Chuck Fishman and his wife Jade, had arrived at McGinty's an hour ago. Earlier in the day,Chuck had been working on his new Sitcom, 'Count My Blessing's', when he received an unexpected phone call from Jade. She had just arrived at O'Hare International Airport.

She had finished her job one week earlier than she expected ,and  grabbed the first plane to Chicago. She was waiting at the airport for Chuck to pick her up. As soon as Chuck received her call he left  to pick her up at the airport.

The drive was about 20 miles from the TV station and the traffic was heavy, so it took him more than an hour to get there. Neither Chuck nor Jade knew anything about the hostage situation or the ferris wheel crisis until they both arrived at McGinty's and heard it on the local news.

Chuck couldn't believe what he had heard. His best friend was in two dangerous situations and he hadn't been there for him. Chuck and Gary had been friends for a mighty long time and Chuck couldn't imagine life without his best friend, Gar.

Jade looked at her husband, she knew that he was worried and upset.

"Chuck. I'm sure that Gary and Jillian are both just fine. The news reporter said that everything turned out alright. The gunman from the hostage situation is in custody and Gary and Jillian are now safely on the ground. So everything is okay," said Jade as she looked into her husband's worried blue eyes.    "That's not the point Jade, I should have been there for him. I should have been there to support him in any way I could," said Chuck.

"Chuck, now you listen to me. I'm sure that Gary will understand. Sometimes a person can be too busy to pay attention to the news around them. So you didn't hear about the situations until after they were all over, that doesn't mean you can't give Gary and Jillian your support now. Does it?" asked Jade.

No sooner had Jade got the worlds out of her mouth, than Gary and Jillian along with Bernie, Lois, and Marissa walked through the door.

 At seeing Gary, Chuck rushed over and gave his best buddy a friendly hug.

"Hey Gar, How ya doing buddy? Is everything okay? Hey Gar, I'm sorry I wasn't there to support you during the hostage situation, but I had to pick Jade up at the airport and we didn't know anything about it or the ferris wheel crisis until we got here at McGinty's. Well anyway, Jade and I are so glad that you and Jillian are safe. Hey buddy, you know  I'm always here for you," said Chuck.

"I know Chuck," said Gary as he returned Chuck's hug.

Gary looked over at Jade, despite their not so good first meeting, Gary did like Jade and was glad to see her.

"Well hello Jade, we weren't expecting you until at least Saturday," said Gary.

"Yeah, did you finish your job earlier?" asked Marissa.

"Yes, I did, so I caught the first plane to Chicago and here I am,"  said Jade. "Hey Gary. is that Jillian standing there beside you?"

"Oh excuse me. Honey, this is Jade, Chuck's wife. Jade I want you to me my fiancee Jillian." said Gary.

"Your fiancee! Well congratulations Gar. Hey Jillian you are getting a terrific guy. Sure he can be grumpy sometimes, but he is one hell of a guy," said Chuck.

Gary gave Chuck a look that said 'Don't push it Chuck. Don't push it.'

"Well I'm really happy for the both of you. When is the big day?" asked Jade.

"I don't really know, but Jillian has a day in mind," said Gary.

All eyes were on Jillian, which made her extremely uncomfortable. She wanted to be alone with Gary when she told him. She wanted Gary to be the first to know and then they would tell the others.

"I hope you don't think that I'm being rude, but I want to be alone  with Gary when I tell him. After I tell him we will both tell you," said Jillian.

"Oh no, Jillian, none of us think that you are being rude. Gary should be the first one to know. We understand," said Lois.

They all agreed with Lois, Jillian should tell Gary first. After all he was the one she was marrying.

"Well if no one minds, we going to go upstairs," said Gary as he gently took Jillian's hand.

"No sweetie," said Lois as she kissed her son on the cheek. "We'll see you and Jillian later."

"Hey Gar, enjoy yourself son," said Bernie winking at his son.

"Yeah Gar, have fun," added Chuck.

"Oh you two, behave yourselves," said Lois smiling.

"I should say so," said Marissa, trying hide her smile.

Jade just shook her head and mumbled. "That husband of mine."

"Let's go Jillian," said Gary as he walked her into the offices and up to his loft where they soon were alone.

"Would you like something to drink?" asked Gary.

"A beer would be nice,"said Jillian.

"A beer it is," said Gary and he went over to grab two beers out of the refrigerator.

When he turned he saw that Jillian was swaying back an forth to  John Michael Montgomery's,  'I Swear'.

Gary placed both beers on the kitchen table and strolled over to Jillian.

"May I have this dance?" asked Gary holding his arms out for Jillian.

Jillian went willingly into Gary's arms. She laid her head on his chest and Gary held her tightly, while they both danced romantically to the music.

"Gary?"

"Mnn?"

"Could you sing it to me?" asked Jillian as she looked up into Gary's mud puddle green eyes.

"Oh, you don't really what me to sing it. Do you?" asked Gary.

"Yes, I do. Oh please," said Jillian.

"Okay. if that's what you want, but don't say I didn't warn you."

Gary brought Jillian closer to him and began to sing along to 'I  Swear'.

I swear by the moon and the stars in the sky And I swear like the  shadow that's by your side

I see the questions in your eyes I know what's weighing on your mind You can be sure I know my heart `Coz I4ll stand beside you through the years You4ll only cry those happy tears And though I make mistakes I'll never break your heart

And I swear by the moon and the stars in the sky I'll be there I swear like a shadow that's by your side I'll be there For better or worse, till death do us part I'll love you with every  beat of my heart And I swear

I'll give you every thing I can I'll build your dreams with these two hands We'll hang some memories on the walls And when just the two of us are there You won't have to ask if I still care `Coz as the time turns the page, my love won4t age at all

And I swear by the moon and the stars in the sky I swear like the  shadow that's by your side I'll be there For better or worse, till death do us part I'll love you with every  beat of my heart And I swear I swear by the moon and stars in the sky I'll be there

I swear like the shadow that's by your side I'll be there For better or worse, till death do us part I'll love you with every  beat of my heart I swear, I swear, oh... I... swear...

Jillian looked up into Gary's face. Tears of happiness were streaming down her face.

"Oh Gary, thank you, that was so beautiful. Thank you for singing it to me," said Jillian.

Gary wiped a tear from Jillian's face, he bent towards her, found her lips and kissed her with all the love and compassion that he could  give. After the kiss, Gary looked into Jillian's violet eyes.

"Hey gorgeous, you still haven't told me what day you want to get married," said Gary.

"Oh Gary, please don't tell me no," said Jillian with a worried look on her face.

"Jillian, how can I tell you no, when I don't know what day you have in mind?" asked Gary.

"I want us to get married on my birthday. I've always wanted to get married on that day, but Jimmy wouldn't go along with the idea. Please say it's okayGary," said Jillian.

"Okay, Jillian honey. That's no problem. When is your birthday?" asked Gary.

"September 17," answered Jillian.


~~~  

The silence was too much for Jillian. Gary was staring dumb founded at her and she wasn't sure that she wanted to know what he was thinking. 

"I guess the answer is no," said Jillian sadly. 

"I didn't say no," said Gary. 

"Then why are you looking at me that way?" asked Jillian. 

Gary could no longer restrain himself and burst into a fit of laughter. 

"Gary Hobson, if you don't want to get married on my birthday just say so. You don't have to laugh at me!" said Jillian with tears in her  eyes. 

"Oh Jillian, I'm not laughing at you. I think September 17th is a perfect day to get married. Yes it's just perfect. We can celebrate our anniversary and our birthdays all in one day. My birthday is September 17th too," said Gary as he wiped Jillian's tears from her face. 

"Gary, is it really September 17?" asked Jillian.   "Cross my heart. September 17, 1965," said Gary. 

"I was born in 1970," said Jillian. "Can we please get married on that day?"

"Jillian whatever you want is okay with me. All I want is to spend the rest of my life with you and that's all that matters to me," said Gary. 

"Oh my, we don't have much time," said Jillian.  "We need to pick the church, and the place for the reception. Lorraine will be my matron of honor of course, Marissa said that she would sing for us. Gary you will have Chuck for your best man won't you?" 

"Who else?" asked Gary smiling. 

"Allison can be the flower girl and Chris the ring bearer and I'll need a few brides maids. Gary since my father is no longer alive, do you think that Bernie would walk me down the aisle?"   "You can ask him, but I'm sure that he will," said Gary. "Jillian are you sure we're going to have enough time? September 17th is only about  9 weeks away. That's not much time." 

"Please Gary, don't change your mind. I know we will be cutting it close, but I know we can make it. Besides I don't want to wait until next year. I want to marry you now," said Jillian.   "I don't want to wait until next year either. That's such a long time away. I love you and I want to marry you in nine weeks," said Gary.   "I love you so much," said Jillian. 

Gary leaned over and kissed Jillian tenderly on the lips. Jillian surrendered herself into Gary's arms. They held each other for a long time. Jillian was content in Gary's arms but she knew that it was getting late and she had to work in the morning. But she couldn't bring herself to say good night, for she wanted to stay with Gary. 

"Gary, it's getting late and I know I have to work in the morning, but  I don't want to go. I want to stay here with you," said Jillian sadly. 

"Jillian, I want you to stay here too, but---- "

"I understand Gary. Your parents are staying here and maybe that's for the best right now. I really think we should wait. I hope you understand," said Jillian.   "Yes, I understand. It's no problem. Would you like me to take you home?" asked Gary.   "Gary, my car's right outside," said Jillian. 

"You can pick it up later, besides it gives me more time with you,"  said Gary as he kissed Jillian lightly on the lips. 

"Okay sweetie, and I think we better not leave without letting them  know the date of our wedding," said Jillian. 

"Oh boy, you are sure right. My parent's, Chuck, Jade, and Marissa  would hog tie us, before they would let us get out of here without telling them when the date of our wedding is going to be. Believe me it  wouldn't be a pretty sight," said Gary. 

"That bad huh?" asked Jillian.   "Yeah that bad and you better believe it," said Gary.   "Well then I guess we better get down there," said Jillian as she put her arm through Gary's arm. 

"Let's go then," said Gary.   Gary and Jillian walked arm and arm out of Gary's loft and down the stairs to the bar. 

---------------------------------------------- 

Bernie was sitting at the bar, fiddling with his watch, which seemed to have stopped after the last customer left a few minutes before. 

"Hey Lo, my watch has stopped, can you tell me the time?" asked Bernie. 

"Bernie, there's a clock on the wall behind you, Gary just hung it  there yesterday," said Lois. 

"Oh Okay," said Bernie. 

Bernie turned around to check the time. 

"Hey Lo, it's almost midnight," said Bernie. 

"Yes, I know Bernie," said Lois. 

Lois was getting ready to say something else, when Jillian and Gary walked into the bar. 

Chuck and Jade were sitting at a nearby table sharing a bowl of pretzels.   Marissa was sitting at the same table going over the wine list and sneaking herself a pretzel every once in a while. 

"Hi you two. Have you decided what day you're going to be married?"  Lois asked enthusiastically.   "Yes, we have," Jillian answered happily. 

"Well Gar old buddy, when's the big day?" asked Chuck.

 "It's----- "

Gary started to answer the question when he noticed Bernie pounding his watch on the counter.   "Come on you stupid thing, run already," said Bernie frustrated. 

"Dad, what in the world are you doing?" asked Gary. 

"It won't run Gar," answered Bernie. 

"Well that's not going to help it Dad," said Gary. 

"I know, hey Gar you were going to tell us when the date for your wedding was going to be," said Bernie trying to change the subject off his watch. 

Okay, the date we chose is------ "

"Oh Gary, please let me tell them," said Jillian. 

"Okay Jillian honey, you go ahead," said Gary. 

"Tell us all ready. I can't stand the suspense much longer," said  Chuck. 

Everybody else nodded his or her heads in agreement. Jillian smiled at Gary and then she began.   "You see, I've always wanted to get married on my birthday----- "

"So is that the day that you and Gary have chosen?" asked Marissa. 

"Yes it is," said Jillian happily holding Gary's hand.

 "Well what day is your birthday?" asked Lois. 

"Not only are Gary and I going to celebrate our anniversary, but we're also going to celebrate our birthday's together," said Jillian. 

"Your birthday's September 17th?" asked Lois. "Oh what a beautiful  idea. I'm so happy for you both." 

"We're all very happy for you," said Marissa. 

"You know if you're going to be married in September, then we better start making the arrangements. September 17th isn't too far off you know," said Lois. 

"Mom we can talk about the arrangement's later, Jillian has to work in the morning, so I'm going to take her home," said Gary.   "Gary, there is one question I have to ask before we go," said Jillian. 

"Oh okay," said Gary, understanding whom the question was for. 

Jillian walked over to Bernie, 'Oh I hope he says yes,' Jillian thought to herself. 

"Bernie, I know this sounds like a strange request, but I was  wondering, since my father is no longer alive, if you------ "

"Could give you away?"  Bernie interrupted. "I would be more than happy to give you away to my son."   "Is that allowed?" asked Chuck. "After all Bernie is Gary father and Gary's the groom. Would the groom's father be able to give the bride away?" 

"I don't see why not," said Jade. "As far as I know there isn't any  rule against it." 

"No, I think Jillian can ask who ever she wants to give her away," said Marissa. 

"Well that settles it then. I'll be giving Jillian away and I couldn't give my son a sweeter young lady than Jillian," said Bernie.   Jillian threw her arms around Bernie and gave him a kiss on the cheek. 

"Oh thank you, thank you so much," said Jillian.  "Mom. Jillian and I have to be going now. I'll be back in a little while. You and Dad can go to bed, you don't have to wait up for me," said Gary. 

Gary turned his head towards Marissa.  "Marissa, if you want, Jillian and I will drop you off on the way,"  Gary offered.   "That's okay Gary, Chuck and Jade are going to see that I get home okay," said Marissa. 

"Alright then, Jillian and I will see you all later," said Gary. 

A half hour later Gary and Jillian arrived at Jillian's apartment. Sherman was barking at the door. 

"Hey Sherman it's mommy. It's okay boy. It's just mommy and Gary," said Jillian trying to calm Sherman down.   Jillian unlocked the front door and Sherman came out barking and  jumping up and down to show Jillian how much he missed her. 

"I missed you too boy. Come on now, that's enough. Get down so Mommy  can come in Sherman. "

"Boy he sure is happy to see you," laughed Gary. 

"Yes, I guess he is. Gary do you have to go now? Can you stay a while? Please?" asked Jillian. "We can put on some music and dance."  "Okay," said Gary.   The cuckoo clock on the wall struck 2:00 a.m. while Gary and Jillian danced the night away. 

~~~~~

"Meow." Thump. 

It had just turned 6:30 a.m. Jillian and Gary were dancing to the song 'I Swear', by John Michael Montgomery, the song that Gary had sang to Jillian the night before. As they were dancing Jillian's head was resting on Gary 's chest and Gary's chin was resting on top of  Jillian's head. 'I Swear' was definitely becoming their song.   "Meow!" 

"Let's ignore him, maybe he'll go away," said Gary hopefully. 

Jillian lifted her head from Gary's chest. 

"Gary, maybe you should go and answer that," said Jillian. "It might be important." 

"You know, I could be on a rocket ship to Mars and that cat would be there waiting for me in his little space suit sitting on tomorrow's paper. Yep, I certainly believe that he would be there." said Gary aggravated. 

"Gary, what about the gravity? I mean there's no gravity in space, so wouldn't the cat and the paper just float around in space?" asked Jillian. 

"Knowing that cat, he would find a way to get past that." said Gary  even more aggravated. 

"Meow!"   "Okay, I'm coming, don't get your tail in a knot, I'm coming," said  Gary as he walked to Jillian's front door to let the cat in and retrieve the paper. 

"Boy you just can't give me a break can you?" said Gary. 

'Boy what do you want? I just gave you a break. There's just no  pleasing that guy,' thought Cat to himself. 

Cat ran by Gary and joined Sherman in the kitchen for something to eat. 

"Okay you two. Are you hungry?" asked Jillian. 

"Woof! Woof!" 

"Meow!" 

"Okay let's see what we can find in the refrigerator."   Jillian soon had both pets fed and then she walked over and sat on the couch beside Gary. 

"Is there anything in the paper?" asked Jillian.   "Not until 10. I have to go over on 3rd street to prevent a 4-year-old girl from getting her arm stuck in a toilet," said Gary. 

"A toilet?" asked Jillian. 

"Yes it seems that she and her 3-year-old brother are playing in the bathroom and she drops her pink hair barret into the toilet and when  she tries to get it, her brother flushes the toilet, which sucks her arm down the hole, which cause her arm to become stuck." said Gary. 

"Well where in the world was the mother  when all of this was happening?" asked Jillian. 

"I don't know, maybe she didn't know what they were up to. Kids can really get themselves in a lot of trouble sometimes," said Gary.   "I guess you're right sweetie," said Jillian as she kissed Gary gently on the lips. "I shouldn't blame the mother. Like Lorraine always tells me. Sometimes it's hard to be a parent, because you almost have to have eyes in the back of your head to make sure your kids don't get into any trouble. Even though I don't have children, I can imagine how hard that can be."   Gary nodded his head in agreement. 

"Jillian why don't you go ahead and get ready and I'll take you to work," said Gary. 

"Okay. Gary maybe you should call your parents and let them know you  are okay?" said Jillian. 

"Sure I will. Jillian would you like to look at some rings this afternoon?" asked Gary. 

"Absolutely, I should be done by 3:30, pick me up then," said Jillian.

At that she walked into her bathroom and began to get ready for work.  An hour later Gary and Jillian arrived at her office in Gary's Jeep Wrangler.

"Well here we are," said Jillian. 

"Yes, here we are," repeated Gary. "Hey, I'll see you this afternoon  and we'll go and pick out those rings," said Gary as he pulled Jillian closer to him and their lips met in a full blown kiss. After the kiss, Jillian found herself breathless and nearly speechless.   "Wow," said Jillian." And I do mean wow." 

Jillian held Gary's hand a little while longer and then she kissed him goodbye. 

"Gary, you be careful out there today," said Jillian. 

"Don't worry, Jillian honey. I will. I promise," said Gary. 

Then he gave her one lass kiss and started to walk back to his Jeep. Jillian went on into her office. 

---------------------------------------------- 

"Good morning Regina," said Jillian as she walked into the office. 

"Good morning to you Jillian. How is everything with you today?" asked Regina. 

"Right now Regina, my day couldn't be better. I'm getting married in nine weeks."   "Oh, congratulations! Hey Carly, Amy Lou, come in here quick. Jillian has some great news," said Regina. 

"What is it?" asked Carly. 

"Yes what's the good news?" asked Amy Lou.   "I'm getting married," said Jillian with delight. 

"Married? Oh we're so happy for you," said Carly.   "Who's the lucky fellow?" asked Amy Lou.   "You all know him," said Jillian. 

"We do?" asked Regina. 

"Yes, he ran out of here just yesterday," said Jillian.   "Gary Hobson? He's the man you're going to marry?" asked Carly.   "The one and the same," said Jillian.   "Jillian are you going to be able to keep him in one place long enough to marry him?" asked Amy Lou teasingly. 

"Oh don't worry about that. I'm quite sure this is one time that Gary won't be going anywhere," said Jillian. 

"All kidding aside. Jillian we are really happy for you and Gary and if there is anything you would like us to do, let us know," said Regina. 

"Well now that you mention it, there is something that you can do. I know I haven't been here long, but would you three consider being my brides maids?" asked Jillian.   "We would love to," said Regina.   "When's the date of the wedding?" asked Amy Lou.   "September 17. Both mine and Gary's birthdays are on that day too,"  said Jillian.   "So you're going to celebrate everything together with one big bang." said Carly. 

"Yeah, that's about the size of it," said Jillian. 

"Okay. Have you decided on your color scheme yet?" asked Carly. 

"Not yet, but I have one in mind. I'll tell you later. When's the first patient due?" asked Jillian. 

"At 8, his name is Maxwell Denver. He's nine years old and we call him Maxy. The last time he was here, he had some trouble with one of his back molars."   "Okay, I still have a half hour before he arrives, so I'm going in my office to make a phone call. Let me know if an emergency comes up,"  said Jillain.   "We will," said Regina. 

At that Jillian walked into her office. 

---------------------------------------------- 

"Chris, I want to go too," whined Allison. 

"No, I played with you all day yesterday. I want to go play at Randy's house by myself. I'm not taking you with me," said Chris. 

"Mommy! Mommy! Chris won't take me to Randy's house with him!" cried Allison. 

"Mom, I played with her all day yesterday. Why can't I go by myself?  Why do I always have to drag her along?" pouted Chris.   Briiiiiiiiiiiii Briiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii 

"Saved by the bell," said Lorraine to herself as she walked over to the kitchen phone to answer it.   "Hello, Porter's residence. How may I help you?" said Lorraine.   "Lorraine it's me Jillian. You'll never guess what happened yesterday. Gary and I are getting married," said Jillian excitedly.   "Mommy! Tell Chris to take me Mommy!" cried Allison. 

"Jillian hold on for just a minute, I'm having a little sibling rivalry here," said Lorraine. 

"Okay," said Jillian. 

Lorraine placed the reciever on her lap and then she turned to her  young daughter. 

"Allison, Mommy is on the phone and you know that it is very rude to interupt me or anyone when they are talking. Now you go over there and play with your dolls and when  I get off the phone, I will decide what you and Chris are going to do," said Lorraine.   "Mom, do I have to play with her?" asked Chris. as he continue to pout. 

"Christopher, we'll talk about it after I'm done talking to Aunt Jillian. Now I don't want to hear another word. Is that clear young man?" asked Lorraine.   "Yes, Mom," said Chris glaring Allison. 

"Okay, Jillian I'm back. Did you say that you and  Gary  are getting married?" asked Lorraine. 

"Mommy, are Aunt Jillian and Gary my angel getting married?" asked Allison with so much enthusiasm that she could hardy contain herself. 

"Yes sweetie, Gary and Aunt Jillian are getting married. Now let Mommy find out the details.Okay?" asked Lorraine.   "Okay Mommy," said Allison and than started to chant over and over  again "Gary and Aunt Jillian are getting married."

"Oh Jillian I'm so happy for you. Have you picked a date yet?" asked Lorraine. 

"Yes.  September 17th," answered Jillian. 

"Your birthday huh? So Gary went along with it, did he?" asked  Lorraine. 

"He sure did Lorraine. Setember 17th is Gary's birthday too," said Jillian.   "You're joking," laughed Lorraine. 

"Nope. He was born in 1965 and I was born in 1970," said Jillian. "Exactly 5 years a part." 

"Oh my, I can't wait to tell Wayne, he will be so happy for you both," said Lorraine. 

"Lorraine would you be my matron of honor?" asked Jillian. 

"Yes, I certainly will. I would be more than delighted to be your  matron of honor," said Lorraine. 

"Do you think that Allison and Chris will want to participate too?" asked Jillian. 

"Why don't you ask them? Allison come here and Chris you pick up the phone in the hall way," said Lorraine. 

"Hi you two, would you like to help me out with my wedding?" asked Jillian. 

"Yeah," said Allison. 

"Sure," added Chris. 

"Allison would you like to be my flower girl?'" asked Jillian. 

"Yeah, Aunt Jillian what's a flower girl?" asked Allison. 

"Well you walk down the aisle and you get to  toss flowers out of a little basket," said Jillian. 

"Okay, I'll do it," said Allison. 

"Thank you sweetie I knew you would." said Jillian. 

"Chris could you be my ring bearer?"

"Sure Aunt Jillian. I'd be happy to," said Chris. 

"Okay, now that that is settled, can I have your Mommy back?" asked Jillian. 

Allison returned the phone to Lorraine and Chris hung up the phone in the hall way. 

"Okay Jillian, I'm back," said Lorraine.   "Lorraine my first patient just walked in the door. I'll call you back later to fill you in on more details," said Jillian.   "Okay Sis, talk to you later, bye." said Lorraine.   Jillian said good bye to her sister and went out meet her patient.

  ~~~

Gary arrived  at 105 East 3rd Street with a few minutes to spare.  Seeing the front door he ran up the stairs and started pounding on it. A young women in her late twenties came and answered the door.

 "Yes," said the women as she answered the door. 

"Are you Marie Kasecamp?" asked Gary. 

"Yes, what can I do for you?" asked Marie. 

"Uh, where's your bathroom?" asked Gary bashfully.

"Where's my what? Are you some kind of a nut? I'm not about to let some stranger use my bathroom. Now you get out of here before I call the police," said Marie, as she shut the door in Gary's face. Gary began to pound on the door again. 

"Mrs. Kasecamp, you don't understand. Your daughter Valerie, is going  to get her arm stuck in the toilet in about 5 minutes," said Gary.   Marie opened the door and stared at Gary as if he was a martian or something. 

"How do you know that?" asked Marie. 

"I don't have time to explain. I just know," said Gary. 

"Okay buster, let's go, but you better be right, because if you're not, I promise I will have you arrested so fast, that your head will spin. You got me?" asked Marie. 

"Believe me I'm right," said Gary. 

"Come on then, follow me," said Marie.   Gary followed Marie up stairs to the bathroom. As they entered, they could see that Valerie's hand was in the toilet and her brother Donnie was getting ready to to pull the lever. 

"Donnie, don't you dare flush that toilet while you sister's arm is in there. The suction will trap her and she will be stuck for sure. What are you two during in here any way?" asked Marie. 

"We're playing with my boat," said Donnie. 

"And I dropped my hair barrette down in the toilet," added Valerie.   Marie gave both of her children  a disapproving look. 

"Now you two, the bathroom is no place for you to being playing. Come  on now, out of here the both of you," said Marie as she waved Valerie and Donnie out of the room. Gary checked the paper, satisfied that everything was okay, he started down the stairs.   "Hey wait!" cried Marie. "You didn't tell me how you knew,' 

"I just did," answered Gary. 

"That's it? You just knew?" asked Marie. 

"Yeah, that's about it," answered Gary. 

"Uh, What's your name?" asked Marie. 

"Gary Hobson," answered Gary. 

"Well any way Gary, thanks so much for letting me know. If there's anything I can do for you, just let me know," said Marie. 

"No, well now that you mention it. You could get a lock for the toilet lid and keep the door shut when no one is using it. You could always  get a sign that says occupied on one side and unoccupied on the other side, and when the bathroom is being used, just put the occupied side up," said Gary. 

"Oh Okay, I'll do that and thanks again," said Marie. 

"You're welcome," said Gary and then he started back down stairs again, only to be stopped one more time by Valerie and Donnie.   "You want to see my boat?" asked Donnie as he held the boat up for Gary to see. 

"Sure, let's take a look at it," said Gary. 

"Can I show you my Barbie Doll?" asked Valerie. 

"You sure can," said Gary. 

Valerie ran to get her Barbie Doll and Gary sat for the next hour looking at toys and enjoying himself. 

"Okay you two. I think it's time for Gary to go now," said Marie. 

"Aw, do you have to go?" asked Valerie. 

"Yeah, we want you to play with us," added Donnie. 

"Hey I'm really glad to meet you both and I certainly did enjoy myself, but I really do have to be going now," said Gary. 

"Will you come back?" asked Valerie. 

"Yeah, will you come back?" asked Donnie. 

Gary stooped down to Valerie and Donnie's level. 

"I'll do my best, But in the mean time, I want you two to listen to  your Mommy and stay out of trouble. Do you think you can do that for me?" asked Gary. 

"We'll try real hard," said Valerie. 

"Yeah," added Donnie.   "That's good enough for me," said Gary. 

Both kids threw their arms around Gary and gave him a big bear hug.  Gary returned the hug, told them to be good and then stood up to leave. 

"Bye- bye," said Gary as headed for the front door. 

"Bye and thanks again," said Marie.   "Bye Gary," said Valerie.   "Bye Gary, see you," said Donnie. 

Gary smiled at the children and waved one last good bye and then he walked out the door. He then return to his Jeep Wrangler and headed for McGinty's.

 ---------------------------------------------- 

Chuck was behind the bar, when Gary walked through the door.   "Well if it isn't the little lost sheep. Did you and Jillian have a  good time last night. Did you ah---"

"I don't think that's any of your concern," said Gary a bit perturbed.   "Oh, come on Gary, don't be such a stick in the mud. I just asked a reasonable question that anyone would have asked," said Chuck.   "No Chuck, not anyone, just you," said Gary. 

"But if you must know, Jillian and I we're dancing the night away in  her apartment." 

"You were dancing all night?" asked Chuck. 

"Yes," said Gary. 

"Oh, well it sounds like you had a great evening," said Chuck.   Gary started to answer and then realized where Chuck was standing. 

"Chuck, what are you doing behind the bar and where is everybody?"  asked Gary. 

"Well Lois, Marissa, and Jade went grocery shopping. Lois said that  your refrigerator is nearly empty, so she's going to fill it up for you. She also said that she's going to pick up some cat food for Cat and Bernie is outside cleaning out the Gray Ghost," said Chuck.   "Okay, but what are you doing behind the bar? If I recall, you don't know anything about mixing drinks," said Gary. 

"That was then, this is now. You'd be surprised how much more I know now. Would you like for me to make you a Screw Driver?" asked Chuck. 

"No thanks. Did you say that Dad was out with the Gray Ghost?" asked Gary. 

"Yeah, that's what I said," answered Chuck. 

"Okay, I'm going out to see if he needs any help," said Gary. 

"Anything in the paper?" asked Chuck. 

"There was one thing, I've already taken care of it and right now I  seem to have the rest of the day off. Jillian and I are going to go look at rings after she gets off work," said Gary. 

"Okay, Gar buddy," said Chuck.   A customer came up to the bar. 

"Hey buddy, I want a Manhattan," said the customer. 

"Oh, sure," said Chuck. "A Manhattan, coming right up. Now how do you make a Manhattan?" mumbled Chuck to himself as he looked through his book of mixed drinks. 

Gary just shook his head and went out to join his Dad.

 Gary walked up to the Gray Ghost and entered.   "Hey Dad, do you need any help?" asked Gary. 

"Sure Gar. Grab that rag there and help me wipe down the windows," said Bernie.   Gary grabbed the rag and began to help Bernie with the windows.   "Hey Gar, your mom and I are so happy for you and Jillian. She is  really a nice girl and I can't wait for the wedding so I can give her away to you," said Bernie. "Hey by the way, your mother want's to talk to you about something."   "What about?" asked Gary. 

"Well, I know what it's about, but I think I should let your mother  talk to you about it," said Bernie. "She and the girls, should be back  soon." 

'Oh boy,' thought Gary to himself, ' What could Mom possibly want to talk to me about?' 

At that moment, the girls pulled up in Chuck's red Lexus. Jade was behind the wheel. with Lois sitting next to her and Marissa and Reilly were sitting in the back. Lois and Jade exited the car and walked back to the trunk. 

"Dad, I'm going to give Mom and the girls a hand," said Gary as he  began to leave the Gray ghost to give the girls a hand. 

"Hey Gar, wait up, I'll help too." said Bernie. 

Gary and Bernie hurried over to Chuck's car. Looking inside the trunk, Gary couldn't believe his eyes, for in the bags, there was enough groceries to feed an army. 

"Mom, I'm only one person, I can't eat all of this," said Gary. 

"I know honey. Your dad and I are staying until after the wedding. So we're going to need to stock the refrigerator and the cupboard," said Lois as she picked up a bag of groceries. 

"Howzat?" asked Gary, with a shocked look on his face.

 "Oh Gary, you and Jillian are going to need help with the wedding and it's so ridiculous for your dad and I to drive back and forth, so we decided to stay and help." said Lois. 

"The whole nine weeks?" asked Gary. 

Lois smiled at her son, nodded her head and walked into McGinty's with the bag of groceries, she was carrying in her arms. 

Gary, just looked, throw his hands up in the air and mumbled to  himself, "Oh Boy," 

  ~~~

Gary grabbed a bag of groceries from the trunk and then followed the girls into the bar and up to his loft. When he entered he could see the girls putting away the groceries. Lois and Jade were placing the things in the refrigerator and cupboard and Marissa was taking things out of the bags and placing them on the kitchen table. Lois noticed Gary and said. 

"Gary, honey could you go and help your father bring up the rest of the groceries?" asked Lois. 

"If Chuck isn't busy have him help too," added Jade. 

Gary stared at his Mom for what seem to be a very long time. Lois could see that Gary was staring at her and she knew what he was thinking. 

"Gary, it's going to be alright, you'll see. Now please go and give  your father a hand." 

"But Mom---" 

"No buts, now go help your father,"said Lois.   Gary gave a frustrated sigh and headed for the door to his loft. As he approached he nearly missed running into Bernie, who was carrying two bags of groceries. 

"Hey Gar, there are still a lot more bags down there," said Bernie. 

"Just one question Dad, where in the world are you and Mom going to put all this stuff? My loft isn't that big you know." said Gary. 

"Don't worry Gar, knowing your mother, she'll find a place for everything. Hold up.  I'll join you as soon as I put these bags down," said Bernie.  Bernie placed the bags on the floor and went to join Gary. Soon, with Chuck's help, all the bags were upstairs ready to be put away. 

"Mom, do you and the girls, need any help?" asked Gary. 

"No Gary honey, everything is under control. Why don't you check and  see if there's anything in the paper," said Lois.   Gary gave the paper a a once over. Satisfied that there were no changes he glanced up at his mother and said.   "No Mom, there's nothing in the paper that needs my attention at the moment, but Mom we really need to talk." 

"Gary, it will have to wait until we get all of this put away. Why  don't you go downstairs with Chuck and Bernie and give them a hand in the bar," said Lois. 

"Yeah that's a good idea," said Marissa snickering. "God knows that Chuck could use some help behind the bar. Boy, what our customers have to put up with."   "Oh you're really a riot Marissa. Very funny. Very funny. Ha! Ha!  You're a laugh per minute," said Chuck with a frown on his face. 

"Oh I do my best," said Marissa.   At that statement everyone started laughing, which caused Chuck to  storm out of the room. 

"Oh my, I guess we hurt Chuck's feelings," said Lois. "Jade maybe you better go talk to him." 

"Okay, but don't you need my help here?"  asked Jade. 

"That's okay Jade," said Gary as he escorted her to the door. "I'll  help Mom and Marissa, besides I want to have a word with Mom." 

"Okay then, I'll be downstairs if you need me," said Jade and she  turned to leave the loft.   Gary walked into the kitchen and picked up a bag of groceries. He  placed it on the table and began to help Marissa remove the things from the bag. He picked up a couple cans of green beans and walked over to his Mom.   "Mom, we really need to talk about this. I don't think that you and Dad----" 

"Gary, come over here and sit with me for just a minute," said Lois as she took Gary's hand and lead him over to the couch. As soon as they were seated Lois made sure she had eye contact with her son and than  she began to speak. 

"Gary, I really think this is for the best. We only have nine weeks before the wedding and there's so much to do. We have to pick the church, pick out Jillian's wedding dress, the bride's maids dresses,  and then there's the catering, the flower arrangements, your tuxes and heaven knows what else. I just don't see any sense in Bernie and I driving back and forth. Now we're staying until after the wedding and I don't want to here anything else about it" 

"But I--"   "No Gary, now let's get the rest of these groceries put away." said Lois.   Gary gave a defeated sigh and started to unpack another bag. Within the hour all the groceries were unpacked and put away. Marissa excused herself and left the room and Lois started to straighten up the place. 

Gary just stood there trying to soak it all in. He and Jillian we're going to be married in nine weeks and his parents were staying until then. Would he be able to survive it? All he could do was hope. Taking  a look at his watch he could see that it was nearly 3:00 and he had to pick Jillian up at 3:30. 

"Oh boy, I better get moving," said Gary to himself.   "Mom, I have to go. I need to pick up Jillian at 3:30. We're going to look at some rings," said Gary. 

"Okay sweetie. Do you have a jewelry store in mind?" asked Lois. 

"Yes, I'm going to take Jillian to Diamond's Jewelry," said Gary. 

"Oh Gary, I've heard that's a wonderful place to shop for jewelry. I know that Jillian will just love the place," said Lois.   "I sure hope so Mom. Uh Mom, could you check down stairs and make sure that everything is alright?" asked Gary. 

"Sure sweetie, now you get moving, you don't want to be late." said Lois. 

"Thanks Mom," said Gary as he kissed Lois on the cheek and then hurried out the door.

 ---------------------------------------------- 

Gary soon arrived at Jillian's office and walked through the door. As  he walked in he was greeted by Carly, who was straightening up the waiting room. 

"Well if it isn't our little run away," said Carly grinning. 

"Hello," said Gary with a look of embarrassment.   "Hi Gary. Hey by the way congratulations on your engagement. Regina,  Amy Lou and I are going to be bride's maids," said Carly. 

"Thanks and thank you for helping out. By the way we can reschedule my appointment and I'll try really hard not to run away next time," said Gary. 

"Well let us worry about that," said Carly. "Jillian is waiting for you in her office."   "Okay thanks," said Gary and he walked back to Jillian's office. On the way back he was greeted by both Regina and Amy Lou with congratulations and well meaning taps on the shoulder.

 As Gary entered the room he could hear Jillian speaking on the phone. Jillian indicated that she saw him and continued to talk on the phone. 

"No Mom, he's nothing like Jimmy. I know Mom. Yes I remember what he did. How could I forget? Mom listen Gary is different. I know he love's me and I love him. He's from Hickory Mom. Hickory Indiana. Yes Mom, he has a job. He owns a bar. No Mom he doesn't drink a lot only a beer  once in awhile. Mom he's right here would you like to talk to him?" asked Jillian. 

Jillian handed Gary the phone. 

"My mother want's to talk to you," said Jillian  Gary took the phone and began to talk.   "H-Hello," said Gary 

"Is this Gary?" asked Shelly Matthew. 

"Uh yes this is Gary," said Gary. 

"Gary, this is Jillian's mother. My name is Shelly. We need to talk.  You see my daughter has been hurt a lot and I don't want to see her hurt again," said Shelly. 

"I-I-I'd never hurt her Mrs. Matthew. I-I a love her, I really do. Ever since I met her, she has been my world and I really want to marry her. Honest I really do," said Gary nervously. "I promise I'll never hurt her. I promise," 

"Oh Gary relax, I am sure that you won't. You sound like a very nice  man and I can't wait to meet you. You see I like your voice, so that means  I like you. When I first heard Jimmy's voice I hated it from the start.  He sounded to sneaky to me, but you have the kind of voice that sounds trustworthy. Look I'll be in Chicago in a few days and I want to meet you, after all if you're going to marry my daughter in September, I would like to get to know you. See you in a few days. Bye Gary and tell Jillian I said good bye too." said Shelly. 

"Bye," said Gary and then he hung up the phone. 

"Well what did my mother have to say?" asked Jillian. 

"A she want's to meet me," said Gary with a worried looked on his face. 

"Oh Gary sweetie don't fret so. My mother will just love you. I  promise, you'll see," said Jillian as she kissed Gary lightly on the lips. 

"Do you really think so?" asked Gary. 

"Sure, what's not to love? You're sweet, adorable and extremely cute.  So how can she help but not to love you? Hmm?" asked Jillian. 

"I guess," said Gary still unsure. 

"Hey let's forget about that right right now. Aren't we supposed to go and shop for our rings?" asked Jillian.   Gary nodded his head. 

"Then let's go," said Jillian and she took Gary's hand, grabbed her purse and they both walked out of her office together.

The End Of 21  TBC Make international calls for as low as $.04/minute with Yahoo! Messenger http://phonecard.yahoo.com/

 Title: A Never Ending Love 22/? Author: Irene Brabson Keeper of Gary's Bicycle and  Jake's 2 Red Couch Throw Pillows  Disclaimer: same as before Rated: PG Copyright: 2001  Writer's Comments: Comments are always welcome.  ~~~

Jillian and Gary were on their way to Diamond's Jewelry Store, to pick up the rings for their upcoming wedding. They were in Gary's Jeep Wrangler and Jillian was sitting quietly in the passenger side,  twirling her dark auburn hair around her finger. She was feeling bad about not telling her mother about Gary sooner and was worried about how Gary had taken it. She couldn't help but think that Gary was upset with her. 

"Gary?"

"Hmm?" 

"Are you angry with me?" asked Jillian.   On hearing this question, Gary pulled off to the side of the road, parked his jeep and then turned to face Jillian with a puzzled look on his face. 

"Jillian, we are on our way to pick out our rings for our wedding, why in the world would I be angry with you?" asked Gary. 

"Because, I didn't tell Mom about you sooner. I tried I really did, but with all the moving I had to do and my mother being a traveling sales rep, we just haven't had time to catch up with each other until now," said Jillian. 

"Jillian, I'm not angry about that, your mom seems like a real nice person and I can't wait to meet her. Did you say she was a traveling sales rep? What does she sell?" asked Gary.   "She sells cosmetics, for a company called Make Me Beautiful. She travels all over the world and has been doing this for 13 years, ever since Dad died. She just needed something to fill her life. So she started doing this and she's loved every moment of it," answered Jillian. 

"Well it sounds like your mother has lived a pretty good life. Where  are some of the places that she has travel to?" asked Gary.   "Oh she's been to Rome, Paris, and London. She's also been to Hong Kong and she just came back from Sydney, Australia," said Jillian proudly. 

"Gee, it sounds like she's been to quite a few places," said Gary.   "Oh, she has Gary and wait until you meet her. I Know that you both are going to hit it off," said Jillian. 

"I know that we will too," said Gary. "Now that that's settled let's go buy some rings." 

"Okay," said Jillian and she reached over to kiss Gary tenderly on the lips. A few minutes later they were  in front of Diamond's and were on their way in. Inside the store they saw an elderly women around sixty with snow white hair standing behind the jewelry's show case. 

"Excuse me," said Gary as he and Jillian walked up to the show case.   "Yes, may I help you?" said the lady as she turned to face Gary and Jillian.   "Yes, we would like to look at your engagement rings and wedding  bands," said Gary. 

"Of course let me show you some," said the lady and she led them to an area with wedding rings.

"Here you are, there's quite a lot of beautiful rings to chose from. Is there anything you were looking for particularly?" asked the lady. 

"Well we don't know. Can we just look and see?" asked JIllian. 

"Certainly, I will be over here. Just let me know if you would like to take a closer look at any of them," said the lady and she walked over  to  unpack a new shipment of rings.   Gary and Jillian looked over all the rings in the case, but couldn't decide on what they wanted. 

"Jillian is there anything here that you like?" asked Gary. 

"Oh, Gary, they're all so beautiful, that I'm having trouble choosing," answered Jillian. 

Jillian looked over as the lady put the new display of rings in the  show case. One of the rings caught her attention, she thought it was the  most beautiful ring she had  ever seen. The ring was white gold with a diamond in the middle with tiny  diamonds all around it. It was extremely exquisite and Jillian fell in love with it the moment she spotted it.   "Oh! How much is that one?" said Jillian as she pointed to the one she was looking at. 

"This one?" asked the lady. 

"Yes, that's the one," said Jillian. 

"Let me check the price in the book, I'll be right back," said the lady as she left the room. 

"Oh Gary isn't it elegant?" asked Jillian. 

Gary looked at the ring, he had to admit that it was quite beautiful. 

"Is that the ring you want?" asked Gary. 

"Oh yes Gary, please," said Jillian enthusiastically. 

"Okay, sure if that's the ring you want, that's the ring we will get," said Gary. 

"Oh, I love you Gary," said Jillian as she threw her arms around him  and planted a kiss on his lips. 

The lady soon re-entered the room holding the price list, she said. 

"That particular ring costs $2,000  it also includes both the woman and man's wedding band.   Jillian's heart was broken, she knew that Gary would never be able to afford such a price.   "I guess we better look at something else," said Jillian sadly. 

"Jillian, I thought that this is want you wanted?" asked Gary. 

"Oh Gary, I do, but you can't afford to pay this, it's just too much," said Jillian. 

"Jillian, I love you and I want to buy this set for our wedding, I know it's going to be a tight squeeze, but I know it will be well worth it, because you are the most wonderful thing that's ever happened to me. So please let me do this for us," said Gary. 

"But Gary--" 

"No buts," said Gary and then he kissed Jillian on her lips. 

"Okay," said Jillian after her kiss with Gary. 

Turning back to the lady, Gary asked.  "Do you take credit cards?" 

"Yes we do. We take VISA and Master Card," said the lady.   "I have VISA," said Gary as he took the card out of his wallet and placed it on the counter. 

The lady looked at the card and was satisfied that everything was in order. 

"Sir would you like anything engraved on the bands?" asked the lady. 

"Yes I would, but not until I pick them up  between September the 14th to the 16th, but I would like the engagement ring now," said Gary.   "Well I can't give you the engagement ring now, this is only a display model, but let me see what size ring you both wear and I will order the set right away." 

Both Gary and Jillian nodded and the lady checked for their ring size. 

"You young lady wear a size 5 and your handsome fiance here wears a 9 1/2. I will place the order and let you know as soon as they arrive. Could you please give me a telephone number  where I can reach you?" said the lady. 

Jillian and Gary both gave the lady their number, that way she could contract one or the other. Soon they were finished and Gary and Jillian walked out the door with Gary's arm around Jillian's shoulder and Jillian's arm around Gary's waist.   As soon as they arrived back to Gary's Jeep Wrangler, Gary lifted Jillian's chin until their eyes met.   "Hey pretty lady, why don't you and I go out for a night on the town?" asked Gary. 

"But Gary, what about the paper and you just put out $2,000  at the jewelry store," said Jillian.   Gary gently placed his finger on Jillian's lips.   "I don't want to hear any more talk about what I put out for the  wedding bands, because you are definitely worth every penny and don't you ever forget that," said Gary as he caressed Jillian's face with his fingers.   "But----" 

"No buts and there's nothing in the paper tonight, so we can have tonight all to ourselves," said Gary.   "What if something comes up?" asked Jillian.   "I'll ask Dad and Chuck to handle it tonight, that way we won't have to worry about it. Come on what do you say? I can take you home, you can get ready and I'll pick you up around 7. Okay?" asked Gary. 

"Okay, do you have any place in mind?" asked Jillian. 

"Where ever you want to go is okay with me," said Gary. 

"Well I'll let you know when you pick me up. One thing I will tell you, be sure to wear a suit and tie," said Jillian.   "Your wish is my command," said Gary. "Hey maybe I should take you home so you can get ready." 

"Okay, then let's go," said Jillian. 

~~~

Jillian was studying herself in the mirror. She and Gary were going out on the town tonight and she wanted to be sure that everything was in place. She was wearing a strapless dress, that fit her like a glove.  The dress was turquoise in color, with matching jewelry and heels. She had her hair up in a french twist and for the finishing touch she was putting on her lipstick and sprayed on a little bit of White Diamonds, her favorite perfume . 

'There,' she thought to herself. ' I sure hope Gary approves.' Jillian then turned to Sherman and said. 

"Hey Sherman, how does Mommy look? Hmm boy?" 

"Woof! Woof!' Sherman was barking with excitement and his tail was hitting the floor at 100mph. 

"My my, that good huh?" asked Jillian laughing. 

"Woof!" 

"Well thank you sir. Now all I have to do is wait for Gary."   Gary pulled up in front of the apartment house where Jillian lived on Freemont Street. He was dressed in a navy blue suit, with a white shirt and a light blue tie to match. He exited his Jeep Wrangler with a bouquet of red roses for Jillian and headed for her apartment. 

Ding Dong! 

"Woof! Woof!"   "Okay Sherman boy, don't get excited I know he's there. Well here I go, wish me luck," said Jillian as she answered the door. 

"Hi handsome," said Jillian as she opened the door and saw Gary  standing there. 

Gary's eyes couldn't believe what they were seeing. In front of him was the most beautiful sight he ever aw and he gave himself a pinch to make sure that he wasn't dreaming. 

"Ouch! Wow and I do mean wow!" said Gary. 

"Do you like?" asked Jillian.   "Oh Boy, you are just down right gorgeous," said Gary.

 "Well thank you and you are quite handsome yourself," said Jillian. 

Jillian noticed that Gary was hiding something behind his back. 

"Gary, what do you have behind your back?' asked Jillian. 

"What do I have behind my back?" asked Gary. 

"Yes, behind your back,"  Jillian repeated.

"Well let's see what's back there," said Gary. 

Gary swung his right arm in front of him and Jillian gasped at the  sight of the bouquet of roses that Gary was holding. 

"Oh, Gary, they are the most elegant roses I've ever seen. Thank you so much," said Jillian as she passionately kissed Gary on the lips, which he happily returned. Taking the roses from Gary, Jillian went to find a vase. 

"Gary, let me put these in some water and then we can go. By the way  Amy Lou recommended a place called the Silvery Moon. She said that she and her husband Ray go there all the time. It's over on 54th Street. Do you think we can try it out?" asked Jillian.    "Sure Jillian honey, it sounds great to me," said Gary.   Jillian found a vase and placed the roses inside. Then she grabbed her purse and turned towards Gary. 

"Okay then. I guess I'm as ready as I'll ever be. So let's go  handsome," said Jillian. 

"Take my arm, pretty lady," said Gary as he held out his arm for  Jillian to take  and then they both walked out the door. 

Fifteen minutes later they found themselves standing inside The Silvery Moon Restaurant, waiting to be seated. The Silvery Moon was a exquisite place, with tables made of mahogany wood, which were covered with white silk table cloths, that had elegant silver candelabras sitting on each table. To top it all off the ceiling had luxurious crystal chandeliers, which gave a soft glow to the room.   "Oh my heaven's Gary. Doesn't this place just take your breath away?" asked Jillian. 

"Yes Jillian it certainly is a nice place," answered Gary. 

At that moment the host approached Gary and Jillian.   "A table for two sir?" asked the host.   "Yes please," answered Gary. 

"Is there any particular place you would like to be seated sir," asked the host. 

Gary turned to look at Jillian. 

"Jillian is there any place that you would like to sit?" asked Gary. 

"No, any where is okay with me," said Jillian. 

"Well I guess any where will be fine," said Gary.  "Come this way then sir," said the host and he led Gary and Jillian  over to a table that was next to a big picture window which had a good view of the night lights of Chicago. Gary helped Jillian with her seat and then he sat down across from her. The host waited a few minutes to make sure they were ready and then he asked. 

"Sir is there anything else you would like?" 

"Yes, do you have a wine list?" asked Gary. 

"Yes sir. I will send it over with your waiter. He will be here shortly," said the host and then he walked away. 

Jillian's eyes examined the room. She couldn't believe how luxurious everything looked. On the walls were elegant paintings of some of the sites of Chicago. Such as the Sears Tower and Navy Pier. The picture window to her left was everything the host said. The night light's of Chicago could take your breath away. 

"Oh, Gary thank you for bringing me here. It's just so wondrous. I just love this place." said Jillian. 

"You're welcome, but don't thank me, thank Amy Lou and her husband  Ray," said Gary. 

"Yeah, that's true they recommended the place, but you could have said no and suggested some place else," said Jillian. 

"Jillian, as long as I am with you, I would have gone to a hot dog stand." said Gary. 

"Oh, I love hot dogs. Some day I may take you up on that," said  Jillian. 

"Okay, it's a deal," said Gary. 

At that moment the waiter appeared at their table. 

"Would you like to see a menu sir?" asked the waiter. 

"Yes, we would and do you have the wine list?" asked Gary. 

"Yes sir, here is your menu and the wine list," the waiter handed Gary and Jillian the menus and then he waited for them to order. 

"Gary have you decided on what you would like?" asked Jillian. 

"Well, I kind of like this roast duck with orange sauce, it sounds pretty good." said Gary. 

"That will be just perfect, make it two," said Jillian to the waiter. 

"Yes ma'am and have you decided on the wine yet?" asked the waiter. 

"How does Misty Red sound to you?" asked Gary. 

"I don't know, I never tasted it. Is it good?" asked Jillian.   "Yes. It's a dry red wine, with a very light taste. I think you will like it," said the waiter. 

"Okay, bring it on then," said Jillian.   "Yes ma'am, I will return with your order shortly."   Gary and Jillian were soon served their meal and in a little while they were finished and sharing their bottle of wine. Gary put his glass of wine on the table and then he looked at Jillian.   "Jillian, I want you to know that our love will be a never ending love. I will love, cherish and adore you for the rest of my life and beyond.  I promise that I will never hurt you or give you a reason to have any doubt about my love for you. I can't wait until you are Mrs. Gary Bernard Hobson." 

"Well Gary Bernard Hobson, I Jillian Michelle Matthew, can't wait to be your wife," said Jillian and then they both stood up, leaned across the table and kissed each other tenderly on the lips.  "Hey pretty lady, what else would you like to do tonight?" asked Gary  as he took a look at his watch. 

"What time is it handsome man?" asked Jillian.   "11:00 PM and the night is still young," said Gary. 

"I know, why don't we go see a play?" asked Jillian. "I heard that  Magic Love is playing over at the Palance. I heard it quite good." 

"Okay Magic Love it is," said Gary. 

Gary paid for the meal as they walked out the door, a few minutes later they were both inside Gary's Jeep Wrangler and on their way to the Palance. Jillian was sitting and thinking quietly to herself, she was curious about something and decided to ask Gary. 

"Gary?" 

"Hmm? 

"Gary Bernard?" 

"Howzat?" 

"How come your parents only named you partly after your father?" 

"You want to know that?" 

"Yes, I'm just curious," 

"Okay, no problem, I'll tell you on the way to the Palance." 

 ~~~~~~~~

Gary and Jillian drove in silence on their way to the Palance. Jillian was waiting for an answer to her question so she decided to break the silence.

"Well?" asked Jillian.

"Well what?" asked Gary.

"Well aren't you going to answer my question?' asked Jillian.

"What question was that?" asked Gary.

"The one I just asked you a few minutes ago," said Jillian.

"Oh, that question. Okay sure. Let's see where do I start? You see Jillian, my Dad wanted to name me completely after him and my mom use  to tell me that he would just pester the life out of her, the whole nine months she was carrying me. She told me he nearly drove her nuts with this, but she was willing to go along with him. You know the whole nine yards, completely after Dad. They were even planning on calling me Barney. That was so they wouldn't get me mixed up with Dad," said Gary.

"Barney?" asked Jillian with a sour look on her face.

"Yeah, Barney, can you just imagine calling me Barney? Yuck!" said Gary making a face.

"No I can't and I am really glad that they named you Gary, because you certainly don't look like a Barney," laughed Jillian.

"Yeah, I have to agree with you," said Gary with a twinkle in his eyes. " I am certainly glad my parents aren't calling me Barney these days. The thought of it just makes my skin crawl, but any way, that was Dad's plan up to the day I was born. Then for some reason he just suddenly changed his mind and decided that he didn't want a Junior. So what's a baby to do? There I was about 20 minutes old and I didn't have a name. Thank God my Mom came to my rescue, when she was listening to a song on the radio called 'This Diamond Ring' by Gary Lewis and the  Playboys----"

"You mean Jerry's son?" asked Jillian.

"Yes, that's who I mean," answered Gary. " You see she kind of liked  the song and the name Gary, and she also wanted to name me partly after  Dad, so the result was Gary Bernard Hobson and the rest is history," said Gary.

"Well I'm glad that you were named Gary Bernard Hobson, the name just suits you to a T," said Jillian.

"You really think so huh?" asked Gary.

"I surely do," said Jillian.

"Okay, then, how did you get your name?" asked Gary.

"Oh you don't want to know about that, It's not as interesting as yours," said Jillian.

"Sure I do, how did your parents come up with your name?" asked Gary.

"Okay, if you insist," said Jillian. "This is going to be hard to believe, but I was named after a person my parents and I have never met."

"Howzat?" asked Gary.

Jillian smiled at Gary, she just loved the way he said that, when ever he was confused. The look on his face was just priceless. Taking a deep breath she continued.

"On the day that I was born, my mother shared a room with a women who just gave birth to her 5th child, and they were all girls. Any way Mom and this women became pretty good friends while they were in the hospital together. My mom and this women would chat about everybody and everything. My mother's room mate told my mother all about her five daughters and what each of their names were . Anyway one of them was named Jillian Michelle and when my mom heard the name, she liked it so much she decided to christen me with the same  name and so like you said, the rest is history."

"You mean you never met your namesake?" asked Gary.

"No, my mother never saw her room mate again after that, so therefore I never met the person I was named after," said Jillian.

"Well one thing I know for certain," said Gary.

"What's that?" asked Jillian.

"Who ever she is, there is no way in this world that she is more beautiful than you are. No way," said Gary as he shook his head.

"Oh Gary, thank you, that was sweet," said Jillian as she leaned over and kissed Gary on the cheek.

"You're welcome, beautiful," said Gary as he placed his arm around Jillian's shoulder and pulled her closer to him. Soon they found themselves at the Palance. Gary drove around for a parking place, but there was none to be found anywhere. Jillian was looking herself, but she was having no more luck than Gary.

"Oh boy, this must be some play, we can't even find a parking space," said Gary, frustrated.

Jillian placed her fingers on Gary lips. She loved how smooth and moist they felt.  She traced her finger around every line and curve and then she kissed them with so much gusto, that it made Gary's body quiver all over. She then looked into his mud puddle green eyes and said.

"Hey handsome, I really didn't want to see this play anyway. Why don't you and I go for a ride some where. Some place where we can be alone," Jillian suggested as she trailed kisses up and down Gary's face.

"A- I- A -know the perfect place,where we can be alone. Would you like me to take you there?" asked Gary.

"Okay handsome, lead on," said Jillian.

Gary started up his Jeep Wrangler and pulled away from the Palance and drove off to his and Jillian's destination. A little while later he pulled up in front of the Sears Tower.  He found a parking space and then he went around to help Jillian out of the passenger side. Jillian stepped out on the side walk and looked up at the towering building.  She was just simply in awe at the sight.

"Gary are we going to go up and see all the lights of Chicago?" asked Jillian delighted.

"That's why I brought you here, because I wanted you to see how beautiful Chicago looks at night and I can't think of a better place to show you than up on top of the Sears Tower," said Gary.

Jillian smiled at Gary, took his hand and they both proceeded to the  top of Sears Tower.

Jillian soon found out that Chicago at night was everything that Gary said and more. She could see so much from up here, such as the Hancock Building, the ferris wheel at Navy Pier, where Gary and she had been trapped together and where he proposed to her. She could also see how lovely the city lights would glimmer off the waters of Lake Michigan. Never in her life had she seen anything quite as magnificent and she  was loving every minute of it.

  Gary too was looking, but not at the city lights of Chicago, but at the glorious sight that was standing next to him. He loved  everything about her. The way she smiled, the way she talked, the color of her hair, the beautiful violet color of her eyes and the fact that she was in love with him.

Jillian turned around to meet Gary's mud puddle green eyes. She loved the way he would look at her when ever they were alone, she loved the fact that he sang 'I Swear' to her, which soon became their song, even though he claimed he didn't have much of a voice. She also loved the puppy dog look he gives her when ever he knows that she is angry with him, and the color of his eyes were enough to sweep any girl off their feet.

But it just wasn't any girl, he fell in love with. He fell in love with her and she was with out a doubt in love with him. Gary put his arm around Jillian and she moved closer to Gary and rested her head on his shoulder.

"Say beautiful, what do you think of the city of Chicago at night?"  Gary asked, softly.

"Oh, Gary, it's everything you said it would be. I think this city is  so grand, that it makes me more glad that I moved here. And it doesn't  hurt that the most marvelous man in the whole wide world lives here too," said Jillian.

"Really?" asked Gary.

"Really," answered Jillian and at that moment their lips met and they kissed with all the love and passion they had for each other.

~~~

Gary and Jillian spent the next couple of hours on top of the Sears Tower, just soaking in each others love.The night was  beautiful, with  a full moon and millions of stars which made it even more romantic. Jillian had never felt so joyous. It was a feeling she hoped would  never end. 

"Gary?" 

"Hmm?" 

"Isn't the night just so magical? I mean just look at all the wondrous things about it. The full moon, the stars-----" 

"The only stars that I see, are the ones in your eyes and they are more beautiful than any star in the sky," said Gary. 

"Oh Gary, how did I ever survive all those years without you?" said Jillian as she gently stroked his face. 

"Jillian, I don't know. But I do know this, there is no way that I  would ever survive without you now. I love you so much."

"I love you too, Gary. I really do."   Gary pulled Jillian closer to him and he gently ran his fingertips over her face before he put his mouth on hers. Jillian could taste the sweetness of Gary's tongue and felt the intense heat of his body. Her body tingled all over as she gave her heart to the man she loved. 

"Meow!" 

Gary could hear the familiar sound, but he had chosen to ignore it and continued to kiss the woman he loved. But after a while the cat became too persistent and Gary finally lost his cool. 

"Oh, go away Cat," said Gary as he turned back towards Jillian and started to trail kisses down the back of her neck.

Jillian loved the feel of Gary's breath as he eagerly kissed her neck and as much as she never wanted it to end, she knew that they soon had to called it a night. 

"Gary, honey?" 

"Hmm?"

"Gary, maybe Cat's trying to tell you something," said Jillian. 

Gary looked up and glanced impatiently over to where Cat was sitting. 

"Yeah, he's trying to tell us what a pest he can be," said Gary. 

"Gary, honey come on, maybe something's wrong. Check and see if maybe the paper is with him," said Jillian.   Gary gave Jillian a sad look and proceeded to walk slowly over towards Cat. 

"This better be important, for your sake Cat. You got me?" asked Gary.   "Meow!" 

"I'll meow you,"  Gary threatened.   Gary took a look around where Cat was sitting, but didn't see heads or tails of the paper. 

"Nope, no tomorrow's newspaper, so it's not important," said Gary. "So you can go home now Cat. Tell Mom and Dad that every thing is okay and I'll be home soon. Shoo now, go on with you."   Gary tried to make Cat leave , but Cat stubbornly held his ground. 

"Come on Cat, get your own girl, this one belongs to me. Go on now, get out of here, will ya?" asked Gary. 

Cat just continued to hold his ground. 

"Meow!" 

"Cat for heaven sakes, will ya please go home?"asked Gary angrily. 

Jillian noticed how stubborn Cat was being and she could see that Gary was beginning to lose his cool. She turned Gary towards her, made sure she had his attention and then she began to speak.   "Gary, I think he's trying to tell us it's time to call it a night. Beside's honey, I have to work in the morning and you have the paper to deal with. There's also the fact that your mom, the girls and I are going shopping for my wedding gown tomorrow afternoon and I really need my rest to pick out the perfect dress. And by the way, don't forget you have to have your hand checked tomorrow too," said Jillian.   "Is that tomorrow?" asked Gary. 

"Yes sir, that's tomorrow, at 9:30 am," said Jillian.   "Well okay.  When are you going to shop for your gown?" asked Gary.   "Oh, after I finish work tomorrow," said Jillian 

"Well can a-I-a come along?" asked Gary. 

"Oh, Gary don't be silly. You know the groom isn't suppose to see the bride in her grown until the wedding day." said Jillian. 

"Well it didn't hurt to try," said Gary with a smile on his face.  "Okay, I guess I better be getting you home then."   Gary turned towards Cat, and gave him a disapproving look. 

"Are you happy now? Party pooper," said Gary sarcastically. 

"Meow!"   "Meow! yourself," said Gary. 

"Gary, come on sweetie, let's go home,"said Jillian as she gently took Gary's hand and placed it in hers. 

"Okay," said Gary. I guess you're right."   Gary and Jillian were soon seated in Gary's Jeep Wrangler and they were headed back to Jillian's apartment. 

 "I guess we should say good night," Gary sighed as he walked her to  the door.   "Yeah, I guess so," said Jillian and she stretched up and kissed Gary delicately on the lips. 

Gary kissed her back with gentleness and the love he had for her and then he turned to leave.   A thought came to Gary and he turned back around to see Jillian unlocking her front door. 

"Jillian?"   "Yes,Gary?" 

"Will I see you tomorrow? I sure hope so, I don't think I can bear even one day with out you."   "Gary sweetie, I'm going to be real busy tomorrow, shopping for the  gown and other things. But I do have an hour for lunch between 12 and 1, so why don't we go to Lincoln Park and have a picnic?" Jillian suggested.

"Sounds great, I'll have Mom pack us a basket," said Gary. 

"That sounds just wonderful, good night Gary, be careful driving home and I love you," said Jillian.   "Good night Jillian," said Gary as he gave her one more kiss, before he walked off towards his Jeep Wrangler.

 ---------------------------------------------- 

The next morning Gary was awakened when he felt Cat jumping up on his chest. Gary had slept on the couch in the office, so that he wouldn't wake his parents, who were asleep up in his loft. Gary opened his eyes, took one look at what woke him up and then just groaned. He was definitely in no mood for Cat at that moment. He was tired and wanted  to go back to sleep, for he didn't get in till 4:30. 

Of course Cat knew this, but that was Gary's problem not his. All Cat knew was that Gary was the chosen one and it was up to Cat to make sure that Gary was up and ready to face any new challenges.

 "Meow!" 

"Okay, okay, I'm up, geez don't get your fur ruffled. I guess, I better go up stairs and get dressed. Oh boy, I hope I don't wake Mom and Dad." said Gary. 

Gary headed upstairs to his loft, he could see that there was a light on, so he knew right away that one of his parent's was up. It was probably his Mom. She was always an early riser. Gary waked into the loft and saw his Mom in the kitchen, fixing breakfast.

 "Hi," said Gary 

"Good morning Gary. Well just don't stand there, breakfast will be  ready soon. We're having blueberry hotcakes and syrup. Your Dad's in the shower and when he gets out you can take your shower and then we will all eat. Okay now go over and pick yourself out something to wear."  said Lois.   Gary walked over to his closet and pick out a pair of blue jeans and  his red checked shirt to go with them, he then placed them on the bed and walked back to the kitchen to wait until his Dad finished with the shower. Lois stood at the table beating the hotcake mix and was  watching Gary read the paper. She could tell by his body language, that he  didn't get much sleep last night. 

"Gary, what time did you get in last night?"asked Lois. 

"Around 4:30," answered Gary. "Jillian and I had such as wonderful night, we just lost track of time. It seemed like we were the only two people in the world and time no longer existed." said Gary.   "Sweetie, I understand what you mean, your father and I've have had  that feeling many times. But you look awfully tried, are you sure you're going to be able to handle the paper today?" asked Lois.   "Oh sure Mom, there's nothing in the morning and I don't have my first save until 4:00 pm and after that I have one more at 9:45 pm and that's it for today. Unless of course the paper changes, which it usually does."   "Okay sweetie, but don't forget your doctor's  appointment at 9:30 to have your hand checked," said Lois. 

"I won't Mom. Jillian reminded me too.  How much longer do you think Dad's going to be in there? I would like to get showered and dressed some time today," said Gary.   "Hey, did someone say my name? Hey Gar, good morning. Did you and Jillian have a good time last night?" asked Bernie.   "Yeah, Dad we did.  Mom, Jillian told me that you and the girls were going to help her pick out her wedding gown today," said Gary. 

"That's right Gary, Marissa, Jade and I are all going with Jillian to help her pick one out." said Lois. 

"Mom that's great. Ah... could you do me a favor?" asked Gary. 

"Of course sweetie, what would you like me to do?" asked Lois. 

"Pack Jillian and I a picnic lunch, so we can share it at Lincoln park, when Jillian is on her lunch break," said Gary. 

"Okay sweetie, I'll have it ready when you come back from having your hand checked. Now hurry and shower so we can eat breakfast and you can get ready for your appointment." said Lois. 

Gary picked up his clothes from his bed and turned to walked into the bathroom. 

 ~~~

It was 9:45 am and Gary was in a room in the emergency section of St. John's Emergency Hospital. He was sitting on the bed waiting for the doctor on call to come and examine his left hand, which he burned  during a save last week. After what seemed like a decade, Doctor Megan Anderson walked into the room.

"Good morning Mr. Hobson," said Doctor Anderson as she looked at Gary's chart. "It says here, that you received second degree burns on your  left hand last Monday afternoon and Doctor Logan was on call at the time. Doctor Logan treated you and gave you prescription for an ointment to put on for pain. Is this information correct?"

"Yes doctor, it's correct," answered Gary.

"Okay then, let's take a look." Doctor Anderson began removing the bandages from Gary's left hand. She examined the palm of his hand and the first three fingers, where the worst part of the burn was. The hand was healing nicely, with healthy pink skin coming in.

"Well, It looks like it's coming along just fine," said Doctor  Anderson. "I'll just put some lotion on and rewrap it. There that should do it.  By the way Gary, why were you here so early? Your appointment wasn't until 2:00."

"2:00? I thought it was at 9:30 AM. Oh Boy. What made me think that my appointment was at 9:30?" asked Gary.

"Don't worry about it, we weren't that busy this morning, so it didn't hurt to take you early. At least you have the rest of the day to yourself."

"Yeah, I guess you're right. Doctor Anderson, will my hand have any scarring from being burned?" asked Gary.

"Well Gary, there made be a little scarring, but the lotion will help make it next to invisible. Don't worry about that. Your hand is healing nicely. Just next time, stay away from fires. Okay?" asked Doctor Anderson.

"You got yourself a deal. When do you want me to come back for a follow up?" asked Gary.

"Well, next Monday at 9:30 am, since you're an early bird. Now continue putting the lotion on and keep the wrap clean and we'll see you next week. Bye for now and take care," said Doctor Anderson as she strolled out of the room.

Gary also left the room and headed for the main doors. Stepping outside he looked at his watch, seeing that it was only 10:05 am, he decide to return to McGinty's.

 ----------------------------------------------

Jillian was sitting at her desk, going over one of her patient's  charts, when she heard foot steps coming into her office. When she looked up, she couldn't believe who was standing in front of her.

"Mom! I didn't expect you for at least another day or so. Oh my gosh, it's good to see you," said Jillian as she rushed into her mother's arms.

"Jillian, my sweet girl, I'm so happy to see you too. I got here  earlier than I expected and I remembered where you said your office was and  here I am. Let me take a look at you. Oh I'm so proud of you. I love you,  you know that don't you?" asked Shelly Matthew.

"Oh Mom, of course I know that. Well what do you think of my new office?" asked Jillian.

"Honey, I really love this place and your patients couldn't have a better dentist, but what I really want to know about is Gary. He seemed pretty nice over the phone, but I would like to know a little bit about him," said Shelly.

"Oh Mom, Gary is the sweetest, kindest, the most considerate man that you would ever want to meet. The moment I saw him, I knew that there  was something special about him.  When he helped Allison after she fell  into an old abandoned well at the old Baker's farm, my feeling about him was sealed for life. Mom I never in my life have loved someone as much as I love Gary. He is my life and I want to spend rest of my life with him." said Jillian.

"Jillian honey, when I talked to Gary on the phone, I liked him the minute I heard his voice. He sounded nothing like Jimmy, who I disliked from the start. To me, Jimmy seamed like an upstart know-it-all, but Gary was different. He sounded like he was really sincere and I could tell that he really does love you and that's all that matters to me.  Hey when do I get to meet your fianci?" asked Shelly.

"Well Gary and I are having a small picnic at Lincoln Park at  noon, so I will introduce him to you then," said Jillian. "By the way Mom would you like to come along with the girls and I to help me pick out my wedding gown?"

"Yes, I would and who are the girls?" asked Shelly.

"The girls are Marissa Clark, Gary's partner at McGinty's and a very good friend, Jade Fishman, Chuck Fishman's wife and Chuck is another good friend of Gary's and Gary's mom Lois," said Jillian.

"Of course I would love to come along and meet Gary and the rest of the gang," said Shelly.

"Good, here is an extra key to my apartment on Freemont Street, take  the EL and I will see you later," said Jillian.

"Jillian, Mrs. Miller is ready for you now," said Carly.

"Okay, Carly I'll be right there. Now Mom you go to my apartment, and get some rest. All right?" asked Jillian.

"Okay sweetie, I'll see you and Gary later, bye sweetie," said Shelly  as she kissed Jillian on the cheek and then walked out of the office.

----------------------------------------------

Gary arrived at Jillian's around 11:45 am, he checked on the picnic basket and then walked on into Jillian's office.

"Hi Gary," said Regina as she saw him walk through the doorway. "I  heard that you and Jillian were going on a picnic."

"Yes, we are. My mom packed us a picnic basket," said Gary as he showed Regina the basket.

"Here I am Gary. Are you ready to go?" asked Jillian.

"Oh definitely, I am ready to go," said Gary.

"Okay then, let's go," said Jillian. "Oh Regina, I'll see you and the girls after lunch."

"Okay Jillian, have a good time, and don't worry if you are a little late, your next patient won't be here until 1:30. So you don't have to rush back."

"Thank you Regina. Bye I'll see you later," said Jillian as she took Gary's hand and walked out the door. Soon they were at Lincoln Park and they started to look around for a nice spot to have their picnic.

"Gary, there's a beautiful spot," said Jillian as she pointed over at a spot near the fountain.

"Okay, then I guess this is it," said Gary.

"Here help me with the table cloth," said Jillian as she started to unfold it.

"My pleasure, beautiful lady," said Gary.

Before long Gary and Jillian, had everything set up and they were getting ready to enjoy a nice picnic together.

"Let's see what my mom packed us. Jillian do you like barbecued chicken?" asked Gary.

"Yes, I love barbecued chicken. What else did she pack us?" asked Jillian.

"She packed us some potato salad, some macaroni salad, some pretzels  and cheese curls and for dessert pecan pie," said Gary.

"She also packed a bottle of wine that we can share."

"Gary your mom really packed a great lunch for us. I know that we are going to enjoy it," said Jillian as she reached for a chicken leg.

It wasn't long before Jillian and Gary had eaten every bite of the picnic lunch. Jillian had finished off her last bite of pecan pie and then she laid down, resting her head on Gary's lap.

"Hi beautiful, " said Gary as he leaned over and kissed Jillian full on the mouth.

"Hi yourself, handsome," said Jillian and then she gave all the love  and compassion she had, for the man that she loved.

~~~

The afternoon was warm and pleasant. Gary and Jillian were soaking up the sun and sharing a moment of passion together. Gary loved being with Jillian and he knew that she had to return to work soon and he had the paper to deal with.  But he found himself wishing that this moment  could go on forever. 

"Hey beautiful, guess what I wish?" said Gary. 

"What do you wish handsome?" said Jillian as  she looked into Gary's mud puddle green eyes. 

"I wish that that this moment could last forever. Yes that is what I've been wishing," said Gary as he ran his fingers though Jillian's hair  and lightly kissed her on top of the head. 

Jillian looked up at Gary and smiled, she also didn't want this moment to end. She felt quite safe in Gary's arms and he made her feel like a woman, which was something that Jimmy could never do. 

"Gary?" 

"Hmm?" 

"I had a wonderful time being with you and we'll have to thank your  Mom. That picnic was absolutely delicious," said Jillian. 

"Yeah, it was really quite good, but I know something more delicious," said Gary. 

"Oh you do, do you? What in the world could that be?" asked Jillian.   "You," said Gary and he started to nibble on her ear lobe. Jillian giggled with delight. 

"Hey beautiful, what's so funny?" asked Gary. 

"That tickles," laughed Jillian.   "Oh it does, huh? Well in that case, I'll just do it some more," said Gary and he continued to nibble on her ear lobe.   "Oh God, Gary! That tickles. Gary!" 

By this time Jillian was laughing so hard, she could hardly catch her breath. 

"Gary, oh boy, I need to catch my breath, whew, oh my," said Jillian as she sat trying to catch her breath. 

"You okay?" asked Gary. 

"Yeah, I'm okay" said Jillian. "Hey I think we better be getting back. It's 10 after 1 and I'm expecting my next patient at 1:30," said Jillian. 

"Well I guess if we must, we must," said Gary sadly. 

"Oh don't look so unhappy. We'll see each other this afternoon when I come to McGinty's so the girls and I can go shopping for my gown and other things we need for the wedding. Oh, by the way my Mom's in town and she just can't wait to meet you." said Jillian. 

"Gee, I can't wait to meet her either. She sounded real nice over the phone," said Gary. 

"She said the same thing about you," said Jillian. 

"Hey, why don't we have a late dinner and invite her to join us, that way we can get acquainted," said Gary.   "That's a wonderful idea and Lois and Bernie can join us too." said Jillian. 

"Okay, a where would you like to go? asked Gary. 

"How about Italian?" asked Jillian. 

"Fine, I know this great Italian restaurant over on 3rd Street. It's called House of Italy. They serve some real good pasta there, I think that you will enjoy it." said Gary 

"Okay, how does 8:00 sound to you?" asked Jillian.   "That sounds fine with me." said Gary. 

"Gary, instead of going there, why don't we just have a nice meal at McGinty's, that way Marissa, Chuck and Jade can join us too," Jillian suggested.   "Are you sure you don't mind?" asked Gary.   "No I don't mind. Mom will really enjoy sitting down and eating with your family and friends and we can still have an Italian meal, I mean maybe Tony can fix us up with something. What do you say? Do you think he would?" asked Jillian. 

"Yeah, I think he will. Well I guess we better get going, it's almost  15 after." said Gary. 

Jillian and Gary cleaned up the area they were at and then returned to Gary's Jeep Wrangler and drove back to JIllian's office. When they arrived at the office door, Gary bent down and kissed Jillian gently on the lips and told her he would see her tonight and then he turned and walked off toward his jeep, glancing at the paper as he went. 

---------------------------------------------- 

It was going on 4:00 pm and Jillian was finishing up some last minute details, when her mother walked into  her office. 

"Hi Jillian honey. I brought you a change of clothes so you wouldn't have to waste time by going home. I hope these will do. Are you  about ready to go?" asked Shelly as she handed Jillian the bag of clothes. 

"In just a few minutes Mom, I need to update the computer and then I will change and we will be out of here. Okay?" asked Jillian. 

"Okay honey, I'll be waiting right out here for you, don't be long"  said Shelly and she walked out towards the waiting room. 

A few minutes later Jillian was changed into rose pink shorts with a matching top. She walked over to where her Mom was sitting and then she stood in front of her to let her know that she was ready to go. 

"Okay Mom, I'm ready," said Jillian. "Regina, I'll see you tomorrow." 

"Bye Jillian, I'll be leaving here soon too. Don't forget to tell us about the gown tomorrow. Carly, Amy Lou and I are dying to know every detail." said Regina. 

"I promise, I'll tell you every single detail tomorrow and don't forget we have to get you three your bridesmaid gowns yet too." said Jillian. 

"Maybe we can get together some time this week," said Regina. 

"How about Saturday after we close? We can all go then," said Jillian. 

"Perfect. We close at 12 on Saturday, so that should work out just  fine. I'll let Carly and Amy Lou know," said Regina. 

"Fine, then Saturday's the day. Well Regina, Mom and I really have to  be going now, so I'll see you tomorrow," said Jillian.   "Bye Jillian, see you tomorrow," said Regina and then Jillian and her Mom walked out the door.

 ---------------------------------------------- 

"Hey has Jillian arrived yet?" asked Gary as he walked into the bar  from the office.   "No not yet, but she and her mother should be arriving soon," said  Lois. 

"Okay, Mom. You do know that we're all getting together and having dinner tonight. Don't you?" asked Gary.   "Yes, Jillian called and filled us in on all the details and Tony is going to fix us  a nice Italian meal," said Lois. "I just can't wait to meet Shelly. I know we will all hit it off just fine."

 "Okay Mom. Say, I have to go over to Wabash and keep a woman from getting knocked down by a skate boarder. If I don't she'll fall and break her hip," said Gary.   "Oh my. in that case you better hurry on over there," said Lois "Gary you be careful now," 

"I will Mom, I promise." Then he kissed Lois on the cheek and hurried out the door, running into Jillian and her Mom in the process. 

"Well hi handsome. Are you off to run one of your errands?" asked Jillian as she glanced towards the paper. 

"Yes, I have quite a few to errands to run ," said Gary. 

"Oh, will you be back in time for dinner?" asked Shelly. 

"You can count on it," said Gary. " It's very nice to meet you Mrs. Mathew. I'm sorry I have to run now, but I'll be back as soon as I  can." And then he kissed Jillian lightly on the lips and then hurried out the door. 

"Boy he sure is in a hurry. Isn't he?" asked Shelly. 

"Well Mom, it's just that he has a lot of errands to run, that's all," said Jillian 

"Oh, that's no problem Jillian, I like a man that keeps busy. It shows me they have character and strength and that fiance` of yours  definitely has them both. Hey when do I get to meet the rest of the gang?" asked Shelly.   "Now," answered Jillian and she led her Mom over to the table where  Lois and the girls were waiting. 

"Mom this is Lois, Gary's Mom and this is Marissa and Jade," said Jillian.   "Hey! what about us?"  Bernie wanted to know. 

"Yeah," said Chuck. 

"Oh, of course, we can't forget those two," laughed Jillian. "Mom these two hoodlumsare Bernie, Gary's dad and Chuck----" 

"Gary's best friend," said Chuck proudly . 

"I'm pleased to meet all of you," said Shelly.  "And I'm looking forward to the dinner tonight and the wedding in September. 

"Well, are we all ready to go," asked Lois. 

The girls nodded and they all grabbed their purses and headed for the door. 

"Bernie, we'll see you and Chuck later," said Lois. 

"And you MIster, behave yourself," said Jade as she kissed her husband tenderly on the lips. 

"Oh that's no fun," said Chuck teasingly. 

"Bye sweetie I'll see you later," laughed Jade. 

"Come on already. I can't stand the suspense," said Jillian.   Soon the girls were in Jade and Chuck's Lexus and heading for 'Brides-n-Stuff'. 

~~~

"Well here we are," said Jade as she pulled up in front of 'Brides and Stuff'. "I guess I better drive around to the parking lot and find a place to park." 

"Yeah, that sounds like a sensible idea," remarked Jillian. 

"Well this place looks as good as any place," said Jade and she pulled into the parking space that she had chosen. 

One by one the girls exited Jade's Lexus. Lois waited to make sure that Marissa was out of the car and then they all walked around to the front and entered into 'Brides and Stuff'. 

"Oh my goodness, look at all the glamorous gowns. There are so many, I just know that I'll have trouble picking out just the right one," said Jillian with a look of awe. 

"Yes, they are quite beautiful," said Shelly, looking around the room. 

Lois and Jade were also looking and describing some of the gown details to Marissa. 

"Oh this is one of those times, that I wish I could see, they all must be very elegant I can almost picture them in my mind," said Marissa as she soaked in every detail Lois and Jade were describing. 

Jillian's eyes were roaming around the room, when she had gotten a glimpse at the most luxurious gown she had ever seen. It was all white, off the shoulder and sleeveless. The bodice was covered in lace, shaped in the form of diamonds and the skirt hung all the way to the floor, with a beautiful trane in the back. Jillian fell in love with it the moment that she saw it. 

"I found it!" screamed Jillian. 

"May I help you, young lady?" asked a sales clerk who looked to be around 50. 

"Yes, how much is that gown over there?" Jillian asked as she pointed  to the mannequin that was wearing the gown she was admiring. 

"This one?" asked the sales clerk as she placed her hand on the gown. 

"Yes, that's the one. Oh, how much is it? And does it come in a size 5? Also does it have a veil or do I have to buy that separately?" asked Jillian as she rambled off each question. 

"My, my. You do have quite a few questions there, don't you?" said the clerk as she smiled at Jillian. 

"Yes, my daughter is all excited, she's going to be marrying Lois's son Gary (and she put her hands on Lois' s shoulder) in about 4 weeks and I guess she's just getting a bit antsy," said Shelly. 

"Oh that's no problem," said the sales clerk. 

"Now let me see if I can remember all of your questions. Okay. the  dress is $500, but it is on sale for $350. Yes it does come in a size five  and this particular dress has a silver tiara instead of a veil and it also has white, wrist length gloves that go with it. Would you like to try  it on?" asked the sales clerk. 

"Yes, I would," said Jillian excitedly. 

"Okay then come with me back to the fitting room and we will see how it look's on you," said the sales clerk. 

Jillian followed the clerk back to the fitting room to  try on the  gown. She soon had it on with a little bit of help from Lois and Shelly and then she took a look at herself in the full length mirror that was out in the lobby.

"Oh, it's just simply the most elegant dress, I've ever seen. Oh my  God, I love it. I really do," said Jillian as tears of total happiness streamed down her face. 

"Hey everyone, what do you think? Do you like it?" asked Jillian,  hoping that they would. 

"Oh Jillian, you look so beautiful in that gown. It was made especially for you," said Shelly, with tears in her eyes. 

"Yes, I couldn't agree more," said Lois. "Gary is just going to go wild over you. You really do look quite lovely." 

"Hey, can someone please fill me in?" asked Marissa. "What does the  gown look like?" 

Jillian began to describe the gown to Marissa in detail. 

She made sure that she left nothing out, so that Marissa could see in her own way how glamorous the gown really was. 

"Oh the way you describe it Jillian, I can almost see it and I can imagine that you must really look grand in it," said Marissa. 

"Jade, what do you think? Do you like the gown?" asked Jillian. 

"Yes, I do. I think the tiara adds just the right touch, and I love the way that it comes off your shoulders. Yes, you really do look quite  nice Jillian, you really do," said Jade. 

"Well is this the one?" asked the sales clerk. 

"Yes, this is the one I want," said Jillian. 

"Okay then, follow me up front and I'll ring you  up," said the sales clerk. 

As the mother of the bride, Shelly paid for the gown and everyone was soon back into Jade's Lexus and headed back to McGinty's.

 ---------------------------------------------- 

Gary soon returned to McGinty's after he had handled the latest assignment in the paper. He had gotten to the site, just before the accident was to take place and he managed to talk the skateboarder into skating at the park, instead of on a Chicago sidewalk, where someone could get hurt. So the woman didn't break her hip, the paper changed to an article about a flower show and everything turn out all right. Checking the time, Gary saw that he only had about 2 hours to get ready for the meal that Tony was fixing for this evening, so he decided to go into the kitchen to see how the preparation was coming along. 

"Hey Tony, how is everything coming along?" asked Gary as he walked  into McGinty's kitchen. 

"Oh Mr. Hobson, everything is coming along just fine. Would you like to know what's on the menu for this evening?" asked Tony.

 "Yes I would," answered Gary. 

"First we will start out with a Lobster Caesar Salad with Garlic Lemon Croutons. I found this recipe on what you call the internet? And then  we will have Pasta Primavera and for dessert, there will be your favorite Mr. Hobson, pecan pie." said Tony. 

"Everything sounds delicious Tony. How soon can we expect dinner?"  asked Gary. 

"Will 8 o'clock be okay Mr. Hobson?" asked Tony. 

"That will be fine, " said Gary and then he started to walk out of the kitchen, when Tony called him back. 

"Mr. Hobson?" 

"Yeah Tony, what is it?" asked Gary. 

"Mr. Hobson, could I please have tomorrow afternoon off? You see Abby took a home pregnancy test and it came up positive and she made an appointment with her doctor and I want to go along for support. Please Mr. Hobson, I really need to be there. Please," begged Tony. 

"Are you saying that Abby may be pregnant? Well that is really great news. Why don't you just take the whole day and spend the time with Abby? You two have a lot to celebrate," said Gary. 

"But, who's going to work in my place?" asked Tony. 

"Oh I'm sure that Charlie won't mind filling in for you tomorrow. What do you say Charlie, is it all right?" asked Gary. "You know you will  get paid extra, for doing this." 

"Yes, Mr. Hobson, I can fill in for Tony," said Charlie. 

"Okay then, it's all settled. You take tomorrow off and be with your wife and Tony, tell Abby congratulations," said Gary. 

"Thank you Mr. Hobson," said Tony as he started to give Gary the traditional Italian kiss on the cheek. 

"Whoa Tony, a hand shake will do just fine," said Gary. 

"Thank you again Mr. Hobson, Thank you again," said Tony shaking Gary's hand. "I promise dinner be ready by 8." 

"Okay Tony. Well I guess I better go upstairs to take a shower and get dressed for this evening," said Gary. 

And at that Gary left the kitchen and started up the stairs to his  loft. 

~~~

Gary was soon showered, dressed and back down in the bar. Bernie was sitting at a table and strumming his fingers on it. Gary looked around and noticed that Chuck wasn't there. 

"Hey Dad, where's Chuck? Isn't he going to be here for the dinner this evening?" asked Gary. 

"Oh sure Gar, he just had to go to the TV studio and go over a script for his sitcom 'Count My Blessing'. Chuck said that he would be back in plenty of time for the dinner," said Bernie.   "That's good, because Jillian's mother, Shelly, is going to be here and she want's to meet everyone tonight," said Gary. 

"Don't worry Gar, Chuck will be here in plenty of time,"  Bernie  assured him.

"Well I hope so. Tony is putting his heart and soul into this meal and  I want everything to go like clockwork," said Gary. 

"Gar relax. Everything will turn out just fine. You'll see," said Bernie. "By the way, have you and Jillian picked out the church yet?" 

"Oh boy Dad not yet. With all the things that happened these last few weeks, we just haven't had time," said Gary. 

"Well I may have found you one if you are interested," Bernie  announced. 

"Well of course I'm interested, after all Jillian and I are getting married," said Gary. "So tell me where the church is located?" 

"Okay. Do you remember the elderly couple you helped rescue from that hostage situation?" asked Bernie. 

"Oh, do you mean Jerry and Sherry Hull?" 

"Yeah, they're the ones. Well anyway, they showed up here while you  were out, to thank you for what you did for them and we got to talking. I mentioned that you and Jillian were getting married and it turns out that Jerry is a Methodist minister and he said that he would be more than happy to perform the ceremony," said Bernie. "He said just give  him a call and he will set it up with you and Jillian. Here's the number." 

Bernie handed Gary over a slip of paper, Gary took it and began to read what was on it. United Methodist Church 14001 Lake Shore Drive,  Chicago, Illinois, Phone number: 312-555-3100.  "Thanks Dad, I will talk to Jillian about it tonight and then we will get back with them," said Gary.  At that moment the girls walked into McGinty's, after their shopping trip. Noticing that none of them were carrying a shopping bag, Gary asked. 

"Hey I thought you were going shopping for your gown?"

 "We did," said Jillian. "We dropped everything off at my place. Come on Gary, do you really think that I would leave the packages here, so you could take a peak at my gown? I don't think so, silly boy."   "Well-a-you-a-see I-I-wouldn't do that," 

"Oh you are so cute when you do that,"said Jillian, throwing her arms around Gary's neck and kissing him fully on the lips. 

"Hey you two, none of that mushy stuff now," teased Bernie. "Besides, I sure would like to know what all you girls bought." 

"Yeah, I'm kind of curious myself," added Gary. 

"Well besides picking out my gown and all the accessories that went  with it, we also bought Christopher's suit. Lorraine will make her's and Allison's dresses herself. Then Regina, Carly and Amy Lou, met up with us and we picked out their brides maids gowns. They will all be in matching gowns, the color of lavender and Lorraine will be wearing violet. I decided on  pink carnation for Allison's gown. 

"Excuse me," said Bernie, but I have a stupid question. If Lorraine is that good at sewing, why doesn't she just make all the gowns? I mean wouldn't that save you a lot of money in the long run?" 

"Well that may be true, but that would mean a lot of extra work for Lorraine and we only have four weeks before the wedding, so that wouldn't give her much time," said Shelly. 

"Besides, it would take are the fun out of shopping for the big event," added Lois. 

"Hey everyone, I hate to break this up, but we have a dinner to get ready for. Tony is really fixing up an excellent meal tonight," said Gary. 

"Don't worry, honey. Everyone will be ready in plenty of time," said Jillian. "Oh Gary, we have to go to Betsy's Flower Shop tomorrow and pick out the flower arrangements."   "Jillian, I don't know anything about flowers. Can't you take your Mom or my Mom with you?" asked Gary. 

"Gary, you don't have to know anything about flowers, the sales girl will help us out. Come on honey, I really want you there with me," Jillian pleaded, as she began to play with the buttons on Gary's shirt. 

"Okay, I'll come with you," said Gary. 

"Oh thank you honey," she said before kissing him. "Well I better take my dress I brought from home and go up stairs to change."   "Jillian, we need to talk about where we're going to have the ceremony at," said Gary. 

"Okay honey, we will tonight after dinner," said Jillian before she walked into the office and headed for Gary's loft. 

---------------------------------------------- 

It was 20 minutes to eight and everybody was getting ready for the  feast that Tony and the kitchen staff were serving. McGinty's had been closed since 7. Chuck had made it back around 7:10 and was also helping to get things ready. 

"Hey Gar, what is Tony serving tonight?" asked Chuck. 

"It's something really special, I'm quite sure that you will enjoy it," answered Gary. 

"Okay, but what is he serving?" asked Chuck with curiosity. 

"You'll see when we all set down to eat. Now help me put these tables together," said Gary as he struggled to push one of the tables. 

Chuck helped Gary and soon they had the tables together. 

"Boy, these tables are a lot heavier than they look," said Chuck as he stood to catch his breath. 

"Yeah, they sure all," said Gary, his breathing short and labored from pushing and pulling. 

Jillian walked over with two vases of yellow mums and handed them to Gary. She wore a gold dress, with spaghetti straps that hugged every curve of her body.  Gary couldn't help staring at her as she walked towards him. 

'God she is so beautiful, what in the world did I do deserve some one  so gorgeous?' thought Gary to himself. 

Gary's heart was pounding and he was trying his best to quiet it with absolutely no luck. 

"Hey handsome, do you like?" asked Jillian as she whirled around to  show Gary her dress. 

"Uh, well! I mean, gee, oh boy do you ever look gorgeous," said Gary  his heart still pounding and his hands sweating. 

"Thank you handsome," said Jillian smiling at him and reaching up to plant a kiss on his lips. 

Gary  hoped the vases wouldn't slip out of his hands, which were wet with sweat. 

"Gary,  hold those for a minute, while Jade, and I place the table  cloth on the table," said Jillian. 

"Okay, Jillian," said Gary. 

"Jillian, by the way. Where are my parents and your mom?" 

"Your Mom is checking on dinner, your Dad is upstairs getting ready,  and my Mom took Marissa home so Marissa could get ready for tonight. They both should be back soon." said Jillian. 

Jillian and Jade soon had the table cloth on and Jillian took the vases of yellow mums from Gary's hands and placed one on each table. 

"There, that looks just fine," said Jillian. "Thank you for your help Gary. You too Jade."   "You're welcome," said Jade. 

"Well it's 10 minutes to eight, I guess I better make sure that everything is ready," said Jillian.  "Gary, what do you think we should serve to drink?" 

"Well maybe some kind of a light wine, such as Korbel Brut it's a good sparkling wine and I'm pretty sure we have some, I'll go and check," said Gary. 

"Hey buddy let me do that. I know exactly where it's at and it will  save some time," said Chuck. 

"Okay, thanks Chuck," said Gary. 

"Anytime Gar, anytime," said Chuck.

~~~

Chuck soon returned with the Korbel Brut and handed it to Jillian. 

"Thank you Chuck," said Jillian. "I'll  have Mike put this on ice." At that Jillian walked back to the kitchen to do just that. 

"Jillian, honey is there anything more I can do to help get ready for dinner?" asked Gary, calling after her. 

"No Gary sweetie, everything is just about ready. All that's left to do is the serving and for my Mom and Marissa to return." said Jillian. 

As if on cue Shelly and Marissa entered through the front door at McGinty's. Marissa was wearing a light green blazer and skirt with matching jewelry and shoes. Shelly was wearing a long sleeveless dress, which was scarlet in color. The dress made her look much younger than her 52 years and quite beautiful.  Lois was returning from the kitchen and went over to greet them. 

"Oh my, you two look just lovely," said Lois. 

"Thank you Lois and I think you look nice in your dress too. The color really compliments your eyes. "

Lois was wearing a sky blue, short sleeve dress that came just below  her knees. It had a V neck line and around her neck was a sapphire choker, that Bernie had given her for her birthday earlier that year. 

"Thank you Shelly. Well I guess we all better get seated so that Tony and the kitchen staff can start serving the meal," said Lois. 

The three women walked towards the table. Gary made sure that Marissa was seated and then turned his attention to Jillian who was getting ready to seat herself. 

"Hey beautiful, let me pull that out for you," said Gary, pulling out the chair for Jillian and waiting patiently while she sat down. 

"Thank you Gary," said Jillian.   "You're welcome," said Gary before  he kissed Jillian on the lips. 

Jade was standing by her chair waiting for Chuck to pull it out for  her. When he didn't make a move, she decided to give him some kind of clue. 

"Chuck, haven't you forgotten something?" asked Jade waiting patiently by her chair. 

"No I don't think so," teased Chuck who knew exactly want Jade wanted. 

"Chuck!" said Jade in a hurt voice. 

"Oh Jade, for Pete sakes. You know how to pull out a chair," said  Chuck. 

"Yes, that's true, but I thought that you could be a gentlemen like  Gary and pull it out for me," said Jade. 

"Then asked Gary to pull it out," Chuck responded sarcastically. 

Gary could see that Jade was nearly in tears and had seen  enough of  the way that Chuck was treating her, all because she asked him to pull out the chair for her. 

"Chuck, I don't want this dinner destroyed because of your stubborness. Now all Jade is asking is that you be a gentlemen and help her in her seat. Now is that too much to ask?" Gary wanted to know.

Gary always had a way of making Chuck feel guilty and this time was no exception.   "No Gar, that's not too much to ask," Chuck replied sheepishly.   Chuck stood up from his chair and turned to Jade. 

"Jade, I'm sorry. It's just that I been having problems with one of the actors on the set and I'm not quite sure how to handle it. I didn't  mean to take it out on you. I love you Jade," Chuck said tenderly as he  wiped a tear from her cheek and embraced her in his arms.   "I love you too Chuck," said Jade. 

"Hey why don't I help you get seated so we can start the feast," said Chuck.   "Okay," said Jade, smiling at her husband and kissing him lightly on  the lips. 

Soon everyone was seated and Tony and the kitchen staff began to serve the meal. 

"Well this all looks really delicious," said Bernie, as Tony and the staff began to place  the Lobster Caesar Salad in front of each of  them. 

"Mmm, this is really good," replied Shelly. "You did a marvelous job."   "Yeah, what is it?" asked Chuck as he put a bite into his mouth.   "It's A Caesar Salad, that I found on the internet called Lobster  Caesar Salad with Garlic Croutons. 

"Oh is that what it is? I never tasted Lobster before. It sure does  have a nice flavor to it. Don't you agree Gary?" asked Jillian.   "Yes, Jillian this is really good. You did a fine job Tony," said Gary. 

"Yes Tony, you did a fine job indeed. Don't you all agree?" asked Shelly. 

Everyone at the table agreed with Shelly by nodding their heads. 

"Thank you, please let me know when you are ready for the main course," said Tony. 

"We will Tony and thanks," said Gary. 

"You're welcome Mr. Hobson. Enjoy your salad," said Tony before he walked back to the kitchen with the rest of the kitchen staff. 

"Sir should I pour the wine now?" asked Mike as he came  towards their table with the bottle of Korbel Brut.   "Yes that would be fine, Mike," said Gary. 

Soon Tony and the staff returned with the Pasta Primavera, the main  meal of the evening, and served a plate to each one of the guests. 

"Tony this is delicious," Jillian praised.   "Yes, you and the kitchen staff really out did yourself tonight," said Gary. 

"Compliments to the chef," replied Chuck raising his wine glass. 

"Here, Here," echoed Bernie. At that, all the guests raised their glasses in a toast toward Tony.   "Thank you everyone, now you enjoy the meal. Tony will return to the kitchen," Tony said before  turning and walking away. 

"Hey Gar, have you mentioned to Jillian what we talked about today?" asked Bernie.   "We decided to wait until after the meal," Gary answered.   "Oh Gary I don't mind, after all everybody here is part of this wedding too, in some way or another," said Jillian.   "Okay, Jillian. Do you remember that elderly couple I saved in the hostage situation?" asked Gary. 

"Gary, I would rather forget about that, but yes I do remember. Weren't their names Jerry and Sherry Hull?" 

"Yes that's their name. Well it turns out that Jerry is a Methodist minister and he said that he would be more than happy to perform the ceremony," said Gary. 

"Okay, how do we get in touch with him?" asked Jillian. 

"Here's the number that he left to call," said Gary as he handed her  the number. 

"Good, let's call him after we are done here and see if we can make appointment for tomorrow," Jillian suggested. 

"Okay," said Gary. 

"Mr. Hobson, is everything okay?" asked Tony. "Would you like some dessert sir."   "Yes, Tony I think everyone is ready for dessert. Hey Tony have you  told everybody the good news?" asked Gary. 

"Oh, can I Mr. Hobson?" asked Tony. 

"Of course you can," said Gary. 

"Everybody, my Abby is going to be a mother," said Tony standing as proud as a peacock. 

"Congratulations Tony, We're so happy for you," Jillian replied.   "Well I'm glad it's you and not me," said Chuck.  "I don't think I'm ready for all those dirty diapers and late night wailing."   "Well buster, you better be getting ready, because there's a little Fishman coming in about 7 1/2 months," said Jade with a half grin on  her face. 

"What!" 

Boom! 

That was the last thing Chuck remembered before everything went dark. 

~~~

"Chuck! Chuck! Are you okay?" asked Jade rushing to Chuck's side. 

Just seconds before, Chuck had fainted dead away after hearing the the news that he himself was about to become a father. By this time Jade  was stooping down beside him and gently tapping his face in an attempt to bring him around. 

"Come on Chuck, open your eyes, come on honey wake up. It's not as bad as all of that. Come on honey wake up," Jade pleaded. "You're going to make a wonderful father. Please wake up," 

Chuck's eyes started to flutter and slowly but surely he began to open them. The first thing he saw when he was finally ready to focus, was  the concerned look on his wife's face. 

"Uh a did-a you say what I thought you said?" asked Chuck, still wrestling with what he had heard as he struggled to get up and get to a chair

"Yes Chuck, you heard exactly what you thought you heard," said Jade. 

"But how? I mean--- "

Bernie couldn't believe what had just came out of Chuck's mouth and as hard as he tried, he couldn't stop himself from going into a uncontrollable fit of laughter. 

"Hey Chucko if you don't know, Lo and I would be more than willing to discuss the birds and the bees with you," said Bernie, who by this time was just roaring with laughter. 

"Are you kidding Dad? You couldn't find the right words to teach me, without getting all red in the face and acting silly about it," said Gary with a chuckle.   "I don't know about that, I think I did a fine job in teaching you all the basics," said Bernie. "After all, I taught you everything you  needed to know."   Gary just looked at his dad and then mumbled under his breath, thinking that Bernie could not hear.   "No Dad, everything I learned about sex was from the movies, TV and other resources," said Gary. 

"I heard that," said Bernie, making a face at Gary.   "Okay you two clowns, that's enough. You know that's not what Chuck meant," said Lois firmly.   "I quite agree, you two are acting like a couple of two year olds. Now if you don't mind I would like to find out more information about the baby," said Jillian. 

"Yes, so would I," said Shelly. "When do you expect your little bundle of joy, Jade?" 

"Our little Fishman, should be making an appearance around April 7th," said Jade. 

"That means it happened on the night that you came home from California," said Chuck, doing the math quickly in his head.   "Yes Chuck, we really had a wing-ding of a time that night," said Jade, as she gave him a wink. 

"It's just that we were apart for nearly 6 weeks and I missed you so much in that time," said Chuck. 

"Chuck, that will be a night, that I will always remember, because that's the night that we started a beautiful new life. Our baby Chuck, our baby," said Jade.   "Our baby," said Chuck. "Our very own baby." 

Chuck sat quietly in his seat, trying to take it all in.  He couldn't believe that he was about to become a father and wasn't too sure that  he was ready to face that challenge yet. 

"Jade? I don't know how to be a father. I wonder if I can handle it?" asked Chuck being really unsure of himself. 

"Chuck, believe me you are going to make a wonderful father. Our baby  is going to be loved, like no baby has ever been loved before. You'll see, everything is going to be all right." said Jade.   "Hey Chuck, Jade is right, you and Jade are going to make wonderful parents. I have no doubt in my mind about that," said Gary. 

"I agree with Gary," said Jillian. 

"We all do," added Marissa. 

Chuck looked at everyone at the table and then he turned to Jade. 

"Jade just do me one favor," said Chuck. 

"And what's that?" asked Jade. 

"If we ever get stuck in an elevator together, please don't go into labor, cause I just don't think I could go though that again," Chuck explained.   "Okay Chuck, I'll do my best, but it's totally up to our baby. I really have no say over it,"  Jade laughed.   "Okay, but could you have a little chat with our baby about this?" Chuck hoped.   "I'll see what I can do," said Jade.   "Well I hope so," said Chuck. Chuck then turned to Gary and shouted.   "Hey Gar! I'm going to be a father!" 

"Hey Chuck! I know! What am I shouting about?" Gary laughed. "Well anyway congratulation to both you and Jade." 

"Thanks Gar," said Chuck with a smile that went from ear to ear. 

"You're welcome Chuck," said Gary patting Chuck on the shoulder.

 ---------------------------------------------- 

It was now around 10:30 pm. Gary was driving Jillian home and they were talking about how successful the dinner was tonight. 

"Gary, I really thought that the meal went over just wonderful tonight. I am just so happy for Chuck and Jade and Tony and Abby too. I know  that they're going to make wonderful parents," said Jillian. "I just can't wait until we have a little one of our own."   "You know what beautiful? Neither can I.  And you know what else? I bet you, she is going to be a beautiful as you are," said Gary. 

"Oh, I don't know he might be as handsome as you are," said Jillian, kissing Gary lightly on the lips. 

"How about we have twins, a boy and a girl? Then we'll both be right," said Gary returning Jillian's kiss with love and compassion. 

"I'm all for that, handsome," said Jillian.   Soon they arrived at Jillian's apartment. Gary exited his Jeep Wrangler and then went around to the passenger side to help Jillian.   "Would you like to come in for a while?" asked Jillian as she took her house keys out of her purse. "We really need to discuss what needs to  be done before the big day. After all it's only a week away now. One week from today to be exact." 

"I know," said Gary. "We sure have quite a lot to do yet." 

"Okay, then let's go inside and see what needs to be done," said Jillian. 

Jillian turned around to open the door, when suddenly it seemed to open by itself. Shelly was standing there with a small suitcase in her hand. 

"Mom, I thought you would be in bed and what are you going with that suitcase?" asked Jillian with a startled look on her face. 

"Oh, Jillian this suitcase isn't mine. It's Lorraine's. I'm helping her and Wayne  unpack," said Shelly. 

"Lorraine and Wayne are here? When did they get here?" asked Jillian. 

"Around 9. Allison and Chris are sleeping on opposite ends of the couch and like I said just a few minutes ago I'm helping Lorraine and Wayne  to unpack," said Shelly. "And hi to you Gary. I didn't mean to ignore you, I was just totally happy about having both of my girls here. It's not too often that we can get together, because I have to do so much traveling for 'Make Me Beautiful' beauty products," said Shelly. 

"Hey don't worry about it. Believe me there was no offense taken," said Gary. "Say why don't we go in and give Lorraine and Wayne a hand with the unpacking?" Gary suggested.   "I'm all for that," said Jillian. 

"Then let's go. Believe me your sister and brother-in-law can use all the help they can get. You should see all the stuff they brought with them. They're only going to be here until after the wedding, but you would think that they planned to move in forever judging by the load they brought along," laughed Shelly. 

The trio walked into Jillian's guest room where Lorraine and Wayne were unpacking. Seeing Lorraine, Jillian walked over and threw her arms around her younger sister. 

"Hey Lorraine, I wasn't expecting you, Wayne and the kids until at  least friday, but I'm really glad that you came tonight," said Jillian. 

"Hey sis, we had to come early, to make sure that you and Gary had everything in order. After all we don't want to forget anything, not even the smallest detail.  I'm sure that you both want your wedding to go as smoothly as possible, and we're here to make sure that it does," said Lorraine. 

"Thanks Lorraine, I really think there are some things that we should  go over tonight. That's if you and Wayne aren't too tried from your trip," said Jillian. 

"No, I'm not too tried. How about you Wayne honey, are you too tired from our trip?" asked Lorraine. 

"Nope," said Wayne. 

"Okay, now that's settled, let's go to work," said Shelly. "After all  we still have a lot to cover before the big day."  

 ~~~

Everyone was once againseated at Jillian's dining room table to go over the necessary things that needed to be done before the wedding. 

"I will take notes, to make sure that we haven't forgotten anything important," said Lorraine, pulling out a small note book from her  purse.   "Okay, now where do we begin? Jillian have you and Gary gotten the license yet?" asked Shelly. 

"No Mom not yet, we plan to do that tomorrow. I'm going to close up a little early tomorrow so we can pick out the flowers and purchase the marriage license," said Jillian.   "Will you be able to do that?" asked Gary. 

"Sure, my last patient is at 2, so there should be no problem," said Jillian.   "Okay that part is settled. You're also going to check about the church tomorrow? Right?" asked Shelly.   "Yes Mom, tomorrow evening around 4:30," answered Jillian.   "Mommy! Mommy!" 

The group turned around at the sound of a small child's voice. Allison was standing at the door, in her Baby Bop PJ's and holding her Baby Bop stuffed toy. 

"Mommy, me and Baby Bop can't sleep. Chris won't stop kicking us," said Allison as she rubbed her eyes from sleepiness. 

"Oh Allison, it's past midnight you should be asleep," said Lorraine, picking up her young daughter and sitting on a near by chair with her.  "But Mommy, Chris won't stop kicking me and Baby Bop. Gary!" screamed Allison as she slid off her mother's lap and ran into Gary's open arms. 

"Gary, I'm so glad to see you, I really missed you. Are you and Aunt Jillian really getting married? Can I called you Uncle Gary? Are you still my angel?" asked Allison as she rattled on with one question  after another. 

"Yes, your Aunt Jillian and I are really getting married. You better call me Uncle Gary and if you want to call me your angel, well that's definitely alright with me," said Gary. 

"Gary, I love you," said Allison throwing her arms around Gary's neck and giving him the biggest bear hug that she could possibly give him. 

"I love you too, Allison," said Gary as he hugged her in return. 

Wayne looked at the clock and noticed that it was 12:25 a.m. and that was way past Allison's bed time. 

"Hey Love Bug, you should be asleep. Your mother is right, it's way  past your bed time. Come on Love Bug I think it's time for you to go back  and return to the land of the sand man," said Wayne. 

"But Daddy, Chris won't stop kicking me," said Allison. 

"Wayne, why don't you put Allison on my LaZboy recliner? It lays back enough to sleep on. She shouldn't have any problems falling asleep on it," said Jillian. 

"Okay, we'll do just that. Come on Love Bug, let's get you back to  bed," said Wayne.   "Daddy can Gary do it? I want him to sing Teddy Bear Picnic for me," said Allison. "Please Gary."   "Sure, I'll be glad to do that for you," said Gary, lifting Allison up in his arms and walking towards the living room with her. 

Jillian smiled with happiness as she watched Gary interact with her young niece. 'I can't wait until we have our first child. Gary's going to make such a terrific father, I just know he is. He is so good with Allison,' Jillian thought to herself. 

Soon Gary had Allison back to sleep and rejoined the group. 

"Have I missed anything while I was gone?" asked Gary.

 "No we we're discussing some other things while we were waiting for you," said Wayne. 

"Yes Gary, Jillian told us that your friend Chuck and his wife are expecting their first child in April," said Lorraine. 

"Yes that's true. We also found out that Tony, the main cook at McGinty's, well his wife Abby are expecting too," said Gary.   "Gee that's swell. You know I hope you two will start a family right away. Allison keeps asking for a baby sister, but she'll just have to settle for a baby cousin, because Chris and Allison are enough to keep me busy," said Lorraine. 

"I hope we do too. I just can't wait to see Gary holding our first child. I know he will make such a wonderful father," said Jillian. 

"Oh I don't know about that. But there is one thing that I am certain about, she or he will definitely have a super mom," said Gary pulling Jillian to his side and kissing her gently on the lips. 

Jillian felt warm in Gary's arms. There was no other place that she wanted to be. She felt safe and secure and she was hoping that this feeling would last forever. Next Monday couldn't come fast enough for her. 

Gary loved holding Jillian in his arms. She felt warm next to his chest and as he soaked in the sweet aroma of her body, he realized for the first time since he was a child that he was actually looking forward to his birthday. Because that was the day that Jillian and he would be married and for the rest of their lives they would share their  birthdays and anniversaries together. What more could a man ask for?

"Hey you two love birds, let's make sure that we're not forgetting something," said Shelly as she smiled at her daughter and her future son-in-law. 

On hearing what her mother said a thought popped into Jillian's mind. 

"Gary, have you heard from Diamond's Jewelry yet? We really need to  pick up the rings as soon as possible," said Jillian.   "No, but I'll call first thing in the morning," said Gary. 

"Gary, I think it would be better if I called, you have enough to do, with all those errands that you have to run," said Jillian.   "Well okay. Maybe that would be better," said Gary. 

Jillian nodded her head in agreement then she turned to her family. 

"Hey guys, I think we've covered enough for tonight. As much as I want him to stay, Gary needs to be getting home, he has quite a few errands to run before he meets me tomorrow evening. So I guess we should called it a night," said Jillian.   "No problem, I was on my way to meet the sand man myself," said Wayne. 

"Okay, I'll just walk Gary out to his Jeep and then I'll be right  back," said Jillian. 

"Take your time sweetie. Lorraine, Wayne and I will go ahead and turn  in for the night. See you in the morning," said Shelly and she walked over and kissed Jillian and Gary both on the cheek. 

"Good night Mom, I won't be long," said Jillian. 

Gary and Jillian walked hand in hand out to Gary's Jeep. 

"You know what handsome? This time next week, we won't have to do  this," said Jillian. 

"Yes, I know, we will be married and we can say good night to each  other in our very own bed. Ah Jillian, you don't mind living in the loft for the time being do you?" asked Gary.   "Gary, I would live anywhere as long as I am living with you. I love  you so much," said Jillian.   "My God Jillian, I love you with every breath in my body. I promise, I will never give you a reason to be sad. I will love you till the day that I die and beyond," said Gary. 

At that, he pulled her close and kissed her longingly.   'Oh September 17th, please hurry, so I can be with my man,' thought Jillian as she felt the sweet taste of Gary's lips.  

~~~

'Good morning Chicago, it's 6:30 am and time for the weather--' 

Whack! Gary turned off the radio by slamming it with his left hand. He then laid back on the bed and went over in his head all the things that Jillian and he had left to do before their big day.  "Meow!" 

"Okay, I hear you, just give me five more minutes," pleaded Gary. 

"Meow!" 

"Okay, Okay, just a couple more minutes," Gary pleaded even harder. 

"Meow!!!" 

"Okay, Okay, I'm coming, don't get your tail in a knot," said Gary with disgust. 

Gary rolled out of bed and began to walk towards the door to his loft, on opening it he saw, just like always, Cat sitting on tomorrow's  paper. 

"Meow."   "Meow, yourself. You just couldn't wait five more minutes? Could you?" asked Gary. 

"Meow." 

Gary just shook his head and then bent down to pick up his special paper. 

"Listen Cat, whatever it is that you and whoever want me to do today,  it better all be done before 3. The reason why? I have to meet Jillian at 3:30 and I don't want to be one second late. Are we clear, Cat?" asked Gary. 

"Meow." 

"I'll meow you," said Gary as he eyed the cat up and down. 

Searching through the paper, Gary didn't see anything that needed his attention at that moment, so he placed the paper on the couch. 

"Well everything seems to be alright at the moment, so I guess I'll fix some breakfast."   "Meow, Meow." 

Gary turned around and saw Cat trying to open the refrigerator door, with his paw. 

"Hungry too huh? Okay just a minute," said Gary as he walked to the refrigerator and pulled out some milk. 

"Here you go," said Gary.   Cat started to lap at the milk that was in the bowl, only looking up long enough to make sure that Gary was searching the paper, but to  Cat's surprise the paper was still laying on the couch and Gary was digging through the fridge for something to eat. 

'This won't do. Doesn't he know that a small 2-year-old child is about to drown in just 45 minutes from now? No, this just won't do,' thought Cat to himself.  'I must get Gary to read this article.'   "Meow!" 

"Look, can't I even eat first?" asked Gary.   'No, there is no time for that, a little girl's life depends on you.'

" Meoooooooooooowwwwww!!!!!!!!!" 

"All right, geez, I looked once already. There's nothing in there right now," said Gary.   "Meow!" 

"Okay, Okay, I'll look again, don't have a fit," said Gary. 

Gary picked up the paper and started to scan through it once more. 

"Look I don't see what you want me to see," said Gary.   Cat just looked at Gary and then gently put his paw on the article  about the little girl. 

"Oh boy, I didn't see that the first time I looked," said Gary .

Gary began to read the article. 

'Jessica Lester, 2-year-old daughter of June and Jeff Lester of 20010 Deerborn Ave, drowned yesterday at the family home. It appears that she had fallen into the man made fish pond, that her father had just purchased days before. The accident happened around 7:10 am.' 

"Oh God, how much time do I have?" Gary wondered as he glanced at his watch. 

"Oh boy, just 22 mintues. I better hurry."

Gary quickly put on his jeans and shoes and  grabbed his jacket before flying out the door, down the stairs and through the office to the bar. 

"Good morning Gary," said Marissa, on hearing Gary's hurried foot steps coming though the door. "Is there something in the paper? It sounds  like you are in a rush or something."   "Good morning Marissa. Don't have time to stop, got to save a small child from drowning," said Gary rushing out the front door. 

"Okay," said Marissa. "I hope that everything works out," she called after Gary as he ran out the door. 

Gary pulled up to 20010 Deerborn with just moments to spare. Noticing a man painting the front porch, Gary jumped out of his Jeep and ran straight up to the man. 

"Hey, are you Jeff Lester?" asked Gary.   "Yes. What do you want?" asked Jeff.

"Your daughter is about to fall into that fish pond that was just put  in your yard," said Gary. 

"How do you know that's going to happen?" said Jeff. 

"I just know," said Gary, and at that he ran past Jeff and headed for the back yard. 

"Hey! Who do you think you are? Come back here!" said Jeff chasing  after Gary. 

When Jeff finally caught up he saw Gary pulling his 2-year-old daughter from the pond. 

"Oh my God, Jessica," said Jeff as he took his terrified daughter from Gary's arms. 

"Daddyyyyyyyyyy!" cried Jessica clinging to her father's shirt and sobbing her heart out. 

"It's okay sweetie, Daddy's got you. Don't cry, Daddy's here. Shhhh, it's all right Jessica, it's all right,"  Jeff soothed as his daughter sobbed in his arms. 

"Oh man, how did you know?" asked Jeff, looking  at Gary in surprise.   "I just did," answered Gary, shrugging his shoulders. 

"Well it doesn't matter how you knew, you saved Jessica's life and I just can't thank you enough. You see my wife June is in the hospital recovering from a very serious car accident and the one thing she doesn't need is to hear that something terrible happened to Jessica. Thanks again," said Jeff holding out his hand for Gary to take. 

"You're welcome, I'm just glad I arrived in time," said Gary, accepting Jeff's hand in friendship. 

"Well, I guess I better get this little one into the house so I can get her into some dry clothes.  Hey if there anything I can do for you just let me know," said Jeff. 

"Yes there is something you can do," answered Gary.   "What's that?" asked Jeff.   "Build a fence around this pond, so accidents like this doesn't happen again," said Gary.   "Will do and once more thanks a million," said Jeff as he and Jessica started towards the back door of the house, but not before Jessica blew Gary a kiss good bye. 

"Bye Jessica," said Gary as he smiled at the little girl. 

Gary returned to his Jeep and searched once more though the paper to  see if there was anything else that needed his attention. Satisfied that there wasn't, he started the engine and drove back to McGinty's. 

---------------------------------------------- 

Brrrrrriiiiiiiiiiiinnngggg!!!!!!!! 

"Hello McGinty's, Marissa speaking. How may I help you?" said Marissa.   "Hi Marissa, this is Jillian, I'm calling from my office. Is Gary there?" asked Jillian. 

"No Jillian, he had to leave on one of his saves, but he should be back soon," Marissa answered.   "Okay, just tell him that I called Diamond's Jewelry this morning and they have our rings ready. I thought that he could picked them up to save us some time. So could you please ask him to do that and one more thing, remind him to meet me at my office around 3:30," said Jillian. 

"No problem, will do." said Marissa. 

"Thanks Marissa, talk to you later, bye bye," said Jillian.   "Bye Jillian, take care," said Marissa. 

"Was that Jillian?" asked Gary as he entered the bar. 

"Yes it was and she told me that Diamond's has your rings ready and she wants you to pick them up this afternoon and then meet her at her  office at 3:30," said Marissa. 

"Okay thanks. I guess I'll go up and shower before I pick up the  rings," said Gary starting towards the office that led to his loft. 

"Hey Gary, how did the save go?" asked Marissa. 

"Huh?" 

"How did the save go?" repeated Marissa.   "Oh it went fine. I arrived in time and the  child is safe. I even received something that I don't get very often," said Gary. 

"And what's that," asked Marissa 

"A thank you," replied Gary. 

"Oh," said Marissa, smiling at Gary. "I bet it made you feel good. Didn't it?" asked Marissa. 

"Yeah, it did. It was just one of those times, that I'm glad that they picked me for the paper," said Gary.   "Yeah, I understand want you mean. Do you ever think you'll find out  who they are?" asked Marissa. 

"I dunno, maybe someday," said Gary and then turned to walk once more  up to his loft. 

"Yeah, maybe someday," repeated Marissa to herself and went back to her paperwork.   Gary was relaxing on the couch after taking a long, hot shower and Cat had made himself comfortable on his lap. Checking the time on his  watch, he soon realized that he had to be going so that he could pick up his and Jillian's wedding bands.   "Hm, maybe I should called them to make sure they remembered to engrave them."

Gary reached for the phone and made the called to Diamonds, a few minutes later he was satisfied that they had the rings ready and that they were waiting for him to pick them up. Gary looked down at Cat, who was still sleeping on his lap. 

"Hey buddy, I know that you are quite comfortable there, but you have  to get down. I have to leave now," said Gary as he gently picked up Cat  and put him on the floor. 

Gary said good bye to Cat and left to run his errands. A half hour  later he walked into Diamond's Jewelry store.  Walking up to the jewery display table, he noticed the same clerk that waited on him and Jillian weeks before. 

"Excuse me," said Gary. 

"Oh Mr. Hobson, have you come for your bands?" asked the clerk. 

"Yes I have," answered Gary. 

"Okay, wait right here and I will have them for you in just one  moment," said the clerk before she turned and walked towards the back room. 

Moments later she was back and had the ring boxes in her hand.

"Here you go Mr. Hobson, would you like to take a look at them?" asked the clerk. 

"Yes, I would," replied Gary.   "Okay, here you go. I hope that everything is to your liking," said the clerk. 

Gary looked at the rings. The jeweler did everything that he had asked and he was quite pleased with the work. 

"Yes, this is just fine. I think you did a great job," said Gary, reaching for his wallet. 

"Will you take a check?" asked Gary. 

"Yes, I just need to see an I.D.," answered the clerk.

 "Okay," replied Gary and wrote out the check for the amount of the  rings and handed her his license.

"Here you go," said Gary. 

"Thank you and here are your wedding bands. I hope you and your bride  to be,  have many happy years together," said the clerk.   "Thank you, " said Gary as he collected his things and walked out of  the store, returned to his jeep and drove off towards Jillian's office.

~*~*~

"Well hello Gary," said Regina, as Gary stepped into the office. "Jillian just finished with her last patient. Why don't you sit down  and she'll be with you in just a few minutes?" 

"Uh thanks Regina, I'll just sit over here," said Gary motioning to the closest chair before walking over and sitting down. 

"I guess that you and Jillian are really getting excited about your big day. Huh?" asked Regina. 

"Yeah, I'll say. It's only five days away now and boy there's still so much left to do," said Gary. 

"Today Jillian and I have to talk to Rev. Jerry Hull about using his church and we have to purchase the license and the flowers and I don't know what else. It's just so overwhelming, I  hope that we get everything done in time."   "Oh honey, don't worry so much, I know with all my heart that we will make it and we will have the most beautiful wedding that any one has ever seen," said Jillian, as she walked into the waiting room. 

Gary turned at the sound of Jillian's voice. She was dressed in a navy blue pantsuit with matching purse and shoes. Gary thought that she was the loveliest thing that he ever laid his eyes on. Oh how he loved this girl. 

"Wow! You are just gorgeous,"  Gary said emphatically.   "Well thank you handsome. Are you ready to go and finish up what we  need to do, before the big day?" asked Jillian.   "Yes, ready and willing. By the way I just picked up the rings and the jeweler did a magnificent job on them," said Gary. 

"Oh, can I see them?" asked Jillian.   "Well I'd rather wait until our wedding day," answered Gary.   "But Gary, I already know what they look like," said Jillian. 

"I know, but I still want to wait until then, I think it would mean a whole lot more that way. Don't you think so too?" asked Gary. 

"Yes, I do. Okay no rings until the wedding," said Jillian stretching  up on her toes and kissing Gary lightly on the lips. "Hey handsome, I  think we better get going now. The court house closes in an hour and we have to pick up our license," said Jillian.   "Okay then. Let's go," said Gary. 

Jillian and Gary were soon at the court house and going over all the details and paperwork that needed to be done to purchase their marriage license. Within the half hour everything was completed and they both walked arm and arm out of the court house, towards Gary's Jeep Wrangler with their marriage license. 

As soon as they reached the Jeep, Gary opened the passenger side for Jillian. Jillian had the license in her hand and was looking at it as she got into the Jeep. She was submerged in so much happiness, that her body trembled all over and her heart  beat like it was going to pound out of her chest. Turning to Gary, she enthusiastically shared her happiness with him. 

"Oh Gary, look at what we have here. Isn't this the most beautiful  piece of paper you've ever seen?" asked Jillian. "This is our marriage license. Oh God I can't wait to spend the rest of my life with you." 

"Jillian, I can't wait to be with you either. I love you so much," said Gary before, his lips descended on hers in a kiss that expressed his love for her.

Jillian loved the taste of Gary's tongue on her lips, his kisses made her feel warm and safe and she never wanted this feeling to stop. Gary too loved Jillian's hot but sweet kisses and the warmth of her body. 

"Oh God Jillian. I just hope the next five days go by fast," said Gary.   "Me too Gary, me too," Jillian sighed. 

"Hey handsome, we better be getting to Betsy's Flower Shop," said Jillian. 

"Okay, Betsy's Flower Shop is the next stop," said Gary as he started  up his Jeep and drove off in the direction of the flower shop. 

Betsy's Flower Shop was located at 934 Wabash. It was a two story brick building, with assorted flower arrangements of different colors posted in the front of the building. Gary pulled up in the front and he and Jillian stepped out of the jeep. 

"Well this is it," said Jillian as she took Gary's arm. "Are you ready to go in, honey?" 

"Yeah, let's go," said Gary and they both walked into the building arm in arm. As soon as they were in, Jillian was amazed by all the  beautiful flower arrangements that were all through the store. She especially loved the roses. She was just in awe of their beauty and wanted very much for this particular flower to be part of her bouquet. 

"Hello, my name is Kevin. May I help you?" asked a young sales clerk. 

Jillian and Gary turned to look at a young man. He was around 22, with light brown hair and hazel eyes. 

"Hi Kevin, my name is Jillian and this is Gary my fiance` and our wedding day is this Monday and------"   "And you are looking for something to make up your wedding bouquet?" asked Kevin. 

"Yes, I really do love roses. Could you come up with something using those flowers?"

"Yes and I have just the thing. I really think you will find this quite elegant. Please follow me, what you want is back here in this room," said Kevin. 

Jillian and Gary followed Kevin back to the room.  On entering, Jillian couldn't believe all the beautiful roses that were displayed all around the room. 

"Oh Gary, aren't they just beautiful?" asked Jillian.   "Yes Jillian, they are nice. Do you see anything you like?" asked Gary. 

Jillian searched around the room and that's when she saw it, the most beautiful bouquet she had ever laid her eyes on. 

"This is it. This is the one I want," exclaimed Jillian, as she walked over and stood by her choice. 

"That's a very good choice. Let me tell you a little bit about this  one. This particular bouquet has three types of roses. First there's the Black Jade Rose, these are the ones that have a violet red like color, which is highlighted in black and there are these dark pink ones called St. Mary Roses and the little red roses that surround the other two are called Tea Roses. To top it all off they are decorated with white  Baby's Breath and a beautiful white silk ribbon," Kevin explained.   Jillian and Gary hung on to every word that Kevin had said about this particular bouquet.  Jillian's heart just leapt out of her chest. She knew that this was the bouquet that she wanted. 

"Gary, this is it. This is the one I want," said Jillian. 

"Okay, beautiful, then this is the one that we will get," said Gary. 

"Do you want the real flowers or a silk version like this one?" Kevin asked.

"Oh, I want the real ones." Jillian answered.

"Okay, now that that is settled, I guess you want to know the price," said Kevin. 

"Yes we do," answered Gary. 

"The price for this bouquet is $90.00 dollars," said Kevin.

"Do you  need bouquets for your bridesmaids and boutenirs for the groomsmen?"

"Yes we need those too," Jillian replied.

After Kevin had showed them different samples and Gary and Jillian had decided on what they wanted. Gary paid Kevin for the flowers.

"There you go, here's your change and I hope you and your bride will have a very happy life together," said Kevin.   "Thank you," said Jillian and Gary together and then they both walked out the same way they came in, hand in hand. 

---------------------------------------------- 

Twenty minutes after leaving the flower shop they arrived at the United Methodist Church on Lake Shore Drive. 

They both left Gary's Jeep  and started up the many steps that led into the church. On entering they saw a very beautiful sanctuary, with pews made out of mahogany. The room  was highlighted by a grand altar. 

Way back behind the altar was a room that was for the Rev. This was where he went to prepare for his service. 

Rev. Jerry Hull stepped out of this room and noticed Jillian and Gary standing at the front of the church. 

"Gary, it's so wonderful to see you again," said Jerry as he offered Gary his hand. "And this must be Jillian. I'm so pleased to meet you. I know that you and Gary will be happy together. Why don't we step back into my office and we can make the arrangements for your wedding. "

All three walked back to Rev. Jerry's office and began to arrange for Jillian and Gary's big day. 

"Okay, what day and time have you decided?" asked Rev Jerry. 

"I hope this isn't short notice, but we want to get married this coming Monday," answered Jillian. 

"No, it's all right. There's no problem. What time would you like me to perform it?"   "I don't know, what do you think Jillian?" asked Gary.   "How about 4 pm? Is that okay?" asked Jillian. 

"Four is fine with me. Would you like to have a rehearsal on Saturday? Let's say around  3 pm?" asked Rev Jerry.   "Yes, that will be fine," answered Gary. 

"Okay, then I'll see you on Saturday," said Rev Jerry.

 "Thank you Reverend for taking us on such short notice," said Jillian. 

"Don't you worry about it," he insisted.

"Okay, Rev. Jerry. We'll see you on Saturday," said Jillian. 

"Okay, bye for now," said Rev. Jerry.   "Bye," said Jillian and Gary together as they left the church and made their way back to the  Jeep to head back to McGinty's.