The invitation had been sitting on the counter for two weeks before the decision was made to attend. Their mother had made arrangements for all of the grandchildren to be in one location with a couple of sitters to make sure all of them got special attention that night.

And now New Year's Eve had arrived. She had gone to a special hairstylist who did wonders with her hair earlier in the day and was now home, putting on her ball gown.

"You look stunning," a male voice said behind her.

"Thank you," she said, looking at him in the mirror. "Could you come zip up the back? I'm having trouble reaching it."

"Of course," he said, moving over so he could zip up the gown. Once the task was finished, he put his hands on her shoulder and allowed them to slowly glide down her arms.

"If you keep that up, we will never get out of here."

"And that's a bad thing?" he asked, a smile filling his face.

"Your mother will have a conniption if we don't show, Jim."

"We could always tell her one of us got sick," Jim offered.

"I don't think so, but good try."

"Thanks."

"So, is Katje all settled at the Manor House?" Trixie asked.

"She's fine. She is so excited to be with the others."

"That's good," Trixie said as she lifted a blue heart-shaped pendant on a gold chair to secure around her neck.

"Let me clasp that for you." Jim took the ends of the chair and secured it so the blue pendant hung perfectly around her neck.

"Thank you," Trixie said as she ran her hands over the silky smooth blue satin that hugged her figure perfectly.

The gown was sleeveless, the white satin bodice with its narrow center strip of dark blue giving way to a floor length light blue satin skirt with a small train. A small sequined blue heart sat at the center of the bodice, and matched the hearts on the white straps that rested on her shoulders. She wore white gloves that extended to just above her elbows, and the white mask she would wear, with its blue sequined hearts at the outside corner of each eye, waited on the bed.

"You are definitely going to be the belle of the ball," Jim said, wrapping his arms around her waist from behind. He pulled her back against him.

"I think you'll be the most handsome guy there," Trixie said as she slowly turned in Jim's arms.

"Thank you, my dear," Jim leaded in and gave her a kiss.

Trixie reached her hand up and placed it on the back of Jim's neck, deepening the kiss.

"I could easily keep this up all night," Jim said when they finally broke apart, breathing quickly. "But we are expected at the ball."

"You're right," Trixie said. "Can I get a raincheck?"

"I'll mark it on the calendar to continue later."

A smile filled Trixie's face. "I'm looking forward to it."

The doorbell rang and Jim said, "Our ride is here. We need to go."

"I'm ready," Trixie said as she grabbed her mask and matching blue purse. "Let's go ring in the new year."

Trixie and Jim slid their masks on as the limousine pulled up in front of the country club. The door was opened and Jim stepped out first. He held out his hand, assisting Trixie as she stepped out onto the snow-cleared walkway.

Together they made their way toward the glass revolving doors. On each side of the door was a life-size holiday window display depicting children at play in the snow.

As they stepped inside, a gentle breeze of warm air greeted them, pushing the cold weather outside out of their mind.

Trixie loosened the cape that had been covering her shoulders, and slid it over her arm. She took Jim's arm as they made their way toward the main hall. They saw beautiful green garlands and red bows hung about every window, and a battery-operated candle on each sill.

Each table was adorned with a red or green tablecloth. A three-piece candelabrum was placed in the middle, surrounded by pine branches.

A giant Christmas tree stood at the far end of the hall, decked out with a silver garland and lights of every color. A band was set up on a wooden platform stage playing soft music as people mingled.

They slowly made their way through the gathering crowd greeting people and trying to figure who was hidden behind the masks. The reveal would come just before midnight.

When they found their table, they were able to quickly identify their fellow Bob-Whites and greeted them accordingly.

Looking about the gaily decorated club, Trixie realized everything looked magnificent. But even so, Trixie felt an unease settle on her. She was terrified she'd do something to embarrass her husband or in-laws. And knew that with her luck, she was going to make a spectacle of herself. It always happened.

Dinner was a lively affair, talking and enjoying the evening with her best friends. Trixie struggled throughout the meal, fearful that she would drop her glass or use the wrong utensil, or even spill something on her gown.

When dinner was finally over and dishes were cleared from the table, Jim offered her his arm and they moved out onto the dance floor as a ballad was played.

She settled her head against his chest as he held her tight. She felt physically content because she was with the man who meant the world to her. She knew she was truly blessed that they were together.

The next song sped up and she was suddenly spun around and ended up in the arms of someone she didn't recognize. The music continued, along with the switching of partners.

By the time the song came to an end, Trixie was breathless and on the far side of the hall. She thanked her partner and declined the offer for the next dance. The music picked up and she glanced around trying to spot her husband.

She had not taken more than a few steps when she was dragged out onto the floor. The music was even faster than before and the gentleman that held her didn't seem to want to stop moving to the music.

"You're the most wonderful dancer there is," he said into her ear as he pulled her close.

"Thank you," Trixie said trying to break free. "But I need to find my husband."

"Don't lie to me," he said. "I know you're here alone." His words were slurring more as each moment passed. "We were destined to find ourselves this New Year's so that we can begin the New Year together."

Trixie pushed against the man, wanting to get away, and knowing the man probably didn't realize what he was doing, since he was so drunk.

"I need to go to the ladies room," Trixie finally said.

"I'll wait right here."

"All right," Trixie said.

Trixie turned and as quickly as possible made her way in the opposite direction from the man. She hoped she could locate Jim before anyone else pulled her out onto the dance floor.

She moved through the crowds of people, knowing the evening was turning out a way she didn't like. She just wanted to be back with Jim before anything else happened.

The lights dimmed even more, making her search more difficult. The only light came from the lights hanging above the tables. People jostled her as they made their way back forth from the bar. She just hoped none of them would spill their drinks on her dress.

"Hey beautiful," a deep voice said. "Wanna dance?"

Trixie turned to see a man with a full white mask staring back at her. The dark tuxedo blended in perfectly with his dark hair.

"I'm sorry, do I know you?" Trixie asked cautiously, not wanting to get paired up with a stranger.

"Of course you know me," he said, reaching a hand out and caressing her cheek. "We've known each other for years."

"I'm sorry," Trixie said. "But I just can't place it."

"Maybe this will help you remember." The man leaned toward her, intending to have their lips meet.

But Trixie backed away. She wasn't going to allow anyone she didn't know or recognize to kiss her.

"Come on," he said. "I'm not going to hurt you."

"Excuse me," Trixie said quickly. "My sister-in-law is waving to me."

Before the man could say anything, she was on her way. She continued walking until she returned to the table where they had been seated for dinner.

"Thank goodness you're here," Trixie said, sliding into the seat beside her brother. "You would not believe some of the people that are here."

"Oh, I would," Mart said, sitting up straighter. "There have been so many guys coming onto Di, I came close to decking a couple."

"All they wanted to do was dance," Di said. "They didn't mean any harm."

"And you wanted to dance with them?" he asked incredulously

"I never said that," Di said, as she placed a white-gloved hand on his arm. "There's only one guy I will ever dance with. Ever."

Mart leaned in and gave Di a kiss, forcing Trixie to look away from her brother's public display of affection.

When she was certain the kissing had stropped, she turned back around to see the two of them were staring lovingly at one another.

"So, where are the others?" Trixie asked.

"Brian and Honey were whisked away by Mrs. Wheeler to meet a few people," Di said.

"And Dan is out on the dance floor with Kristi," Mart said.

"I have to admit they make a great couple," Trixie said as she spotted the people they were talking about. "I wasn't sure about Kristi as first, but now I think they are the perfect couple."

"I have to agree with you," Di said. "Kristi is the perfect match. I wouldn't be surprised if there is an announcement coming from them in the near future."

Trixie turned her gaze to Di. "Do you really think so?"

"It's entirely possible," Di said. "And I don't think it could happen to anyone better."

"He deserves happiness," Trixie said. "He's grown to such a different person than he was that first day he arrived in Sleepyside. It's definitely been a change for the better."

"It sure is," Di said. "I adore the Dan Mangan that's in our lives."

"So, where's Jim?" Mart asked, switching subjects.

"I'm not entirely sure," Trixie said, looking around the room. "We were dancing and then the partners got switched. From there I lost track of him."

"He's got to be around here somewhere," Di said as she also looked around.

"It's not a problem," Trixie said. "He'll turn up sooner or later."

"That he will," Di said.

A slow song began to play and Mart looked at Di. "Would you care to dance, m' lady?"

Di looked at Trixie. "We shouldn't..."

"Go ahead," Trixie insisted. "I'm a big girl. I can sit at a table by myself."

"Are you sure?" Di asked

"I'm sure."

"Let's go," Mart said as she stood up with Di's hand in his own. Together they made their way around the table and disappeared into the throngs of dancers.

As Trixie watched the dancers, she wondered where her husband was. In the dim light, it was hard to tell who was who, but she figured she would be able to recognize him with his red hair.

The music continued and she couldn't help but to tap her foot as she sipped her water. She figured drinking something clear would lessen the chance of a stain appearing on her gown.

"I'm so glad to be sitting down," Honey said sinking into the chair beside her best friend. "I can't believe Mother felt the need to talk about it tonight."

"Talk about what?" Trixie asked.

"The spring tea and fashion show," Honey said. "We know it is coming up, but we don't need to discuss it tonight. I want to spend time with my friends and family as we ring in the New Year. I don't want to do business."

"I'm sorry," Trixie said.

"It's not your fault," Honey said. "I should have really thought about it before I agreed to help."

"Well, you've broken away from that now, and if anyone else wants to talk about it, just tell then you would prefer to wait until you have your notes in front of you so that you don't make a mistake about anything."

Honey looked at her with a critical eye. "What have you done with Trixie? That is not a normal response."

Trixie smiled. "Maybe some of Jim's patience is rubbing off on me."

"Yeah, right."

"I think it has," Trixie insisted. "I mean, I haven't been as impulsive as in the past. I've also had to have patience with Katje since she's still so little and is not really aware of what is going on."

"That is a good point. And your advice is good too. That is definitely a great way of getting out of talking business tonight."

Trixie smiled.

At that moment Brian returned to the table carrying two drinks. He set one in front of Honey before sitting next to her.

"It looks like you were out there having fun on the dance floor," Brian commented.

"It was fun, but I kept switching partners. And you know there is only one person I ever really want to dance with."

"And where is that person?" Brian asked.

"I haven't seen him since we got separated," Trixie said, glancing around the country club. "He probably got stopped by someone on his way back to the table."

"Isn't that Jim over there by the wall watching you?" Honey asked.

"Where?" Trixie asked.

"Over by the way," Honey said as she pointed in the direction opposite their table.

The masked man, wearing the unique white mask Trixie had purchased, with a small blue heart near the bottom of the front that extended toward the bottom of his cheek nodded and Trixie said, "I think we need to dance."

"Go have fun," Honey said.

"We will," Trixie said as she stood up.

She carefully made her way around the other attendees toward her husband. She was anxious to dance with him again. When they move to the music, it seemed as if they were the only people in the world.

He met her on the dance floor as a ballad began to play. She stepped close to him as he took her in his arms holding one hand in his and the other around her waist.

Trixie snuggled closer and closed her eyes. She realized how much she preferred to be in Jim's embrace, rather than someone else's.

"This is turning out to be a perfect evening," Trixie said, leaning her head on his chest. "I feel bad we got separated earlier. But hopefully there won't be another partner switch so we won't have to go through that again."

She felt him nod his head and knew he felt the same way.

They continued to slow dance even as faster songs were played, A few songs later, Trixie lifted her head and looked at him. She smiled at him. He returned the smile and led her off the dance floor in the opposite direction of their table.

"Where are we going?" Trixie asked as they passed other party-goers who were wrapped up in the festivities.

He squeezed her hand, but kept moving. He led her down a hall and then turned a corner. At the next corner, he turned again and quickly pulled her into a darkened room, slamming the door shut behind her.

"Jim, what are you doing?" Trixie demanded, yanking her arm away from him. "We're here at the ball and this isn't the time."

"Like I'm interested in that with you," a male voice said that she didn't recognize. "And I'm not Jim."

The lights clicked on and Trixie gasped. The man in front of her had brown hair, but could easily be mistaken for her husband in the dark.

"Where is my husband?"

"He's been... detained."

"I'm out of here," Trixie said as she moved toward the door.

"I don't think so," a second male voice said behind her.

Trixie spun around, her heart hammering in her chest, knowing that voice.

Sitting in the shadows of the corner of the room was the one man she hated the most in the world.

"Jonesy," she said through gritted teeth,

"Why, Trixie, is that any way to greet your stepfather-in-law."

"You are not my stepfather-in-law," Trixie said. "You're no relation to me or Jim."

"That's where you are wrong," Jonesy said as he stood up. "That boy was mine. But you stuck your nose into something that was none of your business." He moved toward her. "But that does not concern me anymore because I am about to get what I am owed."

"No one owes you anything," Trixie said. "You treated Jim like a slave, not a son. You don't deserve anything."

"I deserve everything you stole from me and I am going to claim what is rightfully mine."

Trixie took a step back and was shocked when she bumped into someone. She turned slightly to the man. In that instant, Jonesy grabbed her hand and flung her across the room.

Her head cracked against the wall and her vision faded as Jonesy and the man approached her.

Music. A beautiful slow song penetrated the darkness of his mind. He wondered who was playing that music. It was not something he usually listened to. Neither did his wife.

As he slowly became aware of his senses, he could feel a pounding in his head and realized that his body was cold. Knowing he had to find out where he was, he forced his eyes open. Everything moved in front of his eyes and he quickly closed them, as he felt sick.

He rolled onto his side, relishing the moment his head touched the cold of the snow. His brain registered that he was outside. As his body began to shiver, he knew he needed to find warmth inside. Rolling onto his stomach, he slowly lifted himself off the ground. Once he was upright, he took a few tentative steps to judge his balance. He was a little unsteady, but he knew he had to move.

His vision was blurry still, so he took it slow, hoping he was going in the right direction. He thought he saw a door and hoped his mind wasn't playing tricks on him.

After what seemed like an eternity, he reached his destination. His hand slid down the door and found the knob. He turned it and sighed in relief when the door opened. He slipped inside, soaking in the warmth.

"Jim There you are!"

He grimaced at the loud voice.

"There are a couple people I want you to...Jim? What's wrong? You're as white a sheet."

Jim wanted to respond, but his entire body started to shake uncontrollably. His legs seemed to turn to rubber and he began to fall.

"I got you, son," Matthew Wheeler said, wrapping his arm around Jim's shoulder. "You'll be all right."

"Dad..." Jim stammered.

"I've got you."

"Matt, there you...Jim? What happened?"

"Get Brian and Trixie now," Matt said. "Well be fine."

"All right."

"Let's go in here, son."

Jim didn't argue. He couldn't. He just wanted to go to sleep with the warmth of the room seeping into his frozen body.

"Jim, talk to me, son," Matt urged. "Tell me what happened. Tell me how you got so cold."

"Not sure," Jim managed through chattering teeth.

He was vaguely aware of his father removing his tuxedo jacket and wrapping it around him.

"It's all right," Matt said. "Your mother will get Brian and Trixie and bring them here."

Jim tried to focus on his father's voice, but he just wanted to sleep. He was so cold and wanted warmth.

"Jim!" a voice snapped.

He slowly lifted his head and looked into the eyes of his brother-in-law.

"Hey, Brian."

"How are you doing?" Brian asked, looking him over carefully.

"Very tired," Jim said. "And cold."

"You'll warm up soon," Brian said. "Now, I need you to answer a few questions for me, okay?"

"Okay."

"Who is your wife?"

"Trixie."

"What is your job?"

"Administrator of Ten Acres Academy."

"Do you have any children?

"A daughter. Katje."

"And where are you now?"

"At the Country Club Masquerade Ball."

"Okay. Your memory seems to be okay. Now, I've got a couple more."

"Then can I sleep?" Jim asked.

"Sure."

"Ask away."

"Now, are you hurt anywhere? Any pain?"

"Just my head." Jim reached for the back of his head and winced as he touched it.

"Let me take a look." Brian moved around to Jim's back and gently probed Jim's scalp, making him wince when he touched the bump.

"Oww."

"Sorry," Brian said as he moved back to the front.

"What do you think, Brian?" Matt asked.

"I think he has a concussion, but the only way to be certain is if he takes a trip to the hospital," Brian answered. "And he's suffering a bit of hypothermia. He should go to the hospital."

"No," Jim said, struggling to his feet. "No."

"Sit down," Matt said, guiding his son back down. "We did not say we were going. Now, relax before you fall."

"I am so tired," Jim said, resting his head on his arms. "Where's Trixie?"

"Your mother is getting her," Matt said.

"Here are the blankets," Mart said, coming into the room.

"Thanks," Brian said and quickly wrapped them around Jim to give him more warmth.

"We've got a problem," Honey said hurrying into the room with Di, Dan and her mother right behind.

"What is it?" Matt asked.

"We can't find Trixie."

"What?" Jim asked, quickly lifting his head off his arms and wincing at the sudden movement as he jerked to his feet. His body began to sway and he was lucky when his father and Brian caught him.

"We've looked everywhere," Honey said.

"It seems as if she disappeared," Di said.

"This was done on purpose," Jim said, struggling to stay on his feet.

"Jim, you need to sit down," Brian scolded. "You are in no condition to do anything."

"I need to find Trixie," Jim said, sinking to the chair.

"Jim, what happened after you finished dancing?" Honey asked.

"I was dancing with someone and then someone else. The switching went on for a bit. When that ended, I talked with Dad and a few people he wanted me to meet. Then I went to get a drink. And that's it until I woke in the cold."

"But Trixie went to dance with you," Honey said. "She saw you and went to you."

"I haven't seen Trixie since that dance."

"Then that was a decoy to get Trixie," Brian said.

"We've got to find her," Jim said.

"Dan, go see if you can find Molinson," Brian said. "I know I saw him earlier."

Dan left.

"What should we do?" Di asked. "Should we go looking for Trixie?"

"No," Brian said. "Just go back out to the ball and try to act as if everything is fine. It's possible that the have someone keeping tabs on all of us."

"You will keep us posted, right?" Mart asked.

"We will," Brian said.

"Okay," Mart said.

Mart left the room with Di and Madeleine.

"Why tonight?" Jim groaned. "Why?"

"Don't worry, son. We'll find her."

"What's going on?" Sergeant Molinson asked as he entered the room with Dan.

"Jim was attacked and Trixie is missing," Brian said. "We have a feeling the two incidents are connected and need to find her before something happens."

"We'll start a search," Molinson said. "I'll call an ambulance for Jim and once he's on his way..."

"No," Jim interrupted. "I am not going anywhere. I'm going to help find Trixie."

"I really don't think that's wise," Molinson said.

"Then I'll find her myself," Jim said, struggling to his feet. "Thanks for nothing."

"Take it easy, son," Matt said. "We all will look for Trixie."

"What's the game plan?" Dan asked.

"We'll start looking around," Molinson said. "I'll go check the front door to see if she was seen going that way. The four of you should start checking the offices and other rooms. She may be holed up there."

"Then let's get going," Jim said.

"You stay with Brian," Molinson said. "I don't want to deal with Trixie if something else happens to you."

"Let's move," Dan said.

They all left the room with Brian staying close to Jim. They began searching the country club for some sign of Trixie or who may have been involved. They were well aware that timing was a factor.

"This evening is such a disaster," Jim said as he and Brian searched for Trixie.

"Don't worry, Jim," Brian said. "We will find her. She couldn't have gotten to far."

"But who took her?" Jim asked. "Why would someone go to such lengths? I mean, why have someone who looks like me? Trixie wouldn't fall for it."

"Could it be someone from one of their past cases out for revenge?"

"That list is long and Molinson is probably already checking," Jim said.

"But what do you think?" Brian pressed.

Jim stopped and placed a hand on the wall to steady himself. He slowly turned to look at his brother-in-law, the fear evident on his face.

"I'm praying that it's not that monster," Jim said. "But a part of me thinks he would do something this horrible."

"Then we need to find him before he does," Brian said.

Jim straightened up and they continued on. They came to the hall leading to the locker rooms and the gyms. They checked each room, making sure Trixie wasn't there. The weight and aerobics rooms were empty. It was the same with the locker rooms. The area where the treadmills, ellipticals and rowing machines was dark and they carefully examined the room in case someone was hiding in the shadows.

"What else is down here?" Brian asked.

"Just offices that the trainers use," Jim responded, leaning heavily on the wall. His body was screaming for rest, but he couldn't stop. His wife's life depended on it.

"Let's check them out and then we'll find Molinson to see where we should head next."

"All right," Jim said tiredly.

They moved down the hall and began checking the offices, one on each side. They each listened at the door for a moment before trying the knob so that if someone was inside, they wouldn't know someone was at the door.

Jim took a couple extra seconds at each door to make sure he wasn't missing anything since his head was throbbing more as each minute passed, and he feared he would miss a valuable clue.

"Try not to draw attention to yourself," a male voice said.

Jim and Brian looked at one another, but remained silent.

"They may have figured the two of them are no longer in the hall and will be looking. Try to stay in the shadows and away from them or they will follow you back here."

"Got it."

"And find their friend the cop. The dark haired one. If he is not dancing with the girl he came with, then he is searching for her. You need to come back immediately."

"All right."

Hearing the footsteps coming toward them, Jim pushed the door open and they ducked inside. The closed just before the man passed by.

"Call Dan and tell him to get on the dance floor," Brian said. "I'll call Molinson and let him know what's happening."

Jim stared at Brian, not really hearing the words. The voice down the hall made him sick to his stomach. He wondered why his step-father couldn't leave them alone.

"Jim!" Brian said sharply.

Jim shook his head. "What?"

"Call Dan and get him on the dance floor."

"All right." Jim quickly dialed and the phone was picked up on the second ring.

"Dan, get to the hall and dance with Kristi."

"Why?"

"The person involved in Trixie's disappearance is checking up on the others, especially you. If you are not dancing he's supposed to come back here."

"I'll take care of it," Dan said. "Just keep me posted and call Molinson."

"Brian is on that now."

"All right," Dan said and ended the call.

Jim turned in time to see Brian close his own phone.

"Molinson is coming," Brian said. "He also said to stay put."

"We need to get down there to make sure nothing happens to Trixie."

"We're waiting here," Brian stated.

"We can't wait," Jim said. "He's a monster and can do a lot of harm to her."

"Jim, it could be ten times worse if we go in too soon."

Jim groaned and placed his head in his hands. "We're wasting time."

"Molinson is coming. Just hang on."

The minutes that passed were agony for Jim, who wanted nothing more than to barge into the room to rescue his wife. Finally the door opened and Molinson slipped in.

"Let's go get her," Jim said as the door was closed.

"In a minute."

"I've already waited a minute. Let's get Trixie."

"Jim, listen to me," Molinson said. "I know you're worried about Trixie. But without knowing what we're heading toward, we could be putting her in more danger. We need to take this slowly."

"You know what he is capable of," Jim said. "He'll make it ten times worse because it is Trixie."

"We will not let that happen," Brian said.

"How can you promise that?" Jim asked. "Have you truly seen first-hand the level of cruelty this man possesses? Have you been subjected someone's wrath for just being alive? Have you felt the repeated crack of a whip across your back, holding in the pain knowing that if you cried out that the punishment would continue on for hours on end."

"Jim you need to calm down," Molinson said.

"No. I need to get my wife."

Jim pushed past the two of them and headed out the door. He kept moving even as he heard the yell for him to come back.

As he rounded the corner, he slid to a stop at the scene before him.

Jonesy stood in the hallway with an arm around Trixie's waist with a knife pressed against her throat. He could see Trixie's eyes were barely open.

"Let her go, Jonesy," Jim said.

"Forget it," Jonesy said. "She is my security."

"Just let her go. No one will stop you."

"Do you really think I'm that stupid?" Jonesy asked. "Sorry, my boy, but I need her to get what I want."

"What do you want?" Jim asked, wanting to be as close as he could be for any opportunity to rescue his wife.

"Wow. Who knew you could be so accommodating? I'm just so surprised because you never succumbed to my rules before."

"Just let her go," Jim repeated. "I'll get whatever you want. Just don't hurt her."

"Hmmm," Jonesy said. "I'm sorry, but I think you'll be more compliant if I keep her around." Jonesy smiled at Jim. "I'll be in touch, my boy."

Jonesy began dragging Trixie down the hall away from him. He watched her eyes flutter open for just a second before they closed and her body went limp.

But Jonesy kept moving, not surprised at his captives actions.

Jim watched as Jonesy pushed through a door and out into the snow. As the door slammed shut, Jim hurried forward, pushing through the door after them.

He saw Jonesy dragging Trixie through the snowdrifts of the country club grounds. He could see Jonesy was confused as to where he was.

"Let her go!" Jim yelled as he plunged through the snow, the cold quickly making its way through his pants.

"Never!" Jonesy yelled. "She'll pay for what was done. She took away what was rightfully mine."

"It wasn't yours!" Jim yelled. "That was left for me when I was an adult."

"It should have been mine!"

"NO!" Jim yelled.

"I was your guardian. I was given custody of you when your mother died. That money should have been under my control."

"No. It was set aside in a will which you had no control over," Jim said.

"Well then, I'll just have to get what is due to me another way."

Jonesy scooped Trixie up in firemen's carry and plowed through the snow.

Jim followed, hoping to find a way to rescue his wife. He just knew he needed to be close enough should the opportunity arise.

He could tell Jonesy was disoriented and knew he had the advantage. The door Jonesy had exited led directly to the golf course. There were trees scattered throughout the course, but there was no way a vehicle could be hidden there.

Jonesy made a turn and Jim felt his entire body freeze. Jim knew the Jonesy was heading straight toward a pond. It was covered with snow and a thin blanket of ice. The pond would never fully freeze and was a hazard.

"No!" Jim yelled, heading after him to save his wife.

Jonesy picked up his own pace. Jim was breathing heaving and feared what would happen when they reached the ice.

His determination helped push him forward and he slowly gained on Jonesy. He made a dive for his stepfather and all three of them fell to the snow.

Jim lifted himself up on his hands and knees and saw Trixie had rolled a few feet away. She was moving a bit and he hoped she was all right.

"That was stupid, my boy," Jonesy said, his eyes frozen on Jim. "Now, I'll just have to teach you a lesson."

Jim watched as his stepfather stood up. As soon as he was upright, he heard the cracking from the ice.

Suddenly, Jonesy sank out of sight with a yell.

Jim tried to grab him, but it was too late. Jonesy was gone.

"Jim?" Trixie asked weakly.

He turned his head to see two beautiful blue eyes staring at him.

"You're all right," Jim said.

He pushed himself up even more so he could get to her. As he started to stand, he heard the cracking of the ice beneath him. His eyes went wide and he remained motionless. He knew if he moved any more, he would end up in the ice cold water as well.

"Jim?" Trixie asked.

"It's okay," Jim said. "Everything will be okay."

He tried to sound reassuring, but he wasn't calm. His heart was hammering in his chest. From the look in Trixie's eyes, he could see she was terrified.

"Jim."

"Are you okay?" Jim asked, wanting to get his mind off his predicament.

"My head hurts," Trixie admitted and he saw her teeth were chattering. "I'm so cold."

"You'll be okay," Jim said. "Brian and Molinson are coming. Just stay still."

"Okay."

"Now, are you hurt anywhere else?" Jim asked, trying to ignore the movement of the ice beneath his feet.

"I think I'm okay."

"That's good."

"Jim," Trixie said. "I'm scared."

"It's okay. Everything will be all right."

Jim saw the tears begin to fall from her cheeks and fought back his own emotions. He was just as terrified as Trixie about what could happen.

"Just have hope," Jim said. "Everything will be fine as long as you have hope."

The ice finally gave way and as Jim plunged into the freezing water. He heard Trixie scream and thought, I love you Trixie.

Once in the water, he kicked back to the surface. He wasn't going to go without a fight. He broke through and gasped for air. It felt like a vise was squeezing his lungs.

He looked around to where Trixie had been and realized she was no longer there.

Fearing she had also fallen into the water, Jim took as deep a breath as he could and sank into the water to find her. He knew she had been close to him and hoped that if she had fallen in, she was close by.

He used his hands to try to locate her since the water was so dark. Jim kept looking and was at the point that he needed to go up for air.

As his hands swung past one more time, he felt something prayed it was his wife.

Pushing for the surface, his head broke through the water and gasped for air. It was harder to breathe and knew they really needed help. He tugged his arm up and grateful when Trixie's head also broke through the water.

She was unconscious.

"Give me your hand," a voice said.

Jim lifted his head to see Brian inching toward them through the snow on his stomach.

"Take...take...Trix...Trixie," Jim stuttered, his teeth chattering uncontrollably.

"Got her." Brian grabbed her arm and slowly pulled her out of the pond onto the snow beside him.

Jim watched as she was moved away so that she wouldn't accidentally slip back into the water.

"Give me your hand," Brian said.

"So...so...c...c...cold."

"Give me your hand," Brian demanded.

Jim struggled to lift his hand out of the water. Brian grabbed hold of him and dragged him out of the water.

Jim collapsed on the snow and felt the biting cold wind as it blew over his soaked body.

He cringed when her heard Brian say, "She's not breathing."

He watched as Brian gave her two quick breaths and then placed two fingers against her neck for a pulse.

When Brian began performing CPR, Jim felt as if he had died. He couldn't believe what had happened. His gaze never left his brother-in-law as the tears fell freely from his eyes. He didn't realize he was crying and didn't have the energy to wipe the tears away.

His body seemed to be shutting down. He was so cold and couldn't hear anything going on around him.

Beep. Beep. Beep. Beep. Beep.

Warmth. That was the first thing that came to mind. A cocoon of warmth covering the body. Just the thought of moving from the warmth was vetoed.

As sign was released and a voice asked, "Sweetie?"

Having to know where she was, Trixie struggled to get her eyes open. It took a few minutes, but she succeeded. It took more time to bring the room into focus as well as the face of her mother.

"Moms?" she whispered.

"It's all right," Helen said, reaching up and brushing the hair back from her forehead so she could kiss her daughter. "You're all right, sweetheart."

Trixie shivered as a chill swept over her body. She glanced around the room as her brain registered that she was in the hospital.

"Sweetie?"

Trixie focused on her mother again. Her head seemed full of cotton.

"Sweetie, are you cold?" Helen asked.

"A little," Trixie whispered.

"All right," Helen said. "You rest and I'll see if I can get another blanket. And I will explain everything later. I promise."

"Okay," Trixie whispered.

Helen kissed her cheek and left the room.

Trixie closed her eyes and was grateful the blankets on her bed were pulled up to her chin. She knew there were questions she should ask, but just didn't care. She easily fell back to sleep.

Voices penetrated her sleepy head.

"So, she's going to be all right?" a female voice asked.

"She will be. She was lucky."

"What about hypothermia?"

"She is suffering from it, but its no surprise since she was outside in a ball gown and then took a dip in the pond. Her body temperature is still down a bit, but given time, she will be fine."

"What about...?"

"There's no change. The doctors aren't sure why though. We're not sure why he hasn't regained consciousness."

"What a way to start the New Year."

"Everything will be fine, Moms. She will bounce back in no time."

"I just hope so."

"She will."

"Moms?" Trixie asked, slowly opening her eyes.

"Hey, sweetie," Helen said, moving to the bed and giving her a kiss on the cheek. "How are you feeling?"

"Okay," Trixie said, her voice stronger. "What happened?"

"What do you remember?" Brian asked, moving toward the bed. He gave her a kiss on the cheek. "I'm glad you're okay."

"Thanks," Trixie said.

"So, what do you remember?" Brian asked as he sat on the edge of the bed.

Trixie thought back. She remembered Jim taking Katje to the Manor House.

"Jim came home after dropping Katje off and got ready so we could head for the ball. He helped me with my dress and we joked about skipping the ball. It crossed our minds, but we headed for the ball." She looked at her brother. "But that's it. I don't remember anything else."

"All right," Brian said. "I'll fill you in."

Brian went on to explain what had happened at the ball and all that followed.

As she listened, Trixie's eyes went wide at the events that she couldn't remember.

She sat silently for a couple minutes trying to absorb everything. Trixie finally focused on Brian's eyes.

"But I'm going to be okay?"

"You will be," Brian said. "It'll just take some time."

"How's Jim?" Trixie asked. "Is he okay?"

Brian let out a breath. "Jim is still unconscious. He doesn't have any injuries, but he just hasn't come to yet."

"Is there something wrong?"

Brian shook his head. "The doctors have run all kinds of tests, but everything is negative."

"I need to see him," Trixie said. "I need to."

"Sweetie, you are still recovering," Helen said.

"I need to see him now, Moms." She focused on Brian. "Please."

She watched her brother and mother exchange looks.

"Fine, but we need to make sure you are bundled up because it is warmer in here than the rest of the hospital because of the cold you were subjected to."

"Okay."

Within a short while, Trixie was layered in sweatshirts and sweatpants. She also had on three pairs of socks and was wrapped in a couple blankets.

Brian wheeled her out of the room and she immediately felt the change in temperature. She wrapped her hands in the blanket to keep them warm.

She didn't pay attention to where they were going, but finally, they stopped outside a door.

"Push it open," Brian said.

Trixie did as her brother said and he pushed her in.

Trixie saw Matthew, Madeleine and Honey sitting in chairs around Jim's bed. Her eyes quickly went to her husband who was motionless in the bed. He was bundled under blankets like she had been. There was a bandage wrapped around his head.

"How are you feeling?" Matt asked as she was wheeled closer to him.

"I'm okay." She glanced at Jim, before focusing on Matt. "Any change?"

"Not yet."

Madeleine came over to the chair and kneeled beside Trixie before wrapping her in a hug. "We are so glad you're all right."

"Thank you," Trixie said, returning the embrace.

Madeleine leaned back and looked her in the eye. "How are you really feeling?"

"I'm okay." Trixie glanced at her husband. "I'm just worried about him."

"Then talk to him," Honey said, approaching her sister-in-law. "Maybe he just needs to hear your voice."

Trixie looked at her. "Do you think so?"

"Give it a try," Honey said. "It couldn't hurt."

"All right."

Brian wheeled Trixie to the far side of Jim's bed and then left the room with the others.

Alone, Trixie gazed at her husband's face. He was so pale and it scared her.

Swallowing, she said, "Jim, can you hear me?" She reached up and touched his face, surprised it was cold to the touch. "Oh, sweetheart. I wish you would wake up. I'm okay. From what I was told, I'm okay thanks to you. I really wish you would open your eyes so I can thank you properly. I know I truly owe my life to you.

"Please, Jim. Please open your eyes and come back to me. I need you. My life is nothing without you. Katje and I need you. Please listen. We can't do this without you."

Trixie continued watching his face, looking for any sign that he was regaining consciousness, but there was none.

Trixie sat beside the bed for a while, hoping to see Jim coming back to her. But as each minute passed, it seemed like a losing battle. She feared she had lost him forever.

Hearing the door open, she turned to see Brian coming into the room. He moved over to her and crouched beside the chair.

"Anything?"

"No," Trixie said. "Why won't he wake?"

"I don't know. But you need to rest. You are still recovering from the cold and you don't need any setbacks."

"Okay," Trixie said. "Can you help me up for a minute?"

"Sure."

With Brian's assistance, Trixie struggled to her feet and leaned toward her husband. She kissed his lips and whispered, "I love you, Jim."

She slowly sat back down in the wheelchair and Brian pushed her out of the room.

Deep in the recesses of his mind, a familiar voice penetrated the darkness.

"Please, Jim. Please open your eyes and come back to me. I need you. My life is nothing without you. Katje and I need you. Please listen. We can't do this without you."

He looked around trying to find where the voice was coming from. He knew he needed to find it. He knew he would be able to find his way out of the darkness that weighed down on him once he got to it.

The voice continued echoing around him. He used all his might to focus on the voice and its point of origin. As the moments passed, the sound diminished to one point.

As his gaze swept about one last time, he saw a small point of light in the distance. He waited for a moment, wondering if he should head that way. He quickly began moving toward the light as the voice, his wonderful Trixie's voice, spoke to him again.

"I'm here, Jim. I'm right here. I'm okay. Just please hear me and wake up. I need you. Katje needs you. Please, Jim. Come back to us."

As he drew closer to the light, it brightened, and he became more convinced he was heading in the right direction.

"Have the doctors said when you'd be released?"

"Probably in the next day or so," came the reply. "But I don't want to go home without him, Honey."

"It'll be all right, Trixie. He will wake up."

"I hope so."

He heard the voice and needed to see them. It took a couple minutes, but his eyes finally opened. He gazed at the stark white ceiling. He slowly rolled his head to the right and as his vision came into focus, he saw two of the most beautiful people in his life: Trixie and Honey.

Jim swallowed a couple times and then whispered, "Trix?"

They both looked and Trixie was the first to react. "Jim!"

She hurried to the bed and covered his face with kisses. "I'm so glad you're awake."

"Trixie," Jim said.

She leaned back from him and their eyes locked. Jim said softly, "I love you."

Tears filled Trixie's eyes. "I love you, too."

Jim lifted a hand and cupped her chin in his hand. He slowly pulled her close and kissed her lips. Neither of them paid any attention to Honey slipping out of the room.

When they broke apart again, Jim asked, "Are you okay?"

"I'm much better now," Trixie said, sitting on the edge of Jim's bed and holding his hand. "You don't know how happy I am that you are awake."

"It seemed as if I couldn't find my way out," Jim said quietly. "And then I heard this beautiful voice that led me back to you."

"I'm just so glad you're awake. I've been so worried about you."

"I feel the same way," Jim said. "After we fell through the ice, I thought I had lost you forever."

"You'll never lose me."

"And you'll never lose me."

Trixie smiled. "You know, I should have agreed to your original plans for New Year's Eve."

"You mean skipping the ball and spending a quiet night alone?"

"That's it."

"Well, we learned a lesson and should we receive another invitation for a ball, or even a masquerade, we decline and have our own party," Jim said.

"I'm all for that," Trixie said.

"Then let's make a date for just the two of us this New Year."

"You mean the three of us," Trixie corrected.

"Of course, the three of us," Jim said. "I wouldn't have it any other way."

"Neither would I," Trixie said. "I love you, James Frayne."

"I love you, Trixie Belden-Frayne."

Trixie leaned in and gave her husband a kiss.

Things were going to be all right.

The End