Catching Serenity

by JoAnn Durgin

  Jackson ran fingers through his hair, shaking his head and gave her his best Are you out of your mind? expression. “That’s got to be one of the most ill-founded and absolutely ridiculous things I’ve ever heard you say.” It was another reason he loved her. He never knew what would come shooting from her mind and out of her mouth. That luscious, all-too-kissable mouth. He shook his head again, trying to focus and regain his perspective.

  “Which only goes to prove you haven’t known me long enough to love me.”

  Jackson faced her, arms folded across his chest. “We’ve known each other since early May. Okay, how long do you think it takes to love someone? From what you told me, your parents pretty much knew it the first day they shared a blanket at the Newport Jazz Festival. Charlie knew it the first moment he laid eyes on his wife.”

  “True,” Serenity said, “and Wes told Deidre he’d known after a month of dating her.”

  “I’ll tell you the moment I fell in love with you, if you’d care to hear it.” Jackson waited until her gaze traveled upward to meet his, locking them in. While she didn’t appear nervous, Serenity looked as vulnerable as he’d ever seen her. “When your swing broke and you sat in the dirt, all dazed and dusty, and you started laughing. You had me then. Especially when you got all flustered and pulled at your skirt and tried to avoid looking at me because you were too embarrassed.” He stepped closer, one hand over his heart like a smitten schoolboy, but it went oh-so-much-deeper. “I’d known you less than an hour, but I knew in that moment you would become a very meaningful person in my life. Someone I could love very easily, even though I didn’t want to.”

  Her eyes widened, and that little spark of fire ignited in them, making them luminescent in their beauty. “Why...why,” she stammered, “didn’t you want to love me?” Jackson took more satisfaction in that question than she could ever know.

  “Because I didn’t want to love anyone. My parents have never enjoyed the kind of marriage your parents have, or what Charlie and Marcela had together,” he said. “My mom and dad could barely tolerate each other, both involved with their pet projects and charities. In all my years growing up under the same roof, I can count on one hand the number of times I saw them kiss, hug or anything more than a polite peck on the cheek.”

  He uncrossed his arms and moved to sit down again, motioning for her to join him. “I don’t want that kind of marriage. If I’m going to marry, it’s going to be a full-on, can’t-stop-thinking-about-her, wanting-to-be-with-her-as-much-as-possible kind of love.” Jackson reached for her hand again, lacing his fingers through hers, holding on tight. He never wanted to let her go. “I want to hear about her day, share her problems and her heartache, soothe her feelings when they’re wounded by the world or some jerk who cut in front of her on the road.”

  Releasing her hand, he rested his elbows on his knees, staring at the ground. “I want to do all the normal stuff like grocery shopping, going to the pound and picking out a dog...or an iguana,” he said with a slight grin. “Cook in the kitchen and make a mess, finding out together what recipes we love and which ones we’d rather toss back in the ocean for the fish. Listen to music and curl up on the couch and cuddle together. Find out where she’s ticklish and what gets her all hot and bothered.” He met her eyes. “Miss her like crazy when she’s not there, and send her corny cards and flirty emails. Love her so much there’ll be absolutely no doubt in her mind what a precious treasure she is.”

  Silence reigned for a long moment. Clasping his hands together on his propped knees, Jackson waited, determined not to speak again until she spoke. As it was, he’d probably said way more than he should. He stole a glance her way, but Serenity was apparently stunned speechless. When another minute passed and she still hadn’t spoken, he couldn’t take it. “In case you’re wondering, that speech was about you, by the way.”

  “Jackson?”

  He turned to face her, and a huge lump lodged in his throat. He’d never been so nervous with a woman, but with his heart pretty much on the line, he figured whatever Serenity said next could make or break whatever future they might have together. “Yes?” Somehow, it didn’t come out as masculine and deep as he’d hoped, but at least it was intelligible and something more than an adolescent boy’s squeak.

  “The plastic sand pail and shovel.”

  He shook his head. He’d put his heart out there for her to stomp on, and she wanted to discuss a plastic beach toy? Serenity smiled and ran a finger down the side of his jaw, moving her thumb to caress his chin before running it across his lower lip. She obviously had no idea what that did to him. The woman was driving him crazy. Still, he’d wait all night for her explanation of that puzzling sand pail comment, if necessary. Hopefully, that wouldn’t happen since she needed to get back home to Justin.

  She giggled then, giving him immense relief. He was already pretty pumped, and the effect was nothing short of dizzying. If she was relaxed and playful enough to giggle, it meant she wasn’t going to slap his face and stalk away, leaving his heart in a puddle on the beach.

  “When you sent the sand pail to my office in that elaborate wrapping like it was the most expensive and precious gift in the world. That’s when I knew.”

  He shook his head, puzzled. “How...?” Sure, he’d meant it to be special and thoughtful, but who could have known she’d love it so much? It was true the little gestures sometimes meant the most.

  Her eyes softened. “That pail represents so much. You should know I’m actually thinking of having it bronzed.” She caught his look and nudged his shoulder. “It helps me remember to experience the joy and freedom in Christ, and to embrace the Lord’s blessings in my life. And you know how the sifter part of the pail filters out the not-so-good, leaving only the good? I need to remember to do that in my life. But now,” she said, scooting closer, “I’m tired and I’m heady with love. Please kiss me, Jackson.”

  “My pleasure, your highness,” he whispered against her lips. “Happy to oblige, but first, say it again, please.”

  “I love you,” Serenity said, moving her lips on his in a most tantalizing way.

  “And I love and adore you.” He poured such energy into his kisses, she might very well think of knighting him. But he had a much better idea. One he planned on putting into place the night of the gala.

  ~CHAPTER 48~

  The servers worked quietly, clearing the last of the dessert dishes from the tables as Serenity walked back inside the Great Hall after saying goodnight to some of the guests from the gala. What a wonderful evening. They’d raised more money than they could have hoped, enough to start plans for yet another playground renovation. The charity auction had been exceedingly successful, the dinner delicious and the socializing and dancing afterwards had proved the highlight of the evening.

  Hayley Foster had been in attendance with none other than Spencer Walton. Serenity had to admit they made a striking pair, he in his tuxedo and Hayley in a form-fitting but modest, pink sparkly, floor-length confection. Spencer acted apologetic over his previous behavior and told her as much. In-between moments of acting like a little boy, he could be remarkably mature. He’d kissed her cheek and told her he was happy she was with Jackson. He truly seemed pleased for her.

  In one of those moments she knew she’d never forget, Serenity relished the sight of her handsome father in his tuxedo and dancing with her mother, beautiful in her classic, black and white tea-length gown. Serenity danced once with her father—fully recovered and looking much improved—while Jackson danced with Mama. How it thrilled her heart to see how well her parents interacted with Jackson. They treated him like family. He was family.

  Charlie, looking tall, debonair and distinguished, danced with several of the single women, including Karen Gorham. Serenity watched as he whirled a number of them on the dance floor. Who knew her old friend could move so well on a dance floor? She laughed when she saw Kelsie tap Charlie on the shoulder and invite him to dance. Whisking her onto the floor, he happily obli
ged.

  Danny’s parents had also come for the evening, especially since the playground was being renovated and renamed in honor of their fallen son. “Thank you, Dr. Ross,” Danny’s father said to Jackson, shaking his hand when they sat at their table and chatted with them during dinner. “Danny would have liked you very much, son. Serenity and Justin are blessed to have you in their lives.”

  “And I feel the same way about them, too. Coming from you, that means a lot, sir. Thank you,” Jackson said, pulling him into a quick hug. They did that thing men do and patted the other’s back while Serenity fought more tears. Might as well name a water tower in her honor after the events of the last few months.

  Deidre was beyond gorgeous in a deep red gown that set off her coloring and dark, curly hair to perfection. The epitome of the high society matron, her best friend had flitted around the Great Hall all evening welcoming everyone and starting conversations while Serenity worked behind the scenes making sure the caterers circulated the hors d’oeuvres and appetizers before ushering their guests into dinner. Serenity enjoyed the expression on Wes’s face as he watched Deidre move around the room. This love business was pretty sweet, and everyone she loved was in this place tonight.

  Carmen was also there with David Marsh. “I’m sorry if I caused you any worry,” Carmen confided to her when they found themselves in the ladies room at the same time.

  “You didn’t,” Serenity said. “Now that everything’s past us, Carmen, I’d really like us to be friends.”

  Carmen’s smile was lovely as was her off-the-shoulder, blue-green chiffon gown. “I’d like that, too. David’s asked me to marry him.” She held out her left hand and showed her the brilliant, marquise cut diamond.

  “Oh, that’s wonderful! I’m so happy for you,” Serenity said, gathering the other woman in a hug, feeling the slightest pinch of jealousy. More than ever, she hoped Jackson would ask her that same question. For so long, she’d never thought she’d find love again, but then along came Jackson. She’d say yes in a heartbeat if he asked. Besides, if he didn’t, Justin would probably blurt it out and be the one to ask. That made her smile.

  She’d caught Jackson’s eyes on her many times and found it difficult to keep her focus when she spied him in his dark tuxedo. James Bond had nothing on this guy. Although she’d loved his Army Service Uniform, and thought nothing could top it, the tuxedo came close. If she wasn’t already in love with the man, she would be after this special evening.

  Jackson’s knee was bothering him again, and he’d scheduled knee surgery for mid-October. Finally. In the back of her mind, Serenity understood he’d wanted to wait until after the gala. He’d told her he wanted to dance with her without crutches. And, oh how they’d danced. He’d held her as close as possible. Neither one of them had said anything as he’d twirled her around the dance floor. She’d never been a good dancer, but it didn’t matter. Serenity felt as though she floated on air as she’d surrendered fully to Jackson’s lead. He did it so well and she’d follow him anywhere. Words weren’t needed as she curled into his chest and he pulled her close, the connection—emotional, physical and in every other way imaginable—between them as strong as ever.

  Hearing sounds from the grand piano in the corner of the room, she stopped. Jackson sat on the bench, running his fingers over the keys, as though warming up his fingers. She’d never heard him play although she recalled him saying something about it the day they met. “Spectacularly terrible,” he’d said. Well, the man was the king of understatement. She had the suspicion she was going to learn another lesson in humility.

  Jackson’s tuxedo jacket was draped over the bench beside him and he’d removed his bow tie and unbuttoned his shirt a few buttons. For a long moment, Jackson stared at the keys, not moving. What was he doing? Serenity stood immobile, frozen to the hardwood floor, waiting and listening. Then he began to play. Spectacular was the word for it, all right, but it wasn’t terrible in the least. If anything, it was the exact opposite. Incredible.

  Mozart Symphony Number Five in G Minor.

  Jackson must have memorized it, practiced countless hours to play it as well as he did now. More precious was that he didn’t know she was there and believed he played only for a small audience of servers clearing tables. Closing her eyes, Serenity drank in the sounds of the beloved symphony. She swayed and brought a hand over her heart, allowing the music to soothe her soul as it always did. How many times she’d listened to this same piece when she’d felt as though her heart was broken. Hearing it played by this man, the chords of her favorite symphony infiltrated her heart, swelling it with an intensity of love and exquisite passion she’d never before experienced.

  Walking slowly across the room as Jackson neared the end of the piece, Serenity kept her steps light, not wanting to disturb his concentration. Not wanting him to see her. Not yet.

  When finally he finished, he bowed his head. Serenity took his jacket and draped it over a nearby chair. Sitting down on the piano bench beside him, she smiled when he raised his head. Surprise flickered in those mesmerizing eyes.

  “Hey,” she said.

  “I didn’t know I had an audience.”

  “I didn’t know you were so accomplished.”

  He glanced at the piano keys. “I’m not,” he said. “Not at all.”

  “I beg to differ.”

  “Only with this piece.”

  Taking his face between her hands, Serenity drew him close and touched her lips to his. “I love you, Jackson. You are my symphony, my world, my everything.”

  The love in his eyes found its way to the very depths of her soul.

  “Marry me, Serenity Grace. Tonight, tomorrow or whenever you say. I’m yours. Let me build you a sand castle.” Jackson’s words were barely more than a whisper. She absorbed his masculine scent, and the slight roughness of his beard grazed her skin. “We’ll make lots of babies to fill that castle,” he said, his voice low and husky, his skin warming hers. He raised his head, his lids lowered. “I love you and want you beside me the rest of our natural-born lives. I’d get down on one knee, but that wouldn’t work so well right now. I have something to give you.”

  Getting up from the bench, he retrieved his jacket and reached into the inside pocket. Serenity stared, wide-eyed, at the deep green velvet box he held in the palm of one hand as he sat back down beside her. “Open it,” he said, handing it to her.

  Taking it with shaking hands, she opened the lid and gasped at the beautiful diamond solitaire nestled in its bed of green satin. Her breath caught at the size and the cut of the stone.

  Pear-shaped. Of course.

  Overcome, Serenity put one hand over her heart, her eyes moist. She pulled him to his feet, moving quickly into his embrace when Jackson opened his arms.

  “I take it that’s a yes?” Pulling back, he gently swiped his thumb beneath one eye and then the other as she nodded, still unable to find her voice. “I’ve already asked your dad for your hand, but there’s one other very important young man I need to ask.”

  “That man goes to bed early. We’ll have to ask him tomorrow.” She traced her fingers along the side of Jackson’s face and let them linger, cradling his cheek in her palm, running her thumb along his full, generous lower lip. “Somehow, I don’t think he’ll have any objections.” She rested her head against Jackson’s chest, wrapping her arms around his waist, loving the sound of his strong, steady heartbeat. She’d never tire of hearing it. Her anchor. Her love.

  “I’d like to start adoption proceedings whenever you think it’s best, but we’ll give Justin some time to get used to the idea. He’s had a lot thrust on him in a very short time.”

  “You’ve already been a father to my son, and the Lord couldn’t have given him anyone better. You might need to hold me for a very long time,” she murmured.

  His hold on her tightened. “I’m here as long as you need me. The rest of our lives,” he whispered, kissing the top of her head. How long he held her, she couldn’t
know, but she snuggled into him, loving his strength, his goodness, how he’d protected her and found the answers to unlocking the puzzles of her life.

  “Thank you for giving me my life back,” she whispered.

  “Thank you for giving me life,” he whispered back. “My beautiful pretty, Serenity,” he said, his voice low. “Forever.” He dipped his head and his eyes searched hers. Seeing her shiver, he brought her wrap closer around her shoulders.

  “I didn’t shiver because I’m cold, Jackson.”

  “I’ll try my best to be a great husband, a great father...” He punctuated each statement with more kisses, each one longer and more impassioned. “A great friend, a great listener, a great provider, and a great...” The last one he whispered in her ear.

  “I don’t think you’ll have a bit of trouble in that department,” she said when she found her voice again. Goodness, this man stole her every breath in countless ways.

  “Come dance with me, please. Outside.” Taking her by the hand, Jackson led her to the French doors leading to the back of The Summer Palace. “You’ll never guess what’s out here,” he said with a wry smile.

  “I have no idea.” Following him as he opened the doors wide, she laughed when she spied a sandbox. Quite elaborate, but a sandbox all the same. She watched as Jackson perched precariously on the edge and removed his shoes and socks before rolling the pant legs of his tuxedo. Glancing up at her, he lifted her left foot as though it was a cherished treasure. With gentle hands and exquisite care, he removed first one sandal and slipped it from her foot. Then he repeated it on the other side. How could Jackson turn the simplest action into a sensual, loving gesture? Rising to his feet, his eyes never left hers as Jackson took her hand and assisted her over the edge of the sandbox. “Dance, Princess Serenity, dance... This is your kingdom—”

  “And all of God’s riches shall be added unto you,” she said, her hand clasping hold of his as he twirled her in a slow circle beneath his arm. What a lovely kingdom it was. Stepping into the sandbox beside her, Jackson put one hand on the small of her back and clasped her other hand tight in his grasp, lacing his fingers through hers. Their bodies moved in sync to the timeless, silent dance. Serenity felt heady with desire, flushed with a love she knew would only grow deeper through the years.