Subject: Missing you
Date: 11 June 2066 20:35–0500
From: Madi Gibson<gibson@lfn.net.co.uk.earth>
To: Lt. C Hawkes<hawkescooperltusmc@usssaratogaSCVN-2812>

My dearest Cooper,

We’ve only just arrived home and I miss you so much already that it’s breaking my heart. Know that I’ll be thinking of you every waking moment and dreaming of you every sleeping one until we’re together again. At least the communications blackout is over so we won’t have to use snail mail to keep in touch.

The trip back to Earth was uneventful and it didn’t seem to take nearly as long as the ride to the Saratoga (do you think there’s a scientific explanation for that phenomenon? J ) It was, however, a harrowing ride for poor Lucas. He was in misery despite the fact that the medics kept him heavily sedated. Thursday looked like she was about to topple over with fatigue but I couldn’t get her to rest at all. She was worried silly about him; yet, as usual, thoroughly organised. She phoned her sisters from the transport and they made arrangements for home health care and his physical therapy. I guess we’ll be busy pitching in over there for the next few months.

Would you please tell McQueen I said "thanks" for the knife. It was thoughtful of him to buy Reece a gift, but I was so upset over leaving you that I can’t remember if I thanked him or not. Do you think it’s okay to let Reece play with the knife at home or should I keep it locked up somewhere?

The girls are screaming in my ears (Kelsey on the left, Avery on the right) to list all of the things they want to talk to you about when you call them next week. I’m to remind you that you have to use your monthly call to speak to them since they can’t read yet, and don’t forget they go to bed at 9:00 p.m. (the bedtime part is from me). I hope I can get all this down - They miss you/They’re thrilled you’re their new daddy/They’re sad because they didn’t get to be flower girls at our wedding (ask Vanessa)/ When will you be home?/Are you going to bring them a present when you do?/Can they have a puppy? (say ‘no’) /When will they get to meet this McQueen that Reece likes so much and why didn’t he send them a knife? (say ‘they’re too young to have knives’)/Did you know they’re signed up to play soccer this year? (please say ‘yes’ you heard all about it – if they knew I forgot to tell you about that while I was there they’d never forgive me)/Their team is the Screaming Weasels (no, that’s not a joke, so try not to laugh when they tell you - and don’t make the mistake that I did of mentioning that the weasel on their soccer uniform looks like a rabid hamster or they’ll cry for hours J )/Can they call you Daddy?

Goodbye for now, darling. I love you so much. Reece wants to write a short note now.

I love you with all my heart.

Be safe,

Madi

Hi Coop

We’re back in Scotland and it really sucks. L It’s not nearly as fun asthe Saratoga. How old do I have to be to join the Marines anyway? Tell Kurnel McKween that Reece Gibson says hi and not to forget his prommis to come and visit. The twins say hi to him to. Call us soon so we can see you and talk cause I hate writing these stupid emails. L

The twins miss you,

Reece Gibson

P.S. Don’t tell Madi I asked about joining the Marine Core – she might freek out. We can just maybe suprize her okay? And I’m taking good care of her and Kelsey and Avery just like I prommised you I would. I’m goinng to send this now so she won’t be suprized to soon. The twins wish you could comehome.

~*~

Subject: Re: Missing you

Date: June13, 2066 12:38:35 –0500

From: Lt C Hawkes <hawkescooperltusmc@usssaratogaSCVN-2812>

To: Madi Gibson<gibson@lfn.net.co.uk.earth>

My Madi,

>We’ve only just arrived home and I miss you so much already that it’s breaking my heart. Know that >I’ll be thinking of you every waking moment and dreaming of you every sleeping one until we’re >together again. Thank goodness the communication blackout is over so we won’t have to use snail >mail to keep in touch.

I’m so relieved to know that you and Reece made it home safe. You have no idea how scared I was. What with everything that happened to Lucas and everything. I miss you already. I’m afraid that I’m not much good at writing all this mushy stuff, so I hope that you still realise how much I’m missing you already. Did I already say that? I miss you so much, Mrs Hawkes.

> It was, however, a harrowing ride for poor Lucas. He was in misery despite the fact that the medics >kept him heavily sedated. Thursday looked like she was about to topple over with fatigue but I >couldn’t get her to rest at all.

Harrowing? Where do you come up with these words, Mad??? Give Tee a hug from me will you? I’m always afraid that if I do, she’ll break cause she’s so little. And besides, I think she bites J

I don’t know what to say about Luke. Guess there’s not much to be said. Thursday says he’s tough, so we got to believe that he’s going to be okay. McQueen says that you have his number if Luke needs to talk. Any time. I guess that’s why neither Tee nor Luke have said much to me since they got back. I know it’s a long way and all, and they both must be tired, but I haven’t heard anything. Madi, do you think that Lucas is mad at me? He said before he left that none of it is my fault, but do you think that he’s changed his mind? I hope not. He’s been a good friend, and lets face it, I don’t have so many of them that I can afford to lose one of them. Can you tell him I said hi. Phousse says hi too. And Shane says she hopes you realise what you’ve got yourself into with me. J I think that’s her way of trying to be nice.

>Would you please tell McQueen I said "thanks" for the knife.It was thoughtful of him to buy Reece a >gift, but I was so upset over leaving you that I can’t remember if I thanked him or not. Do you think >it’s okay to let Reece play with the knife at home or should I keep it locked up somewhere?

I told the Colonel what you said and he said to say "You’re welcome." He’s worried about Luke too, so tell Luke he really meant it when he said anytime. I don’t think the Colonel would say something if he didn’t mean it. And I wouldn’t worry about the knife. Reece is too smart to cut himself.

>The girls are screaming in my ears (Kelsey on the left, Avery on the right) to list all of the things they >want to talk to you about when you call them next week. I’m to remind you that you have to use your >monthly call to speak to them since they can’t read yet

I won’t forget. Just tell them I was reading at 6. And that I want to write them lots of letters, so they’d better hurry up and learn to read in case the calls can’t get through.

>They miss you

I miss them too. So much.

>They’re thrilled you’re their new daddy

I’m thrilled too.

>They’re sad because they didn’t get to be flower girls at our wedding (ask Vanessa)

But at least we had a wedding. Do they want to be flower girls at Phousse’s wedding? Cos I don’t think she even has a guy.

>When will you be home

As soon as possible.

>Are you going to bring them a present when you do?

Me. There aren’t exactly lots of shops here. Do you think they’ll mind if I don’t bring anything? Nate says not – but what does he know? Kylen won’t have the baby for another 4 months.

>Can they have a puppy? (say ‘no’)

No J

>When will they get to meet this McQueen that Reece likes so much and why didn’t he send them a >knife? (say ‘they’re too young to have knives’)

They’re too young to have knives. They have to be nine.

>Did you know they’re signed up to play soccer this year? (please say ‘yes’ you heard all about it – if >they knew I forgot to tell you about that while I was there they’d never forgive me

Yes. Go Screaming Weasels J

>Can they call you Daddy?

Oh Mad. Do they really want to? Yeah, that’d be cool.

>Goodbye for now, darling. I love you so much. I love you with all my heart.

I love you Madi. You don’t know how much. I wake up and you’re not there, and I’m counting the days until I can hold you again.

Cooper

~*~

Subject: Re: Missing you

Date: 13 June 2066 04:57:16 +0500

To: Reece Gibson<guest@gibson@lfn.net.co.uk.earth>

From: Lt C Hawkes <hawkescooperltusmc@usssaratogaSCVN-2812

>Hi Coop

Hi Reece

>We’re back in Scotland and it really sucks. L It’s not nearly as fun asthe Saratoga. How old do I >have to be to join the Marines anyway? Tell Kurnel McKween that Reece Gibson says hi and not to >forget his prommis to come and visit. The twins say hi to him to. Call us soon so we can see you and >talk cause I hate writing these stupid emails. L

I miss you Reece. I’ll call as soon as I can. Things have been pretty boring here too, since the peace talks started. Just routine patrols. Still that will give me time to queue for the phone J

>The twins miss you,

I miss them too. Give them a big hug from me.

>P.S. Don’t tell Madi I asked about joining the Marine Core – she might freek out. We can just maybe >suprize her okay?

Reece, I’m not sure that surprising your mom is a good idea. You know how loud she gets when she has a surprise. And I think that if you are a natural born you have to be 18. I checked with Nate and he says yes – 18. So I guess you’ll have to wait a little while. In the meantime, keep studying. You have to be able to spell to be a marine pilot. Trust me, I know what I’m talking about. J

>And I’m taking good care of her and Kelsey and Avery just like I prommised you I would. I’m >goinng to send this now so she won’t be suprized to soon. The twins wish you could comehome.

I never doubted you would, Reece. I wish I could be home soon too. I’ll be home as soon as I can. I love you all.

Cooper

XXXX

(Shane says that these are kisses – but they look kind of weird to me, what do you think?)

~*~

Subject: Re: Missing you

Date: 25 June 2066 02:38:35 –0500

To: Lt. C Hawkes<hawkescooperltusmc@usssaratogaSCVN-2812

From: Madi Hawkes<gibson@lfn.net.co.uk.earth>

My Dearest Cooper,

I’m sorry it’s taken me so long to write back but things are rather hectic here. I’m helping Tee quite a bit with Lucas after school and when I’m not doing that I’m experiencing this horrible rite of parental passage called "Soccer Practice". Why couldn’t the girls be anti-social like Reece? I never had to do this with him - but Blaine is helping me cart them to and fro. The kids are asleep now so at least I can write in peace without them drilling me and yelling things for me to write. You are officially Daddy now, btw. J Except for Reece. I’m not sure how that will work out – right now you’re Coop to him. Maybe he’ll work up to Dad soon.

>Did I already say that? I miss you so much, Mrs. Hawkes.

You can’t say it enough as far as I’m concerned, Mr. Hawkes. I hope it doesn’t distract you from your work there to know that I’m dying here without you. I know you can’t talk about the negotiations but I’m praying so hard that this war will end and you can at least get some shore leave.

>Give Tee a hug from me will you? I’m always afraid that if I do, she’ll break she’s so little. And >besides, I think she bites J

I don’t think Tee’s the hugging kind, baby, but I did tell her you said hello and sent your best wishes. I think you’re right about the biting part too. J

>Madi, do you think that Lucas is mad at me? He said before he left that none of it is my fault, but do >you think that he’s changed his mind? I hope not. He’s been a good friend, and lets face it, I don’t

>have so many of them that I can afford to lose one of them.

Lucas is in a weird way right now. He’s been unusually quiet and not very receptive to anyone, so just give him a little time. How could any of this be your fault? You’re just an innocent person who got caught up in something evil. Don’t worry - he’ll be talking your head off before you know it. We couldn’t be so lucky as to have him minding his own business for more than a week or two at the most. It’s not in his nature.J

> Phousse says hi too. And Shane says she hopes you realise what you’ve got yourself into J I think >that’s her way of trying to be nice.

Shane can be nice??? I’m kidding! I’m kidding! J Tell Shane that if she could see me running my... um... legs off with these children she would be asking you that question. Say hello to everyone and you can give Nate a big hug from me if you think he won’t punch your lights out. ;)

>And I wouldn’t worry about the knife. Reece is too smart to cut himself.

Ah - you new and innocent parents. It’s not himself that I’m worried about Reece cutting (read gutting), darling.

>>They’re sad because they didn’t get to be flower girls at our wedding (ask Vanessa)

>But at least we had a wedding. Do they want to be flower girls at Phousse’s wedding? Cos I don’t

>think she even has a guy.

I meant ask Vanessa what a flower girl is. I didn’t think you’d know. Sorry for underestimating you. J

>>Are you going to bring them a present when you do?

>Me. There aren’t exactly lots of shops here. Do you think they’ll mind if I don’t >bring anything? Nate says not – but what does he know? Kylen won’t have the baby for another 4 months.

He doesn’t know anything apparently but he’ll learn soon enough. They’ll be happy with a paper clip as long as it’s a gift from you…but honey, don’t really bring them a paper clip, okay? I’m kidding again. When I was there I saw a jewellery display to the right in the PX that had some little silver charms hanging on it. Why don’t you get them each a charm (exactly alike and this is important, Hawkes) and I’ll buy them a bracelet for their birthdays. That way you can send them a charm for holidays and birthdays and stuff. Sound okay? Look for some little soccer balls or something.

>>Can they have a puppy? (say ‘no’)

>No J

My hero J

>I love you Madi. You don’t know how much. I wake up and you’re not there, and I’m counting the >days until I can hold you again.

I know just how you feel, sweetheart. I sleep with my arm thrown over your pillow so I can at least pretend you’re here with me at night. That’s when it hurts the worst, you know? Late at night after the kids are asleep and I’m aching for you. I should be making love with you, not crying my eyes out because we’re a zillion miles apart. But enough moaning. I love you so much, honey. Please be careful when you’re flying and don’t take any unnecessary chances. Nate has told me about some of the stunts you’ve pulled.

Reece will write to you soon but he said to give you these - XOXOXO - and to tell you these are hugs and kisses. J (This is my kid???) And he says okay to ‘the surprise’ whatever that means. For your two sakes ‘the surprise’ had better not be a puppy. =:o

Yours forever,

Madi

~*~

Subject: Not much goinng on
Date: 27 June 2066 17:30:29 -0500
To: Lt. C Hawkes <hawkescooperltusmc@usssaratogaSCVN-2812>
From: Reece <quest@gibson@lfn.net.uk.co.earth>

Hi Coop

Not much goinng on here. I’m at Lucass house right now cos Mom is taking Avery and Kelsey to practice and I didn’t want to go . You know how shy Kelsey is, right? Well she’s a real tiger at soccer. She’s kicking everybody’s butt all over the field. Avery is not bad ether but she says its just a game. I told her that was a stupid atitude. Lucas looks really bad and he’s been a slepp the whole time I’ve been here.

I’ve been practicing my spelling but you know I’m really much better at math and science than spelling and reading. Mom says people are ether born good spellers or they’re not and that’s what dictionaries are for. If a teacher can say that do I really need to knock myself out on this spelling ishue? She says she’d like it better if I just learned verb tense and to use contraktions right now.

Mom says I can email you myself instead of putting notes at the end of her letters. Do you two think I don’t know you want to write mushy stuff to each other and you just don’t want me to see it? I’m not stupid you know. That reminds me. There’s this girl at school named Amy Maddingly that keeps tellingme that she thinnks I’m cute. L She does it right on the playground in front of the other guys. I told her if she did that again I was goinng to punch her in the face. Do you think that was a bad thing to say? I have to get her to leave me alone or I’ll be laughed out of school. Now that I’ve said that to her do you think they’ll think I’m chicken if I don’t hit her? Cos now I feel kind of bad about sayinng that too her you know? Got any ideas?

Lucass laptop is really radical. I’ve been playing games on it but thats getting boring. I think maybe I’ll make a webpage or something until Mom gets back. Tee is ether being relly nice to me today or she’s completely out of it. She never lets me play with the computer but today when I asked she just said ‘whatever’. I’m not sure that she actually heard me. I think maybe she’s been crying. Why don’t you talk to her like mom said you could. The next time I come here I’ll bring some picturs and scan them so I can send them to you. Tell Colonell McQueen I said hello. See I told you I’ve been practicing my spelling. Cool. Did you know that you can access records at the cort house from a laptop?

The twins miss you.

Your son

Reece Gibson

~*~

Subject: Re: Missing you more
Date: June 30 2066 04:50:26 +0500
To: Madi Hawkes<gibson@lfn.net.co.uk.earth>
From: Lt. C Hawkes <hawkescooperltusmc@usssaratogaSCVN-2812

My Madi,

>I’m sorry it’s taken me so long to write back but things are rather hectic here. I’m helping Tee quite a >bit with Lucas after school and when I’m not doing that I’m experiencing this horrible rite of parental >passage called "Soccer Practice".

Do I have to do that? Will they be over that by the time I come home? I asked Nate about Soccer and he didn’t know anything. He says he’s a football fan himself. Phousse told me a little bit – apparently when she was in school she used to play. It sounds complicated. I still don’t understand what the ‘offside rule’ is.

>You are officially Daddy now, btw. J Except for Reece. I’m not sure how that will work out – right >now you’re Coop to him. Maybe he’ll work up to Dad soon.

Reece and I will work it out. When he does, can he call me ‘Dad’? I have to say its better than ‘Daddy’. ‘Dad’ at least sounds like I’m a marine.

>>Did I already say that? I miss you so much, Mrs Hawkes.

And I meant it Mad.

>I’m praying so hard that this war will end and you can at least get some shore leave.

You and me both, babe. You and me both.

>Lucas is in a weird way right now. He’s been unusually quiet and not very receptive to anyone, so >just give him a little time.

Are you sure he’s okay? Cos that really doesn’t sound like Luke. It’s been weeks now since he’s bugged me, and I even called him Luke to his face on purpose. Maybe he’s just so whacked he can’t hear me. Tee says they have him on lots of painkillers still, and he’s exhausted. She’s tired too, so tired she’s mailing me too. Kinda weird, but you know she still sounds like her somehow. Know what I mean? Like with you. I don’t need to see who the letters from to know who it’s from. I know that probably doesn’t make sense, but we just got back from a 14 hour flight and I’m not making sense anyway. Are you sure that what they’re giving Lucas is safe? Can you check? I don’t like to bother Tee, but I’d feel better if I knew what they’re giving him isn’t going to screw him up.

>How could any of this be your fault? You’re just an innocent person who got caught up in something >evil. Don’t worry - he’ll be talking your head off before you know it. We couldn’t be so lucky as to >have him minding his own business for more than a week or two at the most. It’s not in his nature.J

(Evil laugh) Sounds like Luke alright. Still, if he’d minded his own business, you and me would never have met. And he wouldn’t be in traction.

>Say hello to everyone and you can give Nate a big hug from me if you think he won’t punch your >lights out. ;)

He’d punch my lights out. How about I hug Mason instead? I think the creep misses you.

>>And I wouldn’t worry about the knife. Reece is too smart to cut himself.

>Ah - you new and innocent parents. It’s not himself that I’m worried about Reece cutting (read >gutting), darling.

You worry too much Madi. I’m sure he’d hide the bodies well enough that no-one would find out.

>I meant ask Vanessa what a flower girl is. I didn’t think you’d know. Sorry for underestimating you. >J

I did ask Phousse. I also told her I thought that they wanted to be flower girls at her wedding. She said by then they’d be old enough to be Maids of Honour. I didn’t like to ask what they were. Is it something military?

>When I was there I saw a jewellery display to the right in the PX that had some little silver charms >hanging on it

When are their birthdays? We never talked about that stuff. I’m a lousy parent. I don’t even know when my kids birthdays are.

>>>Can they have a puppy? (say ‘no’)

>>No J

>My hero J

Always Madi

>I know just how you feel, sweetheart. I sleep with my arm thrown over your pillow so I can at least >pretend you’re here with me at night. That’s when it hurts the worst, you know? Late at nightafter

>the kids are asleep and I’m aching for you. I should be making love with you, not crying my eyes out >because we’re a zillion miles apart. But enough moaning. I love you so much, honey.

I love you too, kitty. And I know what you mean. I wake up and all I can think about is you. I can’t walk past the zero-grav chamber without grinning.

>Please be careful when you’re flying and don’t take any unnecessary chances. Nate has told me about >some of the stunts you’ve pulled.

Nate has a big mouth. Maybe I will hug him. Don’t believe anything he tells you, I fly straight by the rules.

>Reece will write to you soon but he said to give you these - XOXOXO - and to tell you these are

>hugs and kisses. J (This is my kid???) And he says okay to ‘the surprise’ whatever that means. For >your two sakes ‘the surprise’ had better not be a puppy. =:o

It’s not.

Tell Reece I love him. Tell him his spelling still needs work. Tell the girls I love them too. And always remember that I love you more than anything.

Tell Lucas to write if he can’t think – you know what I mean.

I love you babe.

Cooper

~*~

Subject: Re :Not much goinng on
Date: 27 June 2066 17:30:29 -0500
To: Reece <quest@gibson@lfn.net.uk.co.earth>
From: Lt. C Hawkes <hawkescooperltusmc@usssaratogaSCVN-2812>

>Hi Coop

Hi Reece

>Not much goinng on here. I’m at Lucass house right now cos Mom is taking Avery >and Kelsey to practice and I didn’t want to go . You know how shy Kelsey is, right? >Well she’s a real tiger at soccer. She’s kicking everybody’s butt all over the field.

That’s my girl J

>Lucas looks really bad and he’s been a slepp the whole time I’ve been here.

Your mom told me not to worry about him, but I guess maybe I should. Reece, I know Lucas has done his best to look after you and your mom, so now I guess I’m going to have to ask you to return the favour. Keep an eye on him for me will you? I guess you can’t do much more than that. And mind Thursday. If Lucas is real sick, she doesn’t need any grief from you.

>There’s this girl at school named Amy Maddingly that keeps tellingme that she >thinnks I’m cute. L She does it right on the playground in front of the other guys. I >told her if she did that again I was goinng to punch her in the face. Do you think >that was a bad thing to say?

I’m not really up on natural born behaviour Reece, but I know Marines don’t punch people in the face for saying they think you’re cute. Maybe she likes you. Cut her some slack, and ask Lucas, if he ever wakes up J . He must know something about girls.

>Did you know that you can access records at the cort house from a laptop?

Reece, what are you up to? Don’t get into trouble when I’m not there to bail you out.

>The twins miss you.

I miss you all

Cooper

~*~

Subject: Missing you more
Date: 2 July 2066 012:50:26 +0500
To: Lt. C Hawkes <hawkescooperltusmc@usssaratogaSCVN-2812
From: Madi Hawkes<gibson@lfn.net.co.uk.earth>

My dearest Cooper,

>Phousse told me a little bit – apparently when she was in school she used to play. It sounds >complicated. I still don’t understand what the ‘offside rule’ is.

There’s an offside rule???? Maybe I should read these rules. So far all that’s been required of me is to sit in the stands and cheer occasionally. I try to look like I have some clue as to what’s going on but I refuse to yell at my kids if they miss the ball so I think the others suspect I’m defective. Some of these sports-enthusiast parents are nuts! I’m going to be much nicer to their children in my classroom after this experience. Oh, I also have to bring snacks - they call this extortion being a ‘team mom’. J And yes, if you get here soon, you will have to go. Why should I suffer alone??

>Reece and I will work it out. When he does, can he call me ‘Dad’? I have to say >its better than ‘Daddy’. ‘Dad’ at least sounds like I’m a marine.

A note about that - Blaine told me she heard him bragging on the playground that his dad was kicking some serious Chig ass out in space. Of course, she then had to send him to detention for using profanity, but she still thought it was sweet. He’s so thrilled to have a father and trying so hard not to show it that I’m really having to watch my step. When the girls call you Daddy your heart is going to melt, and I doubt that you’ll look very marine-ish then anyway. They’re so cute when they talk about you. J

The adoption counsellor was here today. I hope things are going well. I had to fill out questionnaires about my stand on InVitro rights issues. I wanted to yell ‘for pete’s sake, I’m married to an InVitro – you think I don’t want him to have rights???!!! But of course I didn’t. Lucas says if I blow my top it could hurt the proceedings. This whole thing is getting a bit ridiculous if you ask me. Reece was very good though and I think even she (the dragon lady) was impressed with his behaviour. Don’t repeat that nickname to Reece either!!

>Are you sure he’s okay? Cos that really doesn’t sound like Luke. It’s been weeks now since he’s >bugged me, and I even called him Luke to his face on purpose.

Actually, I’m not sure he’s okay, Cooper. Now don’t start worrying yet, but well…he’s just not himself. Something’s wrong. I get the impression that’s he’s just not here if that makes any sense. I checked with Beth on the meds like you asked and she assures me they’re low dosage and not addictive. He’s sort of shut himself off. He’s friendly enough to me and he’s wonderful with the girls and Reece, but he’s very distant when Thursday’s around. I don’t know what she’s said to him but whatever it was he’s a bit peeved. Let’s give him some time, it’s only been a couple of weeks. I met his physical therapist today and that may be part of the problem too. She makes the adoption counsellor look like an angel. She and Lucas are not bonding well at all. When she started to get him up to walk I had to leave before Reece picked up more language that will land him in detention again.

>(Evil laugh) Sounds like Luke alright. Still, if he’d minded his own business, you and me would >never have met. And he wouldn’t be in traction.

I will always owe him for that I guess - he sent me to you. Do you think he knew somehow? Btw the traction bar is gone and he’s sitting up a bit now - due again to the therapist from hell. J

You flew for 14 hours straight?? L When are you sleeping??

>>Say hello to everyone and you can give Nate a big hug from me if you think he won’t punch your >>lights out. ;)

>He’d punch my lights out. How about I hug Mason instead? I think the creep misses you.

Ha. Ha. Don’t turn your back on him.

>> It’s not himself that I’m worried about Reece cutting (read gutting), darling.

>You worry too much Madi. I’m sure he’d hide the bodies well enough that no-one would find out.

Yes, it’s always sooooooo funny until the court date isn’t it??

>> I meant ask Vanessa what a flower girl is.

>I did ask Phousse. I also told her I thought that they wanted to be flower girls at her wedding. She >said by then they’d be old enough to be Maids of Honour. I didn’t like to ask what they were. Is it >something military?

It’s the female equivalent of a best man. I think what Phousse is saying is that she’s not going to get married for a long time. But I said that too and look at us. J

> When are their birthdays? We never talked about that stuff. I’m a lousy parent. I don’t even >know when my kids’ birthdays are.

Don’t panic, you’ll be a wonderful parent - it just never came up. We don’t know the girls’ birthdate so we chose June 16^th since that’s the day we found them on the orphanage steps. Reece’s birthday is February 27th.

>I can’t walk past the zero-grav chamber without grinning.

Well, I can’t even read the words without swooning, so go easy on me, Hawkes. What if I happened to be reading this in a crowd of people or at work? I use my laptop you know.And how do you think I feel in the kitchen every time I look at the table?? ;p

>>Please be careful when you’re flying and don’t take any unnecessary chances. Nate has told me >>about some of the stunts you’ve pulled.

>Nate has a big mouth. Maybe I will hug him. Don’t believe any of that stuff he tells >you, I fly straight by the rules.

LOL. Nate worries about you. Like I do. Be careful, you goofy Tank. I’m going to be really pissed at you if you get yourself killed and leave me alone with these Screaming Weasels and this surly kid with the knife. And I’ve heard you’re making up your own rules as you go.

>Tell Reece I love him. Tell the girls I love them too.

Consider it done.

>Tell him his spelling needs work.

I’ll definitely pass that on.

> And always remember that I love you more than anything.

Talk’s cheap, cowboy. Come home and show me.

>Tell Lucas to write if he can’t think – you know what I mean.

I know what you mean. Cooper, maybe you should have McQueen give Lucas a call. I’m not saying anything is wrong, but it might not hurt to be on the safe side. I’m going to put a URL on here for Lucas. You talk to McQueen, okay? Tell him before noon is a good time to call – before the therapist gets there. And maybe McQueen shouldn’t mention that I suggested he call. Understand?

All my love, baby.

Be safe,

Madi

P.S. I went shopping today with Blaine. Remember the little gown you like so well? I found something I believe you’ll enjoy even more in the same shop. I’ll wear them to school tomorrow so I’ll think about you all day. Want a hint??? Think plum-coloured lace. ;)

Here’s the addy:

Dr L Masterson<L.Masterson@novascot.ac.uk.earth>

~*~

Subject: Happy Independence Day
Date: 4 July 2066 09:12:50 +0500
To: Lt. C Hawkes <hawkescooperltusmc@usssaratogaSCVN-2812
From: Madi Hawkes<gibson@lfn.net.co.uk.earth

Hi honey,

I’ve got two budding authors here who want to say hello. Reece has informed me that he will write later. He’s growing up too fast. L

Good luck. Here goes.

hi daddy J its me kelsey do yu liik the smilee faces J mommy sed she wudnt chang our werds so yu wud no that we can reed and riit J we mis yu rees wont pla mireens wen yur not heer cos he gets sad cos yur not heer to pla to we luv yu my hnds ar tiird now

hi daddy J its avery weer plang sokr now im a weesl we meld yu a pichur i dru of our teem i can kik reel hrd but not as hrd as kelsey J we wur 6 on our berth day annd we can reed to and rite cud yu rite wen yu wer 6 did you mal us a presnt for our berth day y kant yu be heer with us we luv yu avery hawkesJ

I luv yu to J

Madi

~*~

Subject: Re: Missing you more
Date: July 5, 2066 9:26:36 +0500
To: Madi Hawkes<gibson@lfn.net.co.uk.earth>
From: Lt. C Hawkes <hawkescooperltusmc@usssaratogaSCVN-2812

My Madi,

I’m really tired so I’m just going to write a little. I’m going to call the day after tomorrow if I can get to the phone so try to be home.

I loved the letters from the girls and I showed them to the ‘Cards. They all liked them too. I sure miss those kids.

>When the girls call you Daddy your heart is going to melt and I doubt that you’ll look very marine-ish >then anyway. They’re so cute when they talk about you. J

Don’t let them forget about me, Mad. If this weird warm feeling I get when I read their letters is anything to go by, then I think my heart is already melting. I was feeling really sick yesterday thinking about you, all sad and mopey. Shane said I was something called ‘homesick’ and that I’d get over it. She says it won’t really hurt you, so don’t worry. I didn’t tell her but I didn’t get over it. I think I’m just getting used to feeling this way whenever I think about how bad I want to hold you.

>The adoption counsellor was here today Lucas says if I blow my top it could hurt the proceedings.

Listen to Luke and say whatever you have to to make this adoption stuff work. It makes me feel even sicker to think about someone else raising our kids. Tell Luke I said hello and that it wouldn’t kill him to talk to me once in a while.

>You flew for 14 hours straight?? L When are you sleeping??

What’s sleep?? I’m kidding you now. J Don’t worry about me, Madi. Just take care of yourself and the kids. I’m fine. If you want to do something for me, you could send me some CDs. Thanks for the cookies and stuff you and the kids mailed, too. I passed them around and everyone says thanks. Will Mason seemed especially impressed. What is with him and you anyway?

>> And always remember that I love you more than anything.

>Talk’s cheap, cowboy. Come home and show me.

I intend to, babe. If you knew how much I think about doing just that you’d wonder how I get any school work done. BTW I tested out of all that core math stuff so that saves some time. This college stuff isn’t so bad now that I’ve started it. McQueen is pleased and he asked about you and Reece yesterday. Why don’t you let Reece write him a snail-mail note? You know how it is for InVitros on mail day.

>>Tell Lucas to write if he can’t think – you know what I mean.

> And maybe McQueen shouldn’t mention that I suggested he call. Understand?

I talked to the colonel and he’ll get with Lucas on a chat line. Col. McQueen’s been through some rough times and I think he can help Luke if he’ll let him. He’s always been there for me and the ‘Cards.

>All my love, baby.

That means everything to me, Madi. Tell the kids I love them too and give them hugs for me, even the surly one. J

>Want a hint??? Think plum-coloured lace. ;)

You should have seen Nate’s face when I asked him what colour plum is. J He said for you to quit sending me stuff like this as long as I’m his wingman. He doesn’t want my mind to wander. J

I love you Madi

Cooper

~*~

Subject: Hi Madi
Date: July 12 2066 13:23:45 -0500
To: Madi Hawkes<gibson@lfn.net.co.uk.earth
From: Cpt. N West <westnathancptusmc@usssaratogaSCVN-2812

Hi Madi

I thought I’d drop you a line while things were quiet here. Cooper’s fine – so don’t worry. That’s not why I’m writing. I was really writing to thank you for the help you’ve been to Kylen. I know it’s difficult for her being so far from me when she’s having our baby, and I’m glad she has you there for support. It’s hard for me too. I guess what I’m saying is that I’m really relieved that my best friend’s wife gets on so well with my wife.

I’d say you wouldn’t recognise Coop these days, but I have a sneaking suspicion that you would. I think that you always suspected that our friend is a marshmallow underneath. He’s started to pin pictures and letters up above his bunk, and he went all mushy when he got the girls’ letter. Phousse says to tell you that if she’s forced to read it one more time, you’ll be husbandless. J She’s just kidding. She melted as well. Shane rolled her eyes, like she does, but I think she’s read it without complaint about half a dozen times anyway. Shane is a sucker for cute kids J And those kids of yours are cute. Or should I say yours and Cooper’s. Hope my kid is half as cute and as smart. (Coop told me to say that J )

Cooper says that Lucas isn’t too hot at the moment. I suppose that’s very understandable. I remember how difficult it was for Paul, and he was a trained marine rather than a civilian. That sounds really arrogant doesn’t it? I didn’t mean it like that. Anyway, tell Lucas that our prayers are with him.

That’s all I really wanted to say. Say hi to the kids for me.

Love,

Nathan

~*~

Subject: Hi Nate J
Date: 18 July 2066 02:13:05+0500
To: Cpt. N West <westnathancptusmc@usssaratogaSCVN-2812
From: Madi Hawkes<gibson@lfn.net.co.uk.earth

Hi Nate,

I’m so glad you wrote! It’s always good to hear from you and to get your assurances that Cooper is doing well. I know what you mean about how hard it is to be separated from the person you love. I think this is the worst thing I’ve ever been through and I know Kylen feels the same way.

>I was really writing to thank you for the help you’ve been to Kylen. I guess what I’m saying is that I’m >really relieved that my best friend’s wife gets on so well with my wife.

Anything for my husband’s best friend, Nathan. Kylen and I are becoming friends too. That’s surprising because we really don’t have that much in common except for having husbands on the front, but we always have lots to chat about. When I first met her I thought she was very shy, but she’s getting to know me now and she’s opening up a lot. It’s nice to have another person to gripe with about all the rationing that’s going on here - sugar, chocolate, and chewing gum are worth their weight in gold right now. At least we still have caffeine-laden colas or I’m sure there would be a huge rebellion. J

Kylen and I are trying to find a weekend that we can get together. She has a working conference in London in a few weeks and I think I’ll take the children down and spend the afternoon with her. That should give her a good glimpse of what she’s let herself in for. J There’s a baby shop I want to take her where they have the most darling little clothes. Shopping for the baby stuff is the fun part.

I’ve been spending an hour each week at the military ward in the local hospital; all the teachers are doing that as part of our civilian project. I mainly write and read letters to the soldiers who can’t do that for themselves, so I know some of the worries that go through soldiers' heads. Worries like – ‘is the guy working next to my wife flirting with her’ and worse, ‘is she liking it?’ So I want to assure you that all Kylen talks about is you. How much she misses you, how funny you are, how smart you are, how brave you are…ad nauseum. It’s really annoying because I want to talk about Cooper. J Oh, and the only thing she says about the guy that works next to her is that she thinks he’s trying to steal her research.

>I’d say you wouldn’t recognize Coop these days, but I have a sneaking suspicion that you would. I think >that you always suspected that our friend is a marshmallow underneath.

You’re right about the marshmallow part. Although if we hadn’t been thrown together in such close quarters during the time I was tutoring him, I never would have known that underneath all that attitude there was a funny, sweet guy. Until I got to know him I thought he was just a surly jerk. J

>Phousse says to tell you that if she’s forced to read it one more time, you’ll be husbandless. J She’s just >kidding. She melted as well. Shane rolled her eyes, like she does, but I think she’s read it without >complaint about half a dozen times anyway. Shane is a sucker for cute kids J And those kids of yours >are cute. Or should I say yours and Cooper’s. Hope my kid is half as cute and as smart. (Coop told me to >say that J )

Say hello to Vanessa and Shane for me and please assure them that anytime they want to experience our (I’m still not used to that yet) cute kids on a one-to-one level that we’re perfectly willing to share them. J I have a hunch that you may think your kid is much cuter and many times smarter than ours.

>Cooper says that Lucas isn’t too hot at the moment. I suppose that’s very understandable. I remember >how difficult it was for Paul, and he was a trained marine rather than a civilian. That sounds really >arrogant doesn’t it. I didn’t mean it like that. Anyway, tell Lucas that our prayers are with him.

He’s going to be fine. The marine part didn’t sound arrogant at all, but I’m not sure fear really knows any social boundaries; and fear is the AIs weapon of choice. I’m sure he’ll appreciate the prayers. You should pray for the physical therapist as well, I think she might need some Divine intervention before she’s finished with Lucas. Or should I say when he’s finished with her. He’s the one seeing a therapist but I’ve got a feeling that the poor physio will need one before long J

The kids said ‘hi’ back and Reece says to watch out for Cooper. You watch your six, Nathan.

Sorry for the long letter but it’s raining like crazy and I’ve been trapped in the house with three kids and a cat all weekend and I needed an outlet. J

Love,

Madi

~*~

Lucas? Lucas answer me!

Lucas, I know you’re there – I need your help. I have a big favor to ask.

Please, Lucas!

Oh, all right! What is it, Cooper? I’m not exactly free to chat right this minute, you know?

Yeah, I know you’re doing your therapy with that woman you don’t like, but it’s really important, Luke.

Well, here I am so talk. Quickly!

I need you to get a message to Madi for me. I’ve got a shore leave to Earth - but the closest transport I can get to her is London. But if she can get a train out this afternoon we’d have at least twelve hours together before I have to report back to the ship. I called the school, but that son of a bitch, Richards, answered the phone and he won’t let me talk to her – said she can’t be away from her class. So… can you help me out?

Lucas’s voice was much kinder this time. Of course, Cooper. That wasn’t such a big favor, I’ll have her on the next train.

Well… the big favor is… will you keep the kids? Cooper rushed on before he could respond. It’s not that I don’t want to see them – you know how crazy I am about them – but I just need to be with Madi a little while alone, to talk.

Oh, right. I’m sure you’ll get lots of talking done. Lucas noted sardonically. Forget it, Cooper. Thursday’s on the ship and we still haven’t resolved the courthouse disaster. In my line of work I need to keep a low profile. Your kid hacking into confidential records is not conducive to that--especially when he does it with my computer. No way.

Cooper’s thoughts, when they came to Lucas this time held a new emotion, one that he rarely felt from Cooper - despair. Luke, you can’t tell Madi this, but they’re shipping us out as soon as we get back from leave. Scutts going around that the mess is going to be serving steak and real eggs.

Well if I were you I’d be glad to hear that – those powered eggs I ate there were terrible.

If you were a marine that would scare the hell out of you, because then you’d know that’s what they call the Last Supper. They’re giving us this leave and the good chow because they don’t think we’re coming back. If I don’t see Madi this time, Lucas, I may not again – ever.

But Cooper, the talks are supposedly going very well. I thought activity had slowed down.

Chig activity is down a little but don’t be fooled, Lucas. These talks might fall through at any second and no one’s giving up any ground in the mean time. Besides, there’s something they’re keeping from everyone back home. There are pockets of resistance all over the place here - and it’s not Chigs.

Lucas felt his blood run cold and he wanted to end their conversation that second, but he forced himself to say the hated word. Silicates?

Yeah, that’s one reason why you can’t say anything to Madi. She’d freak out. Course that’s why they’re not saying anything to anyone. The AIs are really pissed about the possibility of peace between the Chigs and us. They were hoping to barter their way back to Earth with that Sewell Fuel they were mining on Smyrnas. You know, the planet where you were held.

I remember that planet vividly, Cooper.

Now that the Chigs know we have the fuel, and they know we’ll hit them where it hurts the most, they’re ready to deal. The AIs are already starting to cause trouble over the loss of their trump card. If they hadn’t messed up and nabbed you they might have got away with the mining operation – but we’re holding on to part of the planet and I have a feeling we’re about to go for the big push for the whole thing. The AIs are going to be shit out of luck, with us and the Chigs, and that’s the thing that’s got everyone spooked. You know what they resort to when things aren’t going their way.

Terrorism.

Right. So the government is keeping a lid on it for now but don’t be surprised if they start up some weird things like blackouts at night and air raid drills. That won’t be for Chigs, that will be to keep people safe from the silicates. Lucas, I want you to promise me that you’ll watch over Madi and the kids for me.

I always do, Cooper. I was doing that long before you and Madi met, you know.

I know that and you know that I’m trying to say something entirely different - you’re just sticking your head in the sand. What I mean is…if I don’t come back… I want you to promise me that you’ll always be there for them. It’s not just the war, though that’s bad enough. There’s still Hayden. Between her and the war, I may never live to see them grow up; but I’d sleep better at night knowing you’ll be there to take care of them.

You have my word and that’s all I’m saying about that. As far as I’m concerned a man with three children doesn’t have the luxury of dying, Cooper, so just plan to be back here soon. And okay, I’ll take care of the kids – but just this one time. Next time you’re on your own. Only for you and Madi would I do this and believe me – you will live to regret it.

Cooper smiled to himself at that.

You do this for me and you can ask anything, Lucas. Um…there is one more thing I’d like you to mention to Madi for me… uh…

Oh for pete’s…stop! I got the thought. You know, Coop, doing this is like thinking about my sister having sex. It’s not a comfortable thing.

Sorry.

Okay, okay, stop sulking. I’ll tell her wear the dark purple, lacy thing. Now, are you satisfied? The things I do for you…

Lucas could actually feel Cooper grinning.

You’re a pal, Luke. Tell Madi I’ll meet her at a place called the Monterrey. It’s at 417 Henley Street, room 220. And tell her I love her and…

Enough already! She knows you love her, etc…etc… The question is can she call you there to confirm these plans?

No, my transport is taking off in 20 mikes. If she won’t come you can just tell me with the head thing.

Lucas sighed at his naivete at the depth of Madi’s love for him.

Cooper, if I know Madi - and I do – neither hell nor high water will keep her away from you. Have a great time…talking. And Cooper – be careful.

~*~

"…and remember they can stay up ‘til 10:00 tonight since it’s Friday but they do have a game tomorrow so they need their rest." Madi deposited the children’s overnight bags with a huff of relief and continued to rattle off her list to a wheel-chair-bound Lucas. "And no matter what they tell you they certainly do take baths on the weekend, and you have to say ‘use soap’ or they won’t. Here’s Avery’s Pooh and Kelsey’s Tigger. Reece will keep them entertained and on schedule, that kid’s much more organized than I am." Lucas watched with an indulgent smile as Madi surveyed the luggage and stuffed animals and nodded to herself. She was bouncing with excitement and it wore him out - if only he could work up such enthusiasm over something.

"Madi, I know how to take care of these children, now get the hell out of here and go meet Cooper. I don’t want to have to listen to him boo-hooing if you miss your train."

Madi sat her purse down by the door and reached him in three strides. She cupped his face in her hands and planted a smacking kiss on each cheek.

"Lucas, you are the bestest friend in the whole world. Thank you, thank you, thank you for this! I swear I’ll do the same for you and Tee someday. I promise."

Lucas snorted derisively but made no other comment and Madi again felt a stab of unease. Lucas simply did not not talk about Thursday. Usually any mention of her brought a smile, and at least a few words about what she’d said the last time he’d talked to her; but for the past few weeks he’d been oddly silent.

"Get out of here."

She nodded and grabbed her bag on the way out the door. "You have my number if anything goes wrong. Blaine will drop them off tonight and pick them up at 10:00 tomorrow for their game. I think that does it."

Lucas gave in to his usual brotherly desire to needle her. Thursday always said it was his way of showing affection for Madi. He clamped down on those thoughts, forcing them from his mind and concentrated on Madi.

"I hope you didn’t forget to wear that purple thing."

Madi grinned in delight at her brief glimpse of the old Lucas.

"It’s plum and I sure didn’t, sweetie. Wanna see?" She waggled her eyebrows suggestively and laughed evilly at the blush he couldn’t control.

"Hussy," he scolded fondly.

"Prude," she threw over her shoulder. Then she stuck her head back in. "I take that back – a prude would never have done some of the thing’s Thursday’s told me about. Take care of my kids and yourself." Madi laughed again at the look on his face as she closed the door on his spluttering.

~*~

Madi was shaking with a combination of excitement and fear by the time the train pulled into King’s Cross Station. The neon lights that greeted her did nothing to ease her excitement. She barely noticed them although at any other time she would surely have winced in sympathy at the way they overwhelmed the old architecture. She fought her way through the milling crowd with dismay. There were people everywhere, and so many uniforms that Madi wondered who was fighting the war. Right then, though, she had just one thought in her head – Cooper, and that in a few minutes she’d see him. He’d left instructions that they’d meet at the hotel. It was the thought of what would happen when she got there that was making her knees grow weak.

She’d scrounged an A-Z of London from Lucas’ study when she’d dropped the kids off. The only downside was that Thursday wasn’t there to help him watch over them. Lucas had looked tired, but she’d managed to rationalise her need to leave the kids with him anyway. It was amazing at what the mind could do when it needed to. Occupied with thoughts of her kids she barely registered the taxi journey.

She was on the street outside of the hotel. She prayed that she wasn’t there first – she didn’t think that she’d be able to wait for him if he late. Madi was so desperate to see him that her heart literally ached.

The room was pre-booked. She was thankful for that. No problems with registering –Cooper had taken care of everything and he’d already signed in. She jotted her name down quickly, two signatures below his, glad that she didn’t have to do anything more complex. Her mouth was so dry she could barely speak, and she was so excited she could barely remember her name.

Cooper met her in the corridor outside of the room and then they were in each other’s arms, mouths open, tongues swirling, bodies pressed tightly together, oblivious of the stares that attracted. His kisses rained down upon her face and mouth. Her bag dropped to the floor beside them, ignored for now while more important things were dealt with. Cooper grasped the back of her head, pulling her even closer and telling her without words what he had planned for her.

"You know, that’s why they have rooms." The jest from a complete stranger passing them in the corridor jolted the pair of them out of their reverie. Madi blushed hotly, the colour staining her cheeks, matching her already swollen and red lips. Cooper merely grinning a goofy grin before grabbing both her and the bag and almost dragging them to their room.

Cooper stared down at her, overcome with emotion. "I was so scared you wouldn’t come, Mad."

"Don’t be an idiot, Hawkes," Madi growled into his mouth as she pulled his head back down to hers.

They didn’t make it to the bed, Cooper ripped off her blouse almost before they were through the door, while her fingers were busy with the tie and buttons of his khaki uniform shirt. As soon as his chest was bare to her gaze, she busied herself with nipping and licking at it, tracing her way across his torso with a combination of kisses and tastes. He smelled and tasted so good, a flavour she’d almost forgotten and one she couldn’t get enough of.

"Madi," he growled, twisting his fingers in her hair and dragging her face up to meet his. His kisses were bruising and hard, arousing an equal passion in her, before his lips moved down her neck to find the hollow of her throat. Both of them were breathing raggedly now, aroused and ready. His fingers, suddenly clumsy with need, ripped at her skirt and it soon joined her blouse on the floor. Hers fumbled equally desperately with his belt and zip. Soon, she had freed his erection and he groaned against her recaptured mouth as she ran one hand roughly along its length.

His fingers slipped beneath the fabric of her panties, and she felt the twitch in his silken length as he realised just how wet for him she was. He growled something unintelligible and twisted his hand, the delicate fabric giving way under the onslaught of his strong fingers.

And then, at last, he was inside her, pinning her against the wall while she wrapped her legs around his waist and sank her fingers into his tousled hair. She matched him thrust for thrust, her passion mounting with his until she thought she would melt. Her wild cry was lost in the hollow of his throat as she pressed herself as close to him as was physically possible.

Realising that Madi had climaxed, Cooper’s thrusts became harder and more desperate as he sought to join her. She thought that she’d scream with the pleasure of it as he pounded into her, before finally tensing and coming inside her with an equally wild cry.

They held each other for a long moment, their hearts pounding in unison, before he let her gently slide down him until her feet touched the floor, and they stood there arms still wrapped around each other, lost in each other’s touch.

~*~

Madi lay dreamily in the bed, her head on Cooper’s chest, her hand drawing lazy doodles over his stomach. She smiled lazily as her finger hit a ticklish spot and the tight muscles under her hand rippled in protest. They’d finally dozed off after what seemed like hours of love-making and Madi had woken to see that the pale light of dawn was brightening the sky. The sight saddened her, it meant that their time was drawing to a close. She pressed a sad kiss to Cooper’s chest and felt his hand tighten in her hair, stoking the strands of curls.

"Your hair’s longer." Cooper’s muffled words, spoken into warm curve of her neck, sent shivers of anticipation down her spine. She’d been hoping he’d wake up soon.

She ran her finger up his arm and over his shoulder, tugging on the short strands over his ear. "No time to get to the hairdresser. Yours is shorter. Why are you keeping it so cropped? McQueen riding you about it?"

Cooper stiffened momentarily at the question, remembering that some of the missions he’d been involved with lately were of the same nature as those on Tigris. He had to constantly be on his guard, even McQueen didn’t get the scoop on those activities. "Uh, no, McQueen’s cool with my hair any length, it’s just easier to take care of this way." Cooper pushed himself up on his elbow and smiled sleepily into Madi’s eyes. "Are we going to waste my time here talking about hair or are we going to make it count?" Madi reached for him hungrily, pulling Cooper’s head down to her for a passionate kiss and forgetting all about his odd haircut. Cooper sighed in relief, and went willingly into her embrace.

~*~

By the time it was time for Cooper to rendezvous with his transport back, Madi’s mood had changed from elation to despair. No matter how much she looked forward to a reunion with her husband, seeing him again and parting from him again within such a short space of time was agony. She was blinking back tears as they stood at the station waiting for the train which would tear him away from her.

"Hey, babe. Don’t cry," Cooper whispered in her ear as he pulled her closer. Instead of calming her tears, the words made her grasp on her emotions weaken. It was all she could do not to break down completely, and her control even over that was tenuous to say the least.

Cooper said nothing more – just pulled her tighter. He was close to tears himself, and only the hostile stares from the porter, who had obviously spotted the fact that he was an InVitro, stopped him. He didn’t want Madi exposed to anything, and right now he suspected that the only reason that the guy wasn’t causing trouble was the fact that he, Cooper, looked like a hard-ass marine. An image that would be ruined by tears.

He rubbed his hand absently over his pate. While he could understand the need for a short crop from a military perspective, both for appearance and practical reasons, it did leave him feeling very exposed, his navel in full view of anyone who cared to take a close look.

Madi heaved in his arms, her control now almost totally gone. He said nothing, just pulled her closer and rocked her gently. Around the platform he could see other soldiers going through the same routine. Mostly British by the looks of their uniform, but scattered here and there American and French uniforms. All of them being torn from their loved ones. In the corner he could see a young man, barely old enough to shave, standing with an older man and woman. The woman was openly crying while the older man and the young soldier tried vainly to comfort her. A rookie and his parents obviously. Cooper felt a brief pang of regret as he remembered that when he first went off to war he’d had no one to grieve at his going. No one to care if he lived or dies. Still, that had changed now. He hugged Madi hard again.

The harsh whistle of the train arriving interrupted his thoughts. These Brits with their nostalgia confused him. Who the hell needed whistles now when steam was a distant memory? Still, he was grateful for the few minutes warning.

Madi was openly sobbing now.

"Hey," he said, shaking her gently. "That’s no way for a marine to behave."

"I’m not a marine," she hiccuped.

"Next best thing," he stated with a confidence he didn’t feel. "A marine’s wife. You keep crying like that and you’ll have red eyes when you get home. I don’t want any snotty e:mails from Reece asking what I did to you. He was almost snotty last night when we called."

Madi hiccuped again. "He was just snotty cos I wouldn’t let him come with me. He wanted to see you too but I knew we’d need time alone. He’ll get over it."

"You’ve got the girls presents, haven’t you?"

She sighed heavily. "Yes, Cooper. I wouldn’t dare forget anything from you to them. They’d never forgive me." She gave a tremulous smile, which heartened Cooper, weak though it was. He pulled her into his arms again.

"I love you, Mad." His voice shook slightly.

"Be careful."

"Always." He kissed her passionately and then he was gone. She watched the train until it was out of sight, and then started the long trudge home.

~*~

Mrs M Hawkes
The Cottage
Tarbert
Argylle
Scotland

30 August 2066

My Madi,

This may be my last letter for a while since word just came down that we’re shipping out at 0430. That’s 4:30 am to you, civvie. J It’s 2200 here now and lights out, but I’m under my blanket with my field light writing this the old fashioned way. I can’t sleep for remembering how good it was to hold you, to make love to you. I miss you and the kids like crazy. I can’t tell you where we’re going cause they haven’t told us yet. Besides, if I wrote it down the censors would catch it anyway. I don’t even know if we’re flying or not since McQueen’s had us packing one kind of pack after another from a seventy-two hour pack to light gear. Between that and all the first-aid refresher courses we’re about ready to go McKendrick, but at least we’ve had lots of time on the shooting range too. Shane says McQueen’s just trying to keep our minds occupied.

The only thing on my mind is you, Mad, and what I’d give to be there with you right now. I wish I had the words to tell you what all you mean to me - what I’ve got now because of you. Things like love and a home and a family. Things I never even thought I could hope for. ‘Thanks’ sounds so small for all that, so I guess I’ll have to spend the rest of my life showing you how glad I am that you gave me this.

Tell Lucas hello for me and watch over him. I’ve been talking to him so I know how messed up he is right now. I see Thursday about every night after class but I’m too tired to talk long. She seems to be spending a lot of time with McQueen so at least she’s not bored.

Keep our kids safe. I hear it made the papers that the AIs are threatening terrorist action if the peace talks succeed, so be really careful. Luke has promised to keep an eye on you all so I feel better about that anyway. If anything should happen to me, I want you to let Lucas and Thursday help you out. I know how stubborn you can be, but you need them.

Hugs the kids for me a long time tonight - I’m missing them more than usual. And you too, Mad.

I love you babe,

Cooper

~*~

"Thank you so much for having us over, Mrs. Hagen. It was a lot of fun and dinner was wonderful, as usual; but I guess we’d better get back. I have to get the girls ready for school tomorrow." Madi placed her napkin by her dinner plate and stood up, only to grab the table with both hands to stop the sudden swimming of her head.

"Madi? Are you alright, dear?" Thursday’s mother hurried to get up herself and placed her arm around Madi’s waist in support. "You’re white as a sheet."

Madi took a deep breath and slowly opened her eyes. She smiled a bit sheepishly at her hostess. "I guess I just got up too quickly. That’s been happening a bit lately, maybe I’m developing an inner-ear imbalance or something."

"Well, Beth can look you over while you’re here. You have your bag with you don’t you, Beth?"

Beth gave Madi a considering look and did a few calculations in her head. "I think I have all we’ll need with me." She smiled at the confusion in Madi’s eyes and the knowing look in her mother’s as she went for her medical case.

~*~

"What did you say?"

"I said you’re not sick - you’re pregnant." Beth waited for the inevitable response.

"I can’t be pregnant, you’ve made a mistake, Beth." The older woman smiled, if she had a gold coin for every time she’d heard that she could retire to the tropics.

"Madi, I did a blood test on you and the baby and ran a DNA scan. You’re pregnant. I can tell you what color eyes the baby’s going to have."

Madi looked intrigued despite her shock. "You can tell all that from pricking my finger and that little machine??"

Beth grinned sadistically. "I could have told that from a drop of spit but it pisses me off to have to work on the weekends. I feel much better now that I’ve inflicted some pain." Beth was back to her usual cheerful self once more. "Technology is not for wimps, Madi. Want to know what the sex of the baby is?"

Madi took a deep calming breath and blew it out slowly, still a bit addled. "But Beth, I had birth control injections. They’re supposed to last for three months and a little bit over." Thursday’s sister reached for her clipboard and punched in the necessary chain of symbols to pull up Madi’s permanent file. She read a moment then nodded wisely.

"And they do, Madi, when you bother to take the injections."

"But I took the injection at the end of May, see I have it written down right here in my notebook because I’m so forgetful. ‘See GP for BC’. That stands for birth control. I checked my calendar before I left to meet Cooper in London. I should have still been protected." Madi’s righteous tone suggested that Beth’s conclusions were totally at fault.

"Well your records say, ‘Cancelled 5/25/2066. Will reschedule.’ Which you obviously didn’t." Beth neatly tossed back. "You know, your doctor may not have told you this, but the injections only work if you bother to take them."

Madi thought hard for a moment. "Of course – Lucas’…. accident. I had to leave so fast I couldn’t make the appointment and then when I got back I never thought of it. Cooper was in space and I was so sad, I guess I had other things on my mind."

"So it’s all Lucas’s fault right?" Beth joked.

"Well, it’s enough his fault that he can help baby sit occasionally, I’ll say that." Madi grumbled. Suddenly she grinned in delight as the truth of the situation came home to her.

"I’m really pregnant? There’s no mistake?"

"You’re really pregnant, Madi. Of course it’s very early and things can happen, but given a normal course you and Cooper are going to be parents again in the early summer. Congratulations. How do you think our tough marine’s going to take the news?"

Madi grinned. "Lying in a puddle of his own cold sweat I’d guess. Poor darling. I’ve kind of thrown him into the deep end of this parenting thing before he was really able to swim."

Beth had no such sympathies. "Cooper’s as tough as they come, Madi, and from what I’ve seen he’s swimming just fine. I can’t believe the changes I’ve seen in Reece these past months. He was actually nice to me tonight at dinner."

Madi grinned at that. "You have to anticipate a little hostility from Reece, Beth. You’re the type of person that sticks him with needles. What do you expect?"

"I’m not his doctor except on those rare and unlucky occasions when I’m attending in Accident and Emergency after one of his escapades goes wrong. And I expect you to keep your appointment in two weeks, that’s what. You think I don’t know where Reece gets his phobia of doctors and needles? Between you and Cooper it’s a wonder the doctor doesn’t have to restrain him to get him in here." Madi eyed her warily.

"What happens in six weeks?"

"Your obstetrician will do an ultrasound, totally painless." Beth waited for her sigh of relief to drop the bad news. "And take a few drops of blood just to make sure my initial readings are correct."

Madi snorted. "Sure. Why don’t you tell me the truth, Beth, and say a few gallons?"

Beth rolled her eyes, "Okay, he’ll just need a few gallons, but I’m sure that he’ll give you a lollypop afterwards."

Madi considered that. "Grape?"

"Done, and since you’re coming in anyway how about bringing Lucas along as well. He’ll be due for his check-up then as well and I promised his specialist I’d keep an eye on that hip. I can do that while you’re meeting your obs and gynae guy."

"Couldn’t you do it?" Madi wheedled. Beth sighed heavily.

"For the last time, Madi, I am a trauma specialist. I am not your family doctor – and I haven’t had anything to do with pregnant women since I was a resident." Her tone took any heat out of the words. It was an old discussion. "Besides, I’ll have my hands full with Lucas Masterson. He is not a model patient."

Madi nodded but avoided Beth’s probing glance. "What’s up with him anyway, Madi? Tee won’t say a word."

"I don’t know, Beth, but I don’t think he’d like me discussing his problems with anyone else."

Beth sighed at Madi’s closed expression. "You know I’ve never understood what it is about him that inspires such loyalty. First Thursday, then you. I can remember when he was just a delinquent computer-hacker who didn’t care about anyone but himself."

"That’s your problem, Beth. You’re letting your old misconceptions keep you from seeing what a fine man Lucas has turned out to be. And Beth, it’s not that he never cared, it’s that he always cared too much. Don’t be fooled by that cool exterior. It’s a defence mechanism." Beth nodded.

"So Thursday keeps telling me. Well, just bring the surly paragon with you and make sure you make that appointment as well."

Madi nodded glumly. More doctors. Great!

~*~

Subject: Good news
Date: 27 September 2066 09:27:26 +0500
To: Lt. C Hawkes <hawkescooperltusmc@usssaratogaSCVN-2812
From: Madi Hawkes<gibson@lfn.net.co.uk.earth>

Baby,

I’ve got some news for you…