2 comments/ 17792 views/ 1 favorites And His Heart Melted By: TomKat212 A word of warning before you proceed any further. These pages contain works of fiction, the religious nature of which may be offensive to some readers. Please use this site responsibly. By proceeding further you affirm that you are at least 18 years of age, and that the viewing of such material does not violate the immoral standards of your community. * * * * * And His Heart Melted Part I 1 — The Idea "John?" "Yes, Angie?" "You're a virgin, aren't you?" "Yes–yes I am." They were sitting in the break room of the supermarket where they worked. "How can you stand it? You're what–23?" John Morris nodded yes. "I'm only 19, and guys are on me all the time–I'm so sick of it! I want to stay a virgin till I marry, but sometimes I really want to just go ahead and give in to them." "No," John said. "Don't do that. You'll meet the right guy someday." "But I've just started college!" Angie Potter explained. "I don't plan on marrying till after graduate school!" "I know it's tough, Angie. I went through it–am going through it–myself. I don't go out much, but I still have the same pressures." He paused. "I . . . I sometime wish I could get married temporarily, so I could have sex morally for a few years, then get divorced if one of us met someone we really loved." He stopped to read her expression. Unsure, he said, "Uh, I guess you probably didn't want to hear that." "Well," Angie said, "I know it's hard for you–us–being Christians and wanting to stay pure till we marry. It's an interesting idea, but I doubt anyone would ever go along with it." "Oops!" John exclaimed, looking at his watch. "Break's over! I'm five minutes late! Got to go!" With that he fled the room. I've just blown it, he thought. Now she thinks I'm some kind a pervert! I'll never have a chance to ask her out now! He had known her for about a year, but, being shy, had never had the courage to ask her out. Besides, she always seems to be dating some dumb jock! he thought. 2 — Acceptance About eight months later, in April, John was sitting alone in that same break room. Angie stormed in, crying. "What's wrong?" "Guys! They're all a bunch of jerks!" "I agree." "Oh, I don't mean you, John," she said with a smile, the one that always melted his heart. He swallowed. "Well, most guys are." She smiled again. "Could you call me tonight?" "Sure." This time, he smiled. And His Heart Melted Part 2 A word of warning before you proceed any further. These pages contain works of fiction, the religious nature of which may be offensive to some readers. Please use this site responsibly. By proceeding further you affirm that you are at least 18 years of age, and that the viewing of such material does not violate the immoral standards of your community. * * * * * 8 - Disaster By July, it became apparent that Darren would soon propose to Angie. However, Angie was having second thoughts. In her mind, she was constantly comparing Darren to John, and finding that Darren fell short. She tried to make sure she wasn't judging Darren unfairly, but the doubts were still there. She talked to John about the fact that she had doubts, but she couldn't really express what she felt. Also, Darren had been pressing her to quit college. John suppressed his own feelings, trying to be objective, but also praying with Angie about the matter. He did not like Darren personally, and felt that she would be making a mistake to marry him. But John stressed that he would support Angie no matter what decision she made. In mid-July, Darren asked Angie out for a Friday night date, saying he had something special planned. He took her to a very nice restaurant, and after dinner he proposed to her. She said no, and he was furious. Darren yelled, "What are you trying to do to me? I've been patient, and waited to marry you to make love to you. I loved you, and this is how you repay me?" Angie was in tears. Darren stormed out of the restaurant, leaving the bill unpaid. She heard his pick-up speed out of the parking lot. The servers calmed her down a little, and asked her what they could do for her. Angie asked to use a phone. It was after midnight when Angie called John. She started crying again, so the restaurant manager took the phone. She told John briefly what had happened, and gave him directions. John drove to the restaurant, went inside, and spoke with the manager. John then took Angie out to his car. He put her in the front passenger seat, buckled her in, and went around to his side of the car. By the time he got in, Angie had unbuckled the belt, lifted up the armrest that he always used, and scooted over to the middle of the bench seat. He helped her to buckle in again, and began the drive to her apartment. She leaned on his shoulder as he drove. He put his arm around her, and held her close. She cried softly until she fell into a light sleep. Arriving at Angie's apartment, John gently woke her up, and walked her to her door. He got her keys out of her purse, opened the door, and took her inside. He stopped a moment to close the door. John led Angie to the bedroom, and helped her to undress, leaving her in her underwear. He went to her dresser, opened a drawer, and took out one of the oversized T-shirts in which she liked to sleep. He helped her put on the shirt, trying not to notice that she had taken off her bra, then she climbed into her bed. John tucked her in, leaned over and gave her a quick kiss on the forehead, and started to leave. Angie reached out and grabbed his arm, stopping him. "John?" Angie asked softly. "Yes, Angie?" John said as he sat on the edge of her bed. "Please stay with me," Angie pleaded, caressing John's hand.. "I don't want to be alone tonight. I just need to have a friend here, Okay?" "Sure. Just let me freshen up a bit." John returned to Angie's dresser, and took out a T-shirt for himself. He then went to her bathroom, and took off his sweaty shirt. He washed his face and torso, and put on the T-shirt. It was pink, with bunnies on the front. He kept his jeans shorts on. As he came back into the room, she saw him in the shirt and giggled girlishly. "Oh be quiet!" John joked as he lay down on top of the covers. Angie snuggled up against him, pulled his arms around her, and quickly fell asleep. John lay there quietly for a long time, just holding Angie tight. He thought about her a lot before going to sleep. About how he had been in love with her for so long. About how he was learning to love her more in his actions, in how he treated her. About how he had grown to love her more in his heart. About how this might be the last time he ever got to hold her. And John prayed to God, asking for help and strength. Finally, John slept. 9 - Aftermath John awoke that morning to find that the bedspread had been placed over him. As he sat up, he smelled something cooking. He checked his watch, and saw that it was 10:30. John got out of bed, and noticed his T-shirt lying on top of Angie's dresser. It was clean. He stumbled through the kitchen on his way to the bathroom, his clean shirt in hand. "Good morning, sleepy head." Angie called teasingly. "Mornin'," John muttered as he closed the door behind him, hearing her giggle. He came out after taking a quick shower, and saw that she had breakfast on the table. "Feeling better now?" Angie asked. "I will after I've eaten." "This is all mine! You'll have to cook your own," Angie teased again. "Well, I guess you're feeling better too." Angie looked over at him as he sat down at the table, and smiled softly. "Yes I am," she said. "Thanks to you." "What did I do?" "You got out of bed at midnight on a night when you were very tired, and you really needed the sleep, just for me. And you have never, ever taken advantage of me, not even last night." "Well, one could say this 'temporary marriage' scheme of mine was taking advantage of you." "You're overanalyzing things again, John. In fact, I was probably the one taking advantage of you in this whole thing. I wasn't very fair to you at all, stringing you along while I dated that JERK." With that she started crying again. Angie told John all about what had happened the previous evening with Darren. "Well, I'm glad that you called me." "Me too." Angie smiled at John again, and his heart melted. By this time they had finished eating, so John began helping Angie clear the table. "You don't have to do that, y'know," Angie said. "I know," John replied, "but you didn't have to wash my shirt. "Sure I did-it was stinking up my bathroom!" Angie teased. John snorted his response. But just as Angie stuck out her tongue, John's beeper went off. It was his boss's number. He asked to use the phone, and called the number. His boss wanted him to come in to work to help out with a problem on with a corporate client's computer system. As John hung up, he noticed Angie's downcast expression. She had heard enough to know what he had to do. "Do you want to come with me?" John asked. "There won't be anyone else there. Also, there's a Christian concert in my town tonight. I'd like to take you to it, if that's okay?" Angie smiled broadly. "I'd love to go. Do I have time to get something to wear tonight?" "Sure. Hurry." Twenty minutes later, Angie was ready. And it didn't bother John that she had taken that long. He was just happy to be with her at all, and intended to enjoy whatever time they had together to the fullest. He carried her make-up kit and some other things to her car, while she brought out a couple of outfits. Evidently she hasn't decided what to wear yet tonight, he surmised. John had suggested that they take Angie's car. She agreed; she usually let him drive, and he liked her sports coupe a lot better than his sedan, especially on the highway. 10 - A Good Day, A Wonderful Evening The job took several hours, but in that time John and Angie were able to talk and cut up the way they liked to do. Afterwards, they went to John's apartment to shower and change clothes. Angie showered first. When John was finished with his shower, he went into the bedroom, and saw Angie sitting on a chair in front of his mirror, preparing her hair. She was wearing only a black lace bra and matching panties. "Wow!" John exclaimed. "I haven't seen you like this in such a long time." "What do you mean? You undressed me last night! Don't tell me you had your eyes closed!" Angie giggled. "I thought you looked beautiful then too. But you weren't smiling like you are now." Angie got up, went over to John, and kissed him lightly on the lips, then hurried back to the chair. "I hate to stop now, but we'll have to hurry or we'll be too late to get dinner before the concert. And I'm starving!" she said. John shook his head, as if confused a little, and went to his closet to finish getting dressed. Through the mirror, Angie caught John stealing a few glances at her, though he seemed to be trying not to stare. Not that would I mind, she thought. When John was through getting dressed, he went into the living room to see what the Braves were doing on TV while waiting for Angie to finish. Several minutes later, Angie called to John from the doorway to the bedroom. "I'm ready." John turned, and fought to keep his jaw from dropping. He lost. Angie looked so beautiful. She had on a short black dress that seemed tailor-made for her petite, toned body. But he couldn't decide what looked better: her never-ending expanse of leg, or her tantalizing cleavage that peaked out from the low-cut neckline of the dress. Her brown hair framed her cute face. But it was her smile that truly enthralled him. John swallowed hard. "Are you sure you should wear that? I've never seen you wear something that . . . revealing . . . in public before." Then he added, "Unless it was on a beach." "You don't like it?" Angie whimpered. "I love it," John said, "but I'm not so sure you should go out like that." "Oh, I have a top that covers up most of this," Angie said, placing her right hand over her breasts. "But I wanted to give you a preview, to see your reaction first. It was worth it," she giggled. John's heart melted. There was that smile again. "But your thighs are still showing," he said, when she had returned after putting on the outfit's top. "And we're going to a Christian concert, remember?" "Humor me, please?" she asked. "I just want to enjoy myself. For a change." "You really weren't happy with Darren, were you?" John inquired. "No, I wasn't," Angie admitted. "Besides, if I had ever gone out with Darren dressed like this, he wouldn't have been able to control himself," she said playfully. "I can't imagine why," John teased back. They went out to her car. John was so proud to be with Angie at dinner, and at the concert. She turned heads everywhere. Especially his. * * * Not long after the concert had started, Angie held John's hand, and leaned on his shoulder. After several minutes, he put his arm around her; she snuggled even closer to his body. After about forty minutes, Angie whispered, "John, I just realized something." "What?" John queried softly. "Who paid for the dinner?" "Tonight?? I did. You were there when I-" "No," Angie interrupted, "I mean last night. Darren left before we had finished, and I didn't pay for it." Someone behind them made a shushing sound, so John stood up, and led Angie out of the auditorium into a hallway. They found a stairwell, and sat down on one of the lower steps, holding hands all along. "I paid the bill," John said. "The manager told me that Darren left without paying, and that you had said you didn't have any money or cards with you." "That was very sweet of you. I'll pay you back." She kissed him lightly on the lips, and then fully. Her arms encircled his waist, while his reached for her shoulders and neck. They heard people approaching, so they stood up quickly. "Let's go home," Angie said softly. John's eyebrows rose slightly at her last word. They walked out of the building, still hand in hand. When they had reached her car, Angie took her cover-up off, and handed it to John; the humidity was stifling. She insisted on driving; it was her car, after all. John opened the driver's door for her, then got in on the other side. Angie drove straight to John's apartment, taking only five minutes, and they held hands all the way home. The only bad thing about the coupe right then was the console between the front passenger seats. Angie would have rather snuggled up against John. As it was, John found it hard to keep his eyes off of Angie's breasts, even in the dim light. He had done his best not to gawk at her in public, and had succeeded. But now, in the car alone, he found it hard to control himself. Well, she is still my wife, he thought. And at least I'm not driving! As soon as they'd walked inside his apartment and closed the door, Angie started to take her clothes off. "What are you doing?" he asked. "Undressing." Angie came over to John, turned her back to him, and motioned for him to unzip her. He complied. "I saw what you were staring at in the car," she said playfully. "Well, what did you expect, dressing like that??" John asked embarrassedly. "I expected you to be all over me, silly boy," Angie replied with a grin. "But you were driving!" he exclaimed, more than a little surprised at her reaction. "I can drive and be fondled at the same time, y'know?" Angie said as she entered the bedroom, and let her dress fall to the floor. "Really? When did you discover that?" John finally began to realize what was happening. "It wasn't with Darren!" "I believe you. He would have never let you drive!" John teased. Angie threw her bra at John, but he was too busy undressing himself to catch it. She went to him and kissed him. Hard. As Angie led John into the bedroom, he stopped to set the alarm clock. By the time he had finished, she was lying naked on his bed, waiting for him. He hurried to join his wife. 11 - Questions John's alarm went off nine A.M. Sunday. He had intended to get up at eight, but his attention had been elsewhere while he had been setting the clock. As it was, they had needed the extra hour of sleep anyway. Their slumber now interrupted, they rolled apart. John rose and went to the bathroom. As he was getting dressed, Angie got up and started getting ready also. When it was time to go, John called to Angie. Angie came out wearing a dress that hid a lot more of her body than the one she had worn the night before. She still looked beautiful to John, maybe even more so. They went outside to the car, John let Angie in the passenger side, and then got in himself. "Whose church are we going to?" John asked cautiously. Angie looked at her watch. "Your church is a lot closer; let's go there. Besides, I'm anxious to hear your pastor preach." "Okay." John drove out of the parking lot, and headed toward his church. "Angie, about last night-I don't really know what to say, other than to thank you for a wonderful evening." "You're welcome, John. I enjoyed myself too." "What does this mean concerning our Agreement?" "I don't know yet. We'll figure it out, I promise, but please give me some time." Angie reached out and took John's right hand. She held it, and squeezed it affectionately. When they arrived at his church, they were much too late for Sunday School. They slipped in and sat near the back just as the worship service was starting. The pastor's message was a continuation of his series on Ephesians. He briefly summarized his previous sermons on the Husband and Wife. Angie heard what the Bible said on the role of a wife, and also what the preacher had said on the husband loving his wife unconditionally. That reminded her so much of how John had been treating her lately. Her heart was convicted. After the service was over, John led Angie over to meet some of the church members, introducing her as his friend. But when they met the pastor, Angie quickly interrupted John's introduction and said, "I'm his wife. We've been separated for a while. But after what you said this morning, we have a lot to think about. Thank you." John was stunned. The pastor thanked Angie for her comments, and said he would be praying for them. John and Angie left the building, and they headed to her car. John asked quietly, "Uh, Angie? Are you sure you should have told Pastor Williams we're married?" "Yes, John, I'm sure," Angie responded. "He really helped me to see what true love really is, and that I didn't have that with Darren. And I wanted him to pray for me-us." "Okay," John said. They got into the car. As John started the engine, Angie said, "Let's stay at your place this afternoon. We can get our things, and go to my place tonight after church, if you want." John was a little surprised, but tried not to show it. "Sure, I'd like that." "Great," she said. As John drove, Angie held his right hand, leaning on his shoulder as best she could. The coupe's console was getting in her way again. "I really did have a good time with you last night, y'know," John said. "The whole day, actually." "But especially making love?" she inquired. He chuckled. "You know me too well." "Yes, I do," Angie replied with a sly smile. "I won't lie and say I didn't enjoy that," John continued, "but, really, I just like being with you, y'know? You are my best friend. I can't talk to anyone else the way I talk to you." "I feel the same way," Angie said. "But, I assume you wouldn't be opposed to more tonight?" John glanced at her and smiled broadly. He didn't need to ask "more what?" "We'll need to get some protection first, 'cause I'm off the pill. I went off of it after we broke up, 'cause I figured I wouldn't need it." "Really?" "Yeah, I didn't really like being on it." "Why didn't you tell me?" John asked. "That I was off of it?" "That too, but I meant your not liking it. We could have tried something else, y'know." "It wasn't that bad, so I didn't worry about it." "Look, I want to know those things. I don't want you to suffer needlessly, you understand?" "Yes. Thanks." "Okay, there's a pharmacy near my apartment. I'll run in and get something." * * * At 7:30 the next day, Monday morning, Angie's alarm clock went off. She reluctantly untangled her body from John's, and slipped out of bed. John groaned as she got out, and she realized he was waking up. Slowly, of course. John Morris hardly ever woke up quick­ly. After a trip to the bathroom, Angie set out some milk and cereal, then returned to the bedroom to attempt to wake up John. "Honey," Angie said softly. "It's time to get up." "I don't want to get up," John whined. "Can't you come back to bed?" "No. I have to go to work. And so do you. We'll have plenty of time together tonight, and the next night, and the next . . ." Angie gave him a quick kiss, and left the room. "Come on, John, get up," she called back. "I'm your wife, not your mother!" "Praise the Lord for that," John muttered as Angie left the room. She pretended not to hear him. John went to the bathroom to freshen up, then came into the kitchen. "Where are we going to stay tonight? Here, or at my place?" he asked. "I was thinking you could stay here for a few more days, then we could go to your place for the weekend," Angie answered. At this point, John really wanted to know how long this was going to last, but he was afraid of what she might say if he pressured her. So he left the question unasked. "Sounds good to me," John replied. * * * That night, they took John's sedan, and went out to dinner. Angie took advantage of the car's bench seat, and snuggled up against John. * * * Late Tuesday morning, John called Angie at her workplace. "Angie, I found out today that I have to go to [Calhoun] tomorrow to work on a client's computer system. Which means I have to leave very early in the morning. So I'll need to stay at my apartment tonight." And His Heart Melted Part 2 "Okay," she replied. "What time do you get off work tonight? I'll meet you at your place." "You don't have to if you don't want to, y'know?" "I want to, John. And I know you do too." "True," he admitted. "I should get done here at about 5:30." * * * That afternoon, Angie came by John's workplace to say she wanted to cook dinner for him at his place, and that she needed his keys. He gave her the keys to his apartment. She smiled broadly, gave him a quick kiss on the lips, and hurried off. John was confused. He loved Angie, but he still wasn't sure how she felt about him. After what had happened on Saturday night, he just figured it had to do with her break-up with Darren. She had needed a friend, and he was available. However, it was now Tuesday, and she was still staying with him-not that it bothered him-but he wasn't sure how long it would last. During his lunch break, John closed the door to his small office, took out his Bible, and read the last part of Eph. 5 several times. Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God. Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body. Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself. For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church: For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church. Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband. (Ephesians 5:21-33, KJV) John spent some time in prayer, and determined that he would tell Angie how he felt. And he would just keep on loving her, no matter what. And His Heart Melted Part 3 Part III 12 — Candlelight John arrived at his apartment a little after six that evening, and went inside. Angie met him at the door, and took the flowers he had bought for her, and thanked him with a quick kiss on his cheek. But no smile. John smelled the food cooking, and said, "Spaghetti! Smells great! How long till it's ready?" "It won't be long!" Angie snapped. John was taken back. He wasn't sure that this was going to be a good night. But he made an effort to be patient with her. He had noticed unlit candles on the small dining table in his living area, but no plates or silverware, so he went into the kitchen area to get them, and set the table himself. By the time Angie came in with the spaghetti and the noodles, John had the lights turned down, the candles lit, and music playing softly on her stereo. Angie realized John was playing one of the CD's she had brought over that afternoon; it was her favorite love song album. She looked at him and smiled, melting his heart melted. That was the smile John had expected earlier, he realized. "I'm sorry I snapped at you, John," Angie said apologetically. "I had trouble getting the sauce right, but I didn't have to take it out on you. But thanks for setting the table. That's something Darren would never have done." "You're welcome, hon," John replied with a smile. Throughout dinner, Angie told John of her struggles the last week concerning Darren. "Every time I thought of him," she concluded, "I compared him with you. And he always fell short. I finally realized what I really wanted–needed, and it wasn't Darren." She paused. "Y'know, John, I've really enjoyed these past few days with you. It's such a refreshing change." "I've enjoyed it too." Seeing that they had both finished eating, Angie got up and went into the living room. John followed her in, and sat down on his battered sofa. Angie set the stereo to repeatedly play her favorite song on that CD. She sat down beside John, and leaned against him. John put his arms around Angie. "Y'know, it's been a long time since I heard that album. You used to play it so much I got sick of it." She giggled. "But that is one song I never got tired of hearing." He let the song play a little more, then added, "It reminds me that God is always 'Still Here'." "It's one of my all-time favorite songs. But tonight I'm playing it to you, John. I'm so glad you're still here." "Me too," John replied. He hesitated, clearly struggling to say something. "Angie, I know we agreed not to do this, but I have to say it: I don't want this to end. I want us to stay together. I lov–" Angie interrupted John by placing her fingers on his lips. "I don't want it to end either, John. You are my husband, legally and physically, and I want to live with you as your wife , as long as we both shall live," she said, smiling. John tried to respond with "Till death do us part," but found that his lips had decided to kiss her instead. 13 — Reconciliation Later, they lay together in his bed, and John wondered how they had gotten there from the sofa. Oh well, he thought, what does it matter. Then he thought, God has answered my prayers in ways I had only dreamed of. John looked at Angie, sleeping peacefully in his arms, and wondered. Angie opened her eyes, saw his face, and asked, "What is that look for?" "'You're Still Here.'" "So are you," she whispered sweetly. "Yes, but I meant the song–it's still playing." Angie listened a moment, then said, "Yes, it sure is. It's very appropriate, y'know? The last two mornings, I was afraid I'd wake up and find you had already left." John chuckled. "Why is that funny?" Angie inquired. "I was just remembering how, right before our 'separation', you'd leave not long after having sex. It was very hard for me to watch you go like that, because I knew we were growing apart. I wanted you to stay with me as long as possible." John paused. "So for you to now be worried about me leaving in the middle on the night, that's quite a change." "Yes, it is, isn't it." Angie replied. "Y'know, I'm so proud of you." "Me? What for?" "It took a lot for you tell me you wanted us to stay together. I know you–you've tried to honor our agreement, even though it hurt you. Like watching me leave in the middle of the night." "Well, I certainly didn't expect all this!" John exclaimed. "What'd you mean?" Angie inquired. "Four days ago you almost got engaged to someone else," John said. "Since then we've spent all day Saturday and Sunday, and then the past two nights, together. And now, we agree to live openly as husband and wife. That's quite a turn-around." "That is what you've been praying for, isn't it?" "Oh yes, but I didn't expect it all in four days. I figured that we'd end our agreement, and that I'd have to date you for several months, and then ask you to marry me." "We already did that, John, although we mixed up the order," Angie said with a giggle. "I guess so," John agreed. "Well, I had that in mind too," Angie said. "But then I heard what your pastor said Sunday about the roles of a husband and a wife, and that once they are married, they should stay together. You've loved me unconditionally, John. I was convicted. I realized that, having married you, I should stay with you, no matter what, no matter how I felt. And the truth is–" "Wait a minute!" John interrupted, "Are you staying with out of some sort of obligation?" "You didn't let me finish, John," Angie stated. "The truth is, I do have very strong feelings for you–that's why I wasn't happy with Darren. But I know I haven't treated you right lately. I've been praying about it, and decided that, if you would have me, we'd start living together as husband and wife." "If I'd have you??" John asked. "Do you really doubt that?" "No, but it was your decision to make too, " Angie said. "So you do love me?" "Yes! Very much." Angie paused. "Your attitude since we separated has been wonderful. You really took to heart what your pastor has been teaching, and it shows." "Well, I can't take credit for that. It all belongs to the Lord." "I understand. You know, if both of us had shown that kind of unselfish attitude and behavior from the beginning, I don't think I would have ever fallen for Darren." "You're probably right. Before you met him, I had really started taking our relationship for granted. And that's always dangerous." "I did the same thing. And I doubt that making our marriage public will make it any easier now." "Except maybe in one respect," John added. "Now, other people will know we're married, especially our parents. We denied ourselves a lot of support by doing it the way we did." "Isn't that the truth," Angie agreed. "I think our time apart made us both appreciate how much we really meant to each other." "I know it did for me. And I was willing to throw all that away for Darren!" Angie said, as she fought to keep from crying. "I'm so glad you didn't give up on me. You gave me some space, but . . ." Her voice trailed off. "Well, you could have cut me off completely, but you didn't," John reminded her. "Cut off my best friend? No way! You were there for me when I really needed a friend. And now I'm here for you, wherever here is," Angie replied with a smile. With that they made love again. And Angie was reminded that John was always his best in whatever he did when she was in his life. He seemed so lost without her. It was like he belonged with her. He seemed to draw strength from her presence. And Angie realized that she was happiest when she was with John. 14 — Decisions John went to the bathroom to freshen up, then came into the kitchen. "Are we going back to your place tonight? I don't have to sleep over, y'know. I could just leave afte–" "No, John," Angie interrupted. "I don't want us to play that game again. I have thoroughly enjoyed waking up with you in bed with me these last five days; I've already told you that. We're married; I think we should act like it." "You're right," he admitted. "I just wasn't sure you'd want that." "John, don't get insecure on me now, okay? I don't really care where we stay, as long as we're together; I meant what I said last night. I love you! I'm not going anywhere without you." "Okay, how 'bout I just move in up there then?" "It's too small," Angie responded, "and too far away from your work." "Your lease is up this month, isn't it?" John asked. "Yeah, but you just signed yours a couple months ago. Four months to go, right?" Angie inquired. John nodded yes. "I really don't want to live that far from work, but if we can't find something closer, I'm more than willing, you understand? You're much more important to me than where we live." "I'm glad. I really am," he said with his biggest smile. "Well, we'll talk more when we get home tonight. We still have to figure out what to tell everyone, especially our parents." "That sounds like fun." Angie snorted at John's sarcasm. She gave him a quick kiss, then headed off to the bedroom to get ready for work. * * * "Let's get married!" Angie declared over dinner that night. "You mean again?" John asked. "Yes, like renewing our vows. My folks always wanted me to have a nice wedding. It doesn't have to be big, but I'd like to have something for them. Besides, I want everyone to know that I love you, and that I'm not ashamed to be your wife. But what about our folks?" Angie asked. "What do we tell them, how do we explain us?" "We tell them the whole truth," John replied. "My idea is this: We say publically that we eloped two years ago–" "Which is true," Angie added. "–but that we had problems from the start, so we didn't announce it. Eventually, we separated, but now we're back together, and we want to make it public." "I guess that will work. It's the core of the truth anyway. That's definitely what I'll tell Darren, if he ever calls, which I hope he doesn't. But I'll let him know we were through anyway, no matter what would have happened between me and you." "Well, I just hope he doesn't show up around me." "He's not worth it, John. He's a lot bigger than you are, and you don't have to prove anything to me. You understand?" John nodded yes. "I'm glad you're mature enough to accept that." "Thanks. I appreciate your encouragement. We'll need to get rings too," John said. "Only for you. I'm already wearing mine." She raised her left hand for him to see. "Where did you get that?" he asked. "You bought it for me, on our honeymoon at the beach. You insisted, remember?" "Oh, yeah. I was trying to be so romantic, since we agreed there would be no romance after we got back home." "Biggest lies ever told, huh, John?" she asked with a smile. "True" He thought a moment, then said, "You've never called that time our honeymoon before, y'know?" "I will from now on," she said, and then she kissed him. "Remember our first night together? You were so sweet to me, you know? Sleeping in separate beds! Wow, what a guy." "Well, you went along with it. At least until the next morning." "That was your idea, not mine!" Angie exclaimed. "I'd gotten cold, that's all," she said with a grin. "Yeah right!" John retorted. "Just like what happened Satur­day night was an accident." He noticed Angie's face redden, then added. "That's what I thought." "Let's go home," Angie said. "Home," John mused. "I like the sound of that" "Me too," she said. And she smiled, melting his heart. * * * Later that night, back at her place in bed, Angie complained while John was caressing her breasts. "Not so hard, John!" "I'm not rubbing them hard!" "I know, but my breasts are feeling tender tonight." "Okay, I'll go easy on them." And he did. * * * "Angie?" John asked later. "What do you think about having chil­dren?" "Oh, I think it would be great. Especially after I graduate next year." Angie thought a moment. "Of course, we weren't cautious at all on Saturday, y'know, so I could be pregnant now." "That would be nice." Then John said, "But that was risky. You really should have said something. And I should've asked too. What if we hadn't have decided to stay together?" "I was pretty sure of what you wanted, as far as the sex goes any­way. I wanted it too. I was so used to not worrying about getting preg­nant that I didn't stop to remember that I was unprotected. I'll get a pregnancy test tomorrow so we'll know for sure, and I'll schedule an appointment as soon as I can get an opening at my doc­tor's." "Sounds good," John said. * * * The next day, (Thursday), John talked to his apartment manager, Mr. Brown, about getting a larger apartment. John explained that he had been separat­ed from his wife, who was living in their old apartment in the other town. The manager knew which one, because he had checked John's refer­ences before renting to him. "I realize your problem, John," he said, "but I don't have a larger one available here." "I understand, sir," John replied. "I'll honor my lease. I just wish we could find some­thing a little closer to halfway between where each of us works." "Where does your wife work, John?" John told him. "Call me tonight; I'll be here till after seven. I want to check on some things first. Your wife's name is Angela Morris, right?" "Angela Potter. She uses her maiden name." "Okay," Mr. Brown said, writing the name down on his notepad. John thanked him and left the office. * * * That evening before dinner, John told Angie what he found out. Angie had also talked to her building manager, and found that there was a larger apartment available in her building. But that still left John with having to pay a penalty to get out of his lease. Angie looked at her wall clock. "It's almost seven now, John. Why don't you call Mr. Brown, and I'll set up dinner?" John went into her bedroom to use the phone there. When he came back, he was smiling broadly. "What'd he say?" Angie asked curiously. "You won't believe it," John replied. "First, he said he talked to your building manager. He wanted to check your references, see what you were like as a tenant. She told him that you were very prompt with your rent, and kept the place clean. She said she thought that something had been going on between us for a long time, and is glad to hear that we are back together." "So am I," Angie put in. "Well," John continued, "Mr. Brown owns several different types of properties. One is a two-bedroom duplex right off the freeway, about half-way between where we =each work. He's been having trouble getting good people who won't trash the place. He's agreed to allow us to take it without any lease penalty at my place, but we'd have to sign a one-year lease at the duplex. He really wants some good tenants there." John told Angie what the rent was, which was about 75 percent of the total amount they currently paid for their apartments. "Since he's having to do some light remod­eling, it won't be ready for another two weeks, so we have until then to decide." "What do we have to decide?" Angie asked. "If we want to commit to a year there or not," John said. "He said we could look at the place anytime tomorrow or next week. Because of the work being done, someone will be there during the day all week." "If we like it, I say let's go for it." "Me too. I believe it's what we've been praying for." By this time they had finished eating, so they cleared the table, then sat down on her sofa. 15 — Announcements and Moves On Friday afternoon, Angie told John that the pregnancy test was positive. John smiled broadly. "I've got an appointment next Monday at my doctor's. I'm glad to see you're taking this well." "I'm thrilled beyond words." Then John kissed Angie, and she under­stood that he was. Then they visited the duplex. Angie loved it, so John agreed that they would take it. * * * That night, they invited John's parents out for dinner. They did the same for Angie's on Saturday. Neither set of parents was very thrilled to hear their story, but they accepted that John and Angie were now trying to do the right thing. Plans were set in motion for the vow renewal ceremony. On that Sunday, John and Angie asked his pastor to perform the ceremony, and pub­lically announced the event to the church. They also asked to join the church as members. * * * On Monday, Angie came home from work. When John got home, she asked if they could go out to dinner, and he agreed. John asked eagerly, "So, what did you find out?" "I'm definitely pregnant. That's why my breasts have been so tender lately. It's also why I've been sick the past few mornings." "Morning sickness already?" "It's not that unusual," she replied. "Not for someone who's five weeks pregnant," she added, squeezing his right arm lovingly. "Five weeks?" "Five and a half, near as the doctor can tell," she said with a grin. John stared at her for a moment, unable to say a word, but looking like he wanted to ask her a question. Angie noticed, and guessed what he wanted to know. "You remem­ber what happened about five weeks ago, the night when you came over after you almost lost your job?" "Oh, yes! When you 'comfort­ed' me?" "I did, didn't I?" she giggled. "Maybe too much, huh?" The implications of what had happened slowly began to register with both of them. "Angie, you had absolutely no idea at all?" John asked. "None, I promise," Angie replied. "And I feel so stupid! I missed a period, and thought nothing of it. I figured maybe it had something to do with coming off the pill." John put his right arm around her, and pulled her closer. "Angie, it's okay. I am so glad we'd already decided to stay together before we found this out. But I'm really thrilled. The timing's not so good–you're due in the middle of next semester." "I know. I'm glad too, though." "Won't our parents be surprised!" John said. "My mom won't. She asked me Saturday night if I was pregnant. Said I were behaving like she did with her first pregnancy." Angie giggled. "Angie, let's never, ever talk of this as an accidental pregnan­cy, okay? I never want our child to think we didn't want him or her. I don't mind if some day they know the whole story, but I honestly believe that with God, there are no accidental pregnancies." "You're right. We didn't plan it, but God knew. I was thinking the same thing. I was unplanned, and I heard about it once or twice in my life." "I remember you telling me that once. That's why I mentioned it." * * * John and Angie spent the rest of the week's evenings packing their things. John had suggested that they each work on their own apart­ments, but Angie wouldn't hear of it, as she refused to consider spending any more time away from him than she had too. * * * Mr. Brown called them on Thursday evening to tell him that the duplex was ready. * * * The next day, Angie needed to bring over some more things from her apartment. She asked John if she could borrow his sedan, as it had more room than her coupe. John agreed, and drove her car that day. John hardly ever drove the sedan after that, except when they went some­where togeth­er. Angie liked to sit close to him when they were both in the car, which she couldn't do in the coupe. They got new licenses because of their new address; Angie's now used her married name. They also closed John's bank account and convert­ed her's into a joint account. * * * John and Angie had already picked out a new queen-size bed for the duplex (they each used a full-size), and had it delivered on Saturday. They spent their first night in their new apartment that evening. They took a few things with them, and John picked up some food on his way in from work. He arrived to find that Angie had set up a few of her things, includ­ing her CD player. And His Heart Melted Part 3 They ate by candle light, and retired to their bedroom afterwards to try out their new bed.