Robert stared blindly out the window, trying to figure some way out of his current predicament. He seethed silently, his fists clenched so tightly that his knuckles were white. His eyes smoldered with the rage that coursed through his boiling blood. Just when he’d found someone to share his life with, this had to happen. Of course, he still wanted to marry Katherine. There was no doubt about that. Hell, who wouldn’t want to marry her? Robert sat still, trying to imagine the rest of his life without her. His body ached for her warmth. He seemed to be staring into the fathomless abyss of despair that his life would become without her, and he was jarred from his miserable musings by the ringing of the telephone.

“Hello?”

“Um, hello?” said the deep, refined tones of a man. “Is this Robert?”

“Yes, who’s calling?”

“Robert, this is John Hanson, Katherine’s father.” What? Wasn’t one encounter with this man enough? Further dealings with him had to constitute cruel and unusual punishment. Robert racked his brains, trying to come up with some logical explanation for why

God would subject him to such torture.

“Oh, yes, “was Robert’s simple reply.

“Robert, Katherine doesn’t know I’m calling you, “Mr. Hanson continued hesitantly, obviously sensing Robert’s reluctance to speak with him. “I feel I owe you an apology for the other night.” Robert swallowed. Oo how he loathed this man.

“Sir, I appreciate that, but I think Katherine is the one you should really apologize too. I’m not sure you realize what this is doing to her.” Mr. Hanson sighed audibly on the other end.

“You’re right, but I felt I needed to talk to you. This is difficult to say. I’d feel better if we spoke in person.” What? He had to be kidding! Robert remembered reading Dante’s Inferno. Wasn’t there a circle where angry fathers-in-law and sons-in-law shouted insults at each other across a pit of molten lava? NO? Urm, well, there should have been. Robert’s fingers curled tightly around the phone. He didn’t see why he should bend to this man’s will and consent to meeting him, and then he thought of Katherine. His heart swelled. Instantly his mind flew back to the other evening. He remembered how her fragile form convulsed with sobs as he held her in his arms, feeling much like crying himself. He supposed he had to do this, if not for himself, then at least for her.

“I suppose I could, “he agreed somewhat reluctantly. He glanced at his watch. 8:00.

“I can meet you in half an hour.”

“The coffee shop was filled with a comforting warmth and the aroma of freshly ground beans. Polite conversation and soft laughter floated through the air. A silver bell tinkled as customers bustled through the door accompanied by an occasional draft that would creep in unawares, reminding the comfortable patrons of the chilly, January evening they were trying to escape. Robert wrapped his fingers around his coffee cup, drawing comfort from its extra warmth as he looked across the table at Katherine’s father.

“I think you should know, “he said slowly, “that I’m not doing this for myself. I’m doing this for Katherine’s sake.” Mr. Hanson nodded.

“I understand, “he replied. “I wouldn’t expect you to feel any sentiment toward me.” The older man stared out the window at the vast, night sky and the scene of hurrying people coming and going from the various shops along the strip. He was silent for several minutes before turning back to Robert.

“I asked you to meet me here for a reason. I want you to understand something.” Robert nodded. “I’ve seen Katherine go through the normal ups and downs that young girls have in their romantic relationships. Those are things that I think all fathers want to protect their daughters against. Nevertheless they‘re learning experiences that are all part of life.” Again Robert nodded, unsure of where this was going. “I’ve also seen my daughter hurt in ways that no girl should ever be hurt.” Now Robert thought he was beginning to understand (maybe). “Did Katherine tell you about Michael?”

“Yes, “Robert replied softly, the memory of that night tugging at his heart. That had been the first night he’d held her in his arms, the first time he’d comforted her.

“That hurt her more then she let on to anyone, maybe even to you. I don’t think she’s ever completely gotten over it. When she became involved with you, I was worried about her. I wasn’t sure what your intentions were toward her because, well, “he paused, apparently uncertain of how best to express his thought.

“Because of my sexuality?” Robert suggested. Mr. Hanson shifted uncomfortably and nodded. Robert sighed heavily and glanced out the window. When he’d collected his thoughts, he looked back across the table.

“I guess I can understand that in a way. To tell the truth, it’s one of the reasons I was so hesitant to start a relationship with her. At first I wasn’t quite sure where I stood, and I’d come to care deeply for her. The last thing in the world I wanted was for her to be hurt again.”

“I have to be honest with you, “Mr. Hanson said, “I don’t know whether or not I really understand where you’re coming from. I don’t know what it’s like to experience the emotions that you experience.” Robert shrugged.

“In essence it really isn’t all that different. Love is love after all.” Mr. Hanson hesitated.

“I just, well- I know Katherine loves you, and that’s why I’m worried about her. I don’t want her to get hurt again. I’m concerned that you might, well, you’re your feelings might change, “he finished awkwardly. Robert smiled softly.

“That’ll never happen.”

“How can you be so sure?”

“Excuse me for asking, but how were you so sure you wanted to marry Katherine’s mother?” Mr. Hanson seemed slightly taken aback by that question. Robert continued without waiting for a response.

“Listen. I’m going to be straightforward with you here. I know what you’re thinking, and I know what worries you. You’re holding my past against me, and I don’t appreciate that. Katherine was there for me during a very rough period in my life. She befriended and comforted me in ways that I don’t think I could ever put into words. She understood about Tony, and she was there.” Robert saw the flicker of doubt (however fleeting) in Mr. Hanson’s eyes. “Look. I loved Tony very much, and at that time, he was my world. Very few people understood and accepted that. Katherine was one of those few. Tony was very special to me, and I still miss him.”

“How can you say that and then claim that you want to marry my daughter?” asked Mr. Hanson. Robert stared unflinchingly across the table.

“After I lost Tony, I felt very empty, and I wanted to find a way to fill that void. I knew nobody could ever replace him, and nobody ever will, but I knew that I couldn’t stop living because he had. I started spending a lot of time with Katherine, and the more time we spent together, the more I liked her. She made me experience feelings that I didn’t think I’d ever have again for anyone, man or woman. Falling in love with Katherine was frightening as well as incredible, but beneath all of the fear of the unknown, I don’t think there were ever any doubts.” He hesitated before continuing, uncertain about opening his heart and soul to this man who he didn’t quite trust. “I can’t tell you the precise moment when I fell in love with her. I doubt if anyone could ever pinpoint something like that, but I remember the night when I first told her. What I remember the most about that night was that I hadn’t even realized the words were on the tip of my tongue. They were completely spontaneous, and the moment I realized I’d said them, I couldn’t imagine taking them back. It was like they’d always been there just waiting for the right time to be spoken. It wasn’t always easy, “he went on quietly, “but I always knew that we’d be able to work through the difficulties, which we did.” He gazed contemplatively out the window when he finished speaking, feeling the silence seep into the space between himself and the man opposite him. Mr. Hanson’s next words were gentle, much kinder than Robert would have expected.

“You really love her? In your heart of hearts, do you really love her?” Robert swallowed back the lump in his throat.

“Yes, “he said simply, a look of pleading earnestness in his dark eyes. Mr. Hanson stared silently out the window for several minutes. Then he turned back to Robert, looking as though he were relinquishing a precious jewel to the only person on Earth who could be trusted with it.

“You have my blessing.”

“You’re doing what?” Katherine cradled the phone on her shoulder and rolled over onto her back, fumbling in the covers to retrieve the book that had fallen from her hand after she fell asleep.

“I’M COMING OVER, NOW, “Robert Replied. “I have the most amazing news!” Katherine rubbed her eyes groggily. Even in this state, she could tell that Robert was full of something, but gosh, it was 11:30 at night. She had on nothing but boxer shorts and a ratty t-shirt (not that Robert would care), and she’d planned to spend the evening curled up in bed with a good book.

“Can’t it wait until tomorrow, Hun? Or can you just tell me now? I was just falling asleep.”

“No, it can’t. I just want to be with you tonight, “he murmered. Katherine heard something in Robert’s voice that made her neck tingle slightly. She began to tremble, her body trying to reach for his.

“Okay. Come on over then.”

The moment she opened the door, Robert swept her into his arms and engaged her in a very long, very deep kiss.

“Rob, “she said breathlessly. “What?”

“Wait till I tell you.” Robert threw himself down on the couch, and a rather intrigued Katherine sat down beside him. “Your dad called me.”

“He did what? Rob, have you been drinking? I told you to lay off the Danish vodka.” Robert shook his head impatiently.

“No, Kat, listen. I’m telling you this actually happened. Your dad called and asked me to meet him at this coffee shop, so I was like, well sure, I’m up for some cruel and unusual punishment.” Katherine rolled her eyes. Robert ignored the look and continued. “So I met him there, and we had this long talk.” Katherine grimaced.

“Oh no. He talked to you? What’d he say?”

“I’m getting to that, “Robert replied. “So we had this long talk. I told him everything about Tony.”

“Robert, were you trying to kill my father?”

“No! Just let me finish! So I told him everything. He asked a lot of questions, and he wanted to know whether or not I really love you.”

“What’d you tell him?” Katherine asked, her insides tightening. Robert brushed a strand of hair from her cheek gently. Katherine never before realized what an intimate gesture that could be. “I told him I did, “he said softly.

“Did he buy it?” she asked.

“He must have, “Robert said, “Because he’s letting me marry you.” Katherine shrieked delightedly, throwing her arms around his neck.

“Robert!” she exclaimed, “You’re amazing! How did you convince him?” Robert smiled.

“My winning personality, “he grinned. Katherine leaned against him affectionately.

“I can’t believe we’re really getting married.” Robert wrapped his arms around her.

“I know. What was I thinking?” Their mouths came together, and a very soft, bewitching silence ensued. Katherine slid her fingers through Robert’s and pulled him to his feet in the direction of her bedroom. He didn’t pull back. There wasn’t a doubt in his mind. Once inside he took her into his arms and kissed her again, tasting her sweetness. He gently slid his tongue into her mouth. She clasped her hands behind his head, straining him closer. He groaned, a deep sound in the back of his throat that signaled the release of his animal lust. Trembling slightly, he slipped his fingers beneath her cotton top, gently kneading her breasts. Katherine’s brain buzzed. She didn’t know where she was or who she was. All she was aware of was the heat of Robert’s touch against her own burning skin. Her fingers tugged on the zipper of Robert’s jeans. He didn’t stay her hand. He groaned and pulled her closer. His fingers closed and unclosed in a rhythmic motion around Katherine’s soft, smooth breasts. She was dizzyingly aware of his hands against her skin. Their bodies were only inches apart. Robert lowered his head to her breasts, running his tongue across soft, creamy skin. Katherine began to tremble, dazed by arousal and desire as she felt Robert’s lips tracing her skin. She clutched at his broad, firm shoulders for support as he trailed feather light kisses along her throat. Robert raised his head finally and gazed into her eyes. His look told her all she needed to know. If there’d been any doubts, they were instantly dispelled.

“Robert, “she whispered. He covered her mouth with his, stopping her speech. Her strength gave way as she melted into his touch, her body collapsing against him. Tenderly he lifted and carried her to the bed. Again and again he kissed her, savoring each moment as if it were the last. Then slowly, gently he entered her, made his way into her secret place with the key that was his alone. He loved the way his arms perfectly encircled her and the way she sighed pleasurably whenever he touched her. He let his fingers gently caress her cheek, her hair, her breasts. God how he loved this woman. Katherine loved the way Robert held her, the way he made love to her; gently, softly. She’d dreamed of what it would be like to finally make love to him, and never in her wildest imaginings could she have anticipated this. When it was over, Robert pulled her to his chest, gently stroking her dark curls. He listened to her deep breathing as she fell asleep in his arms. He swore he wouldn’t sleep that night. . He wanted to lie awake forever, watching the moonlight dance across Katherine’s peacefully sleeping form. He must have drifted off. Some time in the middle of the night, he felt her stir and opened his eyes. Her luscious, naked body was blanketed in moonlight. She moved closer to him, wrapping her arms around his powerful frame and leaning her head against his bare chest.

“I love you so much, “she whispered with emotion that overflowed from her heart in tears that glistened on her silky lashes. Robert’s mouth involuntarily found hers.

“I love you too, “he murmured when they finally drew apart. She touched the tip of her finger to the firm line of his jaw, smiling slightly.

“I remember, “She said, “that you once promised me that when and if the time was right, you’d make me glad I waited.” Robert remembered that night and how fervently he’d wanted to make love to her. He remembered with what willpower he’d controlled his desires.

“And was it worth the wait, Mrs. Rezner?” he asked playfully. Katherine wrapped her arms more tightly around him.

“I think so, Mr. Rezner.”

The five friends sat around the table in the restaurant, wrapped in the happiness that enveloped them.

“I think it’s wonderful that your dad finally gave in, “said Andrea. “I know how much that meant to you, Kat.” She nodded.

“Yeah, I think I knew he’d come around eventually, but I can’t say I wasn’t worried for a while there.”

“He just wants what’s best for you, “Robert said softly.

“My, why the sudden change in heart, Rob?” Joe teased gently. Robert shrugged, his eyes twinkling.

“Awe, c’mon. He’s not that bad.” Joe rolled his eyes.

“Right, and Britney’s boobs are real.”

“Okay, “Robert admitted finally. “So Kat’s dad and I didn’t exactly hit it off, but we’re willing to tolerate each other. We do have one thing in common at least, “he said.

“What’s that?” asked Ashley. Robert laid a hand gently on Katherine’s knee.

“We both love Katherine.” Andrea laughed.

“Kat, just don’t let either of them use a stake knife during Christmas dinner.” Katherine and Robert joined in the laughter that followed this remark.

“It is a relief though, “Katherine admitted. “I do think you and Dad will be friends before long, “she said, looking pointedly at her fiance. Robert raised his hands in playful surrender.

“I give up.”

“C’mon, Rob. You’re a bigger man than that, “said Joe. “Are you really going to roll over that easily?” Robert grinned.

“I’m going to leave that remarkalone, “he replied.

“Have you fixed a date yet?” asked Ashley.

“We’re going to see how things go after I finish my Masters. Rob will have gone through two years of medschool by then.“Katherine replied.

“And you’re moving to Baltimore when?” Andrea inquired somewhat hesitantly. Robert shrugged, seeming somewhat reluctant to answer.

“Probably July.” There was silence at the table for several minutes. Robert gazed around at his friends, and his mind was suddenly flooded with the memories of times they’d shared together and how they’d carried him to this point. Glancing at Katherine, he saw the glisten of tears in her eyes and knew that she was thinking the same thing.

“We’re going to miss you so much!” exclaimed Andrea. Katherine sighed, reaching for Robert’s hand.

“This isn’t goodbye. With any luck, I’ll be back in a few years, “Robert added. “I’d love to be able to come back.”

“It won’t be the same, but we want what’s best for you, “ Ashley said softly. “You two are perfect for each other, and we know you’ll have a wonderful life together wherever you are.” Katherine let her fingers dance across the back of Robert’s hand, feeling the comforting warmth of his skin, and at that moment, nothing seemed more important to her than making him the happiest man alive and doing everything in her power to make him glad he’d chosen to spend his life with her.

“We’re just so happy for the both of you, “said Joe, “and we wish you every happiness known to man.” Katherine smiled, gently squeezing Robert’s hand.

“We have each other. That’s all the happiness we need.”

A/N: This is the end! So what’d you guys think? I really do need some help with the sequel ideas, so what do you want to see or not want to see? I’ve enjoyed these characters so much, and I don’t want to say good-by to Katherine and Robert and the gang, so? Help! Thanks again to Sandra, Dianne, Jess, Gina, Bitterswt-delights, Kijochan, CleverFoxCub, Dblack, Lynn (hope you’ve been able to catch up since you’ve been back), and anyone else who I might have accidentally forgotten! I Love you all!