~Chapter One

Ally James drove down the quiet street looking for the house where she was to have a job interview in fifteen minutes. She had moved to Los Angeles just two weeks ago having lived in Sacramento her entire thirty-eight years. Shortly after graduating from college, she had married Roger James, a nice young businessman she met while working at a small diner. He came in for lunch every day and they got to know each other. He even got her a job at the company he worked for.

They had dated a few months and then gotten married, happy for five of the ten years it lasted. Roger and Ally divorced when she could no longer put up with his wandering eyes. They had no children, not because Ally didnt want them but because Roger kept saying maybe next year.

She continued working until the company went bankrupt six months ago. That was when she took a good look at her life and decided she needed a change. She had written in her spare time for years and she had sent a manuscript to a publisher. To her surprise, it had been accepted and published. Now Ally was working on her next book. They were just small romance novels, but she enjoyed writing them.

That was why she was in Los Angeles, living in a hotel the past two weeks and looking for a job. The pay for the books was nice, but it really didnt go far. An ad in the paper had caught her eye a few days ago-Live-in housekeeper for single gentleman, cooking and light housecleaning. Private living quarters provided. Ally knew how to cook and it was a place to stay. She had sent a resume and a young girl had called and asked her to come for an interview.

There it is, she said as she pulled her car into the driveway of the tidy, single-story house. She parked behind a large black SUV, checked herself in the rearview mirror and opened the door. As she walked up the sidewalk, she noticed the beautiful flowers and plants along the front of the house.

Someone has worked very hard on this lawn, she thought to herself, then pushed the button to ring the doorbell.

~~~~~~~~~~

Michael Nesmith sat at his desk looking over the resume sent to him from someone interested in the housekeeping job. He had an interview in fifteen minutes and wanted to be prepared, even though his heart wasnt in it. His only child, his daughter Bridget, had left two days ago for her second year of medical school and their housekeeper of fifteen years just retired and moved to San Diego to be near her son and his family. Michael didnt think he needed to replace her, but Bridget had insisted.

Dad, I dont want to have to come over and clean every weekend and I want you to eat healthy. If you fix your own meals it will be sandwiches all the time. You and I both know that is not healthy. I want you to be around for a long time, she had said to him.

She was always concerned about his health. Ever since her mother had died of cancer when Bridget was ten, she had been obsessed with making sure he took care of himself.

Michael looked at his watch and noticed it was almost time for his interview. He thought a cup of coffee would be nice so he got up from his desk and walked the short distance to the kitchen. As he was pouring his coffee, the doorbell rang. Right on time, he thought. Thats a point in her favor. He sat the cup down on the counter and went into the entryway.

When he opened the door, he saw a very attractive woman standing there. She was about as tall as he was with shoulder length strawberry blonde hair and the most beautiful green eyes he had ever seen.

Mr. Nesmith? she asked.

Yes, but please call me Mike. You must be Ms. James, he answered.

Yes, but, please call me Ally, she replied, still standing outside the door, looking at the man standing in front of her. He was very attractive with gray hair, a gray beard and the most expressive, dark eyes she had ever seen.

Come in, Mike said, stepping aside so she could enter. Lets go to my office. He led her through the kitchen. Can I get you something to drink?

No, thank you. Im fine, she smiled.

Mike picked up the coffee he had poured earlier and motioned her down the hallway.

The first door on the right.

Ally went through the office door and sat down in the chair in front of the desk, crossing her long legs.

Mike stepped around his desk and sat in his chair, taking a sip of coffee. Sitting the cup down, he noticed just how short Allys skirt was and how long her legs were. Shaking his head to clear those thoughts, he looked at her resume.

I see here that you just moved from Sacramento. How do you like it so far?

Well, so far I like it just fine. She smiled as she talked.

Man, shes pretty when she smiles, Mike thought. He surprised himself with his thoughts and blushed slightly, hoping his beard hid enough of his face so as not to be noticed. He looked back down at the paper in his hand, trying to find something else to say.

Are you married or have any children? Why did he ask that? he thought. He was going to have to get control of his thoughts or he was going to end up a blabbering idiot.

No, Im divorced and we had no children. Its just me, Ally answered, smiling.

Okay, the job is cleaning and keeping house and cooking meals for me and sometimes my daughter. Shes away at medical school and she occasionally comes home when her schedule permits.

Medical school. You must be very proud. How old is she? Ally asked.

Yes, Im very proud of her. Shes twenty-three. Its been just the two of us since her mother died thirteen years ago. Our housekeeper of the past fifteen years retired last month and moved to San Diego. Bridget, my daughter, insisted I hire another housekeeper. She doesnt trust me to eat right on my own, he said, laughing.

Ally laughed, too. She thought he was very attractive when he laughed and couldnt help but think he didnt do it very often.

Would you like a tour of the house so youll know what youre getting yourself into-if you take the job?

Sounds good to me, she answered.

They both stood from their chairs and Mike showed her his house. They came back to the same hallway off the kitchen, but walked past the office to a door on the left.

And this would be your room, Mike said as he opened the door. Ally was surprised at how big the room was. There was a fireplace at one end with a couch and chair in front of it. A small dinette with two chairs sat in a corner and a beautiful four poster bed was draped with a pale yellow bedspread.

She walked to the bathroom and was also surprised by it. The room was large and held a big tub and a shower stall. A long vanity with a well-lit mirror above it was opposite the tub. She turned and stepped back in the bedroom.

This is a beautiful room, she commented.

There is also a walk in closet and, he walked across the room and parted the lace curtains revealing a French style patio door. A private patio.

He opened the door and the fragrance of roses met Allys nose as she stepped out onto the patio. There were roses of every color lining the patio.

The roses are beautiful, she said as she bent down to smell a white rose.

You can pick as many as you want. He smiled at her reaction. If you take the job.

She stood up straight and looked at Mike.

Id love to work for you. I think this will work out quite nicely, she said.

Okay, then. Youre hired, he said, extending his hand to her. She slipped her small, soft hand into his. You can move in as soon as you want to. He was going to enjoy having her there.

Chapter Two

Two weeks went by and Ally was settling into Mikes routine and everything was going smoothly. She had met Bridget and liked her right away. Bridget had liked Ally also and decided she wouldnt have to worry about her dad so much.

Hello, Mike said as he came into the kitchen, the smell of spaghetti filling the room.

Hi, there, Ally answered, draining the pasta. Dinner is almost ready.

It smells good, he said as he snatched a carrot from a plate on the counter.

Thank you. Hope it tastes good, she joked as she put the serving bowls on the table. Did you have a good day?

It was about the same as every day. We signed a new act today. Mike and the rest of The Monkees owned a record company called HQ Music. They had had moderate success in the sixties and seventies and decided in 1976 that they would create a record company. It was now one of the top companies in the country.

That sounds exciting, Ally said. In the last two weeks she had heard a lot about the music business and was very intrigued by it all.

Ally sat the plates in place and Mike got their drinks then sat down at the table. Mike had insisted that Ally eat with him, partly because he thought it was silly for her to eat by herself in her room while he ate by himself in the dining room and partly because he loved her company.

As they ate, they talked about Mikes job and he asked her about her novel. Ally was happy that it was so easy to talk to him and he seemed to be genuinely interested in what she had to say.

The phone rang as they finished the meal and Ally cleaned the table while Mike took the call in his office. He returned a few moments later.

How would you like to fix a meal for eight? he asked.

I guess I could handle that, Ally said closing the dishwasher.

That was David on the phone. Hes coming in from England on Friday and I invited him and his wife, Julie, here for dinner Saturday. Ill ask Micky and Peter, too.

That sounds fine. Id love to meet them since Ive heard so much about them. Ally smiled at the thought of meeting Mikes good friends.

Okay, Ill go call them now.

~~~~~~~~~~

Saturday came and everything was almost ready when Mike came into the kitchen.

Its six thirty. Everyone is supposed to be here at seven. Youd better get ready, Mike said, looking at Ally. She looked good enough to him even though she was wearing an old Garth Brooks t-shirt, old jeans and her hair was falling out of the ponytail it was in.

You want me to join you? I thought I would just stay in here and keep the food coming, Ally said as she turned to Mike. He was wearing black jeans, black cowboy boots and a denim shirt with a black leather, western cut sport jacket. He was such a handsome sight she almost dropped the pan of rolls she was holding. Mike stepped closer and reached out his hand to steady the pan.

Whoa, he said, grabbing the pan.

You look wonderful, she said, before she could stop herself. Oh, I should not have said that, she thought. Ally blushed slightly, then looked away.

Thank you, he replied, somewhat shocked at what she had just said to him. He fidgeted nervously with his jacket and repeated, Youd better get ready for dinner. Ill keep an eye on the rest of the food for you.

Ally nodded and walked down the hallway to her room, mentally kicking herself all the way.

Forty-five minutes later, she came out of her room dressed in a short, black skirt and a white, sleeveless sweater. She had chosen a pair of black strappy sandals and had put her hair up with a few strands down framing her face. She could hear voices in the next room and nervously slipped through the door.

As soon as she stepped into the room, everyone became quiet. Mike had his back to her, talking with another man and when the room became quiet, he turned to her. She could see the surprised look on his face for just a second and then he smiled and came to her.

You look wonderful, he whispered, reminding her of what she had said to him earlier.

Ally blushed and replied, Thank you.

Mike turned to his guests and said, Everyone, Id like you to meet my friend, who just happens to be the chef that prepared tonights meal, Ally James. Remember that name. One day it will be on the best sellers list. Shes also an author. He turned to her and smiled, then put his hand on her back and guided her to his friends.

Ally, meet David and Julie Jones.

Hello, Ally, David said, shaking her hand.

Julie smiled and nodded to her.

This is Peter Tork and his friend Elizabeth Hamilton, Mike said as they stepped in front of Peter and Elizabeth.

Hello, its nice to meet you, Peter said as he took her hand.

Yes, its nice to meet you, Elizabeth smiled.

And this is Micky and Susan Dolenz,

Hi, Ally, Susan said.

Micky shook her hand and said, Hi. Hope your dinner looks as good as you do.

Susan swatted his arm and Mike rolled his eyes. Ow, Micky said.

Well, I just hope its edible, Ally said, winking at Micky. They both giggled. Its nice to meet you all.

They had a wonderful meal and Ally got many compliments on her cooking. She enjoyed Mikes friends and really seemed to click with Susan. Ally felt like one of the group, not just a housekeeper and she was grateful to Mike for including her in the nights events.

It was late when the guests finally left and Ally was in the kitchen cleaning up when Mike came into the room.

Did you have a good time tonight? he asked.

Yes, I did. Thank you for including me, Ally answered.

Why shouldnt I? You are one of my friends and thats who this dinner was for, he replied, leaning against the counter next to the sink.

Ally didnt know what to say. He thinks of me as his friend, not just his employee, she thought. He is so good to me. She could easily fall for him and if she were totally honest with herself she would have to admit she was falling for him. She wiped down the counter and sat the sponge in the sink.

Its late. I think Ill go to bed now, Ally said quietly and picked up her sandals she had kicked off earlier. She turned to go to her room and then stopped.

Turning back to Mike, she said, Mike, Im glad you think of me as your friend. I think of you as a friend, too. Goodnight. Ill see you in the morning. She then turned and went to her room.

Goodnight, Ally, he replied, watching her go. He had been thinking the last few days that it would be nice to think of her as something more than a friend. No, he couldnt do that. As much as he would like it, it just wouldnt work. The little voice in the back of his head just said, maybe someday.

Chapter Three

As the weeks went by, Mike and Allys friendship became closer and their feelings were growing into something deeper. They spent a lot of time together, usually eating dinner and then watching TV or just talking for a couple of hours each evening.

Ally was getting a lot of writing done, the story just pouring out of her. Things seemed to be going well for Mikes business also and he was able to write some songs, something he hadnt done in a long time.

One night when Ally was almost done preparing dinner, the phone rang.

Nesmith residence, Ally cheerily into the phone.

Hi, Ally. Its Mike.

Hi, Ally said, smiling.

Im not going to be home till late. I just wanted to let you know so you wouldnt be worried. Ill grab something to eat here, he said.

Okay. Ally was always disappointed when he had to work late. Get something good for you to eat. No junk, she teased.

Yes, mother, Mike chuckled. Ill see you later. Bye.

Bye, Mike, Ally said and hung up the phone. She ate her dinner and then got cozy on the couch in the family room to watch a movie.

Suddenly, Ally jumped at a noise and realized she had fallen asleep. She sat up on the couch trying to shake the sleepiness out of her head. She heard the noise again. Maybe Mikes home, she thought as she got up, turned off the TV and started out of the room. She heard another noise, felt a sharp pain in the back of her head and everything went dark.

Mike looked at the clock in his truck as he pulled into his driveway. One a.m. He didnt realize he had been working that long. He noticed the house was dark and was glad that Ally had not waited up for him. He got out of the truck and, walking to the door, thought the house was too dark. She would have left a light on for me, he thought. Somethings not right.

When he reached for the door, he found it unlatched. Carefully, he pushed it open and flipped the light on. He couldnt believe his eyes when he looked around the room. His house was ransacked. In the living room, things had been knocked off the shelves and the more expensive knick-knacks were missing. He went into the dining room and saw that the drawers of the china cabinet were on the floor and the silver was gone.

Ally, he thought. Where is she? Mike started down the hallway to her room. When he got to the door, he started to knock then decided to just go in. He turned the light on and saw that nothing had been disturbed, not even her bed. He checked the bathroom, closet and even the patio.

Ally, he said, hoping to hear her reply from somewhere, anywhere.

Convinced she was not there, he turned the light off and closed the door. He returned to the living room and went into the family room to see the damage there. When he turned on the light, he saw they had taken the VCR and other electronic equipment along with some of the tapes, CDs and DVDs. Others were scattered on the floor. He scanned the room and then saw Ally lying on the floor in front of the couch, face down.

Ally, oh no, Mike said rushing to her. He felt for her pulse and was reassured that she was breathing. He grabbed the phone and called 911 then waited beside her for help to arrive. He was afraid to move her for fear he would hurt her more than she was already.

Oh, Ally. Im so sorry. I shouldnt have stayed so late at work. If I had been here maybe this wouldnt have happened, he said as he gently ran his hand up and down her back and held her hand.

~~~~~~~~~~

Dad.

Mike looked up from the magazine he had been flipping through in the hospital waiting room.

Bridget. Hi sweetie, he said, smiling at her.

She looked at her tired looking father and asked, Hows Ally?

I havent heard anything yet, He answered returning the magazine to the table and leaning back in his chair.

Bridget sat down in the chair next to his and patted his leg.

Shell be fine, Dad. She was quiet for a moment and then said, Have you told her how you feel about her?

Mike was shocked by her question. What are you talking about? She knows shes one of my best friends.

Daddy, thats not what I mean. I can tell there is something more just by the way you talk about her and the way you look at her. Its okay, Dad. You are allowed to love someone other than Mom. Shes been gone for thirteen years. Its time to move on. You shouldnt be alone anymore. Bridget knew her father well and knew it would take some prodding to get him to admit his feelings. She would help all she could.

Mike sat listening to his daughter telling him to love another woman. Didnt she know that Melanie had been his everything, his soul mate, his best friend? He had met her in 1968, shortly before The Monkees had signed their recording contract. They had married two years later and Melanie had gone with them on the tours. When the guys quit touring, he and Melanie decided to start a family. Shortly after that decision, Melanie had become pregnant.

Nothing had gone right with the pregnancy. Bridget arrived early and Melanie almost didnt make it through the delivery. Then eight years later they discovered she had breast cancer. In eighteen months, she was gone and Mike was left with a ten-year-old daughter to raise by himself.

Now that ten year old daughter was all grown up, looking so much like her mother, telling him to move on.

Mr. Nesmith. Dr. Hays came into the room and Mike turned to him and stood.

Yes.

Mr. Nesmith, Ms. James is going to be fine. She has a concussion and a nasty bump on her head, but other than that, she is fine. I want her to stay overnight and she can go home tomorrow, or should I say later today, he said, looking at his watch.

Mike felt such relief at the doctors words.

Can I see her? he asked.

Sure, but only for a little while. Follow me, Dr. Hays said, then started down the hall.

Ill wait here, Bridget said as Mike turned to her.

Mike and Dr. Hays walked into Allys room and she looked up from the small TV she was watching. When she saw Mike, she smiled and turned the TV off. She could see the relief in his eyes.

Hello, Ms. James. How are you feeling? Dr. Hays asked as he looked over her chart.

Other than this headache, Im fine, Ally answered, not taking her eyes from Mike.

Everything looks fine here, the doctor said, closing the chart and returning it to its place. Ill leave you two alone now.

When Dr. Hays left the room, Mike went and sat in the chair beside Allys bed.

Im glad youre all right. I wish I had been home. Maybe this wouldnt have happened.

Mike, dont worry. It wasnt your fault, Ally assured him.

The doctor said you could go home later today. He smiled. The house is a mess. They took the silver and the electronics, even some of the knick-knacks. He looked nervously down at his hands. That can all be replaced, but you cant, he said, almost so quietly he couldnt be heard. He slowly raised his eyes to hers.

Ally was shocked at what she heard. She thought she heard him say she couldnt be replaced. Was it possible that he felt the same about her that she felt about him? She had been trying to keep her feelings hidden and just be friends. She liked her job and didnt want to jeopardize it. She raised her hand to her forehead without realizing what she was doing.

Does your head hurt bad? Mike jumped up from his chair. I should go and let you get some rest before I take you home. Ill see you in a few hours. With that he left her room and left her sitting there, puzzled.

How could he have said such a thing, he thought to himself as he walked down the hall. But it was true, there was no way he could ever replace her. She had become a very important part of his life in the short time he had known her. Maybe Bridget is right, he thought. No, he couldnt get any closer to her. He just couldnt.

Dad, Bridget said, walking up to meet him. Is everything okay?

Yeah, she can come home later today. Im going home to get some rest before I come back to get her, Mike said, putting his arm around his daughters shoulders. They walked to the elevator.

Good. I need to get back to my room. I have a class in a few hours, Bridget said as they stepped into the elevator. They rode in silence and when the doors opened, walked to the main entrance.

Take care of yourself, Dad. And remember, its okay. She looked into his eyes to make sure he got her message then kissed his cheek and started for the door.

Bye, babe, Mike said. Love you.

Love you, too, Dad. Bye, Bridget answered and then stepped into the night.

Chapter Four

Hello. Anybody home? Ally said, lugging her bags in the front door. She had spent the Thanksgiving holiday with her family in Sacramento. It had been good to see her parents and her brother and his family but the whole weekend she had been wishing she were here in Los Angeles. She missed Mike, plain and simple. It had taken a couple of days to admit it, but she finally gave in and admitted she missed him.

Hello, Mike? she said as she made her way through the kitchen. He must not be here, she thought. Ally took her luggage to her room so she could empty it. She opened the door and stopped short when she saw what awaited her. On the dinette table was a beautiful bouquet of red roses. Sitting her bags down beside the bed, she went to the roses, smelled their sweet fragrance and picked up the card. Slipping it out of the envelope, she read the simple message in Mikes handwriting-Missed you, Mike.

I missed you, too, she said, smiling, to the empty room. Ally smelled them once more and returned the card to its envelope.

She emptied her bags then decided a warm bubble bath sounded good after the long drive from Sacramento. While the tub filled with warm water, Ally brought the roses into the bathroom to enjoy them as she soaked. She sat the vase on the side of the huge whirlpool tub and got ready for her bath. As she soaked, she thought about how she felt about Mike. She had missed him so much while she was gone. They got along so well and she enjoyed spending time with him.

By the time she was done with her bath, she had come to the conclusion that he was not just a friend. How would she go about bringing up the subject? Should she bring it up at all? What if he rejected her? Surely he wouldnt. After all, he gave her a bouquet of roses. That must mean something. She bent over the roses, once again taking in their fragrance.

~~~~~~~~~~

Is this what you had in mind? the woman behind the jewelry counter asked Mike, showing him a beautiful gold chain with a diamond pendant dangling from it. It was simple, yet elegant.

Yes, thats what I want. Can you wrap it for me? Mike asked.

Yes, of course. Ill have it for you in just a moment, sir, she said and disappeared into the back of the store.

Mike stood at the counter looking at the jewelry but not really seeing it. Was this the right thing to do? he asked himself. He had missed Ally terribly while she was gone, even though Bridget had spent most of the holiday with him. There was still something missing and Bridget could tell. She encouraged him to do something about it. She assured him that Ally would not run the other direction. So here he was in a jewelry store buying a diamond necklace.

He looked at his watch. She was already home by now and had no doubt found the roses. Hope she liked them, he thought.

Here you are, sir, the sales lady said, handing Mike the gift-wrapped box.

Thank you, he said and took the box to his truck.

When he arrived home, he noticed Allys car in its usual place. He picked up the necklace and went into the quiet house. Mike assumed she was in her room. He placed the box on the kitchen counter and made his way down the hallway to Allys room. Taking a deep breath, he knocked on the door.

Ally, are you there?

Mike, yes, she called. Just a minute. She slipped on her t-shirt and red plaid flannel pants and hurried to the door. When she opened the door and saw him standing on the other side, her heart jumped at the sight of him. He stood there, smiling at her, looking just as handsome as he ever did, wearing black jeans and a white t-shirt with a blue denim shirt, unbuttoned and sleeves rolled up to his elbows.

Hello, he said. How was your trip? What a sight she was to him. There she stood, barefoot with damp hair from her bath and a nice white t-shirt. It was enough to make him want to forget about talking and do something else. He shook his thoughts back where they belonged.

It was nice. Come on in, she was saying. It was nice to see my family, especially my brothers kids. Theyve grown so much since the last time I saw them.

Mike sat down on the couch while Ally ran a comb through her hair and brought the roses out of the bathroom.

Thank you for the flowers, she said, sitting them on the table. I missed you, too.

Ally sat down beside him on the couch and smiled.

I need to talk to you, Ally, he said as he stood and walked to the French doors. He didnt think he would be able to tell her what was on his mind if he was so close to her.

Okay, she replied nervously, not knowing where this conversation was going.

When you were gone, I realized something. Even though Bridget was here, I was lonely. I missed you, your smiling face at dinner, sitting and talking to you in the evening. I missed everything about you. Ally. He turned to look at her, sitting on the couch. I want to be more than friends.

Allys hand went to her mouth and tears threatened to spill over her cheeks. She stood and went to him.

I thought I was going to have to bring this up. She smiled at him. I missed you, too, while I was gone. I thought about you the whole time I was there. All I wanted to do was come back here. I want the same thing. I want to be more than friends. I have for a long time. I just couldnt, or wouldnt admit it to myself for fear you wouldnt feel the same way.

You dont have to worry about that, he said as he caressed her cheek. She closed her eyes and leaned into his touch. She felt him lean closer to her and then he brushed his lips against hers in a gentle kiss. They kissed again more passionately, Mike putting his hands on her hips and pulling her to him. Ally wrapped her arms around his neck and held him tight as if she were to let go it would all disappear.

He pulled away slightly and said, I have something for you.

Taking her hand, he led her down the hallway to the kitchen where he had left the necklace. He picked up the gift-wrapped box and handed it to Ally.

Whats this? Ally asked as she took it from him.

Just open it.

With trembling hands, Ally carefully took the paper off and opened the velvet box. When she saw the beautiful diamond pendant, she gasped.

Michael, you shouldnt have done this, she said as tears filled her eyes. She took the necklace from the box with shaky hands.

Mike took it from her and clasped it around her neck. I wanted to. He kissed the back of her neck and pulled her back against him, wrapping his arms around her stomach. Ally leaned into him and put her hands on his. She was so happy. She had what she had wanted for a long time.

Im glad you feel the same way. I was afraid that maybe you wouldnt, Mike said. I havent felt like this since Melanie died.

Ally turned to look at him and took his hand in hers.

Ill show you how I feel about you, she said and led him down the hall to her room.

~~~~~~~~~~

As the morning light came through the bedroom window, Ally stirred in bed. Its so nice and warm in bed, she thought. Her fingers absently brushed the necklace she still wore and her mind began to wake up. She remembered the roses, her conversation with Mike, the diamond necklace, that she observed, was the only thing she was wearing at the moment. Mike, she thought. Turning over, she saw him lying next to her, sleeping peacefully. No wonder its warm here, she thought, smiling. What a wonderful night it had been.

Her eyes caught a glance at the clock and her thoughts quickly changed. Eight oclock. She jumped up from the bed and headed to the bathroom. She was supposed to meet Susan at her house in an hour. Ever since Mike had introduced Micky and Susan to Ally, Susan had been a very good friend. They spent a lot of time together and today they had planned a flea market shopping trip. She quickly got the shower ready and hurriedly cleaned up.

The phone ringing stirred Mike and he grabbed the receiver.

Hello, he said sleepily.

There was silence for a moment and then a womans voice. Mike? I thought I dialed Allys number.

Susan? Mike asked, waking up completely. He looked around and realized he was not in his room, but in Allys.

Yeah. Im sorry I woke you up. Im positive I dialed her number, Susan said and then it dawned on her what was going on. She knew Mike and Ally were crazy about each other. I did dial the right number, didnt I?

Mike knew he couldnt lie to her. This was not exactly the way he wanted people to find out about this, if he wanted them to know at all.

Yes, you dialed Allys number. Did you need to talk to her?

No, just tell her Ill be ready whenever she gets here. Mike could hear the smile in her voice.

Okay, Ill tell her, he said, anxious to get her off the phone.

Oh, and Mike. Its about time you two got together. You make a great couple, she said.

Thanks, Susan.

Bye, now.

Bye. Mike hung up the phone and covered his face with his hands. Susan is going to tell Micky and Micky has the biggest mouth of anybody I know, he thought.

The bathroom door opened and Ally stepped out, drying her hair with a towel. When Mike saw her, he completely forgot about Mickys big mouth.

Good morning, she said a smile lighting her face. She came and sat down on the bed beside him. Did I hear you talking out here?

Yes, you did. Susan called and of course I answered before I knew what I was doing. By now Im sure Micky knows and that means everyone in a fifty-mile radius knows.

Well, you werent planning on keeping it a secret, were you? Ally asked.

No, but I wasnt planning on letting the news out quite like that, he chuckled. By the way, Susan said she would be ready whenever you are.

She leaned down and kissed him. I guess I dont have to hurry so much if shes going to be ready whenever, she said, smiling.

I guess not. Mike put his arms around her, noticing that the satin robe she was wearing was the only thing she was wearing. Oooo, nice, he said, running his hands up and down her body.

She laughed and hugged him. I love you.

He hugged her back, but didnt say anything.

Chapter Five

Ally and Susan arrived at a little cafe they had lunch at often and ordered lunch when Susan finally asked about the night before.

So, Ally. Tell me what went on at your place last night, she asked, smiling.

Ally told Susan all about the roses that were waiting for her, the conversation they had, the diamond necklace and making love for the first time.

You know, Susan. I was married for ten years and never had a connection with Roger like the one I have with Mike. Im in love with him.

Thats wonderful! Susan exclaimed. Hes a great guy and you both deserve to be happy.

~~~~~~~~~~

Mike arrived a little late to work and Micky met him at the door.

I hear you had a good night last night, he said, grinning like the cat that ate the canary.

Yes, I did have a good night, as if it is any of your business. Mike grabbed Mickys arm and shoved him into his office. How many people have you blabbed to?

What? I didnt tell anyone. I know I cant keep a secret but this is something important. I wouldnt tell anyone without your permission, Micky explained, slightly hurt that Mike would think he would tell something that private.

Mike examined Mickys face for any signs that he was not telling the truth.

Okay. Mike sat down in the chair at the desk and watched Micky sit across from him.

Yesterday when Ally got back from her parents, I had a bouquet of roses waiting for her in her room. When I got home, I told her I needed to talk to her and I told her I wanted to be more than just friends. I even gave her a diamond necklace.

And I think I know what happened next, Micky said with a wink.

Mike rolled his eyes. Why did he ever bother to try and have a serious conversation with him?

Mike, thats great. Its about time the two of you got together. You make a great couple.

What, do you and your wife get together and plan what youre going to say to me? Mike said remembering his conversation with Susan earlier that morning.

Micky laughed, shook his head and got up to leave the room. Stopping at the door, he said, Mike, you deserve to be happy. Its been a long time since you were.

Mike watched him walk out the door, agreeing with him silently.

~~~~~~~~~~

Months went by and Ally began to feel that her relationship with Mike should be going to the next level. She wanted a commitment, not necessarily getting married but more of a commitment than they had. It seemed to Ally that nothing had changed between them. They had revealed very deep feelings for one another. Well, at least she had. She had told him she loved him but he would never say the same to her.

Every thing else seemed to be the same also. She still did the cooking and cleaning and received a paycheck every week. She was still staying in the maids quarters, as she so affectionately called it. Mike did, every now and then, spend the night with her, in her room. She never spent the night in his room. She was beginning to feel like a live-in call girl, there when he needed her. She had tried numerous times to talk to Mike about it, but he always seemed to dodge the questions.

Ally had to go to New York on business with her book and she was determined to get this straightened out before she left.

Dinner was on the table when Mike got home from work.

Hi, Ally, he said, kissing her cheek as he came into the kitchen.

Hi, Mike, she answered. Dinner is ready when you are.

Okay, Ill put my things away and then well eat. He took his things to his office and when he returned Ally was seated at the table waiting for him. They made small talk while they ate, then Ally brought dessert to the table.

Mike, since Im leaving for New York for a week, I was hoping we could talk about something, Ally said, poking at the piece of cheesecake on her plate.

He looked up at her. I should have known she couldnt leave without bringing this up, he thought.

I want to talk about us, Mike. I want to know where this relationship is going.

Weve been over this before, Ally, he replied.

Yes, I know but Ive never gotten any answers from you. I want to know what you want out of our being together. Ally looked at him, hoping he would open up to her this time.

I want just what we have. I like things the way they are.

Well, I dont. I want something more, Ally said, picking up her plate and taking it to the sink.

Mike sat in his seat, watching her. What exactly do you want?

I want a commitment from you. I want to know that what we have is something special.

Mike stood and took his plate to the sink. Isnt what we have special?

Ally thought for a moment. How should she go about letting him know how she really felt?

Yes, I think it is but it just seems to me that you dont. She could see the fire cross his eyes at that moment.

What makes you say that? he asked, trying to keep his temper in check.

Well, for one thing, nothing has changed since Thanksgiving. I still cook your meals and clean your house. And you pay me to do it. She paused for a moment and then said, Sometimes I feel like Im here for you when you need something.

The fire was really flashing in his eyes now. How could she say that? What are you saying?

Now Allys temper was coming to the surface, too. Im saying that I feel like some kind of call girl, only you get your meals and your house cleaned out of the deal.

Then maybe you should quit, Mike growled.

Quit? What was he saying? What had happened here? Maybe I should, she hissed back. She turned and started down the hall to her room with Mike following close behind.

What are you doing? he asked.

Im getting my bags. Im staying with Susan tonight. When I get back from New York Ill get the rest of my things. Ally picked up the bags she had packed earlier and started for the door.

So, you start this conversation and now youre just going to walk out on it? he said, standing in the door preventing her from leaving.

Michael, I cant have a civil conversation with you about this subject. She looked in his dark eyes, wishing she could see what it was that made him act this way. She loved him so much. She thought he felt the same for her but if he didnt say it, she couldnt be sure.

I dont know what is holding you back but if this relationship cant go any farther then Im going to have to get out of it. I cant keep going like this. I cant live in the same house with you, be this close to you and just be good friends.

Ally stepped around him and through the door. She started down the hall and stopped. Without turning back to him, she said quietly, I love you, Michael. And then quickly walked down the hall and out of the house.

Mike listened to her speech, each word like a razor sharp dagger being plunged deep into his heart. She stood right there in front of him and told him she was leaving if he didnt make a commitment. Why was it so hard to do that? He loved her, though he had never said it.

He watched her walk down the hall and stop. She told him she loved him, even though she was leaving. Then she was gone. Suddenly the house was very empty.

~~~~~~~~~~

Micky and Susan were snuggled on the couch watching a movie when the doorbell rang.

Ill get it, Micky said, untangling himself from Susans arms.

Ally, he said, surprised when he saw her on the other side of the door. He then noticed the tears in her red eyes. Whats wrong? He pulled her inside and shut the door.

Oh, Mike and I had an argument.

Micky put his arm around her and led her to the family room where Susan was.

Ally, whats wrong? Susan said when she saw them.

Micky and Ally sat down on the couch. Mike and I had an argument about our relationship. I told him I was leaving. When I get back from New York, Im moving out.

Micky and Susan exchanged concerned looks. They knew that was very bad news. Ever since Mike had met Ally, he had been a different person. He was more like he had been when Melanie was still alive.

Oh, honey, what happened? Susan asked, rubbing Allys back.

Ally told them about the argument and that she had told him she was leaving if he couldnt make a commitment. By the time she was done with her story, she was crying, again.

Micky and Susan offered words of encouragement and got her off to bed.

I hope Mike comes to his senses soon, Susan said, as she and Micky got into bed.

Me, too. Maybe Ill talk to him tomorrow and find out what is going on in that head of his, Micky replied.

~~~~~~~~~~

The next morning, Susan took Ally to the airport and Micky went to work. He tried to make himself look busy as he waited for Mike to arrive, but the things on his desk could only be straightened so many times. He decided to go to the reception area and see what was going on there. When he got there, the front door flew open and a very upset and irritated Mike charged in the building.

Good morning, sunshine, Micky teased.

Mike looked up from the hand he was holding close to his chest and glared at Micky.

Shut up. Theres nothing good about it. He poured himself a cup of coffee and took it to his office with Micky following closely. They both walked into Mikes office and Mike turned to Micky and growled, What do you want?

What happened to put you in such a lovely mood? Micky asked as he sat down in a chair.

You arent going to go away, are you? Mike grumbled.

No. So you might as well start talking.

Mike sat down in his chair, placing the coffee on the desk.

For starters, my alarm clock didnt go off this morning. Then I couldnt find the coffee. Shes rearranged everything in the kitchen and I cant find a thing, he mumbled as he wiped up some coffee that had dripped off the edge of his cup.

Then, I was finally on my way here and I got a flat tire. I got it changed and was letting the jack down when the handle came off and smashed my hand.

Micky was smiling, almost to the point of laughing.

Im glad my bad morning has brought so much joy to your life, he said sarcastically.

Why do you think all that happened? Micky asked.

Dont go there, warned Mike.

Micky got up from his chair. He would leave Mike to his thoughts. Maybe it would do him some good.

Ill see you later. Dont forget about the staff meeting at two.

Mike watched Micky leave the room and turned his chair to the window behind the desk.

How could he have let Ally leave like he had? What was keeping him from telling her those three little words? He did love her. He had never felt this way about a woman since Melanie died.

Melanie. His thoughts drifted back in time to her. They had met at a club the band was playing at one night. He had noticed her in the crowd, a tall, slim girl with black hair and dark eyes. He had talked to her after their set and they had been inseparable from that moment on. Two years later, he had asked her to marry him and she had gone with them on every day of every tour.

He had almost lost Melanie when Bridget was born and he had made sure that he enjoyed every day from then on. Of course, they argued about things now and then but they never let it come between them.

When she died, he felt as if he wanted to die, too. If he hadnt had Bridget, he surely would have tried to join Melanie. She was his best friend, his partner, and his soul mate. He was left with a huge hole in his heart.

And then Ally had walked into his life. He never thought he would find another woman to make him feel the things he was feeling. He loved her company, her smile, her laughter. Her presence in a room seemed to brighten it and when she wasnt there, everything was empty-the house, the room, his heart.

Mike turned his chair back to his desk. He loved her. He had to admit it to himself, he loved her. He loved Ally.

He glanced at his watch, almost noon. He hadnt realized he had been sitting there that long. He picked up the phone and buzzed his secretary.

Ann, call the airport and book me on the soonest fight you can to New York. He had to talk to Ally and tell her how he felt before any more time passed.

A few moments went by and Ann knocked on the open door. Mike, I got you on a flight leaving in two hours. Do you need me to make hotel arrangements?

No, Ill take care of that. With any luck, hed have a place to stay, forever. He grabbed his jacket from the back of his chair and headed for Mickys office.

Mick, he said when he got to the door. Youll have to take care of the staff meeting by yourself.

Micky looked up from his work. Why? Whats going on?

Im on my way to New York, Mike answered.

Really? Thats great! Micky smiled as Mike turned to leave. Good luck.

Mike stopped at the door and looked back at Micky.

Thanks, he said and gave him a rare smile.

Chapter Six

Ally stood at the mirror over the bathroom sink, looking at her reflection. She had cried the entire flight and had trouble controlling her emotions at dinner with her publisher. As she looked at herself, she could see the puffiness in her eyes. Is he really worth this? she asked herself. Yes, he is. But why does he have to be so stubborn? Ally knew he loved her. It showed in everything he did and said. He sent flowers, brought home little trinkets just because they reminded me of you and his kisses told her how he felt. Why couldnt he say it?

Ally turned off the light, went to the other room and sat in the chair in front of the TV. She sat, staring at the blank screen, thinking. She didnt want to leave him, but she would have to for her own peace of mind. She couldnt go on living like she was. She loved him very much, enough to let him go if she had to.

There was a knock at the door and, tying her robe around her, she went to answer it. Looking through the peephole, her heart leapt into her throat.

Hi, Mike said when she opened the door.

Hi. Come on in, Ally said, motioning him in the room. What are you doing here?

He stepped inside and watched her shut the door. He was a bit nervous, not knowing how she would react to seeing him.

I did some thinking after you left and decided I needed to talk to you as soon as possible.

Ally could barely breathe from fear of what he was about to say.

Lets sit down, Ally said as she made her way to a chair. Mike followed and sat in the chair across from her.

What is it you need to talk about? Ally asked.

You and me, he answered. I have been avoiding a commitment to you and I just realized why. I need to let you know.

Ally was afraid to hear it, but she had to listen.

Okay, she said quietly.

I did some thinking this morning while I sat at my desk feeling sorry for myself, he started. I finally figured out why I have been having trouble with commitment. It goes back a long time, to Melanie. She and I had something very special. I had never felt anything like that for anyone before she came along. She was everything to me. When she died, I wanted to die too. If I hadnt had Bridget, I think I might have done it.

I never thought I would ever feel those feelings for another woman and I didnt. He looked into her eyes. Until you came into my life. I started feeling those feelings again and to be honest with you, it scared me. I didnt want to replace or forget her. But I realized that I wouldnt be replacing or forgetting her. Her memory is tucked away in a special place in my heart.

Oh, Mike. I dont want you to forget her. She helped make you the man I met and fell in love with. Ally got up from her chair and went to stand in front of him. He took her hand and sat her down on his lap.

I love you, Mike. Ive never felt this way for anyone, Ally hugged him tight.

I love you, too, Ally. He held her, thinking about the question he desperately wanted to ask her. Marry me, he said, suddenly.

Surprised, Ally pulled away from him. Marry you! she exclaimed. This she had not expected. There was nothing she wanted more than to marry this man. She was very much in love with him, but she didnt know how he would feel about what she had to tell him.

Mike, I would love to marry you, but I really should tell you something first.

Is it going to change your answer? he asked.

No. It honestly would not change her mind one bit.

Then it can wait till morning.

Ally debated whether to tell him anyway but she couldnt. He was so happy right now. She was too and she really wanted to have this night with him.

Okay, she finally said and, standing, took his hand and led him to the bed. Lets go to bed.

~~~~~~~~~~

Mike woke the next morning alone in bed. He was glad things were better between the two of them. He smiled at the thought of Ally as his wife. He was so happy she had said yes.

He heard a sound from the bathroom as if Ally was sick. He went to the bathroom, slipping on his jeans as he went.

Ally, he said, lightly tapping on the door. Are you all right?

Mike pushed the door open to find Ally at the sink, splashing her face with water. When she looked up at him, he saw she was pale and looked as if she didnt feel good.

Ill be fine. My stomach is upset. She moved to stand in front of him, taking his hands in hers. We need to talk.

Ally led him to the bed where they sat down, side by side. Mike had a sick feeling about this whole scene. He knew that any conversation that started out that way could not be good.

Last night I said I had something to tell you and I need to tell you now. Ally was more nervous than she had ever been. She had no idea how he would react to what she had to say. Taking a deep breath to summon up all her courage, she continued, Michael, I have been getting sick like this for the last two weeks, every morning. She watched his face as he began to realize just what she was saying.

Youre pregnant? he whispered. Ally nodded. How? Weve been careful.

Remember New Years Eve? We werent so careful that night.

Mike closed his eyes as it hit him. He remembered. They had gone to Micky and Susans for dinner and drank some of Mickys special recipe egg nog then had gone home and celebrated the holiday with a little wine and a make out session. They were both a little, no make that a lot, tipsy and hadnt given a thought to protecting against getting pregnant.

Im almost sixty years old. I shouldnt be having babies. I have a grown daughter, for crying out loud. He felt like the world was crashing in around him. He couldnt believe this was happening. He stood and picked up his shirt.

What are you doing? Ally asked, fearing the worst.

Ive just got to get out of here for a while, thats all. Ill be back later, he said, as he put his boots on.

Mike, dont run away from this. Now Ally was a wreck. He was leaving. She had feared he would not take the news well.

He stopped at the door and turned back to her. Ill be back after a while, was all he said and then he was gone.

Ally stood and stared at the door, not knowing what to think. Another wave of nausea washed over her and she hurried to the bathroom.

~~~~~~~~~~

Mike walked for hours along the streets of New York City, thinking about what Ally had told him. He went through the gamut of emotions, from anger that they had let this happen to excitement at the thought of a new little person to show how much he and Ally loved each other. He was scared, afraid he was too old to go through this again twenty-four years from the last time. And what would Bridget think? He didnt want her to think badly of him for getting his girlfriend pregnant. Here he was almost sixty and his girlfriend was pregnant. How embarrassing. Just like some hormone-crazed teenager.

By the time he found himself back at Allys hotel room door, it was after six oclock in the evening. He knocked on the door and waited for her to answer, annoyed with himself that he hadnt gotten his own key.

When she opened the door, he could see that she had been crying and it broke his heart to think that he was the cause of it. He had left her hours ago without so much as a goodbye.

Mike, I was worried about you, she said as he came in the door.

Im sorry. I shouldnt have left like that. The news just kind of hit me like a freight train and I had to get out and do some thinking. He wanted to touch her, to kiss her sweet lips and show her how sorry he was but he stood still right where he was.

I understand, Ally said, quietly. I did a lot of thinking today, too. I couldnt hardly keep my mind on my work. She sat down in a chair and watched him sit in the other chair. I know this was a shock to you. It was to me too.

Thats no excuse for me running out on you this morning. Mike reached to her and touched her hand. I think I like the idea of a new baby. He smiled and squeezed her hand.

Ally looked up at him. Im so glad. I dont think I could send it back, she laughed.

He laughed, too, and pulled her to his lap. No, I guess you couldnt. He kissed her lips and hugged her tight. So, have any names picked out?

Ally just laughed and rolled her eyes at him.

~~~~~~~~~~

Mike and Ally kept their news to themselves and enjoyed their time together in New York. Mike called Micky to have him meet them at the airport and told him that he and Ally needed to talk to him and Susan.

Micky had been about to burst from wanting to know what Mike and Ally had to tell him and when they finally got to Mikes house, unloaded the bags and settled in the house, he couldnt stand it anymore.

Alright you two, what is this news? Spill it.

All right, all right, Mike chuckled as he sat down beside Ally on the couch. Were getting married.

Well, its about time. When? Micky asked.

As soon as possible. We were going to get married in New York but decided we wanted to share it with you. Mike looked at Micky and gave him an over exaggerated grin.

Oh, thank you, Mikey, Micky returned.

Ally and Susan laughed at the two of them and then Ally said, We want the two of you to stand up with us.

Just tell us when, Susan said.

Thats not all the news we have.

Theres more? Micky asked, looking at Mike and then Ally.

Yeah, Bridgets finally going to get that little brother or sister she always used to ask for, Mike answered.

It took a while for that bit of information to settle as Micky and Susan sat there without a sound.

Mike looked at Ally and said, Now theres something you dont see everyday.

Finally, Susan looked at Ally. You mean you are going to have a baby?

Yes, Ally laughed.

Thats great, Micky exclaimed. Then he looked at Mike. Isnt it?

Yeah, its great, Mike assured Micky.

Later, when Ally and Susan had gone to the kitchen to find something to eat, Micky and Mike began to talk.

So Mike, tell me. How do you really feel about this turn of events? Micky asked.

Well, at first I didnt know what to think. I went through every emotion, I was angry, scared. But I love Ally, very much. Together we can handle anything and I think this is going to be great. It wont be easy, but well manage.

Ally stuck her head in the room. Foods ready, guys.

Micky draped his arm around Mikes shoulders. Lets go eat, Dad.

Mike chuckled and put his arm around Mickys shoulders, making their way into the dining room.