'd hate to be rammed and thrown into the air like that."

"Don't remind me."

"I'll try not to." I laughed. "How's your little critter doing?"

"Not sure. Hard to see him from here."

"That's why I came down to check. Well, it looks like the little guy is sleeping in the corner."

"How is his food and water?"

"Food is fine. I'll change his water out for you."

"Thanks dad. Jeez, this sucks. Can't even take care of my own pet."

"It's not your fault kiddo. Now relax and crank your stereo like you always do."

"Nope, can't do it."

"Why not?"

"Because mom is taking a nap."

"How did you know that?"

"I don't know…it's like…I read her mind somehow…it was kind of weird."

"It's not at all weird Felicity."

"Why not?"

"It's a coralian thing kiddo. I'll explain it when you're older."

"If you say so." she giggled. "Thanks dad. I love you."

"Love you too Felicity. Be right back."

"Alright."

"Well, well, looks like someone has been busy." Mike chuckled after walking in the door from work. "The house looks amazing."

"Thanks sweetie." Sarah sighed happily, wiping a bead of sweat from her forehead. "I have been just a bit busy decorating everything."

"Just a bit? This is enough work to hire the entire NRA! How do you do it all?"

"A lot of love for the season I guess. It's always been my favorite time of year thanks to a lot of my friends."

"What about your family?"

"I try not to think about them now. Every time I do, it always breaks my heart, especially when it comes to my girls."

"Want me to go find them and bring them to you?"

"NO! Don't…please…"

"Sarah…"

"Listen Mike, I miss them every day I'm not with them, but I'm not about to tear them away from their father or their new family for that matter. It's the holidays and I'm not about to cause any more trouble than what I already have. Thanks to you and your love and patience for me, I'm finally able to let go of my past and live towards the future now with not only you, but with the child we've created as well."

"Are you sure you want to let go of everything? I mean, it was all stuff that you work hard towards."

"I'm sure my love. I have everything I ever wanted here with you now. And this time, it's with no strings attached."

"No strings attached…I like that." he chuckled. "But you should still contact them somehow and let everyone know what your intentions are. Otherwise they'll keep looking for you until the world ends."

"Yeah, I guess you're right. But I need you to do one more thing for me."

"I already know what it is hon. Don't worry, I've already got it covered. But you have to do one thing for me as well in return."

"And what would that be?"

"Let's have one Christmas present together, just you and me."

"And what would that be?"

"Let's get married on that day. I already talked to my family pastor in this town and the local judge, and they found it to be a wonderful idea. So what do you say?"

"Honey, if that's all it takes, I'm all for it."

"I'm glad. Merry Christmas my love."

"Merry Christmas honey."

It was another several days later when a letter with no return address arrived at the mailbox of Eureka and Renton Thurston. There was no name, no stamps, no nothing other than Renton and Eureka's name on the front. This somewhat concerned the couple, who looked at each other nervously as they drove up their drive towards home. "Should we open it dear?"

"I don't know Eureka. It could be anything from a just a simple letter from one of our friends to something dealing with another dangerous threat to us and our family."

"How about we call Dominic in. I trust him to deal with it since dad is working right now."

"Good idea. I'll call him as soon as we get inside."

"Okay."

Dear Renton and Eureka,

As you know, I've caused a lot of misery in a lot of people's lives. I stole a husband, kidnapped him from his family twice, started my own family with him by taking advantage of an illness, and did my own thing because I thought I could give him a better life than what he had, and I was proved wrong in the end. Through the four or more years I had him in my life, all of you never gave up on finding him and bringing him home back to his family. Now, in the end, I have to admire your persistence. You won the overall war I kept up to keep Renton in my life. For that, I congratulate you. I finally wave the white flag. I give up. You win.

Now, don't think this is a letter stating I'm going to turn myself in and pay for what I've done. No, I refuse to go that route. Instead, I have and am going to move onto bigger and better things in life.

But before I get into that, I have to thank you, Renton, for giving me a life that I could only dream about. It was a wonderful four, almost five years being with you, and with that, you were able to give me three wonderful little girls. I miss them each day I'm away from them, but I know you and Eureka will give them a life that I know they deserve. Please take care of them and let them know I love them more and more each day.

To Eureka, I admire the love you carry for the man I thought I could spend the rest of my days with. I was always jealous of the love you showed him every time I saw you two together. But when I saw you two together with your children as well, I let that jealously take over my common sense and took him away for what I thought was going to be permanently. But alas as I said before, I was proven wrong and his heart led him back to where he belonged. Bravo. All I ask now of you is that you take care of my girls. You and Renton give them the life I probably wouldn't be able to with my past. The only thing I beg of you is that you don't alert them of my past, for I will probably never be back to see them grow up and move on in their lives.

But don't think I'm letting them go without sadness or grief. As I wrote this letter, I had my soon to be husband at my side holding me as I tried to keep the tears back. As long as they're happy now, that is all I want in my life. And I know you can do that for them.

As for me, like I said, I have moved on to bigger and better things now. I'm about three months pregnant now, happily engaged, and have a wonderful new home in a location I will not disclose. In fact, I hope you all wish for my happiness as I will be changing my name soon due to me getting married to a wonderful man. In fact, thanks to our common sense finally kicking in, we're retiring from our short military careers and are going to spend the rest of our lives together raising a whole new family. Who knows, maybe it'll be as large as yours someday if things go right between us. And by the time you get this, all things regarding my history will probably already be erased from history and I'll have a new clean slate to work with. So don't bother looking for me anymore.

Finally, though you may not believe me at all, but I love each and every one of you. I know I didn't show that through the last god knows how many years, but my feelings are real and true to my heart. I wish everyone the best in their lives. So take care of each other, show each other the love I know you carry in your hearts, and have yourself a Merry Christmas, a beautiful happy holiday season, and a wonderful new year. God bless and I love you all.

Love,

Sarah

"I guess that's it." I sighed after Dominic read the letter to all of us. Everyone sat in our living room in silence with the only sound in the room other than our breathing was the furnace kicking in keeping us all warm and toasty. "What do you think we should do now?"

"I wish I knew." Dominic said quietly. I could see the frustration in his eyes grow somewhat as I knew she had gained the last upper hand on him. The war was over. We may have won the biggest battle of them all, but overall, even if we all hate to admit it, she won the war by leaving no trails, clues, or evidence of where she was or how she even got into town and out without anyone seeing her. For all we knew, she could've hired a courier to deliver the letter. "But all I know is I do believe the battle is over. She won by outsmarting us hands down. Still, I can't believe this. We were so close to her so many times and she still squeaked past us. I tell you Renton, she's a sly one."

"That may be true Dominic, but she still loved us like she said in that letter."

"But if she did, why did she take you away from us dad?"

"Because she thought she could keep something she knew she couldn't have kiddo." I told Felicity softly as she looked up at me from the sofa. "But that doesn't matter anymore. I'm home with all of you now, and from the way it looks, that's the way it's going to stay from here on out."

"What about Adrian, Hope, and Faith dad?" Maeter asked. "They still have the Matthews name."

"Though their mother may hate me doing it, me and your mom are going to petition to have their last names changed to ours. That way we can keep Sarah's past from carrying over to them and tarnishing their lives as well."

"Is that alright with all of you?" Eureka then asked as everyone stared at her.

"Might as well." Anemone then said softly from in behind her husband. "It'll be the last chapter to this whole saga, and doing that I think would be a fitting end to everything."

"That's true sis. That last step will be the end to the whole thing once and for all…"

Well before I had known it, a lot of things had happened in our lives. Jennifer took our family name, the case against Sarah, believe it or not, got completely thrown out the window and destroyed. Holland, and we still laugh about that to this day, took all the info and evidence they had and burned it right outside his office window. Talk about letting his frustrations out. The local D.A wasn't about to give up that easy, but we dropped the subject and let him do his own thing. As for us, the Thurston family, Christmas was finally a day away and we couldn't have been more excited, especially for two young people in our lives. "Do you think they'll like it hon?"

"They better." Eureka said with a smile coming out of the newly redone kitchen. "It didn't take much to get it up to this point, which is what made this whole project worth it."

"Still worried about it being Sarah's old home?"

"Not at all. She gave us her blessing to live our lives to the fullest now, and I think she would've been happy about who we're giving this house to."

"Well all I got to say is that Maeter and Justin had better enjoy it. This is one present that I know for sure that they wouldn't turn down."

Christmas was the usual fare around Bellforest, and I couldn't have been happier to be back home to enjoy it. As always at the Novak residence, which is where we usuall spent the second Christmas celebration at, it was either clothes, toys, small kitchen appliances, jewelry, music, tools, books, or whatever everyone wanted that season. I'm not even going to go through the list since it was probably too long to even try to remember. After we had said our goodbyes to everyone later that evening, Linck had one more gift to hand out in his hands. "Hey dad, I'll be home later! Have to get this to Sophie's before it gets too late!"

"Okay son! See you when you get home!" I chuckled. "Have fun!"

"I will!" and as I waved him off, I don't think we were going to be prepared for the shocker he was about to drop on all of us.

"Linck, I'm glad you were able to make it!"

"Thanks Mrs. Thompson. I was afraid I wouldn't."

"We'd wait all night for you if we had to." she giggled at him while he hung up his coat and scarf. "Well, don't we look spiffy today!"

"Had to. Well, not really had to, but it's nice to look good on a holiday."

"I think you'll be impressed here then."

"Why do you say that?"

"Sophie, come show your boyfriend your new dress!" and when she came around the corner, his jaw dropped. The raven haired beauty absolutely caught his breath. Her five foot five, petite figured body was in a dress that was as white as the Christmas snow. It ended just at the top of her feet, showcasing the white slip on dress shoes that came with it. It was long sleeved with the sleeves slightly lacy along with the neck and upper chest line. It was the perfect evening gown. "I think I'll leave you two alone for a minute. Don't be too long." and with a quick gentle smile she stepped out of the foyer and left them in silence.

"H-hi Linck…"

"Sophie…you look absolutely beautiful in that dress! Did you get that today?"

"Y-yeah. It was a present from my mom."

"Well she picked out something that looks totally amazing on you."

"You think so?"

"Of course." he warmly replied as he took her hand, leading them back into the living room. "Mrs. Thompson, I don't know what to say about what you gave Sophie. I think my heart just sank so deep into love that I'm not sure if I could ever let her go."

"Well I'm glad it got that kind of reaction out of you. We were waiting for you since we have a few presents for you as well."

"I've got a couple myself for you also. So where do we begin?"

"We'll give you yours first." Mr. Thompson chuckled. And so with a few laughs, Linck got a few new books to keep his ever curious mind busy, a couple of mind games to keep him thinking, and a couple of sweaters to keep him warm. "Well, that's it from us. What do you have to give in return?"

"Now Chuck, be nice!" Tammy scolded. "Sorry about that Linck. He's a little harsh when it comes to his wording sometimes."

"Don't worry about it." Linck laughed. "I'm used to it. But anyways, this is for you two."

"What is it?"

"Why would I tell you? It'd ruin the surprise."

"Of course, how could I forget?" She giggled in reply opening the envelope. "Okay, we've got a card here so far. Is that all we get?"

"Read the front first. The present is on the inside."

"Okay, if you say so." Clearing her throat slightly, Tammy began to read the card. "To the Thompsons, I wish you a happy and very merry Christmas."

"That's all?" Chuck snorted slightly.

"Quiet Chuck!" she scolded again. "I haven't opened it yet! Alright here we go." She then opened the envelope where another small envelope sat inside. "I hope all of your Christmas wishes and dreams come true this holiday season. Love, Linck." She smiled up at him and then opened up the other envelope. When she pulled out the small slip that was contained inside, her jaw then dropped as well. "Linck…this is way to extravagant, even for us."

"Nonsense Mrs. Thompson. I know you don't get out much together, so I figured this would do just fine."

"What's it for?" Chuck then asked.

"It's for a dinner for two at the nicest restaurant in town. It even includes a limo ride there and back."

"Wow, that is extravagant. Thanks Linck."

"You're welcome. Okay Sophie, your turn."

"Oh jeez, I'm so nervous now I could faint." she giggled. "But alright, here goes nothing." So then taking her time as to keep the tension in the air on purpose, Sophie opened her gift, which was held in several different boxes in one. "What's all this sweetie?"

"Just open them and you'll find out."

"Okay." she giggled again. She then opened the first one, which happened to be the biggest. "Oh my god! It's that crystal ballerina music box that I wanted!"

"Yes it is, but you're not done yet. Keep going."

"Okay!" and this time, she wasted no time getting into the other ones. She first got to the necklace, which she had Linck help put on right away, then the earrings, and finally the pin, all of which were made from the same crystal as the music box. "Linck, they're all so lovely. Thank you!"

"You're welcome Sophie. Anything for you."

"You are just too special sweetie. Well, looks like we're done here."

"Not quite actually."

"Huh?"

"Look further into the box. There's one more thing for you." and so once again, she dove back down into the box looking for that one last hidden gift. As she dug, her parents looked at Linck and gave him a gentle nod, letting him know they remembered his plans. Finally, after what felt like ages, Sophie got to the last gift wrapped present that was hidden under the packing tissues. "What's this?"

"Open and find out." and so she did. And the final reaction, well, it was priceless. "Well?"

"This…this…this is…"

"Yep, just what you dreamed about since you were a little girl Sophie. You always told me how you would wait for your prince charming to come up and carry you away to a happy ending, just like Cinderella. Well this is it. This, my love, is your dream come true. Sophie Thompson, would you do me the honors of being my wife?"

"Would I!? Boy, you have no idea how long I've waited for this day!" and like a flash, she had her arms wrapped around his neck kissing him right after he placed the ring on her finger. To him, it had turned out to be the best Christmas ever, as well as hers.

Well after that, time quickly flew by for all of us. Winter finally passed and turned into spring, which then turned into summer. In early June, we were finally blessed with a new member into the Thurston family. Avriana and Maurice had brought a beautiful seven pound, nine ounce, eighteen inches long baby girl into the world. She was honorably named April Mae Thurston and looked just like her mother right down to the hair color. We couldn't have been happier other than what took place shortly afterwards.

School finally ended, the kids took a short time off before we flew off on the Gekko to our vacation home in Kahlua City where we held Maeter and Justin's wedding. It was a beautiful event with the warm temperatures, the ever expansive waves coming in from the lake that was behind the alter, and the beautiful reception that followed soon afterwards. But it was the one gift that we gave them that really took them off guard. "What's this dad?"

"Well Maeter, these go to something very special, and it's our wedding gift to you from us."

"What do they go to?" Justin asked curiously.

"You'll find out when we get home son. Until then, don't lose those."

"We won't."

A week later we had left, Maeter and Justin returned from their honeymoon, which of course was at the same place the wedding was at. All they did was rent the condo that was next to ours and away they went to spend the rest of their lives together. Oh, and speaking of that, Jennifer did that as well, moving into one of the apartments above Mary and Mark. It was a smaller unit which made it easier for her to afford. We were sad to see her go, but we knew we can't keep our kids living at home forever. Mark and Mary, well they surprised us as well by letting us all know that they were now expecting their first child, which made them wonder if there were any open units at the building that Maurice and Avriana ran. Luckily we had a vacancy a couple months after they asked and they snatched it up before anyone else could. We kind of laughed about that, but we figured it was because they didn't want to be separated from us. It figured though. Everyone wanted to be with us in some way or another. "Hey, dad!"

"Yeah Maeter!"

"We're ready to go! Now let's go see what these keys you gave us go to! I'm so anxious that I'm going nuts!"

"Alright, alright, we're going already!"

A short time later, we arrived at the destination with me and Eureka on pins and needles hoping that this last gift would go over well with them. "Hey dad, why are we at Sarah's house?"

"It's not hers Maeter. Her mom owned it."

"Well why do we have the keys to it then?"

"Because sweetie," Eureka then said softly as she turned to them in the backseat. "We bought it off of her and fixed it up."

"But what does that have to do with us?"

"It belongs to you two now, lock, stock, and barrel." I said gently. "This is our last present to you. Maeter, Justin, welcome to your new house." and that's when we got out of the car with tears pouring from our daughters eyes while Justin held her close to his side.

"Mom, dad, how can we ever thank you for this?"

"You don't have to Maeter. All we ask is that you enjoy it."

"We will dad, and thanks again." Justin said as he gave me a firm handshake.

"You're welcome. Now go take a look at it."

"Okay. Let's go hon."

"Okay sweetie." Maeter sobbed gently as they went inside. And right at that moment I knew in my heart that this was the last adventure I was ever going to take in my life. Those reigns were now firmly handed down to my kids. This time, I was going to live my life how I wanted, and that was with my wife and the rest of my still ever expanding family.

A/N: To all my readers and fans-

This was the final chapter to my three story series. And so due to the lack of ideas and inspiration, I am now officially calling it quits and retiring from the fanfiction community. But I will always retain my account here, so I will always be in easy contact with everyone. Thanks for all of your time and comments. I want to also thank all of you who helped keep the inspiration going. So please make sure you leave a comment if you'd like and I hope to be able to keep in contact with everyone. God Bless and Godspeed. Ltscw