~Chapter Three

Bridget made a lunch date with Mike the next day, deciding to talk to him as soon as possible. They went to a small diner not far from the office and through the entire meal Bridget couldnt figure out how to bring up the subject of Ally. Finally, when they were back at the office, she tried.

"Dad, are things okay with you and Ally?"

Mike sat at his desk and looked at his daughter. "Why do you ask?"

She took note that he avoided her question. "I was just wondering. I get the impression that things are not quite the way they should be."

Bridget sat in the chair across the desk and watched Mike as she talked. He seemed very uncomfortable and that spoke volumes to her.

"Everything is fine and I think you should mind your own business," Mike said a bit harshly. Her words had given him a shock. He knew things were not right but he didnt think anyone else could tell.

"I just thought I should say something. I love you and Ally and I dont want to see your relationship hurt." She got up and went around his desk, giving him a kiss on the cheek. Hopefully she had given him something to think about without coming out and telling him what she had seen and heard. Even though everything she saw between Micky and Ally was completely innocent, she knew it could be more if the situation was right.

Bridget started for the door and stopped just before she went out. "Ill see you later, Dad."

Mike smiled a weak smile and waved slightly, still in shock from what she had said.

"Yeah, see you later," he said as she left his office.

~~~~~~~~~~

Micky walked happily along the sidewalk to his front door holding two movies he had painstakingly chosen for the night. He and Susan were finally going to spend a long awaited, well deserved evening at home together. It had been a very long time since they had done anything like that and he was looking forward to it. He opened the door and stepped inside.

"Susan," he called, noticing how eerily quiet it was. He walked through the living room into the kitchen and through the office back to the entryway calling for her but with no response. He sat the movies down on the table that sat beside the stairs and noticed a folded piece of paper with his name written on it. He knew what it was even before he picked it up and all the happiness that he was feeling just moments before drained from him leaving an empty hollow feeling he knew so well. He unfolded the paper and read the words she had hurriedly written telling him something had come up and they would spend time together soon.

Micky crumbled the paper and tossed it back on the table. She ought to just have that stupid note printed, he thought. He looked at the keys in his hand giving them a toss straight up and catching them when they came back down. He wasnt going to stay home alone tonight so he turned around and went back outside to his car, guiding it back out the driveway and down the street to the bar not far from home.

~~~~~~~~~~

Ally unbuckled Bradleys safety straps and lifted him out of his seat. She was supposed to meet Mike for lunch and was looking forward to it. She walked in the front door of HQ and put Bradley down.

"Ally," the receptionist, Jill, said. "I have a message for you. Mike had to leave for an emergency meeting so he cant make lunch. He tried to get in touch with you before he left but couldnt."

"Thank you," Ally said, not really surprised. Then a thought occurred to her. "Is Micky here?"

"Yes, hes in his office."

"Come on Brad. Lets go talk to Uncle Micky," Ally said then started down the hall, Bradley running ahead as fast as his little legs would take him. When they came to Mickys partially open office door, Ally grabbed Bradleys hand to stop him and peeked inside. Micky wasnt at his desk so she quietly pushed the door open a little more seeing Micky lying on the leather couch, his arm across his eyes.

Before Ally could stop him, Bradley ran inside and slapped his hands down on Mickys chest, startling him.

"Mcky," Bradley squealed in his baby talk.

Micky jumped then smiled when he saw Bradley.

"Hi, there little buddy," he said lifting the boy onto his stomach. "Hows my favorite little boy today?"

Bradley leaned down and gave Micky a hug, laying his head on Mickys chest. This little boy was very special to him and he had a soft spot in his heart for him. He hadnt been around much when his own son was growing up and he was enjoying being around for Bradleys growing up.

"Hi, Micky. Are you feeling okay?" Ally asked as she sat in the chair adjacent to the couch.

"Hi, Ally. Yeah, fine except for a whopper of a headache. Susan and I had plans last night but something came up," he said making a face. "So, I ended up at a bar not too far from home and I had a little too much to drink."

Ally chuckled. "A hangover! Micky, arent you a little bit old for that. You should know better than to drink that much."

Micky made a face at her then smiled. "What are you doing here?"

"I was supposed to have lunch with Mike but..."

"Something came up," Micky and Ally said together.

Micky sat up and put a squirming Bradley down. "How about having lunch with me? I could use some food."

She thought for a moment. It would be wonderful to have lunch with someone who understood what she was going through, especially a friend like Micky.

"Id love to," she answered with a smile.

"Great," Micky said returning her smile and getting up from the couch. They walked out the door, Micky carrying Bradley and his arm around Allys shoulders.

The little group of three went to a fast food restaurant near the office and thoroughly enjoyed themselves. They laughed and talked, Micky enjoying the time with Bradley and Ally enjoying spending time with someone who showed he cared about her. Ally drove back to the office and Micky stepped out of the car.

"Thanks for having lunch with me," he said, leaning down to see her through the window. "I enjoyed it."

"Me, too." Bradley squealed and Ally looked at him in the rearview mirror. "And so did he."

Micky looked at Bradley and smiled, waving at him. "I like spending time with him. Id take him home with me if I thought I could get away with it."

Ally laughed. As she watched Micky and Bradley interacting, something within her stirred. She wasnt quite sure what it was but it made her a bit uncomfortable.

"Well, Ive got to get back home. I need to be working on my writing."

"Okay. Ill see you soon. Be careful," Micky said as they held each others gaze. Micky wasnt sure what he saw in her eyes, whether it was the look of deep friendship or maybe more. He stood up straight, waved and Ally pulled the car away. Micky watched her go until he could no longer see the car then went inside to his office trying to forget about what he was thinking.

After Micky had gone inside, Peter got out of his car. They had not noticed that he was sitting in the car next to Allys and he had seen and heard the exchange between the two. Something was going on and he would have to talk to Micky and find out what it was. The last thing they needed was those two getting involved with each other.

"Can I talk to you?" Peter asked as he stepped inside Mickys office just before he left for home that afternoon.

Micky looked up from the papers on his desk. "Sure, come on in."

Peter sat down in the chair across from Micky. "How are things going for you at home?"

"All right, I guess. Why do you ask?" Micky was confused by the question and not sure how to answer.

"Just curious. Im just concerned about a friend." He smiled at Micky, trying to make him more comfortable.

"Well, you dont really have anything to be concerned about. Susan and I are just fine." He knew he was lying but he was trying to make it sound believable, if not to Peter than to himself.

Peter sat silently watching Micky for a moment then decided to let it go for now.

"Good. I guess Ill go home now. Elizabeth wants to go out tonight and if I dont get there soon, Ill be in trouble," Peter said with a smile that told Micky it wasnt really true. Elizabeth rarely made trouble for Peter. They were a very mellow couple and hardly ever even raised their voices to each other.

Micky returned the smile. "Have a good time. See you tomorrow." He watched Peter leave and sat back in his chair. What on earth had come over him, he thought. Why was he in here asking about my home life? He looked at his watch. Almost six oclock. He should be going home but there was no one there. He didnt want to sit at home alone so he stayed at the office until it was time to go home and go to bed.

~Chapter Four

The next two days were horrible for Ally. Her publisher had called and told her that they had to have her manuscript by the end of the month which was only two weeks away. She worked on it nonstop, letting Bradley have full run of the house. Mike was upset about that when he came home and found that Bradley had gotten everything he could think of out of his room and spread it all over the family room. There were cups of juice and milk here and there and cereal and cookies in places they didnt belong.

Ally was running on her last nerve and when Mike came home late and everything was still the same, his temper flared.

"What have you been doing the last two days? This place looks like a tornado touched down in here. You havent even cleaned him up from lunch," Mike said, pointing to Bradley as he looked up and smiled at his daddy with a food covered mouth.

"And look at you. You havent even put clothes on today. You look like something the cat drug in." He pointed to her rumpled t-shirt and flannel pants. Her uncombed hair looked as if she had hastily pulled it back and up into a clip. She usually wore a little make up everyday and she hadnt even cleaned up enough to put that on.

Ally closed the laptop she was working on and got up from the desk going into the kitchen for a drink, Mike following.

"I have been trying to get this stupid manuscript ready to send out by the end of the month. I cant come up with any ideas to write and Im about ready to blow so dont come in here telling me Im not taking care of the house and my son. He isnt hurt and a little dirt wont hurt him for a while. And as for me, Im comfortable. If it makes you so sick then dont look at me."

Ignoring the last comment, he said, "What are you planning for dinner? Or did you even think about that?"

Fire flew from her eyes and she walked up to him. "I dont know whats for dinner," she said in a low, deceptively calm voice. "Youre a big boy, get it yourself."

With that, she turned and walked to their bedroom, slamming the door when she entered. When she came out an hour later, cleaned up and casually dressed in a white button-down shirt and short denim skirt, she went into the kitchen where Mike was feeding Bradley a sandwich and chips.

Taking a soda out of the refrigerator, she looked at Mike and said, "Im going out for a while. I need to talk to someone."

Ally grabbed her purse from the counter and he followed her to the door.

"By the way, do I look better now? Is that the reason you wont touch me, because Im not appealing to you anymore?" she said as she stopped at the door and turned to him.

"What?" He was surprised by her words. "What are you talking about?"

"Im talking about the fact that you and I have not made love in a very long time and quite frankly, I miss it. I miss the man I married." She kept her eyes on his looking for any kind of emotion that would tell her how he felt. All she saw was anger.

"Weve made love lately. Dont say we havent."

"No, Michael. There is a difference between making love and having sex and believe me, shotgun, we havent made love for a while. And Im tired of trying to get you to talk about it and you ignoring me."

She opened the door and started to walk out.

"Where are you going? Its after ten," Mike asked.

"Im going to talk to Susan," she said and slammed the front door behind her.

Mike stood there behind the closed door fuming. She had left him to deal with a wrecked house, a tired, hungry baby and his thoughts about what had just happened. He couldnt understand her lately. She was like a loaded gun just waiting for someone, usually him, to pull the trigger. He hit the door with his hand and turned back to the kitchen and Bradley.

"Lets get you cleaned up and put to bed, kiddo. Its awfully late for you to be up," he said sweetly, taking him from the highchair and carrying him to the bathroom.

~~~~~~~~~~

Micky sat alone in his family room listening to a cd of the newest group they had signed. There was only a lamp on and the room mirrored the darkness he was feeling. He was, once again, looking forward to spending time with Susan but that afternoon she had called and said she and the girls were going to San Francisco for an overnight shopping trip.

"So, here I sit. Alone again," he said aloud, holding up the wineglass he was drinking from, then taking a big sip of the cool dark liquid. The doorbell rang and he looked at his watch.

"Who could that be?"

He stood and went to the door.

"Ally! What are you doing here at this hour?" he asked when he opened the door to find her standing there.

"Mike and I had an argument and I came to see Susan."

"Come on in." He shut the door when she stepped inside. "Im afraid Susan isnt here right now. She went on an overnight shopping trip with April and Angie."

"Oh, I guess I should have known that, huh? Ill go then," Ally said turning back to the door.

"No, stay. I could use the company. Ill get you something to drink. Go on in the family room. Ill be there in a minute."

Ally went into the family room and sat on the couch to wait for Micky. The cd was still playing and she recognized the song as the one Mike had been humming on the night of Bradleys party. Micky came back in the room with a bottle of wine and a glass for Ally. He filled hers then poured a little more into his and sat down beside her.

"So, you want to talk about it?" Micky sat his glass on the table after taking a drink.

Ally took a sip of wine and kept her eyes on her glass. Without warning, she started crying and Micky took her glass and sat it down next to his then put his arms around her and scooted closer to comfort her.

"Its all right. Go ahead and cry," he said softly, rubbing her back.

She finally stopped crying enough to talk but stayed in his arms.

"I feel like my husband doesnt love me anymore. He never touches me like he used to and its been such a long time since he showed me how much he cares for me."

Micky knew just how she felt. "Im sure thats not true."

"Ive tried to talk to him but he just ignores me and changes the subject as quickly as he can."

"I know how you feel," Micky said softly. He moved his hand to her head and stroked her soft, sweet smelling hair. He had never noticed just how lovely she was until just then. She was a beautiful woman and she was here with him, in his arms.

Ally felt so comfortable with Micky and loved the feel of his strong arms around her making her feel safe and warm. She had never thought of him as a man before, only as a friend. But now as she sat in his strong and loving embrace, she realized just how wonderful he was. He was a handsome, caring man and she could feel how much he cared about her.

They pulled away from each other, their faces only inches away and looked in each others eyes. They each saw in the others eyes what they wanted to see in their partners and Micky leaned closer to Ally. His lips brushed hers and he waited for her to pull away but instead she kissed him back.

He put his hand on her head and pulled her closer running his other hand up her bare leg. She moved closer and he pulled her to his lap, his hand on her thigh under her short skirt.

Ally wanted to feel his skin, too and ran her hands under his t-shirt. His skin felt warm and soft sending a charge down her spine. He started to take off his shirt and she helped, looking at his chest like it was the first time shed ever seen it even though it wasnt. She had never noticed how muscular he was before and she kissed his chest as he fumbled with the buttons on her shirt.

Ally wiggled out of her shirt when he had the buttons undone and he smiled as he looked at her.

"You are beautiful," he whispered and placed a kiss on her throat.

He lay down and pulled her down with him. They kissed more and each kiss became more passionate and their hands began to roam.

"Oh, Suzy," Micky said barely above a whisper.

Suddenly everything stopped and they both opened their eyes. Ally found her shirt and hurriedly slipped it back on as she scooted to the end of the couch. Micky sat up at the opposite end.

"Oh, God. What have I done?" Micky asked, his head in his hands. "Ive just been making out with my best friends wife. Hes gonna kill me."

"It was my fault too," Ally said, buttoning her shirt, feeling more embarrassed than she ever had before. "He wont kill you."

Micky looked at her. "Youve never seen what he can do. Ive witnessed him almost kill a man for coming on to Melanie." He put his head back in his hands. "Oh, Im a dead man."

Ally smoothed her shirt thinking that Micky was exaggerating. Surely Mike would never do anything like that. She knew he had a temper, she had seen his temper, but he had never gotten that mad in her presence.

"Everything will be just fine. We wont let him find out anything right now. Lets just play it by ear and well think of a nice, easy way to bring it up," Ally said, trying to stay calm.

"What? Are you crazy! You want to tell him what just happened?" Micky couldnt believe what he was hearing. He had just been making out with his best friends wife and she wanted to tell him about it.

"Think about it, Micky. If we dont tell him and later on down the road it comes out, what do you think he is going to do? It would be better to face his wrath for just fooling around than to face his wrath for fooling around and hiding it from him, which would make a fool out of him." Ally watched as that information sunk in.

Micky leaned back on the couch. "I see what you mean. Why did things have to get this complicated? Im so sorry, Ally."

She stood up, smoothed out her clothes and started to the door.

"Im sorry, too. It wasnt just your fault. I think there are four of us at fault," she said. She couldnt even look at him, she was so ashamed of herself.

Micky followed her to the door. "What do we do now?"

Ally turned to face him noticing he had not put his shirt back on. She looked away and blushed.

"Just go about the day tomorrow like nothing happened. Well think of something." She turned the doorknob and started to walk out the door when Micky stopped her with his hand on her arm.

"I really am very sorry."

She smiled at him and covered his hand with hers. "At least now I know that there is nothing wrong with me."

"What?" he asked.

"I know that I am still attractive enough to get a mans attention," she answered softly almost ashamed that she even felt that way.

"Ally, what made you think you arent attractive? You are one of the most beautiful women Ive ever met. Not only on the outside, but also on the inside."

Ally suddenly gave him a hug and he put his arms around her.

"Thank you, Micky. I really needed to hear that." She clung to him, her tears falling softly on his shoulder.

"I meant every word of it." She pulled away from him and he wiped her tears from her cheek. "Go home and get a good nights sleep. Well deal with this in the morning."

"Okay," Ally answered, then kissed his cheek and turned to leave.

Micky shut the door behind her and leaned against it. He wished he felt as confident as he had tried to sound. In reality, he was scared to death to think what Mike would do to him when he found out about this. But he knew Mike would have to know. Ally was right. Mike would handle it much better to find out right now instead of later on.

He pushed himself away from the door and went to bed his head full of thoughts of what happened and what could happen.

~Chapter Five

Susan sat in Mickys office waiting for him to come back from an early meeting. She had gotten back from San Francisco and gone straight to the office. The girls had enlightened her about something the day before and she needed to talk to him as soon as possible. She, Angie and April had been at a nice restaurant for dinner the night before and they had brought up the subject of her relationship with Micky.

"Mom," April started after Susan noticed that she and Angie were eyeing each other. "How is your relationship with Dad these days?"

Susan looked up at her daughter with surprise, her fork halfway to her mouth. "What kind of question is that?"

"Weve noticed some things lately and were concerned," Angie said.

Susan put her fork down and looked at Angie. "What sort of things would that be?"

"Well, you dont really spend a lot of time with Dad anymore."

"I spend time with your dad," Susan answered, a little hurt that they would think such a thing.

"Mom," Angie said patting Susans hand. "When was the last time you and Dad went out for dinner?"

"Or," April added, "stayed home and watched a movie curled up on the couch in each others arms like I used to find you when I couldnt sleep?"

Susan started to say something, but she realized it had been a while since they had done either of those things.

"Ive been busy with my charity work but it will slow down soon. Besides if your dad feels that we havent been spending enough time together, hell tell me."

"Thats just it, Mom. He has been telling you," Angie said.

"Youve been too busy to hear him," April added quietly.

There was silence as Susan looked from one daughter to the other seeing the look of love and concern in their eyes. As she thought back over the past few months, she realized they were right. Micky had tried to tell her numerous times that things werent right between them and she just ignored him or pretended he was just imagining things. How many times had he come home with plans and she had to be somewhere else? How unfair to him, she thought.

"Why didnt I see this before?" she asked aloud to no one in particular.

The girls just looked at one another without answering.

After some more thought, Susan looked up and smiled. "Well, I think we will have to cut this trip a little short. Were leaving first thing in the morning and Im going to talk with your dad. Everything will be back to the way it should and well all be happier. I guess since the accident Ive been focusing on the wrong things. Thanks, girls, for talking to me about it. I know it probably took a lot of courage to tell your old mom that she was neglecting her husband."

April and Angie laughed and nodded.

"Were just glad you took it so well," April said.

"Probably because I knew it deep down inside all the time," Susan replied.

Susan sat at Mickys desk looking through Rolling Stone magazine waiting for him to return. She wasnt sure what she would say but she knew things would change.

~~~~~~~~~~

"Thanks for coming in and talking to us. Well be in touch. I think you have real talent and I think we can work with you," Peter said as he shook hands with a young man eager to be signed by HQ Music.

"Thank you, Mr. Tork, Mr. Dolenz," the young man replied, shaking both Peter and Mickys hands. He left the room and Peter turned to Micky.

"How are things going for you at home?"

Micky did not want to talk about this now, especially after what had happened the night before. All he wanted to do was go hide in his office and hope that Mike didnt come in today.

"Peter, things are just fine. I dont have time to talk right now." He gathered his papers and walked out the door as Peter watched, shaking his head.

Things are going to blow soon, he thought.

Micky cautiously made his way down the hall to his office keeping one eye open for Mike. He was afraid of what might happen if Mike even suspected anything. He opened his office door and closed it quickly.

"Hello," he heard behind him.

He jumped and turned around to find Susan smiling from behind his desk.

"Dont *do* that," he said holding his chest. "You scared me."

"Whats got you so jumpy this morning?" she asked.

"Nothing," he smiled. "What are you doing here? I thought you werent getting back till this afternoon."

"Well, our daughters had a nice little talk with me last night and pointed something out to me," she said standing and meeting him as he stepped around the desk. She put her arms around him and kissed his cheek.

"What is this all about?" he asked returning the kiss with one on her lips and wrapping his arms around her.

"They told me that I havent been spending quite enough time with you and I happen to agree. How about having lunch with me today?"

Micky smiled and gave her another kiss. "I think that can be arranged. Maybe I can clear my schedule and lunch can last all day."

Susan grinned. "Sounds like a lunch I wouldnt want to miss."

Micky kissed her more passionately this time, forgetting all about what had happened and hiding from Mike.

~~~~~~~~~~

Ally drug herself out of bed late and dressed before going to check on Bradley. She looked in his bed and discovered he was not there. For a second, she panicked but then she heard his giggle from the other room. She made her way to the kitchen and found Mike and Bradley sitting at the table eating.

"Why are you still here?" she asked pouring a cup of coffee.

"Good morning to you too," Mike answered. "Since you got home so late last night, I decided to stay with Brad till you got up."

His explanation sounded nice but the tone it was delivered in was anything but nice. He turned a cold gaze toward her and Ally felt the chill from where she was standing. "Did you get all your problems solved last night?"

"All 'my' problems? Is that what you think this whole thing is? 'My' problem?" She couldnt believe that he was not going to take any responsibility for the way things were.

"You are the one who keeps bringing it up." He couldnt stop himself from blaming her for everything although he knew good and well that was not the case. He sat Bradley down and got up from the table to get a cup of coffee for himself.

"Yes, I keep bringing it up. I want to solve it and get back to the way it used to be," she screamed. "I want a relationship with my husband again."

Something snapped inside her head and she no longer was thinking before she spoke. "I found out last night I can still attract a man so this thing is not all my problem."

As soon as the words left her mouth she wished with all her heart she could take them back. He looked at her with a surprised look.

"What did you say?"

She knew he had heard her loud and clear. There was no way to get out of this one. She would just have to try to soften the blow somehow.

"I found out that Im not the one with the problem. I can still turn someones head so what is your problem with me?" There, that should work, she thought. Maybe get him to focus on that question.

Mikes mind was working on trying to figure out where she was last night and what she was doing. She had said she was going to Susans but what was that Micky had told him? She and the girls went to San Francisco overnight. Susan wasnt home and Ally had been gone a very long time.

At the moment he put it all together, Ally saw the shadow cross his face and then the fire exploded in his eyes.

"Susan wasnt home. You spent that much time at her house last night." He slammed down his cup and started for the door.

"Ill kill him," he growled, grabbing his jacket from the back of a chair and racing for the door.

"Wait, Mike," she said following. "Its not what you think. Nothing happened."

He paid no attention to her and she stood at the door watching him peel out of the driveway in his big, black truck.

"Mike," she yelled one more time.

"Mama." She felt a little tug on her pant leg and looked down to see Bradley looking up at her with bright eyes. She picked him up and hugged him. He hugged her back and lay his head on her shoulder.

Suddenly, she felt a strong and loving bond with him and realized it had been there all the time. Bradley loved her from the moment he was born it was just that Mike needed him and his comfort more than she did and it only seemed that their bond was stronger. Right now she needed him and he was here, giving her all his love, without question.

"Oh, Bradley. What have I done?" She held him tight and then a thought occurred to her. Micky. If Mike got to Micky before she could try to explain, things would get ugly. She grabbed the diaper bag and rushed out the door.

~Chapter Six

Mike threw the heavy glass door open and stomped through the reception area ignoring Peter as he said hello. He made his way down the hallway to Mickys door and threw it open with a crash when it hit the bookcase behind it.

Micky and Susan both jumped and Micky instinctively grabbed her close to him.

"You!" Mike yelled, pointing at Micky.

Micky could almost see the fire in Mikes eyes and the smoke rolling out of his ears.

"You filthy son of a b****," Mike said from the doorway.

"Mike, whats going on?" Micky asked, trying to play dumb, his voice an octave higher than normal.

"You know damn well whats going on," Mike said coming closer to Micky. "I just found out what you did last night."

"Oh, no," Micky said in a whisper, closing his eyes for a moment.

"What is he talking about?" Susan asked, confused.

"You want to tell her or should I?"

"Mike, I dont know what you think happened, but nothing happened. We just talked." He was lying through his teeth but he knew if he didnt his life was over right then. He couldnt believe that Ally had told Mike without letting him know how and when.

Ally rushed in the front door of the office building and Peter said hello. When she heard him, she turned back to him and shoved Bradley and his bag in Peters face.

"Here, take him. Is Mike here?"

"Yeah, he came stomping through here on his way to Mickys office just a little while ago. He didnt look too happy. Whats going on?" Peter asked as Bradley played with his nose.

"Youll find out soon enough. Right now I have to go save Mickys life," Ally said as she ran off down the hallway.

When she stepped in the doorway, she found Mike in front of Micky who was backed up against the wall and Susan trying desperately to talk him out of rearranging Mickys face.

"Michael," she shouted. "Dont touch him."

Mike turned around to face her and the look on his face scared her to death.

Micky felt like a condemned man who was just pardoned by the governor at one minute till midnight.

"I tried to tell you nothing happened," Ally said.

Finally Susan could be quiet no longer. "Will someone please tell me what is going on?"

"These two were alone last night for three hours and I was lead to believe that they were not just talking," Mike explained glaring at Ally.

Ally rolled her eyes in disgust. "I knew as soon as I opened my mouth, it was the wrong thing to say. I told you I found out I could still attract a man. I didnt say how."

"What!" Susan exclaimed. "What did you do?" She looked at Micky waiting for an answer.

Micky took a deep breath and started to explain. "She came over to see you, but as usual, you were gone. So, I asked her to stay and we talked. We were both lonely and feeling ignored..." he said, looking away from Susan.

"And," Ally finished. "We kissed. Thats all." Of course, I ended up without a shirt and my hands all over him, but lets not go there right now, she thought.

Mike looked from Ally to Micky, not knowing which one to go after first. He knew by the way they looked at each other they werent telling him everything and that made him even more angry and frustrated. He felt like crushing Mickys face and he wasnt sure what he felt like doing to Ally. Finally, without a word, he walked out of the room leaving the other three breathing a sigh of relief.

Peter quickly ducked into his office, having been on his way with Bradley when he heard Mikes angry voice. He had stopped and listened, trying to keep Bradley from making noise and trying to keep a tight hold on him. Being an active one-year-old, that proved to be rather hard but he had managed.

According to what he overheard, his instincts had been right about Micky and Ally. Now what was going to happen? He should have tried harder to get Micky to listen to him. But, whats done is done, he thought to himself watching Bradley try to pet the ceramic dog on the floor.

"Oh, Bradley," he said as he bent down to ruffle his hair. "What is going to happen with you? I hope your parents dont screw things up."

He tried to think positive. Surely Mike and Ally would be able to work this out.

~~~~~~~~~~

Ally stood in the middle of the room, tears stinging her eyes. Micky and Susan stood perfectly still and quiet, watching Ally.

"Im sorry, Micky. I didnt mean for it to come out like this." She looked up at them. "Susan, Im sorry. I never meant for this to happen. I never wanted to hurt either of you."

After saying that, she quietly and gracefully left the room. Micky was unsure of what to say and he felt even smaller than Davy at the moment. Susan turned to him with an unreadable expression on her face.

"So, you and Ally were alone last night, feeling lonely and neglected and one thing led to another and you ended up kissing? Right?"

Micky nodded his head in answer.

"Something tells me you are not telling me everything so why dont you just spill it right now," Susan said sitting in the chair in front of the desk.

Micky sat down in his leather desk chair and looked at her. There was no way to lie to her. He wished he didnt have to tell her what had happened but he was glad that they had stopped before something more came about. He took a deep breath and started talking.

"Ally came to see you and when she found out you werent there, she was going to leave. But, I said no, stay. We had a drink, she started crying and telling me what was wrong between her and Mike and then she was in my arms." He was uncomfortable telling Susan his story and he looked up to see her watching and waiting for him to finish, still with an unreadable expression.

"I was only giving her a hug until we looked at each other and something snapped. I saw a look in her eyes that I hadnt seen in yours for a long time and I kissed her. She kissed me back and before I knew it, we both had our shirts, only our shirts, off. Then I said your name and we came to our senses. I didnt see anymore of her than Ive seen when weve all gone to the beach." He paused a moment, looked down at his hands and then added. "I was thinking of you the whole time, wishing I had you in my arms."

Susan listened carefully to what Micky said. It hurt to hear it but she knew she had to and she knew he had to tell it. They wouldnt be able to work it out if he kept anything inside and she didnt listen. She thought back to a time years ago when the guys had been on tour and she was lonely and needing someone, too. There had been a man she met on the beach while Micky was gone to England and one thing led to another only she wasnt able to stop before it became extremely serious. She knew exactly what Micky and Ally were both going through. She had been there.

"I know," Susan said. She looked up into Mickys eyes and smiled. "I remember what it felt like. I just wish I had been able to see it this time and stop it before it happened. But, you did stop and for that Im thankful. And Im sorry it came to this. Its partly my fault. We will help Mike and Ally through this. I have a feeling he wont be as understanding."

Micky was amazed. After what had happened all those years ago, he thought for sure she would see it as a payback and not be so understanding.

"What did I ever do to deserve you?" he asked with a small smile.

Susan smiled back. "Nothing. I love you and I have for over twenty-five years. We have a history together and we cant just give that up. Well get through this just like we got through it before."

~~~~~~~~~~~

Ally lightly tapped on Peters office door and walked in after his invitation.

"Thanks for watching Bradley for me. I appreciate it," she said.

Peter looked at her sad face and red eyes. "Ally, what is going on around here?"

She plopped into the chair across from him and told him the entire story.

"Wow. I see why Mike was so angry this morning," Peter said as he sat back in his chair. "Dont worry. Im sure after hes had a few days to cool off and think about it, everything will be fine."

"I admire your optimism, Peter, but I dont share it. He was incredibly angry and hurt. I dont think things will be very pleasant at my house for a while." She stood up and gathered Bradley and his things and Peter followed her to the door.

"Ally," he said stopping her. "Everything will work out eventually. He loves you very much."

He stood in front of her, his dimpled smile shining back at her and she couldnt help but smile.

"Oh, Peter. Ill try to think positive." She patted his cheek then turned and left the building.

~Chapter Seven

Mike sat in his truck looking around at the scenery. The late summer colors were bright and the sun streamed through the leaves of the trees but everything looked black and white to him. He wanted to kick himself for letting things get to where they were. Even Bridget tried to tell him to pay more attention, but he didnt listen to her. He didnt listen to Ally when she tried to tell him either. And now here he was, feeling sorry for himself, angry with his best friend and hurt that his wife went to someone else.

He had gotten behind the wheel after seeing Micky, Susan and Ally and just started driving. After an hour and a half, he ended up at the company owned cabin in the woods next to a lake. He hadnt gotten in the truck with this destination in mind but this was where he went. The cabin held many memories for him, both good and bad. The guys had bought it shortly after starting HQ Music and he and Melanie had spent many vacations here, sometimes with the rest of the family and sometimes just the two of them or with Bridget. They had celebrated anniversaries, birthdays and holidays here. He smiled in spite of himself at the wonderfully happy memories.

Then his thoughts went to another reason he had come to the cabin. When Melanie died, this was where he had run away from everything, where he had contemplated going with her. He shuddered to think of the feelings he had then and how close he came to ending it all. But Bridget had saved him. The thought of leaving her had brought him back to life and he had made a vow to be there for her.

And then he had met Ally. She had come into his life right when he needed her, although he hadnt realized he needed her till she was there. He loved her with all his heart and soul. How did things get so screwed up?

What was he going to do now? He decided to first get out of the truck and see if the cabin was stocked enough to stay the night. He didnt think he could face Ally or anyone else. That was as far as he could think. He would stay the night and then see what happened.

Mike opened the door and stepped out of the truck into the slightly cool afternoon and walked to the door. After surveying the cabin, he determined he could stay until morning then go into town for supplies. Sitting down on the couch to think, he drifted off to sleep, dreaming of Ally and the way things were.

~~~~~~~~~~

Ally woke with a start. Looking around she realized she had fallen asleep on the couch waiting for Mike to come home. She sat up and shook the sleep from her head. Had he come home? she asked herself. She got up and went to the bedroom to look. It really didnt surprise her to find the bed empty. Since she was already up, she decided to take her shower before Bradley got up.

Once inside the shower, she let the tears fall. If only she hadnt gone to see Susan, if only she had left when she found out Susan was gone, if only it had not felt so good to have Mickys arms around her. If only it had been Mikes arms. Thats what she really wanted; Mike to be the one to comfort her and to be there for her. There must be something wrong with me, she thought. More tears fell and when they had finally been spent, she let the water wash the remains away.

Ally went to the closet to get her clothes and the first thing she saw were Mikes shirts hanging neatly beside her things. She ran her hand along the cloth and took one of her favorites out; a faded denim western shirt with pearl snaps. Bringing it to her face, she noticed it smelled like him. A thought occurred to her and she took the shirt off the hanger, put on a t-shirt and jeans then slipped the denim shirt on. It was too big for her, of course, so she rolled up the sleeves, another thing that reminded her of Mike. He always wore this shirt with the sleeves rolled up. She went to his dresser, opened the top drawer and pulled out a red handkerchief. He sometimes wore one rolled and tied around his neck and she decided to use it to pull her hair back. Maybe this would help her feel close to him till she found out where he was.

Ally got Bradley fed and settled into playing with his toys then sat down for a cup of coffee when the doorbell rang. She opened the door to find Susan standing on the other side.

"Hi," Susan said noticing Allys wardrobe but not saying anything. "Can I come in and talk?"

"Sure," Ally answered with a small smile.

They went to the kitchen and Ally poured Susan a cup of coffee then sat down at the table.

"First, let me tell you that I am not angry with you for what happened. I understand completely how and why it happened. I am partly to blame and I accept that blame. I have to tell you something that may help you understand my feelings." Susan told Ally about meeting a man on the beach when the guys were touring England in the early seventies. She was at home with a baby and she was lonely. She and the man started a relationship and had an affair. She and Micky worked it out but it almost caused them to file for divorce. Ever since then, they had been closer than they were before it happened and they always seemed to be able to communicate with each other with ease.

"Until lately," Susan said. "Since we had our accident, I buried myself in charity work because I didnt want to leave this world and my life not count for anything. I know that being a wife and mother is not nothing, but I felt as if I had a lot more to offer the world. I was over fifty years old and I hadnt done anything that I thought was important. I lost sight of the most important person in my life-Micky. I understand his feelings and why it happened. I have been there."

Susan put her hand on top of Allys and looked her in the eye.

"I want to help you and Mike work this out. He loves you very much and I know that he wont want to let you go but this has hurt his pride. It will be a tough fight, but one we can win. Speaking of Mike, where is he?" Susan asked.

"Thats a good question. He didnt come home yesterday. I have no idea where he is."

Just then, Bradley came toddling up to Susan with a smile and a toy to show her. Smiling back, she picked him up and gave him a hug.

"Hi, there, little man," she said, taking the toy he offered and then depositing him back to the floor so he could run off again. There was no way she would let Mike ruin that little boys life. He needed Mike as much as Mike needed him. And for that matter, Ally needed him as much as he needed her too.

"Well, he probably went somewhere to gather his thoughts. He does that sometimes when things are getting complicated. If you dont hear from him in the next couple of days then we will have to go looking for him. He is going to face this and work it out whether he wants to or not," Susan said with a determined smile. "Now, lets see about getting you something to eat."

~~~~~~~~~~

Micky paced in the crowded airport watching the passengers enter the room. He was there to pick up David and his wife, Julie who would be in California for a month for business. He didnt look forward to telling David what was going on but there was no way around it. It had happened and Micky had to face it.

"Micky!" Davids voice brought him out of his reverie and he looked up to see David and Julie walking his way.

"Hi," Micky said with a brotherly hug for David and a kiss for Julie. "How was your flight?"

"Long," Julie answered with a chuckle.

"It was okay," David said. "Whats up with you?"

"What are you talking about?" Micky nervously asked. He tried to look as nonchalant as possible. How had David suspected something was up?

"What do you mean what am I talking about? I mean, how have you been since I talked to you last." David watched as Micky fidgeted a bit and acted very uneasy. "Micky, what has happened? Is everyone all right?"

Micky took a deep breath and told them the entire story and finding that it somehow made him feel better.

"Oh, man. I dont know what to say. Except maybe that Im amazed you are still alive," David said.

"You and me both," Micky added as they made their way to the baggage claim area. He was amazed and thankful that he was still alive.

"How is Ally?" Julie asked.

"Im not sure. Susan went to see her this morning." He really hoped that she was doing okay.

Micky picked up one of their bags and David picked up another one. "Well," he said with a pat on Mickys back. "This may be a very interesting stay."

~Chapter Nine

Ally awoke about two hours later, her stomach growling for food. She found something to make a sandwich and some chips. Although she was hungry, she just picked at the food. As she sat at the table, she wondered how much longer she would have to endure Mikes silent treatment.

Suddenly, the bedroom door opened and Mike came out, replacing the magazines he had taken into the bedroom earlier. He quietly walked around her to the sink to get a drink of water. Why did she have to show up here? he wondered. It made it so much harder to be angry when he had to see her.

Summoning her courage, Ally broke the silence. "Mike, can we please talk? I think we might be able to ease some of the tension around here if you would just sit down and have a talk."

"Talk? You think we can just patch everything up by you telling me you are sorry; that youll never do it again?" He slammed the glass down on the counter making her jump. "I dont think so."

Allys anger now flared and she stood up to face him, her fiery eyes staring into his. "No, that is not what I think. I think you need to give me a chance to explain how Ive been feeling and you need to explain how you have been feeling."

He just stared at her, not knowing what to say. He loved her so much. She had the courage to stand there in front of him and meet his fire, flame for flame. Others had cowered in similar situations, but not her. Suddenly, he felt the need to put some distance between them and he brushed past her to the bedroom.

Ally was not going to let him get away that easy and followed him.

"What are you doing?" he asked when he realized she was behind him.

"Im going everywhere you go, shotgun. We are going to take care of this if its the last thing we do," she replied.

He didnt know what to say to that. She was so cute when she used the familiar Texas slang he used sometimes and it made him even madder when he felt that way. He had to get away, but where? The bathroom. She wouldnt follow him there.

He passed her and left the room, making his way to the bathroom. To his surprise, she was right behind him, catching the door when he gave it a shove to shut it. She stepped into the room, slamming the door behind her.

Mike gave a low growl and cursed, then grabbed the doorknob finding that it wouldnt work and he couldnt get the door open. He turned, yanked and jiggled the knob but nothing worked.

"You broke the doorknob."

"I broke it?" Ally said moving forward, pushing him out of the way to try the knob for herself. "I didnt do anything to the door. You probably broke it when you were trying to force it open." Sure enough, the knob was broken.

Mike glared at her and moved to the window to try it but he could only get it open about six inches and couldnt get the screen off. Ally sat on the side of the tub and watched Mike as he went from the window to the door then to the cabinet like a caged animal. He looked through every item hoping to find something to get them, mainly him, out of the bathroom.

"You might as well relax. We arent getting out of here till Micky and Susan come back in the morning," Ally said resting her elbow on her leg and her chin in her hand.

"Dont mention his name to me," Mike growled, pointing his finger at her.

Ally held up her hands in surrender deciding to give up for now and let him cool off in his own time. He would eventually sit and relax then maybe he would open up to her since he had nowhere to go. She watched him as he tried the doorknob once more, went back to the cabinet looking for something, anything to get the door or window open, then he finally sat on the toilet, leaned his head back and closed his eyes.

"Can we talk now?" Ally softly asked.

He opened his eyes and ran his hand through his silver-gray hair.

"All right," he said sounding tired and defeated. "I cant run anymore."

Ally desperately wanted to go to him and wrap her arms around him and tell him everything would be okay; that she loved him more than life itself.

"Wheres Brad?" he asked, looking up at her. The anger was now gone from his eyes and the expression that replaced it was more hurt and exhaustion.

"Hes with Peter and Elizabeth."

Mike nodded his head, approving of that situation.

"Ive missed him this week," he said quietly.

"Hes missed you too."

She caught his gaze and they sat there staring in each others eyes for a few moments.

"Why?" he asked suddenly. "Why did it happen?"

Ally looked away from his hurt filled eyes and took a deep breath.

"Neither of us meant for it to happen. It just did. I never wanted to hurt you. I love you," she said looking back at him as he waited for her to continue.

"Ever since I came home from the hospital after the accident, you have treated me differently. You dont touch me like you used to. You dont spend time with me like before. No matter what I do, I cant get you to listen to me or talk to me."

She stood up and went to the window, watching the rain fall outside.

"When I went that night, I went to see Susan, but she wasnt there. I was going to leave but Micky said to stay; we could talk. Hes been going through a similar situation with Susan and he was lonely too. We both sat down, had a drink and before I knew it, I was crying on his shoulder."

She turned to see him look away from her and she knew he was hurting but she had to go on.

"I saw something in his eyes that I had wanted to see in yours for so long, Mike. But he wasnt seeing me, he was seeing Susan. He kissed me and I kissed him and..." She looked at Mike and saw how much hurt was on his eyes. Her usually stoic, self-assured husband had unshed tears in his eyes. Ally knelt in front of him.

"I know it hurts to hear it, but thats what happened," she said as her tears fell.

"Yeah, it hurts all right," he said softly as Ally took his hand. It was a bold move she knew, to touch him but she was filled with renewed hope when he squeezed her hand.

"Im so sorry, Michael." She was crying now and Mike scooted closer to her and took her in his arms. He couldnt be angry with her anymore. He loved her too much.

His arms around her brought Ally more comfort that she ever could have imagined. He was stroking her hair and quietly telling her it would be okay. She knew it would be.

After a few moments, Ally pulled away from him and wiped her eyes.

"Why have you been so distant with me lately?" she asked quietly. She let go of him and sat back on the floor, watching him.

Mike got up and walked to the window. He dreaded answering that question; it would show just how insecure he really was. Ally waited patiently till he was ready to talk. Finally he took a deep breath and ran his hand through his hair.

"When you were in the hospital," he started, still looking out the window. "I was afraid I wouldnt be bringing you home with me; that Id be alone again. I was terrified Id have to say goodbye to you forever, just like I had to with Melanie. Thank God, you recovered and came home but then something snapped in my head and I thought that if I didnt get too close to you it wouldnt hurt so much when you were gone."

His confession surprised Ally. She had never considered something like that.

"I know its crazy. I kept telling myself it was crazy but no matter how much I tried, I couldnt shake it. I knew if I didnt stop acting that way, I would risk losing you. Even Bridget tried to tell me. I was just scared. I ignored her like I ignored you. Im so sorry," he said and looked to her.

Ally stood up and went to him. "Oh, Mike. Im not going anywhere." She put her arms around him and hugged him tight, starting to cry. He held her and let her cry, relishing her embrace. She finally pulled away, wiping her eyes.

"And if something ever happens to me, I will be with you forever, right here," she said putting her hand over his heart.

"I know," he answered with a smile, putting his hand over hers. He pulled her into another hug.

"Im so sorry for what happened, so sorry. I love you," she said.

"I love you, too. Well get over it. It will take a while but well make it," he assured her.

They talked most of the night about the situation and what they would do about it then finally fell asleep in each others arms on the bathroom floor.

~Chapter Ten

"I hope he didnt kill her," Micky said as he and Susan stepped onto the cabin porch.

"Oh, Micky. Dont think like that," Susan chided. "Im sure they are just fine."

Susan knocked on the door and they waited but got no response. Micky tried the door and when it opened they both went inside.

"Mike. Ally," Micky called as they looked around. "Suzy, its too quiet in here. Nobody has put wood on the fire for a while and look," he said pointing to the table. "There is food out like they just walked off. Its worse than I thought. Theyve killed each other."

Susan slapped his arm and told him to shut up.

"Go check the bedroom," she said.

Micky started to the closed door then stopped. "I dont want to look in there. What if they made up and they are..." He covered his face with his hand. "I dont even want to think about what they would be doing if they made up. I dont want that picture in my head."

Susan rolled her eyes and went to the bedroom door. "Dont you think its a little too quiet in here for that?"

She knocked lightly and opened the door just enough to peek inside.

"Oh, great. Now I have sound effects to go with the picture in my head," Micky complained. He cautiously followed her inside the room, hiding behind her in case Mike and Ally were there.

"Hmm," Susan said when they found the room empty. "Where could they be? The bed hasnt been slept in."

Micky went out of the bedroom and noticed the closed bathroom door. He tried the knob getting the same results Mike had. He was bending down peering through the keyhole when Susan came up behind him.

"What are you doing?" she exclaimed, startling Micky making him hit his head on the door.

"Ow," he said, rubbing his sore head and straightening up. "I was looking for the lost couple. Theyre in there."

He pointed at the bathroom door and moved away so Susan could look for herself. She could see two sets of legs lying tangled together on the other side of the tub with a terry robe haphazardly covering them. Susan smiled and looked at Micky.

"Looks like it worked."

"Good thing the doorknob broke," Micky said as he fished through a kitchen drawer for a screwdriver. He had the doorknob off and the door open in no time.

He and Susan stood in front of Mike and Ally wondering if they should wake them when Mike stirred and opened his eyes, focusing on Micky. His gaze made Micky uncomfortable and he hid behind Susan.

"Good morning. I guess things are working out?" she asked hopefully.

Mike gently nudged Ally and propped himself against the wall. Ally wiped the sleep from her eyes and sat up.

"Oh, morning," she said sleepily.

"Yeah, things are working out. Micky, you can quit hiding behind your wife," Mike said and watched Micky move away from Susan as he smiled a sheepish grin.

~Chapter Eleven

After Mike and Ally had freshened up and gotten some food, Mike suggested he and Micky go outside for a walk. He gave Ally a kiss on the cheek, grabbed his jacket from behind the door and looked at Micky, who had not moved from his spot in the kitchen.

"Come on. Im not going to do anything but talk."

Micky turned to Susan, gave her a quick kiss and said, "If I dont come back, remember I love you."

Ally hid a laugh behind her hand and looked at Mike as he rolled his eyes and then winked at her before going outside. Micky slipped his jacket on and followed cautiously. They walked in silence to the bridge that just the day before had been under a few feet of rushing water. Now the water had receded and the sun was reflecting off of it making it look like sparkling jewels.

Mike rested his arms on the steel rail, looking at the flowing water under his feet.

"Relax, Mick," he said turning to look at his friend.

"Im trying to, but I really dont know what to expect from you," Micky answered leaning against the rail near Mike.

"I have to admit, the thought did cross my mind to kill you." Mike glanced at Micky, enjoying the fact that just being this close to him was making him squirm.

Micky laughed nervously not knowing whether to believe Mike or not.

"Micky, you are my best friend," Mike said, turning serious. "We have known each other over thirty years. Youve been there for me in good times and bad times. You stood by me both times I got married, you were there when both my children came into the world, you were there for me when Melanie died and you were there for me when I was certain Ally would too."

Mike turned around and leaned his back against the rail, crossing his arms in front of him and looking at Micky.

"This isnt all your fault. Its as much mine, maybe even more my fault than yours. I wont throw away a friendship like ours because of my stupidity. All four of us have some things to work out together and thats exactly what I plan to do-work it out." He held his hand out and Micky hesitantly took it.

"You will always be part of my life, Micky. It may never be like it was before but you will always be my best friend."

Mike then surprised Micky by giving him a hug that made Micky almost cry. The feeling of relief that he hadnt ruined the best friendship hed ever had was almost too much for him to handle.

"Thanks, Mike," he said, returning the hug. "Im so sorry. I never meant for anything like that to happen."

Mike released Micky from the hug but kept his arm around Mickys shoulders. "Its all right. Lets put it behind us and never let the situation present itself again."

"Right," Micky agreed. They started back to the cabin and Mike leaned close to Mickys ear.

"Just remember one thing," he said in a low whisper. "Keep your hands off my wife." He chuckled, the urge to make Micky squirm some more unbearable.

~~~~~~~~~~

"Dont worry about them," Ally said from the kitchen when she noticed Susan watching Mike and Micky from the front window. "They will be all right. Mike and I talked most of the night about the situation and he is only telling Micky that he will always be his friend and that we are going to work everything out."

Ally walked to a spot beside Susan and took a look outside to see Micky standing next to Mike on the bridge.

Susan turned away from the window and smiled at Ally. "I hope youre right."

They both turned back to the window to see Mike give Micky a hug and start back to the cabin.

Ally put her arm around Susans shoulder giving her a squeeze. "I am. We decided that we are not going to let this come between the four of us. We are still friends and we will get through it-together."

~~~~~~~~~~

Micky stood leaning against the doorway of the family room watching Mike and Ally in front of the Christmas tree, wrapped up in a conversation as if they were the only two in the house. They were facing each other, their hands on each others elbows, laughing about something. He smiled at the thought that the two of them were still together even after all that happened.

"So, Micky," David asked stepping beside Micky and watching Mike and Ally also. "How are things going between the four of you?"

Just then, Susan walked up and wrapped her arms possessively around Micky and gave him a kiss on the cheek. He put his arm around her waist and drew her close to him.

"Things are going great. We have all been seeing a counselor and everything seems to be working out for the best." He gave Susan a kiss on the cheek and a quick hug.

"It couldnt be better," Susan added.

"Thats wonderful," David answered giving Micky a smile and a nod. It was great to see his best friends had worked things out and that Christmas was just as it should be. Ever since the four of them had met, Christmas had been spent together. This year it was at Peter and Elizabeths house and everyone was there although just a few short months before, it looked as if a few of the family wouldnt be joining the festivities.

David gave Micky a pat on the back and went to join Julie and Elizabeth by the fireplace.

Micky looked at his wife as he held her in his arms. "Thank you."

Susan smiled and looked at him, confused. "For what?"

"For understanding. For staying with me. For loving me." He gave her another kiss. "I have my Christmas wish. I have you-my friend, my love-back in my life. I love you."

She kissed him back. "I love you, too."

Mike and Ally made their way to David, Julie and Elizabeth at the fireplace just as Peter, decked out in his festive Santa hat with holly and ivy and even a bell attached, walked up to the group carrying a tray of glasses.

"Santa says its time for a toast," he said, smiling, as he passed the glasses out. Micky and Susan took theirs as they joined the others.

Peter raised his glass and looked around at his friends. "A toast to friendship; to strong friendship that can handle anything. And to love. Because without love-love for your friends," he looked at each of his friends, "love for your partner," he looked at Elizabeth, smiling, "there is nothing. Love truly does conquer all."

Everyone clanked their glasses together and agreed in different ways then took a sip. Mike and Ally smiled at each other and he put his arm around her waist just as Bradley came running up to him. Mike laughed and sat his glass down on the mantle and reached down to hoist Bradley up into his arms. He gave the boy a kiss on the cheek and a big hug then gave Ally a kiss.

Micky gave Susan a kiss on the cheek and Peter and Elizabeth hugged while David and Julie kissed. David looked around the circle of friends, glad that things were working out. He loved Ally and she made Mike a better person just by being with him. Susan had always brought the best out of Micky and David would have hated it if anything had happened to tear them all apart. He smiled to himself. It looked as though everything in their world would be fine, at least until the next crisis came along.