Joe is on the phone in his office.

[Joe] Where did you get that information?

Joe says into the phone.

[Joe] Hey.....according to every legal precedent I have the right to face my accuser.

Joe says obviously becoming more angry.

Methos enters Joe's office after he had lunch intending to tell Joe he's leaving, when he sees Joe shouting on the phone.

[Methos] Joe? What's up?

Methos asks raising an eyebrow at him.

Joe looks up and when he see Methos he motions him to come in.

[Joe] Just tell me if it's one of my people....will ya?

Joe says into the phone.

[Joe] Yes.....that is true. But....

Joe says into the phone.

[Joe] Yes....I know. But....

Joe says into the phone.

Joe rolls his eyes at Methos and motions for the ROG to have a seat.

Methos sits down and just stays there hearing Joe's side of the conversation without comment, he knows Joe will end up telling him sooner or later.

[Joe] Look.....if you're going to make all of these allegations at least give me a chance to explain.

Joe says into the phone.

Methos frowns at the word allegations wondering if it had something to do with Ashley's report.

[Joe] Alright. That's more like it. It's true. I do have several Immortals with no Watcher but that's because I don't have the people. I have been requesting Headquarters to assign more graduates to the West Coast but no one ever shows up.

Joe says through a clenched jaw.

[Joe] No.

Joe says after listening for several minutes.

Methos tries to hide a smirk when he hears that, yes it was about Ashley's report alright.

[Joe] I'm not coming to Paris. I can't. I'm so short handed out here I can't get away right now.

Joe growls.

[Joe] If you want to talk to me face to face you're going to have to leave your ivory tower in the city of lights and come here.

[Methos] Yeah, right, like that's going to happen.

Methos murmurs under his breath still listening to the conversation.

Joe says emphatically.

[Joe] Fine.....yes.....perfect.

Joe says and hangs up. He immediately picks the phone back up and dials a number.

[Joe] Shelly.....it's Joe Dawson. I need a favor.

Joe says into the phone....his tone of voice now more friendly.

[Joe] I just got a call from your boss and I need to know the name of the person who made the report against me. Can you get it for me?

Joe asks.

[Joe] No. He wouldn't tell me. That's why I'm calling you.

Joe says rolling his eyes.

[Joe] Thank you. You're a sweetheart.

Joe says and hangs up the phone. He opens the bottom drawer of his desk and takes out a bottle of whiskey and two glasses which he fills. He hands one to Methos and picks up the other one and downs it all at once.

[Methos] I would tell you if you stopped ignoring me. 

Methos tells Joe shaking his head.

[Joe] Tell me what?

Joe asks quirking an eyebrow.

[Methos] I'm beginning to feel ignored in here, you know?

Methos comments as he accepts the whiskey and plays with the glass on his hand.

[Joe] Tell me what?

Joe repeats.

[Methos] Who filled that report. Question is, how much is that information worth?

Methos probes maybe he'd get a cut on his tab if he's lucky.

[Joe] YOU know about the report?

Joe asks incredulously.

[Joe] How the hell do you know? And how long have you known?

Joe asks as he refills his glass.

[Methos] Can't help it if I'm a nice guy and people keep telling me things, now do I?

Methos says before he empties his glass and gives it to Joe for a refill.

[Joe] Yeah. A nice guy. So why didn't you give me a heads up, Mr. Nice Guy?

Joe asks sarcastically.

[Methos] I thought you knew about it.

Methos shrugs looking at Joe.

[Methos] Because come on, let's face it, everybody inside the Watchers know about it by now.

Methos adds with a smirk, amused the boss was the last to know.

[Joe] God damn it. I'm suppose to be in charge out here and I'm the last person to know anything that's going on. What the hell?

Joe says gulping down his drink and slamming the empty glass back down on the desk.

[Joe] So? Are you going to tell me what you know?

Joe asks, turning to stare directly at Methos.

[Methos] Didn't you check the forum? Some people agree with it, some don't.

Methos says trying to stall the information, if he plays his cards right he may earn something from it.

[Joe] What forum?

Joe asks a bit confused.

Methos stares at Joe for a moment in surprise.

[Methos] The Watcher's intranet? You heard about it, right?

Joe shakes his head.

[Joe] Never heard of it.

[Methos] Joe, just do yourself a favor. Check it once in a while, you'd know everything there is to know if you do.

Methos takes a deep breath while he shakes his head in disbelief.

[Joe] Fine. What's the address?

Joe asks as he grabs a sheet of scratch paper and a pen. 

Methos shakes his head in disbelief again, when Joe asks that. 

[Methos] Try Intranet.Watchers.
 
[Joe] So are you going to answer my question or make me search for it myself?

Joe asks as he jots down what Methos has told him.

Methos rolls his eyes deciding gaining something from it isn't worth it, this is getting boring.

[Methos] Who do you think? Miss By-the-book of course. Who else?

Joe thinks about his Watchers and who would have acquired that particular nickname. Only one comes to mind.

[Joe] Sawyer? Ashley Sawyer?

Joe asks quirking an eyebrow.

Methos nods.

[Methos] Yes, but go easy on her, that's the way she is, can't take it personal.

Joe reaches for his rolodex...locates Ashley's phone number and dials it.

[Ashley] This is Sawyer.

Ashley says answering her cell phone.
 
[Joe] Ashley? It's Joe Dawson. Are you busy?

Joe asks in his most friendly voice.

[Ashley] Not really. Steven's plotting... this will take a while. Why, what's up?

Ashley replies.

[Joe] Could you come see me at my day job office?

Joe asks sweetly.

[Ashley] You mean at the bar?

Ashley asks, her tone of voice displaying her physical raising of her eyebrow.

Joe chuckles lightheartedly.

[Joe] Yeah.

[Ashley] Yeah. It'll take me a bit to get over there.

Ashley says.

Methos frowns at Joe suspiciously, Joe is being too nice. He needs to stick around in case things get out of hand.

[Joe] Cool. I'll be here. See you soon.

Joe says pleasantly then hangs up and looks at Methos.

[Methos] Now who's playing Mr. Nice Guy?

Methos asks raising an eyebrow at Joe.

[Methos] How shocking.

[Joe] I learned from the best.

Joe says as he refills his glass and toasts Methos.



Ashley pushes the door to Joe's Bar open, and enters. After a moment for her eyes to adjust she sees Joe isn't in the bar proper, so she makes her way back towards the office.

[Methos] I still say to go easy on her, Joe. She didn't win her nick for nothing, you know?

Methos says trying to calm off Joe.

Joe sees a stream of light reflect off of the waxed bar floor and realizes the front door has been opened. He glances at Methos to see if he has a reaction and when he doesn't see one he figures it is Ashley. He turns on his computer and accesses the Internet address of the Watchers' forum.

[Methos] And she does have a point, the Watchers aren't watching anything, you only know about MacLeod because he tells you about it.

Methos says with a shrug, then he adds as an afterthought.

[Methos] Not that I'm complaining, but she does have a point.

Joe looks busy on his computer as he scrolls through the forum's threads.

Ashley makes her way to Joe's office and taps on the door.

[Ashley] Hello? Joe?

Joe looks up and smiles when he sees Ashley.

[Joe] Hey. Come on in.

Joe says and motions for her to come in.

[Joe] Have a seat. Can I get you anything to drink? I have fresh coffee.

[Ashley] No, thanks. I'm fine.

Ashley says coming in and taking the open seat.

[Ashley] Hey, Adam.

Ashley greets with a smile.

[Methos] Hello Ash. Joe here just found out about your report.

Methos says as he nods at Ashley, trying to give her a hint of what is coming.

Joe clicks a few letters on his keyboard even though he isn't actually typing anything then hits the Enter button and sits back in his chair. He rests his elbows on the arm of his chair and links his fingers together across his stomach as he looks directly at Ashley. Joe refrains from glancing at Methos although he wishes that his Immortal friend hadn't spilled the beans quite so quickly.

Ashley raises an eyebrow.
 
[Ashley] Which report? I do submit them regularly, as per regulations.

Methos only stares at Ashley, hoping she'd get the hint without him telling her which report he had in mind.

[Ashley] It's not the one, about Steven admitting to being a Quickening addict, is it?

Ashley asks, thinking of her most recent report.

[Joe] I take it you're not a computer geek.

Joe says evenly but still without a hint of anger.

Methos side glances at Joe while he thinks, look who's talking.

[Ashley] I wouldn't term it computer "geek" but I do check all the Watcher Forums and reports daily.

Ashley says with a shrug.

[Ashley] Why?

[Joe] You do?

Joe asks, quirking an eyebrow curiously.

[Joe] I'm surprised that you don't know which report we're talking about, then.

Joe says without changing his expression.
 
Methos looks down trying to hide a smile, that report had been the talk of all Forums since it was submitted.

[Joe] I mean....

Joe points to his computer screen.

[Joe] It's the talk of the town according to this.

[Ashley] Oh, the report about you?

Ashley asks.

[Ashley] I don't see why that's such a big deal. It's not as if I haven't reported the European head and Asian head for the same thing, before.

Ashley shrugs.

[Joe] Ashley....you graduated the Academy 29 years ago and I know the curriculum was the same for you as it was for me at that time so I know that they taught the use of the chain of command.....right?

Joe says rocking back in his chair.....his hands still clasped.

[Ashley] Yes. That is why I put it into my regular report... Which you should have read, before now.

Ashley points out.

Methos moves his hand across his face to hide his amusement, for a moment he'd been worried about Ashley, he'd forgotten she was perfectly capable of answering Joe back.

Joe is glad that just this morning he had completely cleaned off the top of his desk so it looked neat and organized.

[Joe] As you can see....

Joe says indicating his desk top and in box.

[Joe] I have received nothing. But that's not the point, Ashley. I think you misunderstood the concept of how to use the chain of command.

Joe says using his fatherly voice.

[Methos] You might want to check your email, Joe. What century are you from? I swear to God.

Methos murmurs shaking his head.

[Ashley] The report was submitted electronically. As ALL reports are supposed to be submitted now, according to the most recent list of regulations *I* received.

Ashley says flatly.

Joe looks at Methos questioningly.

[Joe] Meaning?

[Methos] Meaning your inbox is in the computer now.

Methos explains disbelievingly.

[Joe] Not all of it.

Joe says and shoots him a look of warning.

[Methos] What did you expect a letter? A telegram?

Joe turns back to look at Ashley.

[Joe] Let me give you a quick refresher course.

Joe says calmly.

[Joe] You see....it's really very simple. You have your direct supervisor....then there's his supervisor and his supervisor and however many supervisors there are before it ends at the top. In the case of the Watchers....it would be me, then the head of the US Division then the head of operations at headquarters and then, finally, the director himself.

Joe asks sounding like an instructor giving a lecture.

[Ashley] Yes, and allow me to remind you, Joe Dawson, that all reports are now to be submitted to the general reporting database, so all supervisors can look at them. I did that. I have also, specifically copied you directly on all reports submitted while in your territory. Same as I do, to all local heads when I am in their direct area. Your e-mail inbox has received copies of every report I've submitted.

Ashley says firmly, not backing down from her stance, knowing she is not wrong.

[Methos] If your email box hasn't reached the limit that is.

Methos murmurs with a smirk.

[Methos] Apparently you don't know you have one.

[Joe] The rule.....and it has been the rule of the chain of command ever since Roman times.

Joe says glancing at Methos for secret confirmation.

[Ashley] Yes, well, to remind you, technology has changed a bit since Roman times. And again, I did copy everything to you.

Ashley states.

[Methos] Welcome to the 21st century, Joe. No more secret reports, I mean look at Wikileaks.

Methos says thinking about the latest scandal.

Joe refrains from reacting and responding to her apparent irritation and simply nods in acknowledgment of her statement.

[Joe] I realize that things weren't computerized 29 years ago....and that yes....

Joe glances at Methos.

[Joe] I am not a computer user myself. But what I do know about businesses that use computers the way we do is that for everything that is sent to someone across the Internet....it is backed up with a hard copy...a printed copy of the document which is sent to the receiver and whoever else.

Joe says plainly.

[Joe] If you had done that I would have seen the report even if I didn't check my cyber in box.

Joe says shooting a glance at Methos again.

[Joe] But whether or not you sent me a copy is not the point.

Joe says unclasping his hands and leaning forward....placing his arms on the top of his desk.

[Joe] The point is.....BEFORE you ever sent anything to anyone above me you should have come to me and discussed it.

Joe says firmly and looks directly into her eyes with a stern expression on his face.

[Ashley] I had assumed, because I did copy it to you, that you would have seen it, before anyone else. And to point out, I did not send it higher. It may have been taken higher, by others but not me.

Ashley says.

[Joe] Again....you're missing the point, Ashley. Or just not hearing me.

Joe says more seriously.

Methos rolls his eyes, Joe was just too old school to get the picture. And they call me old, he thinks to himself, he'd always made the point of living accordingly to the age.

[Ashley] As are you.

Ashley says flatly.

[Methos] You're both right, the old school and the new school, can't we reach a compromise here? You'll be here discussing it till tomorrow morning.

Methos points out trying to end this nonsense.

[Ashley] Fine. Perhaps I should have done a more.... physical approach of ensuring the report reached you, since it did in part, concern you. But, that said, I didn't, technically, do anything wrong.

Ashley says with a pointed look at Adam before returning her attention to Joe.

[Joe] Look....Ashley.....we can argue this around the block forever and I can see that you still don't get it. So I'll just tell you now what I would have told you then and that is that the lack of watched Immortals is NOT my fault.

Joe says swallowing his anger and frustration.

[Ashley] Oh?

Ashley asks raising an eyebrow.

[Ashley] Is it not your responsibility to assign Watchers to Immortals?

[Joe] I have requested personnel in my monthly report since day one and they have yet to send me anyone.

Joe says sitting back in his chair.

[Ashley] I see...

Ashley says slowly.

[Joe] The only new Watchers I have gotten have been those assigned to an Immortal who has moved into town....like you.

Joe clears his throat as he clasps his hands back across his stomach.

[Joe] I can't very well produce Watchers out of thin air....can I?

[Ashley] In that case, should Steven come across any other Immortals... and not take their heads, I will, inform you with an indepth description. I was... irritated when I wrote that report. And will keep this knowledge in mind should a next time occur. And while I won't keep it from my regular reports, I believe I can keep it from sounding as though anyone is at fault.

Ashley concedes.

Methos sighs in relief this is looking good, for a moment he thought they'd be at this all day.

Joe decides this is going to be the best he's going to get right now. But he knows in his heart that he is going to have to make time to try and teach her an important lesson before it's too late. It is, after all, his job.

[Joe] I appreciate it, Ashley. Thank you.

Joe says simply and smiles at her.

[Ashley] Well, if you'll excuse me then. I really should get back to watching Steven. He's up to something.

Ashley sighs.

[Joe] Definitely.

Joe says with a nod.

[Joe] Keep me posted. And Ashley?

[Ashley] Yes?

Joe 's tone of voice changes back to his fatherly voice.

Ashley asks as she stands up.
 
[Joe] Be careful.

Joe says and winks.

[Methos] Bye, Ash, Take care.

Methos says as Ashley stands up to leave.

[Ashley] I always am. See you around Joe. Adam.

Ashley says with a smile as she turns and walks out of the office.

Joe looks over at Methos then scoots his chair closer to his computer and looks at the monitor intently.

[Joe] You were a big help.

Joe says a bit sarcastically without looking back.

[Joe] I have some work to do before getting ready to open.

Joe says simply hoping Methos will take the hint.

[Methos] Come on, Joe, you're a big boy, you don't need a protector.

[Joe] Never said I did.

Joe says quietly without looking away from his monitor.
 
[Methos] Oh and busy, are you?

Methos asks still smiling amused.

Joe ignores Methos and begins filling out the Watcher Forum's registration form so he can post on it.

[Methos] Guess what?

Methos says ignoring the fact that Joe is trying to look like he has some work to do.

Joe sighs and lets his hands rest. He looks up at Methos and quirks an eyebrow.

[Joe] What?

[Methos] You're busier than you imagine. Do yourself a favor check your email inbox.

Methos says as he stands up to leave.

[Methos] Happy reading.

Methos says before he walks out the door to go to his car.

[Joe] What email box?

Joe asks the empty office then shakes his head.

 

 
Nikki finishes helping with the unloading of the hay delivery truck and removes her gloves. She uses them to brush off the hay that is sticking to her jeans then takes out her cell phone and dials Methos' cell phone.

Methos is walking in a hospital corridor looking for Joe when his cell phone rings. He takes it out of his pockets and answers it without looking in the monitor to see who's calling.[/i]

Methos: Pierson.

Methos says as he keeps walking.

Nikki: Hey! Whatcha doin'?

Nikki asks lightheartedly.

Methos: I... hmm... I was going to call later.

Methos stalls while he thinks of a light way to tell her the news.

Nikki: Ha ha! Beat you to it.

Nikki giggles.

Methos: So you did.

Methos asks slightly amused.[/i]

Nikki senses something in Methos' tone of voice and furrows her brow.

Nikki: Did I catch you at a bad time? Are you busy or something?

Nikki asks concerned that she interrupted something like a Watcher's meeting.

Methos:Hmm, yes to both. I'm at Mercy hospital.

Methos starts, he knows he has to tell her eventually.

Nikki: Hospital? Why are you at a hospital?

Nikki 's concern is growing.

Methos: Zoe isn't feeling well and they had to bring her here.

Methos explains, hoping she doesn't ask for details for now.

Joe sits in a chair next to Zoe's bed. He holds her hand and stares at her face....watching her sleep.

Zoe sighs in her sleep and shifts slightly, pulling Joe's hand closer to her.

Nikki 's mouth gapes open and she feels the pit of her stomach knot up. She knows that Methos isn't telling her everything but, then, he really doesn't have to. One thing she has become aware of lately is that ever since she gave in to her feelings for him it's as though they have become in sync and she can sense his feelings through his tough exterior.

Nikki: You said, Mercy? I'm on my way, babe.

Nikki says simply then adds, "Methos....I love you." She hangs up and sprints to her truck, gets in and throws dirt and gravel in the air as her tires spin then she speeds off and heads for the city.

Methos:Alright.

Methos answers then he realizes he's already talking to himself and puts the cell phone back in his pocket shaking his head slightly. that woman moved faster than sound.

Duncan walks out of Zoe's ICU room and over to the ICU waiting room. He walks up to a vending machine and buys a cup of vending machine coffee then sits down in one of the chairs.

Joe: It's OK, my love. I'm right here.

Joe whispers and gives Zoe's hand a gentle squeeze.

Methos feels the buzz of another Immortal and looks around, he finally finds MacLeod near what he assumes is Zoe's room and walks in that direction.

Duncan feels a strong Immortal buzz and looks toward the waiting room door. Seeing it's Methos he nods.

Duncan: She's in room 6 of the ICU. Joe hasn't left her side since I've been here.

Duncan informs Methos and takes a sip of his coffee...grimacing at the horrible taste.

Methos nods.

Methos: Be right back.

Methos says as he turns away to look for room 6.

Zoe moans softly and opens her eyes, waking up.

Zoe: Joe?

Zoe says softly.

Joe: Right here, sweetheart.

Joe says leaning closer to the bed.

Zoe: Are you doing okay?

Zoe asks, softly.

Joe lifts her hand to his lips and kisses it softly.

Joe: You're the one lying in a hospital bed and you ask how I'm doing. You're the most amazing woman I have ever met.

Joe says and smiles lovingly....even though he knows she can't see him.

Methos goes down the corridor, looking for the room numbers until he gets to 6 and walks inside.

Methos: So how's it going?

Methos asks while he stops near the bed.

Joe: Hi, Adam.

Joe says and nods to Methos.

Joe: Honey? Adam's here.

Joe says softly to Zoe.

Zoe: Hello, Adam.

Zoe says, turning to smile in the direction she had heard his voice.

Methos: Hello, Zoe. Feeling better?

Methos asks while he looks around just in case they left her chart somewhere but no such luck.

Zoe: Not to bad.

Zoe says, then smiles.

Zoe: But I'm also doped up at the moment, which always improves one's outlook.

Zoe jokes.

Joe manages a forced chuckle.[/i]

Methos: Oh, yeah, I'm sure it does.

Methos nods with a smirk.

A nurse comes into the room and walks over to one of the monitors and checks the readings then turns and picks up Zoe's free hand and takes her pulse. "The doctor wants to catheterize you, Zoe," the nurse says. She looks at Joe and Methos and says, "So I'll need

you two to step out while I do this."

Joe: OK

Joe says. He gets to his feet and leans over Zoe and kisses her forehead.

Methos: Alright, I could use a coffee.

Joe: I'll be right outside.

Zoe: Alright.

Joe says softly.

Zoe says, with a smile in Joe's direction.

Methos nods as he turns away, he remembered seeing a machine near MacLeod.

Joe turns and walks out of the room.

Joe: Thanks for coming.

Joe says softly to Methos.

Methos: What are friends for?

Methos answers with a wink.

Methos: Should we get a coffee while we wait?

Joe turns around and looks at the glass wall between him and his wife...now covered with a drape...and sighs.

Joe: I think I'll stay right here. But you go ahead.

Joe says to Methos without looking away from Zoe's room.

Methos: Joe, you should rest a little while you can. It's going to take a while, you standing here looking at the drape isn't going to help, you know?

Methos points out even thought he knows probably Joe isn't going to follow his advice anyway.

Joe: Would you leave?

Joe asks without looking at Methos.

Methos sighs looking down remembering he also didn't leave Alexa side unless he was forced into it.

Methos: No.

Joe nods.

Joe: Then I'll stay here.

Joe says quietly.

Methos: OK, I'll bring you some coffee then, want anything to go with it?

Methos asks, while he thinks he's going to bring him something to eat anyway even if the answer is no.

Duncan hears familiar voices outside of the waiting room and gets up. He walks over to the door and looks out, quirking an eyebrow questioningly at Methos.

Joe: I'm fine. Just get whatever for yourself.

Joe says quietly....still watching Zoe's room.

Methos:Fine. Don't rest, don't eat, don't keep your energy and soon you'll be on a hospital bed too.

Methos shrugs.

Methos: You think that's going to help her?

Joe ignores Methos' smarmy comment.

Duncan: Don't bother. I already tried.

Duncan says to Methos and walks back into the waiting room. He finishes his foul tasting coffee and tosses the paper cup into the trash can.

Methos rolls his eyes as he decides to leave Joe for now and walks over to the coffee machine to get a coffee.

Duncan: A word of warning. It tastes like sweat socks.

Duncan says to Methos.

Methos: How do you know? Already tasted sweat socks?

Methos chuckles softly, those comparisons never failed to amuse him.[/i]

Duncan: Ha ha. Very funny.

Duncan says sarcastically and sits down in one of the chairs.

Methos makes a face after he takes a sip, then walks over to MacLeod and sits near him.

Methos: He should take some rest, but he's too stubborn to listen.

Nikki, knowing that Methos probably hasn't eaten, stops at a Subway and orders a sandwich and a large coffee. As an after thought she orders three more....one for herself and Joe and Mac...assuming he's there.

Duncan: And this is news?

Duncan asks not really expecting an answer.

Methos:Yeah, look who I'm telling this, the pot and the kettle.

Methos murmurs under his breath before he takes another sip and makes a face.

Duncan: And what does that make you?

Duncan asks quirking an eyebrow questioningly.

Methos: Silver glass?

Methos smirks, he highly doubts MacLeod will agree with that.

Duncan: If you're studying to be a comedian I would suggest that you don't quit your day job.

Duncan says shaking his head. He looks out the door at Joe and his heart goes out to him.

Methos: Just trying to lighten the mood.

Methos shrugs as he looks down at his coffee.

Methos: Or trying not to think in what I'm drinking.

Duncan: Yeah. Pretty bad...huh.

Duncan says in agreement.

Methos:If I wasn't a you know what I'd probably need treatment right now.

Methos nods in agreement.

Duncan: Good thing we have cast iron stomachs.

Duncan says absentmindedly. He is still watching Joe watch Zoe's room and remembering the last time he had to watch someone he loved die.

Methos looks in Joe's direction and sighs when he thinks what's coming soon.

Methos: I don't think she's going to last long, you know?

Methos grimaces when he tries to imagine Joe's reaction to that.

Duncan: Yeah. That's what the doctor told Joe and I when they transferred her from the ER.

Duncan says sadly.

Methos: They did? Good. They're trying to give him time to prepare.

Methos nods, he's glad he doesn't have to do that himself, it will be hard enough to watch.

Duncan: Yeah. But can you really prepare for something like this?

Duncan asks turning to look at Methos. He remembers the state Methos was in when Alexa died. He had known what was coming but when he was faced with the inevitable end he wanted to steal the Methuselah Stone to make her immortal.

Methos:No, or we should be used by now, we know what's coming when we fall for a mortal, it's only a matter of time.

Methos sighs sadly remembering all those women he'd lost through his life.

Methos: It never gets any easier.

 

 Joe is sitting on a blanket with his back against a tree and his laptop in his lap. He is still stuffed from the huge lunch Zoe had prepared for their picnic and the peaceful atmosphere of Seacouver Island Park makes the everyday world outside of the island sanctuary seem nonexistent Since the spot he chose for their picnic is just a few yards away from the Rose Gardens near the center of the park....the scent of many varieties of roses fills the air.




Joe hits the Send button on his computer and waits for confirmation that his email had been sent then he shuts his laptop and glances over at Zoe.

Zoe: How's it going?

Zoe asks, turning her head towards Joe, hearing the computer beep.

Joe: All done. Thanks for letting me take care of that.

Joe says and puts his laptop back in its carrying case.

Zoe: It's fine. I told you, I'm just happy to be here, in the sun and with you.

Zoe says with a smile.

Joe: Smells like the roses are blooming early this year.

Joe says taking in a deep breath.




Zoe: It does. It smells positively heavenly.

Zoe replies contentedly.

Joe: I am so glad that you were able to see the park, the Rose Garden and the lake before.....

Joe 's voice trails off not wanting to say the words, "you went blind."

Zoe: Before, I went blind?

Zoe asks, finishing Joe's sentence.

Zoe: So, am I, but truth is, Joe.. everyplace is heavenly, when I'm with you.

Joe leans forward and retrieves the pitcher of sparkling strawberry cider and refills Zoe's and his glasses. He hands Zoe hers.

Joe: You know.....you keep saying stuff like that and you'll over inflate my ego.

Joe says and kisses her cheek. Then he sits back and takes a sip of his drink.

Zoe: Now that I don't even think is possible.

Zoe chuckles, and reaches out carefully stacking the plates from their picnic. Salad plates, chicken and veggies, and dessert plates.

Joe watches Zoe with admiration. He has never seen anyone adapt so quickly to a disability as quickly as Zoe has her blindness. It had only been a month since Zoe's illness took her sight and she had already been able to learn to do so many things without help. She was even learning braille He remembers how long it took him to accept losing his legs and he doubts he would be able to accept being blind as quickly as Zoe had. He has a renewed respect for the woman he married.

Zoe picks up the plates and slips them into the basket.

Zoe: Any preference on what we should do with the remains of the day?

Zoe asks.

Joe: Hold that thought.

Joe says and he struggles to his feet. He looks around and sees that, even though it's a beautiful Sunday afternoon, they are the only people in the area. So he heads over to the Rose Gardens and, taking one last look around, proceeds to cut several roses. He removes the thorns as he heads back over to their picnic site.

Joe: For you, ma lady.

Joe says and hands her the makeshift bouquet.


 
       

 
 

 
 
Zoe: Joe!

Zoe admonishes with a laugh, accepting the bouquet and putting it to her nose and inhaling deeply.

Joe sits back down on the blanket and picks up his glass. He takes a long drink of the sparkling sweet liquid.

Joe: They pale in comparison, my love.

Joe says softly.

Zoe: Flatterer.

Zoe teases in reply.

Joe: I speak only the truth.

Joe says and brushes a wisp of her hair from her face. He gently traces her jaw bone with the tips of his fingers then leans in and kisses her.

Zoe enthusiastically returns Joe's kiss.

Joe ends the kiss and sits back, looking up at the sky. He finishes his cider and sets his empty cup in the bag they have designated as trash. He looks over at Zoe and gets an idea that is sparked by the realization that this may be the last time they are able to enjoy Seacouver Island Park together.

Joe: Since it is such a gorgeous day....how about going for a walk?

Joe suggests.

Zoe: Sounds wonderful.

Zoe grins, moving to stand up.

Joe: Why don't you wait here while I put this stuff in the car?

Joe says as he struggles to his feet again.

Zoe: What's the fun in that?

Zoe smiles.

Zoe: How about I get the blanket?

Zoe says moving over to where she had left her shoes and slipping into them.

Joe: OK Fine. Don't let me be chivalrous.

Joe grumbles, feigning hurt feelings.

Zoe: Well, see, if I let you be chivalrous, then that means, I have to spend time away from you.

Zoe points out, with a smile at Joe.

Joe: How come you always have an answer for things? Just once I would like to win a disagreement with you.

Joe says and laughs as he gathers up their stuff.

Zoe: I didn't realize we were having a disagreement!

Zoe laughs.

Joe simply laughs and shakes his head. He holds out his elbow so Zoe can take hold of it and he leads her to his SUV. He packs everything away and closes the rear door, re-locks the car and takes hold of Zoe's hand.

Joe: Ready?

Joe asks and gives her a quick kiss on the tip of her nose.

Zoe: Absolutely.

Zoe grins.

Joe chooses one of the many paths in the park and starts casually strolling along the path...holding Zoe's hand in his.

 Zoe just smiles contentedly, as she walks alongside Joe. Her Husband. Her love



A ways down the path and they come to a clearing with the famous (at least in Seacouver) hollow tree.






Joe stops and looks at the tree and remembers the first time he brought Zoe here. She had become so taken with the tree. They had taken several pictures of the two of them inside the trunk.  He leads Zoe over to the tree and places her hand on its trunk.

Joe: You know where we are?

Joe asks softly.

Zoe: The Tree?

Zoe asks feeling the moss covered wood of the tree.

Zoe: It's the Hollow tree isn't it?

Zoe asks, running her hands up and down the wood, taking in the details her sense of touch gave her. She feels like she could almost see the hole in the tree. Zoe still felt it was amazing how her other senses compensated for the lack of sight. She can feel the heat of Joe's body as he stands next to her, smell the damp slightly rotting sense of the moss.

Joe: The one and only.

Joe answers with a snicker.

Zoe: I love you, Joe.

Zoe says turning to Joe and following her senses leans forwards to kiss him.

Joe stands inside the trunk of the hollow tree and returns Zoe's kiss. Then he leads her on down the path. They come to the bridge that crosses the narrow part of the small lake near the center of the island and he leads her onto the bridge...stopping in the middle of it.  He chuckles softly as he watches the ducks swimming on the lake's glass like surface.





Joe chuckles softly as he watches the ducks swimming on the lake's glass like surface.

Zoe: What's funny?

Zoe asks, leaning lightly against Joe.

Joe: Have you ever seen the Music Man?

Joe asks...a bit embarrassed that he was caught.

Zoe: Yes.

Zoe says.

Joe: Well....we're standing in the middle of the bridge over the lake. It reminded me of that song they sing standing on the foot bridge.

Joe explains as the melody plays in his head and he starts to sing the song softly...just for Zoe's ears.
 
Audio      Lyrics

 

Joe begins to sing the song softly....for Zoe's ears only.

Zoe sighs contentedly when Joe finishes the song. She absolutely loves to listen to him.

Zoe: That was lovely.... Though I fail to see how thinking of that scene or song, was amusing.

Zoe says, quirking a smile.

Joe: Because it just seemed kind of un-macho. And when a guy thinks of something along those lines we tend to laugh it off. I guess you could say it's a programmed response

Joe says with a shrug. He takes her hand and leads her off of the bridge.

Zoe: Men.

Zoe sighs with a theatrical roll of her eyes.

Zoe: Can't live with them, can't live without them!

Zoe says exasperatingly, before laughing at her own joke.

Joe: Believe me.....we say the same thing about you women.

Joe says and laughs.

Zoe: And here I thought it was men just didn't understand women.

Zoe chuckles.

Joe: Oh. We understand them, all right. We understand that we will never understand them.

Joe says still laughing.

Zoe: I knew I married a smart man!

Zoe exclaims through her laughter.

Joe guides Zoe along the path that winds through the lush forested park...ending up back at the parking area where Joe's SUV is parked.

Joe: I trust you have had enough of the outdoors and are ready to go home?

Joe says as they walk up to his car.

Zoe: Yeah, I think I'm good.

Zoe says, just content to be with her husband.

Joe unlocks and opens the passenger door and helps Zoe into the car then goes around and gets into the drivers' seat.

Joe: Wow! The whole car smells like roses.

Joe comments when he gets in and smells the bouquet of roses he had stole for her earlier and that they left in the car while they took their walk.

Zoe: I wonder why?!

Zoe says laughingly.

Joe starts the car and heads for home. Ten minutes later he pulls the car up to the curb in front of their house, gets out and goes to the passenger door, opens it and helps Zoe out of the car.

Joe: I'll come out and get the stuff out of the car later.

Joe says as he takes hold of Zoe's hand and guides her to the front steps.

Zoe: Well, I don't think we have to worry about any of it going anywhere.

Zoe chuckles softly.

Joe: And I don't think I left any left overs to go bad.

Joe says, rubbing his stomach.

Joe: I made a total pig of myself.

Joe chuckles as he leads her up the steps and unlocks the front door.

Zoe: Everyone is aloud to do that, every once and a while.

Zoe smiles.

Joe: You're just too good of a cook.
Joe confesses.

Joe: You've got me spoiled.

Joe admits.

Zoe: Well, that's easy to do, when you were used to eating out all the time!

Zoe teases.

Joe holds the door open so Zoe can enter the house then closes and locks the front door behind them. He takes her hand and leads her to their bedroom and once they have crossed the threshold he turns to her, takes her in his arms and kisses her passionately.

Zoe returns the kiss with her own passion for a long moment. Then breaks off the kiss, and takes a step back, allowing her hands to trail down to Joe's. Lightly grasping his hands, she steps back to the bed.