To Catch a Sunset

Chapter 20

Ally could hear Nancy and the others arriving downstairs. She and Mark had enjoy their night together, she was recharged and ready for anything. Mark was already down there helping carry things in. Ally made her way down and took Rachel and Rodney, so Karen and Jeff could get their car unpacked. Rachel was so excited she wanted to get on that beach. Ally completely understood, she loved the beach just as much. She had enjoyed walking it last night with Mark. It was a magical night, spiritual really. She loved being at the ocean with him. Rachel was growing impatient, Ally was doing her best to keep her distracted, while her parents got settled. Karen was pleased with the sleeping arrangements, she didn't want to share a room with her brother. She was glad Ally had changed things around, she wouldn't have been able to get her mom to do that. Ally managed to get Rachel changed into her bathing suit, she changed into hers and packed a beach bag. Rodney had fallen asleep, so she told Karen she would be at the beach with Rachel,  while everyone got settled. Mark gave her a big kiss, he would meet up with her after they unpacked everything. Ally grabbed Rachel's hand and they were off to the beach. Mark couldn't help but smile, as he watched them walk towards the ocean. He imagined how Ally would be with their children. They had never discussed having kids, but she always lit up around kids. He knew she would make a wonderful mother one day.

Nancy was walking around the house inspecting Mark and Ally's work. She was impressed by  how clean the house was. She had made it known she wasn't happy about the sleeping arrangements. She thought Ally should go in the room with Carol and Dean.  Jack stopped her from making a scene, he assured her it was the best way. She had spoken to Ally briefly, she really wanted to make things right with her. There was time for that, she smiled at Jack and continued getting settled.

Mark had been very pleasant to everyone, Karen knew being alone with Ally was the reason for his good mood. She knew her brother better than anyone, she knew he needed a break. Karen got changed and was going to find Ally and Rachel. Mark was helping his dad get the grill set up, he would join them soon. Jack was so happy his entire family was here, he had waited a long time for this. Mark changed his clothes and went to the beach.  Ally was busy building sand castles with Rachel, while Karen took pictures. Karen gave Ally a smile,

"You are so good with her. You'll make a great mom someday."Karen said. Ally smiled back, it was a nice thing to hear. She couldn't help but think of Joe, she would always be his mom. She was always told she could have children again. It had remained a concern of hers. It wasn't something she shared with anyone, not even Corin. This was a private fear, something that affected her greatly. Karen watched her as she played with Rachel, Ally was a natural. Mark was observing them as he walked up. He loved how good Ally was with kids. Mark jumped down on the ground and started helping with the castles. Karen was beaming, she loved watching her brother and daughter playing together. She continued to take pictures. Ally gave Mark a smile as he helped sculpt the sand. He leaned over and gave Ally a quick kiss. Rachel instructs Mark on how to scoop the dirt. Ally watches them with delight, she has seen him with Ricky, she knows he's good with kids. But the way he was with Rachel was different, special. She couldn't help but smile at them. She laughed out loud as Rachel ordered her uncle around. More at him for listening without objection.  Karen has stopped taking pictures, while she looked for something in her bag. When she looked  up she couldn't help but smile big. 

"Wow she loves you two. You guys will make great parents one day!" Karen said. Mark smiled at Ally, Ally gave Karen a polite smile. Mark noticed her face changed when she turned away from Karen. He wasn't sure what it was, but something was off. He watched as she continued playing with Rachel. He  went to fill up a bucket with ocean water. Ally got up to rinse off, she was getting very hot. Mark grabbed her by her waist and pulled her close. She laughed,

"Hey there beautiful, so what you don't want to have my babies?" Mark asked. Ally gave him  a confused look.

"I never said that!" Ally replied sharply. Mark gave her a kiss she pulled away and walked to the water. He walked up behind her.