Dancing in the Light

Book Series: Keane Family Saga  

Publishing Date: 2006

Author: Anita Stansfield

Publisher: Covenant Communications, Inc.

Category: LDS Contemporary Romance

Point of View: Third Person Limited- Wade Morrison

Chapter Count: 21

Page Count: 423

For Nathan, my big brother, who chose door number three. I love you and miss you.

Chapter 1

Salt Lake City, Utah

     Wade Morrison, his wife Elena and their newborn baby girl (whom they named Rebecca) live with Alex Keane, Wade's half-brother, and his ideal family in a 150 year old house that once belonged to Alex's great-great grandfather. Wade enters and Alex greets him asking after Elena and the new baby back at the hospital where Wade just returned. Wade reports it went like clockwork...except for one little annoying problem that has been troubling Wade since Elena sat him down and gave him the bad news back when they were courting. As he explains to Alex:

     Despite being in perfect health, ever since she was a youth, good girl Elena always had this strong impression from the spirit that her time on earth would be short, that she would die young (cue the Billy Joel song). Wade married her anyway. Since Elena didn't do everyone a favor and die in childbirth today, like Wade was anticipating, he's back to stressing out over just how much time he has left with his precious Elena. Alex assures Wade, when it does happen, both he and God will be with him. Wade thanks him and excuses himself to go to bed.

    And because this is what real men do in an Anita Stansfield novel, Wade goes to his room and has a good cry.

    A few days pass. Elena returns from the hospital, Wade meets up with an old friend who never heard the story of Wade's true parentage and, just in case the reader hasn't either, Wade wastes a few pages telling him. Wade spends some quality time with eight-year-old Barrett, his favorite cancer-surviving nephew with whom he shares a deep bond since it was Wade's bone marrow transplant that saved Barrett's life. Entering the room, he kisses Elena who is in bed nursing the baby. Elena tucks Rebecca into her bassinet and they all retire to bed.

   Lying in each other's arms, Elena laughs softly declaring she is the happiest woman in the world. Wade agrees. Life is complete.

   Very early in the a.m., Wade is startled awake by a crying baby while Elena is completely motionless, her body cold. She is dead.

   Wade lets out a bloodcurdling scream.

Chapter 2

    Alex comes tearing into the room. Good thing he's an ER doctor as his medical training kicks in. The necessary phone calls are made including one to Neil Keane, Wade and Alex's biological father. Brad and Marilyn (Wade's legal father and biological mother) also arrive to help support and comfort Wade who is having a breakdown.

   Jane, Alex's wife who is also nursing her own new arrival, takes charge of caring for Rebecca. Wade calms down enough to return to bed and get a little more sleep while the entire family rallies around, cleaning up this latest disaster.

   Later, Wade talks to Neil who drives him to the mortuary so Wade can make arrangments for the burial and funeral. He's not very excited about it.

Chapter 3

    Turns out Elena died of a cerebral hemorrhage. She went peacefully, no pain, no warning, nothing anyone could've done. While Wade finds some peace in this he still has a life to live. He talks with Barrett who cries with his Uncle Wade who is grateful this young boy is so close to the spirit since his ordeal took him to the other side of the veil, as he tells Wade, Aunt Elena is in a better place. He KNOWS. He's BEEN there. Wade tells Alex and both men marvel.

   Wade grieves some more, gets through the funeral and wonders if he'll ever get past this.

Chapter 4

     Wade talks and cries with Neil, settles into life at Alex's house and begins another semester of school at the U in preparation to becoming a doctor. Despite Rebecca having plenty of caregivers, Wade decides he should be the one to take Rebecca in for her two month checkup and immunizations. Even if he is the only single father in a waiting room full of mothers and their kids.

   The LPN who does the checkup is named Laura. She has long wavy dark blonde hair and a quirk for wearing kid themed colorful scrubs and shoes which means she really enjoys her job and the little ones she gets to work with. Wade appreciates her tender, loving, nurturing care with his motherless daughter and is silently grateful.

   Laura casually comments how they don't see many single dads here at the clinic, is Mom working? Wade swallows hard and admits the sad sad reality of his new life. Laura gasps while tears tumble down Wade face.

   As she's handing him tissues, Wade notices Laura is wearing a wedding ring.

    DANG IT!!!

  He says nothing while Laura recognizes Wade's CTR ring adding she's LDS too.

   DOUBLE DANG IT!!!!

   Back home, Wade nearly has a panic attack when he realizes Rebecca's favorite blanket is missing. Turns out he left it at the doctor's office. Laura is happy to drop it off for him and they have a nice chat over the threshold about this beautiful old home and Wade's connection to it. Laura again expresses her empathy over Wade's loss and asks if there's anything she can do?

   Since Wade will continue to believe Laura is married for many many more chapters to come, no, sorry Laura, there's nothing you can do for our poor hero. See you at the next checkup.

Chapter 5

     After many hints and blind date suggestions from well meaning ward members, Wade groans and goes online to start perusing the LDS dating websites. As he admits to Alex, while creating his profile, Elena did mention once or twice that she wanted him to marry again after she was gone. Besides, their future children would need a mother.

    Christmas comes and goes, Wade's younger brother Brian leaves on a mission and Rebecca has another checkup at the clinic. This time Laura is wearing Wizard of Oz-themed scrubs complete with glittery red shoes. She is delighted to see them. They chat pleasantly. Wade shares Barrett's amazing battle with cancer. Laura chokes up over the story, finishes the checkup and they part ways again. Wade makes sure to remember the blanket this time.

    Wade comes home after bravely attending a mid-singles dance which was so pathetic he had to leave. He goes online to check his inbox and has much better luck with the latest profile suggestions. A dark haired woman named Marina appears to be everything Wade is looking for in an eternal companion: brilliant smile, well-rounded character, works for a travel agency in downtown Salt Lake, loves the outdoors, teaches the youth in Sunday School and likes to spend her after-work hours at the Crossroads Mall food court reading a good book. They exchange a few emails. Wade informs her he's a widower with a baby daughter. Marina suggests they get together sometime to meet IRL.

Chapter 6

    Already infatuated by this incredible woman, Wade impulsively decides to pack up Rebecca and track Marina down at the mall food court. He introduces himself and he and Marina end up spending the rest of the day together. 

   Still on the date with Marina and his daughter, Wade's cell phone rings. Neil needs help with a flat tire. Marina doesn't mind at all tagging along. Neil is surprised and impressed with Marina who is puzzled at the different last names. Wade explains later and, to his utter relief, Marina is perfectly accepting of the unusual circumstances of his parentage.

   They proceed to spend the next several months seeing each other. Wade has never been so happy in his life. He just KNOWS he's found his soulmate. Except Rebecca keeps coming down with colds and earaches requiring more than one trip to the clinic where he's forced to see and interact with the untouchable (MARRIED!) Laura. 

   By the end of the chapter, Wade presents Marina with an engagement ring. Marina squeals her acceptance. Wade isn't moving too fast, is he?

Chapter 7

    To celebrate Rebecca's first birthday, the family throws a big party which will include Marina's family so the two clans can meet. But for some reason they don't show. Marina shrugs, embarrassed, while Wade recalls the few times he has gotten together with Marina's family, there was a lot of dysfunctional vibes led by Marina's overcompensating mother, Julia (the bride at every wedding, corpse at every funeral type of woman).

    He takes Rebecca in for another checkup, deliriously happy to inform Laura he's getting married next week. A brief look of disappointment crosses Laura's face and is gone so fast Wade decides he only imagined it. Laura congratulates him and they part ways again.

    When the two families finally do get together, Wade is shocked and surprised at Julia's condescending attitude when she learns Wade has TWO fathers because good Mormon families don't have affairs! Marina and Wade excuse themselves to discuss this new development in their relationship as Marina defends her mother's attitude while Wade is already having second thoughts about this wedding.

    As Julia makes it clear she has no intention of attending a temple sealing, (being in the same room with such people is just asking too much!) Marina and Wade have another talk. This means Marina can't marry Wade unless he explains to his family why only some of them won't be welcome in the temple sealing room. The bride can't be married without her mother present and mother comes first. Appalled, Wade refuses. Choking back her emotion, Marina excuses herself.

   With the wedding in two days Wade talks to Alex again about his feelings and finally comes to his senses. If Marina can't put their marriage first instead of her parents, then the wedding is off. He takes back the ring. Marina stares at him in shock as Wade leaves the room.

Chapter 8

   Ignoring the near constant ring of the landline telephone, Wade stays in bed, letting Alex and Jane make his excuses to Marina. They completely understand and support Wade's decision to call off the wedding.

   Declaring he needs (another) good cry, Wade locks himself in the bathroom and drowns himself in the shower.

    Realizing he has several days off and no honeymoon trip to take, Alex and Jane declare they are ALL taking a family vacation. Right now. Everybody pack your bags and get in the car! Somehow, Alex got the days off, the hotel rooms arranged and the itinerary in place: Las Vegas, California, Disneyland, San Diego, Sea World, the Zoo (um, it's the middle of summer do they really expect to do all these attractions in one week?)

    They listen to Collective Soul in the car (Finally! Some decent music in an Anita Stansfield novel!) "December" and "Where the River Flows" but instead of head banging to the tune, Wade sheds a few tears over the poignancy of these soul moving lyrics.

    Wade is such a loser.

    January arrives and Rebecca turns 18 months. Wade takes her in for her checkup where Laura is wearing Mickey Mouse ears and matching scrubs. She makes Rebecca giggle during the exam, letting her try on the ears while Wade feels like his heart is going to break because Laura is A MARRIED WOMAN, DANG IT!! To drive the knife in further, Laura asks after the new Mrs. Morrison. Wade sadly informs her he called off the wedding and leaves it at that.

   Not many days later, Wade is asked to come over to Brad and Marilyn's house for more Anita Stansfield drama. Neil requests Alex come too. The two men need to be here because, tragically,  Marilyn has...wait for it....breast cancer. She's already scheduled for surgery.

    And, no, Wade does not handle the news well. Good thing Alex is driving the car home.

Chapter 9

    Of course it gets worse. Wade is called over to the house where a bed ridden Marilyn announces, with the mastectomy out of the way, she's not going through with the chemo and treatments. She just wants to die. Neil leads a distraught Wade out of the room so he can show him something. Turns out Marilyn's dramatics is due to an incident that occurred in church several weeks prior to her diagnosis when Marilyn taught a Relief Society lesson on eternal marriage in which she shared her story of adultery: overcoming sin, finding forgiveness and how that strengthened her marriage to Neil along with her testimony of the gospel.
Apparently, an anonymous woman in the ward was not impressed by the lesson and sent Marilyn a letter expressing her self-righteous feelings along with her own judgement on Marilyn's eternal salvation. 

    Wade groans, rants a bit and leaves to share this latest issue with Alex. He also tells Neil and Roxanne.
    Brad reports to Wade later that Roxanne paid her own visit to Marilyn bringing her a nice gift and spending a good hour having a woman to woman talk after which Marilyn consented to the cancer treatments. Another miracle.

   One night, while doing his ER rounds, Alex is called into an examination room to find Marilyn. She's here, not because of cancer side effects but her gall bladder, as it turns out, needs to be removed. It's a risky surgery. Just one more pickle for Wade's "crap sandwich" that is this entire novel. He finds a quiet corner and has (yet another) good cry.

Chapter 10

    Marilyn gets worse. Fearing they might be losing her, Brad calls Wade who comes over to the hospital. They have a long talk where Brad expresses his admiration for Neil Keane, who is stopping by later, the man who taught Brad what happens when a man doesn't treat his wife the way she deserves. Both cry manly tears before going downstairs to the hospital cafeteria to grab a bite to eat. Back in the hallway, outside Marilyn's room, Neil arrives and Brad makes a graceful exit so father and son can talk to Marilyn. For Neil, this is only the second time he's seen the mother of his illegitimate son but the first time they've really had a chance to talk since before Wade was born. Wade observes Neil and Marilyn who reminisce about the day Marilyn left him. She didn't know at the time that she was pregnant, as she relates to Neil and Wade, she just woke up that morning with the strong impression that someone from the other side of the veil (Wade) was kicking her, telling her it was time to go back to her penitent husband and the family responsibilities awaiting her. She did. Now they all understand.

    Neil and Wade exit so both men can have a good cry. This isn't getting old, is it?

Chapter 11

   Wade and Neil talk again for several pages outside Marilyn's hospital room until Brad returns with two of  Wade's siblings so they can all talk some more about the past, blended families, family dysfunction, forgiveness and repentance. Neil and Brad say it again, for Wade's sake-WE HAVE NO REGRETS! Wade finds Alex in the ER so they can grab dinner at the cafeteria and so poor Alex can see Wade blubber some more. Wade is telling Alex all about this latest miracle, watering his plate with his tears when, suddenly, Laura interrupts them. Did something happen to Rebecca? Wade reassures her everything is fine. Laura exits, but now Alex knows who Laura is and he's impressed-what a woman! Wade loses it. He's turning into his father, lusting after a married woman! He groans while Alex just tells him to buck up and start dating other women again to get his mind off her. That shuts Wade up.

Chapter 12

    Wade and Marilyn rehash the old adultery issue. Marilyn tells Wade about a special box back at the house she's been saving for him all these years. Wade finds and opens the box later that day, alone. The box is filled with photo albums, keepsakes and a letter telling Wade who his real father is and to try and find him, if possible. Wade calls Neil. He comes right over so they can cry and pour over the contents of the box together. 

    Wade stays busy over the next few weeks but he's sooo lonely. Marilyn makes a miraculous recovery so by the following fast Sunday, she is feeling well enough to stand and bear her testimony basically letting the anonymous woman in the congregation know that she has forgiven her that upsetting letter she received and is now completely at peace with her past sins. Oh, and by the way, she's been fighting cancer all this time. Wade just sits and marvels at this amazing woman he calls Mother.

    Then, one day, Wade checks the latest dating profile suggestions and stops cold. Laura posted a profile?! But that would mean....She's not married anymore! The Red Sea has parted for Wade. Taking his cue from You've Got Mail, Wade decides to send Laura an email expressing his interest in getting to know her better but signing it "Barrett's Uncle" to hide his identity. Why he would do this is beyond me.

Chapter 13

     Laura responds that same day. Several days pass exchanging emails. Marina calls but Wade will never take her back. He hangs up on her and goes back to composing another "Barrett's Uncle" email to Laura, because Wade is creepy like that. He talks to Alex and Jane requesting dance lessons (lest the reader forget this book has "Dancing" in the title yet so far everyone's been too busy weeping to find time for dancing) and tags along with them to the nearest LDS church cultural hall where the majority of the time is spent with Wade watching Alex and Jane demonstrate various dances and listening to them reminisce about how they met. (Wade doesn't feel like a third wheel at all!) 

    Many days pass with more emails between Laura and "Barrett's Uncle" who confides he's taking Arthur Murray so when they meet IRL he can show her a good time. Laura can't wait.

    Feeling almost giddy, Wade takes Rebecca to the clinic with the specific request Laura be the one to see them. He can hardly keep his secret from Laura who is wearing pink pig-themed scrubs and pink shoes today with a plastic pig figure hanging from her stethoscope. When she asks the purpose for their visit today, Wade tells her he only made this appointment as an excuse to ask her out. Laura is astonished, she doesn't even know his first name (It's Wade!!!) Laura laughs and accepts the date.
    In the car, Wade sings along with the radio playing one of his favorite Collective Soul songs, "Better Now," and for once he doesn't cry.
    Wade might not be crying but back at the clinic, for the first time in this novel, we get another POV-Laura's-who smiles at the thought she has a date before bursting into tears because it's been so long since any man noticed her. She locks herself in an empty exam room, has a good cry, then she can smile again. She is still on the clock, after all.
   On the date (sans Rebecca who is home with a babysitter) at the nice restaurant, Wade and Laura discuss many topics. Wade tells her how Elena died and how Elena and her parents had the foresight to sign Elena up at a young age for the best life insurance policy she could get so Wade would be taken care of. Looking at Laura across the table, Wade feels truly alive for the first time since Elena's death.

Chapter 14

     The dinner date continues. As their meals are set before them, we finally learn Laura's last name (Dove) whatever her married name was is never revealed but the jerk she married was named Randall. They were married in the temple but after Randall's true nature was revealed, the marriage was quickly annulled. She's been single these last two years. The same amount of time Wade has been a widower with his nearly two year old daughter.
    Wade: *headdesk!!*
    Laura also informs him she already had the sealing cancelled (impossible as a woman can't request a temple sealing cancellation until she has another man waiting in the wings to be sealed to!) Wade tells her why he called off his wedding to Marina-two days before the event. Both discover they share many common interests, including a love of the Salt Lake valley with the desire to spend the rest of their lives here. 
   POV begins shifting between Wade and Laura with no indication between the paragraphs making for poor editing. Wade and Laura continue to talk like they've known each other forever. Outside the restaurant, they walk and Wade kisses her. Laura responds eagerly and they proceed to DTF (define the relationship). Just in case anyone is wondering, both have strong convictions about the ABSOLUTE WRONGNESS of premarital sex (DUH!) and waste several paragraphs discussing it. With that out of the way, Laura reveals what the LDS dating scene has been like for a single woman such as herself and her friends as they discovered: most single, LDS men will test their date asking how she feels about "going all the way" on the first date. If she clutches her pearls, he pretends to share her feelings but usually ends up dumping her and moving on. If she's okay with it then he'll proceed to take advantage of her, pushing more and more with every date until she breaks up with him.
    Wade agrees, this behavior is deplorable, and he would never take advantage of her like that. Laura believes him. He walks Laura to her front door, gives her a quick peck on the cheek, and they say goodnight-after Wade asks for her phone number.
    Inside, Laura leans against her front door and sighs. She is in love!
    That's when she sees her computer and remembers she has an email reply to compose and send to "Barrett's Uncle" and falls to her knees in ironic prayer. She can't be in love with two men! Heaven help her!

Chapter 15

     Entering the house, Wade declares to Alex and Jane he is in love and ready to marry Laura! Not wanting to waste any time, he goes upstairs and calls Laura so they can spend several pages talking about Laura's friends, how they all grew up in dysfunctional LDS families and went on to suffer troubled marriages of domestic abuse-one best friend died thanks to hubby's treatment. Another committed suicide. Rochelle was engaged but when he turned out to be another jerk, she got so bitter, she left the church and is currently the last friend from her old group still alive. They talk frequently so Rochelle can fill Laura's head with doubts that wickedness (casual sex) really is happiness. Does Laura have any issues? 
    Wait till the next book. 
    Wade is glad to hear the coping strategies Laura has been using all these years to stay strong in the gospel and maintain a healthy psychological state of mind-prayer, scripture study, ice cream and having the remote all to oneself can really make up for a bad annulled marriage. Wade waits patiently for Laura, who cries softly over the phone, to compose herself.  He assures her he will always be there for her. He reminds her they made a second date for Saturday. Comforted by that thought, Laura is able to hang up.
     In the middle of the night, Wade wakes up in a panic. "Barrett's Uncle" is still communicating with Laura who doesn't know! He checks his computer inbox and bursts into another round of sobs as he reads Laura's latest email, "I've met someone so...goodbye!" Just off his last rotation, Alex finds him, still sobbing and is a little annoyed Wade would deceive such a nice woman as Laura. He'd better invite her over to the house sometime and come clean. Wade agrees, finally going back to bed around four in the morning. 
   Because Wade isn't creepy at all, he stops by Laura's house just a few hours later (she is dressed in work scrubs, Care Bears, just about to leave for her shift) to give her a rose and a hug wishing her a good day. Laura asks him over tonight so she can cook dinner for him. In the car, Wade laughs out loud, everything in his life is going his way. He's never been so happy!

Chapter 16

     At the clinic Laura marvels over how much better life is when a woman has a man to share it with. A dozen red roses show up later that morning. While all her female colleagues ooh and ah, Laura has to excuse herself to the ladies room so she can lock herself in a stall and sob with happiness.
    Wade shows up later that day to talk to her in an empty exam room so he can confesses he's "Barrett's Uncle." Laura presses a hand over her mouth before admitting her relief. 
      I wanted it to be you. I wanted it to be you so badly.
     Since they are still on for dinner tonight, Laura makes a quick stop by the grocery store. When the doorbell rings, Wade is standing on the threshold with a carton of gourmet chocolate ice cream. She invites him in. He is quick to declare his undying love for her which makes Laura cry.
   Over dinner, Laura tells him about growing up in Las Vegas in her semi-active LDS family while Wade's upbringing was much more positive, aside from the fact that (might as well get it out of the way!) he was born out-of-wedlock.
   As if we haven't already guessed it by now, Laura admits to Wade she's struggled her whole adult life with depression. Wade assures her it's nothing they can't handle.
    At least until the next book.
    Looking at her CD collection, Wade picks out Collective Soul and urges Laura into a dance. They move to "Better Now" and "She Gathers Rain" (not the most dance-able songs). Laura can't believe how happy she is-this man who makes her life better with every passing hour.

Chapter 17

     After their dance, Wade and Laura stuff themselves with ice cream before Laura breaks out all her personal journals and makes Wade (and the reader) read all the entries in which she pours out her heart, her growing infatuation over this incredible, widowed, nameless man who keeps coming to the clinic with this adorable child, "He cries all the time! It's soooo romantic!" but then "OH NOs! He's MET SOMEONE and I'm spiraling down into my dark place now. Bye!"
    Wade slams the journal shut and takes Laura into his arms. For once nobody is crying but each are equally relieved they finally found each other. They make plans for their next date and Wade takes his leave.
   With Rebecca in tow, Wade and Laura stroll the mall (the one with the indoor carousel) do a little shopping, eat lunch in the food court, buy Rebecca presents and talk about everything under the sun. Wade is definitely in love. For Laura the feeling is mutual.

Chapter 18

     Wade comes over with Rebecca the next day to pick Laura up so she can come over to the house for Sunday dinner and get to know Alex and the gang better. The entire family welcomes Laura with open arms while she is quick to establish bonds with the kids, especially Barrett-the courageous cancer survivor. Would Laura like to see the scrapbooks of that horrible time in their lives that Jane put together? She would?! Well then...and once again the reader is treated to yet another unnecessary retelling of a story they already know. 
    After dessert, Laura reads Rebecca a story until she falls asleep and Wade takes Laura home. It's like they're already married. They spend many pages DTRing. Laura has no immediate family who would be able to come to her (second) temple wedding, IF this is where this relationship is going. Her only close friend is Rochelle who lives out of state and is hardly bridesmaid material. Laura gets down on herself. If Wade knew just how dysfunctional her family is, how many years she's struggled with depression, he'd renege on this marriage proposal. Wade reminds her his own back story isn't exactly ideal.
      Okay. Let's get married! Wade and Laura set the date for this Saturday in the Salt Lake Temple. Why wait?

Chapter 19

    Alex and Jane are a little surprised when Wade returns to announce his rather spur-of-the-moment wedding plans. Nobody bats an eye that this temple sealing will take place in one of the busiest temples in the world, where a date to reserve a temple sealing room must be made weeks in advance. A sudden cancellation in one of the reception rooms at the Joseph Smith Memorial Building (JSM) allows them to go ahead with their plans of holding the wedding luncheon/reception there. Only in the world of Anita Stansfield could every single one of Wade's family members and close friends be miraculously available to come to this instant wedding after Wade extends the invites over the phone. Both Wade and Laura's bishops and stake presidents can accommodate them for their temple marriage interviews. Wade takes Laura to Brad and Marilyn's house so she can be simultaneously introduced and so they can drop the bomb that they're getting married this Saturday. Brad and Marilyn squeal and agree they wouldn't miss this for the world.
       Do these people not have lives?
      Laura leaves Rochelle a voice message on her answering machine letting her know of her upcoming wedding. When Wade picks her up so they can do some last minute wedding shopping (Laura needs a wedding dress) she is very upset because her drunk mom called to say, no, they won't be coming to the wedding. Wade tells her not to let it bother her. 
      There will, of course, be dancing at the wedding luncheon so Wade and Laura join Alex and Jane at the church cultural hall so they can practice. Lying in her bed, alone, later that night, Laura tries very hard not to let her depression return and overtake her.

Chapter 20

    Of course, Marina shows up on Wade's doorstep one evening begging Wade to take her back. He informs her he's getting married to the most incredible woman in the world and shows Marina back out the door just in time to turn around and find Laura standing there. She overheard the entire conversation and can't believe she's actually worthy of such sentiments. They hold hands and kiss.
   Back at her own house, alone, the doorbell rings. It's Rochelle, here to talk some sense into her friend who, she feels, is moving way too fast. Laura insists Wade is a good man. Isn't he? Rochelle isn't so sure. Look at what marriage did to their (deceased) friends and don't forget how Randall treated her.
   Thanks to Rochelle's visit, Laura is too depressed to get out of bed the next morning. Learning she never showed up at the clinic to work her shift, Wade rushes over in a panic to talk, and to pick Laura up so he can take her back to the house for dinner, but Laura is sick of talking (the reader agrees).
   A knock at the door reveals Rochelle, come to apologize for yesterday's conversation except...Laura really should admit she's wearing rose-colored glasses and it's not too late to change her mind. Wade declares his presence. He's not Randall. They are getting married tomorrow and that's final. Wade will take Laura as she is, depression and all. Rochelle huffs before slamming the door on her way out. Through her tears, Laura knows God sent Wade Morrison into her life to save her from a fate worse than death. She breaks down again in the car and Wade has to pull over.

Chapter 21

    Laura continues to cry in Wade's arms. When they finally arrive at the house, no one says anything about Laura's red, blotchy, tearstained face but Alex and Wade do escort Laura into another room so they can give her a priesthood blessing. Laura and Wade then spend several pages talking and rehashing all the old issues: Laura's battle with depression will most likely continue but she will try very hard not to let it consume her. As long as she has Wade Laura knows she can handle anything because Randall would often get verbally abusive with her, he even hit her a few times in exasperation over her female melancholy issue-HER VERY REAL DEPRESSION. Laura sobs at the memories while Wade pulls her into his arms. Again. They will prove to Randall, her mother, Rochelle, to everyone that marriage to a good man really is possible.
    Instead of taking Laura back to her place, where she'll be soooo lonely and alone with her dark thoughts, it is spontaneously decided she will spend the night here. Alex and Jane have no problem with it. Then, in the morning, they can all go to the temple for the wedding.
      No bridezillas here!
     Jane helps Laura in the bride's room of the temple. She and Wade are married in one of the sealing rooms and outside everyone is waiting to take pictures. Laura is surprised to see Rochelle, who chats comfortably with other family members and accepts the invite to the luncheon where almost everyone takes a minute to express their love and congrats to the happy couple. Then it's time for Wade and Laura to lead off the dancing.
    It's a very short honeymoon, the wedding night is spent at a local B&B just a short drive from the JSM building downtown. Post coital, Wade and Laura gaze into each other's eyes, each asking the other if this incredible happiness they are both feeling could possibly be real?
   Next day, Sunday, Jane and Alex smirk as the newlyweds slip into sacrament meeting. The honeymoon may be over but the fun is just beginning! Pulling Rebecca into her lap, Laura knows as long as she has Wade and her new step-daughter to love, nothing in her life could possibly go wrong ever again.
    
At least until the next book.

THE END

A Time to Dance

Book Series: Keane Family Saga  

Publishing Date: 2006

Author: Anita Stansfield

Publisher: Covenant Communications, Inc.

Category: LDS Contemporary Romance

Point of View: Third Person Limited- Alex and Jane

Chapter Count: 23

Page Count: 408

To my first grandchild, William Charles Stansfield, who came into the world while this book was being written.

Chapter 1

Salt Lake City, UT

      Dr. Alexander Keane is right in the middle of a scene from the hit TV show ER as the young man on the ER operating table is flatlining. They bring him back and Alex silently exhales another prayer of gratitude and relief. He loves his job.

     It is after midnight when Alex enters his dark and silent home. He checks on his two sleeping children: four-year-old Barrett is smart as a whip and eager to embrace life while three-year-old Katharine is already going-on-thirteen; her only interests lie in trying on Mom's shoes, clothes, makeup and perfume. In the master bedroom, he finds his wife, Jane, still awake, nine months pregnant, too exhausted to sleep after chasing kids and keeping house all day while Alex brings home the bacon but they have the gospel and their lives are rich and full. No reason in the world why Alex shouldn't be feeling perfect peace and contentment with the current status of his life. But Alex just can't shake this terrible feeling of foreboding that something VERY BAD is going to happen. Soon. Jane just keeps reminding him to say a prayer when he feels this way and all will be well.

Chapter 2

     Not many days later, Jane is browning hamburger at the stove for dinner when she hears Katharine start to wail from upstairs. Not bothering to turn down the heat, Jane is busy cleaning up the spilled perfume and broken bottle in her bedroom when she smells the smoke and rushes downstairs to find her kitchen on fire.

    The home is not a total loss but Alex and his family will need a place to stay until the repairs are complete. Jane is still in shock when Alex's distant cousin, Susan, (introduced in the last book as the owner of the historical home built by Alex's namesake-his great, great grandfather) graciously offers to let the family move in with her and her husband, Donald. Ward members and neighbors also arrive to aid in the disaster cleanup. Jane phones Alex to warn him dinner will be a little late tonight.

    That's when the baby decides this would be the perfect time to come into the world. Someone drives Jane to the hospital ER where Alex has the honor of delivering his new son. They will name him Preston Alexander. 

   Despite this latest "trial by fire" (pun intended) Alex and Jane breathe a sigh of relief how richly blessed they are and that Alex's terrible premonition wasn't so bad after all.

   That's when Alex notices mysterious bruises on Barrett's legs as he's bathing him several nights later. Next morning, Barrett doesn't feel good and has no appetite for the breakfast Susan is serving them. Jane and Alex realize Barrett has been sick quite a lot this past year. Not wanting to take any chances, Alex takes his son to Primary Children's Medical Center located in the building next door to the main hospital where he works for a more specific examination. The test results are not good. Barrett's white blood cell count is abnormally high.

    He has cancer.

Chapter 3

    With a sinking heart, Alex goes to Jane's hospital room in the building next door to inform her their son has leukemia. The next few years are not going to be easy at all. In fact, from what Alex observed during his residency and internship years, battling this disease is nothing short of a trip through hell. Both cry in each other's arms, yet, with family coming to town to see the new baby, perhaps God's timing is playing an important part in this too. They will need lots of prayers and support during this dark season in their lives.

Chapter 4

    Alex spends the night with Barrett in his hospital room. Barrett whimpers in pain but his father comforts him, answering his son's questions about this strange illness as best he can. With the perfect faith of a little child, Barrett reminds Alex he hasn't given him a priesthood blessing yet.

   Next day, Alex calls his formerly estranged father, Neil. We met Neil in the last book. It was a real struggle for Alex to reconcile with his father after he committed adultery, left the church, but later came back as a happily remarried man. Thank goodness that's all over now.

   Grandpa Neil is more than happy to come to the hospital to assist in giving Barrett a blessing. Then Barrett has to undergo more tests which he refers to as "taking out my bones." Alex and Jane try and hide their emotion when they learn their brave little boy will have to wear a central IV line for the next three years. Chemotherapy is started and, one week later, Barrett is released. But this ordeal is far from over. With his immune system pretty much nonexistent, everything must be kept meticulously clean and no play dates unless the guest has first undergone a complete health screening.

   Despite the excellent health insurance with his job, the medical bills are still piling up. Jane and Alex fast and pray and finally decide to just sell the house (the one that caught fire) since empty nesters, Donald and Susan, have no problem with having more company under their roof. It's practically Alex's house anyway, since he is a direct descendant of the original owner. Alex and Jane continue to strengthen each other, spending many nights simply snuggling in bed and counting their blessings. Their entire ward, family, neighbors, everyone has been more than supportive in stepping up with their incredible acts of kindness and compassionate service.

Chapter 5

    Donald and Susan sit Jane and Alex down one night with an inspired idea: for years they've been planning to serve a mission, travel, visit all the children and grandchildren, take full advantage of their golden years, ect. But how can they do that when none of their grown children are interested in house sitting? Someone has to look after things around here. After Barrett has made a full recovery, would Jane and Alex like the job? Donald and Susan's only condition is that as soon as they are ready to be put in a retirement home and die, Jane and Alex will agree to buy this house from them. They will of course be giving them a great deal on the sale.

   Who would turn down such a generous offer?

    A few nights later, the phone rings. Walter, Jane's father who lives in California, passed away unexpectedly. Jane does not take it well. Alex makes all the arrangements making sure the children, Barrett especially, are cared for before they both board a plane to California. They are back just as fast and life goes on.

   After the new year, the doctors have bad news. Barrett is going to need a bone marrow transplant. Alex is especially upset by this. Jane is also in shock as, so far, they don't even have a matching donor yet for their little son.

Chapter 6

  Seeing how upset her husband is, his knowledge of all the medical terms nobody will explain to her, Jane insists Alex tell her everything. He does:

   Unlike other simple medical procedures, kidney or liver, a bone marrow transplant is not only extremely painful for the patient but life threatening as well. The drugs Barrett will be injected with will produce side effects similar to what victims in the WWII Nazi human experimentation camps suffered. Death would be a much easier path for Barrett, yet, how can they stand by and watch him die?

   Their nightmare is only just beginning, Alex tells Jane, who weeps hearing this. And let's not even think about the cost of such a procedure. Alex is tested and declared the best match for Barrett. Word gets out. The Salt Lake Tribune (Boo! Team Deseret News!)  even calls offering to do a big human interest story on their special medical case. It's not every day an ER doctor father has the opportunity to give life to his terminally ill son. Donations come pouring in. Neil (who has been very well off financially since his divorce from Alex's mom) also insists on helping to pay some of the expenses. 

   Intense chemotherapy is started. Family, friends and ward members along with Jane and Alex all take turns staying with Barrett at Primary Children's, where angels are known to regularly walk the halls. With the risk of outside infection, Barrett is pretty much sentenced to solitary confinement in his special hospital room where no outside items of any kind are allowed unless they've been thoroughly broken down and every single part sterilized which limits most toys. Stuffed animals quickly become a favorite gift which is lucky for Barrett because he loves animals. The first thing he's going to do when he gets better is visit Hogle Zoo. Alex and Jane quickly get to know the other parents of children in the cancer ward, finding another source of comfort and support.

   Alex continues to work his usual graveyard shifts in the ER until, one day, in the middle of summer, just as he's getting off work in the early morning hours, he has a strong prompting to go visit his father.

Chapter 7

   Alex doesn't hesitate but drives straight to the house. He calls first on his cell phone and panics when he gets no answer from either Neil or his step mom, Roxanne's, phones. Running inside he finds them both in the backyard working in their garden. Both are perfectly fine. Still feeling the prompting to stay, Alex makes himself at home and is happy to enjoy the big breakfast Roxanne fixes for him and Neil. She leaves to run some errands. 

   Neil and Alex are visiting pleasantly in the living room when the doorbell rings. Alex answers to find a young man, middle twenties, looking a LOT like a younger version of Neil Keane, standing on the front porch. He asks to speak to Neil Keane. He won't give his name. Alex invites him in and calls for Neil.

   Turns out that little tryst with a married woman, Marilyn Morrison, from his family ward all those years ago Neil thought would never hurt anybody produced a son who holds out his hand to Neil, as casually as if they were at party, introducing himself as Wade Morrison.

   Since Neil looks like he's going to be sick, Alex steps up suggesting he and Wade go for a little drive to give Neil some time alone to absorb the shock. They have a good talk but Wade is pretty bitter about being left in the dark all these years before he made the ironic discovery his mom's husband was not his biological father (which explains why he never quite looked or seemed to fit in with his other siblings).

   Alex is just thrilled (think Kevin Costner from Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves) to learn he has a brother! He did grow up with just two older sisters, you know. He tells Wade about Barrett which softens him a little but he's still in shock over how he came to learn his paternity. It was after he enrolled at the U of U to study genetics (he wants to be a doctor too!). His professor gave the class an assignment to collect blood samples from their immediate family members. Imagine the surprise Wade got after he ran the tests in the lab, confronted his parents privately and the truth came out. The news has torn the family apart. None of Wade's children are speaking to their parents and they can barely look at Wade.

    No one but Alex could truly understand how Wade is feeling right now. A bond is already forming between them. Alex is so glad he followed the prompting to come over today so he could help soften the blow of another Anita Stansfield soap opera plot complication.

   The worst over, they pull up to the house where Alex knows, somehow, everything is going to be all right as they both get out of the car and go inside to see how Neil is doing.

Chapter 8

      Not good. Neil is still in shock. He honestly had no idea his boys could swim. Still unable to handle the truth that he is the result of the only sin in the church that is next to murder in its seriousness, Wade leaves almost immediately.  Alex and Neil call after him they hope Wade will keep in touch but Wade exits without making any kind of commitment.

   Roxanne returns and they tell her everything.

   Jane is equally shocked and surprised when Alex tells her. That evening the phone rings. Neil is having an emotional breakdown. Alex tells Roxanne to call a trusted friend, specifically one who holds the priesthood, and he'll be right over to give his father a priesthood blessing. Neil calms down enough to agree to attend the temple tonight, just as he and Roxanne had planned. Alex will join them.

   Jane is glad Alex got to go to the temple today. All they can do now is take it one day at a time with both Barrett and Wade and just wait on the Lord.

Chapter 9

    One of Barrett's little cancer friends from the hospital dies. Jane sobs as if she had been her own child. The following evening Alex is at the hospital reading aloud to Barrett from one of his favorite books, Hop on Pop (disassembled, laminated, and spiral bound so it can be thoroughly cleaned on a daily basis) they have to stop when Barrett starts throwing up again but not before they reached the part that reads, "This one is my other brother," which gets Alex thinking. Wade is his "other brother." Maybe he can use this to help Wade.

   Alex and Jane attend the funeral for Barrett's little friend and have a nice talk with the girl's (LDS) parents who are at peace with their daughter's death. Wade stops by the hospital a few days later, just in time for Alex's lunch break. With all that just happened, Wade was fired from his job for attendance. Now he has bills, including school, rent on his one bedroom and nothing to pay it with, He's not looking for any handouts, he's been too depressed this last week to really care about life. He admits to Alex he's been contemplating suicide, being around his family has grown too awkward. He's been avoiding all contact with them since the last chapter. Wade asks Alex to make a few phone calls in his behalf. Alex lets Neil know Wade got back in touch with them, is sitting right here and is okay. Next Wade makes Alex call Marilyn; worried sick, no word from her son since this whole ordeal began. She is also very glad to meet Alex over the phone. Alex promises he will call her if Wade does anything idiotic.

Chapter 10

      Unlike Alex, Wade served a mission and has stayed fairly active in the church. Now that he's learned the truth about his parents, he's doubting everything. Alex assures him he felt the same way after his father committed adultery. It took many years, and his fiancée being in a coma, before he was finally able to come to terms with it all and forgive Neil. Alex encourages Wade to do the same, he doesn't want to end up like him.

   That evening, Wade returns so Alex can take him next door to meet Barrett and Jane. For Wade (and the reader) it is a humbling experience as Alex explains to Wade how the high doses of chemo and radiation are why their little Superman can only smile weakly at Wade in greeting. Due to the ulcers in his mouth, Barrett has a tube in his nose. He can neither talk nor eat.. Upon seeing his father, Barrett wants nothing more than to rest his head against daddy's chest and fall asleep. Wade points out how God probably felt seeing his Son crucified. Alex appreciates the reference and agrees watching his son endure all of this has been the hardest thing he's ever had to go through.

   They join Jane and Katharine in the hospital playroom. Neil, Roxanne, and both of Alex's sisters, Charlotte and Becca who just flew in, also arrive to surprise the family. Alex is quick to introduce Wade to his sisters as "a dear friend" while Wade is quick to excuse himself. Alex and Neil follow so they can talk. Learning about his son's financial situation, Neil insists he will be bailing Wade out of everything he currently owes. He paid for Alex's education, he'll do the same for Wade. Good thing he can afford it. Wade accepts Neil's offer, gets in his car and leaves.

    Neil takes everyone out for dinner, Jane returns to the hospital to spend the night with Barrett while Alex takes his sisters home to set them up for the night. All three siblings visit in the living room where Alex tells them the truth about Wade's relation to them all. The sisters can't believe it. They agree Wade should be invited to the house this Sunday for a family dinner so they can all talk about these unusual family circumstances.

Chapter 11

     Alex finds Wade on the U campus; enjoying the look on his face being tracked down like this. He pulls out a copy of this page from Hop on Pop

     Wade is amused by the gift. He takes it and Alex gives him the Sunday dinner invite which Wade also accepts. 
    The dinner goes well with only a few awkward moments in the conversation when Wade makes sarcastic remarks about his parentage. Then Becca makes it worse by asking Wade if he's dating anyone? Wade responds he has no time for such interests and conversation goes back to helping Wade deal with his anger and bitterness over his parents betrayal of everything he learned in primary about the ideal eternal family. All help clean up, eat dessert and Wade leaves. Alex walks him out. Wade admits it was a good family get-together and they'll have to do it again sometime.

    Next day, unbeknownst to all, one of Wade's younger teenage brothers is brought into the ER to be treated for a serious head injury as the result of a car accident. The boy's mother enters the exam room which will give Alex and Marilyn the opportunity to meet in person...

Chapter 12

    Noticing the name on the badge, Marilyn sends her son outside to the waiting room so she can talk to Alex privately. She introduces herself, desperate for any news about Wade who still refuses to return her phone calls. After getting the address, Alex promises to stop by Wade's one bedroom walk-up where he lives alone and tell him to call his mother.

    Alex notes the Hop on Pop picture taped to the wall. Wade seems a little down (he quit school and got fired again-he just can't handle all this drama!) but since he's not suicidal (yet) all Alex can do is urge Wade to call him if he needs to talk.

   Barrett has to be rushed to PICU (Pediatric Intensive Care Unit) a few days later. They stabilize him but Alex has never seen Jane so shaken. Neil helps Alex give Barrett another blessing. Alex stays with Jane at the hospital until the urge to go for a drive becomes to hard to ignore. Wearing the hands free (bluetooth?) device that came with his (2006) cell phone means Alex can take a call and still drive responsibly. It's Marilyn, her mother's intuition is tingling like mad. Would Alex mind stopping by Wade's and checking on him? Alex wouldn't mind at all.

    After all, it's not everyday an Anita Stansfield character gets the opportunity to intervene in a suicide attempt. 

    Alex discovers Wade sobbing, sitting on the bathroom floor with a box cutter and a bloody wrist. He's doing it all wrong, of course, but Dr. Alex Keane doesn't tell him that. Instead, he wraps the wrist, calls Marilyn (who can't believe it!) and makes Wade get in the car so he can drive him to the ER. Wade will be spending the night at Alex's house tonight. Alex can't help but feel a little annoyed at his "other brother" for doing such a stupid thing as attempting to take his own life for no good reason.

Chapter 13

    At the ER, Alex personally stitches up his little brother along with a good talking to. Wade promises he'll never try anything like this again, but he's glad for the sleepover as he's scared to be left alone and is already dreading going back to his apartment. Driving over to the house, Wade inquires about Barrett and Alex nearly crashes the car as a huge emotional surge takes him by surprise. Through his sobs, Alex tells Wade about Barrett's breathing issue that landed him in PICU and that his little boy may not make it. Wade is very sorry. 

   They enter the house where Preston (now two) and Katharine are so glad daddy's come home. They return to their toys while the four adults congregate in the kitchen. Seeing her husband is just a little aggravated, Jane pauses dishing up some of Susan's specialty homemade soup to ask, what's happened? Alex explodes. His son is dying. As a doctor and especially as a father, there's nothing he can do to save him while he got stuck today saving the life of this idiot brother over here who doesn't even care about life! 

     And with that, Alex storms out. Jane is wise enough not to ask for any details but instead makes some small talk with Wade, retrieves her stubborn husband and, later, while she's bathing Preston, Alex fills her in on what happened today-Wade got low and decided to end it all. Good thing he followed that prompting. Which reminds him, he'd better call Neil and tell him the latest "Wade issue." Jane is supportive and sympathetic.

     Neil is a little shaken but agrees with Alex they'll just have to take it one day at a time. Alex and Wade have another talk. Wade has a good question. Who is he sealed to? Alex reminds him, despite the circumstances of his birth, because both his parents repented and came back to the church, he was still born under the covenant. Let God take care of the technicality of who Wade is actually sealed to.

   Before they can get any further, Donald and Susan return from the temple. Jane calls from the hospital where it is her turn tonight to sit with Barrett. Donald and Alex give Wade a blessing. Then they all congregate to the kitchen where Susan serves the men some cake.

Chapter 14

     Over cake and milk, Susan naively inquires how Wade cut his wrist like that? 
On a box cutter, they answer. 
Well, accidents will happen, she says. 
Um, it wasn't by accident. 
Oh. 
(You poor thing!) 
    Wade again admits he's grateful to have a place to sleep tonight other than his lonely, one bedroom. Alex shows Wade to his room. Next day, he makes some calls to arrange for Wade to stay a few days at a suicide treatment facility. Wade has no objection to this, agrees seeking help including counseling might be a good idea.

   Neil will, of course, be covering all the expenses.

Alex and Wade drive back over to Wade's apartment so Alex can help him clean the place up while Wade packs a bag with everything he'll need during his stay at the facility. A day or two later, Alex stops by to visit. He meets first with the doctor who is treating Wade. The male doctor suggests it might be a good idea to have Wade's parents...ALL of them...come in for a big group therapy session with Wade. Alex goes to Wade's room who agrees while this should be a very interesting, if not awkward, meeting, he has no objections. It's a start. They will do it tomorrow, Alex tells him.

Chapter 15

      Wade is pacing the floor when Alex finds him the next day in the conference room. He suggests they say a prayer and Wade is able to relax enough to ask after Barrett. Neil and Roxanne then Brad (so THAT's his name!) and Marilyn are shown in. Everyone stands around trying very hard not to make eye contact. Now that everyone's all here, the doctor invites everyone to sit down and they begin the discussion. 

      Neil repeats his old speech about mistakes and regrets, ending with how grateful he was to learn he had another son. Brad adds he feels partly responsible for driving his wife into the arms of another man. Roxanne vouches for Neil-he's come a long way. Marilyn has nothing to say except how sorry she is for not making more of an effort to inform Neil of the baby and that she's ready to take full responsibility for her poor choices, including Wade's suicide attempt.

    Then the doctor (who is also an LDS stake president) poses an interesting question: if Marilyn had contracted a fatal STD-like AIDS-passing it on to Wade who was now fighting to stay alive, how would she be feeling now? Marilyn says she'd rather God took her than Wade. 

    Suddenly she gasps and everyone stares as Marilyn remembers. After she found out she was pregnant, she tried to take her own life by slitting her wrist. She pulls back her sleeve. Wade is so shocked by the irony, he has to leave the room with Alex so they can discuss this new development privately. They return where Wade has a valid question for his mother. When she met with the church court to discuss her sin and possible excommunication, did they know about the baby? They did. And all, including Marilyn (and later Brad) agreed that Wade should not be told until later. Everyone felt peace over the decision. That all would be revealed in God's own timetable. Marilyn was excommunicated but she later repented, she and Brad got counseling and their children-ALL of them-grew up never knowing the story of the prodigal parents.

    Marilyn did make every effort to find Neil but all her letters were returned, unopened. She even called Ruth, who was sympathetic but still bitter over her deadbeat husband who never left a forwarding address and she didn't really care. Marilyn couldn't really blame her. She had Wade and decided if the opportunity ever came to tell Neil, she would. Meanwhile, it was her deepest desire that this terrible truth remain hidden forever.

    Neil fills in the blanks. After Marilyn left him to go back to Brad and try again, he moved out of state to stay with a male friend, find himself, but spiraled down into his own attempted suicide. Checked himself into a psych ward and lost track of time. He emerged a changed man, got his old job back which took off, continued counseling, met with his bishop, met Roxanne and, with the money from his job rolling in, began a new life; never looking back. That's why no one could find him. (And why he never bothered to contact Marilyn?)

    Wade is first to excuse himself, apologizing again for all the grief his existence has brought to everyone in this room and leaves. Everyone thanks Alex, who promises to continue his watchful lookout for Wade.

Chapter 16

      Back at the hospital, Barrett is not getting any better. Another bone marrow transplant is needed but there's no matching donor at present. The doctor tells Alex and Jane to prepare themselves for the worst. Jane does NOT take this news well. After ranting, raving and cursing God, while Alex can only cower in the corner in disbelief at this stranger screaming she's now an atheist who wants nothing more to do with the church, Jane grabs her purse and leaves the room. Alex prays harder than he's ever prayed in his life before the spirit knocks him upside the head. The place Alex needs to be right now is not here at the hospital with his unconscious son in the next room, but with his WIFE.

    Jane locked herself in the master bedroom. Alex pounds at the door until she admits him. They hold each other and cry. Alex returns to spend the night with Barrett. He's just settling in when a doctor pops into the room to announce they've found another bone marrow transplant donor. A perfect match. Would Alex like to meet him?

    And Wade steps into the room.

Jane starts hyperventilating after Alex tells her. Alex calls Marilyn who is so glad Alex told her this. The operation is done. Alex visits Wade in his hospital room. Wade is tired but feeling much better about everything. Just think, if Wade had actually succeeded in taking his own life, he would've missed this miraculous opportunity to give life.

Chapter 17

      Exiting Wade's room, Alex runs into Marilyn and they have a nice chat about Wade's progress. Alex truly believes one day Wade will find peace over this issue. She comes with him next door to Primary Children's to meet Jane and Barrett, who is being given Wade's bone marrow as they speak. They watch anxiously as the bag is hooked up to Barrett's IV line. All they can do now is wait and pray.

    Returning to Wade's room. Alex finds him reading the Bible, New Testament, the story of the woman taken in adultery. They have another long conversation about accountability and choices and forgiveness. Both agree, while Brad and Marilyn made some poor choices, they still turned out to be good people; worthy of respect, even admiration. 

    Wade gasps, suddenly recalling an incident from his youth. He'd forgotten all about it until now! He couldn't have been more than thirteen when he ventured out of his room late one night after everyone else had gone to bed. He'd been doing his own personal scripture study and had come across a passage he wanted to share with his parents; that's the kind of relationship they had. He stopped short when he heard them talking in the front room-about him! What a good son he was. How blessed they felt, having Wade in their family and that bringing him into their home, Brad's acceptance of them both, meant so much to Marilyn. Smiling to beat the band, young Wade returned to his room-rejoicing.

    All of the subtleness of this conversation had gone right over young Wade's head at the time, but now-he understands! Both men marvel over how blessed Wade was to have such goodly parents. Wade exits and Alex knows he's just been witness to another incredible Anita Stansfield miracle.

    Feeling very weary, Jane returns to the house one evening, ready to call it a day when the phone rings. It's Sister Lamb from the stake activities committee who just realized while this book is called A Time to Dance, we're on page 306 and, so far, there's been NO DANCING! Well, Sister Lamb is planning a stake activity of dinner and dancing (just for married couples, mind you, singles need not apply) and wanted to include some kind of classy floor show. She heard Jane and Alex used to tear it up on the dance floor in their younger years and is calling to remedy that.

   Swallowing her fury, Jane tactfully tells Sister Lamb just what she can do with her wholesome evening of fun and dancing while children are dying in hospital beds. This really isn't a good time for her. Sister Lamb understands. Jane hangs up, goes to her room, and cries herself to sleep. 

Chapter 18

      One night, Wade stops by the house where Alex is alone with the sleeping kids. Wade happily informs him he's spent the past week or so becoming a new man-he met with his bishop to renew his temple recommend and they had a good talk, then he went to see his parents and they reconciled. Now he's here to request Alex come with him to see Neil. Alex calls Neil instead who comes right over.

   Father and son embrace, weeping on each other's necks. At last! Wade has finally found peace. Wade ends up spending the night at the house. Next day, he and Alex go to the hospital both to check on Barrett's progress and to give Jane a blessing. She's been so melancholy and despondent everyone's been worried about her. Jane agrees to the blessing. Wade is the mouthpiece. Jane is blessed with peace and hope that everything will work out. Jane is also counseled on the importance to take some time, during this busy and stressful period of her life, for herself (meaning she really should accept that invite to participate in that stake dinner floor show). Alex totally gets this as it was only a few nights ago he also received a phone call from Sister Lamb, prompted by the spirit to ask again. Alex promised to talk to Jane first before agreeing to anything. 

    When Alex confesses this information, Jane is furious-why is everyone ganging up on her like this?! Her son could die any minute and they expect her to put on her dancing shoes and put on a show!? Alex calms her down and talks her into agreeing. Jane is still reluctant and for the next few days is quiet but her anger seems to have left her. Alex thinks this is a good sign.

Chapter 19

    Because this is supposed to be an LDS romance novel, Alex surprises Jane with a romantic "date night" rehearsal at the church where they'll have the gym all to themselves to first share an indoor picnic on the stage before changing their shoes and getting down to Bruce Springsteen's "Dancing in the Dark" (good choice) and "Stones" by Neil Diamond (not so good choice). Don't worry, they won't be using these selections in their actual performance, this is just for warming up.

   The next CD plays more non-traditional music-African and Indian. Alex encourages Jane to freestyle, just "go for it," like their old dance instructor used to have them do during practice. Jane starts to get into it and Alex can tell she's affected by the atmosphere. They twirl, tango, step together as if they were one. How can Jane not notice the intensity in Alex's eyes as he looks at her. He reminds her how beautiful she is, that he's never been more deeply in love with her than right now at this time in their lives.

   Jane shatters.

   Alex catches her before she can collapse to the painted gym floor where Jane cries so hard, Alex has to instruct her in Lamaze breathing so she won't hyperventilate. Alex kisses her. Since the music is still playing, he urges her up into one last dance. The light is back in Jane's eyes. Looks like the date was a success.

    Wade stops by again a few nights later. He got a job. School and classes will be starting up again and he won't be quitting this time. Life is good. Later that evening at the hospital, Alex and Jane enjoy this rare time to themselves and turn on the TV while Barrett continues to sleep. They find a non-LDS Christian movie playing about the life of Jesus as told through Mary's perspective. Jane sniffles as she gets the connection between Mary, mother of the Savior who also had to endure watching her Son suffer and her own trial. Alex reminds her Jesus will carry her through this and leaves the room, feeling God led them to watch this TV movie tonight in order to help Jane find peace. God truly works in mysterious ways. (While they move in "Mysterious Ways?" Seriously, when this book came out in 2006 U2's lead guitarist, The Edge, had to cancel a few shows during the recent tour after his seven-year-old daughter was diagnosed with...wait for it...leukemia! Coincidence? I think not.) 

Chapter 20

     Alex and Jane have another rehearsal "date" at the church before going to the hospital. They talk in the car about this trial and how important it is, as parents, to remember to put themselves and their marriage first while relying on God to heal their son, putting their faith in Him that Barrett will be allowed to live a full life.

    A few days later, Alex uses his lunch break to meet Wade outside in his car where he drives them both to an LDS bookstore. Wade wants to buy a special gift of artwork for Marilyn but wants Alex's input. They listen to Collective Soul's (finally a decent group!) "Reunion" while they chat. 

 (Really? A sleepy b-side song when they could be rocking out to "Precious Declaration." How lame can you get?)

    The purchase is some framed art of the woman taken in adultery. Wade hopes it won't offend Marilyn if he gives it to her. On the contrary. Alex thinks it the perfect way to show acceptance and forgiveness. Wade wants to do this with all his family present, specifically, the first Sunday of next month as they've started a tradition of gathering for a big family dinner and special FHE. Wade is going to volunteer to give the lesson, then he can present the gift. He hopes Alex will come too, if only for the moral support. Alex wouldn't miss it.

The painting probably looks something like this:

(screen shot courtesy www.art.com featuring a huge gallery of lovely religious artwork) 

    

    Back at the hospital, Barrett is still somewhere far away, among the unconscious. All he does is sleep and when he is awake it's like he's not even there. Again, all they can do is watch and pray.

    Fast Sunday arrives. Alex and Wade meet up so they can drive to Marilyn and Brad's together for the big FHE get-together. 

     Chapter 21

    Wade's family consists of-Mom and Dad, Sadie and her husband Ted (they left the kids at home), David and his wife (they also left their kids at home), Lance (his wife is expecting), and Robin is home for the weekend visiting from BYU. We already know Wade. Brian still lives at home (he's the one who got in a car accident and is currently rebelling against everything).

    They eat roast beef and mashed potatoes. Brian makes a snide remark about Alex "the doctor" being invited here for no good reason. Is this some kind of intervention for him? Jeez, people! Wade corrects him, explaining Alex's connection to the family which shuts Brian up.

   Marilyn tries to ease the awkwardness by asking Alex how his sick little son is doing? Everyone's attitude immediately changes, especially when Wade's important role is revealed by Alex. Everyone helps with clearing the table, doing the dishes and cleaning up before going into the living room area for the lesson.

    There's lots of emotional hugging, crying and frequent pauses to vent during Wade's long monologue about Marilyn's BIG SIN (unhappy as the event must be...we may draw from it this useful lesson: that loss of virtue in a female is irretrievable;..that her reputation is no less brittle than it is beautiful) and the resulting peace that can be found by all if they study the scriptures and examine their own hearts. Just like in the New Testament story of the woman taken in adultery.

   Then Wade pulls out the wrapped package and all are moved after she opens it. More hugs and tears as all the children apologize for casting stones when they were the real sinners. Marilyn's betrayal to the family can finally be put in the past. Never fear, gentle reader, all is forgiven.

   Alex notes the mood over dessert is much lighter than it was during dinner. Alex and Wade can't wait to tell Neil what a fantastic success this evening was and the progress that was made tonight at the Morrison home.

Chapter 22

     Barrett grows worse, if that's even possible, but this time, Jane remembers her scriptures and the priesthood blessings she's received, the counsel from the doctors about being prepared to accept the worst, to just let it go and trust in God. Blood tests show the graft is taking. Then, that same day, a dramatic turnaround. Alex and Jane realize Barrett's eyes are not only open but he is AWAKE! Responsive! He knows them and his eyes sparkle as they ask him how he's feeling today? Barrett's weak smile give them hope enough to ask, what would Barrett like to do first when he's feeling well enough to leave the hospital? To their utter astonishment, in a raspy voice, Barrett requests a trip to the zoo. Alex and Jane weep tears of joy. Their son is on the mend!

   Later, Barrett is cuddling in Alex's lap when he reveals some important information he received from Grandma and Grandpa. No, not Neil and Roxanne his OTHER grandparents: Ruth (Barrett's "angel grandma") and Jane's father (the grandpa from California, Walter). It would appear their special little boy was allowed a brief visit to the spirit world where those who had gone before him told him he needed to stay on earth so he could grow up, get baptized and serve a mission. Just then, Wade comes rushing in. He heard the news but not the full details. Relieved his nephew is no longer at death's door he is very pleased to finally meet Barrett who thanks him for his lifesaving bone marrow. An instant bond forms between the two.

   Wade observes one of Jane and Alex's rehearsals at the church. The two numbers they will be performing are coming together well. Barrett is released from the hospital and comes home to resume daily life while regaining his strength. His feeding tube is removed, his hair is growing back and he is feeling well enough to join the rest of the family for the big night at the stake dinner, floor show and couples slow dance.

    In their rented costumes of evening wear (tux and tails for Alex, two gorgeous, sequined, gowns for Jane) Jane and Alex bring down the house with their waltz number. A clogging group performs while they change for the rumba but before they perform, Alex takes the microphone to say a few words: while preparing for this special evening their personal lives have been wrought with stress. Alex takes this opportunity to thank their ward and stake family for all the support during Barrett's illness. Alex is holding Barrett while he speaks so all can see the recovery he's made and the miracle their family has experienced during this time of mourning, however, tonight is truly, as the scripture says, "a time to dance." 

    And dance they do.

    Along with the kids, the entire family is here, too-Neil and Roxanne, Susan and Donald. Even Wade came and (since it would be pretty awkward) he brought a girlfriend nobody knew about! They've only been dating for ten days. Her name is Elena and the two are clearly in love. While all the happily married couples at this event slow dance, Alex and Jane speculate an announcement from Wade very soon and that these two young fools will probably end up just like them.

    

      Chapter 23

      The entire family enjoys a trip to the zoo. Uncle Wade pulls his favorite nephew in a rented wagon. A perfect day to celebrate life.

      Just as Alex and Jane predicted, Wade calls one day to announce the wedding date. He and Elena will be married in the Salt Lake Temple before Wade is scheduled to start medical school back East.

      Not long after that, Alex is summoned to one of the ER exam rooms by a smirking nurse who reports this particular patient specifically requested Dr. Alex Keane.

     It's Jane, of course. She had a little accident. Nothing fatal just needs a few stitches which gives them some time to be alone together, now that life has become even more busy and hectic than it was during Barrett's illness They reminisce about the first time they met before making out on the exam table; that's when a new nurse walks in on them. Alex is quick is explain and everyone has a good chuckle. 

    Wade and Elena are married in one of the sealing rooms which is attended by all. Neil sits next to Alex while Brad and Marilyn take their rightful places in the witness chairs as the parents of the groom.

Epilogue

     It's Barrett's baptism day! As he is expected to make a full recovery, Alex and Jane rejoice in their son's health and happiness. They welcome all the family and friends who made this special trip to witness an equally special event.
    A big backyard barbecue at the house is enjoyed by all afterwards. Alex mans the grill, kids run wild, while the grown-ups visit and eat. Wade and Elena are currently living here at the house and Elena is already expecting their first child. Jane is also expecting. The two woman pose for a humorous "baby bump" picture (the kind nobody wants to see on Facebook). Alex cuddles his son on his lap, marveling. God has been very good to them, indeed.

THE END

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