AN EPITAPH FOR LOVE
by
Sharom Hulihan
Sam was tall and slender with sandy colored hair and piercing green eyes. He gazed down at Ashley, her long blond hair cascading down around her shoulders the gentleness of her eyes mirrored the innocence of her soul. She looked so petite next to his masculine frame.
He pulled her close to him, holding her gently. They looked at each other for what seemed to be an eternity, as though something were being said, yet their lips never moved. There appeared to be a knowingness between the two of them.
It began over 25 years ago, when Sam’s family moved next door to Ashley’s family. A quite peaceful neighborhood — it resembled a neighborhood straight out of Mayberry but there wasn’t a Sheriff Andy or Barney. The small mid-western town reminded Sam of the Town of Mayberry in Mount Airy, North Carolina.
There was six years difference in age between Sam and Ashley. Ashley was always trying to hang out with Sam and his friends. Sam found her annoying but he also found himself sticking up for Ashley when his friends started picking on her. Sam felt sorry for the little girl who seemingly didn’t have friends her own age.
And so it began an unusual friendship between a five year old Ashley and an eleven year old Sam. As the years passed their friendship grew and Sam found
himself a friend, confidant and protector.
Growing up in Galena was an adventure every day. Ashley was always hanging out with Sam and his friends. At first the guys resented her for being around all the time. They would tease and make fun of her all the time. Sam would find himself in the middle more than once trying to ease the situation.
After Ashley got a little older and able to keep up with the boys, she became just one of the guys. They would explore all the nooks and crannies throughout the region. She became quite the tomboy, able to keep up and sometimes exceeded the other boy’s expectations.
Everything the kids did from hiking to exploring to baseball and basketball, Ashley was always included. For years Ashley’s good friends were Bill, Doug, Jimmy, Todd, Carl and, of course, Sam.
As the years passed, many of Ashley’s friends began hanging out with new-found friends of their own from junior high school and then high school. The one constant in Ashley’s life was Sam’s friendship.
When Ashley turned twelve Sam went to University of Dubuque in Iowa where he majored in Criminal Justice. The university was approximately 20 miles from Galena.
Sam enjoyed being at college and his new-found freedom. Sam and Ashley had very different views on life, love and sex. Sam was not promiscuous but he did enjoy dating and everything that came with dating. Sam did currently have a semi-serious relationship at school.
Upon returning for the holidays and other occasions, Sam would share his adventures and escapades with Ashley. Over the years they had become really good friends and confidants.
It was on one of his brief visits home that he and Ashley were sharing deep thoughts on his current relationship and sex.
It was then that Ashley made her feelings on marriage and love making clear … it should be kept within the confines of marriage. Sam respected her views, but didn’t share them. Actually, their thoughts were at polar ends of the spectrum when it came to sex and marriage.
It was a long four years without her best friend, but Sam was only 25 minutes away and he traveled back and forth regularly on his motorcycle, a Suzuki.
The years passed quickly and before he knew it, he was graduating from the University with his degree in Criminal Justice.
Sam graduated from the University the same year Ashley turned 16.
As they celebrated her 16th birthday party, Sam realized Ashley had grown up right before his eyes and he hadn’t even noticed how beautiful she had become.
Sam was extremely tall, 6” 4’, and lanky. He hadn’t changed much in the past ten years, but Ashley had become an unbelievably beautiful young woman. Sam even noticed his life-long friend had breasts. He had always remembered Ashley as a tomboy.
Jimmy, one of Ashley’s friends, was paying far too much attention to Ashley and Sam felt a feeling he had never experienced before … a twinge of jealousy! Jimmy was a friend of Sam’s too. Jimmy was one of the friends Sam and Ashley hung out with when they were growing up. All the boys Ashley hung out with when she was younger were at her 16th birthday party too. Sam also realized that if he noticed she had grown up … so did the other guys.
Sam walked over to Jimmy and Ashley dancing slowly and said, “I thought you were going to save a dance for your old buddy? May I cut in?”
Sam also wanted to give Ashley her birthday present. Ashley opened her gift. With a sense of awe she gasped at its beauty …, a sapphire teardrop pendant, with an extremely delicate gold chain. Sam placed it around her neck.
Ashley was so glad her buddy was finished at Dubuque University. The weeks and months passed and they both fell into the day-to-day routine of life.
Ashley remembers vividly the day Sam came over and announced, “I’ve been accepted to the graduate program at Harvard Law, I’m so excited. I leave in August!”
Ashley knew their long-time friendship was at a cross road and would be challenged with Sam leaving for graduate school, he had been accepted to Harvard University School of Law, on the east coast. Ashley felt a tremendous sense of sadness. A three-year law program at one of the most prestigious Universities on the east coast. Ashley knew she should be happy for her friend; but instead, all she could think about was not having Sam in her daily life for three years.
August came much faster than Ashley would have liked but the inevitable was upon her. Three years without her dear friend and confidant seemed like an eternity. Ashley feared the truth …, had she grown so close to Sam over the past six years that her friendship had turned to love?
The infamous day was upon them. Ashley drove to the airport with Sam’s family. Her sadness was overwhelming. She wanted desperately to tell Sam how she felt but she was paralyzed with fear. Instead she managed to choke out, “have fun, study hard and don’t forget me!”
CHAPTER TWO
With that being said, Sam disappeared down the ramp to board the plane. Next stop Cambridge, Massachusetts where he would spend the next three years in the world’s most prestigious University studying law.
Sam knew the curriculum would be tough, but he also knew this was a stepping stone to an extraordinary future.
After getting settled into his dorm, Sam went exploring the campus. The lush landscape was beautiful. He began around his apartment area and then ventured over to the Blodgett Pool Building where Sam would be swimming on the Crimson swim team that year.
The campus was huge, since Sam arrived a week before class began he would have plenty of time to visit Harvard Museum of Natural History, Harvard University Science Center, Sanders Theater and so much more.
His excitement for campus life was invigorating and he was anxious to see everything that one week would allow him to see.
The following Monday swimming practice began at 5:00 am. Law class began at 8:00 am. Sam noticed that two individuals were in his law classes and swim practice. Jake was partnered with Sam on the Crimson Tides. Sophia was also in one of Sam’s law classes and she swam on the women’s swim team.
Sam didn’t go home for the holidays. It was just a few months since he began the Harvard Law program and he really wanted to stay focused on his studies. It was extremely cold and snow white in Cambridge; not to mention the still and quiet on campus because everyone had gone home for the Christmas holidays.
Between his law studies, the gym and swim team, Sam kept busy. Physically he knew his body was changing. Working out every day and swimming on the Harvard swim team slowly changed him from the tall awkward kid into a tall sculpted man. He did regret not seeing Ashley for Christmas but he looked forward to calling her during the holidays. The holidays passed and a New Year was upon him. Sam’s New Year’s resolution to himself was to study really hard and, more importantly, figure out what Ashley meant to him? The months passed and spring was lurking.
It was a cool spring night. Sam opened his dorm windows to get some fresh air. He had just returned from working out at the gym and was ready to call it a day. His body sweaty, he showered and put on his sweat pants and walked over to the window. Looking out onto the campus, he was still in disbelief that he was in the Harvard Law Program. He plopped down on his bed enjoying the coolness of the evening. His thoughts immediately turned to Ashley and his family. Sam realized he hadn’t seen either of them for almost 9 months.
He reached over and grabbed the phone and dialed a familiar number. The phone rang a couple of times, “hello Ash, its Sam.” “Oh my gosh Sam I haven’t heard from you in forever, I thought you forgot me! How are you?” Their conversation lasted for a little over an hour catching up on everything. Sam told her about his days that were regimented; swimming, school and the gym everyday in that order. He also shared that she probably wouldn’t recognize him the next time they saw each other. He never elaborated he just said they will each be older and with time comes change. As their conversation started winding down Sam said, “I really miss you Ash and I can’t wait to see you. I miss talking to you, hearing you laugh, sharing, and your quirky antics.” With that they concluded their conversation. Ashley could always say something incredibly off-base to take the edge off an awkward moment.
Sam put the phone back on the table, put his arms behind his head and stared at the ceiling thinking about their conversation. He cared for Ashley too much. He noticed that every time he thought about her too much, he felt things that he knew friends don’t and wouldn’t feel.
Sam’s morning started at 5:00 am. By 6:00 am he was in the Olympic sized swimming pool. He was off on the 100 meter freestyle swim and it was noticed by the coach and his swim partner, Jake. Sam had a competitive spirit, for him to be off, especially on freestyle swimming, was questionable. The day turned into several days; Jake asked Sam, “What’s up with you Sam? You seem very distracted lately.” Sam just shrugged his shoulders.
Sam was a mysterious and quiet individual. Jake had known and swam with Sam for the last six months, yet he knew very little about his friend. Jake said, “You want to go out tonight and grab some pizza and beer? Hopefully, Jake could get him to open up. Sam said, “Sure, why not.”
They meant at Pinocchio’s Pizza and Subs in Harvard Square around 7:00 pm. Sam got there first and ordered a beer. Jake arrived shortly thereafter ordering pizza and beer. Just then the most beautiful Italian love song came over the speakers with video on the video wall. Jake noticed Sam was extremely uncomfortable.
“Shit … you’re in love Sam. That’s what has been bothering you! Who is she? Is she in the law program? What does she look like?”
“No she’s not in the law program, Sam said. ‘It’s complicated!”
Jake kept up his irritating questions. Sam knew he needed to talk to someone … he felt so confused. He decided to open up to Jake.
“Her name is Ashley. I have known her since she was five. We grew up together … we were neighbors. There’s six years between us. She literally grew up before my eyes. One morning I woke from an erotic dream about Ash. I didn’t pay much attention to it because we spent so much time together. I began looking at Ash as a woman. I think about her all the time. Now when I talk to her on the phone, I get a hard-on. Those erotic dreams are far more frequent now … and always about Ash. My friend has crossed over to my love interest. I feel like she sees me as just a friend and far too old to be a love interest. Hell, I am so confused about my feelings, Jake!”
Jake listened with a sympathetic ear and then lent his words of wisdom, “Sam, you need to get laid. Start dating! Start living! There’s life beyond Ashley! You’re in college now and there are a lot of girls here that would love to go out with a Harvard law student. You need to put some emotional distance between you and Ashley.”
Sam knew his friend was right. So he would heed his advice and put some time and distance between them.
He immediately started dating, working out harder and swimming much faster. He was the fastest swimmer on the Crimson swim team.
The following week Jake went and signed himself and Sam up for ballroom dancing. His reasons were two-fold: Get Sam’s mind off Ashley and meet girls. Sam really enjoyed the class and continued lessons through the semester.
June was fast-approaching and there were weekly scheduled swim meets at the Blodgett Pool throughout the summer. It was an exciting time for Sam … he was about ready to start his 2nd year in law school, he was the fastest swimmer with the most swimming medals and awards on the Crimson swim team, and he was dating a number of beautiful women. Sam liked the women well-enough but emotionally he just didn’t connect with any of them. His thoughts were always comparing them to Ashley, which he knew was unfair to the other women.
Meanwhile Ashley wondered why Sam stopped calling her. She hadn’t heard from him since that late night call in April. She decided she would fly out and surprise him. She was aware of the big competition in late June and that was a perfect time for her to go and surprise him.
Her mom cautioned her that she should call first. Ashley commented, “What kind of surprise would that be?”
Ashley was packed and ready to catch her flight. She was off to see Sam at Harvard. She was so excited she could hardly contain her emotions. She found her way to the campus and then to Blodgett Pool natatorium where the swim competition was taking place. She was just in time for the Harvard/Princeton meet.
Ashley couldn’t believe her eyes. She hadn’t seen Sam in almost 10 months. He had transformed from a tall, gorgeous, skinny green-eyed man to a sculpted Greek god. She literally had to catch her breath when she saw Sam and how he had physically changed.
He and his team mates were up next for a 4 x 100m freestyle swim. Jake was up on the swim platform when the bell went off and he and the Harvard swim team began the 4 x 100 meter freestyle relay swim against Princeton’s best swimmers.
Sam was the last swimmer on the Crimson team. Sam swam the last leg of the race bringing the team to victory. Ashley was overwhelmed at the grace and speed Sam was able to swim.
Actually, she was overwhelmed at everything she had seen thus far. Sam’s team won the match and the excitement in the building was deafening!
Sam got out of the pool as Ashley turned to pick up her things and turned around and froze, time seemed to stop in her universe; she now understood why she hadn’t heard from Sam. The girl that brought him a towel was gorgeous, an Italian beauty. She was a tall brunet with legs that seemed to go on forever. She was dressed in shorts and a swimsuit under her shorts, which accented her assets.
Ashley left in tears. She caught the first plane back to Galena crying all the way home. She never spoke about what happened when she went to surprise Sam at the swim meet, not even to her family. She felt so foolish and embarrassed.
It was fall and Sam was heading home for a long weekend. There was a cool breeze when he stepped down onto the tarmac. Sam realized it had been a little over a year that he had seen his family or Ashley. At least that is what he thought. As a matter of fact, the last time Sam spoke to Ashley was the spring evening that left such a confusing feeling in his body then in his mind. He tried to keep his emotions in check, but that was easier said than done. He had a great summer and took Jake’s advice, dating a lot of women, but he found himself comparing the other women to Ashley. He was unable to connect with them on an emotional level; however, the sex was great.
He took a cab home. Even his parents didn’t recognize him he had grown so much physically. He took his suitcase from the cab and went in his house. He was surprised that Ashley was not there to greet him as he left a message with her parents he would be home that weekend. Sam asked about Ashley but his parents said they hadn’t seen much of her since June.
Sam thought to himself that was odd because Ash was always close to his parents; more so than Sam. After visiting with his parents for awhile Sam decided to go next door and see about Ash. He knocked and her mom answered the door. “Hey Mrs. Cooper, is Ash home?” “No, she’s at a two-day seminar. She won’t be back until late Sunday night.” Sam asked, “Did you give her my message I’d be home this weekend?” Mrs. Cooper said quietly under her breath, “Sam you need to talk to her. Everything has not been the same since June.” Then she said, “I’ll give her the message you stopped by.” And with that she closed the door.
Sam was baffled … what could have happened in June that would make Ashley react in such a harsh manner? Sam was clueless. But he would heed Mrs. Cooper’s advice and make a point of talking to Ash before he went back to Harvard.
Sunday came and Sam was again knocking at Ashley’s door. Mrs. Cooper again answered the door and said, “Ashley just got home and is in the tub.” Sam said, “What the hell happened in June that Ashley is acting like this?” Mrs. Cooper said, “You need to talk to Ashley.” Sam said, “I need a ride to the airport tomorrow, can Ashley take me?” Mrs. Cooper said, “Yes,” without even talking to Ashley!
Monday came and he packed what little items he brought home, kissed his mom and dad goodbye. Called Ashley and said he was ready to go. Ashley hardly said two words on the way to the airport.
As they walked into the airport and to Sam’s gate, again Ashley said very little to Sam. Sam said, “What’s up with you, Ash?”
“Sam, I went to surprise you in June and instead I got the surprise of my life.Please don’t be mad Sam, but you were with a beautiful woman after the swim meet. I left crying and came back to Galena. I told no one. I have been so confused since June.”
Sam was irritated! He said, “This dynamic has changed … you and me. We are no longer kids Ashley … I’m a man and you’re a woman! You need to face that reality. I know you better than anyone. I may not agree with your thoughts or feelings, but I do respect them. All this drama over that … Ashley! What does that tell you Ashley? You need to come to terms with the obvious! I love you, Ash and always have. Give me a call when you can come to an answer about us. I’d do anything for you, Ashley, except stop living my life.” With that, he turned and walked away boarding the plane.
The plane was about to take off, Sam was looking out the passenger window really irritated and upset at Ashley’s forthcoming.
In the meantime, Ashley was standing exactly where Sam left her in the airport with tears streaming down her face. Sam had never called her Ashley nor spoke to her in a harsh manner. She rummaged through her purse until she found her cell phone and dialed his phone number in Cambridge.
“Sam its Ash, I know you’re not there. I’m still at the airport, devastated at your reaction. I’m sorry! I am confused about us. The one thing I am certain of is that I need you to always be a part of my life!”
When Sam returned to his apartment he got Ashley’s sorrowful message. He was still angry with her confession, about being at his swim meet in June and her assuming there was something going on between him and Sophia.
Fall turned to winter and the seasonal changes were refreshing. Sam had no desire to go home for the holidays. He stayed on campus. The New Year came and went and Sam had not heard from Ashley with the exception of the apologetic message she left on his recorder in early fall.
Sam had to stay strong and give Ashley the space and time she needed to figure out what came next in their future, if anything.
The winter months in Boston, November through April, were bitter cold. His first year in the law program proved to be an extreme challenge. Sam would often times go to Revere beach to decompress from a long day of classes and studying. Revere beach was only about 12 miles from his dorm. Sam would hop on his Harley 750 and head down I-90 E to get to Revere beach. He really enjoyed feeling the cool ocean breeze and listening to the waves breaking on the shore line. This was Sam’s favorite place to decompress and to think about life, the future and, of course, Ashley.
In the meantime Sam kept busy with his law studies and swimming. Sam and Sophia were in the same law program and Sophia swam on the Harvard ladies swim team. They had become very good friends.
Sam relied heavily on Sophia’s advice on the law program at school. Sophia was in her second year at Harvard and she planned to practice law in New York City after her graduation which was only a few months away.
Sam and Sophia were studying for a law exam in Sam’s apartment. A light knock was heard and Sophia answered the door, “You must be Ashley? Sam talks about you all the time! Please come in … it’s freezing out there!”
Sam hurried over to the door to greet Ashley, he picked her up and gave her a bear hug and swung her around. Sophia, who knew of Sam’s devotion to Ashley said, “I’m going to head on home and give you love birds time alone. I’m sure Ashley didn’t come all this way to chat with you and me!” Sam said, “I’ll walk you back to your dorm, Sophia.”
Sam was an honorable, true gentleman in every sense of the word! “I’ll be right back Ash.” With that the door closed. Ashley was left alone in Sam’s apartment pondering the question, why am I here? I should not have come! All of a sudden Ashley felt sick.
CHAPTER THREE
Just then the door burst open. Sam said, “I can’t believe you’re here. What an incredible unexpected surprise, Ash! Please tell me you’ve given us some thought?”
“Yes, I have. isn’t that the girl that was at your swim meet last June? Is she really just a friend, Sam? I’m confused about your relationship with her and that plays a huge role in my thoughts about us!”
Sam could see that Ashley’s concerns were very real.
“I love you Ash and I suppose I always have. Sophia is just a very good friend and has been since I came to Harvard. She knows everything about you, and us, and would like to be your friend too.”
Ashley planned on spending three or four days with Sam. Sam didn’t agree with Ashley’s commitment to waiting until marriage, but he respected her vow to wait until marriage.
This posed a problem for Sam. He adored and loved Ashley and was wondering if she planned on sleeping in his room and Sam would sleep on the couch or would they both sleep in Sam’s room? He already professed his love for her! How much did Ashley know about male anatomy? He wondered, how do I ask these types of personal questions? What he did know with certainty was there would be a lot of cold showers in his immediate future.
Sam felt embarrassed and ill at ease. Ashley sensed there was something wrong and Ashley said, “What’s wrong Sam? Are you sorry I came?” Emphatically Sam said “NO!” “Ash you’re going to have to help me on sleeping arrangements. I know how you feel. I don’t want to do anything that disrespects your commitment. Also, I don’t know how much you know about a man’s anatomy?”
Ashley said, “What I don’t know, I guess I’ll find out! Sam I trust you. Our sleeping quarters is behind that door.”
As much as Sam was happy with her decision, he knew it was going to be a physically rough three days. Sam was not used to wearing pajama bottoms, he slept in the buff.
They retired for the evening. Having Ashley’s small frame next to his body was difficult at best for him to remain physically indifferent. As a matter of fact, it was impossible. Ashley asked Sam “Would it be better if I slept on the couch?” Sam responded, “NO, I’ll take care of this”. He excused himself and went to the bathroom. When he returned, he no longer had a hard-on. He and Ashley spooned and talked for hours about the next three days, which also included getting to know Sophia.
The next morning when they awoke, Ashley got up and made fresh coffee for Sam, while Sam enjoyed his first cold shower, relieving himself. This was not a routine Sam was comfortable with … Sam was a good-looking man with an awesome body. His last 6 years were sexually active and he wasn’t used to cold showers, masturbating or pajama bottoms and muscle t-shirt as sleeping attire! However, Sam loved Ashley and would do whatever was necessary to be with Ashley.
They planned their day including Sophia so Ashley could get to know her as a friend.
They explored the campus together and they stopped at Oggi Gourmet Foods in Harvard Square for lunch, which served different types of food. Sophia and Ashley were getting along famously, which made Sam extremely happy. There was never any reason for Ashley to feel threatened by Sophia.
On their second day together, Sam took Ashley to Revere beach on his Harley. Once they got down there, they walked down the beach hand-in-hand when Ashley spun around and said, “One day I will be Mrs. Sam Collins.”
That announcement meant a lot to Sam and he smiled and said, “I can’t wait.”
The third day they spent it on campus. Sophia came over and the three of them headed out for the day. Sam couldn’t get Ashley’s comment out of his head. Sam was secretly taking mental notes on various jewelry shops, such as Zinnia Jewelers.
The girls were making their way into every boutique shop in Harvard Square: Mint Julep, Free People, antique shops, etc. Sam found it amazing how girls could find the resilience to shop until they dropped. When they finally made it home Sam dropped into bed pulling Ashley down with him and said “No one on this side of the bed has any energy left. You could say yes Ash and that’s as far as it would go.” They both laughed and just talked until they fell asleep.
The following day it was time for Ashley to catch her flight back to Galina. Sam borrowed Sophia’s car and took Ashley to the airport. Sam told Ashley what a great time he had and he hoped Ashley was serious about, “One day she was going to be Mrs. Sam Collins.” Ashley said, “Count on it.”
Sam drove back to his apartment and immediately called the Cooper’s home and asked Mrs. Cooper if he could speak to Mr. Cooper? When Mr. Cooper got on the phone Sam said, “Mr. Cooper, I just put Ashley on the plane back to Galina. I would not do this over the phone but law exams prevent me from doing this in person. I would like your permission to ask Ashley for her hand in marriage!” Mr. and Mrs. Cooper were very excited about Sam asking Ashley to be his wife. Mr. Cooper’s reply, “Sam we would be proud to have you as a son-in-law!” Sam said, “I would like to propose during the Christmas holiday for an early spring wedding if that works for you?” Mrs. Cooper was on the other line now and they both agreed to the time-frame. Sam concluded the phone call by saying, “Don’t tell Ashley I want the ring and proposal to be a Christmas surprise!” With that he hung up.
Sam’s favorite time of year was the Spring time. Soon Sam would be in his final year at the HLP. The summer promised to have a lot of swim meets for the Crimson swim team. Sam was sure Ashley would come for a visit.
Sophia had already graduated the year before and found a great job in New York City. Sam was anxious for Sophia to come down to one of Sam’s swim meets too. He would coordinate the dates when Ashley was there for a swim meet. Ashley would have a friend sitting on the bench with her as they watched Sam compete.
Sam also had an ulterior motive. He knew how much the girls enjoyed shopping, and he didn’t want to rain on their parade. Instead he would find something else to occupy his time with his friend, Jake: bicycling, weight lifting, swimming, possibly kayaking … anything but shopping!
Spring turned to summer and Ashley and Sophia planned to meet at Sam’s apartment in mid-July for one of Sam and Jake’s big swim competitions. Ashley flew in a few days earlier so she could spend quality time with Sam.
Quality time for Ashley meant a lot of cold showers for Sam! Since Sam made a commitment to Ashley on Revere beach, he could hardly wait for their wedding night so they could finally share their wedding bed.
It was a long drawn out summer and Sam could hardly wait for the Christmas holiday when he would propose to Ashley Christmas Eve.
Jake was Sam’s friend and swim partner on Harvard’s Crimson swim team. Jake helped Sam pick out Ashley’s engagement ring.
It was late October and getting closer and closer to Christmas. A year and a half earlier, Jake and Sam had been at Pinocchio’s Pizza and Subs in Harvard Square for beer and pizza. Sam had shared his thoughts with Jake about Ashley and why he felt so confused about his way-of-thinking about Ashley. now they were looking at engagement rings at Zinnia Jewelers. Certainly, time cemented the direction Sam had earlier been so confused about. Sam had chosen a 14k white gold, ¾ Carat Marquise solitaire diamond with a beautiful white-gold wedding band. Jake thought it was beautiful and fit Ashley’s personality perfectly. Simple yet elegant!
Thanksgiving was fast approaching and Sam was getting his Harley serviced for his trip back to Galena, Illinois for the 4-day Thanksgiving holiday. The campus was beginning to thin out due to many students taking the entire week off. Sam didn’t need to pack anything he had everything he wanted at his parents’ house. The only thing Sam considered necessary to take was Ashley’s ring to show his parents and Ashley’s parents.
It was approximately 1,100 miles from Cambrige to Galena, Illinois. Sam decided to drive midway to Buffalo, New York, stay over-night, and start the rest of the drive fully rested. He was eager to see his parents and Ashley.
It was Tuesday morning and Sam jumped on his Harley and caught Interstate 90 West heading toward Buffalo, New York.
In Buffalo, Sam chose to stay at a Best Western Motel right off I-90. It was located next to a diner. Sam checked into Best Western and it was early enough to catch the 6:00 pm movie, grab a bite to eat at the diner, and everything was in walking distance.
After the movie ended, Sam walked over to the diner to get dinner. He was seated in Holly’s section, a vibrant young lady with a beautiful smile. Sam thanked Holly, left a generous tip and headed back to his room for the evening.
Sam generally slept in the buff, around 1:30 am there was a knock on the door. Sam woke, putting his jeans on, he was a little disoriented but Sam answered the door. It was Holly his waitress from the diner. Holly said, “I just got off work and I saw you walk over here and thought you might like to go out for a drink.” Sam replied, “Thanks, but I’m on my way to see my fiance and I have to get up early.”
Holly persisted, “I’m sure your fiance wouldn’t mind if you had one drink!”At this point Sam became irritated and said, “She would and I do! Thanks and good night!” He closed the door, took his jeans off and jumped back into bed … unable to sleep.
Sam couldn’t believe how brazen women had become. Now he understood what feeling like “a piece of meat” meant to women. Holly was practically salivating at the front door at his bare chest. He wished he had put a t-shirt on, but knew that probably wouldn’t have made a difference.
The following morning Sam got up around 6:00 am, showered, shaved and went to the diner for breakfast. He felt a little sluggish from having his sleep disrupted in the middle of the night. He was excited to get his day started.
About 8:30 am he was heading for Galena, Illinois for the Thanksgiving holiday. Ashley was only a few hours away …! Ashley could hear the motor of Sam’s Harley a block away. He rolled into his parents’ driveway around 4:30 pm. He got off his motor bike. Ashley came running over to Sam jumped up wrapping her arms and legs around him. Sam hugged and passionately kissed her. Ashley said, “Sam you’ve never kissed me like that?” “I’m sorry, Ash, that is meant for our bedroom. Ash, I don’t know how you are able to do this? It has been a long year but I made a commitment to you and I’ve kept it — we wait until we are married!” He was incredibly happy just to be home and to hold her.
Both Ashley and Sam went in to see Sam’s parents. Mrs. Collins was making a dish for tomorrow’s festivities.
Then they headed over to Ashley’s parents’ house to say hello. Mrs. Cooper was busy in the kitchen baking pumpkin pies. Mr. Cooper greeted Sam with enthusiasm. After all, that was going to be his future son-in-law, which he and Mrs. Cooper were ecstatic about.
At this juncture in their relationship, Ashley had no idea that Sam was going to propose to her Christmas Eve. Both his and her parents knew and had kept his secret. Sam was eager to show his and her parents the wedding set Jake helped him pick out.
That was going to be a task within itself. Ashley stuck to Sam like a bee on honey. He wasn’t complaining; Ashley had been that way since she was five years old. He used to find it annoying when they were kids. There were all his guy friends and then there was Ashley! Now it felt good to be loved that intensely. Now he found it endearing!
Sam walked next door to his parents’ house. It felt strange sleeping in his old room, but tomorrow was Thanksgiving and now it was time to get some shut eye for tomorrows’ festivities. Before retiring for the evening, Sam chatted with his parents for awhile and showed them the wedding set. He told them he would leave it with them and on Friday, they could share it with the Coopers.
Sam also talked to his father about his commitment to Ashley that they would wait until they were married to celebrate their love for one another. Sam was devoted to Ashley and her need to emotionally stay committed to her beliefs.
Mr. Collins said, “Sam I know how difficult this is for you! Ashley has always had strong opinions about life and love since she was a very young girl. I deeply respect you for honoring Ashley’s beliefs. You are building a strong foundation for becoming man and wife.” Having said that, Mr. Collins was off to bed to join his wife, it had been a very long day preparing for Thanksgiving.
Ashley had truly changed Sam’s thinking on so many issues especially on life and love. Unbeknownst to Ashley, Sam unknowingly was slowly changing his thought process over to her thought process.
Thanksgiving Day was upon the Coopers and Collins. The Collins planned on spending the day at the Coopers’ house. Thanksgiving Day parade, football, dinner and relaxation for everyone but Sam and Ashley who volunteered to do the dishes … Ashley washed and Sam dried.
The following day Sam decided to take Ashley for an extended ride around
the Galena Mountains and Galena Snake River. He left the wedding set with his father to show the Coopers.
When Sam and Ashley returned around dusk, dinner was ready at the Collins’ home. They had a wonderful day just cruising around the Galena Mountains. Ashley commented to Sam, “I’ll be glad when the day doesn’t end by saying goodnight or goodbye to you. I want to make love to my husband before we go to sleep and wake up next to my husband in the morning.”
Sam commented, “Ash, I graduate in May, we’ll get engaged in the spring and get married in June. That’s only seven months away and we’ll be man and wife.”
Ashley agreed reluctantly, Sam walked her next door and said goodnight.
The next morning Sam had to head back to Cambridge. He got up, showered, shaved and his mom had made him a great breakfast. Ashley came over to have breakfast with Sam. Sam said good-bye to his parents inside.
Ashley walked Sam out to his Harley and began to cry. “I want to start my life with you now, not seven months from now. Sam kissed her passionately and said, “I love you Ashley Cooper, the next seven months will fly by … I can’t come home for Christmas but I’m going to send you round trip tickets to Cambridge, if you don’t mind? There will be tests before the Christmas holiday and testing after the holidays. You can come up there for the Christmas Holidays. We’ll have fun!” Ashley agreed.
At that moment Sam put the motor bike in 1st gear and peeled away. Ashley watched until he was no longer in sight … tears streaming down her face.
Sam went through Buffalo, New York, stayed the night and resumed his journey the following morning. He arrived safely in Cambridge that Monday afternoon. He couldn’t believe the following day was December 1st.
Twenty-five more days and Ashley would be engaged to Sam. Sam needed to start making preparations for Christmas and the week after. First, Sam needed to make arrangements with Jake to take him to the airport to pick up Ashley. He needed a few days with Ashley alone and then have Sophia drive from New York to Cambridge, stay overnight and take Ashley into New York to look for a wedding dress. He also needed to make airline reservations for Ashley, a round-trip ticket arriving the night before Christmas Eve and staying until the day after New Years.
Sam kept busy dressing up his apartment in Christmas decorations. He created the perfect CD with Christmas music. He found a cute little Christmas tree, looked like “Charlie Brown’s Christmas tree” and put it in front of the window. Sophia came from New York mid-December to help Sam decorate his apartment with a festive Christmas theme. Once they decorated the tree, it didn’t look quite so pathetic. The ambiance in the apartment was perfect! The planning was complete and he just had to wait for December 23rd.
The day arrived and Sam was as “nervous as a cat,” but the apartment looked picture perfect. There were poinsettias on the table and by the Christmas tree, flowers next to his bed, the Christmas CD was playing softly, the lights on the Christmas tree were twinkling.
Jake picked Sam up and they headed to Logan International Airport about five miles from Cambridge, found Gate 5 and waited for Ashley’s arrival. There she was, as she emerged from Gate 5. The two embraced, and Sam kissed Ashley overpoweringly, Ashley reciprocated.
On the way to Jake’s car, Sam guaranteed Ashley a wonderful Christmas. It was a short ride back to Sam’s apartment, Jake dropped them off and continued on his way.
Ashley was amazed at how festive the apartment looked and the sounds of Christmas music melodiously filled the apartment.
Ashley unpacked her belongings. Sam was sitting in front of the picturesque window staring at the Christmas tree, enjoying the Christmas music and thinking where and how he would propose to Ashley. He wanted it to be really special.
Just then Ashley came out of the bedroom and interrupted his thoughts by saying, “Sam I’m through unpacking, are you up for a romantic walk around campus? I know its freezing out there, but the campus is gorgeous with so much snow on the ground.”
Sam agreed and they both got bundled up: parka, muffler, mittens and snow-cap. The two left hand in hand for an extremely cold campus adventure. At one point Sam picked up some snow, made a snow ball, and threw it at Ashley.
A snow fight ensued! Ashley picked up some snow and threw it at Sam. Sam ran toward Ashley, picked her up and dumped her in 3 feet of snow. They wrestled for a few minutes and Ashley began making snow angels. Sam followed suit. His snow angels were much bigger than Ashley’s snow angels. The two were frozen and chose to forego the rest of their adventure and opted for a cup of hot chocolate, Christmas music and the warmth of Sam’s apartment.
They headed back to the apartment to thaw out. Once there, Ashley made hot coco for both of them. They sat enjoying the Christmas tree and music wrapped in the warmth of Sam’s apartment. Unfortunately, that wasn’t the only anatomy that was thawing out on his body. Once again, it was necessary for Sam to excuse himself and take control of the situation.
It was a double-edge sword for Ashley in that she felt bad for Sam that it was necessary for him to masturbate to keep his promise to Ashley. It also physically showed Ashley how much Sam wanted her; it made Ashley love Sam even more that he would go to extreme measures to keep his promise to her. Sam was an exceptionally good looking man with a body that most women would love to physically explore. Sam could have any woman, but he wanted and loved Ashley.
Sam knew the next days would be difficult physically for him, but he was able and willing to face it “head on.” Once again Sam could foresee a lot of cold showers in the immediate future.
The following morning Sam took care of business first. He suggested they go out for lunch and then take a ride to Revere Beach. Ashley agreed. They decided to go to Mr. Bartley’s Burger Cottage a landmark burger joint in Harvard Square.
After lunch, about 1:30 pm, they got on his Harley and headed down to Revere Beach. It was quiet on the beach due to Christmas Eve. Sam and Ashley practically had the entire beach to themselves. They walked hand-in-hand down the beach, listening to the waves beat upon the shore and talking about the past and the future. Ashley commented how much she loved how romantic the beach setting was and she was glad Sam had brought her there.
At that moment Sam took both of Ashley’s hands in his. He bent down on one knee and said, “Ashley Cooper would you do me the honor of being Mrs. Sam Collins. I love you so much, I couldn’t wait until spring! Sophia will be here Tuesday to take you to New York to find a wedding dress. I would like to get married in February, if you don’t mind?”
Ashley was speechless and then screamed YES, YES, YES! She was beside herself with joy and happiness. She could hardly wait to start her life as Mrs. Sam Collins. “Sam you make me feel like I’m walking on air. There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t feel exceptionally loved and cared for by you. You make my world sunny even if it’s cloudy or raining. You are my sunshine and I would be honored to be your wife!”
In spite they each had a goose-down parka on it was bone-chilling cold on the beach, but Sam wanted to make his proposal on the beach where Ashley made the comment, “One day I will be Mrs. Sam Collins.” They decided to walk back to the motor bike and head back to the apartment.
Once in the festive-looking apartment, Ashley made hot coco to take the chill out of their bones. Ashley said she needed to call her parents with the good news. Sam replied, “Don’t bother, they already know. I called your dad to ask him if I could ask for your hand in marriage. Since then both your mom and dad have worked with me to arrange everything.”
The next few days were relaxing and they enjoyed each other’s company. The campus was practically empty due to the Christmas holidays. Looking out the picturesque window the scenery had a striking effect on Ashley: three or four inches of snow on the ground, snow continuing to dust the already present snow, and an already bare campus. Ashley wished she were able to paint to capture this look and memory forever.
CHAPTER FOUR
It was Tuesday and Sophia was coming to Cambridge today. Ashley could hardly wait — she was excited to see her friend and, hopefully, her future Maid of Honor. Ashley never realized how much they had in common. They had truly become great friends as Sam had assured her over a year ago.
Sophia got in around 3:00 pm. After she got settled in, they bundled up and took a walk around campus. The three decided to have dinner at the Boathouse in Harvard Square. Sam had heard a lot of positive comments on their fish and chips and salmon burgers. It was a casual atmosphere. The three ordered fish and chips and Sam ordered a draft beer.
After dinner they returned to the apartment. Sam put on the Christmas CD and Ashley made hot apple cider. After sharing what had taken place since their last visit, Ashley packed an overnight bag for her trip to New York with Sophia to look for her wedding gown.
On their way to New York, Ashley asked Sophia if she would be her Maid of Honor in her upcoming nuptials. Sophia was surprised that Ashley would ask her but responded to her question, “I am flattered and would be thrilled to be your Maid of Honor.”
When they arrived in New York they went directly to Sophia’s apartment and dropped off Ashley’s overnight bag. Sophia decided to take Ashley to the top of the Empire State Building to get a better view of New York at sunset. Ashley was awe struck at the beautiful city at dusk.
Sophia wanted to take Ashley to Boulud Sud for Mediterranean style cuisine followed by a night of jazz at the Lincoln Center. She thought that would be a nice introduction to New York culture.
When they returned to Sophia’s apartment, it was roughly 11:30 pm. They both put their pajamas on and made hot cider and talked. Ashley asked Sophia how she and Sam met. Sophia laughed and said, “When Sam first came to Harvard we had two law classes and we both swam on the Crimson swim teams. I was on the women’s team and Sam was on the men’s team. Sam didn’t hang out with anyone, so I asked him one day if he wanted to go have pizza for lunch after the swim meet. He said sure, why not! After the swim meet we went to OTTO Pizzeria & Grill. All he talked about was you! He was so devoted to you, he loves you so much. He definitely was not on the open market. Just talking to Sam he made it really clear how committed and dedicated he was to you only.”
“It was refreshing to hear a man profess that type of love for a woman. I felt a surge of jealousy that I might find a man to love me like that. Enough about Sam, we need to find bridal boutiques for wedding gowns so you can try some on tomorrow. That’s our mission, we need to stay focused.”
The following day Sophia and Ashley started the day early going to places like Kleinfeld and L’Fay Bridal. The gowns were utterly gorgeous but Ashley felt she was too simple for those gowns. The prices for the gowns were far too expensive for her to even consider. She really wanted a dress that would represent her. She found just the dress, a Galena vintage style Lace Wedding Dress with Short Illusion Sleeves and her veil was a pale pink floral crown. It was elegant and beautiful and the floral crown was exactly what Ashley was looking for.
It was a successful trip to New York and both Ashley and Sophia were extremely pleased with their selection. It was time to go back to Cambridge where Sophia would spend the night and return to New York the following day. On the ride back to Cambridge the two talked non-stop. Ashley never realized they had so much in common — life, love, values and morals. She felt that Sophia was more than a friend. Ashley felt like Sophia was the sister she never had. It was a comforting feeling to know that Sophia would be there for her or Sam if needed.
Back in Cambridge, and Sophia on her way back to New York, Ashley was talking with Sam and told him what a great time she had with Sophia in New York. She confessed she felt like Sophia was more like an older sister than just a friend!
Ashley planned on going back to Galena, Illinois January 1st. The following week was physically difficult for both Sam and Ashley.
Once again, Ashley said to Sam, “Now that we are engaged this is even more difficult. Sam I love you and can’t wait to start my life with you.”
Sam replied chuckling, “Now you know how it has been for me this past year, but what do you think about getting married February 14th?”
Ashley was ecstatic and said, “Before you graduate? Sam smiled and said, “Yes! Of course, he said teasingly, but if you want to wait ….”
Ashley interrupted him, “YES, YES, and YES!”
“What do you think about getting married in Cambridge, you can come here with both our parents, Sophia can come over from New York and bring your dress, Jake is already here, and neither Jake nor I will miss any tests or classes that week? We’re going to have a small wedding anyway, just the six of us? It’s your call Ash, whatever you want to do.” Ashley made her decision.
Ashley made the arrangements for the chapel in Longfellow Park near Harvard University and for an officiator.
Sam took care of hotel accommodations for his parents, Ashley’s parents, Ashley and Sophia. Sam booked 4 rooms at the Cambridge House Inn, a cute bed and breakfast about 2 miles from Harvard Square for February 13th and 14th. He also made dinner reservations for eight at Oleana, Mediterranean style cuisine for February 14th.
Sam prepaid everything. His part-time job in HLS clerking for a federal Judge paid off. Sam was always an ambitious individual and prepared.
February 13th was just around the corner. He couldn’t wait and then it was here!
Everyone came to Cambridge, his and her parents and Ashley and Sophia, they all got settled at the Bed & Breakfast.
Around 4:00 pm on February 14th, everyone met at the chapel: their parents, Sophia and Jake, the bride and groom. It was an extremely small wedding, but the bride looked stunning in her wedding dress and pale pink floral wedding crown, Sophia her Maid of Honor wore a Sheath/column scoop neck, knee length pale pink dress that complemented Ashley’s wedding gown. The groom and his best man, Jake, wore black tuxedos and looked exceptionally handsome.
They were married and following the nuptials went to Oleana for a wedding celebration that included a romantic evening with dinner and music. Everyone had a good time laughing and carrying on when a romantic Italian song came over the speaker, Romantic Music of Italy by Maximo Spodec.
Sam asked Ashley to dance, and the two of them set the dance floor on fire. Everyone in the room eyes were fixed on their grace, beauty and elegance on the dance floor. Ashley was surprised because she had no idea Sam could ballroom dance. “I didn’t know you could ballroom dance Sam?” “Yeah, Jake signed us up so we could meet girls and I could get over you! Well, you can see how that worked out Mrs. Collins,” Sam said with a chuckle as he dipped Ashley.
The elegance and grace the two portrayed left everyone in the restaurant admiring their dancing, staring at them, and giving Sam and Ashley a standing ovation when the music concluded.
When they returned to the table Sam thanked everyone for sharing their special day with them. He said they should stay as long as they wanted, but Ashley and he were going to call it an evening.
CHAPTER FIVE
It was a night Ashley had been waiting for at least for the last five years. She had imagined in her mind’s eye how it would be? She was wearing a beautiful white negligee, somewhat form fitting, gorgeous Charmeause with a scalloped neckline. It was sleeveless and slit up the sides
Sam nearly lost it at her incredible beauty. Ashley said, “Sam, I’ve been waiting for this day my entire adult life. I’d dream about you and me together a thousand times and yet the day is here and I find myself anxious, nervous and scared.”
Sam smiled … and thought to himself …, how sweet. He knew exactly how to get Ashley to relax. Sam took Ashley’s face in both hands and placed small, butterfly kisses all over her face, eyelids, neck and shoulders. He could feel the tension in her body dissipate. He slowly took her spaghetti straps from her gown off her shoulders and her night gown dropped to the floor leaving her naked.
Sam scooped her up in his powerful arms, walked to the bedroom. He laid her gently on the bed. He stood up removing his pants. He stood there for a moment naked and then lay next to Ashley. Ashley was amazed and somewhat intimidated by his chiseled physique.
Sam could sense her trepidation and said, “Ash it has been a really long day and I feel really tired. Would you mind if we just lay here and pick this up when I am at my best. After all, I don’t want to disappoint!
They both knew each other really well. They were best friends and soon to be lovers. Sam wanted Ashley to have a great first experience. It would have to be when she was ready for the experience and Sam was willing to wait.
They talked and reminisced until Ashley fell asleep in Sam’s arms. The following morning, Ashley woke up when Sam got up to use the bathroom. Ashley said, “Sam, please don’t get up!”
“I’m just going to the bathroom, I’ll be right back.”
When he returned Ashley asked, “Where’s Sam Jr.”? Sam reassured her, “He’s around here someplace. I’m sure we’ll find him as he jumped back into bed. Here he is hiding under the covers. I told you we’d find him.”
Sam and Ashley had always been playful with one another.
Sam wanted this to be a very special time for Ashley and him, but more so for Ashley. They thought differently, but Sam had an incredible amount of respect for Ashley. He would be her first experience with a man and Sam wanted it to be memorable.
He rolled over onto his side and put his hand on Ashley’s waist, gently pulling her closer to him. He could feel her body next to his and Sam said, “Ash I have loved you for a very long time. I remember that bike ride to Revere beach when you said, one day I will be Mrs. Sam Collins and here we are as husband and wife! Thank you for waiting for your husband, thank you for waiting for me! What an incredible gift to give your husband.” With that Sam took her in his arms and kissed her, gently sucking on her tongue. He knew Ashley was enjoying him as she arched her back and thrust her chest into his.
Sam was no stranger to the bedroom or sex. He took his time with foreplay exploring every inch of Ashley’s body. She was wet aching for Sam. Sam continued kissing every part of her until she was begging Sam to make love to her.
He tenderly laid on top of Ashley and let her know his desire to make love to her too. Without speaking any words, Ashley let Sam know she was ready to receive his manhood. Ashley said, “Sam, I love you so much and I’m sorry it took me so long to come to terms with what you already knew.”
Sam lay there overwhelmed at Ashley’s beauty. He lay there for a moment taking in her beauty before he mounted her. Sam was pulsating with desire for Ashley.
Sam said, “this is your time Ash … I’ll take it as slow as you’d like”. Ashley interrupted him and said, “Sam it’s our time and I’ve waited an incredibly long time for this and I don’t want to take it slow … I trust you Sam to make love to me!”
Having said that Sam flipped over onto his back, reached over and as though Ashley were a feather he placed her on top of him. He then asked her to straddle him and get in a sitting position. She followed his direction without hesitation. Sam took her hand and placed it on his maleness. He was hard with an erection. She then leaned forward and he placed his manhood between her legs. He then asked her to sit on his manhood forcing it gently into her.
Since Ashley had never been with a man before, Sam was extra gentle with her. She could feel his fire. He was so in love with her it was difficult for him to express those feelings verbally. He put his hands on her hips slowly manipulating back and forth and up and down movements. In a short while Ashley groaned with pleasure.
Sam knew he could release the fever in his loins … finally and it felt good. He kissed her passionately!
Sam and Ashley held each other tightly basking in the knowledge they had just made love to each other for the first time ever…, and as husband and wife.
Sam knew he could show Ashley all the wonderful ways they could make love.
Their relationship was unique in that Ashley was the passionate one thinking with her heart while Sam was logical thinking and slow to react.
When Ashley got up Sam was in the living room starring out the picture sized window looking onto the campus. He had his sweat pants on and the muscles in his shoulders and back were evident from his constant working out with weights and swimming. Ashley came up behind him and wrapped her arms around his waist. “Sam, thank you for an incredible morning; and, thank you for being patient with me last night! I love you so much. I can’t believe I am Mrs. Sam Collins. I am embarrassed. You are so confident in the bed room and I feel there’s not much I can bring to the table … so to speak.”
Ashley could always find a way to lighten an awkward moment
“Ash, what’s the big deal? What we don’t know, we can learn together. Do you remember, Ash, when you were about 14 or 15 and we were talking about sex and marriage and you said ‘you can have the same experience with a 1,000 different women or you can have 1,000 different experiences with 1 woman?”
Sam smiled in a knowing way and said, “Ash I’ve been in college for years. I have always said I would do anything for you except stop living my life. The day you said to me on Revere beach, One day I will be Mrs. Sam Collins is the day I committed myself mentally, emotionally and physically to only you.”
“Speaking of Revere beach, let’s take off for the day and head down there where it all began. First, let’s head over to the Bed and Breakfast and say goodbye to Sophia and our parents.”
After their goodbyes, Sam and Ashley rode down to Revere beach on his Harley. When they got there, they headed down the beach hand-in-hand enjoying the breeze off the ocean. Ashley in a playful mood jumped on Sam’s back for a piggyback ride. Sam headed down the beach and told Ashley that she could ask anything she wanted today, but tomorrow was only about their future.
“Sam, I was wrong and should not have made any reference to your college days. There is only one question that I have thought about more than once. I don’t want you to be angry with me if I ask it.”
“Whatever you need or want to know, today is the day to ask Ash. I know you have questions about my life, I’ve been gone from Galena for some time.”
“Here goes. Sam, have you ever slept with Sophia?”
Sam dropped his hands from holding Ashley in a piggyback fashion. Spun around and grasped Ashley firmly by the shoulders and said, “NO! She was my friend then and she is our friend now and she will probably be our friend in twenty years.”
Ashley felt ashamed she asked that question. Sam took her hand and continued down the beach. The seagulls were flying past them as they walked on the beach; they could see and hear the waves crashing on the shore. They could taste the salt on their lips and smell the ocean in the air. The ocean setting was unbelievably romantic. Ashley felt so content and happy to be Mrs. Sam Collins. She didn’t want to share him with anything or anybody.
Ashley tugged at Sam’s hand and said, “Sam I ache for you … could we please go home?” Sam replied, “That’s not something you have to ask twice!” In a moments time they were on the Harley on the Blue Line heading back to their apartment.
Sam dropped Ashley off at the bottom of the stairs of their apartment while he drove off to park his bike.
In the meantime, Ashley put on white silky, baby doll sexy lingerie, with white lace panties. Sam came running up the stairs, three stairs at a time, and burst though the front door. He stopped in his tracks stunned admiring Ashley’s magnificence.
“Ash, you are full of surprises. I never expected this … you are the love of my life. I love you so much and always will.”
Just then Ashley walked over to him and said, “Every cell in my body can feel every cell in your body. Neither time nor space will ever come between our love.”
Sam looked at Ashley and cupped her face in his hands and kissed her overpoweringly. He scooped her up in his arms and carried her to their bedroom for an encore performance of that morning. When he put her down, Ashley said “not now, I’m making love to my husband.” She began unbuttoning his cuffs then slowly began unbuttoning the front of his shirt she kissed his chest tenderly, his shoulders and the inside of his arms. She could physically see Sam was enjoying her touch.
Ashley slowly unbuckled and unzipped his pants and kissed him softly all over his chest and stomach. Ashley put her hands behind his shoulders and slipped his shirt off. In the meantime Sam slipped his loafers off. In a sassy, playful and powerful way Ashley pushed Sam onto the bed, ripping his pants off his body. A side of Ashley that Sam could easily get used to! He chuckled at her aggressiveness and the two started wrestling in bed which ended in a pillow fight!
When they settled down, Ashley told Sam that she had been accepted to the University of California Los Angeles in the fall. The timing was perfect as Sam was in his last few months of law school at Harvard and he was anxious for a different environment. Los Angeles was where Sam would begin his career in law enforcement, something he always wanted to do since he was a young boy.
Sam and Ashley were truly best friends! They knew each other’s needs and wants and fully supported and trusted each other.
At that point Sam decided to pick up where Ashley left off. In the heat of the moment Sam picked up Ashley and put her on top of him. In a few minutes Ashley was begging Sam to finish what she started. The sound of her orgasm immediately made Sam have an orgasm. Ashley, hot and sweaty, only had enough strength to squeak out “WOW.” Sam chuckled and said, “Ash I told you we will learn to make our own music.” The two fell into each other’s arms for an afternoon of contentment. Sam placed his leg over Ashley’s body, his arm over her torso. She was so diminutive she got lost under his masculine frame.
Sam graduated from Harvard Law in the spring of that year. Sophia came over from New York to see Sam graduate and see and talk with Ashley. It was time to organize and get ready for their move to the West Coast. Both Sam and Ashley were excited about their new adventure to Los Angeles.
CHAPTER SIX
In July, Sam loaded up the U-Haul truck that Ashley drove and Sam followed her on his Harley. It would be a tedious drive, approximately 3,000 miles or two days straight through to Los Angeles. They decided to make it an exciting activity from the east to the west coast stopping at interesting places along the way.
Sam planned ten days to get to Los Angeles. He felt that it would be good for both of them to enjoy the sights and sounds of their journey west.
Their sex life was never better as neither of them had the pressures of school deadlines. However, Ashley never had any complaints before Sam graduated!
Their first stop as husband and wife was New York City to visit their good friend, Sophia. Sophia graduated from Harvard Law a year earlier and moved to New York where she immediately found a job at a prestigious law firm.
Sophia was anxious to meet Sam and Ashley for lunch at Jean-Georges where they served French cuisine. It was approximately 4+hour’s drive from Cambridge, Massachusetts to New York.
When they arrived at the restaurant they were captivated by its elegance with floor to ceiling windows overlooking Central Park.
Sophia arrived at the restaurant first and waved to Sam and Ashley when they arrived. They hugged and couldn’t wait to get caught up on the last 3 or 4 months.
Ashley had become great friends with Sophia too, just as Sam said a couple of years earlier. Sophia helped Ashley pick out her wedding dress a few months earlier. Sophia was Ashley’s Maid of Honor and Jake was Sam’s Best Man in their wedding in Cambridge.
Ashley couldn’t stop admiring Sophia’s statuesque attractiveness. She really was an Italian beauty. She was approximately 5’9”, with dark brown hair and wore a dark-green business suit. Ashley remembered the first time she saw Sophia at the swim meet at Harvard. She laughs now, but then it made her flee the natatorium in tears. She caught the first plane back to Galena crying all the way home.
That seemed so long ago but since that time Ashley and Sophia had become really good friends.
Before they left New York, Sam insisted they take advantage of a romantic 3-hour carriage ride in Central Park. The view of New York skyline was incredible. The romance shared between Ashley and Sam was a treasured 3-hours.
When they finished the carriage ride, it was nearly 5:00 pm and it was roughly 14 ½ hours on the I-80 to Galena. It was time to set out for Galena, Illinois where it began so many years ago.
Their parents were anxious to see them. They always knew they would marry one day. Now they were heading to Los Angeles to start a new chapter in their “Book of Life.” The romantic carriage ride effects would have to wait until after Galena, which was disheartening to both Ashley and Sam. As if their moms and dads expected the newly-weds to behave themselves. For Sam and Ashley it was a feeling of being uncomfortable in the houses they grew-up in and respect for their parents.
After they left Galena and got on the I-90 to Chicago, they chose routes that would allow them the opportunity to visit historical museums, birthplaces, and libraries. They both wanted to see “The Famous Gunfights Wax Museum” in Dodge City, Kansas: Frank & Jesse James, Billy the Kid, Doc Holiday, etc. They wanted a restful, peaceful trip to Los Angeles. They also wanted this trip to be the honeymoon they were unable to take because Sam was in his final months in the law program at Harvard.
They were definitely in their very early months of being married. Sam felt in his heart the rest of their lives would be their honeymoon.
Sam was unloading some suitcases at a motel when Ashley said, “Sam what’s wrong? You seem preoccupied in your thoughts?” Ashley knew Sam so well. Sam loved Ashley and would never do or say anything that might hurt her feelings or offend her. Ashley kept on asking Sam to please trust her. Sam finally opened up. “Did you know there are many types of ways to make love? Ashley said, “Really! Please share?” Sam said, “1. Making love 2. Hot and sweaty sex and, 3. Plain old #*#!*#!
Ashley replied, “Do tell!” Sam said, “Sometimes a man just needs to take care of business … kind of like ‘wham, bam thank you mam. It doesn’t mean I love you any less. What it means is a man has certain needs that need to be taken care of without emotional feelings, just physical feelings.
Ashley replied, “We’ve tried Doors 1 and 2. Let’s go for Door number 3!” Sam laughed,made a motion like the Genie in Aladdin and said, “Your wish is my command..”
With that being said, Sam opened the motel door, threw the suitcases in the room and roughly grabbed Ashley for some unemotional, hot sex. When they were both satisfied, Sam said, “Thanks Ash, I needed that. You are an amazing woman … an amazing friend.”
The entire experience was so erotic Sam went for Door 1 immediately after their orgasms. It completely caught Ashley by surprise, but she was not complaining.
Since Ashley already had her legs wrapped around Sam’s waist, he just walked over to the bed and sat on the edge of the bed, kissing her softly on her face, neck and shoulders. They both liked Ashley on top because he was 6’4” and she was quite tiny and Sam felt like he would crush her if he was on top.
Sam simply lay back onto the bed, pulled Ashley down close to him and professed his deep and abiding love for her. He then apologized to her saying, “Ash, I’m sorry but I can’t get enough of you emotionally or physically.”
After their afternoon delight, they got dressed and looked for a local diner for dinner and then perhaps a movie.
The following morning they mapped out their next destination, Denver, Colorado by way of Interstate 90. It was approximately 400 miles. They wanted to spend a couple of days at “The Garden of the Gods,” geological formations. This place featured unbelievable rock formations and the hiking was great: challenging and invigorating. Sam hadn’t had an opportunity to swim or work out since he and Ashley began their adventure west, hiking was just what he needed.
The following evening, Sam mapped out the route to SLC, Utah from Colorado Springs using I-80, which was roughly 10 hours. One of Sam’s favorite things to do was spoon with Ashley at night and pillow talk about things they wanted to see and do, their immediate future, life in Los Angeles and children.
Sam already knew that Ashley wanted to see the Salt Lake Temple in Temple Square and it was too early for Sam to see a Utah Jazz basketball game. It was between the Red Butt Garden and Arboretum and Heritage Park. Sam would leave the sightseeing for Ashley to decide. Ashley really wanted to see a lot of Utah but unfortunately fall was fast approaching and so was UCLA.
It was time to travel from Salt Lake City to St. George, Utah via I-15. It was roughly a 4 or 5 hour drive. Zion National Park was on their way to St. George, but unfortunately because they chose to spend 3 days in St. George they had to forgo Zion.
The beauty of the town and surrounding areas was extraordinary. The Tuacahn Center for the Arts was definitely something both Sam and Ashley were looking forward to seeing! There was so much terrain to explore. There were countless things to do on scenic pathways: walking, bicycling, hiking trails, running and so much more.
The first night they were there they saw a play, “Mary Poppins” at the Tuacahn Center for the Arts. It was truly a beautiful little city. Sam and Ashley talked about living there after Ashley graduated from UCLA.
They stayed at the Crystal Inn Hotel and Suites right off I-15. There were so many things to do in this community.
The next morning, Ashley wanted Sam to take her around St. George on his bike. It was a beautiful day in spite it was a little warm. They got dressed in their jeans, shirt and appropriate shoes. Ashley was really excited to see the community. Sam started the engine and they were off.
It was approximately 2–1/2 hours into their sight-seeing tour when Sam lost control of his bike when he hit an oil-slick on Interstate 15 just outside of St. George. Both Sam and Ashley were thrown from the motor bike and it landed on its side. Sam sustained road rash, but it was necessary for an ambulance to take Ashley to Dixie Regional Medical Center’s emergency room! The prognosis was overwhelming for Sam.
Ashley didn’t have her helmet fastened and when the bike hit the guard rail the force knocked her helmet off and she hit her head hard on the pavement.
The prognosis was not good. Ashley suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI). The doctor suggested putting Ashley in a medically induced coma to give Ashley’s brain time to heal from the swelling. They would do another brain scan when the swelling subsided.
Sam immediately called his parents and told them what happened. He then said he was calling Ashley’s parents and would they please go over to their house to support and be with them when he called.
He then mustered up the courage to call them. You could hear the concern in his voice. Sam told them what happened and tried to sound encouraging that Ashley was in a medically induced coma to protect her brain. Sam told them to stay put and if anything changed, he would keep in close contact with them.
He then called Sophia at work. He told her what happened. She asked Sam where he and Ashley were at. Sophia hung the phone up and immediately called the airlines to book a flight from New York to St. George Municipal
Airport.
Sophia was extremely good at law and quickly rose to the rank as partner at this prestigious law firm. As partner, it was easy for Sophia to take time off.
Sophia rented a car when she arrived in St. George and headed directly to Dixie Regional Medical Center which was about 20 minutes from the airport.
When she arrived at DRMC, she looked everywhere for Sam and finally found him in the hospital chapel. He was sitting in a pew with his head down and his shoulders slumped forward. He looked as though life had defeated him.
Sophia felt helpless but was there to support her friends. Sophia put her arms around Sam and said, “Sam, what happened?” “Sophia, it happened so fast. I slipped on oil and lost control of the bike … the bike hit a guard rail really hard knocking both of us off the bike. I suffered really bad road rash. Ash’s helmet was not secured and flew off her head and Ash hit the pavement hard head first. Sophia, I feel powerless … I don’t know what to do. I came here to the chapel and I realized this is Ash’s department. I don’t even know how to pray!”
Sophia understood his pain and quietly said, “Just talk to God as though he was your best friend. He will hear you. He will give you strength and direction Sam. Everything will be ok. I will be here for you and Ashley and when she is able to travel, I will drive the U-haul to Los Angeles with Ashley. Right now I’m going to look in on Ashley and then get a motel room near this hospital. I will come back as soon as I get settled.”
Sophia found a motel that was about ½ mile to the hospital, the Suntime. Sophia got settled in and headed back to the hospital. This time she went directly to Ashley’s room where she found Sam watching over her.
The doctors had put Ashley in a medically induced coma until the swelling in her brain subsided. Sophia told Sam he really should eat something and Ashley would be fine until they returned. They had a bite to eat at the Sandstone Café at Dixie Regional. Sam was grateful he didn’t have to leave the hospital.
When they returned, the doctor was in Ashley’s room. The color in Sam’s face turned ash gray.
The doctor said, “Tomorrow we will reverse the coma. We just took a brain scan and the brain is no longer swollen.” Sam was beside himself with joy. He kept saying. “Thank you dear God. Thank you, thank you, thank you!”
Sam immediately called Ashley’s parents and told them the good news and they would head-out for Los Angeles as soon as Ashley was ready to travel. He also reassured the Coopers that Sophia flew in from New York and was going to drive the U-haul and Ashley to Los Angeles. He asked Mr. Cooper to please relay the good news and info to his parents.
Sam, Ashley and Sophia set out for Los Angeles about one week later. Their first goal was to find a place for Ashley to rest and then Sam and Sophia would look for an apartment close to UCLA.
They rented two rooms at UCLA Tiverton House about 2 miles from UCLA and just off the 405 freeway. Sam and Sophia set out to find an apartment close to campus.
They had gotten settled into their new apartment near UCLA. Ashley registered for the fall semester focusing on her general study classes. Sophia felt Ashley was well on the road to recovery. It was time for Sophia to return to New York.
Sam and Ashley took Sophia to LAX Airport for a return flight to New York.
CHAPTER SEVEN
It was Saturday and Ashley had done little since the accident in St. George, Utah. She suggested to Sam they head down to Santa Monica beach for the day.
Sam agreed, but before they left, Sam shared his concern with Ashley regarding being on the Harley. Ashley simply said “that was an accident and I cannot live my life in fear of a motorcycle.” Ashley began to cry at the thought of what happened in St. George. She was so beautiful Sam thought to himself. Sam loved her so much. Sam leaned over and kissed her sadness away and said, “We’ll be ok Ash, I promise!”
They got on the Harley heading south on I-405 to the I-10 west to Santa Monica, which took approximately 20 minutes.
When they arrived there was so much to see and do: shops, cafes, restaurants, amusement park and an aquarium; including a three mile coastline that had walking and biking paths.
Because this was Ashley’s first outing since the accident, Sam didn’t want her to over-do-it. He suggested a leisurely walk down the beach. Ashley settled on Sam’s proposal.
It was a beautiful day. A slight breeze rolled off the Pacific Ocean and Sam carried Ashley down the beach piggy-back style, Ashley’s favorite way to travel. His 6’4” frame and her 5’5” frame made it easy for Sam to carry her.
This stroll down the beach reminded Sam of Revere beach in Massachutes. At that very moment, Ashley jumped off Sam’s back stood in front of him looked up at his piercing green eyes and said, “Sam could we go home, please!”
Sam knew Ashley so well he didn’t have to ask why. They headed back to where Sam parked the bike, jumped on and headed back to their apartment
Ashley was in an extraordinarily playful mood. Sam was unsure that she was up to some afternoon delight so he chose to follow her lead. It had been awhile since they had made love. Actually it had been right before the accident in St. George.
Sam plopped down in his favorite chair while Ashley changed into her playful attire. She came from the bedroom wearing a beautiful white, laced teddy. She sultry walked over to the CD player and put some romantic Italian music on to set the mood for a passionate yet tender afternoon with the love of her life.
She walked over to where Sam was sitting and sat gingerly on his lap. She began with butterfly kisses all over his face. She slowly unbuttoned his shirt and began kissing his chest. She looked at him and he passionately kissed her, telling Ashley how much he loved and adored her.
Sam picked up Ashley and walked to their bedroom. He was a little anxious
because of the accident and whether or not he should take advantage of Ashley’s playfulness.
Just then Ashley could sense Sam’s hesitancy and reluctance and she said, “Sam it’s been awhile since we made love but, I can assure you I’m not broken. Everything works fine on my end. Everything ok on your end? You don’t seem UP for this adventure”.
Sam laughed! Ashley could always make an awkward moment seem silly.
“Ash, I’m just worried about you! Are you up for this? You know how attracted I am to you“.
“Sam, I’m ok. I’m sure you’ll sense it if this becomes too much for me. Until then, let’s play,” Ashley said with a smile.
It was an afternoon of tender love. It was reminiscent of the morning after their wedding night. Their afternoon delight soon turned into dinner in bed and an evening of love, spooning, talking and more love.
“And you thought I wasn’t up to the task, Ashley smiled. Sam we have been friends for what seems to be an eternity. I love you so much! It’s difficult for me to express what I feel. The only way to say this is I can feel your presence when you’re not here, you are with me! It’s almost like we are one.”
The night ended when Ashley fell asleep in Sam’s arms.
The following Monday, Ashley started at UCLA. Her courses were in media and communication studies. She had always been interested in current affairs so reporting the news seemed to be a natural fit.
Ashley proved to be an excellent student. A couple months into her studies Ashley decided to try and find a job in the news industry. She realized she would start at the very bottom but the experience, along with her studies at UCLA, would be valuable.
Ashley shared her plan with Sam. He thought her career strategy was sound. He did state his apprehension that she might over-do-it. Ashley assured Sam she was excited about the prospect of working in the news industry and was ready for the challenge. She was confident her studies would not suffer and if she felt her studies were being compromised, she would quit her job.
Sam agreed! He was making enough money as a patrol officer so that Ashley could concentrate on her studies at UCLA. If she chose to work that would be a financial plus but a second income was not needed or necessary in the Collins’ home. Sam was emphatic that if it got too difficult, Ashley could quit. Ashley agreed!
The next day, in between her class studies, Ashley was driving to various news stations looking for any opening. The last station she went to KCLA she was met by a Mr. Tony Adams the news director. Ashley explained she was studying communications at UCLA and hoped to find an evening position in any capacity that would allow her to continue her day studies while learning the industry.
Mr. Adams hit it off immediately with Ashley and hired her for an evening position as a researcher on feature stories and specials they would be airing.
Ashley could not wait to get home and tell Sam the good news. “Sam, Sam, I got an evening job at KCLA doing research work on specials, feature stories or whatever is needed.
Sam was happy for Ashley, but he wanted desperately to shield her from the realities of life. Sam knew it was time — time for Ashley to find her way in life, a time for her to experience life as it really was …. The news job at KCLA would expose her to the harsh realities of life.
Being a patrol officer Sam had seen first-hand the seedy part of life. The job at KCLA would introduce her to the very things Sam tried to shelter her from. He never really spoke about his job, not that Ashley didn’t inquire daily. Sam would basically say, “Not much,” or “a lot of tickets today.”
Ashley started at KCLA the following day and loved the research work. She would go home late at night and excitedly share her day with Sam.
As the months progressed her research work became increasingly more in-depth statistics on crime: murder, rape, and assaults. Ashley was able to keep up on her studies and work at KCLA. Mr. Adams transferred to the later shift due to personal family reasons.
It was clear that Mr. Adams was grooming Ashley for something, but it wasn’t clear for what …, perhaps a field reporter.
Ashley was committed to her education at UCLA where she went to school, work and home to be with Sam after work. That was her daily routine and she loved her life. The only thing that was missing was a baby.
Ashley and Sam discussed having children early-on in their marriage. Ashley decided to bring the subject up when she got home from work. They talked for a few minutes about her job and how happy she was. She said, “Sam I feel incredibly happy and full of joy. Let me change out of these work clothes. I’ll be right back!”
When she returned she was wearing a one-piece black Speedo swimsuit. She said, “Let’s go down to the in-door pool, you can do a few laps and I’ll sit in the hot tub.”
Sam said, “Sounds like a plan.”
Just then Ashley seemed as though she was off balance. “Are you ok Ash?” Yes, I just felt a little light headed. I feel ok now.” Sam was troubled about what had just occurred but Ashley reassured him it only lasted a few second and she was fine. Sam suggested she stay in the pool and forego the hot tub, just to be on the safe-side.
Sam did 10 x 50 meter laps. His swimming form was as good as it was on the Crimson Swim team at Harvard. He was an impressive swimmer and wasn’t even winded after swimming 500 meters. As hard as Sam worked, he managed to keep a routine exercise regime with daily weight-lifting and 5-mile runs.
Sam and Ashley goofed around in the pool for awhile before they headed back to their apartment. Feeling refreshed and invigorated, it was a good time for Ashley to bring up the subject of making a baby in which she already knew Sam would have no problem accommodating her.
What Ashley didn’t realize was she was already pregnant and her baby girl was about three months and ready to make her presence known.
“Sam what are your thoughts and feelings on starting a family? A baby is the only thing missing to complete us. I would love to be a family!”
Sam laughed, “I believe I’m up for the challenge to impregnate you, I would love to make a baby with you. You do realize that will take a concentrated effort on both of us, which means daily play time.”
Ashley laughed and said, “copy that!’
The next couple of days, as much as Ashley wanted her play time with Sam, physically she was not able to accommodate both of their desire … to try to get pregnant.
After the fourth day of feeling sick, nauseous, fatigued, and unable to eat anything Ashley decided to take a home pregnancy test unbeknownst to Sam.
She stopped at a local drug store after getting off work at KCLA and headed to their apartment. Sam was already home and in his sweat pants getting ready for his daily run. Sam asked Ashley how she was feeling before he left for his evening run. Ashley wanted to share the news, if any, with Sam so she waited to take the pregnancy test when Sam returned from his run.
About thirty minutes later Sam finished his run and came bouncing through the front door invigorated and ready for some evening delight. Sam got undressed and asked Ashley if she wanted to join him in the shower? She took one look at him amazed at his physic. He figuratively had the body of a Greek god. Ashley had a momentary flash-back to Sam’s teenage years when he was extremely tall, lanky and clumsy. Now this Greek god whose body looked like the Greek god David was hers and Sam looked at her as though she were Aphrodite, the goddess of love.
She forgot about the pregnancy test for the moment; removed her work clothes and jumped in the shower with Sam. They played for awhile, laughing and carrying on then play turned into passion!
It was as if the two had never made love before …they were caught up in each other. At that moment nothing else existed but the two of them touching and feeling each other as if it were their first time together.
Sam instinctively was aware of Ashley and her response to his sexual assertiveness. He placed his hands on her face and kissed her overpoweringly and raised her arms above her head pinning her up against the shower wall. The warm water cascaded over their soapy, naked bodies.
Ashley was following Sam’s lead, completely trusting his sexual self-confidence and aggressive behavior. This was a side to Sam that Ashley was unfamiliar with but found it extremely erotic and arousing.
Ashley’s next move was placing her hands behind Sam’s neck, looking up into his sexy green eyes saying, “WOW, where have you been and what did you do with my husband?” Not that Ashley ever had any complaints about their love-making. This was new and very exhilarating.”
Sam chuckled saying, “It’s nice to mix things up. Ash I love you, but I would never do anything you were uncomfortable with and I will always try to keep our life and love-making fresh and exciting.” At that instant Ashley jumped up and wrapped her legs around Sam’s waist. Sam opened the shower door, grabbed a towel and wrapped it the best that he could around Ashley drying the excessive water off her. He then proceeded to their bedroom where Sam showed Ashley his deep, profound physical love for her.
Sam knew Ashley was enjoying his love as she had arched her back, her nipples were hard and he was enjoying her low, sweet moaning. Sam made love to her in a way
that Ashley had never experienced before.
When they both came up for air, Ashley completely forgot what her intent was for that evening, to take a home pregnancy test. Ashley threw on one of Sam’s t-shirts, excused herself and went into the bathroom.
In the meantime, Sam got up, put a clean pair of sweat pants on, walked out to the living room and plopped down in his favorite chair waiting for Ashley to return.
Ashley came running out of the bathroom into the living room yelling “Sam, Sam we’re pregnant.” Sam was elated, “I knew I was good, but I didn’t know I was that good” Sam said with a hardy laugh. Ashley sat on his lap and they embraced thanking God for this awesome blessing.
They retired to their bedroom for the night around 2:00 am. It was good that both of them had a late working shift because they spooned and talked about life with a baby for a good two hours. They were both so excited about the news. A family was in the making.
Sam didn’t want Ashley to be overwhelmed with pregnancy, school and work. Ashley said she was up to the task and she would back off work if she felt snowed under.
The following afternoon Ashley told the news director she was pregnant, she didn’t want any special treatment and if they needed to find someone else for that position, she completely understood.
Mr. Adams had the utmost respect for Ashley and her work ethics. He saw something in Ashley and made a decision that even surprised Ashley! She could continue as a researcher for the 11:00 pm news. He assured her that was her job and at any time she felt inundated and needed time off, he understood. Plus, he told Ashley she could work from home on Wednesdays.
Mr. Adams didn’t want to lose Ashley as an employee. He had plans for her future when she graduated from UCLA.
The days and months came and went. Ashley was doing well in school. Her job at KCLA added realism to her studies; and, in fact, it made her classes much easier.
Sam on the other hand enjoyed watching Ashley get bigger and bigger as the months passed. He particularly liked to watch Ashley waddle down the hall to the baby’s room.
Ashley was having complications early in her third Trimester with vaginal spotting. Sam and Ashley went together to see her OB/GYN to make sure everything was normal. Common pregnancy symptoms include spotting and contractions in a normal pregnancy or it could be signs of trouble. Sam chose to err on the side of caution.
The OB/GYN put Ashley on bed rest for the last three weeks of her pregnancy. Ashley thought that was ridiculous but Sam insisted she follow the doctor’s instructions. She called and spoke with Mr. Adams at KCLA. He completely understood and told her if she needed anything at all please call him. He said he was aware Sam also worked nights; he said, “if you need anything, I’m closer to you than Sam is and would be happy to help.”
The weeks seemed to crawl by and Ashley was getting very restless and uncomfortable. It was in her third week Ashley got up to get some milk around 7:30 pm when her water broke. Ashley immediately called 911 and then called Sam. She told Sam her water broke and she would meet him at the UCLA hospital.
When Sam got to the hospital he learned that Ashley would have to have their baby girl by cesarean due to her frame being too small for the baby to go through the birth canal. The nurse assured Sam that many women give birth by cesarean and it would take approximately 1-hour from initial cut to removing the placenta and suturing.
When Ashley and Sam came out of surgery, Sam was beaming. Ashley was still groggy from the general anesthesia, but she and Sam wanted to confirm their baby’s name … they both agreed they were going to name her Sophia!
It would take approximately 4 to 6 weeks to recover from a C-section. Sam took the time to call his parents, Ashley’s parents and Sophia. Ashley’s mom was going to fly to LAX to help when she first came home from the hospital with their baby. Next, Sam’s mom was going to fly out to Los Angeles for three weeks to help Ashley with their new baby girl, Sophia. Finally Sophia was going to come and visit with her very good friends Sam and Ashley, and be introduced to the little girl that was named after her, Sophia.
Ashley was recovering nicely with the help of her mom, her mother-in-law and Sophia. Sam was an incredible doting father. He was extremely involved in every aspect of little Sophia’s life: feeding, changing and bathing. Ashley smiled and said, “Sophia is definitely going to be daddy’s little girl.” Sam was holding little Sophia in his brawny arms and gave a loving smile back and said, “It’s hard to believe that little Sophia is the product of our love for each other.”
After about 2 months everyone had departed and Sam, Ashley and little Sophia were on their own. As exciting as it was to begin life as their own family, Ashley felt some anxiety about being a new mom. Questions all new moms ask themselves.
Ashley shared her thoughts with Sam. Sam laughed and said, “Ash you’re going to be an amazing mom. We’re in this together remember this is my first time being a dad too. We’ll learn together, Ash!”
CHAPTER EIGHT
The months passed quickly and both Sam and Ashley returned to their respective jobs. Sam on the 3:00 to 11:00 pm patrols shift and Ashley 3:00 to 11:00 pm news shift at KCLA. They had one of Ashley’s college friends take care of little Sophia while they were at work.
Both mother and father doted on Sophia. Sophia was the center of their world. Before they got settled into being new parents, Sophia began wanting to stand and try walking. The time passed far too quickly for Sam and Ashley.
Before they knew it, they were planning their daughter’s first birthday party. Sam was busy making plane reservations for his parents, Ashley’s parents and Sophia. Sam’s grandfather passed earlier in the year and left Sam and Ashley a sizable inheritance which allowed Sam the ability and luxury of flying everyone from the East coast to Los Angeles. Everyone was excited to attend little Sophia’s birthday party. Sam and Ashley were having fun planning it! They realized little Sophia wouldn’t remember her 1st birthday party, but they wanted to make it memorable for her, albeit it was really more for mom and dad. The only people attending her birthday party would be all four Grandparents, Sophia and Sam and Ashley.
In the meantime, Ashley was busy ordering a theme cake, finding theme oriented plates etc. and finding lots and lots of presents for little Sophia’s birthday party.
First, Ashley stopped by a party supply house and selected Disney’s Sophia party theme, which was absolutely perfect because of the name, Sophia. Everything was theme oriented including: cake, table cloth, napkins and cups.
Next, start finding lots and lots of presents. Little Sophia was a July baby and it was getting unseasonably warm. Ashley also bought a baby swimming pool at Toys R Us, it was a Jungle Canopy play pool, and really cute mini mouse swim suit and suit cover up for little Sophia so she could play in the pool after her birthday party. The suit cover up was to protect little Sophia’s delicate porcelain white skin from burning.
The party went off without a hitch and everyone had a good time, especially little Sophia. What Ashley and Sam noticed was that little Sophia loved the water as much as Sam did when he swam on the Crimson team at Harvard. Ashley was a shutterbug and caught every aspect of little Sophia’s party.
Everyone flew home to their respective cities the following Monday. Sam took on a new goal. Get in the apartment’s swimming pool daily with little Sophia teaching her how to have fun in the water. Ashley was about to start her third year in college at UCLA in September.
The remainder of the summer both Sam and Ashley got in the pool with Sophia. She really enjoyed getting in the water with mom and dad and splashing around. Sam had high-hopes that one day she too would swim on a college team.
Summer ended and Ashley continued her studies in Communications and working at KCLA. She was doing really well in school but this year her research assignments were turning into writing and producing feature stories for the 11:00 pm news cast.
Ashley felt she was progressing nicely at KCLA. She enjoyed writing and producing news stories. In Ashley’s thoughts, school was simply a means to an end. She learned practical application at KCLA. However, she did recognize the importance of both.
Ashley’s third year at UCLA proved to be exciting both educationally and at work. Ashley’s writing assignments for feature stories dove-tailed nicely with her school curriculum.
In the meantime, Sam and Ashley moved their morning pool time with Sophia to a local gym that had an Olympic size in-door pool. After an hour or so of play time with Sophia in the pool, Sam worked out by doing laps in the pool followed by free weights and running. While Sam was working out Ashley spent quality mommy and daughter time at a near-by park where she could play with other toddlers her age. They met back at the apartment around 11:30 am, just in time for lunch.
After lunch Sophia was put down for her afternoon nap. Sam and Ashley also lay down for their nap but there was more playing than sleeping. Sam promised himself that he would always have time for his number one sweetheart, Ashley.
The year passed quickly and Ashley wrote and produced several feature stories as well as hard news stories. The news director, Mr. Adams, was really pleased with her work and decided to give her an assignment worthy of her writing and investigating skills.
In the spring of that year Ashley was assigned a hard-hitting 1-hour special called AMERICA WAKE UP — The untold story. Her focus was the making of a serial killer. It would be aired the following summer just after she graduated from UCLA.
The project gave Ashley plenty of time to focus on her last year at UCLA, concentrate on her and Sam’s center-of-attention, little Sophia; and to do the necessary research, writing and producing to make this an exceptional television program; a hard-hitting, heart-felt, award-winning news special.
Ashley felt extremely positive about the direction her career was taking. Not only was she writing a hard-hitting news special for airing the following summer, she also had several projects in the works to be aired throughout the year.
Ashley’s first priority was Sam and little Sophia and she made that very clear to Mr. Adams the news director. She rarely stayed after work for writing or research assignments.
CHAPTER NINE
Ashley was getting off the late shift at KCLA, where she worked for the past six years. When she first started working at the CBS affiliate it was as a paid intern while she was in college.
She was well liked and began writing and producing feature stories in her junior year at UCLA. The News Director, Tony Adams, liked Ashley’s work and work ethics and believed she would go far at the affiliate.
In Ashley’s senior year, she began writing and producing hard-hitting news stories. The News Director worked with Ashley so she was able to attend school in the mornings and be with Sam and their baby in the afternoon, so he assigned her to work the 3:00 to 11:00 pm working shift. The day finally came Ashley would be graduating from UCLA with a degree in journalism. Sam was excited for her and proud of her accomplishments. He knew it wasn’t easy raising their baby girl, little Sophia, going to school and working as a reporter.
Ashley was given the day off at the news station by the News Director Mr. Adams. Sam decided after the graduation ceremony, he would have the entire evening to wine and dine his wife.
Sophia came from New York to share in Ashley’s big day. She was excited to see Sam and Ashley. She hadn’t seen them since little Sophia first birthday party. She also agreed to take care of little Sophia while Sam took his wife to a Hotel to share an evening of romance and love.
Sam made dinner reservations at Sprazzo Cucina Italiana. Ashley favorite food was Italian. The atmosphere of the restaurant was romantic, intimate and cozy. The Italian music stirred up the same emotions of love for Ashley that he felt when he and Jake met at Pinocchio’s Pizza and Subs in Harvard Square his first year at law school.
Following dinner Sam planned a night of romance at the Hilgard House in Westwood.
Sam had arranged roses, chocolate dipped strawberries and Champagne to be in their room when they arrived. Romantic music was also being played on the CD.
As much as Sam loved being with his daughter little Sophia. He was grateful to have this evening alone with Ashley!
When they arrived at the hotel, they went up to their room. Sam had romance on his mind the entire evening. He immediately brought out the chocolate covered strawberries then drew Ashley close to him and slow danced to an incredibly romantic Italian song. Once again, Sam was showing off his skills in ballroom dancing when he grabbed Ashley and spun her around then holding her tightly as they danced around the suite together.
Sam was setting the mood for a night of romance and making love. After the song was finished, Ashley excused herself and went into their bedroom. She emerged wearing a beautiful tan and lace detailed gown with a thong panty negligee that had double slits up the front.
In spite she had had a child, she looked amazing. Ashley was no longer the frightened, timid girl he remembered on their first night together. Ashley was now a woman and knew exactly what she wanted in the bedroom and in her life.
Sam was in awe of Ashley’s beauty. Ashley was a confident young woman that was still deeply in love with her childhood sweetheart, Sam. Tonight would be a night of reacquainting themselves with each other.
They spooned and talked, one of their favorite things to do, until the wee hours of the morning. They talked about everything and how exciting their future looked. It was at that time Ashley decided to give Sam her good news.
“Sam, now that I have graduated from UCLA, Mr. Adams told me yesterday that starting next Monday I will be the co-anchor on the 11:00 PM news. It will also include a nice pay raise.”
Sam was ecstatic! “Enough with the pillow talk, it’s time to try for a brother or sister for little Sophia!”
With that incentive, Sam rolled over on his back and lifted Ashley on top of him. Ashley passionately kissed her husband and she could feel his manhood rising to the occasion.
The rest of their evening was spent in the throes of passion jokingly throwing out baby boy’s names. Sam chuckled and said, “We’re going to have a boy this time.” Ashley said with a smile on her face, “Sam we’re not even pregnant.”Sam said, “We will be after tonight.” Ashley laughed!
The following day Sam and Ashley headed home. Their time alone was cherished but it was over, they were anxious to get back to Sophia and little Sophia
Ashley joined the anchor position the following Monday. She worked in that position for several years anchoring the 11:00 pm news and doing special feature stories on hard-hitting issues.
On the home-front, little Sophia was growing like a weed. Sam continued his swimming lessons with little Sophia. Every day Sam took Little Sophia to the pool for swimming lessons she started with the guppies swim team and moved up quickly to the minnow’s swim team.
Ashley got little Sophia signed up in ballet. She began with the Tippy toes and quickly moved into the 3 year old classes. She was graceful in the pool and out. Both Sam and Ashley were very hands-on parents.
Whatever spare time they had it was spent as a family. They all went to the park for a Saturday picnic and feeding the ducks in the small lake. Little Sophia said she wanted to grow up and be an anchor like mommy.
Ashley said, “Sophia, you can be anything you want to be. You have lots of time to decide. Now is the time to enjoy life. You can explore all sorts of life experiences before you decide. Your father and I will support you in whatever you choose to do.”
After they returned from their picnic, Ashley quickly got ready for work. When she got to the station she went through her mail. Since being in the co-anchor position, Ashley often received fan mail. However, over the last three or four months Ashley had received some disturbing mail from a so-called admirer.
At first Ashley didn’t take the letters seriously at all. This particular day Ashley received an alarming letter and wanted Sam to read it and let her know his thoughts.
Sam asked, “How long have you been receiving this type of unsettling mail? Have you discussed this with the News Director?”
Ashley could see how upset Sam was over the letter. Over all the years they had known each other, Sam had never raised his voice to Ashley and this was the first time she could see real concern on his face.
Sam said, “Ashley, you cannot take this lightly. You need to make the News Director aware of this tomorrow!”
Ashley agreed. She could see the letter had really upset Sam. Sam had joined the Los Angeles Police Department when they first got settled into Los Angeles years earlier as a patrol officer and later became a homicide detective. As a homicide detective he saw a lot of crime which Ashley believed jaded his perception of the significance of the letter.
Ashley completely forgot to tell the news director the following day. She was working on another news story on serial killers and her deadline for airing the story was fast approaching.
Since the taunting letters stopped coming, Ashley decided to put the incident on the back-burner as unimportant and insignificant, never communicating that information to Sam. Not because she was being deceitful, but because she simply didn’t think it was important.
Ashley continued her research on serial killers, occasionally asking Sam for his professional input on murder, mass murders and serial killers.
Both Ashley and Sam were basically working on the same project: Sam would find and arrest killers, Ashley would report it on the news. Ashley was also working fervently on another special story on “The making of a Serial Killer-Part II.
Ashley got off work at 11:00 pm. She called Sam to tell him she was going to work on her feature story for about an hour and then she would be directly home.
Ashley was fascinated at how a murderer and serial killer came to their reality and how they chose their victims. Little did she know she would experience first-hand the wrath of a serial killer?
When Ashley concluded her work, she cleaned up her desk and proceeded to bid the night crew good night and walked out of the news room.
Walking to her car Ashley felt like she was being watched. She immediately shrugged it off as the last hour and half doing research on murder and serial killers. Then someone approached her from behind and put a rag over her nose and mouth which had been saturated with chloroform. In a moments time Ashley was out cold and being placed in her assailant’s car.
Around 2:30 am Sam called the news room inquiring if Ashley had left. He was horrified when they said she had left over an hour ago.
Sam raced to his cycle and drove to the news station with all sorts of wild thoughts going through his mind. When he got there, he noticed Ashley’s car still in her parking spot. Sam ran to the news door and began pounding on the news room door.
Once inside, inquiries were made and Sam immediately called the police. “This is Detective Sam Collins, badge number 48028 I need immediate assistance at KCLA news my wife the co-anchor for the 11:00 pm news has been abducted.”
CHAPTER TEN
The evening News Director, Mr. Adams, could relate to Sam’s fear and concern. He immediately put a special report on air regarding the abduction of Ashley Collins the 11:00 pm co-anchor from the parking lot of the news station.
Sam knew the first 24 to 48 hours were critical in locating Ashley, after that it generally meant body recovery. Sam refused to give any thought to that as a possibility.
He pulled the news director aside and asked him, “Do you think this has anything to do with those unsettling letters Ashley was getting?”
Mr. Adams was completely shocked at what Sam was telling him and told Sam he didn’t know what Sam was talking about! ”Ashley didn’t talk to you about it?” Mr. Adam’s seemed confused and said emphatically, “NO!”
Sam ran over to Ashley’s desk and began going through all the drawers in the desk in search of the letters. When he found the group of bundled letters he handed them over to Mr. Adams to read.
Mr. Adams was mortified and said he never knew about the letters. He then handed the letters over to Detective Thompson to help in the investigation.
Sam was Ashley’s husband and; therefore, could not play an active role in the investigation.
Sam was beside himself with worry and frustration but he knew for little Sophia’s sake, he had to remain calm.
When Sam returned home, Sam immediately telephoned his parents and told them what had happened. They said they were going to catch the next flight out of Illinois to LAX. Sam asked if they could go over to Ashley’s parents to support them. He was calling the Coopers next!
Mr. Cooper answered the phone he could hear in Sam’s voice this was not a social call.
“Mr. Cooper its Sam. My mom & dad are on their way over to your house right now. My dad will explain everything when he comes over. It’s not good, but I wanted them with you and Mrs. Cooper. Both families need to come to Los Angeles right away.” Just then Sam heard his parents in the background.
“I told my dad everything. I need to go right now. I love you both very much and will see you soon.”
Mr. Cooper knew something was extremely wrong because Sam rarely expressed emotion to them.
Sam’s next call was to Sophia in New York. All he said was, “Sophia, little Sophia, Ashley and I need you here in Los Angeles. Please come as soon as you can! Ashley’s been abducted!”
In the mean time, Mr. Collins came in and asked all three to sit down. Mr. Collins began by apologizing but Sam was insistent the families were together and to reassure them that he was doing everything to work the case on his own time. Then he proceeded to explain the events that occurred at the news station and the actions that occurred leading up to the abduction.
A lot of crying ensued followed by the reality that Sam, Ashley and little Sophia needed their help. Mr. Cooper made reservations for all four of them to catch the next flight out to LAX International in Los Angeles.
Sam picked up both families at LAX. He assured Mr. And Mrs. Cooper everything possible was being done by LAPD, KCLA and he was following up leads on his own. They drove directly to the LAPD to get an update on any progress.
The profile the LAPD gave them was the assailant was targeting women and men in high-powered positions. The assumed motive was to exhibit their vulnerability to him and his need to control the situation and them. The profilers said they believed this was the same serial killer they had been looking for a couple of years.
Everyone had arrived in Los Angeles and were staying at a hotel near Sam’s apartment right off I-405. Sam got three rooms with kitchenettes in them. Sam wanted to be prepared just in case a long stay was necessary so he put them all up at the Royale Palace Westwood.
Sam didn’t tell little Sophia about her mom, but he felt that having both grandparents and Sophia there would arouse her curiosity and suspicion. He felt all six of them should sit down and tell her.
In the interim, Sam had taken a couple weeks off work to do his own work on the case. He was an excellent homicide detective and he was not going to sit around waiting while the other homicide detectives worked on the case. Sam was hell-bent on finding Ashley.
He was following up on every clue he was able to get from his confidential informants.
His parents and in-laws were also confident in his detective abilities and were certain he would find Ashley.
In the meantime, Sophia was entertaining little Sophia. They all agreed to keep this from little Sophia for the time being telling her that mommy had to go out of town on an assignment for KCLA and that’s why Sophia came to help daddy.
The grandparents stayed at the hotel and did not go to Sam and Ashley’s apartment.
Sam worked fervently around the clock trying to find his beloved Ashley. He was angry with himself for not following through with the news director on the letters. He never, ever second-guessed Ashley. They were so in tune with one another and had the utmost respect for each other’s thoughts and feelings.
The following morning Sam received a call on his cell phone from a C.I. that sounded worth investigating right away. Sam met the C.I. at a coffee shop in Westwood.
The C.I., Jim, had heard from a junkie some guy was bragging he raped, tortured and killed some bitch and left her body in an abandoned barn near an empty field off a dirt road.
Sam could feel a wave of fear, anxiety and emotional pain sweep over his body. He immediately set out to the county planning department to look at topographic maps to look at detailed ground relief, landforms, terrain, and other man-made features that could possibly lead Sam to the location of said barn.
CHAPTER ELEVAN
Sam located an old deserted barn sitting in the middle of 160 acres with dirt roads on the property in Ventura County. Ventura was not far from Los Angeles, about 60 miles north of Los Angeles.
Without hesitation he drove about 1–1/2 hours to Ventura and headed towards Ventura planning department looking up the exact location of the land and barn.
Once he located the land, he froze momentarily at the thought of finding Ashley. It was roughly 30 minutes to the property line. When he arrived, Sam sat looking at the run down barn afraid of what he might find. He finally opened the car door and got out heading toward the dilapidated barn door.
Sam opened the creaking barn door and walked inside. The inside of the barn wreaked of blood and rotting flesh. Suddenly, he found himself running toward the back of the barn and dropping to his knees in disbelief. It was his beloved Ashley naked, saturated in her own blood with ligature marks on her wrists and ankles, her porcelain, creamy-white complexion severely bruised, her noise broken, her hands showed signs of a struggle and fight. It was clear Ashley had been brutally beaten, sexually assaulted and tortured before she was killed.
Sam knew enough not to disturb the crime scene. It was everything he could do not to cover her naked body, not to grab Ashley and hold her one last time. He just sat there staring at Ashley and remembering their lives together, numb at what his eyes just witnessed.
After about thirty minutes, Sam called the Ventura Police Department, “This is Detective Sam Collins badge number 48028, and I am at the crime scene of Ashley Collins my wife. I was following a lead from a confidential informant that led me here to Ventura. I am a detective with the LAPD. My location is about 15 miles north of the Department. Send the Coroner’s van.”
Sam watched as the coroner put Ashley in the van. Stunned and emotionally broken, Sam decided to keep the gruesome details from his parents and in-laws.
The forensic pathologist determined Ashley Collins death was obviously a homicide. The evidence collected from the body determined she was approximately eight weeks pregnant with a baby boy.
When the Ventura pathologist gave Sam his preliminary findings, Sam was beside himself with grief and heartache. His thoughts immediately returned to the romantic evening at the Hilgard House in Westwood and the conversation he and Ashley had …, “We’re going to have a boy this time.” Ashley said with a smile on her face, “Sam we’re not even pregnant.” “We will be after tonight!”
Horrified by the information he just received, he fell back on the bench frozen his wife and son had been murdered. He just sat there a broken man angry and blaming himself for not following through on the letters that Ashley had been receiving at KCLA.
After some time had passed, Sam knew what he had to do next … tell his parents and in-laws. He gathered his thoughts, drove back to Los Angeles, and mustered enough courage to face the inevitable.
His face was drawn when he addressed his parents and in-laws. He gave them the facts absent the gruesome details and the fact that Ashley was pregnant with a baby boy. Sam felt there was no need to include those details in an already emotional, disturbing account that Ashley had been murdered.
In the meantime, Sophia had taken little Sophia to Disneyland returning to the apartment to find Sam, Mr. and Mrs. Collins and Mr. and Mrs. Cooper there. The mood was not what Sophia hoped for she could read the silence in the room. She immediately took little Sophia to her room, reading her a bedtime story telling her that it was late and she could visit with her grandparents in the morning. All the while dying inside at the thought of what she would hear about Ashley.
When Sophia returned to the living room the mood was somber Mrs. Cooper and Mrs. Collins were crying. Sam, Mr. Cooper and Mr. Collins were in shock and grief stricken.
Sam chose to have a closed casket funeral telling his in-laws that he wanted everyone who attended the funeral to remember Ashley as a beautiful, vibrant and smart woman. He placed a striking picture of Ashley next to the casket. His real reason for a closed casket funeral was to spare the Coopers the reality of Ashley’s ghastly, macabre death.
After the funeral, Sam spoke to his parents and in-laws about little Sophia accompanying them back to Galena, Illinois for a time while he concentrated on finding Ashley’s assailant and focused on healing emotionally and spiritually.
A few days later, Sam spoke to little Sophia about going to stay at her grandparents for awhile in Galena. Sam shared a lot of fun stories of how he and Ashley met, growing up together, and falling in love. He talked about the town and how there wasn’t a place in Galena that didn’t hold a special memory of her mother.
Once at LAX airport Sam reassured little Sophia how much he loved her and this was only a temporary situation. Once they were off to Galena, Sam walked Sophia to her gate and thanked her for all of her help and for stepping in and taking care of little Sophia. He told Sophia that he felt emotionally broken and it would be awhile before he would see her again but he would keep her posted on his progress and little Sophia.
Sam returned to the apartment feeling emotionally spent and exhausted. The 6’4”, 240 pound shattered detective walked over to the canter of Bourbon and poured a drink. He plopped down in his favorite chair and assessed the reality of his situation.
He sat for awhile pondering his life without Ashley. Sam always had a plan from a young age. It was in his nature to move forward. Unfortunately, he was emotionally paralyzed and unable to make sound decisions.
In the following days that soon turned into weeks, he still was unable to feel any emotions except extreme anger. He made an appointment with his general practitioner who stated he believed he was suffering from existential neurosis or existential crisis, which he was basically questioning his very foundation of his existence. What purpose or value could he add to his life if he couldn’t even help his wife? He found himself pondering that thought over and over again in the weeks that passed!
Sam decided if he couldn’t find and help his wife from an untimely death who could he help? He made it his mission to become the best homicide detective on the West coast, concentrating his efforts on finding the Serial Killer that took his beloved Ashley.
He had a plan but before he could implement it, he had to talk to his parents and in-laws, Mr. and Mrs. Cooper.
Sam telephoned his parents and asked how little Sophia was doing. He then asked how they were doing with little Sophia there? Sam said, “I have been busy following different leads into the serial killer that killed Ashley. I joined a special team of homicide detectives that work out of the cold case homicide unit“.
Mr. Collins was afraid Sam was spending far too much time on Ashley’s murder that had happened just over one year ago. His concern was Sam emotionally couldn’t get over his wife’s death. He had a daughter that needed his attention too. Mr. Collin’s expressed his concerns stating, “Sam you need to let go! Little Sophia needs you too. How long are you going to put your life on hold to catch this maniac”?
“Dad, as long as it takes! He didn’t just kill Ashley he murdered my wife and son! Mom and the Coopers do not need to know this information. There is absolutely no reason to upset them further. This must stay between you and me. How many other families will be destroyed by this maniac? I love my daughter so much, but every time I look at her, I see Ashley. I need for me and little Sophia’s sake to find this killer and put him behind bars. He took little Sophia’s mother and brother he took my wife and son. I won’t rest until I have fulfilled my promise to Ashley, Mr. and Mrs. Cooper and myself.”
“I understand son, Mr. Collins said. We’re here for you as long as you need us. Little Sophia will be fine. She likes it here and is doing well in school. Let me get her for you! Hold on. Sophia your dad’s on the phone!”
“Daddy….”
Sam’s conversation with little Sophia was lengthy assuring her how much he loved and missed her and that he was getting closer to finding the person that took her mommy away. He asked her about school and if she liked Galena? He asked her about various places she had visited in Galena.
Sam shared with little Sophia places he and her mommy went in Galena. He asked her if she had visited Horseshoe Mound. It was at that moment Sam realized revisiting places that Sam and Ashley visited together was painful emotionally. Sam knew he could never live in Galena, Illinois again.
He was troubled that just thinking about their youth together could cause so much emotional pain one year after Ashley’s death, but he also knew this was a great town for their daughter to experience. Sophia and Sam could share topics of places and experiences they both had in Galena both as father and daughter and as mommy and daddy.
Sam concluded the conversation with Sophia about 1–1/2 hours later assuring her he would call sooner and more often. Sam asked Sophia to get Grandma Collins, “Mom, I just wanted to tell you how much I love you and dad, how much I appreciate all of yours and the Coopers help with Sophia. Is the money I send enough? I will be there as soon as I can. I don’t want to be away from Sophia longer than I have to be! I must find Ashley’s killer.”
Sam had become the most decorated homicide detective on the west coast. He was driven by Ashley’s murder and vowed he would not let any other family experience the emotional pain he and his daughter suffered with Ashley’s murder.
Having said that, Sam was relentless in his investigative work at the crime scene; interviewing witnesses, canvassing the crime scene for evidence, finding and reviewing surveillance video, he left no stone un-turned.
Sam became addicted to the feeling of locating a suspect, putting the case together, solving the case, having the murderer prosecuted, a guilty verdict and closure for the family. Unfortunately, at this time Sam had not been successful at finding Ashley’s assailant and murderer, but he knew it would be solved eventually.
Later that year, in the spring, Sam was called out to another crime scene where both the victim had been shot by the perpetrator and the perpetrator had been shot by the police.
At the bloody crime scene, Sam was walking the scene to locate evidence. Sam could not believe his eyes, he saw in the distance a familiar, friendly smile that he hadn’t seen in over a year.
For an instant Sam felt he was losing his mind. He looked away for a split second the woman standing there was gone. Sam hurriedly walked over to where she had been standing and asked his fellow officers if anyone had seen the woman that was standing there? He gave a brief description of what she looked like … but all of the individuals at the crime scene said no!
At that moment Sam looked down and saw something shiny by his right foot. He leaned over to pick it up and was not only astounded at his finding he was also in total disbelief. It was the pear shaped sapphire pendant that Sam gave Ashley on her 16th birthday. He remembered when Ashley said, every cell in my body can feel every cell in your body. Neither time nor space will ever come between our love.
Sam smiled and he knew this was Ashley’s murderer. Ashley was telling Sam it was over. He put the necklace in his pant pocket and he knew it was time to rejoin his daughter Sophia.
Sam went back to the station confidant Ashley’s murderer was dead. There would not be anything further to do on this case. At that time he typed up his resignation effective immediately and submitted to his Captain. The Captain always knew Sam’s motivation came from his wife’s murder and that he would rejoin his daughter when the time was right.
Captain Anderson thanked Sam for his service to the LAPD and wished him the best of luck in his future endeavors and he would be truly missed!
With that Sam left the LAPD with nothing in hand. He walked out the front doors reaching into his pocket for a look at the pendant. He smiled, took a deep breath and got on his motorcycle heading for his apartment.
He spoke to the apartment superintendent and said, “I have concluded my work here in Los Angeles and am going to vacate the apartment today. I came here to get a couple pairs of jeans, shirts and toiletries for my trip back to Galena, Illinois. Do whatever you want with the remaining contents in the apartment. I won’t be coming back!”
With that Sam headed upstairs and changed into a t-shirt and jeans, grabbed another pair of jeans, a couple more T-shirts and toiletries looked over the apartment
remembering happier times with Ashley, little Sophia and himself. He slowly closed the door behind him realizing this was the beginning of a new life for him and little Sophia. He got on his motorcycle, looked up at the apartment, kick started the bike and headed to the I-10 on-ramp heading towards Galina, Illinois! Heading toward little Sophia.
CHAPTER TWELVE
It was approximately 1,800 miles from Los Angeles to Galena, Illinois. Sam didn’t relish the thought of driving 27 hours on his Harley, but he was anxious to see little Sophia.
Sam planned to stay over-night in Colorado and beginning his final destination, approximately 13 hours to Galena, fresh and ready to face the next 13-hours until he was with little Sophia.
Once in Keenesburg, Colorado, Sam chose to stay at the Keene Motel. It was small and clean and just off Interstate 76. After settling in he asked the reservation clerk if she knew a good place to have dinner. The clerk recommended the Korner Kitchen.
He grabbed a bite to eat at the Korner Kitchen. After eating he headed back over to the motel. Sam was emotionally drained after finding out that Ashley’s murderer had been shot and killed by LAPD and physically spent after travelling 13 hours on his Harley.
He jumped into a steaming hot shower, letting the water caress his chiseled body. He stood there for the longest time reminiscing about the last time Ashley shared a shower with him. He was lost in his thoughts for what seemed like an eternity. He was suddenly shocked out of his hypnotic state when a horn was blaring outside his motel room. Sam got out of the shower, dried himself off and turned the TV on and then he called Sophia in New York.
“Sophia this is Sam, my quest is over! The Serial Killer that killed Ashley and tortured, maimed, and killed others was shot and killed by the LAPD yesterday. I’m halfway to Galena right now to get little Sophia.”
Sam expressed because of all the memories that he and Ashley shared in Galena he could not possibly live there permanently. He asked Sophia what the job opportunities were like in New York. How were the schools? Can he depend on her to help him with little Sophia.
Sophia said, “Whatever you need Sam. I’ll also help with little Sophia, I’ll check into job opportunities and schools. As a matter of fact, there is an opening here at the law firm if you’re interested. Do you want to go back into law enforcement? I realize this is going to be a difficult transition for you so whatever you or little Sophia may need, I’m just a phone call away.”
With that Sam concluded his conversation with Sophia feeling confident that everything would work out. He lay back in bed, thinking about Ashley and little Sophia finally drifting off to sleep.
Sam awoke very early the next morning around 5:00 am, dressed hopped on his Harley and headed back to the Korner Kitchen for coffee and breakfast. The restaurant was quiet with few patrons at that hour.
Sam ordered bacon and eggs and told the waitress to keep the coffee coming he had a very long trip ahead of him. While waiting for his breakfast, Sam read the local paper.
After breakfast, he headed to a Shell station he saw near I-76 to gas up. He also called his parents to tell them he was halfway home and not to tell little Sophia because he wanted to surprise her. Once the bike was filled-up he entered I-76 for another grueling 13 hours on the bike. His only thought was seeing and holding his daughter.
It had been nearly two years since Sam held his daughter. He felt bad, but he knew he would not rest until Ashley’s killer was apprehended or, in this case, killed. The ride to Galena was long, lonely and cathartic. Thirteen hours of reliving memories with Ashley: kids growing up, law school, marriage, UCLA, the birth of their daughter, working as a reporter, and her death. He needed to let all of this go before he reached little Sophia.
Sam recognized many of the exits and knew he was close to Illinois and only a couple of hours before he was home. Tired and physically drained he pulled off the interstate to get a cup of coffee and relax from a ten hour non-stop drive on the bike. After about a half hour, Sam gassed up and resumed his last couple of hours to Galena, Illinois … to his daughter, Sophia.
Sam drove up into the driveway, little Sophia came running out of the house, yelling “Daddy, daddy.”
Sam got off the bike picked little Sophia up and swung her around ending in a huge bear-hug. “I’ve missed you so much, baby!” Sophia immediately corrected him by saying, “I’m not a baby anymore I’ve grown up since you’ve been gone.” Sam said, “No you’re not a baby and I promise I’ll never leave you again.”
Sam’s mother and father followed Sophia out the door. Sam gave his mother a great big hug and shook his father’s hand and embraced him. “Thank you for giving me the time I needed to finish my business in Los Angeles. Thank you for taking care of my beautiful daughter, Sophia.”
Just then the Coopers came over to the Collin’s house. Instinctively, the Coopers knew Sam would not have returned to Galena until he finished what he set out to do…find Ashley’s killer.
Sam embraced his in-laws and whispered in Mr. Collins ear, “It’s done.” They all went into the Collins’ house to visit and catch up on the past two years of the Collins, Coopers and Sophia’s lives.
In the meantime, Sophia was busy in New York finding an apartment within walking distance from her law firm and not far from her apartment. Once she located an apartment she looked for a school for little Sophia.
Sam knew when he returned to Galena, it would be time to face the future without Ashley. He returned to Galena to talk with his parents and in-laws.
He spoke candidly with both parents about picking up the emotional pieces from Ashley’s murder and his desire to move to New York because Galena had far too many memories for him to live there. He told them that Sophia had agreed to help him get settled in New York, find a school for little Sophia. That she would be available to help with little Sophia if Sam needed assistance. Sophia agreed to help Sam with his daughter. This was certainly a road that Sam was totally unfamiliar with as a single parent.
Sophia drove from New York to Galena, Illinois to help Sam and little Sophia relocate to New York. After their goodbyes to his parents and in-laws, little Sophia jumped in Sophia’s car and Sam followed them on his Harley; they were in route to New York.
Sam was certain that being a homicide detective in New York would require late hours and some travel. Sophia agreed that little Sophia could stay with her until Sam got off work and if travel was involved, little Sophia would stay with her.
Sam realized how incredibly helpful Sophia was to both him and little Sophia as well as when Ashley was in the motorcycle accident in St. George, the birth of Sophia, and Ashley’s death. She truly was a good friend to Sam, Ashley and little Sophia.
The months passed and soon Sam noticed it was coming up to one year that the inner anger he had been carrying around since Ashley’s murder was beginning to subside.
There were days that Sam actually felt a sense of life and happiness. He wasn’t just going through the motions of life any longer. He loved his daughter so much and could not believe how much she resembled her mother.
Little Sophia was approaching her 8th birthday and Sam cringed at the thought of having to tell her about the reality of her mother’s death. Sam was just beginning to feel again. He also knew that day was fast-approaching and it was inevitable. Sam and Sophia had talked about this on many occasions and agreed that Sophia would be a part of that conversation.
The good news was that he could share with his daughter how he met her mother, growing up in Galena with her mom, and falling in love with her. He could share how he met Sophia in law school, how her mom and Sophia became dear, dear friends, how Sophia became Ashley’s Maid of Honor and how she happened to be named Sophia.
Sam had settled into the day-to-day life in New York City with little Sophia. They both were developing new friends and establishing a solid life. Little Sophia loved her school, her new friends and she definitely was thriving.
Sam was the best looking, best dressed and very accomplished homicide detective in New York. He was an extremely effective detective. He was particularly driven by Ashley’s murder. New York was an opportunity for Sam to continue his work as an effective homicide detective on the east coast.
Sam had solved a number of cases and felt that he was able to bring something positive to the surviving victims of a homicide …, closure! He worked every case as if it were Ashley’s murder. He felt and could relate to the families emotional pain. Every homicide case Sam worked he did it to honor the love of his life, Ashley.
After working homicides for a couple of years in New York, making new friends, attending functions at little Sophia’s school, Sam felt good about life again. The colors in everyday living seemed brighter.
Sam had pondered emotionally something he had experienced on more than one occasion but chose to try and work through it himself.
One afternoon Sam and Sophia were taking little Sophia to swim practice where she swam on the Minnows’ swim team. They were sitting on the bleachers watching little Sophia swim the free style stroke when Sam looked over at Sophia and, once-again, felt a wave of intense feelings for Sophia. Sophia was yelling, whistling, and cheering little Sophia on in the Minnows’ swim meet and she put her hand on Sam’s upper thigh in excitement. Sam experienced physical feelings that he had not experienced and had been non-existent since Ashley died.
Those feelings scared Sam. Sophia looked at Sam and said, “Are you ok. You look like you’ve just seen a ghost?”
“Sophia I need to talk to you about something. Can we talk now?”
“This sounds serious, Sam, what’s up?”
Sam, Ashley and Sophia had been friends for so long, little was said or done that would embarrass them. Sam and Sophia both were on the Crimson swim teams at Harvard and both wore Speedo competing swim suits.
Sam moved little Sophia’s cloths from his lap and said, “That’s Up!”
“I thought those days ended with Ashley, you have proven me wrong.”
“Sophia, it has been 4 years since Ash was murdered. I have been to hell and back over her death. It’s time for me to move forward. Ash would want that for me and little Sophia. I need to move forward with a woman I can trust, a woman that can appreciate where both Sophia and I have been emotionally and psychologically. You know me better than anyone and have been there for my family: Ash and me, as well as little Sophia. Over the past 15 years I have leaned on you more than any one person has a right to. The past four years I don’t know what I would have done without your support. The past two years, I have grown to love you differently. As you can see, what’s up is up! If you’re not too uncomfortable with this thought, I would like to date you?”
Sam knew that Ashley had taught him the meaning of life and love. Sophia had taught him the meaning of faith. Sam finally understood why Ashley and Sophia had so much in common it was the strength and bonding of their faith.
Sophia was completely taken by surprise.
Sophia remembered a conversation she had with Ashley on a trip to New York to look for her wedding gown and she thought to herself’ “It was refreshing to hear a man profess that type of love for a woman. I felt a surge of jealousy that I might find a man to love me like that.”
Sophia was shocked by his disclosure. She said, “Every time you look at me Sam, you’ll see Ashley. Can you get beyond that?”
Sam laughed, “you’re 5’9”, dark hair, dark eyes and have an olive complexion. Ash was 5’5”, blond hair, sky blue eyes and had porcelain white skin. I don’t think when I look at you I’ll see Ash. Yes, both of you had the same thoughts on life and love, but that’s a good thing! Ash loved you and thought of you as a big sister she never had. Ash loved you so much we named our baby after you. I see only positive events happening. We’ll take it slow and see what develops.”
Sophia recalled what she said to Ashley when they were coming back from New York after finding the perfect wedding dress for Ashley. Ashley wanted to know how Sophia and Sam met. “When Sam first came to Harvard we had two law classes and we both swam on the Crimson swim team. He didn’t hang out with anyone, so I asked him one day if he wanted to go have pizza for lunch after the swim meet.”
She also recalled she had an ulterior motive, to see if Sam was available to pursue. Sophia very soon realized he was not! After Sophia meant Ashley, she could clearly see why Sam was so in love with her and respected the relationship. Sam and Sophia dated for a little over one year when Sam decided to pop the proverbial question. First, he needed to ask little Sophia how she felt about having a new mommy, Aunt Sophia? Little Sophia said, “I’ve know Aunt Sophia all my life…I love her and would love to call her mommy!”
Ashley grew up in a small town without much money. Her ideas were simplistic, thoughts of marriage and children were built on a solid foundation and she never wavered in her beliefs.
Sophia came from money, she had always lived in a metropolitan city; yet she and Ashley hit it off instantly
Sam picked out Sophia’s ring himself; a 1 carat raised solitary Sapphire marquise with 3 Sapphire begets on each side of Sapphire solitaire and 10 smaller diamonds on the outside of the begets set in 14k white gold setting
Sam saw the ring and thought it was stunning. He didn’t have to look any further. That was the ring he wanted for Sophia!
EPILOGUE
It was a beautiful October day. The leaves were a brilliant red and orange depicting the changing of the season from fall to winter.
The bride wore a fitted Bateau asymmetrical gown with an embroidered appliqué. Her 5’9” frame carried the dress beautifully, accenting her height and her assets. The veil was made from cathedral lace; a one-tiered Princess Sheath veil that was 220.4 inches in length and complemented her gown perfectly.
The groom was wearing a Black Satin Notch Yves Saint Laurent tuxedo that fit his 6”4’ frame physic impeccably.
As the two emerged from the Manhattan Temple in New York, Sam noticed a familiar face in the crowd smiling with two thumbs up. Sam smiled and recalled Ashley saying, “Neither time nor space will ever come between our love.”
He glanced over at Sophia, the look on her face told Sam that she saw Ashley too. The Officiator just then announced, “May I introduce for the first time Mr. and Mrs. Sam Collins and their daughter Sophia.”
####
