Chapter 20

He wasn’t exactly sure if he walked or floated back to the house, but he suddenly found himself on the back porch, velvet box still clutched in his hand, ridiculously happy grin still on his face. His first inclination had been to run right back to Monica and drop down to one knee in front of her, but he had almost immediately laughed at the very idea. He wanted everything to be absolutely perfect when he proposed, and that meant not rushing into it, no matter how eager he was.

“Whatcha got there?” Paul’s voice from the doorway made him look up and take notice of his surroundings for the first time. The screen door squeaked as it opened, and Paul stepped out onto the porch, breathing in deeply. “The girls decided to take a quick run into town… after Alex made Monica drink down a really disgusting looking hangover remedy.”

Andrew chuckled. “Yes, this will definitely be her last hangover.” He sat down on the swing at the end of the porch and watched as Paul, eyeing him suspiciously, took a seat in his favorite rocking chair.

“You were gone quite a while,” Paul said, rather pointedly as he looked at Andrew’s clenched fist.

The angel’s eyes drifted to the hand that held Monica’s ring and he smiled at the fact that he already thought of it that way. “Well it’s funny you should mention that,” he said, knowing that the curiosity was killing the agent. He had already planned to tell Paul, but now it was amusing to watch him trying to hold in both his protective instincts and his temper at the same time.

“Andrew,” Paul said warningly, “if I didn’t know better, I’d say that you were hiding something.”

Laughing out loud, Andrew opened up his hand, revealing the black velvet box and watching as Paul’s eyes grew to roughly the size of saucers and then clouded over. He drew his eyebrows together, slightly confused at his friend’s expression.

“That had better not be what I think it is,” Paul said lowly.

“It’s a ring,” Andrew said simply. “For Monica.”

“That’s what I thought it was,” Paul stood up and paced to the edge of the porch. “Andrew, what are you thinking? It’s much too soon for something like that? And marriage? Can you even do that? I mean, I know the Big Guy is on board with you two dating and all, but marriage?”

The angel’s eyes sparkled with humor and he laughed. “Paul, I just went for a walk in the woods and came back with a diamond ring. Just who do you think gave it to me?”

Somehow, Paul’s eyes managed to grow even larger. “He did?” he asked, pointing upwards as Andrew nodded.

“I wasn’t completely honest with you this morning, Paul. Something did happen last night, and let’s just leave it as Monica thinking that she somehow owed me something that I would never in a million years think to take from her without her full consent.”

“Andrew…”

“Nothing came of it, Paul, so you can unclench your fists any time now,” Andrew said with a slight shake of his head. Sometimes he tried to get angry at Paul for assuming the worst, but he knew it was only because the agent cared so much for Monica, and he certainly couldn’t fault him for that. “We talked, and everything is fine now, but it got me thinking. It got me thinking about the fact that I don’t ever want Monica to think that she has to do anything more than love me and that love will be returned for the rest of existence. She wanted to prove something to me last night, but now I want to prove something to her. I want to prove that our love is unending and that nothing can possibly change that. So I went to talk to God… to her Father… to ask him for permission to marry her. He gave me this ring as His answer.”

Andrew’s voice had taken on a tone of near awe, and Paul sat down on the porch railing and stared at him, smiling. “He gave you his blessing?” At the quick nod from Andrew, Paul was on his feet again and shaking his hand. “The more I think about it, the more right it seems. Congratulations, buddy.” He pulled on Andrew’s hand until their faces were close together. “Of course I will still kill you if you hurt her… but I have a feeling that Someone Else will be first in line,” he finished with a chuckle.

“Trust me, Paul, if I ever hurt her… I’ll be ahead of both of you.”

“So… when… how are you going to ask her?”

The angel let out a low laugh. “I haven’t quite got that worked out yet!” His eyes went suddenly serious. “But if you could kind of keep it from Alex…”

“Say no more! I love her with all my heart, but I think we’ve all seen how excited she can get about something like that,” he said with a wry grin. “She’d never be able to contain herself.”

Andrew leaned back, feeling completely content and at peace as he looked out over the fields. Paul followed his gaze but then went back to looking at his friend’s face. The angel’s expression told everything that was in his heart and soul, and he was surprised to feel a slight lump in his throat.

“You’re going to make her a wonderful husband, Andrew.” Green eyes turned to meet his, and he put his typically tough look firmly back in place.

“Coming from you, Paul, that means more than I can say.”
 

*****

The dinner preparation that night was a festive occasion, which left Alex suspicious and raised Monica’s spirits.  Alex had noticed in town that morning that the little angel’s mood was not yet up to par after what had occurred the night before as well as due to her own opinion of herself which was still leaning a bit to the negative side of the spectrum.  The agent had tried to coax the information from her on the ride home, but either Monica was not willing to talk or the emotions were so deep inside of her that the angel didn’t understand them enough to speak of them.

But upon arriving home, they found Andrew and Paul chopping vegetables, thawing steaks and roasting potatoes.  Where Andrew had not been beaming that morning, now to Alex he seemed downright radiant.  Even Paul was more relaxed than she had seen him weeks and she had cornered him at the first opportunity.

“You and Andrew are up to something, Gatlin, and you’d better start talking.”

Paul’s eyebrows shot up in amusement, though the fire in her blue eyes made him want to do anything other than talk, “I assure you, my dear, I have no idea what you are referring to.” He replied, though the twinkle in his eyes told another story.

“Paul…” Her tone bordered on dangerous.  Her husband had a secret and that knowledge alone was killing her.

“Sorry, sweetheart,” He raised his hands in mock defense, “But no can do.” He was enjoying getting her riled up finding her expression more cute than indignant.

Her eyes narrowed briefly, then softened as she whispered sweetly, “Tell me…or I’ll cut you off.”

He looked startled for a moment, before a look of resignation crossed his face.  Seeing her satisfied smile, he sighed, glanced around to make sure the angels were out of earshot, then leaned down and brought his lips to her ear.  His warm breath sent shivers down her spine as he whispered softly to her, “You wouldn’t last the night, baby.”

The look on her face was even worth the punch she delivered to his upper arm.

Monica didn’t seem as inept at seeing that there was a definate undercurrent as she helped with dinner, but she felt herself starting to relax a bit more.  At the smell of the steaks on the grill, she realized how hungry she was as her first and decidedly last hangover had left her with no appetite until the smoky smell of the grill drifted into the kitchen.

Andrew grinned, watching her steal a slice of cucumber from the salad bowl when she thought no one was looking and the simple gesture was endearing to him.  He was just beginning to see some occasional glimpses of her free spirit re-emerging and it warmed his heart.  The transition was slow, but now present and he was quite pleased.

Reaching into the cupboard, he pulled out a box of crackers and placed a handful in a napkin.  Coming up behind her, and putting his arm out in front of her, he offered them to her.

Monica blushed as she grinned shyly, “You caught me.”

“You’re hungry,” He replied simply, laying a kiss on her cheek, “And I’m glad you are feeling better.  Wine with dinner?” He was teasing, but chuckled at the way she crinkled up her nose in distaste.

“I don’t think a little hair of the dog is in order for her,” Alex grinned, coming in the back door with the plate on which she had carried out the steaks to her husband.

Andrew laughed, seeing Monica’s perplexed expression, “Hair of the dog that bit you, angel; more alcohol.”

“Oh.  No, definitely not,” She shook her head firmly, “That was a bad idea the whole way around.”

Something in her eyes flashed with pain before it vanished, making Andrew wonder if he had imagined it.  But a glance at Alex told him that she had seen it as well.

“I’m heading back out to assist as Paul can’t do anything by himself,” the agent announced cheerfully, wanting to give the new couple a few minutes to talk.  As she headed back out the door, she muttered under her breath, “Though he may get a refresher course on flying solo tonight.”

Catching the remark, Andrew managed to pretend to be oblivious and once Alex had slammed out the door once more, he took Monica’s hand and pulled her over to the counter.  She was looking at him questionably, but he didn’t say anything as his hands spanned her waist to lift her up to sit on the counter.  Satisfied that he could look directly into her dark eyes, he rested his hands on either side of her, “Something is still bothering you,” He observed softly and then waited patiently.  He knew she had doubts about things, but he couldn’t address them until they were voiced and though he planned on putting an end to most of her doubts very soon, he had to trust that she would remain as open as she had been of late.

Monica felt her cheeks flush as she worried her lower lip, a sure sign that she was nervous and she didn’t stop until Andrew laid a loving hand against her face and the tender gesture caused her to close her eyes, “Last night…you said it wasn’t the right time and it wasn’t, but…” there was a sudden tightness in her throat, “Was that the only reason why you didn’t want-.”

Andrew wanted to shout curses to William Grady hoping they would reach him in hell.  Everytime he thought he knew the extent of the damage the bastard had caused, he discovered something more, “Monica…”

“I just thought maybe that was why my not being able to do that was okay with you…because he…” She shrugged her shoulders, her fingers toying with the cracker filled napkin.  She was silently praying that he would deny it with everything in him.  Any other options made her heart ache.

“Listen to me,” He said sternly, resting his other hand on her shoulder as the other remained against her cheek, “If that was what you truly wanted, and I believed with my entire heart that you were ready, nothing…nothing would stop me from carrying you down the hall and making love to you all night long.  Do you hear me?  Nothing.”  He could tell his words had surprised her, but a moment later her eyes filled with a love for him so powerful it caused his heart to speed up a little more.

“Really?” She whispered, her eyes bright with tears despite the small smile that was beginning to appear.

“Really,” He replied, returning her smile, though his eyes remained completely serious for a moment longer, “Despite what you think, sweetheart, about yourself and about what that son of a bitch did to you, if the day comes that you are ready and we make love…it will be your first time.  There will be no pain,” He kissed her forehead gently, “No fear…” his lips brushed her other cheek and tiny shiver of pleasure ran through her, “The only thing you will feel is my love for you, angel.  That is my promise to you,” Moving his lips from her cheek, his hand moved to her chin as he kissed her softly.

As their lips parted, Monica laid the napkin down on the counter to wrap her arms around his neck, “I love you so much, Andrew…just so much.  I’m sorry I-.”

He pulled away and held a finger to her lips, “No apologies, baby.  I neither require nor need them.  What I do need is for you to keep talking to me about what you are feeling, as there is no reason for you to feel badly when I can do something to help you.  You worried all day today about something you were wrong about,” He grinned mischieveously at her, “Not that your offer last night wasn’t tempting, but it wouldn’t have been right for either of us.  If the time ever comes, you will know it to be right and because of that, I will know it is right.  Until then, I am quite happy holding you and loving you just as perfectly as I am right now.”

*****

The next week seemed to fly by much faster than Andrew expected as he carried the small velvet box everywhere, wondering if the perfect opportunity would present itself. When they drove an hour to the city to see the symphony he considered it, but then, despite how much Monica loved it, the situation just didn’t feel like the two of them. Then, when they were out to dinner in town, with the lights dim, and soft conversation drifting on the air it felt wonderful, but almost too ordinary. He wanted it to be perfect, and special. So when he left particularly early on Friday afternoon, he kissed her gently and smoothed the curious expression from her face with his fingertips.

“Just a few things I have to do before tonight, Monica,” he said as he kissed her again on the tip of her nose.

“Maybe I’ll finally finish my book while you’re gone,” she teased.

“You do that. And wear something long and comfortable tonight. I want you to be comfortable, and it feels like summer has really decided to take hold.”

“You’re always thinking of me,” she murmured as she gave him a quick hug.

“Of course I am, angel,” he said simply. “I love you.”

She watched him drive away and then went back into the house to grab her book. It was going to be a long afternoon without him, but she would try to curb her impatience. The afternoon heat actually led her to fall asleep on the sofa, book in hand, and when she woke up she was startled to discover that it was already six o’clock.

Flying into the bathroom she rushed through her shower and then dashed to her bedroom to get dressed. It seemed like only minutes later that there was a knock on the front door and the little angel hurried down the hall, only briefly looking at herself in the mirror as she passed. She was dressed in a long, flowing white dress with a v-neck and tiny buttons all the way down. It fit her perfectly, with laces up the back that accentuated her small frame. In the store, she had hesitated to buy it.

Somehow, seeing herself dressed in white no longer felt right, but Alex had insisted and now it was the only long summer dress she had. She knew it didn’t make any sense, and Andrew had already told her how wrong she was to think that way, but it was one thing to tell herself that, and quite another to fully believe it. She smoothed out an invisible wrinkle as she walked to the door, trying not to wonder about what Andrew would think when he saw her.

Hesitating just an instant, she opened the door and smiled at the sight of Andrew standing there, single dark red rose in hand. He was wearing simple tan khakis and a crisp white short-sleeved shirt that made him look even more boyishly handsome than usual. She stood, waiting for him to hand her the flower, but his eyes seemed fixated on her and she felt her face flush as she took a tiny step back.

Almost instantly he was reaching forward and pulling her close. “I’m sorry,” he whispered. “You just took my breath away.” He bent his head to capture her lips gently and then with slightly more passion, holding her close with one hand at the back of her head. When they finally pulled apart she was the one who was breathless and her eyes were shining like twin stars. “Are you ready to go?” he asked as he handed her the rose and took her hand.

She nodded wordlessly and he led her out of the house and down the path, but instead of stopping at the car, he continued around the back of the house and down the path to the barn.

“Where are we going?” she asked curiosity overwhelming her.

“You’ll see,” he replied mysteriously. They continued on to the barn and he sat her down on the bench outside, slipping through the door with a “Wait right here.”

He was only gone for a minute and Monica’s heart started to beat faster when the big door slid open and he walked out leading Scout. The horse was brushed to gleaming perfection, and his bridle was spotlessly clean. Instead of a saddle he had only a sparkling white bareback pad cinched around his middle. His ears were pricked forward alertly as if he knew that he was to be part of something important. Monica was on her feet and patting him affectionately as soon as he came to a halt in front of her.

“Okay,” Andrew said as he grasped her firmly around the waist. “Up you go.” He swung her up so that she was sitting side-saddle and she beamed down at him, waiting for him to join her. A second later he was behind her and she leaned into his chest, feeling safe and cherished as always.

They rode in comfortable silence through the fields and woods until they came to the clearing where Andrew had asked for God’s blessing. There, set in the center of a patch of wildflowers was a round table, covered with a lace cloth and topped with tall white candles and silver covered dishes.

“Andrew!” she gasped as he helped her down from Scout’s back, “how did you do all this!”

He chuckled as he took off Scout’s bridle and gave the horse a pat, letting him go free in the meadow. “Well a couple of restaurants are responsible for the food, but as for getting it out here… I had a little bit of help.” He glanced skyward and she grinned happily.

He pulled out her chair for her and then reached for the bottle that sat chilling in the freestanding icebucket. Monica was eyeing it somewhat warily but he leaned forward, his breath skimming across her ear.

“Non-alcoholic, angel, but it does taste nice.”

She giggled and he poured them both a glass before he sat down and raised his to her. No words were said, they just looked at each other and knew that they were both toasting to the perfect time they had been blessed with. Dinner was pleasant and peaceful, with Andrew serving everything from the wheeled cart beside the table. The day had been so hot that his choice of location had worked in his favor. All the food he had been forced to get was served cool or chilled, from the gazpacho to the grilled chicken salads, but it was perfect and refreshingly light. As the sun slipped below the tree-line and the stars became visible, the two angels breathed in the slightly cooler night air and listened to the soothing sounds of nature that were all around them.

He had just served desert of fresh berries and cream when he pulled out a large thermos. “You didn’t think I’d forget coffee, did you?” he asked, eyes shining in the candlelight.

“Of course not, you think of everything,” was her cheerful reply.

“Well, maybe not everything,” he said with a wink. “I just want to do whatever I can to make sure you know how much I appreciate you.” He reached over and brushed the back of her hand. “You’re such an incredible creature, Monica, and I don’t want you to forget that for a single second.”

She blushed and lowered her eyes, but then murmured, “You’re the incredible one, for making me feel so special all the time.”

He was beaming as she picked up her cup and took a sip, and then their conversation drifted again, back to Alex and Paul and the wonderful time that they had been having together.

“You’ve been having a good time these last weeks, haven’t you?” he said as he poured out her second cup of coffee. He was sneaking glances at her out of the corner of his eye and saw the surprise flood her face.

“Andrew, how can you even ask that? Even with everything that came before, this time with you has been the most special, the most precious of my existence. I just wish… I wish that what happened to me didn’t have to be what made us feel this way,” she finished with a little shrug, but her hand reached out to squeeze his tightly.

“I wish that too, angel, but trust me, these feelings that I have for you… I don’t think they would have stayed under wraps for very much longer no matter what happened.”

She smiled as he lifted her hand to his lips. “I kept searching for a reason, for something that made sense… for why it had to happen to me,” she said quietly, although for the first time there were no tears in her eyes as she spoke of it. “At first I thought it had to be to get him off the street… and then the trial…” she shook her head remembering and Andrew held her hand tighter. “When he died… it felt like there had been no reason for any of it… unless it was to lead to his death… and it felt so wrong to think that way.”

“Sweetheart, you couldn’t help feeling that way. I don’t think I will ever regret his death.”

“I know… but then… when I thought what I was feeling was so wrong… and dirty…” her eyes met with his, “I never felt so alone.” She took a breath and held his gaze. “And then we kissed… and it felt like coming home.”

“It felt like that for me too, angel. I had never wanted anything more.”

“And so now, when I think about all of it… when I think that this was all part of His plan… It doesn’t make the hurting go away, but it makes what I feel now that much sweeter.”

Andrew felt tears coming to his eyes and he didn’t know how he’d managed to let the situation go in this direction. He was the one who was supposed to make her cry! He kissed her hand again and then released it and stood up.

“Monica, everything you just said should make this easier for me, but I can’t help it if I’m a little nervous.”

Her expression was perplexed and she turned in her chair to face him. What was he talking about? It couldn’t be anything bad, but what? Or was this about them being reassigned? Had he been called away? A flurry of emotions passed across her face in the brief moments that it took Andrew to step forward and cup her cheek in his hand.

“I know that it hasn’t been that long since we first admitted how we felt, but Monica, we have known each other forever, and we could be together for eternity and I don’t think this would ever feel more right to me than it does at this moment.” He dropped down onto one knee, and clutched both her hands in his as she continued to look at him with wide eyes. “Angel, at first I thought that I wanted to do this in part to make you believe now and forever that you have nothing to fear when it comes to my love for you, but I realized that it had much more to do with my own selfishness. Monica,” he dropped one of her hands to reach down into his pocket, “I love you so much and with everything that I am I want to make you happy for the rest of existence. I want you to know and I want everyone to know that you are the most precious thing to me, and that now and forever we are joined, my heart and soul to yours.”

“Andrew?”

He lifted up his hand and revealed the open ring box, diamond glinting in the candlelight. “Monica, I am asking you if you would please, make me happier than I have ever been and agree to be my wife.”

The little angel was far beyond speechless. Never, never had she expected such words to ever come from his lips, and hearing them made her heart ache with its fullness. Tears welled in her eyes and escaped without her notice as she stared down at him, seeing the complete love in his eyes and the hopefulness that graced his features. She still couldn’t seem to speak around the emotions filling her throat, but she managed to nod, and when she saw a tear in Andrew’s eyes she let out a tiny, happy sob.

“Yes… yes, Andrew, I will be your wife, and I promise to make you as happy as you make me every day for the rest of forever.” The tears were still spilling from her eyes and her hand was trembling as Andrew took the beautiful ring and held it up for her inspection.

“There’s an inscription inside, angel,” he said as he slipped it onto her slender finger. “It says ‘eternity’.” He lifted her hand and kissed it tenderly. “and that’s how long I’ll love you, sweetheart.”

She fell forward into his arms then and he held her tighter than he ever had before as he drew her down onto his lap. They sat there, lost in a kiss and surrounded by nature and candlelight and bathed in their love for one another and the love that God held for both of them.

*****

The flames in the fireplace flickered with shades of orange, yellow and blue, their dance nearly mezmerizing as the smell of burning wood filled the living room.  It was getting late, but neither angel seemed ready to let go of the magic and blessings that had consumed this night and Andrew smiled from where he sat on the floor up against the couch with the little angel in his arms, leaning up against him.  She was watching the fire and the blissfully contented smile on her face told him all he needed to know.

Feeling his gaze, Monica tilted her head up to look at him, the tender look in his green eyes causing her heart to fill once more.  He could speak of how much he loved her without ever saying a word and she realized he made her feel something she didn’t think she would ever feel again.  Beautiful. 

She blinked back tears as she smiled up at him, “You told me that the Father gave you His blessing, but do you think Paul will?” Her eyes hinted at mischief and she felt his chest rumble with a chuckle.

“He already knows, angel, not that I asked his permission, but I did tell him,” He grinned remembering the conversation, “He was actually very pleased…once I assured him that God was in on it.  Had I not, I think he would have punched me.”

She giggled, bringing her head to rest beneath his chin once more, “He’s just protective of me, is all.”

“That is the understatement of the year, sweetheart,” Andrew pulled her closer, his folded hands coming to rest against her stomach, “But I’m thankful for that and certainly can’t fault him for it.  You seem to bring out that emotion in both of us,” He kissed the top of her head, wondering if she had any idea just how precious and innocent she was to inspire the emotions in both himself and in Paul.  He doubted it and just knowing that made him smile, “You will have the pleasure of telling Alex however, providing she has not tortured it out of Paul by now.”

A small gasp escaped her, “Is that why she was glaring at him all weekend last weekend?” Hearing him laugh she shook her head, “Poor Alex.”

“Poor Alex nothing!  If Paul would have told her, she would have found a way to hand you the ring as she would not have been able to wait for me to propose!”

They laughed together, both knowing it was probably true.  As they fell again into a comfortable silence, Monica turned in his arms, her dark eyes shining, “Tonight was perfect,” She whispered, reaching up to touch his face, “You’re perfect…and I love you so much.”

Taking her hand from his cheek, he kissed it softly, “So are you, angel, and I do believe you are starting to believe it.  Though none of us are truly perfect other than the Father, there could be no one else, in heaven or on earth who is more perfect for me than you,” The loving words were but a whisper as he pulled her close for a kiss that sealed them as the truth.

She closed her eyes as he stole her breath and she felt a flutter somewhere deep inside of her, a yearning she didn’t quite understand.  She only knew it was a pleasant feeling and she wrapped her arms around his neck, losing herself in the moment.

*****

“Oh my God!” Alex exclaimed for what had to be the tenth time that morning.  Her blue eyes were shining with excitement and happiness as she hugged Monica so hard that both Andew and Paul were concerned for the little angel’s safety, “This is such good news…no, not just good…amazing…incredible….Monica, there aren’t any words!” She pulled away to look into her friend’s eyes, loving the fact that they were dancing with happiness.  Walking over to Paul briefly, she slapped him on the arm, “I can’t believe you didn’t tell me, you shithead!” But she was back to her joyful rant before her husband could even react, “We have so much to do!  We have to find you a dress and pick out flowers!  Oh! And a cake, we can’t forget that.”

Monica was laughing, clearly enjoying the enthusiasm, “Alex, we haven’t even picked a date yet-.”

“What?  What are you waiting for? Christmas?  I don’t think so!” The agent moved to grab the wall calendar from the wall, dragging the little angel along with her to the table, “You don’t have any plans, right?”

Paul looked over at Andrew and couldn’t help but smile at the expression on the blond angel’s face.  He was watching Monica as she talked excitedly with his wife, seeming to note every little animated gesture, every girlish giggle and the happiness in Monica’s eyes caused a lump to rise to his throat as well.  At one time, he had thought he would never see such joy in her face again.  Clearing his throat, he gestured to his wife, “Now we both fully understand the implications had I told her ahead of time.”

Andrew laughed and nodded his head in agreement, though his eyes never left his fiancee and he smiled at being able to think of her that way.  But she was and he considered himself the luckiest guy on earth or in heaven.

“We’ll do it here, unless you have something else in mind,” Alex continued to chirp happily as she mused over the calendar, “And Paul and I will need the whole week before off work so we can get everything ready, “She quieted for a moment as her eyes met with Monica’s once more and her voice dropped to a tearful whisper, “You look so happy, honey.  You’re going to be a beautiful bride.”

Monica blinked back tears of her own as she felt Alex squeeze her hand, “I am happy and still a wee bit in awe of all of this,” She laughed softly, “I would have never imagined being able to sit here and plan my wedding.”

“Wedding?”

The sound of Tess’ voice caused all heads to turn in her direction and Paul and Andrew exchanged a quick look of concern.  The expression on the older angel’s face was not entirely happy, but unfortunately, Monica seemed oblivious to that fact.

“Tess,” She smiled, feeling like everything was perfect now that her supervisor had returned.  Getting up, she approached her and hugged her tightly, her own joy causing her not to notice the stiffness with which the hug was returned, “Andrew proposed,” She explained as she pulled away to show her the heart-shaped diamond on her finger, “Isn’t it beautiful?”

Tess’ eyes fell to the ring, then she looked back at Monica and then threw a hard look to Andrew, “Yes, Angel Girl, lovely, but I think a couple of angels have taken things to extremes in my absence.”

Andrew felt the first traces of anger as he watched Monica’s face fall and her eyes widened fearfully, as if she was afraid Tess was suddenly going to snatch everything away from her, “Tess…” He began, his voice holding just a touch of warning.

“That’s a good start, Andrew, now keep going,” She replied sternly, crossing her arms in front of her as she looked at him, clearly demanding explaination.

“I thought…I thought you’d be happy, Tess,” Monica’s voice was soft and bordering on something akin to grief as she looked up into her eyes.

Tess’ expression softened slightly, “It’s not that, baby and under normal circumstances I would be, providing God had given you both His blessing-.”

“But-”

“But these are not normal circumstances in light of everything you’ve been through the last few months.  You’re not ready for this, Angel Girl.  You’re still healing and where this may seem like the answer, it is far too soon.”

“Tess, I really think you need to listen for a minute,” Paul interjected, not missing the look in Monica’s eyes after the older angel’s statement.  There were tears just beneath the surface and he cursed under his breath at seeing them beginning to emerge.

“I am healing,” she argued weakly, her voice trembling slightly, “And Andrew-.”

“I know you are, baby and I could not be more pleased about that,” She sighed, watching as a tear slid down her charge’s cheek, “But you both need to think about what you are doing and Andrew needs to make certain that this is the best thing for you right now.”

“We have,” Monica insisted, her voice catching in a sob, “and it is the best thing…I love him…I thought you understood that.  You’re supposed to be happy for us, but that must be too much to ask.”

“Monica,” Tess tried to stop her, but the little angel had already turned to walk quickly out of the kitchen and down the hall to her room.  She felt terrible and the glare that Andrew shot at her before he turned to follow Monica didn’t help much.

“Tactful as ever, huh Tess?” Paul couldn’t resist the bitter remark.

“I never meant to upset her, Paul, but it is too soon for Monica to have any idea of what she is doing-.”

“You’ve been away, so how could you possibly know?” Alex remarked, managing to keep her anger quiet, “I know you love her, that you love them both, but you don’t always know what is best.”

“I know that angel baby, Alex and-.”

“Maybe so, but what you didn’t know is that God gave Andrew His blessing.  He gave Andrew the ring!  So between you and the Almighty, who do you think knows more what is best for her?” Her blue eyes were challenging, “She is healing, Tess, and Andrew has been instrumental in that happening for her.  He loves her so much and did even when she couldn’t love herself, but he has made her see that she is not worthless like Grady made her feel.  Tess, she is truly, truly happy.  Didn’t you see the look on her face when you got here?”

*****

Andrew opened the bedroom door and saw Monica sitting on the edge of her bed, staring out the window. Her shoulders were slumped and even from behind he could see how defeated she looked. He was surprised by how upset he suddenly felt at Tess, but he pushed that feeling aside as he crossed to the little angel’s side and sat down next to her.

“Are you all right, sweetheart?” he asked, resting a gentle hand on her leg.

Her head moved up and down but it was another minute before she spoke. “I know she’s not right, but it still hurts,” she was twisting her ring nervously around her finger as she spoke. “I thought she would be happy for us.” She paused before turning to look at Andrew and then quickly looking out the window again. “She’s not right, is she? She didn’t make you change your mind, did she?”

The comforting arm around her shoulders answered her question before his words did. “Monica, of course she isn’t right.” He stilled her anxious fingers and brushed his thumb over her ring. “That ring was given to me by God, with his blessing.” He lifted his hand to her face and tilted it so that he could see her dark eyes. “And nothing in Heaven or on Earth could make me change my mind about marrying you. It’s the best decision I ever made, and I don’t want you to forget that.” He leaned in and placed a soft kiss on her lips, tongue lightly brushing over them as she sighed and relaxed into his arms.

A knock on the door stopped them mid-kiss, and they both looked up as Tess slowly opened it and stood in the doorway.

“Do you mind if I come in?” she asked, looking much less indignant and much more apologetic.

“Of course not, Tess,” Monica answered, although Andrew was feeling slightly less generous after seeing the devastated look on his fiancée’s face just minutes earlier.

She could see the barely hidden irritation in her Angel Boy’s face and quickly pulled the chair closer to them and sat down. “Monica, you know I’m not very good at admitting when I’m wrong, but out there in the living room… that was completely wrong of me. I jumped all over you, and Andrew too without even knowing the facts.”

“I tried to tell you,” Monica said softly, still a bit shaken by her supervisor’s reaction. Andrew saw that she had started playing with her ring again, and he quickly covered her hand with his own.

The older angel did not miss that tender move and her eyes grew even more remorseful. “I know you did, and I didn’t even give you a chance.”

“You shouldn’t have had to,” Andrew broke in. “You should have just trusted us.”

“You’re absolutely right, Andrew,” Tess replied. “I guess I don’t have any good excuse except that you and Paul haven’t exactly cornered the market when it comes to protectiveness.” She looked at Monica and smiled. “You know, you and I go back a long ways, and I still remember your very first assignment as a caseworker.” Monica smiled back as she thought about those early days. “Ever since that time, you know I’ve always been kind of tough on you, but I’ve also never hid the fact that I love you. You’re my little Angel Girl, and I just want you to be happy.”

Monica reached out to take Tess’ hand and squeeze it tight. “I am happy, Tess. Happier than I ever thought I could be.”

“And that is all that matters to me. I love you both and if you bring one another joy then I couldn’t ask for anything more.”

Andrew’s face had softened as he listened to Tess. It was easy to see the love that the older angel held for Monica, and as he watched her he thought about how Monica was practically a daughter to her. Certainly it wasn’t surprising that she would be a bit hesitant at being surprised with the news that they were suddenly engaged.

“So everything’s all right now?” Monica asked with child-like hopefulness.

“Right as rain, baby,” Tess laughed. “Now let me get a look at that ring of yours. All I could see in the living room was how much it sparkled.”

*****

As soon as the three angels walked back into the kitchen, Alex and Paul dropped what they were doing to size up the situation and see if everything was back to normal. Their twin sighs of relief were almost visible as they saw Tess with her arms linked through Andrew’s and Monica’s

“Well, now that that’s over with,” Alex said with a little grin, “let’s get back to what we were talking about.” She grabbed onto Monica’s hand and quickly led her and Tess back to the table where she had two of her old bridal magazines open to different dress pictures.

Paul chuckled as he rolled his eyes and moved to Andrew’s side. “C’mon, buddy. This could take a while and I think you and I are better off down with the horses.”

After the newness of the situation wore off, Alex quickly realized that a big wedding was not exactly going to work for the two angels. However, there was still plenty of planning to think about, and the way Monica’s eyes were lit up was reason enough to want everything to be perfect. Half the fun was in the thinking and planning anyway, and Monica was definitely enjoying that.

By the time dinner rolled around, the little angel’s head was spinning with ideas from dresses to flowers, but one thing in particular was stuck in her mind. It was a lovely warm evening and Andrew invited Tess to take a short walk down to the barn after getting a not so subtle hint from Monica. Alex had run to the store to pick up coffee after realizing in a panic that they had completely run out. That left Monica and Paul sitting on the porch swing, looking out over the fields and woods.

“So, is she running you ragged yet?” Paul teased, knowing how excited Alex could get about things.

“Not yet,” Monica replied with a smile. “Actually, it shouldn’t be that bad. It isn’t like we’ll be inviting hundreds of guests,” she giggled, the sound carrying into the air like sparks from a fire.

“That’s true enough, but that doesn’t make it any less special. As a matter of fact, it will be the very first angel wedding I’ve ever attended.” He nodded solemnly and the little angel elbowed him in the ribs. “Oooh… I see Alex has been teaching you a few things,” he commented after he stopped laughing.

“Just a few.”

He chuckled softly and then moved to wrap an arm around her shoulders, “You know that I have given Andrew a hard time where you are concerned and at times I’m sure you think that I am a little over the top in wanting to protect you, even from the one angel who would rather lose his arm then hurt you.  But I’ve been watching the two of you the last few weekends and if I had to chose someone for you, I could pick no better individual than Andrew,” He smiled, watching how happy tears came to her eyes, “To say that he loves you is an understatement and I know that the good care he takes of you will live up to my expectations.”

Monica laughed and nodded her head, “And I know those are some pretty high standards,” She smiled, gazing up at him as her expression became more serious, “I want to thank you for everything the last few months.  For opening your home to me and for being there for me.  It means more than you could possibly know, Paul.”

“There isn’t anything I wouldn’t do for you, honey, and there is no need to thank me. Just seeing you smile and hearing your laugh again is thanks enough for Alex and I,” His tone was sincere as he squeezed her gently, “I’m just so damn thankful that God directed Tess and Andrew here that night.”

“Me too,” She drew in a slightly nervous breath as she turned a bit on the swing to face him once more, “There’s something I need to ask you…”

“Anything.  You know that.”

“I really had two options for this; either you or Tess and the more I think about it, it has to be you, Paul,” She saw the curious look in his eyes and she tried to find the right words, “Though God will be present, He won’t be able to do it and well…other than Tess and Andrew…you’re my family…you and Alex.  You’re so special to me, Paul and I just wanted to know if you would do me the honor of giving me away.”

His breath caught in his throat at her hopeful request and he wasn’t surprise to feel a sudden moisture in his eyes.  Smiling, he laid a hand against her face, “You’re pretty damn special to me too, sweetheart, but that goes without saying.  I would be honored to be given that privilege.”

Her face broke out into a smile that warmed his heart as she threw her arms around him, “Thank you, Paul.  Thank you.”

He hugged her tightly, completely touched by her request, “I love you, little angel and I just want you to be happy.”

“I am, Paul,” She whispered, moving to kiss his cheek lightly, “And now everything feels even more perfect than it did before though I wasn’t sure that was even possible.”

He chuckled softly as he pulled away and gave her a crooked grin, “We’ve come a long way.  It wasn’t so long ago that I was the one in love with you, if you remember.”

She giggled, shaking her head, “I remember, but everything has turned out just the way God wanted it to.”

“Agreed,” He replied lightly, before glancing over at her once more, “I know that I will be handing you over to Andrew soon, but I just want to remind you that if you ever need anything, that I’m always here for you.”

She smiled tearfully as she leaned into him once more, “That’s good to know.”

******

By the following weekend, nearly everything had already fallen into place and all that was left was for Monica to find was her dress.  She and Alex had chosen flowers and a cake, though the little angel made it a point to keep things simple.  She had never really enjoyed things that were elaborate, but had loved simple beauty and had stuck to that in her selections.

She had been putting the dress off as it was still a source of contention for her, though so far she had kept it to herself, but today she and Alex had a shopping trip to the city planned and they had even persuaded Andrew and Paul to come along using lunch as the bait.  Alex had no intention of letting Andrew anywhere near the bridal shops, but he had assured her he had some shopping of his own to do.

Monica awoke that morning early, just as the sun was starting to rise in the sky and she sighed contently.  Andrew had tugged her up against his chest during the night and now his arm was stretched across her midsection and this time, she could enjoy the feeling of complete safety she felt at being held close to him, even in sleep.

She rolled over carefully, not wanting to wake him and a soft smile crossed her face as she drank in all his features with her eyes, her heart swelling with love all over again.  Unable to help herself, she inched over just enough to brush his lips with her own, her heartbeat speeding up as she watched a sleepy smile cross his face.

“If I keep pretending to be asleep, will you do that again?” He grinned, though his eyes remained closed, causing a giggle to escape her.  He was still cherishing the sound when he felt her kiss him once more and this time, he gently pulled her onto his chest and deepened the kiss, though he remained alert enough to make sure she wasn’t feeling any discomfort with the position.  He felt her instantly relaxing against him and he moved his hands to stroke through her mane of auburn hair.

She responded to him hungrily, shivers flowing through her body and once again she felt a stirring deep inside of her that caused her heart to race in a pleasant way.  This time it didn’t startle her and though she didn’t understand it completely, she accepted it as just being a part of the love she felt for him.

“Good morning, beautiful,” He said softly once their lips had parted and they had both caught their breath.

“Good morning,” Monica smiled at him before laying her head beneath his chin, hearing the sound of the heartbeat that mirrored her own.

“All ready for your shopping excursion today?” He asked her lightly, his fingers still continuing to run through her hair.

“I think so,” She replied, though he could sense the uncertainty in her voice.

“What is it, angel?” He whispered to her.

Her hand brushed over his tshirt nervously until he caught it in his own and held it tightly, “I’m still a little unsure about…color.  White is supposed to indicate purity and I’m not really that anymore.”

He frowned, wanting to put an end to this once and for all and praying for the right words.  He brought her hand to his lips and kissed it tenderly, “Sweetheart, you are completely pure in God’s eyes and in mine and nothing changes that.  Your innocence and your inner beauty is every bit as prevelent as it ever was and are just a few of the things I love so much about you.”

She held his hand tightly for a moment, considering his words, “I’ve never loved anyone before the way I love you.”

“And you said yourself that what we share feels perfect,” He observed, a smile playing on his lips.

She looked up at him, a grin and peace on her face, “It does.  Every single day.”

“Angel,” He said softly, touching her face with his fingertips, “You would steal my breath away in whatever you chose to wear on the day we get married, even if it was Alex’s red flannel shirt.  I know what I’m truly getting and that is the most perfect and purest little angel that God ever created.”

She blinked back tears as she kissed him softly, “I love you and I’ll probably tell you that fifty times today, but it still won’t be enough.”

“Monica, you tell me that every second in one way or another and I never get tired of hearing it.  I love you and everything about you and that is all you ever need to know.”