Time Away
Alan wakes up as the sun is just starting to come in the French doors of the bedroom. Monica is sleeping peacefully in his arms. Alan starts placing gentle little kisses on Monica’s neck and Monica begins to wake up and respond.
Monica: umm I like the way you think my darling.
Alan: You inspire me.
Monica giggling: Really? Show me.
Alan: It would be my pleasure.
Alan pulls Monica in close and begins to kiss her neck moving to her shoulders then up to her lips while his hand caress her back and sides. Monica responds to Alan’s kissing and caressing with kisses down Alan’s neck and to his ear while her hands playfully explore his chest.
9 am Alan and Monica are lying happily entangled together smiling.
Alan: Guess we are late for work again.
Monica giggling: That’s ok I will take care of it with the boss.
Alan laughing: Oh really now that should be easy for you since I would let you have or do anything.
Monica: Really anything?
Alan: I have an idea, since I am the boss maybe I should excuse us from work today and we should just stay here just like this all day.
Monica: Well as nice as that sounds, I think before we set tongues wagging at the hospital we better get moving.
Alan as he kisses Monica’s cheek: Race you to the shower.
Monica: (She knows she can’t let him win since he closer to the bathroom) Alan, wait.
Alan: What?
Monica: Just one thing.
She leans into Alan and touches his cheek and with her hands turns his face to hers and gently kisses him. She turns things passionate quickly and rolls on top of him and continues to kiss him. Suddenly, she rolls right over him and runs for the bathroom giggling the whole way there. Alan chases right behind.
Monica giggling: I win!
Alan: You cheat!
Monica laughing: But I still beat you! Now what was the prize to the winner?
As she allows Alan to pull her into his open arms.
Alan: I will wash your back in the shower. Beyond that it will have to wait since we are already late for the hospital.
Monica pouting: Ok.
Early evening at the hospital.
Alan walks into Monica’s office but she is not there. He walks down to the nurse’s station and sees Bobbie so he walks up to her.
Alan: Have you seen Monica lately?
Bobbie: Monica was paged to OR a few minutes ago.
Alan sadly: Well I am headed home for the night.
Bobbie: Goodnight.
In the OR, Monica is performing a delicate by-pass.
4 hours later. Monica just finished closing and is now headed to talk to Mrs. Simon and give her the news on her husband.
Monica: Mrs. Simon?
Mrs. Simon: Yes.
Monica: Your husband made it through surgery and is in recovery right now. In a little while we will move him to ICU and you can see him once we get him moved.
Mrs. Simon teary and upset: Is David going to be ok?
Monica hugging Mrs. Simon: I think so. He made it through surgery and is stable in recovery right now. I am going back to recovery to check on David now and as soon as he is moved to ICU I will make sure a nurse comes and gets you that way you can see him for yourself.
Mrs. Simon: Thank-you.
Monica: Your welcome.
2 hours later. Monica drags herself to the nurse’s station.
Monica to Amy: I am finally going home. Anything changes in Mr. Simon’s condition page me immediately.
Amy: Ok. Goodnight.
Monica: Thanks Amy.
Monica walks into the house and it is 1 am. She drags herself upstairs into the shower and emerges ready for bed 5 minutes later. She crawls into bed and snuggles up to Alan and falls immediately asleep.
5am the phone rings.
Alan: Dr. Quartermaine.
Audrey: Alan can you and Monica come in there was a major pile up on the freeway and we are calling all available doctors in.
Alan: We will be right there.
Alan to Monica: Sorry but that was the hospital and all doctors are being called in to help with a major accident.
Monica: Ok lets go.
6pm Monica is headed to her office to do some paperwork before she can go home. Alan is headed to Monica’s office to see if she is ready to go home. They get to her office about the same time.
Alan: Monica you look exhausted.
Monica indignant: Thank-you very much.
Alan: Settle down, I just meant maybe you could use a back rub.
Monica slightly smiling: Nice recovery.
Alan: Ready to go home?
Monica: I have so much paperwork piled up on my desk I can’t leave yet.
Alan pulling Monica into a hug: The boss says it can wait until morning. Now come on lets go.
Monica giggling: Letting that boss thing go to your head aren’t you? But you convinced me anyway, boss. Let’s go home.
Alan wraps his arm around Monica’s waist and they head to the car.
They arrive home and hear Edward yelling in the den.
Monica: Think we can escape this battle?
Alan: Certainly, let’s just run for our room and lock the door.
Monica eyeing Alan and smiling: I like the way you think!
Alan returning the gaze: I already knew that! Ready?
Monica: Run!
They race up the stairs laughing quietly the entire run when they finally make it to their room they shut the bedroom door and lock it.
Monica giggling: We made it.
Alan smiling: Let me go get a bubble bath ready for you.
Monica smiling: Thank you darling.
Alan: Any time.
Monica soaks in the tub and lets the tension of the day go. Alan is sitting on the edge of the tub, in his robe, rubbing her neck and shoulders after his shower.
Monica smiling: You know what would make this bath even better?
Alan smiling: No what?
Monica laughing as she turns and puts her arms around Alan’s neck: If I wasn’t alone. (as she drags him into the water robe and all)
Alan laughing: Well I guess you should have just told me you wanted me in the tub with you and I would have been happy to join you.
Monica giggling: I just did.
Alan pulls Monica into a passionate kiss while caressing her back and waist while Monica has her arms wrapped around Alan’s neck with her fingers playing with his hair.
An hour later Monica is laying on the bed and Alan is rubbing her back.
Alan: Monica?
No answer. He looks down at her and she is sleeping. He moves her to her pillow and covers her up. He crawls into be but can’t fall asleep. He gets up and heads downstairs. On the walk downstairs he decides they need a break from this family and work what they need is a vacation. He heads downstairs and gets on the computer and starts looking for the perfect getaway for them.
Alan: Perfect! Can’t wait to get Monica there.
Just then Monica walks into the den.
Monica: Can’t wait to get me where?
Alan: It’s a surprise. You will just have to wait.
Monica sounding apprehensive: Don’t I get a clue?
Alan: Nope. Now lets go to bed. I will tell you after everything is planned and we are ready to go.
Monica: Ok just make it fast you know I am not patient!
Alan laughing: Really I hadn’t ever noticed.
They head upstairs hand in hand.
Early the next morning. Monica wakes up snuggled in Alan’s arms.
Monica kissing Alan’s neck: Alan just give me a clue.
Alan: No, you still don’t get a clue.
Monica: Oh come on just a little clue.
Alan: Ok. You and me alone, away from family and work and that, my love, is all you get.
Monica eyeing Alan: Sounds promising. Anything else?
Alan laughing at her persistence: NO! Don’t you need to go to the hospital?
Monica: Are you trying to get rid of me? On a Sunday this is supposed to be my day off.
Alan: Never. Well maybe just for a little while so I can make plans.
Monica picking up her keys: I do need to check on a patient anyway.
Alan: I promise it will be worth the wait.
Monica as she walks out: Promises, promises.
Later downstairs. Monica is still at the hospital and Alan is on the phone making the final arrangements for their vacation. He has already cleared their schedule at the hospital for a week and the jet is ready. Lila comes into the den as Alan hangs up the phone.
Alan: Morning Mother.
Lila: Good morning dear. What are you doing?
Alan: I will tell you but you have to promise not to tell anyone else.
Lila: I promise.
Alan: Ok, then I will tell you.
Scene fade out.
Later that evening. Monica just walks in the front door. Alan walks out of the den to meet her.
Alan: Hi darling.
Monica a bit pouty: Hi
Alan with his hand extended which Monica takes and follows Alan upstairs. Alan leads her into their bedroom where Monica notices that her jeans are out on the bed.
Monica skeptical: What are those for?
Alan laughing: Go take a bath and put those on.
Monica: Fine.
After she goes into the bathroom Alan changes into his jeans and walks into the bathroom.
Monica smiling eyeing Alan: I like the view.
Alan: Come on get dressed so we can go.
Monica: Ok you win. Do I get to know where I am going in those jeans?
Alan: Nope, just hurry up and let’s go.
Monica laughing: Ok, I am hurrying.
An hour later they are pulling into the airport.
Monica apprehensively: Alan where exactly are we going?
Alan grinning: I’ll let you know when we get there.
They get out of the car and get aboard the Q jet. Pete and James are already aboard and waiting for them. Over the intercom.
Pete: Welcome aboard. We have been cleared for take off so buckle up. The flight should be about 5 hours. We will let you know when we get close to our destination.
Alan: Thank you Pete.
Pete: Any time Dr. Quartermaine.
Monica to Alan: 5 hours? Alan I have to work tomorrow.
Alan: No you don’t.
Monica: Oh really. How did you manage that?
Alan: Don’t ask questions. Just know that we have the next week off and only Mother knows where we are so we won’t be interrupted.
Monica giggling: umm, I like the way you think!
Alan: I thought you were mad?
Monica trying to contain a smile: You could try to change my mood.
Alan smiling: Come here and let me give it a try.
Monica smiling as she moves closer obviously teasing: How is this?
Alan as he pulls her to him: Not close enough.
Monica giggling as Alan starts to kiss her. They break the kiss and Alan starts tracing her neck with gentle, lingering kisses while his hands focus on removing her sweater. Monica runs her hands under Alan’s shirt and pulls it off while making sure to kiss every inch of skin being exposed. They sink back into the couch and enjoy each other thoroughly during the flight.
As they are getting near their destination Alan decides it is time to wake Monica up so he caresses her cheek with his thumb and then whispers in her ear: I think we should be getting ready to land so we should get up.
Monica sleepily: I like it right here.
Alan: Ok, but Pete and James will come walking through here after we land.
Monica blushing: Oh, I see your point. Guess we have to get up and make ourselves presentable. Besides I want to know where you are taking me.
Alan smiling: All in good time my love.
A short time later Pete comes over the intercom. We have been cleared to land and we will be on the ground in about 15 minutes.
Alan: Thank-you Pete.
After they land the bags are being moved from the plane into the car. Monica walks behind the car and checks the plate.
Monica smiling as she walks to Alan: Colorado?
Alan confused: How do you know where we are?
Monica laughing: The plate on the car gave it away.
Alan: You sneak!
Monica: Do I get to know where we are going now?
Alan: NO! Now get in the car all you know is we are in Colorado that is a big state.
Monica laughing: Ok grumpy.
Driver: It is about a 30-minute drive to our destination so sit back and relax.
Monica to Alan: Are you mad?
Alan smiling as he pulls her into a kiss: No, I’m not mad. I should know by now you are above all else resourceful.
Monica smiling looking into Alan’s eyes and running her hand up Alan’s thigh: Good I would hate to be on vacation with my gorgeous, sexy husband and have him angry.
Alan laughingly: You know I can never stay mad at you for long especially when you say such wonderful things about me.
The driver pulls into the Double J ranch and Monica notices the sign.
Monica: A ranch?
Alan: Yeah. I thought it might be fun to do something we have never done before and a dude ranch seemed perfect. I reserved a cozy little bungalow for us. There are riding trails, walking paths, a pool, and golfing nearby. What do you think?
Monica: Sounds like fun.
Driver: We have arrived at your bungalow. I will help you get out your luggage.
Alan and Monica: Thank you.
The driver is now gone and Alan and Monica look around the bungalow. The bungalow is small but nice. The bungalow has a cute living room with a fireplace, a little kitchen, and a bedroom with a nice view of the mountains in the distance.
Monica as she is walking into Alan’s open arms: This is going to be a vacation to remember.
Alan as he starts kissing Monica while putting his arms around her waist immediately his hands start moving up her back. Monica’s arms wrap around Alan’s neck and her fingers migrate to his hair: That is exactly what I had in mind.
Alan pulls Monica into the bedroom never breaking their kiss. As they get to the bed Alan picks up Monica and puts her down gently on the bed then he lowers himself on top of her. They spend the night showing each other how much they love each other.
7 am Monica and Alan are sleeping entangled together. Monica has a leg over Alan her arm across his chest and Alan has his arm around Monica’s shoulder and his face turned toward her hair both have smiles on their faces.
Monica stirs which wakes Alan. Alan responds to being awakened by placing light kisses on Monica’s neck and moves to her ear.
Monica giggling: I’m insatiable what about you my darling.
Alan: That means we are perfect for each other then huh?
Monica: Definitely!
10 am Monica and Alan emerge from the bungalow. They decide to head to the main house and find out what they should do first.
There is a pool, riding stables, walking paths, hiking trails, and at night there is a hayride and a bon-fire where they roast marshmallows.
Alan: Well what do you want to try first?
Monica: I think a ride.
Alan: Ok, lets go to the stable and see if we can ride this morning.
They walk off toward the stable. The stable worker is the owner’s son, Jim, and he gets them two horses saddled up and Monica and Alan leave the barn and go out for a ride. Monica is riding a beautiful black mare named Escapade and Alan is riding a chestnut mare named Interlude. Monica and Alan both canter out onto the trails and enjoy the beautiful scenery. After about a half-hour they stop and dismount.
Alan as he takes Monica by the hand and leads her to the tree: Well what do you think of our vacation so far?
Monica grinning as they sit under the tree: So far I would say I never want to leave. I have you all alone in our own little place and this place is beautiful. No stress and no yelling sounds like paradise to me.
Alan takes his thumb and caresses Monica’s cheek while Monica gently kisses his neck. They settle back with Monica resting her head against Alan’s chest. The mountains are snow capped off in the distance and the sun is brightly shining through the scattered clouds overhead. The grass they are sitting on is soft and green and they just enjoy sitting together talking about nothing in particular.
Later…
Alan: Monica are you getting hungry?
Monica: Actually yes since we skipped breakfast and I think we probably missed lunch too.
Alan: Let’s ride back and see if we can find some food.
Monica as she has ahold of Escapade’s reigns with her foot already in the stirrup: Come on sweetie.
Alan as he is getting up on Interlude: Race you back.
Monica laughing as she encourages Escapade into racing right past Alan: You know I will see you back at the barn.
At the barn. Monica beats Alan to the barn. Of course they have to walk the horses around to cool down a bit. They walk side by side so they can talk.
Alan: Ok, I should know better than to try to beat you at anything by now.
Monica laughing: Just keep trying my love. Don’t plan of winning but keep trying.
Alan smiling: Oh don’t worry I will, besides it is kind of fun chasing after you! The view from where I am is pretty good too!
Monica giggling: I will keep that in mind. Now let’s go find some lunch.
Alan: Sounds good to me.
A few minutes later. Alan and Monica are walking inside the main house into the dining room.
Alan: Looks like we are in luck they still have the buffet out.
Monica: Good I am starving.
They spend lunch laughing and enjoying spending time together without any family or work interruptions. They decide to walk back to the bungalow to shower and change before the hayride and bon-fire that night. They leave the main house and walk toward their bungalow hand in hand. A couple minutes later they are opening the door to the bungalow.
Alan as he is pulling Monica into his arms: Come here.
Monica laughing as she leans into kiss him: umm
Alan while kissing Monica and starting to unbutton her blouse: Did I mention to you how delicious you look?
Monica as she is stripping Alan of his shirt: umm No, I don’t think you did.
Alan kissing each little bit of skin he is exposing: Consider it mentioned now.
Monica as she is kissing Alan’s chest and neck: Well then thank-you my love.
Alan moves to kissing Monica’s lips as he pulls her into the bedroom and to the bed. Never breaking their kiss they fall onto the bed and slowly make love never letting each other go. They spend the afternoon happily entangled together in bed until late evening.
Alan to a sleeping Monica: Wake up my darling.
Monica sleepily: Why? I rather like it right where I am.
Alan: I rather like you right where you are too. But don’t you want to go to the bon-fire and roast marshmallows maybe take a hayride?
Monica: Yeah I guess I would like that.
Alan: Come on let’s go get in the shower so we can go.
An hour later at the bon-fire, Alan and Monica are just walking up hand in hand.
Alan grinning: Do you want a marshmallow?
Monica: I think I would thanks.
Alan gets two sticks, marshmallows, graham crackers, and chocolate. They sit side by side and roast their marshmallows and when they are done roasting they make smores.
Alan grinning: How about smores? And do you trust me?
Monica apprehensively: Ok and Why?
Alan pulling Monica toward him: How about I feed you?
Monica unsure: Am I feeding you?
Alan smiling: Well of course my darling.
They feed each other the smores smiling and laughing the whole time. About the time they are getting done the hayride is just starting and they make their way to the wagon. They climb aboard. Alan sits down and pulls Monica down next to him. Alan has his arm around Monica’s shoulder. Monica is sitting beside Alan but slightly turned toward him resting her head on his shoulder. They relax and enjoy the stars and just being in each other’s arms.
After the hayride they walk back to the bungalow hand in hand. They spend the rest of the night cuddled up in front of the fire kissing and cuddling before finally falling asleep snuggled tightly together.
The next morning the fire is out and the sun is coming up and shining into the windows. Monica wakes up and gently kisses Alan’s chest and neck to wake him up. He wakes up and returns the kisses pulling Monica even closer.
They finally emerge from the shower and decide today is a day to just take a walk on one of the trails and swim in the pool.
They join a group who is taking one of the walking trails. As they walk hand in hand on the 3-mile hike.
Monica: The flowers and the view of the mountains are just beautiful.
Alan: Not as beautiful as you, my darling.
Monica smiling gazing into Alan’s eyes: That is sweet. You know you look very handsome yourself Dr. Quartermaine.
Alan returning the smile: Thank you.
The group stops for a rest and everyone disburses a bit. Alan and Monica sit on a fallen tree branch. Alan has his arm around Monica’s shoulder. Monica rests her head against Alan’s chest hand resting on his thigh.
Alan: It is so relaxing here. No yelling from father no arguing with father. You know I have a great idea, maybe you should kick father out of your house when we get home.
Monica laughing: What would we do without Edward to yell and scream at everyone before breakfast?
Alan: Sit on my lap and eat a peaceful breakfast while I nibble on your neck.
Monica giggling: umm Now I do like the sound of that, you better be careful or I really will just kick him out!
Alan: Good ol’ father better watch out he could be living with Ned in the gatehouse if he isn’t really good.
Monica giggling: I can just see Ned and your father living in the gatehouse. Poor Alexis, that place is too small for Ned and Edward. Then again, our house is too small for anyone to live peacefully with Edward!
The group begins to gather to start the walk back so Alan and Monica rejoin the group still laughing about their discussion. They make the walk back just holding hands and go in for lunch. After lunch they go get their suits and swim for a while before heading back to the bungalow to shower and change.
They get back to the bungalow and head for the bathroom to take a shower.
Monica has on a shirt that zips up the back. Alan walks up to Monica as he takes hold of the zipper: Allow me.
Monica moves her hair out of the way. Alan unzips Monica’s shirt and places kisses down her back and then up the back of her neck and then around her side of her neck to her ear. Alan gently turns Monica turns around to face him and their eyes lock. Never breaking their gaze Monica without a word pulls Alan out of the bathroom and back into the bedroom to the bed. As they get to the bed Alan picks Monica up and Monica begins kissing Alan. Alan gently places her on the bed and Monica pulls him right down on top of her never breaking their kiss. They sink into the pillows and gently make love until they fall asleep in each other’s arms.
They awaken the next morning to the sunshine streaming in the bedroom windows.
Monica: Good Morning.
Alan smiling: Good Morning to you too. Are you hungry?
Monica: Yes, as a matter of fact I am especially since we missed dinner last night. Shall we take a shower and go up for breakfast?
Alan: Sounds like a good idea to me.
In the shower the steam is rising quickly and steaming everything up.
Monica: Could you wash my back?
Alan kissing Monica’s neck: It would be my pleasure.
Alan starts lathering Monica’s back as Monica sighs with pleasure. Alan turns Monica around and starts kissing her the water falling onto both their faces. The kiss turns passionate quickly and sighs of pleasure are heard from both of them as the steam overtakes the room.
Later that morning Alan and Monica head to the main house to find breakfast and decide what to do for the day.
Alan wants to play golf and Monica agrees to try. They get to the course about an hour later.
Monica unsure: What exactly is the purpose of this game?
Alan smiling: Hit the ball into the hole!
Monica: Very funny. Is that the whole point to golf?
Alan: Well sort of. You want to hit the ball with as few strokes as possible, which is how the score is kept.
Monica: Ok. How about some help?
Alan comes to stand in back of Monica and helps her get the stance right then helps put her hands on the club right: Ok, now you want to hit the ball down toward the flag.
As they finish their round of golf. Monica is actually getting the hang of how to hit the ball and with which club. Alan is enjoying helping Monica and playing a round of golf too.
They get back to the ranch just in time for dinner. After dinner they head back to the bungalow and quickly change to go up the main house for the evening. As Alan and Monica enter the main house dressed for a night on the town. Alan in a suit and tie while Monica is in a sequined, fitted blue dress slit half way up her thigh up the left side and backless. It is about 7 pm the lights are dim in the ballroom and the song that has just started playing is "Amazed" by Lonestar.
Alan: Dance with me?
Monica as she reaches for Alan’s hand: Love to.
They get out on the dance floor and Alan wraps one arm around Monica’s waist and with his other hand takes her hand and pulls her into him. Monica puts her arm around Alan’s neck and she pulls his face down so she can gently kiss him.
Alan whispers into Monica’s ear: Perfect song for us don’t you think? Perfect just like us!
Monica gazing into Alan’s eyes: I couldn’t have said it better myself and it couldn’t be truer I want to spend the rest of my life with you.
Alan whispering into her lips: Forever and ever.
The song ends and Alan leads Monica to a table and they sit cuddled up together smiling and whispering to each other. Several other couples are sitting around doing much the same dancing and snuggling but Alan and Monica don’t notice anyone but each other.
Alan whispering to Monica: One more dance and let’s get out of here.
Monica: My pleasure.
They get up and head to the dance floor as "My Best Friend" by Tim McGraw starts to play.
Monica: Another perfect song.
Alan gazing into Monica’s eyes: Right again my love.
They sway in each other’s arms going from snuggled up faces buried into the other to pulling apart enough to gaze into each other’s eyes during the whole song. No words are necessary the love in their eyes say it all.
They walk back to their bungalow with their arms wrapped tightly around each other smiling and giggling the whole way there. At the door of the bungalow Alan opens the door picks Monica up. Monica acting quickly shuts the door with her foot as he races them off to the bedroom. In the bedroom, Alan is kissing Monica as he puts her down on the bed. Monica pulls him down on the bed along with her never breaking the kiss. Monica first frees Alan of his jacket quickly getting rid of the tie then moving on to the shirt. Alan pulls Monica on top of him and unzips the back of her dress. They quickly free each other of all their clothing which end up tossed all over the room. Camera fades out as sighs of passion are heard from Alan and Monica igniting their passion again.
The next morning Monica wakes up to find Alan holding her tightly. She lays there just watching him for quite some time amazed at how lucky she is he is there with her holding her, loving her. Finally she can’t stand it any longer she gently kisses his lips to wake him. Alan quickly responds and returns the kiss and his hands explore her soft, silky skin.
Alan barely breaking their kiss: Do you have any idea of how much I love you?
Monica as they are lip to lip: Show me.
They take up their love making with less urgency than they had last night but with the same gentle stroking and soft whispers to each other.
They finally emerge from the bungalow at lunchtime so they head up to the main house for lunch. They decide to head into town for some shopping. They drive enjoying the scenery and the gentle touching of each other. In town they find a jewelry store they decide to stop and check. They wander around separate a bit looking at different things in different cases. Monica stops in front of men’s wedding rings one really catches her eye.
Monica to the sales clerk: Could I see that ring right there.
Clerk: Yes madam. That is a beautiful piece our jeweler designed it.
Monica: Could I have something engraved on inside?
Clerk: Sure. It will be done tomorrow.
Monica: Good we are leaving Sunday.
Monica tells her exactly what she wants engraved and what size to make it then hands her a credit card. I want to find him a watch too so she searches and finds just the right one. She puts the watch into her purse.
Alan has found two treasures of his own while Monica is distracted and gives the clerk he is working with Monica’s size and what to engrave on the ring. The clerk tells him the ring will be done tomorrow. The other he puts in his pocket.
Alan and Monica continue to wander in the store looking for gifts for everyone at home. A beautiful pin for Lila, a tie tack for Edward, a watch for AJ, and a sapphire bracelet for Emily. After they buy the gifts for everyone they go to dinner at a little outdoor café. By the time they make it back to the ranch it is getting dark so Alan and Monica go change so they can go to the bon-fire and hayride.
Alan sitting with Monica beside him by the bon-fire: I had fun today. Actually, I have had a great time here with you. Thank-you.
Monica snuggling into Alan’s chest: I should be thanking you. It was your idea.
Alan smiling: I am glad we came here.
Monica: I wish we could stay here forever.
Alan: Eventually we would miss everyone and what about the hospital?
Monica: I know you are right I just feel so safe and loved right here in your arms.
Alan: My arms go home with us.
Monica giggling: I know but you know what I mean.
They feed each other roasted marshmallows. They make certain not to leave any marshmallow on the other’s lips if it happens they gently kiss it off. They head off to the hayride and Monica pulls out Alan’s present. Alan opens the watch.
Alan: Perfect since I lost my old one (kiss). I have a little something for you.
Monica as she opens the box: Oh my gosh it is beautiful. (We see the beautiful diamond tennis bracelet) Will you put it on me?
Alan as Monica pulls his face to hers and kisses him: Love to.
They kiss and cuddle during the hayride and when it finally ends they head off to the bungalow to properly thank each other for the gifts.
The next day they decide to take another horseback ride. At the stable they are again given Escapade and Interlude.
Monica: Wonder who named the horses?
Alan: I don’t know but I like the way they think.
Monica: I want to go back into town either tonight or tomorrow ok?
Alan relieved since he needs to get her new ring: Whatever you want.
They ride for a while side by side enjoying each other’s company.
Monica: Race you to the fence.
Alan as he encourages Interlude with his legs: Ok
Monica responds quickly and gets Escapade running. At the fence, Monica actually wins but only because she jumps right over the fence while Alan stopped Interlude before the fence.
Monica laughing: Looks like I win again.
Alan rather serious: Only because you jumped the fence and damn it you know better than do something so stupid! You don’t have a helmet on what the hell were you thinking?
Monica laughing: Ok sourpuss! I had no intention of getting thrown but ok no jumping without a helmet again. Except how am I going to get back over the fence?
Alan: Disassemble the fence and walk through it.
Monica: Right but seriously Alan you know I have to jump back over.
Alan ticked: Be careful!
Monica smiling as she gets Escapade back from the fence and back over they jump. Monica gets Escapade next to Alan on Interlude: I love you.
Alan obviously not happy: That was stupid to jump that fence like that and please don’t do that again you scared me.
Monica: I’m sorry.
Alan: Let’s head back.
Monica as she is dismounting Escapade: Alan wait.
As Alan is getting off Interlude Monica walks to him but he is obviously angry. Monica puts her hand to Alan’s cheek and strokes his cheek with her thumb: I said I was sorry could we just drop it?
Alan still not happy: Can we just head back?
Monica: Fine.
They head back to the barn both cantering along until the barn gets in sight.
Monica smiling and trying to get Alan’s mood to lighten: Race ya.
Alan frowning: No thank you. (Monica is already gone!)
They walk the horses, in silence, around a bit after they get back to cool them down then head to find some food. They eat dinner with some obvious tension between them. Then they head back to the bungalow to shower and change for more dancing.
In the shower the room is quickly steamy as Monica joins Alan in the shower.
Monica: Alan, I really did not mean to scare you when I jumped the fence.
Alan: I know. I have no intention of growing old without you and you know how dangerous jumping can be for god sakes you are a doctor you have seen and treated how many head injuries from falls? (Alan gets out of the shower without another word)
Monica surprised he just left her in the shower like that, finishes her shower and follows him out to the bedroom a few minutes later where he is getting dressed.
Monica sadly: I am sorry and I said I won’t do it again without a helmet. Now can we move past this or are we going to rehash my shortcomings again.
Alan ticked off now: Would you be mad if I had done what you did jumping that fence?
Monica smiling a little: Yes I would have gotten mad since you have a bad back and haven’t jumped in years.
Alan softening: Ok not the same thing but do you understand why I got angry?
Monica gently touching Alan’s cheek: Yes and I am sorry. You of all people know that I am a terrible looser.
Alan slightly smiling: How would you know? When was the last time you lost anything?
Monica tenderly: About 30 seconds ago. I just lost a fight I surely could have won if I really wanted to fight with you, which I don’t want to do.
Alan shaking his head with a smile: I surrender! Let’s just forget it. Now go get dressed I don’t want to argue with you any more. In fact, I would prefer to take you in my arms and dance with you.
Monica smiling: Ok big guy keep your shirt on and give me a couple minutes then I will be ready to go.
Monica hugs Alan and then kisses him tenderly on the lips and heads off to get dressed.
An hour later they enter the ballroom. Alan is in a suit and tie and Monica has on a red sequined, fitted gown slit up the right side. The song just starting is "Make my life with you" by the Oak Ridge Boys.
Alan with his hand out to Monica: Dance with me.
Monica smiling and accepting his hand: I would love to.
Alan and Monica dance around the dance floor. As the song ends they head to the bar for a drink then to a table. The sit for a few songs and relax sitting beside each other. The song "Back at One" by Brian McKnight comes on and Alan stands.
Alan: Last dance?
Monica as she stands up: Last one for tonight. I do expect many more dances for the rest of our lives.
Alan: Count on it.
On the dance floor Alan and Monica are tightly clinging to each other. Suddenly, Alan leans down to Monica’s ear and starts singing to her then pulls back enough to look into her eyes.
Monica gets a little teary: I love you with all my heart.
As the song ends they leave and head to the bungalow. Back at the bungalow Monica and Alan come in gazing into each other’s eyes.
Alan: I am going to start a fire. Do you want to go change?
Monica tenderly: I love you. I will be right back.
In the bedroom, Monica takes out a hunter green negligee and matching robe she found shopping yesterday. Few minutes later. Alan has started the fire and changed into a pair of green silk boxers.
Monica: Hey there big guy I see you changed too.
Alan walking over to Monica: God you are beautiful.
Monica pulls Alan into a passionate kiss. He pulls her over in front of the fire where he has made a blanket bed. Alan caresses her cheek with his thumb looking into her eyes. Monica responds to his caress by running her hands across Alan’s chest and as he pulls her into him she moves her hands around to his back. Alan starts a gentle kiss on Monica as he lays her back and begins tenderly undressing her and placing loving kisses over every little bit of skin he exposes. Monica tenderly kisses Alan’s neck down his chest back to his shoulders. They sink into the pillows and tenderly kiss and caress each other for a long time before passion takes over and they satisfy each other heart and soul.
They wake up the next morning with the sun again shining in the living room windows.
Alan places small kisses into Monica’s neck then bringing his lips to meet hers.
Alan: Let’s go take a shower and we can go back to town for whatever it was you wanted.
Monica smiling: Ok come on.
They shower, eat breakfast, and drive into town.
Alan: What did you have in mind for today?
Monica: I am not sure I just wanted to look around again.
Alan: Ok we can just walk around a bit and see if anything strikes your fancy.
They walk for a while and end up right in front of the jewelry store.
Alan: Guess we could look around in here again.
Monica smiling: Ok.
They wander around the store for a while both collecting their presents to each other.
Alan approaches Monica: Ready?
Monica smiling: Yeah are you?
Alan: Let’s go.
They wander around town for a while and have lunch check a few more shops before they make the journey back to the ranch.
They get back to the ranch and change just in time for dinner. They eat a nice dinner then decide to go to the bon-fire for their last evening at the ranch. They sit together snuggled close feeding each other smores then decided to skip the hayride and head back to the bungalow.
As they get inside Alan turns Monica to him and kisses her. Monica returns the kiss then breaks it.
Monica: I am going to change. I will be right back.
Alan: I’ll be in bed waiting.
Monica puts on an off white negligee and to one of the ties she attaches Alan’s new ring. Alan has put on a pair of black silk boxers, opened the champagne, and put the strawberries in a bowl. Alan has put Monica’ new ring on his little finger. Alan carries the champagne and strawberries to the bedroom. He gets into bed and waits for Monica to come out of the bathroom. A few moments later Monica emerges she looks so beautiful she nearly takes his breath away.
Monica walks to the bed and climbs in. Alan reaches for her and she responds by pulling herself on top of him and lovingly kisses him while he lets his hands roam over her body.
Alan’s fingers hit the ring and he pulls back wondering what he touched.
Monica knowing he hit the ring: What’s wrong darling?
Alan’s eyes look down to Monica’s chest where he hit something. He notices the ring and smiles: What is that?
Monica innocently: What?
Alan as he unties the ring: It is beautiful. But why did you buy me a new ring?
Monica smiling: I think it’s about time you wore my ring again. Besides I don’t want anyone to think you are not attached. Read the inscription and then put your ring where it belongs.
Monica watches as he reads the inscription: Alan, I will love forever. Monica
Alan as he hands Monica the ring: (kiss)Thank you. Will you put it on me?
Monica takes the ring and his left hand and as she slides the ring onto his finger she notices the ring on his pinky: What is that?
Alan smiling as he pulls the ring off his finger and hands it to Monica: Read the inscription.
Monica reads the inscription: Monica, I will love you forever. Alan
Alan laughing: I guess great minds think alike.
Monica smiling: You are right. It is beautiful (kiss), thank you(kiss). Your turn, will you put my ring on?
Alan: As soon as you move the other ring to another finger.
Monica laughing as she moves the old ring to the right hand: Ok, ready.
Alan slides the ring to its new home and they join in a kiss that makes them forget about the existence of the rest of world.
Alan as he breaks the kiss: Hold on just one second.
Monica: What?
Alan’s hand complete with a big ripe, juicy strawberry comes toward Monica’s mouth: Ready?
Monica gazing into Alan’s eyes: Willing and able.
Alan places the strawberry in Monica’s waiting mouth and moves in to take his half. Sighs of passion fill the room.
A couple of hours later. Monica is lying draped across Alan’s chest. Both are placing lazy gentle kiss all over each other.
Monica looking straight into Alan’s eyes: I can’t imagine living my life for one moment without you.
Alan returning the gaze: I know exactly what you mean. You are the only reason I am worth a damn.
Monica: That is not true. You are the most wonderful, sweetest, most tender man I have even met!
Alan: Thank you. Have I ever told you that you are the smartest, sexiest creature god ever put breath into?
Monica: God you are good for my ego. Should I tell you a secret?
Alan tentatively: What?
Monica: I could happily stay right here in your arms forever.
Alan smiling: I could live here happily just holding you for the rest of my life, but we still have to go home tomorrow.
Monica: I know but this has been so wonderful being here alone with you. I will miss being here with you with no distractions.
Alan: We can always come back.
Monica: Promise?
Alan as he kisses Monica tenderly: Promise.
Alan gently puts his hand on the back of Monica’s neck and pulls her lips to his as flames of passion ignite again.