Birthday Wishes, Eternally

Dawn 
September 2002

Collinsport, Maine September 1971

Barnabas Collins sat quietly content in his favorite chair in the drawing room of his ancestral home. The cool evening breeze lifted the sheer curtains of the room as he raised his head from the book in his hands and gazed at his companion. Julia Hoffman was so thoroughly absorbed in her medical journal that she was oblivious to the admirous stare directed at her.

The quiet comfort that Barnabas had long felt in Julia's presence was enhanced this evening by the absolute calm and peace she emanated. There were no longer any supernatural beings or events to mar their lives and it showed in her relaxed posture. The stillness that he had long ago associated with Julia was interrupted only by the periodic turning of the pages of her text.

His eyes traveled along from her auburn hair following the chiseled profile to the exposed flesh of her long neck. The dress she had chosen to wear was light and summery with simple flattering lines and an open collar. He was again made mindful of the slenderness of her build as his eyes wandered further down to her belted waistline and even lower to the long line of her legs. Barnabas smiled to himself. He did not know when she had become so dear to him but it really didn't matter. The warmth he felt when in her company had long before ceased to be mere friendship.

Sadly, he returned to his book of sonnets. If only he could find a way to atone for his past mistreatment of her and allow himself to openly acknowledge what both had privately felt for so many years. He had painfully guarded his emotions for so long that he was hesitant to do anything that might destroy the magical friendship they had forged. In his heart, Barnabas knew that Julia could forgive him anything. It was his own tortured heart and memories that held him back. He was still uncertain he could forgive himself. Julia had long deserved so much more from him than he had ever permitted. She still did. The reality of the devotion and love of this modern woman warred with the memories of past loves and obsessions rendering him immobile. He could not seem to take that initial step forward into his true future.

Julia leaned back against the wing of her chair and closed her eyes as she gently rubbed them with her thumb and index finger. The fatigue was quite apparent in the gesture and the slowly released sigh. Her face registered mild embarrassment as she opened her eyes to find him watching her with a gentle smile.

"I think I'll call it a night Barnabas. I'm so tired I can barely keep my eyes open." Julia rolled her head as she massaged her tense neck muscles.

"Small wonder considering how early you left for Wyndcliffe the past couple of days and the number of hours you've been putting in at the hospital. Would you care to stay here or would you prefer that I escort you back to Collinwood?"

"I believe a walk in the night air will be just the ticket to ensure a sound nights sleep, but you needn't bother walking back with me. I will be fine."

"Nonsense. It is no bother at all. Besides, it is too beautiful an evening to waste. Come, I'll see you home." Barnabas rose from his chair and extended his hand to assist her rise from her seat. Draping her sweater over her shoulders, Barnabas ushered Julia into the night.

Fifteen minutes later Julia found herself at the looming doors of the great mansion. It had been a quiet, peaceful walk through the late summer night but Julia was not ready for the evening to end. The warmth and beauty of the night were as hypnotic as the man at her side. She had been extremely mindful of his gentle touch and the softness of his gaze at times during their commute and was as perplexed as ever by his actions. At times, it seemed as though he may actually be seeing her in a capacity other than that of his best friend, but she shook off the preposterous notion. She would not let herself fall into that trap again. Reaching for the door, Julia was startled from her thoughts as Barnabas spoke her name. She turned to look at him as he stood close to her in the bright moonlight.

"Julia, are you free for dinner Saturday night? I thought it might be nice to get away from Collinwood and have a nice meal in town."

"I don't know of anything that would prevent such an evening Barnabas, unless of course something unforeseen happens at Wyndcliffe."

"Perhaps you could secure one of your associates for the evening to ensure that you will be free. Or, better yet, get someone to cover the entire day. Then you could spend the afternoon and the evening in my company." She had glanced away from his intense gaze but turned startled eyes back to him at his last statement. "You've been putting in far too many hours at that hospital of yours my dear doctor," he chided with a smile. "You deserve a day off."

Julia chuckled lightly as she looked back at him. "You make a very persuasive argument, Mr. Collins. A day off sounds lovely. I'll see what I can arrange." She caught the smug look on his face as she watched him. "You have all the answers don't you."

His smile broadened considerably. "I like to think so."

Julia could not contain her laughter as she turned toward the door. "I'll send word about Saturday. Goodnight Barnabas."

"Sleep well, Julia." As she disappeared through the doorway, Barnabas was rewarded with a glowing smile as she turned once more to look his way. It was that image that dominated his thoughts as he walked slowly back to the Old House. He had much to relect upon.

Late on Friday morning Willie returned from a series of errands and paused in the doorway to the drawing room.

"Barnabas, Mrs. Johnson asked me ta drop this off to ya when I got back." He handed the folded note to his employer and waited to see if Barnabas would disclose the contents. "I hope it ain't bad news, Barnabas."

"No Willie," he said with a smirk, "it is not bad news. On the contrary, I assure you." Barnabas was not forthcoming with any more information, which seemed to irk Willie.

"Well, I'm sure glad of that, Barnabas." Seeing that there was no more to be said, Willie turned to leave.

"Willie, I should like to make a trip into town. Would you care to drive? There is something I would like to attend to immediately."

Willie looked at Barnabas with a puzzled expression but did not hesitate in his answer. "Sure Barnabas, whatever you say." He was not so certain that the note had not been bad news, but the look on Barnabas' face made him want to believe his earlier statement. Together, they exited the old manor house.

Barnabas sent Willie on a series of small errands as he attended to his own task. It was mainly a ploy to keep the younger man out of the way while he made his intended purchase. He did not need Willie nosing around and asking a bunch of pointed questions. Willie would learn of the purpose of this trip in good time.

Barnabas smiled slyly to himself as he held the wrapped package in his hand. Slowly, his plans for a memorable evening were coming together. Tucking the box into the pocket of his cape, Barnabas exited the store and walked to the card shop. After searching for nearly fifteen minutes, he had still not located a card that suited his fancy. Each one seemed flawed and unable to convey the sentiments he wanted. Finally resigning himself to the fact that the card he searched for did not exist, Barnabas gave up, deciding that his own words would have to suffice. Perhaps that was just as well. It was high time he put his thoughts and feelings into words.

Barnabas called for Julia on Saturday afternoon. He had kept his plans for this day a secret divulging only the barest details. She appeared on the landing in a lovely camel knit dress with a short, cropped matching jacket with brown trim. The simple elegant dress was flattering to her slender frame and was most certainly a new purchase. There was no way he could have forgotten something as alluring as this number. He smiled in appreciation when he noticed the higher hemline that revealed more of her shapely legs than was customary.

The appraising gaze was not lost on the auburn haired physician. Obviously her new apparel met with the approval of her escort. There was no attempt made at masking his rapt attention and Julia felt a thrill race through her when she again considered his changed manner of late.

"Good afternoon, Barnabas. I hope my attire is suitable for your plans for the day. You have given me very little information to go by." The affectionate berating was accompanied by a soft smile. Barnabas could easily tell that Julia was not upset with his secretive nature and in fact found it rather amusing.

"You are most suitably dressed for the day, Julia. Rest assured, I would have told you if we were undertaking an unusual or uncustomary venture. Now, shall we be on our way?"

Barnabas escorted Julia from the house and to his waiting auto. The trip into town was spent in casual, relaxed conversation. Barnabas laughed heartily as Julia related David's most recent antics. He had heard much of the incident from Roger at the office, but Julia added an entirely new element by relating Roger's reactions. The images her story brought to his mind were priceless. After a brief period of quiet, Julia finally spoke up.

"So, are you going to tell me what this day holds in store or must I be kept in suspense the whole time?" Julia cast her green eyes upon him and was surprised by the smirk on his lips.

"I believe I like the suspense, my dear. I'd say you have no choice, Julia, but to trust me, relax, and enjoy yourself. I do not think you will be disappointed." In an uncharacteristic show of affection Barnabas laid his hand atop Julia's and gave it a gentle squeeze. He was none too eager to pull away afterward.

Julia chuckled slightly at his comment and then felt her heart race at his sudden touch. That caress of his warm hand did nothing to relax her but it certainly was enjoyable.

Some time later, Dr. Julia Hoffman found herself seated on a park bench listening to the hypnotic music of a small stringed ensemble. The warm early fall sunlight was filtered by the large tree behind them as the couple sat in rapt enjoyment. Julia looked slowly over her shoulder to the man at her side. He was obviously lost in the strains of the sounds of the classical music and she took the opportunity to enjoy the sight. Seeing Barnabas so relaxed and contented had been an increasingly familiar sight and it warmed her heart each time she witnessed the transformation. Although embarrassed at being caught watching him so intently as he turned to her, Julia soon broke into a smile that mimicked the one on his face.

Julia felt his arm come around her shoulder as he leaned in to speak softly to avoid disturbing the other patrons. "I gather from your smile that you are enjoying yourself?" It was more a question than a statement.

"Very much, Barnabas. I can't remember a time recently that I have felt this peaceful. Thank you."

"I'm glad Julia. I want this to be a special day for you." He ran his fingers briefly over her upper arm and then returned to the free concert leaving Julia questioning exactly what he was up to. What other surprises did he have in store and why had he chosen TODAY of all days?

At the end of the concert, Barnabas offered Julia his arm as they strolled along the narrow walkway that wound through the park. Young couples lounged under large trees enjoying one of the last warm days Maine could offer. Families were gathered at the playground area as the children climbed over the gym equipment. Others were walking or jogging along the shaded pathways as afternoon rapidly edged toward evening.

As they walked the two blocks to the town center, neither spoke. It was simply one of those times of shared peace where words were unnecessary.

Julia was surprised to find that they were not dining at the local inn, but at a small restaurant up the coast. She had heard several favorable comments on the establishment and was eager to sample the fare for herself.

Dinner and the dinner companionship were excellent. Barnabas treated Julia to unheard stories of his youth and in return she spoke of her own childhood and family. It was refreshing for both to learn that children are inherently the same no matter what century they are born to. Barnabas could not conceal his humor when he heard Julia describe herself as a spindly, frecklefaced tomboy with an inquisitive mind. He could almost envision her as she spoke of her long braids, pale complexion, and boundless energy. He found the image quite endearing. The stories continued well into the latter hours as they shared wine and their friendship with neither wishing to bring the evening to a close.

"Julia, it has been a most enjoyable day. Perhaps you would agree to continue it at the Old House. The moon is full and I believe a walk on the beach may be in order." He held his breath awaiting her answer. He very much wished to spend more of this evening with her in a more private location. There was much he wanted to accomplish on this night.

"I think that would be lovely, Barnabas." There was a shyness that fell across her face that captured Barnabas' attentions. For the first time in a very long time he witnessed the softer, hidden side of Julia Hoffman. It was a side he wouldn't mind knowing much better.

Their stroll on the beach had an enchanted quality that left Julia spellbound as they returned to the Old House. Something was different about Barnabas. He was reservedly solicitous bordering on affectionate. It was truly out of character. For a brief moment she indulged the feelings he elicited before she wondered exactly what he wanted from her now. No, she would not fall victim to his charms again. He was her friend, her dearest friend and that was all he would ever allow between them. Julia stuffed the emerging feelings of hope into the dark recesses of her heart and mind. He would certainly get around to making his desires known in short order. Patience was not his strong suit. Whatever agenda he had for making this day special would soon come to light. For the moment, though, she would merely enjoy the mood and the opportunity to spend some time alone together.

Standing in front of the fireplace hearth with a gentle fire burning to fight the night chill, Julia lost herself in her thoughts. She was startled when Barnabas spoke to her from close to her right shoulder and handed her a glass of sherry. The weak smile and questioning look that he had seen on her face previously made him resolve to reveal his intentions for the evening.

"Julia, there is a reason I wished to spend the evening with you," he began in a soft and reserved voice.

There it was, she thought. He was about to come clean. Now she would know what was going on behind that handsome face of his and what this day had really been about. What did he need her to do now? Before she could respond, he pressed on.

"I have wanted to do something for quite a while now and your birthday seemed the perfect occasion."

Julia turned surprised eyes on Barnabas but was unable to speak as he extended his hand, which held a small, gaily wrapped package. The shock which melted to amused pleasure warmed his heart as she set her drink aside and accepted his gift.

"Happy Birthday, Julia."

"Barnabas Collins, however did you discover it was my birthday?" Julia absent-mindedly fingered the ribbon as she watched his eyebrows rise.

"I have my methods, Julia," came the mysterious reply and a sly smile.

"Which you don't intend to share with me; is that it?"

"Precisely. It would detract from my mystique." Julia's husky chuckle was worth the banter. He nodded toward the package. "Well, aren't you going to open it?"

Julia took a seat in her favorite chair and deftly removed the ribbon and wrapping laying them aside. She noticed the name of the local jeweler in gold type on the cream colored box. For a moment, her heart stood still. Barnabas had never given her a gift of this type before and it seemed that time came to a crashing halt as she lifted the lid. The gasp and hushed reply of appreciation told Barnabas his gift was well received.

"Barnabas, it's beautiful." Julia lifted the oval locket from its velvet bed allowing the chain to sift through her fingers. The large gold oval fit perfectly in the palm of her hand as she fingered the delicate etchings and engravings on the face. The floral design around the perimeter offset the silver heart at the center of the piece. She gazed up at him with misting eyes as she thanked him. He gently pulled her to her feet and stepped around to fasten the clasp around her neck.

"Open it," he gently intoned into her ear.

When Julia opened the locket she was surprised to find that he had enclosed pictures within. She recognized the pictures as ones taken of Barnabas and herself when David had gotten his new camera for his birthday. The impact of the photos was immediate and intense as she snapped the case closed and tried to keep her emotions in check. She swallowed down the lump in her throat and willed away the tears that threatened at the sentimental gift.

"There is something engraved on the back, Julia." His hands rested on her shoulders as he stood unnervingly close to her.

Julia turned the locket over in her shaking hand and read the inscription. It was simple and again stabbed at her heart. 'Julia, Eternally, Barnabas 9/18/71.' She gripped the piece firmly and clutched it to her chest as she wrapped her free arm across her and lowered her head. She was dangerously close to losing control of her emotions. The apparent affection associated with his gift warred with her resolves to protect herself from being hurt and rejected once again. What was he attempting to do with so intimate a gesture and that message? Was she reading too much into this simple gift?

Barnabas had seen her trembling hand and felt the tremor within her body. The ragged intake of breath caused him concern as he saw her draw into herself. The last thing he had wanted to do was cause her any more pain and he slowly turned her toward him. The tears that had threatened for several minutes now freely flowed down her cheeks as she quickly tried to wipe them away.

"Julia?" The tone of concern in his voice and the gentle touch of his hand beneath her chin caused Julia to raise her head and attempt to smile at this confusing man. "What is it? What is wrong?"

Swallowing hard, she took a deep breath and again stroked the precious piece of jewelry. "It is a lovely gift Barnabas and I will always cherish it. It's just..." Julia halted as her voice cracked and she again fought for the tenuous control. "It's just that...it has been a very long time since anyone has cared enough...cared enough to acknowledge my birthday in any fashion let alone make it such a special occasion." She reached up to touch his cheek, then drew her hand away as the dreaded tears forced her to look away. Her voice was very soft as she spoke. "Thank you."

Barnabas stepped closer to Julia, his dearest friend and confidant, the woman who knew him better than any other living being. He was fully aware of the distress in her manner and saw for the first time in a very long time the vulnerable woman Julia Hoffman kept well hidden, especially from him. Moved to boldness, Barnabas pulled Julia to him and wrapped his arms around her. He felt her arms tentatively ease around his waist as she rested her head against his chest seeking refuge from her turmoil. His broad hands stroked across her back as he rested his head atop hers. Suddenly, Barnabas realized how right it felt to hold her this way. He wanted her to finally know the happiness she had brought to his life.

"Julia, I have cared for you for a very long time. It is only recently that I have come to see that my caring has grown into something much deeper and that I am most complete only in your company. Please, forgive my years of oversight where you are concerned. You have given so much of yourself to me over the years and I wanted this to be a truly memorable day for you. It seemed the perfect opportunity to reveal how my feelings have changed in regard to you."

As she gently pulled back, he saw the look of haunted disbelief as if she were unable to comprehend that he now had altered feelings for her. He had seen the protective defense many times in the past. She quietly ventured to ask the question she most needed to know. "How exactly do you feel?"

Without hesitation, Barnabas drew her closer and sought her lips with his own. As the kiss progressed and deepened, Barnabas felt Julia relax into him. She returned the ardent kiss with the passion he had always suspected lived beneath the solid, protective veneer. His lips trailed across her jaw to her neck as he tasted her smooth skin. His deep whisper sent wonderful chills along her spine as she finally heard the words she had never expected.

"I have fallen in love with you Julia." He then gazed into those expressive green eyes that blazed with years of unspoken love. He gently lifted the locket from its resting place and peered at the engraving. "Eternally. One simple word, yet it states my intentions in the truest of ways. I am eternally yours Julia... if you will have me."

The luminous smile crept slowly across her lips and reached her eyes as she snaked her hand around his neck to pull him closer. "Eternally," she breathed simply as their lips again joined.

It may have been the recognition of the date of Julia's birth, but that day had even greater significance. It was the date of the birth of a new relationship between Barnabas Collins and Julia Hoffman...one that would last...eternally.