Music Man Pt. 08

However the next morning they finished what they had started and intertwined and interpenetrated, bounced around and reached release and resolution, looking deep into each other's eyes, keeping as quiet as they could and failing dismally. It so happened that Joseph Charles Smith was conceived on that morning from their loving and energetic union.

(Later, Ged thought the 'accident' of the conception reflected their trials and their resolution: Cassie had come off the pill when Ged lost interest in her, weeks before, so little Joe might not have arrived if the nadir of their troubles had not been reached).

Christmas was wonderful, with Eleanor Smith in attendance. It was rushed, but Cassie and Ged shopped frantically in the few days available and managed to find presents for everyone.

For New Year, Ged and Cassie entertained everyone at their home, and Karin arrived with her new boyfriend to help prepare the place for the party, as she had once before.

Ged became a little stupid and engaged a firework company to provide a lengthy and exhilarating display when the hour struck. The neighbours were also delighted, having been warned and invited, in advance.

In January, Zak was tried on a number of counts, the most serious being 'Wounding or Inflicting Grievous Bodily Harm with intent'. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to twelve years in prison, of which they knew he would serve eight or even less if he behaved himself. No one needed to give evidence. Lee and a man called Kyle (whom neither Cassie nor Ged knew but was apparently Lee's mate), were sentenced to five years each.

Cassie required nothing from Zak in the divorce. She simply wanted to repudiate him. Ged also gave up the action against Zak, thinking that eight years' prison made the point, and having him homeless when he emerged would not serve any useful purpose. Money and possessions were irrelevant when one had a bank account the size of Ged's.

Their wedding was simple and at the same church in which she'd 'married' Zak. The marriage of Zak and Cassie had been annulled by the Church after the civil divorce was absolute. Ged paid for the whole celebration.

Cassie wore white. As she said, this was her first marriage, the other with Zak had been a sham. The Church had made that official: there had been no marriage to Zak because of his deception.

Cassie and Ged join and perform with the folk group and sometimes visit Gerard Frobisher. Furtive Glance had long since disbanded, though Ged sometimes uses Peter or Joshua from the band when recording his work. Amos left the country for parts unknown.

There are now two children in the Smith house, Maria Cassandra following her brother two years later. Cassie and Ged are very busy coping with two small children, and are looking forward to more children in due course, feeling at last settled and content.

About time they got a break! Many of their friends and family agreed and made a wish: May they make sweet music for years to come!

END