This is a SND story. It has been eight months since the events with Gabriel occurred. Vincent and Diana have recovered Jacob. He is now living below in the tunnels with Vincent. But shortly before Christmas Peter brings a very special present to the tunnels. This will truly be a Christmas that Vincent will never forget.

Catherine sat on her bed in the sanitarium that she had called home for the last eight months. She had been brought there while in a coma. Then four months later she had woken up. What followed was four more months of strenuous and painful physical therapy. Now she had to deal with the fact that she was confined to this sterile environment. It was truly painful for her because it reminded her so much of the room that Gabriel had held her in before she had given birth to her and Vincent's son. She often found herself wondering over these last months what had become of her son. She feared that he was still with Gabriel. She only hoped that Vincent had understood what she had told him on that rooftop before everything went black. She prayed that Vincent was all right and that he was searching for their son. She was relieved that she had come through the whole ordeal alive. But now she wondered why no one that she cared about visited her. She had been told by one of the heads of the FBI that they had been contacted.

She was lost in thought when the door to her room slowly opened. She looked up and saw the smiling face of her new personal agent. He had taken over her protection when the other agent had been arrested for trying to kill her while she was in the coma. She had found out later that an associate of Gabriel paid him off. She smiled and nodded at the man entering the room. "Hello Cathy." Agent Charles Wright told her as he sat down in the chair beside the bed. "Hi Chuck." She responded quietly. "So how are we doing today?" he asked. She rose from the bed and walked over to the window. She peered out for a moment then turned and looked at him again. "Not so good." She admitted. "Cathy what is it?" Charles asked her knowing already what her answer would be. "Chuck do you know why no one that I know have come to see me?" She asked hopefully. Chuck rose and walked toward her. He gently took her arm and led her toward the bed. "Cathy please sit down I think you should know the truth." He commented. She sat down and looked at him confused. "The truth about what?" She asked. "Cathy the reason that no one that you know has contacted you is because they still believe that you are dead." He told her. Catherine looked up at him with a very distressed look on her face. "Why would they still think that because I was told that they were contacted?" She asked. "Cathy the agent that tried to kill you told us that he contacted your friends." He told her. "But he lied to all of us." He added.

Catherine could not believe what she was hearing. She stood up suddenly and glared at her friend. "So the people I love have been going through hell all this time!" She screamed at him. Chuck could do nothing but nod his head. "Chuck how could you go along with this I thought you were my friend." Charles looked up at her guiltily. "Cathy we are friends." He told her. "And I was not able to do anything about it because I was not the agent in charge of your case." He told her. Catherine shook her head. She did not want to hear anymore. "Chuck please leave!" She requested angrily. "Cathy we need to talk about this." He commented. She shook her head. "No I need to be alone right now." She told him. Chuck rose from the bed and walked toward the door. He looked back as he opened the door. He then noticed that she was lying on the bed crying. In that moment he decided that her suffering had to end.

As soon as Chuck left the room he walked back to his office. Once he was there he picked up the telephone. "Connie could you please get me Dr. Peter Alcott in New York?" he requested. "Yes sir right away." Came her response. Then he sat down and began thinking about how he was going to tell Peter that Catherine was in fact alive.

A few seconds later the secretary buzzed in again. "Sir I have Dr. Alcott on line one." She told him. "Thank you Connie why don't you take off early today." He suggested. Then he picked up the telephone and punched line one. "Peter I am not sure that you will remember me this is Charles Wright." He began. "Charles Wright?" Peter asked. Then Peter gasped. "Are you Paul's son?" he asked. Charles smiled at this question. "Yes Peter how are you?" Chuck asked. "I am fine Chuck how can I assist you?" Peter asked. Chuck took a deep breath. He knew that this was not going to be easy. "Peter do you know a woman named Catherine Chandler?" He asked. There was silence on the other end of the phone. "Yes I knew her but she is dead." Peter stated sadly. Chuck took a deep breath then spoke again. "No Peter she is not dead she is in a hospital here in Washington D.C. she has been very ill from the effects of the morphine injection that Gabriel ordered given to her." Chuck commented.

When Chuck was done speaking he sat there waiting for Peter's response. "Charles are you sure that this woman is Cathy?" Peter asked hopefully. "Yes Peter I knew it was her when she woke from the coma." He told Peter. "How did you know?" Peter asked tentatively. "Because the first name that she spoke was Vincent." Chuck commented. There was silence for a few moments. "Oh God it is Cathy!" Peter exclaimed happily. "Yes and I want to get her back to New York and back to Vincent before Christmas." Chuck told him. "Yes of course I will be on the next flight out tonight." Peter told him happily. "All right but Peter it might be a good idea to bring someone from the tunnels with you." Chuck commented. Peter thought for a moment then spoke again. "Yes I agree I will bring Father with me." Peter told him. "We'll arrive sometime late tonight." Peter commented. "All right I will stay here at the hospital so that you can see her as soon as you arrive." Then they said goodbye and hung up the telephone.

An hour later Peter walked into Father's chamber. There he found him talking to Devin. "Peter what a surprise." Father commented. "How are you Peter?" Devin asked. "I am absolutely wonderful." Peter told him. Devin and Father looked at one another confused by his statement. "Jacob I heard from Charles Wright today." Peter commented. "How is Chuck?" Devin asked. "He is fine he is now an FBI agent in Washington." Peter remarked.

Then Peter turned toward Father. "Jacob he called me to tell me that Cathy is alive." Peter blurted out suddenly. "Alive how is that possible?" Father asked. "I am not sure but I am sure that it is her." Peter told him. "Peter how can you be so sure?" Devin asked. Peter looked at the younger man and smiled. "He said that when she awoke from the coma that she was in that she asked for Vincent." Peter told him.

As soon as he heard this he jumped up from his chair. "It has to be Cathy!" he cried happily. Father smiled and nodded. "Yes if I had not heard that she asked for Vincent I would have not believed it." Father commented. Then Devin turned and ran up the steps toward the entrance of the chamber. "I have to tell Vincent about this." He commented happily. "No Devin!" Peter told him suddenly. Devin and Father both turned and looked at him. "Why ever not Peter?" Father asked confused. "I want to get her home first so that he can see her for himself." Peter told them. Devin turned and walked back down the steps. "You are right Peter." He commented as he sat down again. " Jacob I was hoping that you would accompany me to Washington tonight." Peter commented. "Of course I will." Father commented as he rose. "Hey you are not going without me!" Devin told them adamantly. "All right we will leave in a couple of hours Charles will be waiting for us at the hospital." Then Peter rose and left the chamber to go home and pack.

Once he was gone Devin turned and spoke to Father. "Dad I am going to pack." Devin told him. Father smiled and nodded. "Yes so am I." he commented. "Then I have to go and tell Vincent that we will be leaving." Father continued. "Dad what are you going to tell him?" Devin asked. Father smiled and shrugged. "I am not sure but I will think of something." He commented. Then Devin left the chamber. Father turned and walked into his bedchamber.

A few minutes later Father approached Vincent's chamber. He stopped just inside the entrance of the chamber. He smiled and listened lovingly when he heard Vincent's voice as he was speaking to eight-month-old Jacob. "I want you to have the most wonderful Christmas." He told the child as he looked down into his beautiful face. "I can never make up for the loss of your mother but you will always know how much she loved the two of us." Vincent told him. "She sacrificed everything that she knew to protect me and our world." He commented. "Then she sacrificed her own life to keep you safe." Father smiled as he thought of the joyous reunion that awaited these two precious beings that he loved so much.

Father was brought out of his revelry when he heard Vincent's voice again. "Father are you all right?" Vincent asked looking concerned. "What oh yes Vincent I am just fine." Father commented. Then Father walked toward Vincent's chair. Vincent noticed that he wore the suit that he wore when he was going above. "Vincent I need to speak to you about something." Father commented. Vincent nodded then rose and gently placed Jacob in his cradle. "Yes Father what is it?" Vincent asked as he sat back down. "Vincent I have to take a trip." Father commented. "Where are you going?" Vincent asked. "Devin and I are going to Washington D.C. with Peter." Father told him. "Why are you going?" Vincent asked. "We are needed by a former helper. She is in the hospital there." Father told him. "Do I know her?" Vincent asked. Father shook his head. "No you do not." Father told him. He absolutely hated lying to Vincent but he knew that he had to for now. "Will the two of you return in time for the Christmas party?" Vincent asked. "Yes I am sure that we will be back in plenty of time." Father commented. Then Father rose from his chair. "Well we have to be off now Peter will be waiting for us." Vincent rose and embraced his parent. "Please be careful all of you." Vincent requested. Father smiled and put his hand on Vincent's cheek. "We will my son." Then Father left the chamber.

Back at the hospital in Washington Chuck entered Catherine's room once again. There he found her staring out of the window. "Cathy may I come in?" he asked quietly. She turned around and nodded. "Of course you can Chuck." She told him. He entered the room then closed the door behind him. "Cathy I am so sorry about earlier." He told her as he came and stood beside her. Catherine shook her head. "No Chuck I am the one who is sorry what was done to me was wrong but it was not your fault." She told him.

Then Chuck took her hand and led her toward the bed. "Cathy please sit down." He requested. She looked up at him unsure of what was going on. "Cathy I have some wonderful news for you." He told her as he sat down beside her. "I just got off the phone Peter Alcott." He commented. Catherine looked up at him sharply. "You called him?" She asked hopefully. "Yes I called him and he is coming out here tonight to take you home." He commented. She smiled brightly as her tears began to fall. "When will he be here?" she asked. "He and Father will be here later tonight." He commented. "And they are taking you home to Vincent." He told her again. Catherine looked up at him shocked. Chuck saw this and smiled. "Cathy I grew up in the tunnels with Vincent." He told her. "My father's name was Paul." He continued. Catherine smiled and nodded. "Yes I remember Vincent mentioning you and your father." She commented.

Then chuck rose. "Now eat your dinner and I will be back once they arrive." He then left the room. Catherine smiled and hugged herself tightly as she thought about going home to her beloved Vincent. She sat down at the table in her room and ate.

Three hours later Peter, Devin, and Father entered the hospital lobby. They walked up to the reception desk and spoke to the nurse on duty. "May I help you gentlemen?" She asked. "Yes I am Dr. Peter Alcott I believe that Agent Wright is expecting us." Peter told her. She was about to call Chuck's office when she heard a voice behind the men. "It's all right nurse I was in fact expecting them." The three men turned around to see him smiling at them. "Charles it is wonderful to see you." Father told him as they embraced. "And you look the same as always Father." Chuck looked over and noticed Devin standing there. "Dev is that you?" he asked happily. "Yep now where is our girl?" Devin asked impatiently. Chuck moved back and laughed.

Then he looked at Peter and winked. "Still the same impatient Devin I see." He commented. Father and Peter both laughed. "Yes he is." Peter commented. "Well I have missed my friend." Devin said defensively. "All right I will not keep you any longer please come with me." Chuck told them. "She is waiting for us." He stated as they boarded the elevator." Then they went up to the 24th floor.

Once they reached the floor they left the elevator. "Her room is just down this corridor." Chuck commented as they began to walk. "Chuck how is she?" Devin asked. "She had a rough time of it but after some therapy she is fine." Chuck responded. As they reached her room Chuck softly knocked. The three men smiled when a familiar voice called out. "Come in." Chuck smiled at them then opened the door. They all walked into the room and saw Catherine. "Chandler it really is you!" Devin cried as he quickly crossed the room and enfolded her in his arms. "Devin I cannot believe that you are here." She cried.

Then Catherine saw Father. She moved out of Devin's arms and slowly approached him. "Hello Father." She commented. She was fearful that he would reject her because of what Vincent had been put through. She smiled when Father opened his arms. She sobbed as she stepped into his embrace. "Cathy dear it is wonderful to have you back." He told her. "Cathy honey are you all right?" Peter asked as he watched the scene in front of him. Catherine looked over at him and smiled. Then she walked toward him. Peter smiled and opened his arms. Catherine cried happily as she fell into his arms. "Peter I have missed you!" She cried. He pushed her back slightly and looked at her. "So have I honey." He commented.

After all the hugs were done they all sat down to talk. "Father how is Vincent?" Catherine asked. "Cathy he will be fine once you are back in his arms." Father told her. "And so will that baby of yours." Devin commented. Catherine looked up suddenly. "He has our son?" She asked hopefully. Devin smiled and nodded. "Yes Cathy a policewoman that was working on your disappearance helped him find Jacob." Devin told her. Catherine smiled and looked over at Father. "That is exactly the name I was planning on giving him." She commented. Father smiled and took her hand in his. He lifted it to her lips and gently kissed her. "And I could not be more proud of my Grandson." He told her. "Father I am so sorry that it happened during Vincent's illness." She told him. Father took her hand again and shook his head. "No Cathy never be sorry for proving me wrong." He told her.

Then Chuck rose from his chair. "Well if we are catching a plane to New York we better get going soon." He commented. "You are coming with us?" Catherine asked. Chuck smiled and nodded. "Yes I have not been home in quite a while." Then Catherine rose. She picked up her suitcase and smiled brightly. "I am ready to go." She announced. "When did you pack?" Chuck asked her. She smiled shyly. "After you left earlier." She told him. Then Peter took the suitcase from her. "Well young lady let's get you home." Then they all left the room.

About fifteen minutes later they were all boarding a private Lear jet at the airport. Devin noticed that Catherine had become extremely quiet. He sat down next to her and took her hand in his. "Cathy what is it?" He asked. She looked up at him sadly. "Devin will he hate me for putting everyone through this?" She asked. Father overheard this and walked toward them. He sat down on the opposite side of her. "No Catherine I assure you he will be very thankful that you and he have been given this second chance to have the life together that you always wanted." He commented. Then he smiled at her. "Now young lady I want you to get some sleep." He told her lovingly. She smiled and nodded. Then she put her head down on his shoulder and fell asleep.

While this was happening down in the tunnels under New York everyone was working hard to prepare for the Christmas party that evening. "Vincent when will Father and Devin return?" Pascal asked. Vincent looked up at his friend. "Father told me that they would be returning for the party tonight." Vincent told him. Pascal smiled and nodded. "Where did they go anyway?" Jamie asked as she approached them. "They had to go to Washington D.C." Vincent responded. "Apparently a former helper is in the hospital there." Vincent continued. "Do you know who the helper is?" Pascal asked. Vincent shook his head. "No Father did not tell me." He commented. "Well at least they will not miss Jacob's first Christmas." Jamie commented. Vincent nodded mutely. I just wish that his mother could be here. Vincent thought to himself. A while later they finished the party preparations and left the great hall. Vincent went to his chamber to spend some time with his son.

At Kennedy airport the private plane that carried Catherine and the others landed. "Cathy we are in New York." Devin told her as he rose from his seat. Catherine quickly rose and smiled brightly. "Oh God I truly missed this city!" She exclaimed excitedly. Then they prepared to disembark. Father smiled as he approached her again. "May I?" He asked as he extended his arm to Catherine. She smiled and giggled happily. "Yes you may." She told him as she took his arm. Then they left the plane.

Once they were all inside the limousine that Peter had rented he turned toward the driver. "Please take us to 455 Park Avenue." Catherine suddenly looked up at him. "Peter why are we going to your house?" She asked confused. "Well honey I thought that you would like to freshen up before you see Vincent tonight at the Christmas party." Peter commented. Then Catherine looked at Father. "There is a Christmas party tonight?" She asked. Father smiled and nodded. "Yes we decided to give the children a treat." He told her. She smiled and nodded.

When they arrived at Peter's house everyone entered the house. Father waited until the limousine driver was gone then he turned to Peter and Catherine. "Devin and I are going to go on below now." He commented. "I have a Christmas gift to prepare." He stated. "Dad what gift is that?" Devin asked. "Well let's just say that it will tell Vincent about his very special gift." He stated as he smiled at Catherine. She realized what he meant and smiled back at him. "All right Jacob we will come below around six." Peter commented. Then Father turned toward Chuck. "Do you want to go below now?" He asked. Chuck smiled and nodded. "Yes I want to see all my friends." Then the three of them approached the secret door leading to the tunnels. Before he entered the tunnel Chuck turned and spoke to Catherine. "I will see you later at the party." She smiled and nodded. Then the three of them entered the tunnels and closed the secret door behind them.

Once they were gone Peter turned to Catherine. "Honey why don't you go take a shower and change clothes?" he asked. Catherine suddenly looked very upset. "What is it Cathy?" He asked. "Well I wish that I could wear something special tonight." She told him. Peter smiled and put his arm around her. "Honey after I found out from Charles that you were indeed alive I brought all your clothes out of storage they are in the bedroom." He stated. She smiled brightly and kissed his cheek. "Thank you Peter." Then she moved toward the bedroom door. "Now I will go take that shower." She told him. She entered the bedroom and closed the door behind her. Peter smiled happily as he thought about the joyous reunion that he would witness tonight. Then he turned toward the kitchen to put on some tea for them.

As this was happening, Father, Devin and Chuck entered the inhabited tunnels. Chuck walked and looked around like an excited child. He smiled as he remembered childhood memories in tunnels. "Nothing has changed." He marveled. Father looked over toward Devin and smiled. "Nothing about home ever does." Devin told him. Chuck looked at him and nodded. "Yes and no matter where Dad and I ended up this was always my home." Father placed a hand on his shoulder. "I know that your father had a hard time after your mother died in childbirth." He commented. Chuck saw the sadness in the older man's eyes. "Father there was nothing that you could have done to save my mother or my baby sister." Chuck commented. Father smiled appreciatively and nodded. "I just wish that your father could have understood that." He stated sadly. "I lost a truly good friend when he took you and left the tunnels." Devin nodded in agreement. "Yes and Vincent and I lost one of our best friends." Then they walked on toward Father's chamber.

Once they entered the chamber Mary met them. "Jacob we heard on the pipes that you had returned." She said as they embraced. Chuck looked over at Devin shocked. "They got married a couple of months ago." He whispered to Chuck. Mary heard Devin's voice and turned to greet him. She smiled brightly when she saw Chuck. "Charles is that you?" He smiled and embraced her. "How are you Mary?" Chuck asked. She smiled brightly at him. "I am just fine it is wonderful to see you again." She told him as they embraced once again. Then she smiled and moved to embrace Devin. "Where is Vincent?" Chuck asked as he looked around the chamber. "I suspect that he is in his chamber with baby Jacob." Mary told him. Devin smiled and nodded. Then he took Chuck by the arm and led him out of the chamber. "Come on let's go see him." Devin commented.

Above in Peter's house Catherine walked out of the bedroom into the kitchen. Peter turned around and smiled at her. "So how do you feel now?" He asked as she sat down at the table. She smiled as she poured herself a cup of tea. "I will be just fine once I am in Vincent's arms again." She beamed. Peter smiled and nodded. "But in the mean time young lady you need to eat." He told her. She smiled and giggled. "Always the doctor huh Peter." She told him. He smiled then turned around to make their sandwiches.

Back in the tunnels, Devin and Chuck quietly approached Vincent's chamber. "I will go in and see him first." Devin whispered. Chuck smiled and nodded. Then Devin moved into the chamber. "Hey there little brother." Devin commented. Vincent looked up from the book that he was reading and smiled. "So when did you return?" Vincent asked as they embraced. "We got home a few moments ago." Devin told him. Then Devin moved out of the embrace. "We brought someone home with us that wants to see you." He told Vincent. Vincent looked at him confused. Devin looked out into the tunnel. "Come on in." he spoke to someone. "Devin what is going on?" Vincent asked. Suddenly he saw Chuck. "Charles is that you?" He asked. Chuck smiled and nodded. "Yes Vincent how are you my friend?" Chuck asked. Vincent smiled and embraced him. "It has been a very long time." He commented. Chuck smiled back and nodded. "Yes it has my friend. "How have you been?" Chuck asked. He moved over and looked down at the cradle that held his and Catherine's son. "We have been doing all right." He said quietly. Chuck then moved toward him. He looked down at the baby asleep in the cradle. "He is absolutely beautiful." Chuck told him. Vincent nodded. "Yes he looks exactly like his mother Catherine." Vincent told him. "Well why don't the three of us sit down and talk before we have to leave for the party." Vincent suggested. Chuck looked over at Devin who smiled. "That sounds wonderful Vincent." Chuck commented. Then they sat down and talked happily.

At 5:45p.m. Peter and Catherine entered the tunnels. Catherine was so excited that she almost skipped along as they walked toward Father's chamber. When they entered the chamber they found Father there waiting for them. Father looked up and smiled as Catherine descended the steps. "Welcome home dear Catherine." Father told her as they embraced. "Thank you Father." She answered. "Father when can I see my men?" Catherine asked excitedly. Father put his arm around her shoulder and smiled at her. "You can see them in a few minutes." He told her. "Now let's get you to the Great Hall before everyone arrives." Then the three of them walked out of the chamber.

A little while later everyone assembled in the great hall. They all turned to face Father as he began to speak. "Welcome everyone to our first annual Christmas party." Father announced. Everyone smiled and cheered. From her position above them Catherine watched as Vincent walked up beside Father. She clapped her hand to her mouth to stifle the sob in her throat. Peter smiled and put his arm around her shoulder. "In a few moments honey you will be down there with Vincent and your son." He whispered. She smiled and looked up at him. "I know Peter and I cannot wait." She whispered. Then they once again turned and listened to Father as he began to speak.

"We hope that you all enjoy yourselves tonight." He continued. Then Father decided that Vincent needed to be reunited with his Catherine. "Now I would like to give Vincent his Christmas present." Vincent looked at him shocked. "Father are you sure you wish to give it to me tonight?" Vincent asked. Father smiled and nodded. "Yes Vincent would you please sit down here." Father requested. Vincent smiled and nodded. Then he took the chair that Father offered him. Father smiled and handed him a small wrapped package. Vincent took the package and began to unwrap it. When it was unwrapped he picked up the folded piece of paper that lay inside. He looked up at Father who smiled and nodded. Then Vincent opened the paper and began to read.

My son,

I was wondering what I could give you this Christmas that would mean something to you. I know that this year has been one of the hardest that you have ever faced. But yesterday Peter gave me the answer to your gift. Vincent please look up toward the tapestries to see your true gift. Merry Christmas to you my son.

Father

Vincent looked up at Father for a moment then he slowly looked up toward the tapestry. Catherine smiled brightly as their eyes met. Everyone gasped when they caught their first sight of her. Then she slowly began to descend the steps toward the lower part of the great hall. As this was going on Devin moved over beside Father. He smiled at his parent as they watched Catherine approach. Vincent just sat there staring at her. He could not take his eyes off of her. He bent slightly sideways and placed the box on the tunnel floor beside the chair. Then he slowly rose to his feet. All the while he continued to stare at Catherine as she approached. Vincent then moved toward the stairs of the small stage. He descended the steps until he reached the chamber floor. The crowd slowly parted as they watched the couple approached one another. Vincent's heart was pounding in his chest. How is this possible? He wondered as they approached one another. Catherine smiled as her tears started to fall down her face. She could not get over how beautiful he looked to her. She truly loved him more than ever before.

When both were finally face to face Vincent slowly raised a trembling hand and gently touched her face. Catherine smiled when she felt his touch. She slowly lifted her hand and pressed it against Vincent's own hand. She closed her eyes and reveled in the feel of Vincent touching her once again.

After a few seconds Vincent found his voice again. "Catherine is it truly you?" he asked hopefully. Catherine opened her eyes and smiled up at him. "Yes my darling it is." She responded. They stood there staring at one another for what seemed like an eternity. Vincent shuddered when he felt a hand on his shoulder. He turned slightly to see Father behind him. "My son it is truly your Catherine." Father told him. Vincent once again turned and looked at Catherine. He smiled as his own tears started to fall. "Oh God Catherine you have come back to me!" he sobbed as he pulled her into his arms. She smiled as her tears began to fall once again. "Yes my love I am home now." She cried as they held one another.

A few moments later Father turned and spoke to everyone assembled. "Now everyone go and have a wonderful time." He told them. "You will all have time to see Catherine later she is not going anywhere." He continued. As the crowd broke apart Vincent and Catherine were still holding one another tightly. Father approached them and put his hand on Vincent's shoulder once again. Both Vincent and Catherine turned to look at him. "Why don't the two of you go somewhere more private?" He asked. Vincent looked over at Catherine who smiled. "No Father we want to stay for the party." Catherine told him. "But for now Catherine and I are going to find our son then we are going up to the second story landing." Vincent told him. Father smiled and nodded.

Then Vincent turned and took Catherine by the hand. "Come my angel let's go find our son I am sure he wants to see his mother." He commented smiling. Just as they were about to walk away Vincent turned to address Father once again. "Father thank you so much for giving me my life back." He told the older man as they embraced. "Nonsense my boy the two of you were meant to be together." Father told him.

As they turned to walk toward the crowd Mary approached. "Welcome home Catherine dear." Mary chimed in as she stopped beside Father. Catherine smiled up at Vincent then slowly turned toward the older woman. Catherine was about to speak when she saw the child in Mary's arms. Mary smiled and began to speak. "Cathy may I introduce you to your son Jacob Charles Wells." She commented. Catherine smiled as she slowly walked toward Mary. She opened her arms and Jacob happily came to her. Catherine looked down at him lovingly and held him tightly to her breast. She turned toward Vincent and smiled. "Oh Vincent I am truly home!" She cried. Vincent smiled and came toward her. He wrapped his arms around her and their son. "Yes my love you are finally home with us where you have always belonged." He whispered. "Now let's take our son and go spend some time together." He told her. She smiled up at him and nodded. Then he took her by the hand again and led her toward the steps that led to the second story landing.

When they reached the second story landing they stopped and looked out over the party below. "Everyone looks so happy." Catherine commented. Vincent came up behind her and wrapped his arms around her. "Yes but I doubt anyone could be as happy as I am tonight." He told her as he gently kissed her neck. Catherine smiled at the feel of his lips on her skin. "Yes I doubt that also." She told him. Then they walked over to the leather sofa a few feet away. Vincent sat down first and opened his arms. "Come here my love." He told her. Catherine smiled and gently sat down trying not to wake Jacob. She snuggled up beside Vincent as he once again wrapped his arms around her.

A while later they heard laughing from someone that was climbing the steps toward them. Catherine and Vincent both looked up and saw Devin and Charles approach. "Hey you two." Devin commented. "Hello Devin." Vincent said somewhat annoyed. Devin looked over at Charles and grinned impishly. "Hey Chuck it looks as if my little brother is annoyed with us for interrupting." Devin teased. Vincent looked at him and shook his head. "No Devin I am not annoyed with Charles." Vincent commented dryly. "Well is that the thanks I get for helping bring your lady home for you?" Devin asked acting hurt. Vincent suddenly felt very sorry. "Devin you know that I appreciate everything that you Father and Peter did." He said. Devin looked at him and put his hand on Vincent's shoulder. "Hey I was only joking." He stated. "Anyway Chuck was the one who called Peter in the first place." Devin commented. Vincent looked from Devin to Charles. Then he rose from the sofa. "So you were the one who brought about this wonderful miracle." Vincent said smiling. Chuck smiled and blushed. "All I did was call Peter to tell him that Cathy was alive." He said. Then Catherine rose up beside Vincent. "Chuck that is everything to the two of us." She told her new friend.

Suddenly Jacob roused and began whimpering. "What is it darling?" Catherine asked as she tried to soothe him. "Well it looks as if our son is hungry." Vincent commented. "I will take him to Mary." Catherine told Vincent. Devin shook his head. "No Cathy you need some time alone with Vincent we will deliver him safely to Mary." He stated as he took his nephew in his arms. Catherine smiled and walked back up beside Vincent. She wrapped her arm around his waist and smiled. "Thank you both." She told them. "No problem Cathy the two of you deserve it." Chuck told her. Then they turned and walked down the stairs.

Once they were gone Vincent put his arm around Catherine and turned her back toward the sofa. "Now my love we can have our time." He told her as they snuggled down together. They sat there holding one another for a few moments then Vincent spoke again. "Catherine what happened to you?" he asked as he looked at her. She turned slightly so that she could look up into his face. "Love I want you to know everything but not now." She commented. "Let's just enjoy Christmas then I will tell you and everyone else the whole story." Vincent lifted her hands and gently kissed them. "All right my love anything that you want." He told her. Then they snuggled together once again.

About an hour later they decided to join the party. Father looked up from his chessboard and smiled as he saw them descending the steps. "I am so glad that he has Catherine back." Father commented as he looked across the board at Peter. Peter smiled brightly and nodded. "Yes now they can have the life together that they always dreamed about." He commented. Father smiled brightly as he watched them waltz by. "Yes they can." He agreed.

While they were dancing Jamie and Mouse approached the couple. "Cathy it is wonderful to have you back." Jamie told her as they embraced. "Thank you both I missed you both very much." Catherine told them. Then Mouse looked at Catherine and spoke. "Catherine stay with Vincent?" he asked innocently. Catherine looked at Mouse then she looked up at Vincent and smiled. "Yes Mouse I am staying with Vincent and Jacob forever." She commented. Mouse smiled happily. "Okay good okay fine." He commented. Then he and Jamie walked away. "They have truly missed you." Vincent told as they once again began dancing. "I have missed them also." She commented.

As they finished dancing Catherine noticed that Father was sitting alone. She turned and looked up at Vincent. "Sweetheart why don't you go and play a game of chess with Father." She suggested. "Catherine are you trying to get rid of me already?" He teased. She smiled and shook her head. "No love I just do not want you to neglect him." She commented. He smiled and gently kissed her. "I love you my darling Catherine." He whispered. She looked up at him and smiled. "And I love you." She answered.

Then Vincent moved away from her and walked toward Father. Catherine was standing watching him as Mary came up beside her. "Oh Mary I did not see you." Catherine commented. "That is alright my dear I thought you would like to spend some time alone with this little boy." She commented handing Jacob to his mother. Catherine took him into her arms and kissed him. "Thank you for everything Mary." Catherine told the older woman. Mary smiled and patted her shoulder. "Now baby how about you and I mingle?" Catherine asked Jacob as he looked up at her. With that they moved toward a group of their friends.

Later in the evening Vincent and Father were engrossed in their third chess game. Catherine was still walking around the room with Jacob talking to everyone of their friends. The band had taken a break and everyone was talking. Suddenly the music resumed. Catherine looked down at Jacob and smiled. "Shall we dance my baby?" She asked him as he looked happily at her. Catherine walked toward the dance floor and stepped out of the crowd. She held Jacob tightly against her as she slowly began to circle the floor. Everyone that was dancing stopped and watched this beautiful scene. They smiled as Catherine swayed back and forth with Jacob. Father noticed that everyone had stopped dancing. "What's going on?" Father asked Vincent as he looked around. Vincent looked up at him then noticed that everyone's attention was directed toward the dance floor. He stood to see what was going on.

A few seconds later a loving smiled crossed his face. "Vincent what is it?" Father asked when he saw the look on his face. "Well Father it looks as if Catherine and our son are dancing." Vincent stated. Father smiled brightly. Vincent turned and put the chess piece that he was holding back on the board. Then he addressed Father. "Would it be all right if we finish our game some other time?" he asked. Father smiled and nodded. "Yes of course my boy go be with your family now." Vincent smiled then walked toward the dance floor.

As Vincent approached Catherine he stopped and waited until she turned toward him. "May I join the two of you?" He asked as he bowed gallantly. Catherine smiled then she looked at Jacob. "What do you think baby can daddy dance with us?" Jacob laughed happily at the sight of his father. Catherine looked up at Vincent and smiled. "I will take that as a yes." He commented. Then he wrapped his arms around them and they started dancing. Everyone smiled happily as they watched the lovely scene in front of them. Vincent looked down at Catherine and smiled. "This is absolutely wonderful." He mused. She smiled up at him. "Yes it is Vincent." She commented as they circled the floor.

Soon Catherine noticed that Jacob was sleeping with his head against her shoulder. She looked up at Vincent and smiled. "I guess we should go and put this little boy to bed." She commented. Vincent smiled down at her and nodded. They walked off the dance floor and approached Father and Mary. "Father we are going to leave now." Vincent told them. "Jacob is sleeping soundly so we are going to put him to bed." He continued. Mary looked at him and Catherine. "Would the two of you like to leave him with us tonight?" She asked. "We will keep him so that the two of you can have time alone tonight." She continued. Vincent looked over at Catherine for her opinion. She smiled and nodded. "Yes Mary that would be wonderful." Vincent told her. Catherine gently handed Jacob to the older woman. "Come on Sweetheart." Mary cooed as she took him. "Goodnight my darling we will see you tomorrow." Catherine whispered as she kissed his cheek. Then she turned to Vincent. He took her hand and they left the great hall.

A few minutes later they entered Vincent's chamber. "Oh I have missed this chamber!" Catherine exclaimed as she sat down on the bed and removed her shoes. "Well my love you are home now." Vincent told her as he pulled off his cloak. After he hung it by the chamber entrance he walked toward Catherine. When he was directly in front of her he reached out and pulled her to her feet. "I love you so much Catherine." He told her as he held her tightly against him. "And I love you." She responded. Then Vincent leaned back slightly and smiled at her. He bent his head toward hers. Catherine gasped as he captured her lips in a rather passionate kiss. Catherine wrapped her arms around his neck in order to get closer to him.

When they parted both were breathless. "I have wanted to kiss you like that for a very long time." He told her as he looked into her eyes. "So have I." she whispered. Vincent then turned and led her toward his ornate desk chair. He sat down and pulled her down onto his lap. Catherine smiled at his newfound boldness. She snuggled down into his arms and laid her head on his shoulder. They held one another that way for a long time.

A while later they were still sitting there holding one another. "Catherine I know that you told me that you would tell me everything after the holidays but please tell me now." He requested. Catherine lifted her head from his shoulder and looked into his eyes. She saw the pleading in his beautiful blue eyes and her heart broke. "All right my darling I will tell you." She responded. She shifted slightly and looked deep into his eyes. "When I was found in the apartment they took me to the coroner's office." She began. Vincent tightened his arms around her at the memories this evoked in him. "When the coroner was about to begin the autopsy he hooked me up to a heart monitor." She continued. "Catherine why would he do that if they believed that you were dead?" Vincent asked. "Well apparently they do that to make sure that there is no kind of heart activity." She responded. "He was about to start the autopsy when the heart monitor beeped once." She stated. "Apparently when he heard this he stopped as the monitor continued to beep." Catherine then looked down and gently stroked the tension lines out of Vincent's face.

Once she knew that he was calm again she began telling him more about her time away from him. "When he stopped the autopsy he decided to call the FBI since this was a mob related case." She told him. "They had me moved to the hospital in Washington when it was determined by a doctor that I was in fact in a deep coma." Vincent once again tightened his arms around her.

She looked down into his face and noticed that he was crying. "Love I will stop if you want me too." She told him lovingly. Vincent shook his head. "No Catherine please continue I need to hear everything." She smiled and nodded. "Well after a few months I awoke." She stated. "I had to undergo therapy to regain my strength and that took more time." She told him. "Then I met Charles." She told him smiling. "Yes he has been a real friend to us." Vincent commented. "Yes he has." Catherine commented. "How did you meet him?" Vincent asked. "Well he was put in charge of my protection when the other agent in charge of my protection was arrested." She commented. "Why was he arrested?" Vincent asked. Catherine knew that this would frighten him. "Vincent he was arrested for trying to kill me while I was still in the coma." She commented. "Apparently he was working for an associate of Gabriel." She stated. Suddenly Vincent pulled her to him. "Catherine please tell me that he did not harm you." He begged. She smiled gently. "No love he never got the chance they stopped him before he could harm me." Vincent smiled and sighed with great relief.

They talked for the next hour. "Catherine why did they wait so long to contact Peter?" Vincent asked. "Well apparently the first agent that tried to kill me told everyone that he had in fact contacted Peter." She responded. "At the time they had no reason to think that he was lying so they never checked it out." She told him. "But when he was arrested Charles decided to find out if he had in fact contacted anyone." She told him. "Charles asked him point blank if he had contacted anyone and he admitted that he had not." She told him.

Once Catherine was done speaking she smiled lovingly at Vincent. Then she bent forward and gently kissed him on the lips. When she moved back she noticed that he was smiling at her. "You Catherine are absolutely wonderful." He told her breathlessly. She smiled at him and replied. "Thank you my love." Then they began kissing once again.

A little later they were interrupted by the sound of someone approaching the chamber. They looked up to see Father entering the chamber. "I wanted to let you know that tonight's party is over." The tunnel elder commented. "So did the children have a good time?" Vincent asked. Father smiled and nodded. "Yes they did." Father stated. "But they were very disappointed that they did not get to spend more time with Catherine." He continued. She smiled down at Vincent and they both chuckled. "Well I will just have to see them tomorrow." She commented. Father smiled and nodded.

Then Father turned and was about to leave the chamber when Catherine rose from Vincent's lap. "Father wait please." She requested. Father turned and he and Vincent both looked at her confused. Catherine then turned and knelt down in front of Vincent. "Love if you would be more comfortable I will have Father get me a guest chamber." She commented. Vincent shook his head and reached for her. "No Catherine you are home with me now and I will never be separated from you again." He told her. "You will stay here with Jacob and me in our chamber." He continued. She smiled and nodded. "All right love I just wanted you to be sure." She told him. Vincent pulled her down once again into his lap. "I am sure." He told her as she snuggled into his arms. She smiled and laid her head on his shoulder. Father smiled at this sight. "Well my children in that case I will say goodnight." He commented. "Good night Father." They both said in unison. Then Father left the chamber.

Once they were alone again the two of them sat there silently holding one another. Catherine snuggled down even more into Vincent's lap and once again laid her head on his shoulder. She smiled and closed her eyes letting her mind wander. Soon she was happily sleeping. Vincent noticed this and smiled. He gently kissed her forehead then he slowly rose with her in his arms. He carried her toward the bed where he laid her down very gently trying not to wake her. He then backed off and slowly made his way around the chamber extinguishing the candles.

When the candles were out he walked toward the chamber entrance. He reached over and took the lantern off the hook beside the entrance then he left the chamber. He returned a short time later and pulled the tapestry down over the entrance. Then he turned and looked back at Catherine. He smiled lovingly when he saw that she was still sleeping peacefully. He quietly approached the bed where he undressed. Then he moved toward Catherine. He bent over her and gently began to undress her. Suddenly Catherine opened her eyes. She smiled sleepily at him. She noticed that he was naked. She ran a hand up his arm and smiled wickedly. "What is this?" She asked. Vincent smiled at her seductively. "I thought I would sleep more comfortably this way." He told her. She smiled once again and nodded. "Well that sounds wonderful." She told him. Then she lifted her hands to assist him. Vincent smiled and brushed them away. "No my darling I will do it for you." He commented. She smiled and lay back on the bed.

Once she was naked Catherine smiled and held out her arms. "Now come here to me my love." She told him. Vincent smiled down at her then he joined her on the bed. He leaned over her and gently kissed her. Catherine moaned as she felt him caress her. Then when she was fully aroused Vincent moved over top of her and joined their bodies. Afterward they both fell into a wonderfully peaceful sleep.

The next morning Catherine awoke to find him looking at her. "Hey how long have you been awake?" She asked as she smiled and stretched. She turned into his embrace. He gently kissed her forehead. "Not long." He answered. "I woke and could not believe that this was not a dream that you were truly lying beside me in our bed." He whispered. Catherine smiled as she kissed his cheek. "No my love this is not a dream." She promised. "I am here with you." She continued. Vincent smiled and nodded. "Yes you are and you are never going far away from me or our son again." He vowed. She smiled up at him teasingly. "Just remember I am going to hold you to that." She told him as she gently caressed his chest. He rose onto one elbow and smiled down at her. "Catherine that is one thing that you can be sure of." He whispered.

Then he bent down and kissed her. When they broke apart Catherine smiled again. "By the way what time is it?" She asked. "It is about 9:30." He responded. Catherine suddenly sat up. "We should get up and go see Jacob." She told him. Vincent smiled and sat up beside her. He encircled her in his arms once again. "Catherine this is the best Christmas of my life." He told her. She looked up at him and smiled lovingly. "Yes love it is for both of us." She stated.

After a few more minutes Vincent released her and rose. "I will go bathe and dress." He said. She smiled up at him as she rose from the bed. "All right love." She responded. "I will take a few minutes to put my things away." She told him pointing at her suitcases that someone had sat in the entrance of the chamber. He smiled and nodded. Then he leaned forward and kissed her again. She smiled as they broke apart. "You keep doing that and we will totally miss Christmas." Vincent smiled mischievously. Catherine giggled happily and shook her head. "No Vincent we have a baby that I want to see as soon as possible." Vincent smiled and nodded then took his clothes and left the chamber.

A while later they were walking arm in arm into the dining chamber. Everyone looked up and smiled when they entered. "Good morning Father." Vincent commented as he approached them. "Good morning you two." He stated smiling. "How are you both this glorious morning?" He asked. Catherine smiled at him. "We are wonderful!" she told him happily. Then Father noticed Catherine looking around the room. "Mary is bringing Jacob in a few moments." He told her. She smiled a bit embarrassed. "Am I that transparent?" She asked laughing. "Just a bit my dear but it is expected." Father told her. She moved away from Vincent and hugged the tunnel elder. "I love you Father." She whispered. "And I love you my dear." He answered. Vincent smiled as he watched the exchange between the two. "Well I better go and see that the great hall is ready." Father commented as he winked at them. "Alright Father." Vincent told him. "We are going to eat then we will be along." He added. "That is fine." Father stated. Then he left the chamber.

After they had gotten their food Vincent and Catherine moved toward a table slightly away from everyone else. They were sitting there when Mary entered the chamber with a still sleepy Jacob. She smiled as she approached them. "Good morning Mary." Catherine commented as she and Vincent both rose from their seats. "I thought that the two of you would like to eat with this little man." She commented. "Oh yes we would." Catherine chimed in as she took her son in her arms. "I will get his food from William." Vincent told Catherine as he moved away. "All right my love." She answered as she watched him walk away. "Well I better go and see to the other children." Mary commented. "We will see you later in the great hall." Catherine told her. "Yes." Mary answered then she turned and walked away from Catherine.

Once they were alone Catherine looked down into the deep blue eyes of her son. "How are you my baby?" She asked as she caressed his cheek. He looked up at her and smiled. "Mama!" he suddenly squealed. Catherine looked at him in shock for a moment. Then she noticed that everyone was looking in their direction. She held him tightly against her breast and silently began to cry. Vincent walked toward her smiling. "I heard him." he whispered as he sat down. "Oh Vincent what a wonderful Christmas present." She told him. "Yes my love hearing your child's first word is a wonderful gift." He answered. Then the three of them ate their breakfast.

An hour later they entered the great hall. Catherine smiled up at Vincent as they watched all the children around the tree in the middle of the room. "Shall we go see what Santa has brought for you?" Catherine asked Jacob. She turned toward Vincent and smiled. "I will be over there with Father." Vincent told her. She smiled and nodded. Then Vincent leaned down and gently kissed her. After the kiss she walked toward the tree. "Hello Catherine!" Zach chimed happily as she walked up beside him. "Hi Zach how are you?" She asked. "I am fine we are glad you are home." He told her. "Thank you." Catherine responded.

Then Kipper ran up to her. "Catherine this is for Jacob." He told her as he handed her a small wrapped gift. "Thank you Kipper." She called as he ran away. "Shall we sit down here and open this?" She asked Jacob as he smiled brightly. She sat down on the floor and helped him unwrap the gift. She opened the box and pulled out the small painted train. "Oh Jacob look!" she exclaimed like a child. He smiled as he took the train and looked at her. "Let's play with it." She told him. Soon they were moving the train around on the carpet.

As this was happening Vincent and Father were watching. "I see that Jacob liked his present from Cullen." Father commented. "Yes apparently his mother is having just as much fun as he is." Vincent responded smiling. "Vincent I thought you would like to know that Nancy and her family and Jenny and Joe are due here any moment." Father commented. Vincent smiled brightly. "I thought they could not come this year." He commented. "Well Peter called them and let them know about our Christmas miracle." He stated as he looked over at Catherine who was happily playing with Jacob and the other children.

Suddenly he looked up. "They are here." He commented. Vincent looked up and saw the four enter the chamber. "I will be back." He told Father. Then he rose and approached them. "Hello everyone." Vincent told them. "Where is she?" Nancy sobbed as her tears began to fall. Vincent smiled and embraced her. "Come I will take you all to her." he told them. They all walked toward the tree. "Catherine there is someone that wants to see you." Vincent commented behind her. She rose from the floor and turned toward him. She gasped and put her hand to her mouth when she saw Nancy and Jenny. "Oh God Cath!" They both cried in unison. Then they three friends embraced. When they parted Catherine noticed Nancy's family and Joe. She smiled and embraced Nancy's husband Paul. She then turned toward Joe. "Hey Joe." She commented happily. "Cathy I cannot believe this." He told her as they embraced. "Oh Joe you look wonderful!" she cried. "So do you." He told her as they separated.

Once they were calm again Joe got very serious. "Where in the world have you been?" He asked. Jenny walked over and put her arm around him. "Honey I am sure she will explain." She told him. Catherine looked at them shocked. "We married a couple of months ago." Jenny told her. "That is wonderful!" Catherine told her as they embraced. "And to answer your question I was in a hospital in Washington." She told Joe. "I thought everyone knew I was alive until the agent guarding me found out that it was not true." She commented. "Who is this agent?" Joe asked. Just as she was about to answer Chuck approached. "My name is Agent Charles Wright." He commented as he shook Joe's hand. "Cathy if you want I will tell him the story so that you can get back to Jacob." He offered. Catherine and Vincent smiled. "Thank you Chuck." Then she, Jenny and Nancy walked toward a distant table to talk.

Later in the afternoon after Nancy and her family had left the tunnels Catherine looked around the great hall for Vincent. She smiled when she saw him talking to Joe. She gently rose from her chair trying not to wake Jacob. She approached the men and stood almost directly behind them not wanting to interrupt their conversation. "So Vincent I bet you never thought that you would receive such a special Christmas gift this year." Joe commented smiling. "No Joe I was very happily surprised when Father and Devin brought Catherine home to me." Vincent told him. "This is truly the most miraculous Christmas of my life." He continued. "As it is for me love." Catherine interjected from behind them. Joe and Vincent both turned around toward her. "How long have you been there?" Joe asked. "Long enough." Catherine said smiling as she walked up beside Vincent. Vincent smiled at her and gently wrapped his arm around her waist drawing her closer toward him. "I missed you so I decided to come looking for you." Catherine told him. "Well I missed you and our son also." He told her looking down at their sleeping child.

As Joe was watching this interaction Jenny approached him. "Sweetie we need to be getting to my parent's house." She told him. "Yes I did not realize it was this late." He commented. "Do you really have to leave?" Catherine asked. Jenny and Joe smiled and nodded. "Yes you know how mom and dad can get when I am late." Jenny laughed. Catherine smiled and laughed. "Yes I remember." She commented. They hugged then Joe and Jenny started to leave the great hall. "I will return after I guide them out." Vincent told Catherine. She smiled and nodded. "Yes of course my love." She responded with a kiss to his cheek. Then Vincent, Joe and Jenny left the great hall.

A while later Vincent returned. He smiled as he walked up behind Catherine. He gently wrapped his arms around her waist. "I am back my darling." He whispered. She smiled and leaned back against his chest. "I missed you." She commented. "And I missed you." He answered. Then he noticed that Jacob was still asleep in her arms. "Catherine how about leaving Jacob with Mary?" He asked hopefully. Catherine moved forward slightly then turned around. She smiled up at him. "What did you have in mind?" She asked. Vincent smiled at her meaning. Then he leaned forward and whispered into her ear. "Later." She smiled lovingly. "I thought we could go to our secret place." He commented. Catherine smiled brightly once again. "Oh yes Vincent I desperately want to see our place." She commented. Vincent smiled then took Jacob in his arms. He moved toward Mary and whispered in her ear. She smiled lovingly and took the child. Then Vincent returned to Catherine. "Come with me my angel." He requested as he took her hand in his. "I would follow you anywhere." She told him. He kissed her hand then led her from the great hall.

A few minutes later they entered the chamber of the falls. Catherine smiled as she inhaled the scent of the water. "I have missed it here." She told Vincent as he encircled her in his arms. Then he turned her around. "So my love are you ready to go to our secret place?" He asked smiling. She smiled back at him and nodded. "Yes just lead the way." She commented. Vincent smiled then took her hand and led her to the trail that led toward their cavern beyond the great waterfall.

When they arrived at the secret cavern behind the falls Catherine gasped. The cavern was fully lit with candles and there was a blanket with many pillows on the floor of the cavern. She turned and looked up at Vincent. "This is beautiful." She commented. Vincent smiled and put his arms around her. "Not as beautiful as you are my love." He whispered. He moved forward and took her hand. "Come with me my love." He prompted. Then without hesitation they walked into the cavern.

Vincent moved carefully around the blanket and gently helped Catherine sit down. Then he sat down behind her. He smiled as she looked back at him. Without any hesitation he opened his arms. Catherine smiled and moved back against Vincent's chest. He encircled his arms around her and held her tightly. "I have missed our cavern." She stated dreamily. Vincent kissed the top of her head then spoke. "I have not been here since you vanished." Catherine looked back at him. "Love why not?" She asked. Vincent tightened his arms around her. "Catherine this place means so much to us that I could not come here without you." He stated. "I would not have felt right." He added. "I am so sorry you went through that pain." She whispered sadly. "No Catherine we both went through that pain but now it is over and we only have the future to look forward to." He commented. Catherine smiled and nodded. "Yes." She answered.

Suddenly Vincent released her. He rose to his feet and walked around in front of her. Catherine was confused by this action. "What are you doing love?" She asked. Vincent smiled then knelt down before her. "Catherine I brought you here for another reason." He began. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small box. "Father gave this to me a long time ago." He told her. He handed the box to Catherine. "What is it?" She asked. Vincent smiled. "Open it." He directed. She smiled then opened the box. "Oh Vincent this is beautiful!" She said breathlessly. Vincent took the diamond ring from the box. "This was Margaret's engagement ring." He began. Catherine felt her heart begin to race. "Catherine I cannot live without you any longer would you do me the extreme honor and become my wife?" He asked. Catherine smiled as her tears began to fall. She reached up and caressed his face. "Oh yes my beautiful darling." She breathed. Vincent smiled as he slipped the ring on her finger. Then he gently kissed her.

As they parted Vincent smiled at Catherine. "So when shall we marry?" He asked as he sat down behind her once again. She smiled as she once again leaned against him. "As soon as possible." She remarked. Vincent chuckled and wrapped his arms around her. "I believe that can be arranged but we need to go back to the great hall and tell everyone." He commented. Then they rose and left the chamber.

A few minutes later they walked into the great hall. They looked around and found Father across the room playing with Jacob. Vincent smiled at Catherine then they approached Father. "Father may we speak to you?" Vincent asked as they sat down beside him. Jacob spotting his mother began to whimper. Father smiled and handed him to her. She gently took him into her arms and cuddled him. "Yes of course Vincent what is it you want to talk about?" Father asked. Vincent smiled at Catherine then spoke. "Father I have asked Catherine to be my wife and she has accepted." Vincent told him. Father smiled happily. "That is wonderful." He told them. "How soon can we be married?" Vincent asked. Father thought a moment then smiled. "I see no reason you cannot be married on New Year's Eve." He commented. Catherine smiled brightly. "Oh that is wonderful!" She exclaimed. Then she handed Jacob to his father and rose from her chair. She moved over and hugged Father very tightly. "Thank you so much Father." She told him. Father smiled lovingly at her. "No Catherine thank you for making my son and grandson happy." He whispered. She smiled as her tears began to fall. "I love you Father." She whispered. He smiled at her. "And I love you dear Catherine." He told her.

Later after breakfast in the great hall everyone dispersed to go his or her own way. Vincent and Catherine accompanied Father and Mary back to the main chamber. "So I believe we should begin planning this wedding." Father told them. Vincent was about to comment when a message of an intruder was sent over the tunnels. He quickly rose from his seat. "I will be back soon." He told Father. Then he turned to Catherine. "I will come with you." She told him. Vincent smiled and shook his head. "No Catherine stay here I will be alright." He commented. Then he leaned down and gently kissed her. After they broke apart Vincent ran from the chamber. Catherine smiled shakily as she looked at Mary. "He will be fine Catherine." The older woman told her. "I know but I cannot help but worry about him." Catherine told her. Mary and Father nodded in understanding.

A little while later Vincent returned. Catherine handed Jacob to Mary and rose from her chair. She smiled and walked into Vincent's arms. "I was so worried about you." She whispered. Vincent kissed her temple and smiled at her. "My love it was only a group of teens who got lost and were playing with the gate." He told her. "Should we do something about it?" Father asked concerned. Vincent looked over at him and shook his head. "No after a few moments they left the drainage tunnel." Vincent told him. "Even so I will tell all the sentries to keep a closer eye on that area." Father commented. Vincent smiled at him and nodded. "Alright but now I would like to spend the rest of the afternoon with my family." He stated. Catherine smiled as Mary placed Jacob in her arms. "We will see you both later." She told them. Father and Mary smiled as they left the tunnels.

As they were walking along Catherine looked up at Vincent. "Are we going to our chamber?" She asked. Vincent smiled at her and shook his head. "No I thought the three of us would go to the falls." He commented. Catherine smiled and leaned her head on his shoulder. "That sounds absolutely wonderful darling." She whispered. Vincent wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her even closer to him. "Yes it does sound wonderful." He whispered.

While this was going on above Diana was entering her apartment. She had gone to her family's for the holidays and she was happy to be home. She desperately wanted to see Vincent. She rushed to her bedroom and unpacked her suitcase. Then she checked her messages. When there were no messages to return she prepared herself a light dinner. After she had eaten she walked up to the roof because she felt that Vincent would in fact visit tonight. She smiled as she thought of spending time with him once again.

A couple of hours later Diana looked at her watch. She frowned when she realized that Vincent probably was not coming. He probably had to take care of those damn tunnels. She thought to herself. She had grown to resent the fact that Vincent put the tunnels and his child in front of her. She felt that she should be the most important person in Vincent's life. Even after everyone had tried to discourage her feelings for Vincent she persisted. She loved him and she was determined to be with him no matter what.

She looked at her watch once again and growled in frustration. Then she quickly made her decision. If he will not come to me I will go to him. She thought. She turned and entered her apartment once again. After putting on her jacket and collecting her flashlight she left her apartment.

Down in the tunnels everyone had gathered in the kitchen chamber for dinner. Catherine and Vincent happily told their friends of their plans to marry as soon as possible. Everyone was truly happy for them. "Cathy do you have a dress?" Mary asked. Catherine suddenly got a stricken look on her face. "Oh no Mary I forgot all about that." She stated. Mary smiled as Vincent put his arm around her. "Cathy we will take care of that." Mary assured her. Catherine took a deep breath and smiled. "Thank you so much Mary." She told the older woman. Pascal then walked up. "Hey if you need the helpers to get some things for the wedding let me know and I will send them a message." He told Vincent and Catherine. The couple smiled at their friend. "We appreciate that Pascal." Vincent told the pipemaster.

After dinner the council gathered for a short meeting. While the meeting was going on Diana entered the tunnels. She smiled as she approached Father's chamber. She ducked her head and entered the chamber. She stood in the shadows and watched Vincent from a distance. He was so beautiful to her and she loved him so much. Catherine had elected to stay behind in their chamber with Jacob. Diana watched for a few minutes.

Then she decided to go wait for Vincent in his chamber. She walked along the passage that led to Vincent's chamber. She was surprised when she saw candlelight coming from inside the chamber. She figured that Mary or someone else was watching Jacob. She walked up to the chamber entrance. She suddenly stopped when she saw Catherine sitting inside the chamber rocking Jacob. "Who are you?" Diana suddenly asked. Catherine rose from the chair and turned to see who was there. "I am Catherine." She told the strange red headed woman who stood before her. "You cannot be Catherine Chandler." Diana told her. "She is dead." Catherine walked over and put Jacob down in his crib.

Then she turned around toward Diana again. "Yes I am Catherine Chandler." She told Diana. "Who are you?" Catherine asked. Diana squared her shoulders. "My name is Diana Bennett." She stated. "I am the new woman in Vincent's life." Catherine was stunned. "I know that you are his friend." Catherine told her. Diana shook her head. "No we are more than friends we are in love."

Catherine stood there staring at the woman. "You are not the woman that Vincent loves!" She argued. "I am the only woman that he loves." Diana snorted. "Miss Chandler you have been gone for a long time and Vincent has finally moved on with his life." Diana told her. "I think that it would be wise for you to pack your things and go make your life somewhere else." Diana warned. Then without another word Diana turned and walked away from the chamber. Catherine stood there in shock after Diana had left. She soon began to shake uncontrollably. She picked up the baby and left the chamber. She had to get away from the chamber for a while to think about what this woman had said to her.

Diana walked along the tunnel somewhat stunned but happy with herself. Now to convince Vincent that she is leaving. Diana thought. Soon she entered Father's chamber. The meeting was just breaking up and everyone on the council was still there. Father and Vincent looked up when she entered the chamber. "Hello Diana I was not aware that you were back." Vincent told her. She walked down the steps and smiled sweetly at him. "I arrived a while ago." She told him. Then she looked over at Father. "Hello Father how are you?" She asked. Father smiled slightly and nodded. "I am fine Diana I hope your holidays were good." He told her. She smiled again. "Well they were alright but I missed Vincent and Jacob terribly." She commented. Vincent looked at Father. He knew that he had to tell Diana that Catherine had returned. "Diana please sit down there is something wonderful that I must tell you." Vincent commented. Diana sat down in a chair close to him. "Vincent if you are going to tell me about Catherine being alive I already know." She commented. Vincent was shocked. "How did you know that she was alive?" He asked. "I went your chamber to wait for you and I met her." Diana commented. "We talked a bit and I think that she finally understands the situation." She added.

After a few moments Vincent rose from his seat. "What are you saying Diana?" He asked. She looked up at him and smiled. "I told her that we were in love and that she should pack her belongings and go make a life for herself somewhere else." She stated proudly. Vincent suddenly spun around. "How dare you say something like that to the woman that I love!" He seethed. Devin and Charles walked up beside Vincent. "Calm down Vincent." Devin requested. Vincent shook his head. "No Devin she has overstepped her bounds!" He commented angrily. "Vincent we know that but getting angry will not help the situation." Charles told him. Vincent ignored them. He looked at Diana and began to speak again. "I love Catherine and my son more than anyone on this earth and I do not appreciate your interference!" He added. Diana rose from her chair. "But Vincent we were becoming a family." She argued. "Darling you are my love and I will not give you up!" she told him adamantly.

Father suddenly rose from his seat. "Miss Bennett I believe you have really interfered in a situation that is none of your concern." He commented. "Catherine is not only the woman that my son is in love with she is also a valued member of this community." He told her. "I will not tolerate you or anyone else coming into our home and hurting her." He yelled. "Now Diana I believe you have overstayed your welcome here." Vincent told her as he turned to face her again. "I must request that you never come here again." He added. Diana was stunned. "Vincent you don't mean that!" She argued vehemently. "We can be a family and raise Jacob." She commented. Vincent shook his head. "No!" He snarled. "Now leave!" he growled. Diana's shoulders slumped. She turned to walk out of the chamber. But before she left she addressed Vincent once again. "I will be waiting for you when you give this up." She told him. Then without another word she left the tunnels.

Once she was gone Vincent began to calm down. He then turned and addressed Father. "I must go and talk to Catherine." He commented. Father nodded. "Yes go and straighten this mess out." He told him. "I will make sure that the two of you are not disturbed." Father added. Vincent nodded then ran from the chamber. After he was gone Charles shook his head. "I believe that woman is delusional." He commented. Devin and Father nodded in agreement. "Yes she has always worried me." Father told him. "I never liked the attention that she paid to Vincent or Jacob." He added. "She always seemed to want them to herself and she resented when Vincent could not spend any time with her." He told them. "I just wish that she had never met Catherine." He concluded. "Dad do you think that this will affect the wedding?" Devin asked. Father shrugged his shoulders. "I don't know Devin but I hope not for both Vincent and Catherine's sake." Charles and Devin nodded in agreement.

A few moments later Vincent ran into his and Catherine's chamber. He expected to find her there with Jacob but neither of them was in the chamber. Vincent suddenly became fearful. He hoped that Catherine was not leaving him because of what Diana had told her. He turned and left the chamber. He had to find Catherine and talk to her.

Catherine walked along the tunnel crying. She could not calm herself. The things that Diana had told her really upset her. Suddenly a voice from inside one of the chambers got her attention. "Catherine dear what in the world is the matter?" Mary stepped out of her chamber into the tunnel. Catherine stopped when she saw her. "Oh Mary!" She cried. Mary took Jacob from her and put him in the crib in her chamber then she led Catherine inside. They sat down on the bed and Mary wrapped her arms around Catherine. "Now Catherine tell me what has upset you so." Mary requested. Catherine sniffed then began to speak. "I was sitting in our chamber waiting for Vincent to come back from the meeting when Diana walked in." She began. Mary slowly nodded her head. "Cathy what did she say to you?" Mary asked. Catherine began to sob once again. "She told me that she and Vincent were deeply in love and that I should leave." Mary was shocked. "Catherine that woman has always had more feelings for Vincent than he has for her." Mary told her. "She has wanted him to fall in love with her for a long time." She added. "But Cathy you are the woman that he loves and the woman that he wants to marry." Mary told her. "This woman is delusional and a very lonely person." She commented. "I am sure that she never thought that she would see you here." Mary added. Catherine began to calm down. She wiped her eyes. "Thank you Mary I truly let it get to me." Catherine commented. Mary smiled and hugged her. "You are deeply in love with Vincent and I know the thought of losing him frightens you." She commented. Catherine nodded her head. "More than I can ever say."

With that Catherine rose. She started to pick Jacob up once again when Mary put her hand on her arm. "Why don't you leave him here so that you and Vincent can talk?" Mary asked. Catherine thought for a moment then smiled. "Thank you for everything Mary." She commented as she hugged the older woman. Mary hugged her tightly. "Now young lady go talk to Vincent I'm sure he is frantic about where you and Jacob have gone." Catherine thought a moment. "Oh God Mary I left the chamber without leaving him a note about where I was going." Catherine stated anxiously. "Catherine you were probably not sure where you were going." Mary told her. Catherine smiled then she turned and ran from the chamber. Mary smiled and picked Jacob up. "Well my little one I am sure your mommy and daddy will be fine now." She whispered to the sleeping child.

As this was going on Vincent entered their chamber once again. He had looked in all the places that he could think that Catherine and Jacob would go. He sat down in his chair and laid his head down on the desk. Soon he gave himself up to his misery and began to cry. This is how Catherine found him. She rushed to his side when she heard him crying. "Oh my love don't cry." She sobbed as she knelt down beside him. Vincent raised his tear stained face. "Catherine I was so frightened." He sobbed. She wrapped her arms around him and held him tightly. "I know you were my darling but everything is alright now." She crooned as she rubbed his back. "I am here and I am never leaving you." She vowed.

When he was calmer Vincent reached for her and pulled her into his lap. Catherine smiled as she felt his arms go around her. "I am so sorry that she put you through that." He whispered. "She was so sure that you loved her." Catherine whispered. Vincent moved back so that he could look into her eyes. "No Catherine you must know that you are the only woman that I will ever love." He commented. "I could never live without you again." He added. "You and our son are my whole life." Catherine once again laid her head on his shoulder. "I am so sorry that I worried you when I was not here but I just had to get away for while and think." She commented. "I had to assure myself that what she said to me was only in her mind." Vincent looked into her eyes once again. "Catherine you are the only woman that I want in my life." He told her. She smiled brightly. "Good because I am the only woman that will ever be in your life unless we have a daughter." Vincent smiled. "That would not be a bad thing." He commented. Catherine smiled. "No it would not." She answered.

A few moments passed as they sat there holding one another. "Where is Jacob?" Vincent asked. Catherine lifted her head from his shoulder. "I left him with Mary." She commented. "I ended up at Mary's chamber and she and I talked things out." She added. "Then as I started to leave she suggested that I leave Jacob with her so that we could talk." Vincent smiled and nodded. "I am glad that you saw her and that the two of you talked." He commented. Catherine smiled then started to rise. "And where are you going?" Vincent asked with a slight growl in his voice. Catherine smiled at him. "I thought we were going to get our son." She told him. Vincent smiled and shook his head. "You said that he is with Mary." He remarked. "I am sure that she will watch him for a while." He told her. Catherine smiled at the implications of his words. "Well what did you plan to do while we have this time alone?" She asked. Vincent smiled slyly. "I thought that mommy and daddy could have some private time of their own." He growled. This made Catherine giggle. "You did huh?" She asked. Vincent smiled once again and nodded. "Yes my beloved angel." He answered. Then without another word he captured her lips in a very passionate kiss.

When they parted both were breathless. Catherine kissed Vincent once again then rose from his lap. Vincent watched confused as she moved toward the entrance of the chamber. "Catherine where are you going?" He asked. Catherine turned around and smiled at him. "I think we need some privacy." She stated. Then she pulled down the tapestry to cover the entrance to the chamber. Vincent smiled and rose. "I will take a lamp out into the tunnel." He stated. Then picking up an unlit lamp he exited the chamber. Catherine smiled slyly as she moved toward the bed. She slowly began to unbutton her blouse when suddenly Vincent reached around her. "Let me help you." He whispered against her ear. She sighed happily and leaned back against him. "Vincent I am so in love with you." She moaned. Vincent smiled as he slowly slid the blouse off of her shoulders. Catherine shuddered when she felt his hands graze her skin. "And I am absolutely in love with you my angel." He whispered. Then he leaned forward and softly kissed her neck. Catherine was slowly becoming very aroused. Vincent could sense this. He gently turned her to face him. He smiled lovingly at her then he once again kissed her.

A few moments later they parted and Catherine was absolutely breathless with desire. "Please make love to me now." She whimpered. Vincent smiled and gathered her in his arms. "Yes my Catherine." He whispered. Then he effortlessly picked her up and laid her down on the bed. He smiled as he stroked her skin. Catherine squirmed as she felt his touch. Then she rose onto her knees. She smiled seductively as she began to loosen the ties of Vincent's tunic. "You are overdressed." She stated. Vincent smiled as he watched her dutifully removing his clothes.

Once she was done Catherine lay back down. She smiled and reached out her hand to him. "Come here to me my darling." She whispered. Vincent took her hand and kissed it very gently. Then he climbed into bed beside her. Vincent smiled and opened his arms. "Come here to me my beloved angel." He whispered huskily. Catherine smiled as she scooted over into his arms. Vincent began to kiss her softly as she moaned. "Catherine you and our son are my greatest treasures." He whispered. Catherine reached up and cupped his cheek. "And you are my beloved angel." She told him. With that Vincent moved over her and joined their bodies.

Afterward they lay together entwined in the bed sheets. Catherine leisurely stroked his chest as Vincent calmed his breathing. "You absolutely bewitch me my love." He panted. Catherine leaned up on her elbow and smiled at him. "And you are everything to me." She stated. Suddenly Catherine got a serious look on her face. "Vincent what are we going to do about Diana?" She asked. Vincent pulled her down into his arms once again. "We are not going to worry about her." He stated. "She is clearly delusional and she cannot come between us." He declared. Catherine sighed heavily. "I know she cannot come between us but I still worry that she will not give up." She told him. Vincent rose onto one elbow and stroked her cheek. "Catherine I swear to you that nothing she told you is true." He vowed. Catherine smiled. "I know that my love." She assured him. "I have never had any reason not to trust you and I will not worry about her anymore." She promised. Vincent lay back down and once again gathered her to him. "Catherine we have nothing but a wonderful future to worry about." She smiled as they both drifted off into a peaceful sleep.

While this was going on Diana returned to her apartment. She walked into the apartment and threw her keys on the coffee table. "I cannot believe this!" She screamed aloud. "How dare that woman come back and ruin my life I will make her and Vincent sorry for what they have done. Then she sat down and began plotting her revenge.

Later that evening Catherine awoke. She turned over expecting to find Vincent beside her. But she was disappointed to find him gone. She was about to get out of bed when he reentered the chamber. "I thought I would go get this little one." Vincent told her as he handed Jacob to his mother. Catherine smiled lovingly down at their beautiful son. "Mary had some wedding details to work on so she sent me a message to come for him." Vincent told her as he sat down beside her. "Hello my baby." She crooned. "Did you have a good visit with Mary?" She asked. Vincent smiled as he watched the interchange between Catherine and the baby. "You are a wonderful mother." He whispered. Catherine looked up at him and smiled. "Thank you my love and you are a wonderful father." She told him. "Being a father was something I never expected." He told her. "But having Jacob has opened up a whole new world for me and my life." Catherine looked up at him and smiled. "And being a mother has been the most wonderful experience of my life." She told him. They spent the remainder of the evening with their son.

As the days passed the whole tunnel community was happily anticipating the wedding. "Father is everything prepared for tomorrow?" Vincent asked. Father looked up from his ledger. "Oh yes everything is prepared." Father told him. "Where is Catherine?" Father asked as he looked around. Vincent sat down and smiled. "She went above to her father's old house with Jenny." Vincent commented. "Apparently Peter told her that her father left something there that he wanted her to have." Just as he finished speaking the pipes announced Catherine's return. Vincent smiled and rose. "We will see you later Father." He told his parent. Then he quickly left the chamber.

Above Diana walked into a gun shop. She approached the clerk. "I came to pick up my pistol." She told him. "I am Detective Diana Bennett with the New York police department." The woman looked through her invoices. She smiled and nodded. "Yes Detective here we are." She told Diana as she handed her the new gun. "Thank you very much." Diana told her. She then turned and left the store. I will have my revenge at that wedding. Diana thought to herself as she walked down the street.

Vincent entered his and Catherine's chamber and found her sitting on the bed reading. "Hello my Catherine." He whispered. Catherine smiled and put her book down. Then she quickly rose and moved into his arms. "I missed you so much." She told him. Then she moved back and smiled up at him. "And I missed you." He assured her. "So what did your father want you to have?" Vincent asked as he sat down and pulled her into his lap. She smiled mysteriously. "Well I cannot tell you that." She commented. Vincent looked at her confused. Catherine giggled happily. "You see Vincent the gift is for our wedding." She told him. "And you cannot see it until tomorrow." Vincent smiled mischievously. "Are you sure you will not tell me anything?" He asked as he tickled her. Catherine giggled happily and squirmed. "No now Vincent stop that!" She told him. "Alright have your secrets." He told her. "Is Jacob sleeping?" He asked. Catherine looked over at the cradle. "Yes he has been sleeping since I got home." She whispered. Suddenly the pipes sounded for dinner. Vincent and Catherine rose from the chair. Catherine walked over and gently picked up the sleeping baby. "Come my love." Vincent told her as he wrapped his arm around her waist. Then they left the chamber.

Later that evening as they lay in bed Vincent and Catherine talked about their future. "So Vincent do you want more children?" Catherine asked. Vincent smiled at her. "Yes Catherine I would love to have more children with you." He commented. Catherine burrowed down into his arms. "Well my love if we are getting up early tomorrow we should try to sleep." Vincent told her. She smiled then gently kissed him. "Do you realize the next time we are in this bed we will be married?" She asked. Vincent smiled and returned her kiss. "Yes my love and I cannot wait." He commented. Then they happily fell asleep in one another 's arms.

The next day the tunnels were extremely busy. Vincent and Catherine had not seen one another since breakfast. Jamie, Nancy and Jenny were busy helping Catherine get ready in a side chamber. And at the same time Vincent was getting ready in their chamber with Joe, Devin, and Charles. "I am so glad you could stay for the wedding." Vincent told Charles. "I would not have missed this for the world you and Cathy deserve this happiness." He commented. "Yes they have truly been to hell and back." Joe commented. Vincent silently nodded. "Yes but we have come through that hell to find one another again." He stated. "And Chandler is a wonderful woman." Devin told his brother. Vincent smiled and put his hand on Devin's shoulder. "You don't have to tell me that." Vincent commented. "I have been aware of that for a very long time."

As this was happening Diana was preparing to go to the tunnels. She was planning on ruining the wedding and forcing Vincent to give Catherine up. She took her new gun out of her desk drawer and put it in the pocket of her coat. Then she picked up the wrapped box that she was going to pass off as a wedding gift. She smiled, as she looked at herself one last time in the mirror. Tonight I will have Vincent back. She thought to herself. She then left her loft and headed for the tunnel entrance that she used.

Back in the tunnels the ladies were almost ready. "Oh Cath you look beautiful." Nancy told her friend. Catherine smiled brightly. "Thanks Nance I could not have done any of this with out all of you." She told the women. "Cath you are home with Vincent and your son where you should be." Jenny told her. "We would not be anywhere else today." She added. Suddenly Mary entered the chamber with a very happy baby Jacob in her arms. "I thought you would like to spend some time with this little boy." Mary commented. Catherine smiled and rose. "Oh yes I would love that." She stated as she took the baby from the older woman. "And how is my baby today?" Catherine asked Jacob. He smiled happily and babbled. Everyone in the chamber laughed. "Cathy we are going to go make sure everything is ready in the great hall." Nancy told her. "We will be back for you in twenty minutes sharp." Jenny commented smiling. Catherine nodded her head. "Alright I will be waiting." She remarked. Then the women left Catherine alone in the chamber with Jacob. "So my baby are you ready for mommy and daddy to get married?" Catherine asked as she sat down with him. "Well I am sure ready I love your daddy so much and I cannot wait to be his wife." Catherine crooned.

As this was happening Diana entered the tunnels. She looked around and found that none of the sentries were on duty because of the wedding. She smiled as she began walking toward the hub. She walked until she came to a tunnel that turned out of the main hub. She saw that the only chamber there had a light on inside. She quietly turned and walked down the side tunnel. She smiled when she heard Catherine singing to Jacob. Diana quietly entered the chamber and saw Catherine. "So why are you all dressed up?" She asked. Catherine suddenly turned around from the crib. "What are you doing here?" She yelled. Diana smiled maniacally and pulled her gun out of her pocket. "I am here to make sure that you and Jacob do not make it to the wedding." She told Catherine. "I will go with you just leave my baby alone." Catherine begged. Diana thought for a moment. "Alright Miss Chandler we will leave him here." Diana told her. "Now let's go!" She yelled. Catherine laid Jacob in his crib and moved toward the chamber entrance. "Hold it a moment." Diana told her. Then Diana took off her bracelet and put it in Jacob's fist. "So that Vincent knows who is responsible for this." She stated. Then they left the chamber.

A little while later Mary, Jamie, Nancy and Jenny approached the chamber. They were horrified when they heard Jacob crying uncontrollably. They ran inside to see what was the matter. "Cathy what is it?" Nancy asked. Then they noticed that Jacob was alone in the chamber. "Where is Cathy?" Jenny asked as Nancy calmed Jacob. Nancy shook her head. "I am not sure but we have to take Jacob to Vincent." She stated. Mary then turned to Jamie. "Child run and tell Pascal to place an all quiet on the pipes." Jamie nodded then ran from the chamber. "Come on ladies we must go to Vincent." Mary told them. Then they left the chamber.

Diana and Catherine moved through the tunnels. Catherine noticed that instead of farther into the tunnels they were heading above. "Where are we going?" She asked. Diana smiled. "I thought you would like to see your old apartment for one last time." Catherine began to cry. "Please don't do this to us." She begged. "You say you love Vincent then how could you put him and Jacob through this pain once again?" She asked. Diana scowled at her. "This whole situation is your fault Catherine." She stated. "If you had stayed away you would be alive tomorrow." She told her. "Diana I can help you if you let me." Catherine told her. Diana suddenly spun around to face her. "How dare you come back and take the man I love then offer to help me!" She growled. "Now let's go before your absence is common knowledge." Then she pushed Catherine forward. Catherine slowly climbed the ladder leading to the street above.

A few moments later the women entered the groom's preparation chamber. Vincent whirled around when he heard Jacob crying. "What is the matter?" He asked taking his son to soothe him. "Vincent we went to Catherine's chamber to get her and she was gone." Mary told him. "What do you mean she was gone?" Father asked. Nancy turned to him. "Father she was just gone but she left Jacob in his crib and we found him crying uncontrollably." She stated. "And I we found this in his fist." Jenny told them as she held out the bracelet. Vincent handed Jacob to Devin then took the bracelet from her. He looked at it intently then looked up. "This is Diana's bracelet." He stated angrily. "Are you sure?" Charles asked. Vincent nodded. "Yes she always wore it when I saw her." Vincent told him. "Where would she take Catherine?" Father asked. Vincent shook his head. "I am not sure because I never showed her the way around the tunnels like I had with Catherine they would get very lost if they wandered around."

Suddenly everyone saw a far away look come across Vincent's face. "Vincent what is it?" Joe asked. Vincent did not answer for a few seconds. Then he suddenly smiled. "I feel her again." He whispered. Everyone looked at him. "Do you mean the bond?" Devin asked. Vincent nodded. "Yes it just flared back up." He stated. Then suddenly Vincent handed Jacob to Mary again. "I know where they are!" he exclaimed. Then he ran from the chamber. "We will follow him." Devin announced. With that Charles, Devin, and Joe ran from the chamber. "Oh I hope they find her in time." Jenny cried. Father put his arm around her. "We have to believe they will." He whispered. "Now let's go tell everyone what has happened." Then they left the chamber.

While this was happening Diana unlocked the door to Catherine's old apartment. She opened the door and pushed Catherine inside. Then she quickly closed the door again and locked it. "We should not be here." Catherine told her. Diana pushed her toward the new sofa and forced her to sit. "Do not worry Cathy we will not be disturbed I rented this apartment myself." Diana stated. Catherine was shocked. "You truly wanted to take over every part of my life didn't you?" Catherine asked. Diana sat down on the sofa next to her. "Miss Chandler you had the type of life that I always wanted and now I will be able to have that life." She stated. Then she rose to her feet. "I will go fix us some tea." She commented. "Do not move while I am gone." She ordered. Catherine nodded in agreement. "Alright I will not move." Catherine agreed. Diana smiled and left the room.

A few moments later Catherine noticed a shadow pass on the balcony. She smiled as she felt that Vincent was here to rescue her. "I know you are here my love I feel you." Catherine whispered. Vincent watched from out on the balcony. Joe, Devin and Charles had caught up to him and they had stated that they would go up to the apartment and try to get Diana to surrender. Suddenly Vincent heard a loud banging on the front door. He watched as Diana ran into the living room. She grabbed Catherine and pulled her to the door. "Who is there?" Diana asked through the door. "Diana it's Joe we need to talk." Diana cracked the door slightly. "No way Joe I am not giving up." She stated. "We only want Catherine." Charles told her. "Who are you I saw you below?" Diana asked. Charles slowly reached into his pocket. "I am Agent Charles Wright with the FBI I brought Catherine home to Vincent." He stated. Diana released her hold on Catherine. "Come in here now!" Diana told Charles as she opened the door. "I will but first release Cathy." Charles told her. Diana shook her head. "No that is not an option." She stated. Vincent was watching this from the balcony. He knew that he had to make his move now. He crashed through the balcony doors with a loud roar. Diana was so distracted by this that Devin and Joe were able to get into the apartment. "I will kill you Vincent!" Diana screamed as she pointed the gun at him. He continued to approach her growling.

Catherine suddenly grabbed the gun and was able to get it away from her. Charles lunged forward and grabbed Diana wrestling her to the ground. "Vincent you and Cathy get out of here!" Joe yelled. Catherine turned and looked at Vincent. "I will meet you at the drainage tunnel." She told him. Vincent nodded then turned and was gone back through the balcony doors. "Cathy I will go with you." Devin told her. She watched as they tied up Diana. "Alright Devin let's go now." She commented. As they were about to exit the apartment Diana looked up. "He will never truly be yours again." She commented. Catherine turned and looked at her. "Miss Bennett that is where you are wrong he has always been mine." With that Devin put his arm around Catherine and led her from the apartment.

A little while later they approached the drainage tunnel. They entered the tunnel and walked a few feet when Catherine saw Vincent. He moved out of the shadows toward her. Devin smiled and silently opened the secret door then he entered the tunnels. Once he was gone Catherine let her defenses down. She sobbed as she ran into Vincent's arms. "Oh God Vincent I was so frightened that I would never be in your arms again." She cried. Vincent held her close and kissed her temple. "I was just as frightened of that." He whispered. Then Catherine looked up at him. "Is Jacob alright?" She asked. Vincent smiled. "Yes he is fine my love." He told her. "I felt horrible for leaving him but I could not let Diana take him with us." She told him. Vincent nodded. "Yes Mary and the others found him and brought him to me when they found out that you were gone." He commented. "Jenny found Diana's bracelet and showed it to me that is how I knew she was behind this." He remarked. Catherine nodded and smiled. "Yes she was sloppy when she left that bracelet." Vincent nodded and pulled her against him again. "Then I started feeling our bond that is how I found you." He stated. Catherine smiled and moved back in his arms. "I know the bond seems to be stronger in me also I felt your presence on the balcony." She commented. Vincent turned suddenly. "Now my love let's go see our son." He remarked. Catherine smiled and simply nodded.

As they walked toward Father's chamber they heard happy voices inside the chamber. "Where are they?" Jenny asked excitedly. Vincent smiled down at Catherine when they entered the chamber. "We are here Jen." Catherine told her. Jenny and Nancy smiled and rose. "Cath we were so worried about you." Nancy told her as they hugged. "I know but I am fine now." Catherine assured them. Then Catherine hugged Father and Mary. "Catherine are you hurt?" Father asked. Catherine smiled lovingly as Vincent put his arm around her. "No Father I am fine." She answered. "Well we are happy about that." Mary told her.

A little while later Joe and Charles entered the chamber. "So did everything go alright?" Catherine asked. Joe smiled and nodded. "Yeah Cathy she is being charged with kidnapping and unlawful imprisonment." He stated. Catherine smiled. "Well I am glad that she will be punished." She commented. "Did she mention Vincent?" Father asked worried. Charles smiled and shook his head. "No Father she didn't." he commented. "So now what?" Joe asked. Catherine looked at him strangely. "We still have a wedding to hold." She told him. Everyone looked at her unsure. "Catherine we can hold the wedding in a few days." Vincent told her. She smiled and took his hand. "No Vincent I don't want to wait another day especially after all this." She commented. Vincent smiled and nodded. "Well then Father we best let everyone know that we are still holding the wedding." Vincent remarked. Father smiled and looked at Mary. "That will not be a problem because we thought that Catherine might want to proceed so everyone is still here." Father remarked as he rose. "Shall we all retire to our places?" he asked. Catherine smiled and rose. "I will see you in a few minutes." She told Vincent. Then just as she was about to walk away he grabbed her and kissed her. "I love you Catherine." He whispered. She smiled and breathed heavily. "And I adore you." She answered. "Come on you two save it for after the wedding." Devin teased. Then they all left Father's chamber.

About fifteen minutes later the music in the great hall started. Vincent, Father and Devin entered and walked to the front of the hall. Then the music changed. Vincent turned and watched as Nancy made her way down the steps into the hall. She smiled as she approached the men. Vincent smiled at her and slightly nodded. Next, Jenny came down the steps. She smiled at Joe as she passed him. Then she smiled at Vincent. Finally, Peter and Catherine entered the great hall. A big gasp escaped everyone as they saw her for the first time. Vincent was totally taken back by her beauty at that moment. Peter smiled as he and Catherine approached Vincent. He then placed Catherine's hand in Vincent's. "I give you to your future husband just as I handed you to your parents the day you were born." Peter told Catherine. She smiled lovingly. Then Peter leaned forward and kissed her cheek.

Catherine and Vincent turned toward Father. "We have come here today to witness the joining of Vincent and Catherine." Father began. "Their love has gone through many trials and tribulations but it has come full circle today." He continued. "Now I believe that Vincent and Catherine have prepared their own vows." Father then turned and nodded toward Vincent. Vincent smiled and turned to face Catherine. "Catherine I have loved you from the first night I found you in the park. You have blessed my life with more love and happiness than I can ever express. We have overcome so many obstacles to arrive here to this day. One blessing that you have bestowed on me was the gift of our beautiful son Jacob. He was something that I never let myself dream of then I found out that I was a father. Now we are together once again and I intend to love and protect you for the rest of my life. Catherine I vow that I will be here for you and that you will always know how much I love you. This is my solemn vow.

After he was done Vincent turned back toward Father. Father smiled then looked at Catherine. He nodded and smiled. She smiled in return and turned to face Vincent. Then she began to speak. "Vincent you have been my life from the first time I heard your beautiful voice. Our bond, which has magically been restored, has always meant so much to me. I have always loved the fact that you could feel everything that I felt. It made me feel very loved and protected. Vincent I promise to love you and protect you for the rest of our lives. And I promise that our children will always know just how much their parents love each other. This is my solemn vow to you.

Once she was done Catherine turned and faced Father once again. "Vincent do you have a ring for Catherine?" Father asked. Vincent smiled and nodded. He then turned toward Devin. Retrieving the ring he gently placed it on her ring finger. "Catherine this ring is a token of my love and deep devotion." He stated. Then as she began to withdraw her hand from his he held it tighter. "I also have something else for you." He announced. With those words he removed something from the pouch around his neck. He held out her crystal necklace and smiled. Catherine gasped when she saw the necklace. "I gave this to you on our first anniversary and now I give it back to you." He stated as he put it around her neck. Catherine could not fight the tears any longer. They flowed down her cheeks as she smiled at Vincent.

Father smiled then began to speak again. "Catherine do you have a ring for Vincent?" He asked. Catherine smiled and nodded. She then turned to Nancy and took the ring from her. "Vincent this ring is a token of my love and devotion to you." Catherine told him. She lifted his hand and gently kissed the ring that she had just placed there. Once again Father began to speak. "As you have exchanged vows and also exchanged rings I declare that your lives are now permanently and forever joined together as one." Father smiled happily as he prepared to say the final words of the ceremony. "Now Vincent you may kiss your bride." He told him. Vincent smiled and turned to once again face Catherine. She smiled up at him lovingly as he moved slightly toward her. Then very gently he leaned forward and kissed her. The kiss was one of great love and passion. The crowd of onlookers cheered and clapped as they kissed.

After they parted everyone moved forward to congratulate the couple. Mary smiled as she placed Jacob in his mother's arms. She kissed his softhead as Vincent led them to their table. Vincent pulled out her chair and Catherine sat down. "I am so happy." She told Vincent. He smiled and gently kissed her once again. "I am also truly happy my life has never been so full." He stated. Mary approached a little while later. "Can I take this little one so that you two can eat?" She asked. Catherine smiled and handed the baby to her. "Thank you Mary." Vincent remarked. "Nonsense I love caring for my grandson." She commented. Then she moved on across the great hall.

After they had eaten the musicians began to play again. "May I have this dance my lovely wife?" Vincent asked as he rose. Catherine smiled lovingly. "Of course my husband." She responded. They walked to the dance floor and Catherine moved into Vincent's arms. They were soon waltzing around the floor. Everyone watched for a while then they also began to dance.

A little while later everyone gasped as William wheeled in the wedding cake. It was a three-layer cake with white icing and red roses cascading down the sides. Vincent and Catherine moved forward and together cut the first slice. Catherine smiled as Vincent picked up a piece and fed her. Then Catherine returned the action. Everyone smiled and clapped. After the cake was handed out Devin rose from his chair. "May I have everyone's attention?" He asked. Everyone stopped talking and turned their attention to him. "Being best man it is my job to propose the first toast to the new couple." He stated. Then he turned and looked at Vincent and Catherine. "I have seen your relationship grow and blossom into an all consuming love." He started. "Your relationship is a testament to the beauty of true love. And it is also an example to all of us as to the power of the heart. I have seen the two of you go through so much pain that it was painful to watch but now that is all in the past. May your marriage be filled with many years of love and passion." Devin concluded. "To Vincent and Catherine!" He announced aloud. "To Vincent and Catherine!" Everyone repeated.

Later in the evening as the reception began to calm down Vincent leaned over and whispered in Catherine's ear. "Do you think we could get away now?" he asked. Catherine smiled up at him lovingly. "I don't see why not." She commented. Vincent then rose and helped her to her feet. They moved toward Father. "Father we are going." Vincent told him. Father smiled. "Of course you two go on." He told them. They both kissed and hugged Father then they moved toward Mary. "Mary we are leaving now." Catherine whispered. Mary smiled and handed Jacob to his mother. "You be a good boy for your grandparents." She whispered. "Daddy and I love you very much." She then handed him to Vincent who gently kissed him. Mary then stepped forward and took him back into her arms. Finally Vincent took Catherine's hand and they ran from the great hall as everyone cheered and applauded.

When they reached the main hub Vincent stopped. "Catherine I have a special surprise for you." He told her. She put her arms around his waist. "And what is this surprise?" She asked. Vincent smiled and picked her up. "You will see in a few moments." He whispered. Then without another word he captured her lips in a passionate kiss. As they parted Vincent began to run. Catherine buried her face in his neck and gently kissed his skin. "Catherine if you continue to do that I may drop you." He whispered. She lifted her head and smiled slyly. "Then I suggest you hurry." She said almost in a purr. Vincent smiled as he began to run faster.

A while later they reached their destination. "Catherine close your eyes." He directed as he put her down on her feet. Catherine smiled as she did as he asked. Vincent took her hands and led her into the chamber. Once they were inside Vincent moved around behind Catherine. "Now open your eyes." He whispered. Catherine opened her eyes and gasped. "Oh Vincent this is beautiful!" She exclaimed. Vincent wrapped his arms around her. "Not as beautiful as you my wife." He whispered. Then he began to kiss her neck. Catherine moaned as she leaned against him. "Oh Vincent." She moaned. Vincent smiled as he began to unbutton her wedding dress. "This is a beautiful dress Catherine." He whispered huskily. "Yes my mother had exquisite taste." She answered. Vincent smiled and continued his task. Soon Catherine's wedding attire was gone. Vincent turned her toward him and kissed her again. Catherine then began to remove his wedding clothes.

Once she was done Vincent gathered her in his arms and carried her to the bed. He lay her down and quickly climbed in beside her. Their loving that night was very slow and passionate. Catherine and Vincent learned even more about one another that night. Then they fell asleep dreaming of the new future that awaited them.