What We Trade Our Hearing For (a North and South Story)

25. The General

"I have seen the others

And I have discovered

That this fight is not worth fighting

And I've have seen their mothers

And I will no other

To follow me where I'm going"

-Dispatch

Maggie

The seasons seemed to change so suddenly; before Maggie knew what was happening, it was freezing cold outside. She hadn't brought along a decent jacket for her shopping trip, and she was regretting it as she stepped into a delightfully warm store. She just needed a few essential items, but the idea of getting out of the house was so appealing that she decided to do a bit of window shopping, maybe get a head start on Christmas presents for her family.

"Oh, well, if it isn't Maggie Hale!"

She turned at the familiar voice calling out, eyes instantly landing on Faith's tanned arm which was thrust in her directed. Maggie's gaze traveled down the arm to the wiggling fingers, one of which was graced by an enormous diamond ring.

Surprised, Maggie glanced back up at Faith. "Well, I guess I should say congratulations!" She said, wondering who Faith had managed to tie down so suddenly.

With a sly grin, Faith turned to the man next to her. "Yes, yes, we're getting married! The sooner the better." She slipped her arm through his, patting it possessively.

"It's nice to see you again, Maggie," Watson said, looking a little sheepish at Maggie's surprised expression. She quickly schooled her features into something less incredulous, hoping she hadn't conveyed the extent of her surprise.

Faith giggled at Maggie's expression. "Sure, he's a little past his prime, I suppose," she said, cupping her hand around her mouth as if that would keep her fiancé from hearing. "But he's a very good fit for the Thornton family. He's even been trying to convince John to go in with him on an investment, a real promising startup situation."

There was no stopping the surprise from showing through on Maggie's face this time. Her eyebrows shot up to new heights. "A startup?" She said, hearing in her own voice the incredulity. She cleared her throat to cover her shock. "I'm sorry, I just didn't think John would be willing to participate in that kind of risky venture, especially not right now." The words still felt judgmental, but that was something she couldn't help.

Rolling her eyes, Faith smirked. "Oh, dear, everyone does it! All business is a risk, isn't that right, Watson?" The older man nodded in agreement, already used to agreeing with everything his young bride-to-be said. "John will have to be more modern in his business dealings if he wants to keep up with the world." She continued, noticing that Watson was about to pull out his wallet to pay for her purchases. "No, no, let me get it!" Faith pulled out a shiny new credit card. "We've got quite enough money to handle this, I can assure you." She winked in Maggie's direction before swiping her card, signing the receipt with a flourish. The couple left as suddenly as they had appeared, leaving Maggie staring after them.

John

In the winter, they tended to gather in the study where the fireplace created a cozy atmosphere every evening. Sure, the house had central heat, but there was nothing like a fire to help you unwind at night. That's where John and his mother were when Faith waltzed in, tossing her purchases on the floor with a huff. "Honestly, where do Maggie Hale get off on being so high and mighty?" The question grabbed John and Hannah's attention; both looked up from what they were doing.