Book 2: Chapter 10

 Chapter 10:  Floridays

Day 1 – Sailing Away

Children had a way of surprising you. As the jet roared down the runway and the engines surged with power, Kimmy instinctively reached across the armrest toward Brad’s small hand in the window seat. But the toddler was far too captivated to notice. Both hands—and most of his nose—were pressed firmly against the glass as the ground blurred beneath them.  “You okay, buddy?” Kimmy asked gently. “Want Momma to hold your hand?” 

Brad didn’t turn around. Without taking his eyes off the speeding runway he answered over his shoulder, “So fast, Momma. Right Dad?”  Kimmy glanced at Mark across the aisle and laughed softly before slipping her hand into his instead. A moment later the plane lifted smoothly into the sky, and Brad threw his arms up with pure delight.

“WHEEEE!”

Kimmy shook her head, smiling, and handed him his iPad and headphones. Within seconds he had opened the movie Mark had downloaded for him and was completely absorbed, the excitement of takeoff already becoming part of the adventure.

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The lobby of the Disney Magic soared upward through several decks, crowned with golden railings and a graceful staircase that curved toward the upper levels like something from a fairy tale. Brad stood frozen the moment they stepped inside, his head whipping from side to side as his eyes tried to take in everything at once.

“Dad… look! Cinderella!” he cried, pointing excitedly. “Oooooh Dad, see the stairs? Dad… you see that?”  Kimmy laughed and gently tugged his hand. “Come on, buddy. We’re going to ride an elevator and go way up to our room.”

The glass elevator doors slid open and the group piled inside. Instantly Brad rushed to the windowed wall that overlooked the grand lobby, Jillian mirroring him beside him. Four tiny hands pressed against the glass as the elevator rose silently toward the upper decks. The two children chattered nonstop, pointing at decorations, lights, and people shrinking below them as the ship’s interior slowly unfolded around them.  “Deck Ten,” the pleasant voice chimed.

“Here we go, kids!” Allan said cheerfully.  Sally took Jillian’s hand while Kimmy reached for Brad’s, and together they stepped out into the quiet corridor. Mark and Allan followed behind pulling the luggage and carrying backpacks slung over their shoulders.

Mark glanced down at his key card. “Looking for 10058, honey.”

Kimmy walked ahead studying the room numbers. “Right this way…”

“We’re right next door, dude,” Allan added, checking his own card.

“There we are,” Kimmy said finally, stopping outside the door.  Brad reached up and tugged the handle.  “Locked, Momma. Right Dad?”

Mark nodded. “Momma’s got the key.”

Kimmy tapped the lock and pushed the door open. Brad stepped inside—and stopped dead in his tracks.

“Ooooooh.”  His eyes were fixed on the far end of the stateroom where the glass doors to the veranda framed nothing but endless blue water. Mark edged past the doorway as Kimmy scooped Brad up and carried him toward the glass.  “Look here, Brad,” she said softly. “See all the water?”  Brad leaned forward in her arms and pressed both palms against the glass.

“Dad… see water. Lots of water. Right Dad?”

Kimmy leaned back slightly into Mark’s shoulder as he stepped up behind her. She turned her head just enough to whisper, giggling softly.  “Is he going to check everything with you for the next four days?”  Mark kissed the top of her head and gently patted Brad’s hair.

“Probably.”

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The rest of the afternoon passed in a blur of discovery as the six adults and three little ones explored the massive ship. Pools, decks, snack counters, lounges—each new corner brought a new burst of excitement before they finally returned to their staterooms to change for dinner.  Brad sat curled on the sofa watching his iPad while Mark and Kimmy got ready. Mark slipped into a navy polo embroidered with a small Mickey Mouse over the chest, while Kimmy stood in front of the mirror wearing a loose Minnie t-shirt whose bright red bow stretched from hemline to neckline. The deep V-neck framed the gold heart pendant resting just above the ruby necklace.  She tilted her head thoughtfully.

“Baby… I think I’ll wear my hair in a ponytail tonight, okay?”

From the bed Mark answered easily, “I love your hair any way you want to wear it.”

Kimmy smiled at her reflection. She pointed playfully at the mirror and whispered to herself, “He really loves you… you know that, right?” Then she nodded as if confirming the answer.

Across the room Mark tapped Brad’s shoulder and lifted one headphone.  “Push pause, buddy.”  Brad did, looking up expectantly.  Mark held up two shirts. One was navy with blue stripes; the other featured a huge Spider-Man graphic.  “You pick,” Mark said. “But listen—tonight while we eat dinner we’re going to watch something like a movie.”

Brad nodded seriously.  “And Spider-Man will be on the ship.”  Brad’s eyes widened.

“Momma! Spider-Man on our boat! Right Dad?”   

Mark chuckled. “That’s right. And…”  Brad leaned forward gripping his father’s hand.

“Spider-Man might even come to our table.”  Brad exploded off the couch and ran straight to the bathroom doorway.

“MOMMA! Spider-Man come see Brad! Right Dad?”

Kimmy put on her best theatrical gasp. “Oh my! Spider-Man is coming to see us? Is that right, Daddy?”  Brad sprinted back into the room, grabbed the Spider-Man shirt, then ran back again.

“Momma! Spider-Man on my shirt! That good? Right Dad?”

Mark laughed. “Perfect choice.”

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Dinner that night was set around a large table for nine. Along one wall a massive screen displayed a Spider-Man adventure unfolding across the top deck of the ship, complete with interactive moments that had the children waving props and shouting encouragement.  Convincing them to actually eat proved far more difficult.  Kimmy, Sally, and Sophie repeatedly nudged plates closer with limited success as the young trio remained glued to the unfolding superhero battle.  Then suddenly the lights dimmed.

A spotlight illuminated the doorway where the maître d’ stood with dramatic flair.

“Ladies and gentlemen… boys and girls…”

The children froze.

“The Amazing Spider-Man!”

With that, Spider-Man leapt into the dining room in full heroic pose.  Jillian instantly clutched Sally’s arm, wide-eyed and uncertain. Kyle stared in silent awe. But Brad jumped to his feet waving both arms.

“SPIDEY! SPIDEY!”

Mark leaned toward Kimmy and whispered with a grin, “This is the best part—watching these three.”  Kimmy squeezed his arm affectionately and kissed his cheek. Then her expression shifted, softening as she studied his face.  “Did you take your meds?” she asked quietly. “I heard your Fitbit alarm.”

Mark opened his mouth theatrically. “See Momma?”

Kimmy wasn’t smiling.  “The lighting is dim in here,” she continued gently. “Can you see okay? Is your eye bothering you tonight? I haven’t seen you wipe it once.”  Mark looked at her warmly.

“Promise. It’s been really good tonight. No issues at all.”  Kimmy’s shoulders relaxed and she let out a small breath.

“Oh! Look Brad!” she said suddenly, pointing behind him.

Brad shoved the rest of a chicken nugget into his mouth and spun around.  Standing there beside the table—six feet tall and larger than life—was Spider-Man.  Brad’s grin stretched from ear to ear.

“High five, Spidey!”  The superhero instantly slapped his hand, and Brad raised both arms in triumph as the entire table erupted in laughter and applause.

---

By the time Kimmy tapped their stateroom key against the door later that night, Brad was completely asleep on Mark’s shoulder.  “See you guys at breakfast,” she whispered to Sally and Allan as they passed in the hallway with Jillian also fast asleep.  Inside the room Mark gently changed Brad into his Peter Pan pajamas, placed the clown blanket into his small hand, and tucked him carefully into bed.  A moment later he climbed under the covers himself.  The bathroom light clicked off and Kimmy padded softly across the room illuminated only by the faint glow of the ship’s night lighting. She paused dramatically at the foot of the bed and raised both arms.  “Well?” she asked with a playful pose.

She had shed everything except the oversized Minnie t-shirt which fell just to the top of her thighs. She lifted one side slightly and whispered with a giggle.  “Special Minnie Mouse undies for the trip.”

Mark laughed quietly and pulled her into bed.  “Have I ever told you just how adorable you are?”  Even in the darkness her eyes sparkled.

She tapped a finger thoughtfully against her lip. “Let me think… maybe once or twice. Certainly not enough times.”  She leaned in and kissed him, lingering just a little longer than necessary.

“Have I told you,” she whispered softly, “that the best thing I ever did was choosing you?”

Mark wrapped his arms around her and held her close.

Outside, the great ship slipped quietly through the dark water. The gentle rocking soon lulled them into sleep—Brad dreaming of superheroes and adventures while Mark and Kimmy drifted through a softer dream of shared memories, walking hand in hand, smiling at each other beneath endless skies.

Day 2:  The Captain of Her Heart

Morning came softly to Stateroom 10058, the warm Bahamian sunlight slipping through the balcony doors and scattering gentle reflections across the walls as the harbor water glittered below. Mark opened his eyes slowly, still half-drifting in the peaceful rhythm of the ship, and nearly jumped when the first thing he saw was a pair of wide blue eyes peering over the edge of the mattress above a familiar clown blanket. Brad whispered urgently, “Peter Pan…how we watch Peter, Dad?” and pointed toward the dark television across the room as if it were a locked treasure chest. Mark shifted carefully, trying not to disturb the warmth beside him, but before he could slide free a hand tightened on his shirt and a sleepy murmur floated up from the pillow. “No baby…stay…coffee can wait.” He leaned down and kissed the top of Kimmy’s head anyway, whispering conspiratorially, “Got to fight Hook…he’s a bad man.” A faint smile curled across Kimmy’s face as she hugged the abandoned pillow tighter, while Brad waited patiently with the seriousness of a young pirate awaiting orders. Mark gathered him onto the small bed and opened the iPad, tapping through the downloads until the familiar title appeared. Brad’s whole face brightened as the opening music began, and he pressed the blanket against his mouth with one hand, leaning close to the screen while whispering, “Peter, Dad…we watch Peter,” then glancing across the room to add solemnly, “Momma sleeping…shhh.”

By the time Kimmy was fully awake an hour later, the little stateroom had already begun humming with quiet morning life. Brad was dressed and bouncing in place while Kimmy knelt beside him explaining the day’s plans with the cheerful authority of a cruise director. “First we’re going to have breakfast—and we get to ride the elevator again,” she said. Brad’s eyes widened instantly. “Look out the glass and go waaaay up, right Dad?” he called across the room where Mark was tying his shoes. “Right, pal,” Mark answered with a grin. Kimmy continued, lowering her voice like she was revealing a secret. “Then we’re going to a big playground on the ship. Lots of kids.” Brad clapped enthusiastically until a thought struck him mid-motion. “Juju coming? And Kyle?” Kimmy glanced toward Mark, who shrugged with a quiet smile. “Maybe later,” she said. “But lots of kids.” Brad nodded emphatically and looked back to his father for confirmation. “Playground on ship. Lots of fun, right Dad?” Mark raised his coffee cup in agreement.

Breakfast unfolded in its usual cheerful chaos. Brad demolished a stack of pancakes while staging an elaborate battle between Peter Pan and Captain Hook across the table, occasionally punctuating the fight with sound effects that made nearby diners smile. Across from him Mark and Kimmy lingered over coffee, watching the harbor outside the tall windows where Nassau shimmered in the tropical sun. Kimmy studied the view for a moment before sighing contentedly. “I don’t see any reason to get off and explore Nassau today,” she said thoughtfully. Mark patted her hand with easy affection. “Whatever makes my girl happy. What sounds fun?” She tilted her head, thinking, then grinned. “The pool. I bought a new bathing suit I want to show you.” Mark’s smile widened instantly. “I think I’d like that.” Just then Brad waved excitedly across the room. “Juju!” Jillian ran over and hugged him while Allan arrived with two steaming cups of coffee. “Not Wawa,” he announced, “but you gotta start the day somehow, Dude.” The two men clinked cups in agreement while Kimmy quietly pulled Sally aside, whispering something that ended in shared giggles and a conspiratorial glance back toward their husbands. Allan raised an eyebrow. “Do we want to know?” Mark shook his head immediately.

A few minutes later Mark and Kimmy rode the elevator down with Brad, stepping into the bright lobby where a giant plastic tube marked the entrance to the Kidz Zone slide. Mark crouched beside Brad. “Want to ride the slide to the playground?” Brad peered into the tunnel uncertainly until Kimmy offered, “Want Momma to go with you?” His face lit up instantly. As Mark headed for the staircase he heard a joyful “WHEEEEE!” echo down the tube—and he knew immediately it hadn’t come from Brad. At the bottom, Brad was waiting proudly to report, “Momma ride with Brad, right Dad?” Soon they stood at the entrance desk where Kimmy finished registering him, the doors opening to reveal Captain Mickey Mouse standing proudly inside. Brad froze, eyes wide as saucers. Mark knelt beside him. “Shake his hand, buddy. It’s Mickey.” The enormous character leaned forward, placing a shiny pin shaped like the Disney Magic into Brad’s hand. “Mickey wants to make you his first mate,” the attendant said warmly. Brad looked to Mark, who nodded, and proudly accepted the honor before racing inside to join the other children. Kimmy squeezed Mark’s hand tightly. “He’ll be ok, right?” she whispered. Mark smiled softly. “He’ll never forget this morning.” Then he glanced back at her and added quietly, “Neither will I.”

They lingered for a moment before Kimmy tugged at Mark’s arm. 

“C’mon we don’t have much time.”

Mark hesitated, “Where are we going, are we meeting Sally and Allan?”

Kimmy had one foot on the first step and turned, “Do you know what today is?”

Mark thought for a minute…..packed on Sunday…flew here on Monday…that would make today…. And a smile broke out on his face, “Oooooh, it’s Tuesday….”

Kimmy gave him a playful exasperated look, “Yes, TUESDAY….our morning.  I already told Sally we’d be a little late we had some-THING to take care of.  Now come on, time’s ticking!”

Mark counted the days quickly, then broke into a grin. “Oh…Tuesday.” Kimmy rolled her eyes dramatically. “Yes—Tuesday. Our morning.” What followed was the kind of laughter-filled closeness that had become their quiet tradition.  The late morning sun caught Kimmy’s bracelet as she rolled onto her side of the bed and pulled the sheets over herself. smiling at the ceiling.  “Now THAT,” she said breathlessly, “is some Disney magic.” Mark turned toward her, smiling. “Definitely an E-ticket ride.” Kimmy slid over, put both hands together on Mark’s chest and rested her chin on her clasped fingers.  “I love you so SO much.” He brushed her hair gently from her forehead. “I can’t imagine life without you.” They stayed like that for several moments, lost in the moment.  Then a soft chime from Kimmy’s phone.  She reached across Mark to the nightstand and picked it up.  She kissed Mark softly and said, “The boy is ready to be picked up.”

Mark sat at the table at Marceline’s Market, the food court on Deck 11 as Kimmy brought Brad another round of chicken nuggets.  She put them in front of them and as he grabbed the first of them Kimmy said, “Honey would you like to go swimming in the big pool when you finish your lunch?  Momma can go get ready if you do.”  Brad nodded and then looked at Mark, “Ok to go swimming, right Dad?”  Mark chuckled and said, “That’s right.  I’ve got him, you go ahead back to the room.  We’ll be there in a bit.”

Kimmy looked at Sally and said, “Can Allan watch Jilly and you come back with me.  I want your opinion.”

Allan nodded as he cut up a second hot dog for Jillian.

As the girls stepped into Kimmy and Mark’s stateroom Kimmy said, “I brought two bathing suits.  And I want to wear the new one, but I need your opinion if it’s ok.”

Sally smiled, “Oh honey I’m sure it is, nearly anything goes these days.”

Kimmy disappeared into the bathroom and emerged a moment later in a black bikini.  The brief bottoms were cut high on the thigh leaving very little material on the upper thigh and the top had no straps, just a small tube top with a V-cut mid-chest. 

Sally’s smile nearly broke her face.  “Oh honey….that’s stunning.  You are the epitome of what the boys call a cougar.  Has Mark seen it?”

Kimmy blushed slightly as she looked in the mirror.  “No he hasn’t….but do you think it’s too much, well not too much, but not enough?” and she giggled.

Sally same over and stood behind her as they both looked at the reflection in the full length mirror.  “I always say, if you’ve got it then show it and honey you have definitely got it.  Mark will enjoy walking into the pool area with you in this….you know he will.”

Kimmy hugged Sally as the door opened and Mark and Brad came in.  Brad dashed right by his mother calling, “Hi Momma” without missing a beat on his way to his suitcase.  Mark stopped in the door, jaw dropped hand still on the door handle.  “Oh my” he said quietly.  He didn’t move as Kimmy put one hand behind her head and said, “You think it’s ok for me to wear this to the pool?”

“Momma….where my shorts?  Momma….MOMMA!”  Mark still hadn’t moved.  “Oh….wow…uh, well yest baby.  Wow that’s just…wow you look so good.”

Kimmy smiled, Sally patted her shoulder and said, “We’ll see you guys up there” as she left.  Kimmy turned to help Brad.

After spending the early afternoon at the pool everyone took the afternoon to relax and just get some quiet time.  By late afternoon the three couples met in the lounge while the kids were off for more play time in the Kidz Zone.  Over drinks they talked about their day and then coordinated dress wear for the evening.

Sally said, “I thought I’d wear something nicer tonight.  We’re going to the live show right after in the theatre, right?”

Allan looked at Mark, “Any idea what the show is Dude?” 

Mark started to answer, paused, and then said, “Not sure….I remember seeing something about it being based on a Disney film, but I don’t think I ever saw which one.”

Kimmy took Mark’s hand and raised an eyebrow.  Mark looked innocently, “What?”

Kimmy dropped her head a notch and raised her eyes, “Something you’re leaving out?”

Mark gave it his best try and said, “I…I….don’t give me that look.”  He chuckled as the other four adults all looked at him starting to laugh.  Kimmy put her hand on his cheek and leaned in, “I think somebody knows something and he isn’t sharing with the group.”

Mark raised both hands.  “OK….ok…so can we all agree that maybe it would be best if we were all surprised and leave it at that?”

Everyone’s attention turned to Kimmy and she sat back.  “OK…good enough that you’ve admitted you’re hiding something.  My work is done here” Laughter broke out around the table.

The live dinner show in the second dining room was a production of the film “Frozen” and everyone enjoyed it.  Again, the kids were captivated and had to be prompted to eat their meal.  The highlight came when the Elsa character came to the table and posed for a picture with Mark, Kimmy and Brad. 

As they all entered the theatre they took a group of six seats in a row mid-theatre and waited for the show to begin.  Brad had his clown blanket and was sitting between Mark and Kimmy.  He held Kimmy’s hand with his free hand while clutching the blanket.  He turned to Mark and said, “Big show, right Dad?”

Mark leaned in and said, “It will be a big surprise, you’re going to love it!”  Brad’s eyes grew big and Kimmy smiled watching the two of them.  Then the lights went down and the music began.  As the curtains rose Peter Pan came flying across the stage.  Brad leaped to his feet, dropped his blanket and yelled “PETER!”  The crowd applauded as the introductory show number opened the production.  Kimmy reached across and put her hand on Mark’s shoulder.  “The BEST surprise ever!” she whispered.  Brad bounced and danced through the entire show, completely lost in Neverland while Mark and Kimmy watched him with quiet smiles that said everything without words.  And when the ship rocked them gently to sleep that night, the laughter and music of the day still echoing faintly in their memories, it seemed perfectly reasonable to believe that maybe—just maybe—it really was better to never grow up.

Here on Gilligan’s Isle

Kimmy stirred slowly as the familiar music of Peter Pan drifted through the quiet stateroom, at first thinking the melody was only lingering in her dreams. When she lifted her head she realized it was very real. Mark was sitting sideways on Brad’s little bed with one arm wrapped around his son, the glow of the iPad reflecting softly across their faces while Brad waved the wooden dagger they had bought at the show the night before like a fearless pirate. His clown blanket was tucked under his chin with the same reverent grip he reserved for all important adventures. Mark noticed Kimmy’s movement and turned, giving her the easy smile that had greeted her nearly every morning of their life together, then blowing her a quiet kiss across the room. Kimmy pushed herself up on one elbow, her smile answering his without a word before she mouthed softly, Love you. Pulling Mark’s oversized shirt a little lower to hide the Minnie Mouse panties she had slipped into before bed, she padded quietly across the room and slid open the veranda door. Warm island air spilled into the stateroom as sunlight shimmered off the turquoise water beyond. “Oh look boys,” she called softly, her voice bright with wonder, “we’ve arrived at Castaway Cay!”

Brad paused the movie immediately and looked up at Mark for confirmation. “Go see Momma, ok Dad?” he asked with solemn responsibility. Mark nodded and together they crossed the room to the railing where the island stretched out before them in bright white sand and palms swaying lazily in the morning breeze. As Mark wrapped his arms around Kimmy’s waist and she leaned back into him, an old childhood melody popped into his head and he began singing quietly in her ear. “The ship’s aground on the shore of this uncharted desert isle…” Kimmy’s shoulders shook with laughter as he continued, improvising his own lyrics, “…with Kimmy Ann, the captain too, a professor and Brad…here on Castaway Cay!” She turned and kissed him gently, shaking her head. “Oh you’re so creative, baby.” In front of them Brad stood on tiptoe gripping the rail with both hands, his nose pressed eagerly against the glass. “See big beach…right Dad? Go beach today? Momma get in water with Brad again…right Dad?” Kimmy knelt beside him and wrapped her arms around his small shoulders. “See that umbrella right over there?” she said, pointing toward the bright shoreline. “We’ll sit under that and build sand castles and play in the water. It’s going to be so much fun.” Mark added enthusiastically, “We can build forts and—” but Kimmy stood suddenly and placed a firm hand on his shoulder, giving him a look that was stern but unmistakably affectionate. “Uh huh…nope. You will not be out in the sun today. We’ve been through enough with your skin already.” Mark tried to protest, but she gently took his face in both hands and pressed her forehead against his. “No. That’s it. I won’t have this handsome man go through that again. Don’t argue…we’re done here.” Mark sighed dramatically before taking Brad’s hand. “Well then, let’s get dressed. Pancakes and sausage await.” Brad spun toward the door shouting “Pancakes! Pancakes!” only to discover he was still wearing his pajamas. He looked down at himself, then back at his parents, and burst into delighted laughter that echoed through the room.

The morning slipped by in the easy rhythm of a perfect island day. Brad raced between the water and the sand with Jillian while Kimmy and Sally laughed and splashed beside them, the children’s shrieks of joy rising above the soft crash of waves. Mark, relegated to the shade of a wide umbrella, watched the scene unfold with a quiet contentment while Allan dragged his beach chair closer and handed him a cold drink. Allan lifted his cup toward the women dancing through the surf. “Kimmy opted not to wear the bikini today, I see.” Mark smiled knowingly, admiring the way Kimmy’s aqua one-piece hugged her curves as she chased Brad through the shallow water. “She was worried a wardrobe malfunction might occur,” he replied dryly. “Not that I’d have minded…just not on a public beach.” Both men leaned back laughing, the warm breeze carrying the salty scent of the sea as they watched the women and children play in the sun.

After lunch and the inevitable afternoon nap for the younger travelers, the six friends regrouped outside the restaurant called 1923, where their familiar waiter Alfonso greeted them with a warm smile and menus already in hand. Mike glanced around curiously. “So…no live show tonight?” Alfonso gestured grandly toward the walls. “No performance, Mr. Mike, but this room is filled with original animation cells from Disney films. And in the back…” he added with a theatrical flourish, “…two rooms dedicated to Snow White and Peter Pan.” Brad’s head snapped upright instantly. “Peter Pan? Where Peter Pan?” he demanded, already climbing out of his chair. Kimmy gently placed her hands on his shoulders. “Peter’s not here, sweetheart.” Brad looked at Mark with deep concern. “Peter…where he go, Dad?” Mark leaned close and pointed toward the back hallway. “Just pictures of Peter Pan in there. We’ll go see them later.” Brad thought about this for a moment before nodding decisively and turning back to the table. “Momma…chicken nuggets and tatoes pease. Lots of tatoes.” Laughter rippled around the table while Alfonso promised Mr. Brad’s potatoes would arrive promptly.

Later, wandering through the restaurant displays, Brad tugged eagerly at Mark’s hand toward the Peter Pan room while Kimmy slipped her arm through Mark’s and leaned close, whispering playfully in his ear. “In here, right Dad? Go swimming, right Dad? Have tatoes, right Dad?” Mark laughed softly and kissed her cheek. “Guess I’m the designated man for all things.” Kimmy squeezed his arm and smiled to herself. And you’re my man.

That night, as the ship gently rocked beneath them, Brad curled against his mother while she read from the worn pages of Peter Pan’s Adventures in Neverland. His clown blanket rested just below his nose, clutched in both fists as he fought bravely against sleep before finally surrendering. Kimmy tucked him in tenderly and slipped into bed beside Mark, her shirt falling loosely from one shoulder as she settled beneath his arm and rested her hand over the steady beat of his heart. “So tomorrow’s the last day,” she whispered softly, then giggled. “It’s been great…right Dad?” Mark chuckled quietly. “The best.” She raised her head slightly. “What are we doing tomorrow?” Mark’s hands moved gently across her back in a slow, soothing massage. “Well…in the morning I have a surprise. One you will definitely enjoy.” Kimmy lifted her head suspiciously. “What’s that chuckle about?” “Just thinking about the ‘right Dad’ thing,” he replied innocently. She murmured contentedly as his hands moved lower across her shoulders. “Oh yes…right there.” Mark continued thoughtfully.  “And I’m sure the kids will want more play time in the Kidz Zone….and then in the afternoon…

Kimmy lifted her head, “Wait….aren’t you forgetting something?” and her eyes sparkled with a mischievous grin on her face.  Mark smiled, “I’ve not forgotten – tomorrow is Thursday, our day.  The playtime – see how I just subtly snuck that into the plans, I’m so clever sometimes.”

Kimmy giggled again, “OK…..because that’s non-negotiable for the schedule.  And dinner, is it a show or no?”

Mark thought, “Um, I think on a four night itinerary like ours, we go back to 1923 tonite.  But there is a Disney animated film in the theatre.  Pretty sure it’s “Robin Hood.”  Maybe we’ll get a new favorite film, you think?”

Kimmy giggled again, “Oh you’re not going to get out of Peter Pan time for a long time yet I’m afraid.”

Mark switched off the light then continued to massage Kimmy’s back and shoulders gently.  Mark switched off the lamp and continued tracing gentle circles across her back as the ocean whispered outside the veranda door. “Just imagine we’re flying over Neverland,” he murmured. “Can you see it?” The dark sea slipped silently past the hull of the Disney Magic as the ship carried them deeper into the night, another adventure already waiting just beyond the horizon.

Day 4 – Sailing, sailing over the ocean blue

As Kimmy finished tugging Brad’s little shorts into place she glanced over her shoulder at Mark, who was pulling his Mickey polo over his head with an unmistakably mischievous grin. “So what’s this big surprise I’m supposedly going to like this morning?” she asked suspiciously. Mark only chuckled and smoothed the shirt down. “Oh, you’ll see,” he replied easily. “Ready for breakfast, buddy?” Brad’s face lit up immediately. “We can go to beck-fast, right Dad?” he asked as he marched over and slipped his hand confidently into Mark’s. Then he turned and beckoned to his mother. “‘Momma, ‘mon…beck-fast time…right Dad?” Kimmy laughed softly and followed her two boys down the hallway to the elevator. Mark guided them along Deck 3 until they reached a cozy little restaurant tucked along the corridor beneath a sign that read The Bayou. Kimmy’s eyes brightened. “Oooooh…New Orleans style. Do they have—” Mark slipped an arm around her shoulders and kissed her forehead. “Beignets. Oh yes ma’am they do…with oh-so-much powdered sugar. And I know you like lots of powdered sugar, baby.” Kimmy burst into laughter immediately while Brad looked between them in complete confusion before climbing proudly into the booth.

When Mark ordered three plates of the sugary pastries he leaned toward Brad conspiratorially. “You know how you like doughnuts?” Brad nodded solemnly. “These are even better. And one time when Momma and Dad were traveling on another big boat…” Brad turned to Kimmy with wide curiosity. “Momma funny? Right Dad?” Mark glanced at Kimmy, who was already shaking her head with a grin, and finished the story. “…Momma got powdered sugar all over her face.” Brad’s laughter erupted instantly. “Momma! Sugar on face! Why you do that Momma? Momma funny…right Dad?” Both Mark and Kimmy laughed as Mark scrolled through his phone and found the picture from Vienna. Brad pulled the phone close and giggled uncontrollably. “Momma! Sugar everywhere!” Just then Allan, Sally, and Jillian slid into the booth beside them. “Morning Dude,” Allan said with a grin. “What’s the little man laughing about?” Kimmy shook her head and waved toward Mark. “Go ahead…tell the story.” Mark passed the phone around while the picture drew delighted smiles. “So on our first river cruise together along the Danube, we stopped in Vienna and visited Schönbrunn Palace. I told Kimmy they had the best strudel in all of Europe. We each ordered a plate…” Kimmy raised a finger dramatically. “Wait…let the record show this next part was all part of my very clever plan.” She squeezed Mark’s arm with a playful smile. Mark lifted an eyebrow but continued. “…so we’re eating and suddenly I look over and my girl here looks like she’s been in a snowstorm at a bakery. Powdered sugar everywhere. If you zoom in you can even see it on her forehead.” The entire table erupted with laughter. Kimmy wiped tears from her eyes and leaned closer to Mark. “But the best part,” she said softly, her eyes shining, “was after he wiped all the sugar off my face…he kissed me. Twice.” Sally clasped her hands with delight. “Oh that’s such a romantic story.” Just then the waitress delivered their beignets and Brad promptly buried his entire face into the powdered sugar-covered pastry. He lifted his head triumphantly with white dust covering his cheeks and nose. “Dad! Look at Brad! Just like Momma!” The table exploded with laughter again as Kimmy wagged a finger at Mark. “See what you’ve started?” Mark lifted his hands innocently while Kimmy mouthed I love you and gently brushed the sugar from Brad’s face.

After breakfast the children were dropped off at the Kidz Zone, and Sally turned toward them cheerfully. “You two want to join us at the pool while the kids play?” Mark squeezed Kimmy’s hand lightly and she caught the signal immediately. “Ummm…sure,” she replied carefully. “We just need to stop back at the room first. We’ll join you in…in a little bit.” Sally stared at her for a moment before her eyes widened in sudden realization. “Oh…OH. Today’s Thursday, isn’t it?” Allan frowned. “It is…but what’s that got to do with anything?” Sally simply patted his arm and started walking. “Let’s head to the pool, honey.” Kimmy grabbed Mark’s hand and pulled him toward the elevator. “C’mon,” she laughed softly. “You had something for me this morning…now I’ve got something for you.”

The rest of the day drifted past in the easy rhythm that only sea days seem to carry. The children played happily in the Kidz Zone, the pool sparkled beneath the warm sun, and the great ship glided steadily across open water while laughter and music floated along the decks. By evening the Disney Magic was sailing peacefully toward home. In their stateroom Kimmy held up a sleek black dress with thin spaghetti straps and studied it thoughtfully. “How about this for our last night?” Mark smiled from the bed. “I can’t think of a single thing you don’t look good in, but the little black dress will definitely do the job tonight.” When she stepped out of the bathroom a few minutes later smoothing the dress over her hips, she pushed her glasses lightly up her nose and asked, “Look okay? It’s a little dim in the restaurant.” Brad glanced up from his iPad and grinned proudly. “Momma pretty…right Dad?” Mark pulled Kimmy gently into his arms and kissed her forehead. “Momma is very, very pretty buddy.”

Dinner in the 1923 dining room felt warm and celebratory as the group gathered one last time. Plates arrived, laughter flowed easily, and Mike eventually raised his glass with a contented smile. “To an amazing journey with amazing friends,” he said warmly. “We’re so glad you all came with us. We’re going to have to do another trip together.” Glasses lifted around the table and clinked softly together while smiles passed from one face to another. Outside the windows the last streaks of sunset faded into deep ocean blue as the Disney Magic carried them quietly toward home, leaving behind four days of laughter, friendship, and the kind of small moments that somehow turn into the memories people carry for the rest of their lives.

Day 5 – Home Is Where The Heart Is

The jetliner touched down so smoothly that Brad never stirred. The gentle hum of the engines slowing was the only sign the journey had ended. Kimmy squeezed Mark’s arm and he turned toward her. Her bright eyes held his for a moment, the look saying everything they both felt but didn’t need to speak aloud. Home. Mark stood in the aisle while Kimmy reached up for their bags, then carefully unfastened Brad’s seat belt and lifted the sleeping boy onto his shoulder. Brad shifted slightly, his cheek pressing against Mark’s neck as he murmured through his dreams, “Hook a bad bad man…right Dad?” Mark smiled softly and patted his back. “That’s right, buddy.” The little boy drifted immediately back into sleep. Allan stepped aside so Sally could move past carrying Jillian in much the same fashion, the quiet choreography of tired parents shepherding their sleeping children through the aisle.

At the luggage carousel the four adults stood together watching suitcases circle slowly past while they shared the easy laughter that follows a good trip. Memories of Spider-Man dinners, powdered sugar breakfasts, and Brad’s wide-eyed wonder flowed freely until Kimmy glanced toward Sally. “Why don’t you guys come over next weekend? Spaghetti night.” Allan’s face brightened instantly. “Nothing like Kimmy spaghetti,” he said with a grin. “Sounds good, right Sal?” Sally nodded warmly. “See you on the courts Monday after the kids get to pre-school?” Kimmy tilted her head playfully. “You know I enjoy kicking your butt.” Sally laughed under her breath. “Oh you wish, girl.”

The car rolled slowly into the driveway beneath the familiar trees. Mark glanced back at the rear seat where Brad remained deeply asleep. “Still out,” he said quietly. “I’ll keep the car running and the headlights on until you get him inside.” Kimmy nodded and carefully lifted Brad from his seat, the boy draping instinctively against her shoulder. Mark unlocked the front door and held it open while she carried their son inside. “I’ve got the bags,” he said softly. “Don’t come back out…no, don’t even think about it.” Kimmy smiled and disappeared down the hallway. Outside, the night air felt cool and welcoming after the long journey. Mark grabbed the mail from the box and tucked it into his pocket before opening the trunk. The matching suitcases from their Alaska honeymoon slid easily into his hands, followed by Brad’s smaller one with the plush Mickey perched proudly on top. He carried that bag first, padding quietly down the hallway just as Kimmy finished tucking Brad into bed.

Brad lay peacefully in his Peter Pan pajamas, his clown blanket resting across his chest exactly the way he liked it. Mark set Mickey gently beside the pillow and Kimmy clicked on the small nightlight before they slipped out, leaving the door slightly open. “He’ll be up early after sleeping so much,” Kimmy whispered. “I can get up with him for Peter Pan time.” Mark shook his head with a smile. “Oh no you don’t. We’ve got some serious boy talk to cover tomorrow.” Kimmy reached for his hand and squeezed it gently. “You know you’re a great dad, don’t you?” Mark’s eyes softened as he took her other hand as well. They stood quietly for a moment in the hallway before he spoke. “We’re lucky,” he said softly. “We’ve made some pretty good choices along the way. Join me for one more drink…on the porch?” Kimmy rose on her toes and kissed him tenderly. “I’ll always meet you anywhere you ask, honey.”

A few minutes later Mark stepped onto the porch carrying two glasses of wine. The night air was still and cool, the faint music of the creek drifting upward from below. Kimmy was already seated on the sofa, wrapped in the oversized shirt she had claimed as her own long ago, her gaze lost somewhere out over the railing where moonlight shimmered across the slow-moving water. Without turning she slipped her arm through his as he sat beside her, their shoulders settling comfortably together. “I think I chose you long before I even realized I would,” she said softly into the quiet night. “Every time we were together I remember thinking how peaceful and happy I felt. Like the world just…fit better.” Mark felt his chest tighten.  He replied, “And if I’m honest, I knew it was you. I always wondered why when my phone lit up and I saw ‘KIMMY’ on the screen I’d get that funny, warm feeling.”

When she finally turned toward him a tear had slipped down her cheek. “What’s wrong, baby?” Mark asked gently, pulling her closer. Kimmy rested her head on his shoulder and cried quietly for a moment while he stroked her hair, giving her time to gather herself. Eventually he felt the familiar sigh—the one that meant she had found the courage to say what was on her mind. “I was just thinking about how wonderful that cruise was,” she whispered. “Watching Brad light up at everything…being there with our friends…” Mark nodded slowly. “Yes…but that’s not a sad thing,” he said gently. “There’s something else.” Kimmy’s voice trembled again. “I just realized how close we came to missing all of that. How lonely I would have been if…” Her words dissolved into tears once more. Mark’s own eyes grew damp as he lifted her chin with a soft smile. “Hey…no tears,” he murmured. “I’m right here. I chose you. I’ll always come back to you—you know that, right? And I’ve got two very good reasons why.” Kimmy’s eyes brightened faintly. “I do know…two reasons. Brad and me?” Mark chuckled and shook his head. “Well yes…of course. But I was thinking more about Tuesdays and Thursdays.” Kimmy’s laughter burst free instantly, the tension breaking like sunlight through clouds. She wiped her eyes and leaned into him again. “I love you so, so much.” Together they sat quietly, looking out over the moonlit creek and the winding path beyond the porch—the path that would carry them forward, step by step, into whatever came next…always choosing each other along the way.