#rogue-barnes-durin-main

[msmercury84]

"I Double Dare You," "Paris Part 1"

*Author's Note: Bill Guarnere actually went AWOL after getting hold of some black shoe polish and painting his cast to look like a boot. He had the cast removed by doctors and Guarnere underwent painful sessions of running and walking to get his leg in condition to walk. Getting busted down to the rank of private made problems for him after the war had ended. Guarnere's mother's maiden name was DiSabato according to information provided at Find A Grave. My depiction of Bill Guarnere is solely based on the actor's portrayal in the movie.*

*Smut warning. Some of this chapter is not intended for readers under the age of 18.*

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The Netherlands, early November, 1944.

Dick Winters sat at his desk at Army headquarters, trying to adapt to paperwork instead of leading Easy Company. One of his aides announced,

"There's a Sergeant Guarnere to see you, Sir."

"Send him in." Lewis Nixon remarked,

"Look what the train brought in!" Bill limped into Winters' office, standing at attention and saluting when he stood before his former Commanding Officer.

"I went AWOL from the hospital to get back here, Sir. I hope it don't cause a problem for ya." Winters smiled,

"And would it worry you if this caused a problem for me, Sergeant Guarnere?" Bill smirked,

"Not a bit, Sir."

In mid October, Guarnere decided to borrow a farmer's motorcycle to make a quicker trip to check on his men up and down the line.

A German sniper fired at Bill, knocking him off of the motorcycle and fracturing the tibia in his right leg. Guarnere was sent to a military hospital in England. He learned that he would be sent to a replacement depo, often called a 'repo depot,' when his leg was healed.

Bill wanted to return to Easy Company. He got hold of some black shoe polish, painting his cast to look like a boot. Guarnere made it as far as the nearest air field before he was caught.

He told the MPs that he would go AWOL again because he wanted to go back to Easy Company. The cast was removed and Guarnere was made to walk and run until his leg was close to healing. Bill was also busted down to private for going AW0L. Somehow the paperwork never got through, so he remained a Staff Sergeant.

Winters told Guarnere,

"We both know who is appearing with the Andrews Sisters in Paris. Since your leg isn't completely healed, I am giving you a ten day 'R and R' leave to join Leigh in Paris. I will contact the USO.

When they are made aware of the situation, they should give me the name of the hotel where she's staying, her room number and the telephone number. Once everything is set up, do you want me to tell her you're going to Paris or do you want to surprise her?"

"I'd like to surprise her, Sir."

"Very well, Sergeant Guarnere. I'm going to do my best to get you on the next military flight to Paris. Some of the paperwork will be fudged a little bit, but I'm confident that you can be included with some commissioned officers.

Once they learn that you're visiting your girl, who happens to be the Songbird of the 506th, the same woman who is currently with the Andrews Sisters in Paris, you should be added to the passenger list with no problems. How about checking back with me in a couple of hours, Sergeant Guarnere?" Bill thanked Winters, adding,

"Sir, would ya please get the item out o' the safe that (he pronounced the word as 'dat') you've been keepin' for me? I'm takin' it wit' me to Paris. Thanks for takin' care of it for such a long time."

Winters smiled as he got up from his chair and crossed the room, stopping in front of the safe. He opened it, taking out the blue velvet box containing Bill's grandmother's engagement ring. Dick closed the safe and handed the box to Guarnere,

"Let me be the first to congratulate you on your engagement to Miss Spencer."

"Thank you, Sir." He saluted Winters and left the office. Guarnere went to the barracks and placed two shirts, two ties on hangers, a spare dress uniform and two pairs of trousers in a garment bag. He placed boxer shorts, several pairs of socks and two packs of condoms in his duffel bag.

Bill planned to shower, shave and change into his dress uniform after he had lunch. He had the ring safely tucked away in a pocket of his regular uniform. George Luz and Bull Randleman walked into the barracks. Bull was smoking a cigar. Luz grinned,

"Look what wandered in, Bull. We got Wild Bill back."

"Glad to see you." Guarnere explained how he went AWOL and returned to Easy Company. He added,

"I got a surprise from Captain Winters. He's givin' me a ten day pass to Paris since my leg ain't healed all the way. Winters is gettin' the name of the hotel where Leigh's stayin' an' her room number from the USO. When he tells 'em about my surprise for my girl, they should cooperate wit' him.

Winters is tryin' to get me on the next military flight to Paris. Leigh doesn't know that I'm payin' her a visit. I'm gonna surprise her wit' somethin'." Bill took the blue velvet box out of his pocket. Luz commented,

"Some guys get all the luck. Wild Bill in Paris! The city will never be the same. She'll really like that velvet box. All jokin' aside, congratulations. Ain't a doubt about Leigh accepting your proposal." Randleman took the cigar out of his mouth, telling Guarnere,

"Congratulations, Buddy. 'bout time we had somethin' to celebrate 'round here. Leave it up to you to go AWOL just to get back to us." George asked,

"So, can we see the ring?" Guarnere smiled, opening the box. Randleman commented,

"It's real pretty." George replied,

"That's a gorgeous ring, Bill." Luz smirked, adding,"Won't be long before the MPs bust you for stealin' it."

"Bull, will ya smack him for me?" Randleman grinned and lightly smacked the back of Luz's head. He then returned the cigar to his mouth.

"This was my Nonna DiSabato's engagement ring. Wit' Italian families, the oldest son usually gets the ring. My oldest brother is wit' the merchant marines an' he has no use for it right now. My other brothers are already married.

Nonna left it to me. Before we left the states I asked our former CO if he would keep it safe for me. He kept it in a safe in different Army offices everywhere we've been. I thought it was the right time to propose since we'll be in Paris together." Bull asked,

"Is nonna the Italian word for grandma?" He pronounced the word "Eye-talian."

"Yes."

Guarnere closed the box lid and returned the velvet ring box to his pocket.

"Have you scallywags had lunch?" When Luz and Randleman told Bill they hadn't eaten yet, he said,

"Let's get somethin' to eat, boys. After that, I gotta finish packin' and clean up. I'll probably have a plane to catch." The men went to the mess hall. They wound up sharing a table with Don Malarkey ,Skip Muck and Frank Perconte.

While they ate, Luz told Malarkey, Muck and Perconte about Bill going AWOL to return to Easy Company. The men weren't surprised by Guarnere's actions. George added,

"Wild Bill has been given a ten day leave to Paris, the lucky bastard."

"Since my leg ain't totally healed, Captain Winters gave me the leave. I'm surprisin' Leigh. Boys, I'm also takin' her a gift." Bill removed the ring box from his jacket pocket and opened it. Muck, Malarkey and Perconte congratulated Guarnere. Frank told him,

"I had a feeling you two would wind up getting married. You're not only getting engaged to a nice, pretty girl, she's a damned good cook, too!" Don told him,

"Leigh is a wonderful girl. I still can't get over how she gave me that ticket to the Glenn Miller concert." Skip said,

"I hope your engagement is as sweet as when I proposed to Faye." Bill thanked the men and started to eat lunch.

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At the same time in Paris, Leigh had finished rehearsing with the Andrews Sisters. She was indulging in some shopping. Spencer was in a lingerie boutique. She had already purchased a sheer peach silk peignoir.

Leigh also bought a strapless black lace bra with a matching garter belt, sheer black panties and black silk stockings. She found a bolero length bed jacket made of sheer dotted black lace. The jacket had capped sleeved and was intended to be worn open. It was long enough to cover the strapless bra.

Earlier in the week, Spencer went to a gynecologist to obtain a method of birth control that would be more reliable than condoms. It would also allow more sensation and pleasure for Bill.

Another USO singer and Leigh had become friends while she was in London. Angela Francisco was married and she told Spencer about a diaphragm, which was worn internally.

Francisco said that only married women in the United States could get fitted for a diaphragm, but she had heard that any woman, single or married could visit a doctor in Paris and obtain the device.

Leigh had no problem whatsoever getting her preferred method of birth control. She received instructions on how to properly use and wear it.

Spencer wasn't sure when Bill's next leave would take place since he was in an army hospital recovering from a broken leg. She knew that they were bound to have a very passionate evening when Guarnere got his leave. Leigh intended to wear the black lingerie for that occasion.

Back in Holland, Bill arrived at Captain Winters' office on time. He saluted and asked,

"Do you have any news about the flight, Sir?"

"As a matter of fact I do, Sergeant Guarnere. If you can be packed and ready in an hour, I will send a driver to take you to the air field."

"Thank you, Sir. I'll be ready to go. I really appreciate ya doin' this for me. "

"You're welcome, Sergeant Guarnere. At least try to take it easy and I hope you have a good time." Bill saluted and replied,

"Thank you again, Sir. I intend to have a good time." He gave Winters a cheeky wink and left the office.

Bill quickly showered and shaved. He ensured that everything he needed was packed. Guarnere would keep the velvet box in an inner pocket of his dress uniform. He was certain that Leigh would be unable to feel the box in his pocket when they embraced.

A driver took Bill to the air field where he boarded a plane with some military higher ups. A few hours later, he landed at an Army airfield in Paris. Winters had given him the name of an official to contact regarding transportation, so Bill asked a nearby MP officer the location of the official's office.

Guarnere soon located and spoke with the official. Twenty minutes later, he was in a jeep with a driver provided for the occasion. Bill made small talk with the driver as they made their way to the city.

Once they reached the city, Guarnere gave the driver the address to Le Bristol Hotel. He arrived at the hotel fifteen minutes later. Bill took his duffel and garment bags from the jeep, thanking the driver. The young man told Bill to call Captain Winters when he was nearing the end of his stay to ensure a ride back to the Army base.

Bill looked at the large, white painted structure. Balconies were provided for every suite. He made his way inside, taking note of the marble floor and the elegant decor, thinking,

"They went all out an' sent my baby to a fancy place. I sure as hell couldn't afford to stay here." Bill spotted an elevator on the left side of the busy lobby.

Guarnere entered the elevator and an Elevator Operator in a dark blue uniform asked in perfect English the floor Bill desired. He told the man that he wanted the fifth floor. When the elevator stopped at the fifth floor, Bill tried to give the Operator a tip. The man refused, saying,

"You are helping to fight the enemy. I will not accept a tip.Your service is greatly appreciated, Monsieur." Bill thanked the man, got his bags and entered the hallway. He noticed a large sign posted in the center of the wall. It listed the suite numbers with arrows indicating the location to the right or to the left.

Bill saw that Suite 520 was on the left side of the building, so he turned to his left and walked down the long corridor that was covered in thick beige carpet. Midway down the hallway, he saw brass numbers, 520, above a door on his right. Guarnere placed his bags on the floor and knocked on the door.

He grinned, hearing Leigh replying,

"Just a moment, please, I'm on my way to the door." She was wearing a cornflower blue Wiggle Dress with her usual stockings and black open toed pumps. Spencer opened the door and her eyes widened with surprise as she saw Guarnere standing there. She exclaimed,

"Oh my God, Bill! What a wonderful surprise! Come in, Honey." Guarnere entered the suite's living room. It was decorated in light blue, tan and white. He put his bags on the floor while Leigh shut and locked the door. Bill pulled Spencer close to him, giving her an extremely passionate kiss.

The kiss was so intense that they remained in each other's arms as Bill attempted to guide Leigh to the nearest wall. They narrowly missed falling over a coffee table in front of a white couch. Guarnere almost knocked over a chair as he found the wall and leaned against it.

Spencer had her arms around Bill's neck as his hands moved from her waist to cup her ass and caress it. He deepened the kiss and Leigh sucked the tip of his tongue into her mouth. The kiss went on a bit longer, then Guarnere broke the kiss, looking into Spencer's eyes, telling her,

"I love you."

"I love you, too, Bill." He continued to hold Leigh close.

"You're a beautiful angel. I love it when ya wear a Wiggle Dress."

"Thanks, Honey. I made a few more of these in different colors since you like them so much. How did you get here? I thought that you were still in the hospital. How is your leg?" Bill told her about going AWOL to get back to Easy Company.

"They took the cast off an' they made me start walkin', then runnin' to get me back into condition. Captain Winters gave me a 10 day R&R pass 'cause my leg ain't completely healed. He got your suite number from the USO an' he put me on a VIP military flight that brought me here. Now I can hear my baby singin' wit' my favorite group."

Leigh made a mental note to be sure that there was a VIP seat available for Bill in the theater. Guarnere looked around the suite,

"My angel is gettin' the star treatment. A crystal chandelier an' all o' this fancy furniture. I've missed my sweet baby."

"I've missed you, too. Thank God you're OK. It scared the hell out of me when I found out you got shot. Bill, please, no more stunts on a motorcycle, OK?" He chuckled,

"Captain Winters kinda said the same thing. Baby, where's your bedroom? I need to put my stuff away." He smirked, adding,"That is if you want me to sleep in your bed."

"Of course you're sleeping in my bed, you sexy smart ass. Just follow me, it's right through these glass doors." Guarnere opened the door for Spencer and followed her to the bedroom. A queen sized bed occupied the center of the room and another crystal chandelier hung in the center of the ceiling.

Floral curtains were pulled back to reveal windows and the French Doors leading to the balcony. Bill hung up his uniform trousers, shirts, ties and an extra dress uniform in an armoire to the right of the bed.

He put the contents of the duffel bag into the top drawer of a chest of drawers that sat beside the armoire.

"Sweetheart, is there a way to close those drapes? I ain't plannin' on puttin' on a show just in case anybody can see in these windows when we get busy."

Spencer showed him how the sash of the curtains could be removed, allowing the curtains to cover the windows. Leigh suddenly thought about the lingerie she had purchased earlier and she asked Bill,

" Honey, do you mind waiting in the living room? I bought a new outfit and I thought I'd model it for you, to see what you think of it. I just need to put it on and get fixed up a little bit." Guarnere agreed to wait in the other room. He first visited the bathroom beside the bedroom before returning to the living room. Bill washed his hands after he was finished in the bathroom. He wasn't sure which towel to use, so he dried his hands on a medium sized towel on a rack by the sink.

Once he was in the living room, Leigh opened the door to the armoire on the left side of the bed and she removed the bag containing the lingerie. She opened the top drawer of the chest of drawers beside the armoire, taking out the bag containing her diaphragm and the spermicidal jelly.

Spencer took the bag with the diaphragm into the bathroom. She removed her slip, garter belt, stockings and her panties before carefully applying the spermicidal jelly to the center of the diaphragm before inserting it.

She washed her hands and dried them on the small towel hanging on the rack by the sink. Then she carried the bag and the items of clothing back to the bedroom.

Leigh closed the curtains and removed her dress, hanging it up in the armoire. She placed her slip, garter belt, stockings and panties into a bag for the hotel's laundry service. Her bra went into the top drawer of the chest of drawers.

Spencer put on the black lace strapless bra and the lace bolero jacket. She then put on the see-through black silk panties, the matching black lace garter belt and the black silk stockings.

Leigh took care to ensure that the seams of her stockings were straight and she put on her black open toed pumps. She opened the middle drawer of the chest of drawers, extracting her small cosmetics bag.

Spencer applied eyebrow pencil, eyeliner, mascara, a hint of blush, powder and she also touched up her red lipstick. She brushed her hair and left the bedroom.

Leigh quietly entered the living room and stood in front of Bill.

"What do you think of my new outfit, Honey?" Guarnere put the newspaper on the coffee table and looked up. He was almost slack jawed at the sight of Leigh in the lingerie.

Although another part of his anatomy was responding to what he saw, Guarnere felt as if his brain had frozen. He couldn't find a coherent word to say. Bill had never been tongue tied around a woman before.

Spencer smiled,

"Do I pass inspection, Sergeant Guarnere?"

"Oh, hell yes! Jesus, Baby, you're stunnin'. All the pin up girls in the world ain't got nothin' on you." Bill noticed her black silk panties and said in an almost reverent tone,

"Holy God, those panties are see-through. I can see every perfect inch o' you. Baby, you have the most beautiful...you know what I mean. I don't wanna say anythin' disrespectful."

Spencer felt extremely pleased that Bill was enjoying the new lingerie. She walked closer and straddled his lap, giving Guarnere a very passionate kiss. Bill held her close and Leigh began to unbutton his dress uniform jacket.

Guarnere let the jacket fall to the floor, feeling glad that he stashed the box containing the engagement ring in the chest of drawers instead of keeping it in the pocket of his dress uniform.

Spencer nibbled his ear and she gently sucked on Bill's neck. She noticed that his cock was extremely hard. Leigh ground her pelvis against Guarnere, making him groan softly. Spencer untied his necktie and unbuttoned his shirt.

Bill quickly removed both items, letting them fall to the floor. He had a wicked grin as he used both hands to reach around Leigh to unhook her strapless bra. It fell on the floor in front of the couch.

Guarnere adored the sight of the sheer black lace bolero over her bare breasts. He caressed and kissed Spencer's breasts before he wrapped his lips around her nipples, sucking on them. She arched her back, loving the feeling of his lips tugging gently on her nipples.

Spencer reached down to unbuckle Bill's belt. He removed the belt and she stood up so Guarnere could remove his boots, socks and trousers. The boots were left by the coffee table while the socks and trousers wound up on the floor.

Leigh rubbed Bill's cock through the material of his boxer shorts. He groaned a bit louder when she gently squeezed his cock. She looked into Guarnere's eyes as she licked her lips. This slightly obscene behavior further aroused him.

Spencer straddled his legs again, rubbing her silk covered sex against his engorged cock.

"Baby, will ya stretch out on the couch for just a little bit? We can get right back to this, but I need to taste you. Could ya just take off the panties an' leave on the stockins an' garter belt?"

Leigh got up and sat on the couch beside Bill to remove her garter belt. She unfastened the stockings from the tabs on the garter belt, then she stood up, looking into Guarnere's eyes as she slowly removed the panties. Spencer let them fall to the floor and she reattached the stockings to the tabs on the garter belt and fastened the garter belt.

Then, Bill stood up, allowing Leigh to fully recline on the couch. She opened her legs.

"You look hotter than hell itself, Baby." Guarnere knelt over Spencer, kissing his way up her legs. He paused to suck on the soft flesh above her stockings. Leigh moaned softly, opening her legs a bit wider. Bill told her in a husky sounding voice,

"You're a fuckin' goddess." He lapped at the lips of her sex, working his way up to her clit. Bill wrapped his lips around the small nub of flesh, gently sucking on it. Spencer moaned louder. She tried very hard to not thrust her pelvis into his face as Guarnere continued to suck on and lick her clit.

A few minutes later, Leigh felt an orgasm building and Bill sucked a bit harder on her clit, sending her over the edge. Her pelvis involuntarily thrust up as the orgasm washed over her body.

Guarnere waited until Spencer had finished coming. Then, he picked her up and carried her to the bedroom, putting her on the edge of the bed. They stripped the bed of the duvet, top sheet and pillows. Bill said,

"I need to take care o' somethin'. "

"I'm wearing something inside called a diaphragm. It's better birth control, plus you can feel more this way."

"I like the sound o' that. Now, what way does my sweet angel wanna make love?"

"Your sweet angel has turned into a horny little devil. I want to ride that magnificent cock." Guarnere chuckled at her remark and he sat up in bed, leaning his back against the headboard with his right leg bent at the knee and his left leg extended.

He watched Leigh approach the bed and he reclined on the bed, grinning as she straddled his hips. Spencer rubbed her sex on his cock. Guarnere groaned as he felt how wet she was.

"That feels so good, Baby." Spencer guided the tip of his cock into her interior. She made a throaty sounding moan as she slid down the length of him.

Leigh slightly circled her hips as she rode Bill. Then she did something she knew that he loved. Spencer moved up until only the tip of his cock remained inside her, then she quickly slid down the length of him again.

Guarnere groaned as she picked up the pace of riding him. He held both of her breasts in his hands. Bill soon reluctantly let go of Leigh's breasts so he could get a firm hold on her hips as he thrust up into her.

This position stimulated Spencer's G-spot and she could feel another orgasm building. Guarnere continued to thrust up inside her. He groaned at the sweet friction. Bill knew he couldn't last much longer, and he reached up to rub Leigh's clit.

That action soon helped send Spencer over the edge. She cried out passionately as she came. Guarnere felt her contracting around his cock. He started to come,

"Oh...fuck, yes!" Bill gently put Leigh on her side and he withdrew from her. He got the sheet and a pillow. Spencer snuggled up with her head on his chest.

Guarnere stroked her back,

"You're the most beautiful woman I've ever known. Baby, you're perfect at makin' love."

"I never came that hard before. Bill, you've always been perfect at making love."

"I'm sorry it didn't last very long. Bein' able to feel everythin' made me not last as long as I should."

"I'm not complaining, so there's no need to apologize."

"Will ya wear that outfit again sometime? You looked so beautiful an' sexy. " Leigh assured him that she would wear the black lace ensemble whenever he wanted. After snuggling for awhile, Bill and Leigh took a quick bath together.

Spencer put on her dress and clean lingerie plus a clean garter belt and stockings. She went back to the living room to take all of her items of clothing to put in the bag for the hotel's laundry service while Bill retrieved his clothes, a fresh pair of socks and a fresh pair of boxer shorts and got dressed in the bedroom.

Leigh noticed a piece of paper on the floor of the suite's living room. She picked it up and was stunned to see a note in Guarnere's handwriting saying, "Find the address for Lulu's."

Spencer was shocked. She couldn't believe her eyes. Still, there was no denying the fact that Bill wanted the address for the well known whorehouse. Leigh trusted Guarnere completely from the time they met.

She tried to remain calm and rational, thinking,

"There has to be a reasonable explanation for this." A nagging doubt wouldn't go away, and she wondered,

"Have I been played for a fool?" Spencer felt as if her heart would break when she considered the possibility that if Bill was planning on visiting Lulu's, their relationship was over. She would never be able to forgive him.

Guarnere entered the suite's living room.

"Sweetheart, do ya feel like goin' out for supper or do ya want to order from room service?" Leigh got up from the chair in which she'd been sitting. Bill saw the expression on her face. Spencer's emotional pain was almost palpable.

"What's wrong, Baby?" Leigh walked across the room to stand in front of Guarnere. She held up the note Bill wrote to himself.

"This goddamned paper I found on the floor is what's wrong! Why the fuck are you so interested in Lulu's? I know what and where it is. One of the singers I worked with in London, Samantha Meeks, found out that her boyfriend was screwing around behind her back at that place!" Bill was shocked to hear Leigh swearing at him. Spencer added,

"Goddamn it, Bill! I have trusted you completely! I gave you myself and my heart! How dare you do this to me!" Leigh began to cry as if her heart was completely shattered.

Guarnere took her hand and Spencer pulled away from him. She glared as she pointed her finger at Bill,

"Don't you fucking touch me! I'm very close to throwing you out of this suite, bag and baggage." She turned her back on him, walking across the room.

"Leigh, will ya please sit on the couch wit' me. I can explain why I have the name of that place." She sat down on the couch, still sobbing.

"At least have the decency to tell me the truth. Even if it's something I don't want to hear."

Bill got his handkerchief out of his pocket and tried to dry her tears. Spencer took the handkerchief out of his hand and blew her nose as the tears continued to fall. Leigh got up and went into the bedroom. She put the handkerchief in a bag for the hotel's laundry service.

Spencer returned to sit on the couch. Guarnere pulled her close to him, saying gently but firmly,

"Leigh, I need ya to listen to me. Don't do or say anythin' else until I have a chance to explain this to ya. I wrote the name of that place down for 'One Lung' McClung, Shifty Powers an' Bull. I promised 'em that I would find out where it was.

I know it looks real bad where I'm concerned, but you're tryin' and convictin' me for somethin' I didn't do. I kept it quiet 'cause I know Melissa is your friend.

Baby, I would never think of goin' behind your back an' seein' some broad in a place like that. I love you, nothin's changed my mind about that."

"I want to believe you because you mean the world to me." Guarnere pulled her close to him,

"If you can get away long enough to get to Holland, you can ask Bull, Shifty an' McClung. They won't protect me by lyin'. I don't think Bull is treatin' your friend right at all, but that's his business." Leigh moved back enough to look into Bill's eyes and realized that he was telling the truth.

"I should've known better than to jump to conclusions. It looked for all the world that you were interested in that place. Can you ever forgive me for being so stupid?" Bill cupped his hands around her face,

"There's no reason to forgive. Like I said, it didn't look good where I was concerned. I understand why ya got upset." Guarnere had newfound respect for Leigh when she stood up to him. He loved her feisty nature. She embraced him and Bill held her close. He chuckled,

"When you get fired up, ya curse like a sailor. Good thing ya didn't tell me my boot needed to be tied. I have a feelin' that you would've kicked my ass into next week." Spencer laughed at his remark,

"I told you a long time ago that I can curse a blue streak when I'm angry or upset." Bill kissed Leigh.

"Are ya feelin' better now, Baby?"

"Yes, much better."

"Glad to hear it, Honey. Let me tell ya about a crazy thing I did in Eindhoven before I broke my leg. When we jumped into Holland, the Dutch people loved us. Whatever they had, they shared wit' us. They had lots of apples.

We put the apples in our jump suit pockets. Pretty soon, I had about ten thousand apples." Leigh laughed at Bill's comment. He continued,

"All at once," He imitated the sound of German machine gun fire, "what do ya think I did? I got a goddamned apple outta my pocket. I thought it was a grenade, an' I threw it at the Germans. I'm throwin apples after the goddamned Germans! They thought it was a secret weapon. Leigh, ya shoulda seen the look on their faces."

Guarnere wondered if Spencer wanted to go out to eat. Leigh thought it sounded like a good idea. She put on a claret colored Wiggle Dress with three quarter inch sleeves and touched up her makeup and lipstick. Bill was already wearing his dress uniform, so he didn't need to change clothes.

Leigh grabbed her purse. Bill opened the door leading to the hallway, allowing her to exit the suite first. Spencer locked the door to the suite and Guarnere closed the door behind him.

Bill and Leigh found a bistro not far from the hotel. They enjoyed the simple high-quality home style cooking. After supper, Guarnere leisurely smoked a cigarette as they strolled hand in hand, looking at the Eiffel Tower.

The following night, Bill and Leigh returned to Spencer's suite after they had supper at the bistro they visited the night before. Guarnere had his usual cigarette after supper. There was a hint of a chill in the air and the clear sky sparkled with stars.

Guarnere asked Leigh if she would like to sit on the balcony in front of her bedroom. He opened the French Doors leading to the patio and waited for her to go outside first. Bill was pleased that room service had left a bottle of champagne chilling in a silver bucket of ice, two champagne flutes on the table and a vase of red Sweetheart Roses.

Leigh noticed the champagne and the roses.

"Honey, did you order this?"

"Yes, I wanted to spoil my angel a little bit." He wanted to have the perfect romantic setting for what he had in mind.

"Thanks, Bill. They're beautiful." He pulled out one chair for Leigh, making sure she was seated before he sat down beside her.

Spencer smiled,

"You've always been extremely romantic. That's another thing I love about you. There's something about Paris, romance seems to be everywhere.

I'm here with the handsome man who owns my heart. It's a perfect evening." Guarnere poured the champagne into both champagne flutes. He raised his glass,

"To the beautiful love o' my life an' to love." Spencer raised her glass. They carefully touched the glasses together and sipped the champagne. Leigh told him,

"This is delicious. You made a good choice of champagne, Honey."

"I'm glad ya like it, Baby. I gotta confess, I asked the guy downstairs at the desk, what the best champagne was as far as my money was concerned. He told me to order this." Spencer figured out that Bill spoke to the Concierge of the hotel.

"It's sweet that you went to all that trouble to get the roses and a good bottle of champagne. As you would say, you went all out tonight." Guarnere thought,

"I'm goin' all out to make this perfect for my baby. I want this to be a night she'll never forget." Bill got up from the table, saying that he had a small surprise for her.

"Will ya keep your eyes closed, Honey? I'll let ya know when to open 'em." Leigh promised that she wouldn't open her eyes until he told her it was OK to open them. She was extremely curious about the surprise Guarnere mentioned.

When Bill returned he stood beside Leigh. He gingerly got down on his knees, mindful of his healing leg. Then, he got the ring box out of the pocket of his dress uniform jacket and held it in his hand.

"Open your eyes, Sweetheart," Spencer's eyes widened with surprise when she saw Bill on his knees and the blue velvet box in his hand. She had a radiant smile on her face as he told her,

"Baby, I've had this since the day we visited Ma and Pop before we both shipped out to England. Captain Winters has been keepin' it in safes in every Army office where we've been stationed. I've been waitin' for the right time an' place to do this." Bill opened the blue velvet box, showing her the ring.

"Leigh Spencer, will you do me the honor of becomin' my wife?Sweetheart, I love you an' I want to spend the rest of my life wit' ya. I want your face to be the last thing I see before I go to sleep an' the first thing I see in the mornin'. Baby, I promise to love you for the rest of our lives an' I will be a devoted husband.

Leigh felt elated as she bent down to kiss Bill, telling him,

"Oh, Bill, yes! Honey, you just made my most desired dream come true! I love you with all of my heart. Knowing that I will go to sleep and wake up beside you every day for the rest of our lives sounds like heaven to me. I promise to love you forever, and it will be an easy promise to keep. It's a beautiful ring! Would you please put it on my finger?"

Guarnere took her left hand and kissed it before he slipped the ring on her finger.

"It looks beautiful on ya, Honey. This was my Nonna DiSabato's ring. She left it to me in her will. In Italian families, the oldest son gets the ring. My brother Ernest is in the Merchant Marines, he didn't need the ring. All my other brothers, except Henry, were already married when Nonna died. I don't know why, but she insisted that I should get her ring." Bill stood up since kneeling was causing his right leg to hurt.

Leigh stood up and hugged Bill, telling him,

"You picked the most romantic location to propose. Baby, I'll never forget this night as long as I live. I like the sound of Leigh Guarnere, it has a nice ring to it, no pun intended.

Someday, I'll tell our children and grandchildren about how you proposed to me. Bill, I can't begin to describe how much I love you and how happy you've made me tonight. You surprised me and you made me the happiest woman in Paris."

Guarnere gave Spencer a passionate kiss.

"Honey, you made me the happiest man in Paris when ya told me 'Yes.' I know when the time comes, you'll be the sexiest and most beautiful Nonna in South Philadelphia."

I was hopin' you wanted to have kids, 'cause I'd like to have a family someday. 'course I don't want to have as many kids as Ma and Pop had."

"Bill, I want to be the mother of your children and I hope we have a fairly big family, with least one little boy who looks and acts exactly like you and at least one girl.

"You'll have your hands full wit' a kid like me. If we have a little girl, I hope she looks just like her beautiful Ma. I hope she's a singer, too. Is it OK wit' you if we wait until after the war is over before we get married? That way, we can plan a nice weddin' ceremony and include our families an' friends."

"Honey, it's fine with me to wait until after the war is over. It would definitely give us time to get everything arranged the way we want. I don't think a little boy like you would be a problem. Are you sure you want an exact replica of me? I'm not sure the world is ready for another Leigh Spencer." Bill chuckled at her question,

"I wouldn't want our little girl to be any other way. You're perfect, Baby."

"I think you're perfect, too. Let's tell our folks the good news. Due to the circumstance of the calls being made, I don't think the Andrews Sisters will object as long as we don't talk too long."

"That's a great idea, Baby. Is it OK if I call Ma and Pop first." Spencer said that was fine. Bill called the front desk and asked them to place the call to South Philadelphia. He gave the operator the telephone number.

While Guarnere waited, he asked Leigh,

"What time will it be at home?" She told him that the United States was five or six hours behind Paris time. The operator told Bill,

"I have the connection made with the other party. You may speak to them now. Bill said

"Hello."

"Billy, is everything OK?" Guarnere smiled,

"Ma, things couldn't be better. I just proposed to Leigh an' she said, 'Yes!'"

"Oh, that's wonderful news, Billy!" She paused to tell Bill's father.

"Your pop says 'congratulations'. I'm gonna let everybody know the good news. This is probably costin' a fortune to call, so I'd better be goin'. Give my love to Leigh! I couldn't have picked a better daughter-in-law." Guarnere promised to deliver his mother's message to Spencer.

He told her,

"Ma sends her love. She said that she couldn't have picked a better daughter-in-law."

"That's so sweet. I couldn't have picked a better mother-in-law."

"Thanks, Baby. It's great that you an' Ma are crazy about each other."

"I think the world of her, your dad and your sisters. Now, it's my turn to tell the good news to my folks." She got the operator to place a person to person call to the Spencers. The operator made the connection after a few minutes. She told Leigh that she could begin speaking to the other party on the line. She said,

"Hello." Cal answered her immediately,

"Leigh, good to hear from you! What's going on?" Spencer had a brilliant smile on her face as she replied,

"You're gaining a son-in-law after the war is over. Bill just proposed in the most romantic setting, Paris!" Cal teased her,

"And you turned him down." She giggled,

"Dad, you know how much I love him. Bill gave me his grandmother's engagement ring and it's absolutely stunning!" Cal congratulated his daughter.

"He wrote to me a few months ago, asking for our blessings.

Wait just a minute, your mother just walked into the house." Cal told Louise that Leigh was calling from Paris. Louise picked up the phone,

"What's going on? I just got back from my hair appointment." When Leigh gave her mother the news, she replied,

"Oh, that's wonderful! Congratulations! When is the wedding?" When Louise learned that the wedding would take place after the war was over, she told Leigh,

"You'll have plenty of time to plan everything just the way you want it. Your father and I are delighted to welcome Bill into the family. You couldn't have picked a better man for your husband." She and Cal promised to write or call soon. Leigh told Bill,

"Mom just said I couldn't have picked a better man to be my husband. I agree with her one hundred percent."

"How about we celebrate wit' a toast?" Leigh agreed and Bill poured a small amount of champagne in each glass. He raised his glass,

"To my angel, may we have a long lifetime o' love." Spencer raised her glass,

"To you, Honey, may we have a long lifetime of love." Guarnere suddenly realized something, commenting,

"Sweetheart, I can't believe that I didn't get somethin' for your birthday an' our anniversary." Leigh kissed Bill,

"This beautiful ring more than makes up for it. You gave me the perfect gift for both occasions. This is something I've wanted for quite some time." Guarnere tenderly kissed her. That night, after making love tenderly, Bill and Leigh fell asleep in each other's arms.

@lizziebitch33 @wontyoutakeitback @alluringmoonlightbabe @bookfansworld @stinkyrat09 @celie-voss @cagzzz107 @ethereal-jumpwings @havaneselover08 @lenabob @leksi-rae @marycorleone @f1-and-shiz @bellewintersroe @softguarnere @vibing-away @theretroloverofmusic @brassknucklespeirs @breadsprinkles @itstheheebiejeebies

#bill guarnere #william guarnere #easy company #band of brothers #vintagelavenderskies #bill guarnere imagine #bill guarnere smut #band of brothers imagine #ethereal-jumpwings #ethereal jumpwings #rogue-barnes-durin-main

[spectrestardust]

15 questions, 15 mutuals

thank you all so much for tagging me: @quarantineddreamer  @coffee-and-uhg @lilting-aurora and @grimm-lynn 💙

1. Are you named after anyone?

no, but my brother is. my name was the only one my parents could agree on 😂 

2. When was the last time you cried?

this morning, driving to work, listening to Liability by Lorde, followed up by Paul, by Big Thief (i got into a fight with my mom and i punished myself with sad songs)

3. Do you have kids?

no, but i helped to raise my brother and my cousins

4. Do you use sarcasm a lot?

nah (she said, sarcastically)

5. What sports do you play/have you played?

i used to do trail running, but it’s been a while. i’m trying to get back to it though. oh and football (there’s a reason i love ted lasso so much)

6. What’s the first thing you notice about other people?

if they’re uncomfortable. i’m very intuitive and i have to stop myself from judging them from a first impression. but i’m usually right 🤪

7. What’s your eye colour?

brown

8. Scary movies or happy endings?

i can’t watch anything too scary, and i do love an happy ending. but my favorite are bittersweet endings 💔

9. Any special talents?

these are not really special talents, but i can sing, play the guitar, the ukulele and little bit of the piano. i also taught myself how to do nails, hair and make up and i’ve been doing it for me and my friends for years. and i love to embroider, even though i don’t have a lot of time for it.

10. Where were you born?

somewhere in Portugal

11. What are your hobbies?

Writing, reading, playing the guitar, rewatching the same shows over and over again, going on nature walks while listening to music and imagining fake scenarios (that last one is my favorite 😂)

12. Do you have any pets?

i have 6 cats and a dog and i love them with all my heart

13. How tall are you?

5′2

14. Favorite subject in school?

portuguese and english. 

15. Dream job?

darling, i do not dream of labour... just kidding when i was a kid i wanted to be a musician, and something i still want to learn is musical production. but also, me and @daffodelia are going to open a cozy coffeeshop where we’ll have the best music playing all day long, including live performances from time to time 😎

okay, so, 15 people?! i’ll probably tag some people that have already been tagged, sorry about that. and, of course, no pressure: @daffodelia @lavenderdameron @novasforce @kestreldawn @kissmywookiee @onesingularbean @kassandors @flythesail @swiftpascal @rogue-barnes-durin-main @tarabyte3 @woahpip @k2cassian @officialkarinuzumaki @andorology love you all <3

#tag game #quarantineddreamer #coffee-and-uhg #lilting-aurora #grimm-lynn #i love doing these

[cielie-voss]

Ten Songs. Ten People.

Thanks for the tag @hxad-ovxr-hxart

rules: put your music on shuffle and list the first 10 songs that come up, then tag people.

Needles - System of a down

In my head - Witchz

Total eclipse of the heart - Our last night

Violet's Tale - Ren

Nightmare - Avenged Sevenfold

Kryptonite - 3 doors down

Evil Angel - Breaking Benjamin

Duality - Slipknot

96 quite bitter beings - CKY

1000 x cooler - TJ Beastboy (don't judge me, I love taddl and this song is so catchy 😂)

Tags (no pressure) : @violetmiroh @eugeneroehoe @thefreak0fhawkinshigh @rogue-barnes-durin-main @onlyyouexisthere and everyone who wants to! 🫶

[ithinkabouttzu]

Hiii, first of all, I love you blog and the whole vibe. You're probably the first blog I've seen with the combination of kpop and band of brothers, cool combo.

I would like to request a band of brothers ship :))) My pronouns are he/him, I'm pretty short. I play the guitar and love drawing, photography... just anything artistic. I'm always optimistic and am very social. I love giving gifts whether its art or self baked food or random rocks... fun fact, I'm Belgian and I've been to bastogne a whole lot of times growing up,hope that enough information ;)

Also, I think you would really like @rogue-barnes-durin-main they're lovely and your blogs are somewhat alike ;)

Have a great day!

Yes hii thank you so much for your request and i’m so glad you like my blog! 💖

I ship you with…

David Webster!

Song recommendation: Cruel Summer - Taylor Swift

- OMG what an iconic couple

- Okay so I think you guys would meet in a public library or something like that, both of you are so artistic and smart (in your own respective ways ofc) but he’d be trying to find a seat in there, and that’s when he sees you

- You looked so handsome but angelic at the same time, it almost took him of guard for a second because he wasn’t expecting someone so pretty to be in a library on the weekend.

- You would be so focused, on whatever you were doing, and he would be nervous to come and sit by you because he wouldn’t want to disturb you

- And you obviously catch on to his extreme staring at you, when you look up from your work and give him a sweet smile

- He almost passes out in that moment, you just smiled at him? Btw your gorg smile literally has his face in a deep shade of red

- He has to go over to you now, when he finally does, he can finally see how nice you look in the window sunlight, he can also see what you’re working on, it’s a drawing, and that’s when he’s like wait, that’s actually like so good??

- “That’s a real pretty drawing you got there, by the way, what’s your name?” AHHHH that’s exactly how he says it

- And of course you guys start talking together, immediately hitting it off, talking about all kinds of stuff, like what you usually draw, and his writings, the best books to read all of it, even to where the librarian has to tell you guys to leave because you guys are way too loud for a library

- he would find you extremely fascinating, you guys would go to a cafe afterwards because he just wants to get to know more and more of you atp, and the rest is history.

- He loves and admires your positive attitude so much, it really uplifts him in days where he feels like absolute shit, on his bad days, you can always bring a smile to his face with your encouraging personality

- You’re more of the social one in the relationship, but overall both of you are pretty outgoing when it comes to hanging out with friends, y’all are always talking to others and making friends with people, I think you guys would be a very charming couple in terms of talking and socializing, y’all are just so nice who wouldn’t wanna hang out with y’all?!

- Okay, when you bake him dessert as a gift for the first time, this man swears he fell in love, like actually swore up and down he was gonna marry you after he had a bite of the brownies you gifted him

- speaking of baking, I think you two would spend just one day where you guys bake up a whole bunch of cookies and such at it would be so fun and cute, he would be like such a romantic the whole time, putting cookie dough on his finger for you to eat, kissing your cheek and holding you while you prepare the baking pans and the dough, it would be so nice oh my gosh

- Or if you give him something that you drew or painted, his heart would literally melt, he knows how much thought and time you must’ve put in it and just that alone makes him fall in love with you all over again, he literally with thank you over and over again til you’re just like, “Dude, chill” LOL

- and in return of course he writes you a small poem that’s so romantic and sweet, it would literally bring you tears to your eyes, cause literally the thought of someone writing you a poem, confessing how much they’re in love with you is so adorable 😭

- He would find it SOO cool that you play guitar, like that’s just so neat to him and he would literally beg you to play something for him, he’s honestly such a fan girl for you when you play it and he just full on loves when you play the guitar, it also gives him hella butterflies

- omg omg omg, how could I forget your photography, he would jokingly always ask for you to take a pic of him while you guys were out together, and whenever you guys have a date outside or out in nature he would ask you to bring your camera stuff or whatever you use for photos,

- Like say you guys were on a picnic, he’d become the temporary photographer 🤣 he’d just be like, “babe look” and he would talk all kinds of photos, and even if they’re completely horrible you can’t tell him that because that would break his ego into pieces LMAO

- But I think you guys would go together sooo well, I can get like 100% that he would completely treat you like royalty and it would be so cute 😭 you never have to worry about anything ever when you’re with him

Thank you again so much for your request!! And i’m def going to check out @rogue-barnes-durin-main ‘s blog RNNNN 😋💛💛💛

#band of brothers ship #band of brothers #ithinkabouttzu #david webster

[kalikoris]

Drink Picrew!

Rules: Create your blog(s) theme as a drink! Here’s the link :)

Thank you for tagging me @rogue-barnes-durin-main!! (made a new post since it was getting long)

I'm never on desktop so I used my mobile theme.

tried my best!!

I'm tagging~ @harcove @notyouraveragesofia @ghostiesandghoulss @lunapascal @kybermoon no pressure of course! it's a fun lil piccrew even if you don't post <3

#tag game #finally getting around to doing these #tagged

[marvelieber-rdjr01]

@rogue-barnes-durin-main heyyyyy b!tch! I would like to ask you for a bob ship... pretty please...

[msmercury84]

"I Double Dare You," "Wedding Day"

*Author's note: St. Edmond's Church,in the picture shown above, is where the funeral was held for Bill Guarnere. I am guessing that this is the church he attended. The incident in the airplane really happened to Mr. Guarnere. My version of Bill Guarnere is solely based on the actor's portrayal in the movie.*

***********************************************************************

Saturday, June 23, 1945

Leigh awoke shortly before the sun rose. She went into the kitchen to make coffee and a light breakfast. Next, she went over a list of things to do before the limo driver provided by the USO came to pick up Melissa, Sue and herself and transport them to St. Edmond's Church.

The USO had also arranged for three more limousines, one to take Bill and his best man, another limousine would take the groomsmen and Guarnere's sisters, who were bridesmaids. The remaining car would take both Bill's and Leigh's parents.

Bill woke at sunrise in his bedroom at his parents' home. He had a big smile on his face as he thought,

"I marry my angel today." He thought back on how he met Leigh, the first time he heard her sing, the night he asked her to be his girl, their first kiss and the night Guarnere confessed his love for her, which was the same night he became Spencer's first lover.

Bill never doubted that he would make Leigh his wife until he was seriously injured in Bastogne. When he awoke in the field hospital the day after he was hit by the enemy, Guarnere celebrated the fact that he was still alive.

Then, he worried about his parents and Leigh if he didn't survive. Thanks to excellent medics and his resolve to never give up, he made it to the American Hospital in Paris. Bill knew that having Leigh by his side until he went to the military hospital in Maine played a big role in his recovery.

Meanwhile, Gina Ricci, Leigh's mother's friend, called to say that she would arrive at Spencer's new home after she had breakfast. Ricci was staying at a nearby hotel. She offered to style Leigh's hair for the wedding.

Spencer had washed her hair the night before and pinned it up the way she wore her hair at work. Leigh took a bath and put on a day dress, the usual undergarments and some black pumps. Then, she brushed her teeth.

She had her wedding gown in a garment bag, along with some stockings, a white lace garter belt, gossamer thin white silk panties, a white lace garter and a long slip.

Leigh had her makeup in her purse and her veil was carefully placed on a hanger and put in a smaller garment bag along with white pumps. She had installed bra cups in her gown, so there was no need for any extra lingerie.

Spencer put water into a percolator, knowing that Ricci enjoyed fresh coffee when she visited at her parents' home.Twenty minutes later, Ricci arrived, knocking on the front door.

Leigh let her in and Gina hugged her, saying,

"Happy wedding day, Leigh! I'll tell ya what, if I was 25 years younger, I would've gone after that good lookin' paisano you're about to marry. You kids are perfect for each other."

Spencer went into the kitchen, since Gina had to heat a curling iron on the stove. She opened a cupboard door and took out a large coffee mug. Leigh closed the cupboard door and took the mug to the stove, filling it with hot coffee from the percolator. She handed it to Gina and went to the counter by the stove, picking up the cookie jar. Leigh set it on the kitchen table and opened the lid,

"I remember that you like to have cookies with your coffee. Believe it or not, I made them." Ricci grinned and took out two of the thin cookies.

"You made these pizzelles?" Gina took a bite of the cookie,

"They're really good, Leigh. You're gonna make a good Italian wife, even if you're not Italian. I remember you said that these are Bill's favorite cookies. These taste like the cookies my mama used to make, God rest her soul."

"Thanks, Gina. I got the recipe and the pizzelle maker from Bill's mom. She's a sweet lady." Leigh sat in a chair at the kitchen table. Ricci unpinned Spencer's hair, placing the bobby pins on the table. The curling iron was heated and Gina got a few strands of Leigh's hair at a time, creating spiraled curls.

Since Spencer's hair was curly and wavy, when Ricci brushed her hair after using the curling iron, the waves in Leigh's hair would be under control. Spencer's face would be framed by the relaxed, soft curls.

Gina remarked,

"It's hard to believe that you're old enough to get married. Who knew that little Leigh Spencer would grow up to sing on the radio with the top group in the country? I heard that concert with your folks and you did a fabulous job.

Bill is gettin' a good girl for his wife. Your mom told me about how you visited him every day in all of the overseas hospitals and cooked for him. I lit candles for him and I'm glad he survived." Spencer thanked Ricci for lighting candles for Guarnere,

"Gina, Bill almost didn't make it home. He told me that when he was supposed to be flown to a hospital in Maine with some other seriously wounded soldiers, the engines started to sputter on the plane.

It went down a little bit, then the engines would come back on. Once, the plane went low enough to convince Bill that he had to get out of it. He told me that he didn't get through the war to die in an airplane before he got home.

Bill got up from a stretcher and hopped on one leg, telling the nurse, 'Give me a goddamn parachute. I'm goin' out the door.' He told me he decided to take his chances jumping out of the plane before it crashed.

The nurse told him to get back on the stretcher. He said, 'I'll kick that door open and jump out o' this plane.' Luckily the engines started to work again and the plane leveled out. They had to make an emergency landing in Gander, Newfoundland."

"Oh my God, Leigh! He had already been through so much. "

"I was horrified when Bill told me. Thank God he got home safe and sound. Just think, he hopped on one leg and he was ready to jump out of that plane! He's tough and determined. That's probably why he survived his injury."

Ricci finished with the curling iron. She set it on the stove to cool and began to brush Leigh's hair. Soft curls framed Spencer's face and her hair was perfectly coiffed. Gina took a can of hair spray out of her purse and sprayed Leigh's hair.

"Go have a look in the mirror and tell me what you think." Leigh went down the hall and entered the bathroom. She smiled upon seeing her hair styled to perfection.She returned to the kitchen, telling Ricci,

"Thanks, Gina. It looks beautiful! If you want more coffee or cookies, just help yourself. Spencer opened another cabinet door and took out a sugar bowl. She withdrew a five dollar bill and handed the money to Ricci.

" You don't owe me anything." Spencer eventually convinced Ricci to take the money to pay for her hair styling appointment and to leave a generous tip. Gina helped herself to another mug of coffee and two pizzelles. The women chatted for awhile and Ricci finished her coffee and cookies. Leigh asked her,

"Would you like to ride to the church with me in the limousine the USO provided? There's plenty of room. Two of my friends are riding with me. There's room for one more passenger." Gina happily accepted Spencer's offer,

"I've never ridden in a limo before. It's nice to know somebody famous."

"I'm not famous, the USO people are very generous." Soon, the limo arrived and the women rode to the church. When the limousine drivers picked up Bill, his Best Man Johnny Martin and the groomsmen, Joe Toye, George Luz, Bull Randleman and Buck Compton, Bill asked Johnny,

"Did ya ever think in a million years that we would be ridin' in one o' these fancy cars? " Martin grinned, telling Guarnere, "I never thought in a million years that you could pass for a gentleman." Bill ruffled Johnny's hair, saying,

"Shaddup, ya moron!"

Eugene Roe, Donald Malarkey, Colonel Sink, Lewis Nixon, Joe Liebgott, Frank Perconte and Major Winters attended the wedding. The men had no preference of being seated on the groom's or bride's family sections since they all knew Bill and Leigh.

The church organist played some instrumental pieces while the ushers helped get the friends and family members seated. When "The Wedding March" (the traditional music played at weddings) began, the priest, Bill, Joe Toye, Buck Compton , George Luz, Bull Randleman and Johnny Martin entered the area close to the altar from a small door on the right side of the church that led to the sacristy.

Bill was wearing his dress uniform adorned with all of his ribbons from the medals he was awarded. His jump wings were prominently displayed above the ribbons.

Guarnere's best man and groomsmen were similarly attired. The men wore their highly polished Corcoran boots. Bill was once again at a healthy weight and he looked handsome as he patiently awaited the appearance of his bride to be.

Next came Melissa, Leigh's Maid of Honor, Sue Swart Jordan, Teresa Guarnere and her sisters, Julia and Maria. Leigh's cousin's six year old son, Brian Howell was the ring bearer.

His eyes lit up at the sight of the men in their uniforms. He was quite taken with Bill. Upon meeting Guarnere, Brian told him that he would be a paratrooper someday.

Bill had an extra Screaming Eagle Airborne patch and he gave it to Brian. Guarnere smiled when he saw that the patch was sewn on one shoulder of Brian's suit jacket.

When Brian reached the altar he held the pillow with the rings in one hand and solemnly saluted Guarnere and his friends.They returned Howell's salute, smiling at him.

After everyone was in their proper places, the organist repeated the opening bars of "The Wedding March" at full volume. This was a time honored tradition that let those seated in the pews know that they should stand up before the bride begins her walk down the aisle. Family members and friends stood up and looked toward the entrance of the church.

Leigh had a beaming smile on her face and her arm was looped through her father's arm as they slowly walked toward the altar. She carried a bouquet of red and white roses with Baby's Breath and rose leaves with English Ivy. Bill caught his first glimpse of his bride in her wedding dress and veil. He thought,

"My baby's lookin' breathtakin'ly beautiful."

Guarnere had a brilliant smile on his face as Spencer got closer to him. When she stood a few inches from Bill, Leigh kissed her father's cheek.

Cal let go of her arm and, in the Italian tradition, shook hands with Bill before going to sit by his wife. Guarnere took Leigh's hand and kissed it, before taking her hand in his as they walked the short distance to the altar. He whispered,

"Baby, you're gorgeous!" " Thanks, Honey. You look so handsome."

The priest began the ceremony. During one part of the wedding, Bill and Leigh had to use kneelers similar to the ones in the pews. Guarnere anticipated this and had worked out a way to do this during his numerous physical therapy sessions.

They each took a candle and used the flames from both candles to light a single candle at the altar. Both candles then had the flames blown out while the single candle burned. This symbolized two becoming one.

Before the couple took their vows, the priest told family members and friends,

"At this time, the bride and groom wish to take a moment to speak.

Bill held both of Leigh's hands in his as he faced her, telling Spencer, their families and their friends,

"I'm thankful that (he pronounced the word as 'dat') the man upstairs gave me more than my share o' miracles an' some blessins. It was a miracle a guy in a jeep happened to show up right after Joe an' I got hit. That probably saved our lives 'cause we got the help we needed right away.I was blessed wit' good medics, doctors an' nurses who helped me stay alive an' recover."

Augusta Guarnere got a lace edged handkerchief from her purse and wiped some tears from her eyes as she listened to her son. Guarnere continued,

"I was blessed the day we met at Camp Toccoa. It was another blessin' when you agreed to be my girl. Sweetheart, I never told ya this, but somehow I knew when I asked you to be my girl, that I would marry ya someday. An' here we are!

Leigh, I was blessed to have ya by my side every day after I got hit in Bastogne.You cooked for me an' brought the food, even in terrible weather. Not once did ya take a break from visitin' me in every hospital from Paris to Scotland. I could see you were exhausted sometimes, but you never complained.

When I told ya to stay away from the hospital in Paris because I thought it would be too much for ya to take, you told me,

'Bill, General Patton himself couldn't keep me away from this hospital!'" There was a ripple of laughter in the church from the family members and friends.

"I knew you prayed for me every day an' lit a candle at Notre Dame Cathedral. One o' the nurses saw ya there an' told me. Havin' you there lookin' after me and bein' there made me feel stronger. I never had to wonder if you would still wanna get married after I lost my leg. You kept me sane, Leigh." Some of the Easy Company men quickly wiped tears from their eyes, hoping that no one noticed. Bill continued,

"Sweetheart, I love ya more than I can put into words. I'm honored an' blessed to make you my wife today." Spencer's parents, grandparents and Gina Ricci wiped away some tears . Most of Bill's family also wiped away some tears.They were touched by Guarnere's words. Leigh smiled and began to speak,

"Bill, the first day we met, I noticed and appreciated your kindness and compassion. You have always treated me with respect and you have always made me feel appreciated, loved, safe and treasured.

I thank God for bringing you into my life and I thank Him for saving your life. There are five occasions that are the happiest times of my life.

The first was when you asked me to be your girl when we were at Camp Toccoa. The second took place at Fort Benning when you confessed your love for me. Proposing to me in Paris was the third When you were officially off of the critical list in the hospital was the fourth occasion and becoming your wife today is the fifth occasion.

Bill, you made me sound heroic. I was there to help you because I love you." Both Louise Spencer and Augusta Guarnere wiped away some tears with lace edged handkerchiefs.

You're my hero. You helped save the life of your friend and you overcame a situation that would have crushed most men. I admire the way you never gave up and I thank God that He made you tough and determined.

I love you more than words can ever describe or explain, and I'm honored and blessed to become your wife today." The priest asked,

"William and Leigh, have you entered into marriage without coercion, freely and wholeheartedly?" They each replied,

"I have." The priest then asked,

"Are you prepared, as you follow the path of marriage, to love and honor each other for as long as you both shall live?" They each answered,

"I am." Next, the priest asked,

"Are you prepared to accept children lovingly from God and to bring them up according to the laws of Christ and his Church?" Bill and Leigh each replied,

"I am." The priest asked Bill and Leigh to continue holding hands as they said their vows. Bill said,

"I, William Joseph Guarnere, take you, Leigh Ann Spencer, to be my lawful wedded wife, to have an' to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness an' health, until death do us part." Leigh replied,

"I, Leigh Ann Spencer, take you, William Joseph Guarnere, to be my lawful wedded husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and health, until death do us part."

The priest acknowledged Bill's and Leigh's decision to marry. He then prayed for God to bless their union. Next, Brian Howell stepped up to stand by the priest as he performed a blessing over the wedding rings. Guarnere picked up Leigh's ring from the small pillow in Howell's hands.

"Leigh, receive this ring as a sign o' my love an' fidelity, in the name of the Father, an' of the Son, an' of the Holy Spirit." Bill put the gold band on her finger, placing her engagement ring on top of it. Spencer picked up Guarnere's ring,

"William, receive this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit." The priest told them,

"By the powers vested in me, according to the laws of Christ and his church and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, I pronounce you man and wife. William, you may kiss your bride."

Bill tenderly kissed Leigh and everyone applauded. The recessional music played as the newlyweds walked down the aisle hand in hand. They posed for many wedding pictures, including posing with both sets of parents and Leigh's grandparents.

Guarnere asked the photographer to take a picture of him kissing Leigh. The couple had their eyes closed the way they did in the black and white picture from the automated photo booth in London. The church bells began to chime.

Bill and Leigh stood near the entrance of the church to shake hands with or hug those who attended the wedding. Guests and family members lined the steps of the church to throw rice as Bill and Leigh walked out of the church and into a waiting limousine. They headed to a large reception room in a nearby hotel.

Once they were inside the car, Guarnere gave his wife a passionate kiss,

"Baby, I love you. This is the happiest day o' my life."

"I love you, too, Honey This is a dream come true and it's the happiest day of my life, too. You just made me the happiest woman in South Philadelphia."

@ethereal-jumpwings @wontyoutakeitback @rogue-barnes-durin-main @celie-voss @luciferfansblog @madisonskagg32 @stinkyrat0

@otherperson12 @cagzzz107 @itsyourbadwolf-blog @hbowarismydopamine @naomi-1234 @breadsprinkles @sparkycorleone @weird-obsessed-girl @lizziebitch33 @alluringmoonlightbabe @bellewintersroe @f1-and-shiz @bookfansworld @marycorleone @brassknucklespeirs @softguarnere @belladonnange

#bill guarnere #easy company #william guarnere #how-are-those-nuts-sarge #band of brothers #wild bill guarnere #band of brothers imagine #vintagelavenderskies #bill guarnere imagine #ethereal-jumpwimgs #rogue-barnes-durin-main #band of brothers fans #bill guarnere x reader

[msmercury84]

Getting Ready for the Wedding

*Author's Note: My depiction of Bill Guarnere is solely based on the actor's portrayal.*

In addition to Guarnere's ongoing physical therapy, he and Leigh devoted countless hours learning how to manage a slow dance and a moderate swing dance on his prosthetic leg. About two weeks before their wedding, Spencer told him,

"If you aren't up to dancing, I understand, Honey. The first dance as husband and wife doesn't mean as much to me as your well being. I don't mind sitting out some uptempo songs. The last thing I want is for you to be in pain." Bill fell back on his Easy Company training mindset, refusing to give up.

"Baby, ain't no way in hell that (he pronounced the word as 'dat') I won't dance wit' my beautiful wife on our weddin' day." Spencer tried to reason with him,

"If you're in agony, it isn't worth the risk." Bill pulled Leigh close to him, kissing her and telling her firmly but gently,

"I'm doin' this, Honey. I'm walkin' OK an' I believe that I can do this."

"If you know you can do it, that's good enough for me. Bill gave her a tender kiss, saying afterwards,

"Thanks for understandin' an' believin' in me, Baby. I love you."

"I love you, too, Bill. I'm so proud of the way you never give up."

When Bill told his mother about his plans, she tried in vain to get him to change his mind about dancing. Like Leigh, she didn't want Bill to be in pain. Augusta called her future daughter-in-law hoping that she could persuade Bill to change his mind. Leigh gently and respectfully told her,

"Mama, we both know that he's stubborn. We also know that if Bill says he's going to do something, he's going to do it."

"You're right, you smart little cookie. When you two start havin' babies,I'll be the happiest Nonna in town."

"I'll be the happiest wife and mother in town. Mama, I may need lots of advice about taking care of babies because I only know which end to diaper and which end to feed. Of course, I can ask my mother, but if I need fast help or a Nonna to come over, I'll need to call you." Augusta laughed,

"That's a good start, Sweetie. You can ask me for advice or help any time. "

After the telephone conversation ended with Mrs. Guarnere, Leigh got back to work on her wedding dress. She giggled as she put the zipper in the back of the dress.

Leigh hid the zipper under a long row of silk covered buttons. It gave the illusion that the only way the dress could be removed was by a painstaking process of unbuttoning most of the long row of buttons. She was looking forward to Bill's reaction when he encountered the buttons on their wedding night.

Spencer was pleased that the dress was coming along well. She purchased the fabric, lace and the pattern in Paris for a fraction of the cost of a wedding dress from a couture dress maker. The French pattern was very detailed and difficult, but the dress was looking beautiful.

Since the dress was nearing completion, Leigh made a short veil out of the French lace from her wedding dress. It was easy to make and Leigh was pleased with the way it looked.

She finished the dress the next day. Leigh carefully pressed it and hung it by itself in the closet. She was ready for the wedding and she was eager to become Bill's wife.

As she was getting ready for bed, Leigh realized that timing played a big part of her meeting Bill at Camp Toccoa. Had she left the office a few minutes sooner or later, she would've avoided the paratrooper in training from Dog Company.

Sergeant Guarnere might have passed by her on the walkway instead of coming to her rescue. Leigh laughed as she thought,

"I should find out that guy's name and send him a Thank You card." Had the paratrooper in training not been obnoxious, Spencer might have avoided her destiny. She thought that running into Bill was the best thing she ever did.

The night before the wedding, after the wedding rehearsal and the rehearsal supper, Bill called Leigh, telling her,

"Sweetheart, there's an Italian tradition of the groom serenadin' the bride before the weddin'. The guy stands in front of his girl's house to do the singin'.

Leigh, I love you, but there ain't no way I'm standin' out on the street singin' for your neighbors to hear. I'm gonna sing to you on the telephone. I hope that's OK wit' you." Spencer assured him that singing on the phone was fine with her.

Guarnere sang one of his favorite songs, "Walkin' My Baby Back Home." Leigh was smiling as she listened to Bill. She enjoyed listening to him sing and thought that he had a nice voice.

When the song ended, Leigh told him

"You're so sweet to do this for me. I'll never forget this and I love to hear you sing." Augusta, Joseph and Teresa went into the kitchen to give Bill some privacy.

Guarnere lowered his voice so his parents and sister couldn't hear, telling Leigh,

"Baby, by this time tomorrow night, I'm gonna be makin' love wit' my beautiful wife."

"I'm looking forward to it, Honey. Just thinking about it is getting me worked up."

"I'm takin' my time so I can make love to ya the way you deserve." He went back to a normal conversational volume, adding,

"It's late, so I'm gonna go to bed. I love you, Baby. I'll see ya tomorrow. Goodnight." Spencer said she loved him, too and told Bill,

"Goodnight."

@ethereal-jumpwings @wontyoutakeitback @lizziebitch33 @alluringmoonlightbabe @marycorleone @stinkyrat09 @havaneselover08 @belladonnange @breadsprinkles @brassknucklespeirs @bellewintersroe @bookfansworld

#bill guarnere #easy company #william guarnere #how-are-those-nuts-sarge #wild bill guarnere #band of brothers imagine #bill guarnere imagine #vintagelavenderskies #ethereal-jumpwings #ethereal jumpwings #mrsalwayswrite #rogue-barnes-durin-main

[msmercury84]

"I Double Dare You," Chapter 11: Their First Night Together (Part Two)

*Author's Note: WARNING, NOT FOR THOSE UNDER 18. SMUT.*

Guarnere kissed her lips, trailing kisses down her neck until he reached the junction of her neck and her collar bone.

He gently sucked on the soft skin, causing Leigh to moan. Bill kissed her lips and gave the other side of her neck the same treatment.

"Bill, that feels so good!" She trailed kisses along Guarnere's jaw, pausing to gently nip at his ear lobe before unbuttoning his shirt. Leigh could feel his cock getting hard as she gently sucked on the skin of his neck, taking care to keep any love bites well below the collar of his shirt.

Guarnere groaned, moving his hands under Leigh's dress, caressing her ass through her silk panties. Bill used one hand to support her back while he moved his other hand to her thigh, pushing Spencer's dress higher. He lightly traced his finger over the soft skin at the top of her thigh.

Leigh gasped at his touch. Bill was so maddeningly close to the area she wanted him to caress. She parted her legs, hoping Guarnere would take the hint.

He grinned and gently ran one finger up and down the strip of silky fabric between her legs, feeling the unmistakable evidence of her arousal.Guarnere replied, keeping his voice soft and low

"My sweet baby is so wet."

Bill pushed Spencer's dress a little further up and his finger traced circles around her clit. Guarnere began to suck on the soft skin below her ear while moving his finger faster as it circled her clit. A few minutes later, she cried out as she came.

"That's my angel, my sweetheart's comin' for me already." Guarnere's hands moved up to gently cup Leigh's breasts. She loved the sensation of his hands caressing her hard nipples.

Spencer moved her hand down to rub Bill's cock through the fabric of his trousers. She traced the outline of the tip of his cock with her fingers, prompting a sharp intake of breath from Guarnere. He replied,

"Baby, wrap your legs around me." Spencer complied and she wrapped her arms around Bill's neck. He lifted her up with one hand while he grabbed the pack of cigarettes and his lighter.

"Hand them to me, Honey. It will be easier for you to carry me.

"Thanks, Baby. " He handed the cigarettes and lighter to Spencer, then he wrapped his arms around her and started walking toward the stairs.

Bill quickly climbed the stairs and nudged the door to Leigh's bedroom open with his foot. He carried Spencer into her bedroom, gently placing her on the edge of the bed.

Guarnere went back to search for the light switch. He turned it on and shut the door. Leigh placed Bill's cigarettes and lighter on the bedside table that held the ashtray.

Bill wasted no time in removing his boots, socks and shirt, leaving them on the floor beside the bed. He sat beside Leigh, telling her,

"Now it's your turn, Sweetheart. He reached behind her, unzipping her dress. She stood, taking her arms out of the sleeves, allowing the dress to fall to the floor. Spencer pulled her slip over her head and it fell on the floor beside her dress.She unhooked her garter belt, removing it and her stockings.

Leigh sat on the edge of the bed. When Bill walked over, getting ready to sit beside her, she reached up to unbuckle his belt. He took the hint, unbuttoning the fly of his trousers and stepping out of them.

He started to remove the quilt from the bed. Leigh got up to help him, removing the top sheet and pillows. Guarnere sat down beside Leigh, wrapping his arms around her.

Spencer caressed Bill's broad shoulders and his back. He kissed Leigh, then he traced kisses across the tops of her breasts. Bill reached around to unfasten her bra. After a couple of attempts, some soft swearing and some grumbling, Leigh told him,

"Honey, let me do it."

"I don't know how ya deal wit' that every day. Goddamned stubborn fastener."

She unhooked her bra, dropping it over the side of the bed and onto the floor. Bill drank in the sight of her full breasts and hard, pink nipples.

"Baby, you're so beautiful! Bill began to gently caress Spencer's breasts, wrapping his lips around one nipple, sucking on it. "Let's lay down, Sweetheart." Leigh reclined on the bed and Guarnere stretched out beside her, kissing her neck. He resumed sucking on Spencer's nipples, causing Leigh to arch her back.

"Does my baby want more o'that?"

"Oh, yes! You almost made me come." Guarnere continued to suck on one nipple, then the other. Leigh stroked Bill's hair,arching her back and moaning. A small orgasm rippled through her and she cried out.

Guarnere told her, in a low, husky voice,

"I can't wait to taste you. " Bill kissed his way down to the waistband of her panties. He ran the tip of his tongue under the waistband, teasing her, loving the sounds of passion that Spencer made.

Guarnere positioned his mouth over her silk covered clit, gently sucking on it. Bill's lips traveled lower, his tongue licking along the wet silk covering the opening of her sex and back to her clit. Spencer's hips involuntarily thrust up.

Bill removed the panties, sliding them down Leigh's legs, letting them fall to the floor. He looked at Spencer as she parted her legs enough to reveal the lips of her sex open and glistening wet.

"You're gorgeous, Leigh. Such a beautiful angel!"

Guarnere gently sucked her clit into his mouth as he used one finger of one hand to enter her warm interior. She gripped the bottom sheet with both hands.

"You taste so good, Baby. " He continued to suck Spencer's clit and use his finger inside her as Leigh rode out her orgasm.

Guarnere kissed her passionately. Leigh tasted herself on his lips and found it extremely erotic. She said,

"Honey, let me see you." He stood to remove and step out of his boxer shorts. Spencer encircled his cock with her hand, stroking him and replying,

"You're magnificent. Am I doing this right?"

"Oh, God, yes!" Leigh decided to explore his cock with her tongue. She licked the tip, then asked him,

"How do I please you with my mouth?"

"Wrap your lips around me, no teeth, Baby. If ya want, hold on to me an' take me in your mouth. Kinda move your head up an' down."

Spencer gripped the base of Bill's cock with her hand as she wrapped her lips around the head, moving her head up and down as she kept her lips around his cock.

Guarnere groaned louder. Leigh tried to take a little more of him into her mouth.

"Fuck, yes!" Guarnere knew that he would come if she continued.

"Sweetheart, stop!" Spencer did as Bill requested. She looked up at Guarnere with a puzzled look on her face. He explained,

"Honey, you done everything just fine, almost too fine. You can finish like this another time, but only if ya want to. I don't want ya doin' anythin' ya don't like. Baby, let's make love.Just give me a minute, I gotta take care o' somethin'."

"I want to do it again, Honey. Let me practice enough so I can give you as much pleasure as you gave me."

"You can practice whatever ya want with me any time,Sweetheart." Leigh waited as he unzipped the duffel bag and got out one cardboard box of condoms. He selected one and carefully rolled it on, pinching the tip to ensure that there was no air in it.

"Is a woman's first time supposed to be uncomfortable? It didn't hurt at all."

"That's what I always thought. Baby, I'm gonna take it real easy an' slow wit' ya. I think that bastard kinda finished fast an' you might still be a virgin."

Guarnere kissed Leigh as he knelt between her legs, rubbing the head of his cock against her folds. He slowly inserted himself into her, asking,

"Does this feel OK, Honey?" Spencer felt fine for a second or two. Then there was a surprising sensation of pain. She gasped and said,

"Oh! I didn't think it would hurt." Guarnere kissed Leigh, reassuring her,

"It's normal to feel like that, Sweetheart. Do ya wanna stop? I don't wanna do anythin' to hurt ya."

"No, Honey, don't stop. I just need to get used to you." Bill kissed her tenderly, not moving inside her. He noticed that Leigh was starting to move a little bit.

"Is my angel startin' to feel better?"

"Yes. It's starting to feel good." Spencer moved beneath him a little more and Guarnere smiled when he heard her saying,

"Oh, that's better!"

"Wrap your legs around me, Baby." She eagerly followed his instructions, asking,

"Is it good for both of us if I move with you?"

"Yes." He was still being careful and going slowly. Bill kissed the tip of Leigh's nose and chuckled when she said,

"Can we sort of pick up the pace?" Guarnere began to thrust into her a little faster.

"Is that better, Baby?" Spencer answered in a breathy voice,

"Oh, yes!"

Soon, she was meeting Bill stroke for stroke. Guarnere built up a steady rhythm of thrusting inside her.

Spencer wrapped her arms around Bill, burying her face in his neck to muffle her cries of passion. Guarnere knew he was getting close. He circled his hips, making Leigh's orgasm start. She was caught up in a wave of pleasure, saying,

"Bill, oh, Honey!" He groaned, feeling her contracting around his cock. His thrusts became deeper, losing rhythm until he came.

They held tight to each other, trying to calm their breathing.Then, Bill sat up, turning his back to Leigh for a moment. He reached down for a small metal trash can by the bed. Guarnere carefully removed the condom, depositing it into the can.

"I promise to take care o' that in a little while, Baby."

Bill reached out to grab the quilt and made sure that they were both covered. He stretched out beside Leigh, pulling her close to him. Spencer wrapped her arms around his neck.Guarnere tenderly kissed her, saying,

"Honey, I love you so much." Bill stroked her back. He chuckled,

"An' to think you worried that ya wouldn't make it good for me."

"Honey, I got to have my first time with the right man after all. Bill, I love you with all of my heart. Now I understand why people rave on about this."

You done just fine, Angel. See, there's a difference. Anybody can have sex. It might be good, don't get me wrong. What we done was make love. I just learned that when ya love somebody, it makes everythin' a hundred percent better.

"I didn't know it could feel like this. I never had what you did with your lips and tongue...down there before." Bill grinned,

"So, ya liked that?"

"Oh, hell yes! The girls in the dormitory and I talked about it. I knew it existed."

"That's another first time for ya."

" I'm looking forward to learning more things." Guarnere couldn't help but chuckle at her remark about learning more. He kissed her, remarking,

"Looks like I got an eager student wantin' to learn. Give my body some time to kinda rest, it won't take too long, and I would love to 'teach' ya other things." Bill ran his fingers though Spencer's hair, adding, "Baby, you're beautiful all over."

"I can say the same about you, Bill. You need to give Sobel credit for one thing, he got you into perfect condition." Guarnere grudgingly replied,

"Yeah, he got us all built up. That's the only thing he done right so far." Bill had an idea, asking Spencer,

"How about we clean up together? I noticed you got a shower an' a bathtub. "

"It's fine with me. I have a bathrobe to wear plus an extra one, but even if it fit, I can't picture you wearing a robe covered in floral print." Gp

"That ain't for me. I can put my clothes on again."

"I'd rather see your sexy body." Bill smirked, raising his eyebrows and replying,

"You're sayin' that ya want me to be naked in front of your roommates if they show up?"

"No, I want you all to myself, you smug smart ass."

"I don't want anybody else, just my sassy angel. Let me get some clean boxer shorts to take in wit' me. I'll put on what I was wearin'." Leigh got out of bed and walked to the chest of drawers, getting out a peach colored quilted robe and a peach silk slip that could be used as a nightgown.

They gathered their clothing and other items and headed to the bathroom. Guarnere asked Leigh to wait before she went into the bathroom while he disposed of the used condom.

Leigh and Bill entered the shower. After being intimate, they felt comfortable being naked around each other. Guarnere made a mental note to make love in the shower another time. With the exception of a few shared kisses, the shower was uneventful.

They cleaned up quickly and went about putting on deodorant, brushing their teeth and getting dressed. Spencer dried her hair the best she could with a towel and combed it, knowing that her wavy and curly hair would be in soft curls once it was completely dry.

Bill and Leigh left the bathroom. Spencer headed to a closet in the hall and got out fresh sheets and pillow cases for the bed.

"Honey, do you want an extra pillow or an extra blanket?"

"No, Baby. Everythin' is fine. Let me help ya make the bed." They got the bed made.

"Help yourself to anything you want if you get hungry or thirsty. "

"Thanks, Baby. I don't need nothin' right now except you in my arms and some sleep." Leigh picked up the dirty sheets, pillow cases and the clothes she had on earlier and placed the items in a clothes hamper in a corner of the room by the closet.

They turned down the covers of the bed. Leigh turned on the bedside table lamp. Bill turned off the light in the bedroom and closed the door. He removed his trousers and shirt and got into bed, selecting the side of the bed closest to his duffel bag.

Spencer removed the robe, folding it and placing it on top of the chest of drawers . She walked to the bed. Guarnere noticed the peach silk slip,commenting,

"That looks real pretty on ya, Baby." Leigh smiled,

"Thanks. It's one of my favorite colors."

Leigh turned off the lamp and got into bed, getting under the covers. Bill was reclining on his back.

He pulled Spencer close to him, kissing her,

"Sweet dreams, Baby." She put her head on Bill's chest and he wrapped his arms around her. Leigh kissed his chest, saying, "Sweet dreams, Honey."

Guarnere stroked Leigh's hair. She felt loved and secure in Bill's arms. He heard her sigh contentedly before drifting off to sleep. Bill kissed the top of her head and closed his eyes as sleep claimed him.

@lizziebitch33 @alluringmoonlightbabe @cagzzz107 @bellewintersroe @sparkycorleone @lenabob

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[msmercury84]

A Letter to Leigh's Father

Bill awoke when the sun was beginning to rise. He got out of bed, taking care to not awaken Leigh. Guarnere put on the uniform trousers and the uniform shirt he had worn the night before. He picked up his duffel bag and headed downstairs to the kitchen.

He placed the bag on the floor and opened it, extracting one sheet of V Mail stationery, a V Mail envelope and a pen. V Mail accounted for the majority of letters sent since war broke out.

Those in military service were allowed two free sheets of V Mail forms per day from the Post Office or the Army Post Office. Letters were written on pre-printed forms.

Then the letters were sent to other V Mail offices overseas where the forms would be photographed and the image would be stored on microfilm. Images of the letters were then printed smaller than normal, but large enough to be legible.

All letters had to be read by censors to ensure that no confidential information about military activity would be made public. It typically took letters about a month to get to the intended recipient.

Bill wrote the address on the envelope. He composed the letter to Cal Spencer:

Dear Mr. Spencer,

As you already know, I love your daughter with all of my heart. Sir, I would like to ask you for your daughter's hand in marriage.

If you give us your blessing, we will get married after the war is over. I will work hard to provide a home and money to support her. Mr. Spencer, I promise to treat Leigh with the respect she deserves and to be a gentleman and a devoted husband for the rest of my life.

Sincerely,

Bill Guarnere

Bill carefully folded the letter and placed it in the envelope. He placed the envelope in his duffel bag, then he took a bath. Once he was dressed in a clean uniform, socks and his boots, Bill fixed breakfast for himself and Leigh.

Spencer was pleasantly surprised with breakfast in bed. She noticed that Bill seemed to be in a particularly good mood. Leigh got ready to go to work and Bill reported for training at the Army base. He took the envelope containing the letter to the Army Post Office.

One month later, Cal Spencer received the letter from Guarnere.Later that night, Mr. Spencer sent a V Mail to Guarnere, saying,

Dear Bill,

Louise and I gladly give our blessings for you to marry Leigh. We know that you will be an excellent husband for our daughter and we're happy to welcome you into the family.

Best Wishes,

Cal Spencer

Four weeks from that day, Bill got the letter from Leigh's father. Guarnere was elated to read the good news. Had Cal refused, Bill was prepared to elope with Leigh. Guarnere felt that having Spencer's permission to marry Leigh was the proper thing to do. It was official, Bill could marry the love of his life.

@lizziebitch33 @wontyoutakeitback @alluringmoonlightbabe @bellewintersroe @lenabob @cagzzz107 @stinkyrat09 @breadsprinkles @ethereal-jumpwings @sparkycorleone @havaneselover08

#bill guarnere #easy company #william guarnere #how-are-those-nuts-sarge #band of brothers #wild bill guarnere #band of brothers imagine #valhallavalkyrie9 #mrsalwayswrite #bill guarnere imagine #vintagelavenderskies #ethereal-jumpwings #ethereal jumpwings #rogue-barnes-durin-main

[msmercury84]

D-Day

*Author's Note: I am using the movie version of how Bill learned about his brother's death. The account of Wild Bill's actions after he landed in Normandy came from Guarnere's book and the movie. A special thank you to scarecrowmaxelectricboogaloo2 for the image in the upper left corner of Guarnere holding the rosary beads. This was posted out of sequence to commemorate the anniversary of D-Day. The story about Bill and Johnny Martin in Scotland is true.*

***********************************************************************

Leigh and Melissa were on edge. They knew that their boyfriends would soon be leaving for their first combat jump. The men had been prepared to go the day before, but heavy fog in the jump zone cancelled the event.

Had Spencer known about a shocking discovery made by Bill before he parachuted into Normandy, her anxiety would have been much worse. After the jump was called off, the men were assembled in the marshalling area to watch a movie.

Guarnere picked up a jacket he thought was his. When he saw a letter in the pocket addressed to Johnny Martin, he realized his mistake, but decided to read the letter.

Bill felt as if the floor had fallen out from under him as he read that his older brother Henry had been killed in action in Monte Cassino, Italy.He hadn't heard from his brother, but he thought it was due to the fact that V Mail took at least one month to be delivered.

His face showed surprise and shock as he struggled with his emotions. Bill was determined to take the news like a man. He vowed to kill as many German soldiers as he could in retaliation for his brother's death. It was no longer war for Guarnere, it was now a vendetta.

The day of the jump, he told Martin about finding the letter. When Johnny offered his condolences Bill replied,

"I feel sorry for my ma. He was...let's get this thing over wit'."before walking away from Martin. Those in Easy Company who knew of Bill's loss stayed out of his way.

Later in the day, Leigh got her rosary beads from a drawer in the chest of drawers in her bedroom. She knelt to pray for Bill to be protected during battle and for his safe return. Melissa was also praying for Bull.

A few hours later, numerous C47 Sky Trains loaded with paratroopers took off from Upottery Air Field. A number of the local residents wiped away a few tears as they watched the planes flying overhead, knowing that some of the young men aboard the airplanes would never come back.

Bill clutched his rosary beads as he sat in the plane with a menacing look on his face. He felt possessed by anger, wanting to get started on his vendetta as soon as possible.

Guarnere believed that he would be killed instantly. He didn't share this feeling with Leigh for obvious reasons. Bill wanted to kill as many of the enemy as he could before his life ended.

Later in the flight, as they approached the jump zone, the C47 was going too fast and it was lower than recommended for the men to jump. The pilot was shaken by the sudden death of the co-pilot from anti aircraft fire. He quickly turned on the green light to indicate that it was time to jump.

Lieutenant Winters told the men to "Stand up and hook up." Bill's leg went to sleep from the heavy leg bag. A British officer came up with the idea to have a bag that would be worn on one leg. It could hold a folding rifle and necessary supplies.

It added about 50 extra pounds on the paratroopers. Unfortunately, many bags were torn away in the rush of air from the propellers and jumping out of the plane. The paratrooper behind Guarnere had to shove him out of the open door of the plane.

The men didn't wind up in their intended location and many paratroopers lost the supplies in their leg bags. Winters landed not far from the burning wreckage of the C47 that carried the leader of Easy Company, Lieutenant Meehan.

He set out to locate the men. Using the metal crickets assigned them and by roaming the drop zone, the men of Easy gradually reassembled.

Bill had no gun and no cricket when he landed. All he had was a knife and a bent carbine. He ran into a soldier from Fox Company. Guarnere held him to the ground, pushing his knee into the fellow paratrooper's chest. Bill put the knife to the young man's throat, asking him,

"Whose side are you on?" He took a gun from a dead German soldier, but it made a distinct sound that was unlike the sound made by American weapons.

Every time Guarnere fired the gun, American troops would fire in his direction. Bill quickly got rid of the gun and found his preferred weapon of choice, a Thompson machine gun. From that point on, he displayed fearless behavior that earned him the nickname he would have for the rest of his life, Wild Bill, and a Silver Star.

Bill's drive to kill as many enemy soldiers as possible made him run afoul with Winters. A horse drawn wagon with enemy soldiers aboard was approaching down a country lane with tall, dense hedges on each side.

The Lieutenant told the men,

"Wait for my command." Bill stood up and killed the enemy soldiers and a few of their horses with his "Tommy" gun. Winters shouted,

"That's enough, Guarnere!" He faced Bill, telling him in no uncertain terms,

"When I tell you 'wait for my command,' Sergeant, you wait for my command." Guarnere tersely replied,

"Yes, Sir." Joe Toye used a pistol to put a badly injured horse out of its misery. Bill walked away, muttering something about Winters acting like "a fine Quaker," not wanting to kill.

Guarnere and the Easy Company men had the task of destroying four large German guns that were strategically placed to fire upon Allied troops landing on the beach at Normandy.

He and the other paratroopers were fighting German soldiers in trenches dug in a field near a house called Brecourt Manor. Buck Compton encountered an enemy soldier in the trench and tried to shoot him, only to have his gun malfunction. He would later say that Bill appeared behind him "out of nowhere" to kill the man before he had the chance to shoot Compton.

Although they were outnumbered by enemy soldiers, the men of Easy Company destroyed the guns and probably saved countless lives of Allied soldiers landing on the beach.Lieutenant Winters discovered and took maps plotting the locations of German guns in the area.

At the end of the day, the men were having their supper in an Army truck. Lieutenant Winters stopped by to talk to the men. Before he left he remarked to Bill,

"Sergeant Guarnere."

"Sir?" Winters grinned,

"I'm not a Quaker." Guarnere, the men and Winters laughed about the remark. A few men good naturedly patted Bill on his back. Guarnere grinned, replying,

"He must be a Mennonite. There are a lot of 'em in Lancaster County."

Melissa and Leigh got through the ensuing days the best that they could. Luckily they were spared the news about the fiery crash of the C47. The day finally arrived when the men would return for one week. Adams and Spencer waited outside in front of the office. Soon, Bull appeared. He hugged and kissed Melissa. They disappeared from the base for some time alone.

Spencer waited anxiously until she spotted Bill. Although he was exhausted he covered the distance between himself and Leigh very quickly. He embraced Spencer, giving her a passionate kiss. When Bill broke the kiss, Leigh said,

"Word got around and I am so sorry about your brother, Honey. I know you were close to him. I've been praying for him to get out of purgatory. If you need some time to yourself, I understand."

"Some guys are goin' to London to raise some hell on their seven day passes. I need to be wit' you, Sweetheart. You're all that's (he pronounced the word as 'dats') keepin' me sane right now. Thanks for prayin' for my brother. If ya wait just a little bit, I need to get my duffel bag, garment bag, some boxer shorts, my shavin' stuff an' my toothbrush an' toothpaste." Leigh assured him she would wait.

While she was elated that Bill returned safely, her heart ached for Guarnere and his family. She intended to send a V Mail to his parents expressing her sympathy. Bill soon returned with his duffel and garment bags. He apologized to Leigh,

"Sorry I didn't clean up first. I just wanna get the hell out o' this place for awhile." Spencer told him there was no need to apologize. Bill put his arm around her as they walked to the house.

When they got inside the house, Leigh got a clean towel, a wash cloth and a new bar of soap for Guarnere, leaving the items on the edge of the bathtub. Spencer sat on the couch. After some time passed, Bill came downstairs wearing a clean uniform shirt and trousers. Leigh told him,

"My parents sent some real coffee in a package. They saved up enough rations coupons to ensure that we all got a treat. Would you like something to eat? I baked some fresh bread earlier today and I was able to get some bacon, eggs and some homemade butter from a farmers' market."

"Thanks for offerin' to cook for me, Baby. I'd like some scrambled eggs, bacon an' toast wit' butter to go wit' that coffee." Leigh went into the kitchen and made a fresh pot of coffee, fried the bacon, scrambled the eggs and used the broiler in the stove to make the toast from two thick slices of the homemade bread. Spencer put a generous amount of butter on both pieces of toast.

Leigh put the food on a plate and she got a napkin, silverware, salt and pepper shakers and a large mug of coffee. All of these items were then put on a tray. She carried the tray to the living room and placed it on the coffee table. Bill thanked her, saying,

"I appreciate it, Sweetheart, but I coulda walked to the kitchen table. You don't need to go to all o' that trouble for me."

"It was no trouble at all. You deserve to take it easy for awhile." Guarnere made quick work of the food. Leigh asked if he wanted anything else to eat or a second cup of coffee.

"Thanks, Leigh. I think I'll have another cup o' coffee. Just sit still, Baby, I can get it." After Bill poured more coffee into the empty mug and returned to the living room.

"You make scrambled eggs an' bacon just like my ma. That bread is better than any I've had in a long time and the coffee is damn good. Would ya please thank your folks for me?"

Guarnere sipped the coffee and soon finished the contents of the mug. He got a cigarette and his lighter out of his pocket. Bill lit the cigarette, taking a deep drag. He put the lighter back into his pocket.

"I'm glad you enjoyed everything, Bill. There's a good reason the bacon and eggs reminds you of your mom's cooking. This is another thing I asked your mom, how you liked to have food prepared."

"You're somethin' else, Baby."

"Bill, I love you. I want to spoil you a little bit."

"I love you, too, Honey. When this damn war is over, I intend to get caught up on spoilin' you. Now, I'm gonna get these dishes washed an' after that, how about we call it a night?"

"I'll take care of the dishes. You need to relax. Now, don't try to pull rank on me, I was promoted to sergeant while you were gone."

"Congratulations, Baby! I'm proud of ya." He smirked before adding, "I'm still washin' the dishes."

"OK, let's clean them together." Guarnere stubbed out the remainder of the cigarette in the ashtray. They finished doing and putting away the dishes and they cleaned the kitchen. Then, they locked the door, shut off the lights and went upstairs.

Leigh went to brush her teeth and returned to her bedroom. She made sure the window was open, since it had been a warm day. Spencer put her dress and panties in the hamper, placed her bra in the chest of drawers and got out a sleeveless cotton nightgown with small flowers on it and put it on. Bill brushed his teeth and returned to Spencer's room, removing his boots, socks, trousers and shirt before getting into bed.

Spencer turned on a lamp on a table beside the bed and turned off the light and closed the door. She got into bed and turned off the lamp.

"Sweetheart, I can't believe I'm sayin' this, but I'm too tired to do anythin'. Hope I didn't disappoint ya."

"I understand, it's OK. Bill, If you need to grieve for your brother, just let it happen. It doesn't mean that you're less of a man if you cry, it simply means that you're human. I'm here for you and I promise that I would never tell anyone if you shed some tears.

Honey, it would be bad for you to keep everything in. You might even make yourself sick, in a way, by keeping everything bottled up inside."

Bill thanked Spencer and kissed her. Leigh could feel the tears on his face. She got up, not needing to turn on the light, and got a few lace trimmed handkerchiefs from a drawer in the chest of drawers beside the bed.

She discovered more tears coursing down Bill's face and she used the handkerchief to dry them. Guarnere remained silent as he grieved the death of his brother. Leigh handed him a clean handkerchief and Bill blew his nose. He put the used handkerchief by the bed.

They remained sitting up in bed. Spencer put her arms around Bill, pulling him close to her. He embraced her, resting his head on her shoulder as the tears continued to fall. She reached for the other handkerchiefs, using one to dry the tears on Guarnere's face when he sat up for a moment.

Her heart ached for Bill. She wished she could help him feel better. Leigh silently handed the other handkerchief to him and he used it, depositing it beside the other handkerchief on the floor.

"I'll take care of those tomorrow. Just try to rest." Spencer stroked Bill's back, hoping to soothe him. She tenderly kissed the top of his head as she continued to hold Guarnere close to her. The tears soon stopped and he asked Leigh for another handkerchief. Bill blew his nose and the handkerchief joined the other used handkerchiefs on the floor by his side of the bed.

"Baby, I done a lot of killin' on D Day. I wanted to kill as many of those goddamned krauts as possible for what happened to Henry."

"I don't pretend to understand war, but I know that it's kill or be killed. I thank God that you came back. If you want to talk about it, I'll listen. I'm sorry that I never had the honor of meeting your brother." Guarnere moved back enough to kiss Leigh and remain in her arms.

"Thanks, Honey. I feel bad for Ma and Pop. I gotta tell ya the truth, I thought I'd be killed instantly. I thank God that I made it back to you, too. It was hell, Leigh, but we whipped their goddamned asses! Baby, I hope ya don't mind, but I really need to sleep."

" I understand. Sleep well, Honey." Bill asked,

"Is it OK wit' you if I put my head on your chest for a change?"

"That's fine, Bill." Guarnere snuggled close to Leigh, resting his head on her chest. Spencer held Bill and stroked his hair, soothing him until they both fell asleep. He woke Leigh from a sound sleep when he said, in a loud voice,

"Ya want I should get your freakin' Luger, ya stupid Mick?" Bill settled down after that and Spencer soon drifted off to sleep again. The next morning as they were eating breakfast, Leigh told him,

"You were talking in your sleep and you asked something about getting a Luger for someone you called a 'stupid Mick.' Were you dreaming?" Bill apologized, and said,

"Sweetheart, I must have been dreamin' about the stupid thing Malarkey did. He's been crazy to get his hands on a German gun, a Luger. A kraut got shot not too far from us.

That crazy bastard ran out into a field wit' ten machine guns firin' on us to try to get the gun from that dead guy. Turns out it wasn't even a Luger, the dummy! The krauts must have thought that he was a medic, 'cause they didn't do nothin' at first.

Then, they poured on the ammo. The rest of us covered his ass, shootin' at the krauts while Malark ran in a kinda zig zag pattern back to us. When he got his stupid ass back, I asked him what ya heard me say last night." Spencer shook her head in disbelief saying,

"Don won't last very long if he keeps up that reckless behavior."

"I think he learned his lesson, Baby." Bill didn't say anything further and Leigh didn't ask any more questions about the war. They had a quiet, relaxing day.

When Spencer got up the next morning, she found a note on the dining room table.

Sweetheart,

Johnny Martin and I are taking a train to Edinburgh, Scotland for a day trip. I will be back later tomorrow night. We will have supper while we're there, both nights, so don't worry about cooking for me.

Love Ya,

Bill

Johnny and Bill got back a little after midnight. Leigh stayed up to see him before going to bed. Guarnere looked tired when he came into the house. After embracing and kissing Spencer, Bill flinched slightly when Leigh touched his right arm. Guarnere explained,

"Baby, me an' Johnny went a little bit wild. Don't worry, I'd never do anythin' wit' another woman. I love you an' you're the only girl for me. When we got to Scotland, we got drunk as sixteen skunks.

We got matchin' tattoos of paratroopers comin' down from the sky. If I'd been sober, I'd never got tattooed. When we got up this mornin' an' looked at our arms, we both said, 'What the hell is that?'"

Guarnere removed his jacket and rolled up the right sleeve of his uniform. She saw a very detailed tattoo of a man with a parachute. Spencer said,

"The artist did a good job. Did he give you anything to put on it so you won't get infected?"

"He gave both of us some cream that we have to rub over it once a day. Are ya upset wit' me for gettin' the tattoo, Honey?"

"I'm not upset at all, Bill. It's your arm and I'm not your boss. Actually, I think it looks good. It suits you."

"You're one hell of a woman, Baby. I missed havin' my angel sleepin' beside me." Bill paused to get a cigarette and his lighter out of his jacket pocket. Once the cigarette was lit, he continued,

'Speakin' o' sleep, me an' Johnny couldn't find a place to sleep. Johnny said, 'I'll get us a place to sleep.' We went to a USO Club, but there were no beds left. So Johnny said, 'Watch this.' He went to the door an' yelled, 'Fire!' Everybody ran out. We ran in, got under the sheets, an' went to sleep. No one said a word." Spencer laughed as Bill told the story. She said,

"That's a creative way to find a place to sleep." Guarnere and Leigh went into the living room to sit on the couch and listen to the radio. After Bill finished his cigarette and stubbed it out in the ashtray, they locked the door, turned off the downstairs lights and went upstairs, getting into bed and drifting off to sleep together.

@lizziebitch33 @alluringmoonlightbabe @sparkycorleone @marycorleone @wontyoutakeitback @elioag2006

#bill guarnere #william guarnere #easy company #band of brothers #wild bill guarnere #valhallavalkyrie9 #mrsalwayswrite #bill guarnere imagine #band of brothers imagine #vintagelavenderskies #ethereal-jumpwings #ethereal jumpwings #rogue-barnes-durin-main

[msmercury84]

Surprising News for Leigh

*Author's Note: Parts of this chapter are NOT for readers under the age of 18. My depiction of Bill Guarnere is solely based on the actor's portrayal in the movie.*

*********************************************************************

A few weeks after the USO show in London, Leigh was typing letters and reports for Colonel Sink. She was filing a sheaf of completed reports when Sink entered her office.

Spencer stood at attention. She noticed that Sink was smiling and he appeared to have one hand behind his back. He told her,

"At ease, Sergeant Spencer. I just got off the telephone. The USO called and gave me some news pertaining to the Songbird of the 506th. Back in the states, the Andrews Sisters have been helping the USO promote their shows by choosing one singer from the West Coast, Dallas and New York City. The singer appeared onstage with them in the cities in which they were selected.

I am here to inform you that they have selected a singer to appear with them in Paris. One of those shows will be broadcast courtesy of the Armed Forces Radio network. That broadcast will be carried on major radio stations back in the states the following day. The singer they selected is the Songbird of the 506th." Leigh was stunned by the news.

"Sir, is this really happening? Are you sure someone isn't playing a prank?"

"It's really happening. I talked to the top brass with the USO. They had one of the agents for the Andrews Sisters in the audience at the USO concert you did in London.

He was very impressed and he let the USO know that you would be the best singer to work with the Andrews Sisters. You have the talent, plus they want someone who could dance in their high energy style."

Spencer clapped her hands together, shouting,

"Hot damn!" She instantly realized what she did, saying,

"My apologies, Sir. I am just excited."

"No harm done, Sergeant Spencer. I thought I'd give our songbird a gift and the remainder of the day off from work to celebrate." The colonel showed Leigh what he was hiding behind his back, a bottle of Moet et Chandon champagne.

"I had a couple of bottles from the stash I'd been keeping after the celebration when we were still in the states. I'm saving one for after the war and this one is for you."

Leigh had a beaming smile on her face.

"Thank you for your generous gift, Sir! I really appreciate having the rest of the day off, too."

"Since this is a special occasion, I'd like to have you come in tomorrow afternoon and work a half day. If you would like to let your folks know the good news, you may use the telephone in my office."

"Thanks, Sir. Yes, I'd like to call my parents." She left the champagne in her office and locked the office door, taking the key with her. Leigh's parents were both excited and surprised by her good news.

"Sir, I don't mean to impose after you have been extremely generous, but may I call Bill's parents to share the good news? They're like family to me." Sink permitted the call.

The normally austere colonel chuckled when he heard Augusta Guarnere loudly proclaim,

"Oh my God, Sweetie, that's wonderful news! I'll be sure to tell everybody. Does Billy know?"

"No, Mrs. Guarnere. I just learned the news and I'm on my way to find Bill to tell him."

"I'm proud of ya, Leigh!" Spencer thanked her and ended the conversation.

She thanked the colonel again and returned to her office to get her purse and the champagne bottle. Leigh turned around to leave the office and nearly collided with a young man in a uniform. He told her,

"I didn't mean to surprise you, Sergeant Spencer. Colonel Sink sent me with instructions to drive you to your house. He just wants you to be safe." Leigh thanked the soldier and accepted the ride to the house.

Once she was inside the house, Spencer put the champagne bottle in the refrigerator. She saw a note from Bill on the kitchen table:

"Sweetheart, I'm going to the Blue Boar with the boys. Love ya, Bill."

She went upstairs to change into some red shorts and a red and white floral print short sleeved blouse. Spencer knotted the blouse at her waist.She put on red espadrilles for footwear, touched up her eye makeup, powder and lipstick and brushed her hair.

Spencer put a few pound notes in her purse along with her hairbrush and cosmetics. She walked downstairs and left the house, locking the door.

Leigh made the short walk to the Blue Boar. She could hear the animated conversation as she approached the door. Joe Toye could only see a side view of Spencer from where he sat. Her head was obscured from his line of vision by a tall shrub that was close to the window. He told his brothers in arms,

"I hope that dame in the red shorts comes inside. I can't see her face, but she has curly brown hair and she's built like a..."

George Luz could see Leigh's face. He interrupted Joe,

"Knock it off, Joe!" Toye gave George a puzzled look. Bill was watching an intense game of darts involving Buck Compton and Babe Heffron.

He told Joe,

"Go introduce yourself. Ya might meet a nice girl like Leigh." Spencer entered the pub, looking for Bill. George Luz told him,

"Bill, you're right about what you told Joe. I don't think you want Toye to introduce himself to this girl." Guarnere turned around in time to see Leigh walk into the pub.

He frowned, immediately telling Joe,

"Watch what you say about my baby. Her body ain't for you to talk about. Show some respect!" Toye apologized to Bill. Guarnere stood up and walked over to Leigh. He embraced and kissed her,

"Sweetheart, what are ya doin' here this early?"

"I just got some incredibly good news from Colonel Sink. Bill, I still can't believe it! Maybe you should sit down first." Guarnere found an empty table and pulled out a chair for Leigh to be seated. He took his seat on the opposite side of the table,

"There, we're both sittin' down. What's goin' on, Baby?"

"I was working and Colonel Sink stopped by my office. He said that he'd just spoken with a higher up from the USO. They have been working with the Andrews Sisters back in the states. Three USO women from all over the country have performed with them.

An agent who works for the Andrews Sisters was in the audience when we did the show at The Stage Door Canteen in London. The agent told the Andrews Sisters about me.

Bill, the Andrews Sisters want me to appear with them in a few concerts in Paris! Can you believe it? Colonel Sink let me call my folks and your folks from his office to tell them the good news." Guarnere looked surprised.

"Holy God, Leigh! That's (he pronounced the word as 'dat's') goddamned great news! Think of it, my baby performin' wit' my favorite singin' group! I bet Ma was real excited an' happy." He walked over to Leigh's side of the table, picked her up and carried her in his arms to the area of the pub where the Easy Company men were sitting. He told them in a very loud and excited voice,

"Fellas, Leigh's appearin' wit' the Andrews Sisters in Paris!" Buck Compton was startled and he hit the wall instead of the target with the dart he threw.

"Guarnere, that had better be the truth, or I'm using your ass for a dart board." Leigh told him,

"Buck, it's the truth. Colonel Sink just told me. He gave me the rest of the day off to celebrate."

The Easy Company men congratulated Leigh. Luz asked her,

"Can you get Patti Andrews' telephone number for me? Seriously, though, congratulations, Leigh. You're one hell of a good singer." Spencer replied,

"Thanks, George. I already know her telephone number, it's

Pennsylvania 6-5000." Bill and the men laughed at her response of quoting the title from a popular song.

Andrew Herriott walked over to where Bill was standing with Leigh in his arms.

"Congratulations, Miss Spencer. I couldn't help but overhear the good news. Please accept my offer of a modest dinner and drinks for you and your fellow. It's on the house. I'm serving shepherd's pie this evening." Spencer thanked him. She told Bill,

"I love to be in your arms, Honey, but would you please put me back on my feet?" Guarnere chuckled and gently put her back on the floor in a standing position,

"Sorry about that, Sweetheart. I got excited hearin' the good news ya told me."

"No need to apologize, Bill. It's OK. Would you like to stay for dinner?"

"Sure, Baby." He asked Andrew,

"What kind o' pie are ya talkin' about, Sir?"

"It's mashed potatoes served over beef and vegetables in gravy."

Bill thought the shepherd's pie sounded good. He and Leigh went back to their table and had dinner with a glass each of dark beer. As they ate, Spencer told Guarnere,

"Never in my wildest dreams did I think that I would be selected to perform with the top singing group in the states. When I told your mom the good news, I think Colonel Sink heard her shout,

' Oh my God, Sweetie, that's wonderful news!'"

Bill laughed,

"When Ma gets excited about somethin', she can get pretty loud. I'm the same way, an' I probably got that from her." Leigh grinned.

"I almost forgot to tell you, Colonel Sink gave me a bottle of champagne to take home. It's chilling in the refrigerator as I speak. It's another bottle of Moet et Chandon," Spencer lowered her voice so only Bill could hear her,

"That was the brand of champagne we had on a very special night at Fort Benning, the happiest night of my life.

"Sweetheart, I'll never forget that night." Leigh was quiet for a moment.

"This may sound crazy, especially since I got the performing gig of a lifetime. I appreciate it, don't get me wrong. If it ever came down to choosing between a singing career or being with you, I wouldn't have to think very long about it.

Bill, nothing could make me happier than I was that night at Fort Benning when you told me that you love me. When these shows take place, you will probably be deployed somewhere.

If I'm performing during a time when you get a pass or a leave, we can't be together. Honey, what I'm trying to say is that I don't want you to think that the shows are more important to me than you are." Bill reached across the small table to take Leigh's hand. He reassured her,

"Baby, I don't have a problem wit' you doin' those shows. Hell, I'm proud of ya! You're talented an' you earned the chance to sing wit' the Andrews Sisters.

I wouldn't be much of a man if I made ya quit doin' what ya love. Honey, I'm OK wit' it, honestly. Don't you worry about havin' to choose me or the singin'. I love you, Leigh. You're my everything."

"Thanks for putting my mind at ease. I used to think that performing was top priority and that I loved singing more than anything. That changed when I fell in love with you. Bill, you're my everything and I love you, too."

A half hour later, when they finished eating, Guarnere asked Leigh,

"How 'bout we go back to your place an' celebrate wit' that champagne?"

"I like the way you think." They exited the pub. Bill had his arm around her shoulders. He leaned in close to whisper in her ear,

"Baby, you look hot as hell in those shorts. Wearin' your blouse like that does somethin' to me, too, ya little fireball."

"Thanks, Honey." She whispered,

"Is that so? Show me how much these clothes get you worked up." Leigh expected him to show her once they returned to the house she shared with Melissa.

Instead, Bill took her hand. They headed down the cobblestone street as he scanned the area, looking for a good spot that would provide some privacy.

Guarnere saw a side street with a narrow alley between some houses. He could see that it was a dead end of sorts and covered in the shade provided by a few trees that were at each side of the alley.

They walked to the end of the narrow space. Spencer put her purse beside her feet. She started to lean against the brick wall of the house.

"Let me stand there, Sweetheart. I don't want ya to get your skin scraped by the bricks," Guarnere leaned against the wall, standing with his feet parted enough to allow Leigh to stand in the space between his feet.

"Here's what the clothes an' the woman that's wearin' 'em does to me."

Bill pulled Spencer close to him, giving her a deep kiss. She felt as if Guarnere was sucking the oxygen out of her lungs with the intensity and the raw passion of the kiss.

He held Leigh's ass and his tongue licked against her tongue. She moaned into Bill's mouth as he sucked the tip of her tongue into his mouth.

Spencer ran her fingers through Bill's hair, then Leigh tenderly cupped his face in her hands as she captured the tip of his tongue in her mouth, sucking on it. She felt his cock becoming hard and pressing against her.

Guarnere nipped at her earlobe before sending trails of kisses down her neck. He stopped to gently suck on the soft skin at the junction of her neck and collarbone. Spencer replied in a breathy voice,

"Oh, Bill..." She felt herself becoming wet.

He untied and unbuttoned her blouse enough to get one hand inside it. Bill cupped her breast through her bra. He pushed her blouse off of her shoulders enough to allow him access to her bra straps. He pushed the straps off of her shoulders until her breasts were exposed.

Guarnere's tongue and lips worked on one nipple, then the other. He stepped back to admire the sight of her nipples jutting out before lowering his mouth and once again sucking her nipples. Bill loved the soft sounds of passion that Leigh made.

She ran her fingers through Bill's hair, cradling his head close to her breasts. Leigh shuddered,

"You're making me come!" He unbuttoned her shorts enough to allow his hand to reach into her panties. Guarnere grinned as his fingers encountered the unmistakable evidence of her arousal.

Bill unbuttoned her shorts and rolled her silk panties down until he saw the dark brown curls between her legs. He rubbed Spencer's clit and she shuddered a few minutes later as she came again. Guarnere told her in a husky voice,

"You're a fuckin' goddess, Baby. Christ, I wish I could strip those shorts an' panties off so I could kneel down an' taste you. Goddamn, Leigh, your...I better not say it. That ain't showin' respect for the angel I love. You're so beautiful an' perfect down there."

Leigh began to gently squeeze and stroke Bill's cock through his uniform trousers. Guarnere groaned, telling her in a lower pitched whisper as he looked into her eyes,

" I could fuck ya right where you're standin', right here, out in the open." Spencer trembled against Bill as she became more inflamed by his words. She told him in a passion filled voice,

"I'd let you do it, right here. Take me home, Bill!"

Guarnere quickly got her panties back in place and her shorts buttoned up. He pulled up her bra straps and buttoned Leigh's blouse. She picked up her purse.

Bill rearranged himself inside his trousers and pulled his uniform shirt out to hide evidence of his arousal. He picked up Spencer, carrying her in his arms.

Leigh put her arms around Bill's neck, holding onto him as he quickly covered the short distance between the side street and her house. Neither of them cared if they attracted attention. Both Bill and Leigh were concentrating on matters of a more pressing nature.

Spencer had the house key in her hand as Guarnere got her to the front door. He held her in his arms as she opened the door. Bill kicked the door the rest of the way open.

Guarnere put Leigh back on her feet long enough to turn on the lights and lock the front door. He grabbed her purse, handing it to Spencer as he said one word,

"Upstairs." Bill picked her up and hurried up the stairs to Leigh's bedroom. He opened the door and kicked it open the rest of the way so they could enter. Guarnere placed Spencer in the middle of the bed.

Leigh pulled the bedspread and top sheet from the bed, pushing the pillows to the floor. Guarnere shut the door and began to removed his boots. Spencer quickly disrobed, letting her clothes fall on the floor beside the bed. She reclined in the middle of the bed, propped up on her elbows.

Bill nearly tore off his clothes, leaving them where they fell. He walked over to stand beside the bedside table and Spencer. As he opened the drawer and got a condom out of the cardboard pack, Leigh sat up and encircled his cock with her fingers, stroking up and down.

She lapped up a few beads of pre-come. Bill's knees felt weak.He rolled on the condom, pinching the tip to remove air. In one fast move, he was on the bed and kneeling in front of Spencer.

Guarnere entered Leigh. He tried to move slowly inside her, to give Spencer as much pleasure as possible. Leigh met him stroke for stroke. She had her arms around his shoulders.

He increased his thrusting and was surprised to feel her fingernails scratching his back. Bill thought it was hotter than the fires of hell. Guarnere suddenly stopped moving, despite the fact that he was enjoying himself tremendously. Leigh asked,

"Why are you stopping?"

"What do ya want, Baby? What can I do for my angel?" Spencer nearly shouted in a husky sounding voice,

"Fuck me!"

"Bill started to thrust harder and faster. Leigh put her hands on his ass, pulling him into her. Spencer circled her hips and she started to come, crying out,

"Hell, yes! So damned good!" Leigh held onto Bill as her body trembled. Guarnere felt her contracting around his cock. His thrusting became deeper, losing rhythm before he came, groaning and calling out,

"Fuck, yes!"

Bill held Leigh close to him,telling her,

"You are one hell of a woman, Leigh. Let me get rid of this thing an' then we can snuggle up." Bill withdrew himself from Spencer, sat up and removed the condom, placing it in the wicker trash basket by the bed.

As Guarnere got the top sheet and pillows, Leigh saw the scratches she put on his back. Bill put the pillows on the bed and put the sheet over both of them. Spencer said,

"Oh, Honey! I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to hurt you." Guarnere stretched out on the bed, putting his arms around Spencer, pulling her close to him.

"You didn't hurt me, Sweetheart." Bill ran his fingers through Leigh's hair.

"You're perfect, Baby. No other woman has ever gotten me worked up as much as you, an' no other woman has ever made me come as hard as you do. 'course I've never loved a woman as much as I love you. I'm honored that you're my girl."

"I'm honored you chose me to be your girl and I love you madly. What we just did is the most erotic thing that's ever happened to me. Remind me to wear shorts more often." Guarnere chuckled at her comment, replying,

"You better believe I'll remind ya to wear those shorts again." After a brief nap, Guarnere and Spencer had a bath, but not together since the bathtub would accommodate one person. After they got dressed, Bill and Leigh went downstairs to cuddle on the couch and listen to the radio.

Guarnere lit a cigarette, taking a drag from it, exhaling the smoke. Spencer put her head on his shoulder as she snuggled close to Bill.

"Baby, I'll get the champagne an' the glasses. You don't have to do nothin' except have a few drinks an' celebrate." He put his cigarette in the ashtray and went into the kitchen. Bill got two wine glasses and the bottle of champagne.

Guarnere brought the glasses and bottle into the living room, placing everything on the coffee table. He removed the foil wrap and the cork from the bottle and poured half a glass of champagne for Leigh and a half glass of champagne for himself. Bill raised his glass, saying,

"Here's a toast to the talented woman I love. Congratulations, Baby, I'm so proud of ya!" Spencer raised her glass and gently touched the wine glass held by Bill.

"Thanks, Honey. I'm still stunned that I will be performing with the Andrews Sisters. A few year ago, I was in my dorm room listening to them sing on the radio and I was singing along with the music." Spencer suddenly realized that she didn't tell Guarnere all of the good news.

"Bill, I can't believe I forgot to tell you an important detail about one of the shows. The Armed Forces Radio network is somehow sending that broadcast to all of the major radio stations stateside the day after the show."

"Holy God, Baby, that's wonderful! Our folks can hear ya on the radio. Hell, most of the country will hear ya singin' on the radio. Honey, you're gonna be a singin' star, just like Judy Garland and Dinah Shore.

Before ya tell me it ain't that big a deal, think about this, Leigh. It could be your big break to really make it as a singer. How many times have ya heard people sayin' that you could be a singer on the radio? I'm excited for ya!"

"Bill, the other women who sang with the Andrews Sisters were also on the radio. I'm excited about this, too, but if I think about it too much I'm afraid I'll get nervous when the time comes to do the shows. Honey, I appreciate how much you support and believe in me. Do you really think that I can do a good job in those shows? I've never performed with famous people before." Bill tenderly cupped her face in his hands as he looked into her eyes.

"Sweetheart, I know you're gonna do just fine. I'd be nervous to perform wit' the Andrews Sisters. Ain't nothin' wrong wit' feelin' a little nervous. Don't let your nerves take over. Use it to make yourself work harder to do your best job of singin' that you've done in your life.

Leigh, I know you can do this. That agent knows ya can do it, too or he would've picked somebody else. You have my support one hundred percent, Baby. If I'm able to go to those shows, you better believe that I'll be in the front row to hear my angel singin'."

"Thanks for the good advice, Honey. I'm truly blessed to have you in my life." Bill tenderly kissed Leigh.

"Baby, I feel the same way about you. How about we drink some of this French stuff? Let's celebrate a little." He finished the cigarette and they enjoyed some champagne before going to bed.

@ethereal-jumpwings @wontyoutakeitback @lizziebitch33 @alluringmoonlightbabe @f1-and-shiz @stinkyrat09 @cagzzz107 @marycorleone @bookfansworld @bellewintersroe @lenabob @celie-voss @rogue-barnes-durin-main @brassknucklespeirsÀ

#bill guarnere #how-are-those-nuts-sarge #band of brothers #wild bill guarnere #band of brothers imagine #william guarnere #bill guarnere imagine #vintagelavenderskies #bill guarnere smut #etherealjumpwings #rogue-barnes-durin-main

[msmercury84]

"I Double Dare You," Chapter 12: Going Back to South Philadelphia

*Author's Note: Popi's is a restaurant that was a favorite of Wild Bill's. According to his granddaughter, Bill's favorite meal was spaghetti with one meatball. Augusta Guarnere's maiden name was DiSabato, according to information provided by FindAGrave.*

About a month before Bill and Leigh went back to visit Bill's family one more time before they were sent overseas, Guarnere wrote to his mother. He requested his grandmother's engagement ring. Although he hadn't officially asked Cal Spencer for Leigh's hand in marriage, Bill had a feeling that Mr. Spencer would give his blessing.

When Bill was four years old, his Grandmother ( the Italian word is Nonna) DiSabato specified in her will that she wanted Bill to have her engagement ring.

Usually, the eldest son in an Italian family got the engagement ring. The eldest son, Augustino, was in the Merchant Marines and had no need for the ring. Nonna DiSabato was quite taken with the baby of the family, so the ring went to him.

In his letter, Bill wanted his mother to ask his sister Teresa if the ring could be cleaned. She worked for a jewelry store in Philadelphia. He was hoping that the ring could look presentable. Made in Italy, it was 18 karat gold with a half carat diamond. The ring looked worse for the wear and the diamond was extremely dull looking.

Guarnere knew if the ring could be restored to its former beauty, it would be better than anything he could afford to buy. He wanted Leigh to have a beautiful engagement ring.

When Augusta got the letter, she was ecstatic to learn that Leigh would be her future daughter-in-law. She shed a few tears that her baby was planning to get married, but she adored Leigh and knew she would be a devoted wife.

Joseph Guarnere and Bill's sisters were as happy as Augusta when they heard about Bill's intention to ask Leigh to marry him. He asked that each family member say nothing about his plan to Leigh. Guarnere wanted her to be surprised when the time was right to propose.l

Teresa immediately wrote to Bill:

Dear Billy Baby,

When I looked at Nonna's ring, it looked pretty bad. The gold looked dull and there wasn't a hint of a sparkle in the diamond. My boss, Mr. Chapman, told me he would try a new jewelry cleaner in a small cleaning machine that we have at work.

He told me don't get my hopes up, because of the effects of time and something called oxidation. Mr. Chapman wanted to soak the ring in the cleaner overnight before he put it in the machine with new cleaning stuff.

Billy, it was nothing short of a miracle! When he took the ring out of the cleaner it looked brand new! Who knew that old ring was so gorgeous?

It didn't cost much for the cleaning and I took care of it. That's the least I can do for you and your sweet girl. Mr. Chapman insisted on giving me a new, blue velvet box for the ring.

Love Ya,

Teresa

Guarnere wrote to his sister, thanking her for getting the ring cleaned and he asked her to thank her boss for him. By this time, Bill and Leigh were stationed in North Carolina. Prior to that, the 506th had briefly moved to Tennessee for more training. Spencer was elated to learn that the USO was planning a big show in Philadelphia.

Bill decided to plan their visit for the weekend of the show. Both he and Spencer had their leaves approved by Colonel Sink in advance of their trip. Leigh's parents made plans to book a hotel room and take a train so they could see their daughter onstage.

The USO reserved seats for the Guarnere family, Bill and the Spencers. Rehearsal took place in the theater. The officials wanted Leigh to perform "Stuff Like That There" and she was part of a trio singing "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy." She was also going to play a boogie woogie number while two dancers performed.

Leigh was determined to do her best, since she had special guests in the audience. She didn't tell Bill and his family about playing the piano. Spencer wanted to surprise them.

When Bill told his mother about the USO reserving seats for him and his family, Augusta was excited to see the show. She told him in a letter,

"Billy, it makes things even more exciting to know that I'm seeing my future daughter in law performing. Your pop and I couldn't be happier knowing that you found a good, sweet girl and we will be glad to welcome her into the family when the time comes.

Meeting her folks will be great, too. Don't worry, Son, I won't say anything to them about you asking for your Nonna's ring. I know that you would want Mr. Spencer's blessings before you did anything else. Going with what Mrs. Spencer says in telephone calls, they are crazy about you. It makes me proud when she talks about what a fine gentleman you are."

The day of the long train trip to Philadelphia arrived. Once again, Spencer and Guarnere took the midnight train. While they passed time talking, Leigh told Bill,

"The USO officials are looking for a good tailor to sew and repair the costumes. I immediately thought of your dad. They are very interested in hiring him."

"That ( he pronounced the word as 'dat') would be a blessin', Baby. Pop is a proud man, but he needs more money. This job would be perfect for him." Spencer thought of a way to mention the job and allow Mr. Guarnere to retain his dignity. She told Bill and he agreed that her idea sounded good. Guarnere tenderly kissed her, saying,

"That's a thoughtful thing you're doin', Honey. I appreciate ya bein' so considerate about Pop." Spencer smiled and thanked him. Several hours later, when they exited the cab and walked up to the front door, Augusta hugged them both, saying,

"It's great to see you two again! Come on in, I made pizzelles and coffee." Leigh went into the living room to sit and chat with Teresa and Augusta. She helped herself to a cup of fresh coffee and two pizzelles. Mrs Guarnere told her,

"You're learnin', Sweetie. I'm glad ya feel comfortable enough to help yourself an' not wait for me to say anything."

"Mrs. Guarnere, I couldn't feel more welcome and I appreciate you treating me like family." Leigh didn't notice Augusta giving a knowing look and a wink to Teresa when she mentioned being treated like family.

That night, everyone enjoyed a delicious supper of ravioli stuffed with cheese, beef, and Italian sausage. They also had the Guarnere family's favorite side dish Broccoli Rabe, red wine, coffee and pizzelles. Leigh asked Joseph,

"Mr. Guarnere, I hate to impose, but may I ask a favor of you?" Bill's father told her,

"Yes." She said,

"Sir, I need your help. The USO desperately needs a good tailor to make and repair costumes. Would you be willing to help? I told the officials that I know a very good tailor.

They are offering to pay a rate based on your experience and they will furnish everything you need. If you decide to take the job, once you complete the work, they will pay for shipping. All you have to do is take the parcel to the train station.

This will be demanding in the fact that it will involve a great deal of your time. You don't have to answer right now, you can think about it for a few days." Augusta had a brilliant smile on her face as she translated Spencer's request for her husband. He smiled, telling Leigh,

"Of course, I want to help you." He paused to give the remainder of his message to Augusta. She told Leigh,

"Joseph says that he would be proud to help the USO. This country took him in and he wants to return the favor. He thanks the officials in advance for providing money for his services." Spencer said,

"I don't know many Italian words, but I can say, grazzi, Signore Guarnere." The elder Guarnere grinned at her reply, saying,

"You are welcome, Leigh. You're a good girl to make this offer."

As Spencer was helping Augusta in the kitchen with the dishes, she hugged Leigh, saying,

"What you done for us is appreciated more than you know. Sweetie, the way you done it was perfect. You were extra sweet to take Joseph's feelins into consideration. Billy is right, you are an angel." Spencer answered,

"I'm glad I could help, Mrs. Guarnere. It's the very least I can do for the parents who raised the very special man I love. From the first time I saw Bill until now, he's been a gentleman who is very considerate and thoughtful. Thank you and please thank Mr. Guarnere for bringing him up the way both of you did." Augusta smiled and thanked Spencer, remarking,

"Your folks done a wonderful job with you, too, Leigh. They brought up a real lady." Spencer thanked her. They talked as they finished washing the dishes and cleaning the kitchen. Leigh told Augusta,

"By the way, supper was delicious! If it's OK, I'd like to get that recipe and the recipes for some of Bill's favorite dishes. If we're shipped to the same location overseas, I might be able to cook for him sometime." Mrs. Guarnere promised to send her the recipes. She told Leigh,

"I want to thank your mother and grand pop for sendin' more of that delicious beef."

"We're glad to share. As I said before, this is what country people do for friends and family."

The next day, which was the day before the show, Louise called Mrs. Guarnere. By this time, they called each other by their first names and they were friends. When she learned that Leigh was rehearsing, she told Bill's mother,

"Augusta, I might as well tell you what I was going to ask Leigh to tell you. Cal wants to take everyone to dinner before the show. Just pick your favorite restaurant and we'll take care of it.

We couldn't have done this without Leigh sending some money home. Cal is proud. Like a lot of people nowadays, things are kind of tight where extra money is concerned. It means a lot to him to be able to take friends to supper." Augusta told her,

"It's the same way wit' us, Louise. While I've got ya on the phone, let me tell ya about the sweet thing your daughter done for us." Guarnere told her how Leigh mentioned the job for Joseph in a way to preserve his dignity. Louise was delighted to hear how her daughter handled the situation. She said,

"I'm proud of Leigh. We tried our best to bring her up right. You certainly did an excellent job with Bill. We've never met a more polite and considerate gentleman.

Augusta, we're so happy that Leigh met your son." They discussed the situation concerning Grayson. Mrs. Guarnere told her,

"When Billy told me what that animal done to her, it almost made me sick. Thank God she got away from him!" Louise agreed, replying,

"When Leigh and Bill got together, it was a gift from God. I truly believe that he sent the best young man into her life that he could find." Mrs. Guarnere thanked Louise. They were eager to finally meet each other and they looked forward to seeing the USO show.

While Leigh rehearsed, Bill got the ring from his mother. He was pleased with the way the ring cleaned up and he hugged his sister, saying,

"Teresa, it's thanks to you that my angel will have a ring that's beautiful. Thanks for that velvet box, too. That looks really classy." Teresa told her brother that she was glad to help.

Guarnere looked at the clock and realized that Leigh would soon finish rehearsing. She was taking the bus back to South Philadelphia. Bill wanted to walk her home from the bus stop. He went upstairs to his room and he put the ring in its box, carefully storing it in his duffel bag.

Bill told his mother and sister that he was walking to the bus stop and he left the house. Guarnere didn't have to wait very long. The bus was on time. Leigh and Bill walked hand in hand to the Guarneres' house

The next day, Cal and Louise Spencer arrived on the 2 p.m. train. They checked into the hotel and got settled in. Mrs. Spencer called Augusta to let her know that they were in Philadelphia. Mrs. Guarnere promptly invited them to come over for coffee and pizzelles.

Leigh spent the morning rehearsing. Bill went to the neighborhood florist's shop and ordered a corsage of red Sweetheart Roses for Leigh. Guarnere gave the address of the theater and the time he wanted the flowers to be delivered. He also gave Leigh's name for the delivery worker. Bill wrote on the card,

"Baby, you're gonna knock 'em dead tonight. All my love, Bill."

When he walked home from the bus stop with Leigh, Guarnere was surprised to see the Spencers. Leigh walked into the living room, hugging her parents. Cal asked Leigh if she was ready for the show. She said,

"Yes, Dad, I'm as ready as I will ever be. We've rehearsed so much that I'm surprised I haven't been singing in my sleep." Bill laughed, replying,

"That would explain the noise I heard comin' from Teresa's room." Teresa told Leigh,

"You're very quiet, unlike my baby brother who snores so loud that the neighbors can hear him."

"I don't snore. You're hearin' things, Teresa." The Spencers, Leigh, Augusta and Joseph laughed at the good natured banter between the brother and sister. Louise asked her daughter,

"Leigh, how many songs are you performing tonight?"

"I'm doing two songs, Mom. Most of rehearsal has centered around the dancing that I'm doing with two other singers. We're doing an Andrews Sisters' song. The first song I'm singing is the one that I did at the USO Competition." Bill said,

"Mr. and Mrs. Spencer, you're in for a treat. Leigh dances and sings better than those dames in the movies." Spencer thanked Guarnere for his compliment.

When Leigh sang at the competition, she had the whole audience on their feet, clappin' along wit' the music." Both Cal and Louise smiled. Mrs. Spencer told him,

"We're both looking forward to the show tonight, Bill. Leigh has always been interested in music." The group exchanged small talk for awhile. Cal Spencer made his offer to take everyone to dinner. After a brief discussion, Spencer called two taxis to take everyone to a popular Italian restaurant, Popi's.

Leigh excused herself to change her clothes before they went to dinner. She wore a short sleeved sapphire blue dress. Mrs. Guarnere wore a dark red dress and Teresa wore a black dress with red rosebuds printed on the material. Mr. Guarnere wore a charcoal gray suit he had made for himself.

Cal wore a dark blue suit, a white shirt and a blue tie. Louise wore a cranberry red long sleeved dress and black pumps.

When they were seated at the restaurant, Cal and Louise selected Chicken Alfredo. Teresa Guarnere had Linguini with Clams, Bill had his favorite dish, spaghetti with one meatball, his parents selected Pasta Primavera and Leigh chose Spaghetti Bolognaise.

The group enjoyed a few glasses of wine as they enjoyed their meals. They enjoyed each other's company as they talked and shared family stories. Bill and his mother enjoyed after dinner cigarettes.

Cal excused himself from the group to take his daughter in a taxi to the theater. Performers had to arrive 45 minutes before the show began. Once Leigh was dropped off, Mr. Spencer went back to take the rest of the group back to the Guarneres' home in two cabs.

Spencer had just finished putting on her USO uniform, the same one she wore at the competition, when a USO official delivered a small white box.

She thanked the official and took the box to her dressing table. Leigh smiled when she saw a corsage of three red Sweetheart Roses and the enclosed card with Bill's message. Spencer carefully pinned the corsage to her left lapel.

Leigh touched up her makeup and she applied red lipstick that matched her nail polish. She brushed her hair and applied hair spray. Now, all she needed to do was wait for her turn onstage.

Everyone arrived by taxis that brought them to the theater. Mr. and Mrs. Spencer sat in the front row with Bill. The Guarnere family sat in the second row. Julia and Maria had to attend parent teacher conferences at their children's schools, so they were unable to go to dinner. They were running late, but they managed to get seated before the show started.

About fifteen minutes into the show, the emcee said,

"Here's Leigh Spencer singing "Stuff Like That There."

She walked onstage confidently and took her place at the microphone. By the middle of the number, everyone in the audience was standing up, clapping their hands in time with the music.

Leigh singled Bill out in the audience, the same way she did in the competition when she sang,

"I used to think romance was bunk.

A double mickey for the icky.

But all at once my heart was sunk.

And Baby, You (she pointed at Bill and winked) you've done it."

Guarnere loved Leigh acknowledging him from the stage. He winked at her as an enormous smile appeared on his face. Julia and Maria liked Spencer including their baby brother in her song.

Julia whispered to Maria,

"Will ya look at that smile! Our Billy Baby is crazy in love wit' Leigh. Looks like we'll have her for a sister in law. She'll be a good wife for Billy Baby an' she's really sweet." Maria agreed with her sister.

Cal and Louise had beaming smiles that mirrored Bill's smile as they were amazed by their daughter's performance. The Guarnere family couldn't take their eyes off of Leigh.

Augusta and her daughters talked to one another, shouting to be heard above the music and the crowd. Julia told Maria,

"Holy Mother of God, she's a good singer and a good dancer!" Maria said,

"You got that right!" Mrs. Guarnere told Teresa,

"She's just like a star in one of those musicals. Leigh would give Judy Garland a run for her money!" Teresa replied,

"You're right, Ma. Look at Billy Baby, he's so proud of Leigh that he's about to bust!" Augusta said,

"He's very much in love wit' her and Billy has a right to be proud." Although Joseph didn't understand all of the lyrics, he enjoyed Leigh's singing and dancing.

Spencer received a standing ovation and she had to do two curtain calls before the show could progress. Augusta leaned over Bill before the next act came on to tell Mrs. Spencer,

"You have a very talented daughter, Louise. She done a great job singin' and dancin'." Mrs. Spencer thanked Augusta. Bill grinned, telling his mother,

"Just like I said, Ma. Leigh is the best singer in the whole damned bunch." He immediately apologized to Louise, who told him she wasn't offended.

Ten minutes later, Leigh was onstage again. She sat down at a nine foot concert grand piano. A husband and wife dancing duo stood upstage.

Spencer began to play an intricate boogie woogie arrangement. The man wore a black Zoot Suit with white pinstripes and his wife wore a bright red dress and open toed red pumps.

They moved effortlessly doing a very complicated version of the jitterbug. The audience clapped along with the music as the dancers seemed to float across the stage, their feet nearly moving in a blur.

Bill was extremely surprised to learn that Leigh could play the piano. She had never mentioned that she played a musical instrument. Augusta and her daughters and Joseph were equally surprised to learn of Spencer's talent on the piano.

The Spencers knew that their daughter played the piano, having paid for several years of lessons. They were surprised that someone was able to convince her to play onstage.

Leigh honestly believed that she was a mediocre pianist at best, despite what people had told her over the years. She thought that no one else was onstage during rehearsals earlier in the week and she sat down to play the piano.

The USO officials asked her to fill in for the pianist who was supposed to play for the dancers. The other pianist was at home suffering from an intestinal virus. Spencer quickly learned the boogie woogie piece. She and the dancers received prolonged applause for the number.

Toward the end of the show, one USO singer in a white uniform and another singer in a red uniform joined Leigh onstage to perform the hit song recorded by the Andrews Sisters, "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy."

The women had worked all week on the tight harmony and the dance steps that went with the song. They sounded exactly like the world famous trio and their dancing was flawless. Spencer was given the solo in the middle of the song, normally performed by Patty Andrews.

Once again, the audience gave a standing ovation. Bill was nearly beside himself. He was so proud of Leigh that he shouted,

"That's my girl!" Julia, Maria and Teresa decided not to tease their baby bother about his outburst. They knew he was deeply in love with Leigh. Mr.and Mrs. Spencer smiled when they heard Bill. They wanted to shout out the same statement, but both Cal and Louise were very reserved.

After the show, the Guarneres and the Spencers waited for Leigh before taking the taxis back to the Guarneres' house. Augusta and her daughters took turns hugging Spencer and complimenting her. Joseph hugged Leigh, saying,

"Good job, Leigh!" Both Maria's and Julia's husbands were there to take their wives home. The women told their husbands that they "missed one hell of a good show." Julia told her husband,

"Sal, honest to God, Billy's girl could be a big time singer someday. She dances an' she plays one hell of a boogie woogie piano!" Bill embraced Leigh, telling her,

"You were holdin' out on me, Sweetheart. I never knew ya could play the piano."

"I don't talk about it very much because I'm not that good." Guarnere looked shocked, replying,

"Baby, you made that thing talk! Ain't nothin' my angel can't do. You're super talented, Leigh." She thanked him for the compliments. The Spencers were very proud of their daughter and they also gave her performances rave reviews.

Before she left the cab to go into the Guarneres' house, Leigh hugged her parents and thanked them for coming to see the show. The elder Guarneres and Teresa were already in the house. Bill and Leigh walked hand in hand to the front door. As Guarnere held open the door, Leigh thanked him for the corsage. He gave her a tender kiss, saying,

"It's my pleasure, Honey. You were the best one in the show tonight." When Bill and Leigh got inside the house, Bill told his mother,

"Ma, it's a shame Henry didn't get to see the show. He would've loved hearin' Leigh playin' that piano." Guarnere explained to Spencer,

"Henry is crazy for boogie woogie music an' he loves it when somebody plays the piano. I'll have to write him an' tell him that my baby is a star in the USO. Maybe he'll get to see ya in concert sometime. Do ya know if they do shows in Africa? That's where he's goin'." Leigh told Bill that she wasn't sure if the USO performed in Africa. She added,

"I'd like to meet Henry. He sounds like a really nice guy." Bill, Teresa and the Guarneres told Spencer that Henry was sweet and caring. He was going to be a medic.

Augusta offered to preserve Leigh's corsage and Spencer thanked her, saying that she would like it very much if the corsage could be preserved as a memento.

The next day, Bill and Leigh boarded the train to North Carolina. Guarnere had his grandmother's engagement ring in its new velvet box. It was tucked into an inner pocket of his dress uniform. He was looking forward to proposing to Leigh when the time was right.

@lizziebitch33 @ethereal-jumpwings @celie-voss @wontyoutakeitback @cagzzz107 @stinkyrat09 @havaneselover08 @how-are-those-nuts-sarge @lenabob @alluringmoonlightbabe

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#bill guarnere #easy company #william guarnere #how-are-those-nuts-sarge #wild bill guarnere #band of brothers imagine #band of brothers #bill guarnere imagine #vintagelavenderskies #ethereal-jumpwings #ethereal jumpwings #mrsalwayswrite #rogue-barnes-durin-main #Youtube

[msmercury84]

"I Double Dare You" Chapter 9: After the Show

*In this chapter, George Luz has a memorable experience with false eyelashes.* Leigh quickly removed the borrowed blue uniform dress, placing it on a hanger in the communal dressing room. She carefully unpinned the corsage and set it on the counter.

Spencer got her blue dress with the three quarter length sleeves off of the hanger and unzipped it enough to get it over her head. She finished zipping up the dress and re-pinned the corsage to the dress. Leigh picked up her purse, taking out her compact, lipstick and a hairbrush. She touched up her makeup and brushed her hair, putting the items back into her purse.

Leigh got her coat that matched her dress from the hanger, putting it on, taking care to not crush the corsage or knock it askew. Taking the backstage shortcut to the auditorium, she saw that Melissa and Bull had already left for the NCO Club.

Bill approached Leigh, embracing her.

"Ready to go, Baby?" They held hands and walked out of the auditorium, heading for the NCO club. Ten minutes later, they were outside the club. Guarnere held open the door for Leigh. After she entered, they located the Easy Company group who had attended the show. A few beers had been consumed by the group, but they were more intent on talking than drinking.

Bill found an empty chair and sat down, gently pulling Spencer onto his lap, wrapping his arms around her. He noticed that Leigh still had her coat on and asked her,

"Do you want to take your coat off, Sweetheart? "

"Yes." She stood up to take off her coat. Then she returned to Bill's lap. Melissa took the coat for her, draping it over the back of her chair. Leigh thanked Melissa. Adams told Guarnere,

"George is trying to find a chair for Leigh." Bill said, "Thanks, Melissa. He don't need to hurry. I enjoy havin' my beautiful girl on my lap."

Luz returned, telling Bill,

"Sorry, but I can't find a chair." He grinned, adding,

"You don't look too inconvenienced."

George had a gleam of mischief in his eyes. He approached Bull asking him,

"Is it OK if I borrow your girl? I need her help with something. I want to do some impressions. " Randleman had no problem with Melissa helping Luz. She got up from the table. George kept his voice low so the others wouldn't hear him, asking Adams,

"Do you have any of those fake eyelashes with you? I just had a killer idea for an impression." Adams looked inside her purse, finding the small box that contained the eyelashes and the small tube of adhesive that she used in the show. Melissa told Luz that the eyelashes were in her purse.

She and Luz walked to the store room behind the bar. Once inside the room, George asked Adams,

"How do I put these things on?" Melissa explained,

"Just put a little drop of the stuff in the tube on the eyelashes and put them over your eyelashes on your upper eyelids. Remember, just a little bit of adhesive or you will have them on for a long time."

Luz thanked her and Adams exited the room, walking back to the group at the table. She spied an unused chair and picked it up, taking it back for Leigh if she wanted it. Adams rejoined her friends, setting the chair beside Bill. She told everyone,

"George is getting ready to do some kind of impression for us. I don't know what he has in mind." Adams walked around the table and took her seat beside Bull. Leigh was content to remain on Guarnere's lap.

Meanwhile, Luz was in the process of applying the false eyelashes. More adhesive came out of the tube than he expected, but he easily applied them over the upper eyelashes of his left eye. He squeezed the tube to put adhesive on the other eyelashes. This time, a larger amount of adhesive came out. He thought,

"What the hell, I won't have 'em on that long," placing the remaining false eyelash over the upper eyelashes of his right eye. They held in place, so George left the store room, closing the door behind him.

As he walked to the table occupied by his friends, Luz tried to not look up or make eye contact with anyone. He soon reached the table, telling everyone as he kept his back to his small audience,

"For your viewing and listening pleasure, here are two female singers." George turned around and laughter rippled through his appreciative audience when they saw his long eyelashes. Bill laughed loudly, telling Luz,

"Jesus Christ! The things ya see when ya ain't got a gun."

George clasped his hands in front of him, delivering a flawless impersonation of Leigh.

"I was alone on a shelf, in a world by myself. Oh, where could my Prince Charming be?"

His audience's laughter was loud with Spencer laughing the loudest. She told Luz,

"You're really good at this ." He grinned and prepared for his next impression, placing one leg on the empty chair, bending his knee and posing in the manner of Marlena Dietrich as he delivered another flawless impression, singing,

"Falling in love again, never wanted to. What am I to do, can't help it."

His latest effort was met with more laughter and applause. Suddenly, the men stood at attention as Colonel Sink entered the club. He was carrying a wooden crate.

George fervently hoped that Sink would not notice his long eyelashes. He, Melissa and Leigh stood at attention.

Sink placed the crate on the table, telling them,

"At ease, people. This isn't a formal visit. I thought you all might enjoy this to help celebrate our USO women's new jobs. " He opened the crate, taking out several bottles of champagne, placing them on the table. He added,

"The bartender has been storing this for me, it's the good stuff, Moet et Chandon. I had been saving this for the end of the war, but it looks as if we're in it for the long haul. Might as well put it to good use. I figure two bottles per couple and one for the rest of the men will work just fine."

Melissa told him,

"That's a generous gift for us, Sir. Thanks so much! Would you like to have a few glasses of this fancy stuff with us?"

"Thank you, Miss Adams, but I'm ready to call it a night. You and Miss Spencer did the 506th proud this evening. " The others thanked the colonel. As he departed the club, Sink thought that he was more tired than he realized because he could have sworn that George Luz had long eyelashes like a woman.

Luz tried to remove the false eyelashes and was distressed when he realized that they were firmly attached. He shouted,

" Melissa, help me! These goddamned things won't come off!"

"George, if you used too much adhesive, there's nothin' I can do. " Luz replied as he panicked,

"Don't tell me that! There's gotta be a way to get these sons of bitches removed!"

Luz's buddies weren't the least bit sympathetic with his plight. They laughed loudly as they realized that the false eyelashes seemed destined to remain a part of him. Bill told George,

"Keep 'em on. They might improve your looks. They sure as hell can't hurt how ya look." Randleman added with a smirk,

" They look pretty, but nothin' can help that ugly face." The normally quiet Shifty Powers couldn't resist commenting,

"Wonder what Captain Sobel will think of 'em on Monday mornin?"

Luz looked horrified as he pictured Sobel giving him a verbal dressing down for the ages. He tried ripping the lashes off, exclaiming,

"Oh, shit! That hurts!". More raucous laughter ensued. George begged Adams,

" Melissa, please, isn't there something that you can do?"

"Yes, but you owe me a new set of eyelashes. Let me look in my purse for somethin'." Luz would have promised her his first born child at this point, so he quickly agreed to buying the new eyelashes.

Adams produced a small set of scissors from a sewing kit that was in her purse. George was uncomfortable with the notion of scissors being used close to his eyes.

"Oh, hell no! Isn't there something else you can do?"

"This is it, if you want to get rid of those eyelashes, George. I will be very careful." This remark made Bill comment,

"Ain't that sweet? She's promisin' to be gentle wit' him." This prompted everyone, with the exception of Luz to laugh."

Melissa told George to sit in the chair and close his eyes and sit still. He complied with her, hoping that all went well. Adams told the rest of the group,

" Y'all don't say anything funny. I don't want my hand to shake."

Luz obeyed Melissa's directive and she carefully trimmed the eyelashes on his upper eyelids until they looked normal again. By the time she finished, the impromptu gathering had fizzled out. Bull and Melissa took their leave and their two champagne bottles. They intended to take a moonlight stroll.

George and Shifty took one bottle each, which left two bottles of Moet et Chandon for Bill and Leigh. Guarnere took one bottle of champagne and Leigh took the other. Spencer asked Bill,

"Would you like to continue celebrating with me at the house?"

Adams, Spencer and Sue Swart had the unexpected good fortune when the barracks were too full to accommodate them. Instead of the wasteful and foolish notion of building barracks for three women, the federal government and the Army decided to purchase a vacant house for a very cheap price. The army had the house moved to the camp property.

The small, white painted two story house was at the end of the lengthy walkway and isolated from the other buildings in the camp. Since it was Friday night, the men were due back for duty on Sunday evening. The WAACs would report for work on Monday morning.

Leigh lowered her voice, saying,

"Let me rephrase that question. Would you like to spend a couple of nights with me?"

"Are you sure you're ready for this, Baby? "

Keeping her voice down, Spencer assured him,

"I am more than ready."

"You're awfully quiet, Bill. Does this mean that you're not taking me up on my offer?" Guarnere quickly replied,

"Oh, hell no! I'm not turnin' ya down Sweetheart. You surprised me,that's all. I'm lookin' forward to it." He winked at Leigh.

"Do you mind if I go on ahead? I'd like to wash off this stage makeup and get clean sheets on the bed."

Bill, keeping his voice low, told her,

"Maybe ya should wait to change the sheets until after..." He grinned when Spencer blushed, telling her,

"Nothin' to be embarrassed about, Baby. Let me walk ya home. That's a long way for my angel to walk in the dark. After that, I need to stop by the barracks and get some stuff to take wit' me." Guarnere also planned on taking a quick shower and shaving before he went to stay with Leigh.

She agreed to Bill walking her home. He helped Spencer into her coat and opened the door of the club for her to exit first. They walked side by side.

"When you come over, would you please start a fire in the fireplace? It's kind of chilly and I just remembered that we're out of matches. Sue took her lighter with her."

"Sure, Sweetheart. "

"I've been thinking about inviting you over all week. "

" So, ya admit to plannin' on gettin' me alone? My ma warned me about women like you."

"I intend on plying you with French champagne and having my way with you." Bill raised his eyebrows, asking,

"That so?"

"You bet your ass! Seriously though," she whispered to Guarnere,

"I just thought that the time was right for us to make love, if it's OK with you. You know that I don't give myself to all sorts of men."

Bill stopped walking and put the champagne bottle down on the walkway. He put his arms around Leigh, replying,

"Sweetheart, I know this is somethin' ya take seriously. I'm honored that you want me to do this. It's more than OK wit' me." Bill wanted to tell Leigh that he was giving himself to her, too and confessing his love, but he wanted the privacy her house would offer. Guarnere also wanted a more romantic setting and he decided to wait until later that evening to tell Spencer that he was in love with her.

He tenderly kissed her. She put her bottle of champagne down and placed her arms around his neck. The kiss deepened quickly.

Bill picked up both champagne bottles and asked her to follow him. He led her to an area off of the walkway that was dark. They stood by one unit of barracks under construction. Bill stashed the Moet et Chandon inside the doorway of the building.

The couple resumed kissing. Bill's hands went from Leigh's waist to her bottom.

She unbuttoned Guarnere's jacket. Leigh's coat wasn't buttoned and she pressed herself against Bill. He responded by slipping his hands under her coat, gently kneading her ass through the fabric of her dress.

Spencer could feel his cock becoming hard and she ground her pelvis against him, prompting a groan from Guarnere. He broke the kiss and took Spencer by the hand, leading her into the building. Once inside, Bill leaned against the wall, pulling Leigh close to him.

He kissed Spencer's neck, gently sucking on the soft skin close to her earlobe. Guarnere's lips worked their way down Leigh's neck. When he reached the junction of her neck and collar bone, she moaned softly. Bill made a mental note to remember how much she enjoyed being kissed there. He whispered,

"So ya like that, Baby? Leigh answered in a breathy voice,

" Oh, yes!"

One of Bill's hands dipped under Spencer's dress, his fingers stroking up one stocking covered thigh until he caressed the soft skin at the top.

Leigh boldly freed one hand from holding Bill's back and gently stroked his cock through the fabric of his trousers. He groaned and said in a husky voice,

"Oh, Sweetheart!" Guarnere swore under his breath as he heard footsteps approaching on the walkway. He took Leigh's hand, leading her further into the darkened structure. When the footsteps disappeared further down the walkway, Bill turned away from Leigh to adjust himself in his trousers, making it less noticeable to anyone on the walkway.

"It's too risky for us to stay here. Besides, there's more privacy at your place an' it's warmer, too. " Leigh agreed and they took the champagne and continued on their way to the house.

When they arrived, Spencer unlocked the door. Bill pushed the door open, allowing her to walk in first. Leigh reached for the light switch to the right of the door to turn on the living room lights.

Guarnere kissed Spencer, telling her,

"Baby, let me get my ass back to the barracks an' I'll be back as fast as I can. " He set the champagne bottle on the floor and left the house. Spencer locked the door and went upstairs to take a bath.

She washed off the makeup taking care not to get her hair wet. Leigh had shaved her legs earlier, so she washed quickly, dried off and applied deodorant. Spencer ensured that the bathroom was spotless.

When she got dressed, Spencer refused to put on the girdle that she had to wear to work due to WAAC regulations. She wrapped a towel around herself and went to her room across the hall. Leigh had a few pairs of non regulation silk panties and she decided to wear the light pink silk.

She went back into the bathroom to finish dressing, placing the used towel and washcloth in a large hamper. Spencer brushed her teeth and got her mascara, eye pencil, her compact of powder and lipstick from her purse. Once the cosmetics were applied and put away, she brushed her hair. Before leaving the bathroom, Spencer applied a drop of Shalimar perfume behind each ear.

Leigh put her purse on the chest of drawers in her bedroom. She opened the closet door and pushed some dresses and WAAC uniforms on hangers to one side, making room for Bill's clothes.

She went downstairs and turned on the radio. The swing instrumental "Shiny Stockings" played as she walked into the kitchen. Spencer opened a cabinet under the sink, removing a small clean silver bucket. Next, she opened the refrigerator and got ice out of the small compartment at the top of the refrigerator. The ice went into the bucket. Leigh put the champagne in the bucket to chill and carried it into the living room, placing it on the coffee table in front of the couch.

Spencer took the remaining champagne bottle in the refrigerator. She went into the dining room adjoining the kitchen and took two wine glasses out of a cupboard. The dining room was open to the living room and she took the wine glasses, placing them on the coffee table. Everything was in its place and the furniture had been dusted. Leigh and her roommates made an effort to have a tidy home.

The hardwood floors in the living room and dining room were clean and polished. An overstuffed couch with peach colored flowers and green leaves on the fabric sat close to the stairs. Two overstuffed chairs of the same fabric were across from the coffee table that sat in front of the couch.

Behind the couch against the wall was a wooden cabinet Melissa inherited from her grandmother. The radio sat atop the cabinet. White organdy Priscilla curtains covered the downstairs windows and a small white organdy curtain covered the glass in the front door.

The kitchen was done in blue and yellow, with yellow and white tiles on the floor. The dining room contained a small maple cupboard holding plates and wine glasses that came from Leigh's parents' house. Sue's family donated the matching maple dining room table and chairs.

Meanwhile, Bill quickly showered, applied deodorant, brushed his teeth and shaved. He put on clean boxer shorts that came in a pack that he brought from his last trip home. Guarnere detested the Army skivvies and looked forward to a few days of wearing something comfortable. He put the other boxer shorts into his duffle bag along with his toiletries.

Bill opened his foot locker, taking out two cardboard packets of condoms. The Army provided enlisted men six condoms per month. Due to aluminum and other metals being rationed for the war effort, the tins normally used for selling and keeping condoms were scrapped in favor of cardboard. He planned on leaving one packet of condoms at Leigh's house. They would be on hand in case he forgot to bring a pack of condoms in the future.

Bill got a garment bag and put in two sets of uniform trousers and two uniform shirts. He added another necktie, looping it over a hanger.Guarnere grabbed two clean pairs of socks and placed them in the bottom of the garment bag before zipping it up.

He left the barracks and headed for the house shared by Leigh, Sue and Melissa.

@lizziebitch33 @alluringmoonlightbabe

#bill guarnere #william guarnere #easy company #how-are-those-nuts-sarge #band of brothers #wild bill guarnere #band of brothers imagine #valhallavalkyrie9 #mrsalwayswrite #bill guarnere imagine #vintagelavenderskies #bill guarnere smut #ethereal-jumpwings #ethereal jumpwings #rogue-barnes-durin-main

[msmercury84]

"I Double Dare You," Chapter 8: It's Showtime!

*Author's note: Yes, I shamelessly stole the dance routine, costume idea and song from Bette Middler in "For the Boys." When I saw this video clip, I knew that my OC had to do this song.*

Fort Benning, Georgia, January, 1943

The night of the show, Leigh was the last contestant scheduled to perform. She was in the dressing room ensuring that the seams in her stockings were straight. The USO gave each contestant a pair of stockings so every woman could look her best.

Since the beginning of the war, silk and nylon were taken off the market and primarily used for the war effort. Women had to make due with rayon, which proved be loose fitting compared to nylon or silk. Sometimes women purchased makeup to use on their legs to give the illusion of wearing stockings and eyebrow pencils were used to create the illusion of a seam up the back of each leg.

Once the stocking seams were straight, Spencer opened the box containing the corsage Bill purchased for her and carefully pinned it to the left lapel of her uniform. The USO donated the red, white or blue uniforms. She was also wearing the angel necklace, her Christmas present from Guarnere.

Leigh was pleased to see Bill in the audience occupying the seat the USO reserved for him. Spencer was standing in an area backstage that allowed her to see the audience without the audience seeing her.

Guarnere, like the other enlisted men in attendance, wore his dress uniform. He, Bull Randleman, George Luz, Shifty Powers and Don Malarkey stood out in the crowd wearing their trousers bloused over the tops of their meticulously shined Corcoran boots. Colonel Sink was also sitting with the Easy Company men and he was eager to see the performances of Spencer and Adams.

The emcee stepped up to the microphone and said, "Last, but not least, Miss Leigh Spencer!" Leigh's uniform was sapphire blue and the jacket looked like a short dress, shorter than the dresses and skirts women wore, but long enough to provide modest coverage.

Spencer's shoulder length hair was coiffed to perfection and she wore it down, the waves and curls framing her face. She sported glossy red nail polish that matched her lipstick and she accentuated her eyes with eyeliner, an eyebrow pencil and mascara. The mascara American women used in the 1940s was a cake of brown or black mascara in a small plastic case. The mascara was applied with a tiny brush that fit into the plastic case. Spencer also wore a hint of rouge and some powder on her face.

Leigh walked onstage confidently and took her place at the microphone. Guarnere thought,

"Holy Christ, my baby looks beautiful! Just like one o' them bombshell dames in the movies."

The band played the opening chord to Leigh's number. She looked demure as she sang,

"I was alone on a shelf. In a world by myself. Oh, where could my Prince Charming be?" She turned slightly to the right, smiling as she sang,

"But a man came along, made my life like a song, and taught me these words of ecstasy. Tenderly."

Bill felt that his heart was nearly bursting with pride and love for his girl. Guarnere knew that he had been hit by what his father called "the bolt of lightning" the day he met Leigh.

He had liked and lusted after girls before, but he had never been in love before. Guarnere thought,

"Ain't no doubt about it. I love this angel." Bill knew that Spencer cared about him a great deal. He decided to take a risk and tell her how he felt after the show was over.

The orchestra struck another chord and Leigh raised both arms. She started snapping her fingers and doing a slight shimmy to the boogie woogie rhythm, singing,

"I want some huggin' and some squeezin' and some muggin' and some teasin' and some stuff like that there. I want some pettin' and some spoonin' and some happy honeymoonin' and some stuff like that there." She moved forward, still snapping her fingers, the smile never leaving her face,

"I used to think that love was just a lot of rubbish" she turned to her left, "a mess o' cabbage," she turned to her right, "a mess of cabbage." Spencer stood in the center of the stage,

"But now my attitude is wholly lovey dovish. And Baby you, you've done it." She resumed snapping her fingers and doing a slight shimmy,

" I want some kissin' and some hopin' and some missin' and some mopin' and some stuff like that there. I want some leapin' and some chasin' and some weepin' and some pacin' and some stuff like that there."

The men in the audience, Colonel Sink included, were now standing and clapping their hands in time to the music. Spencer sang,

"And when I get a certain feelin' I confess it. There's really only one expression to express it. I want some kissin' and some hopin' and some missin' and some mopin' and some leapin' and some chasin' and some weepin' and some pacin' and some stuff. I want some stuff like that there!"

The band began an instrumental portion of the song. Spencer danced backwards on stage for a few measures, clapping her hands. Then, she strutted up to the microphone and quickly took several steps backwards to her left.

She then stepped in front of the microphone, moving it closer to the end of the stage. Leigh felt nearly giddy at this point and exihilerated. Bill wanted to shout,

"That's my baby!" but he didn't want to detract attention from Spencer's performance. He thought,

" I never knew she could dance. Look at her go! She has this entire audience eatin' out of the palm of her hand." Leigh sang,

"I used to think romance was bunk. A double mickey for the icky. But all at once my heart was sunk. And Baby, you," she pointed at Guarnere and winked,

" You've done it." Bill returned the wink and he had a big smile on his face. She sang,

" I want some kissin' and some hopin' and some missin' and some mopin' and some," (She said in a sexy voice) "stuff like that there. I want some leapin' and some chasin' and some weepin' and some pacin' and some (She raised her arms up over her head and bumped her hips to the right and to the left) stuff like that there."

Bill shouted out,

"That's my baby!" A soldier sitting in the next row heard Bill and gave him a look of disbelief, saying,

"You wish!" The soldier's friends laughed, but Guarnere didn't hear them. He was too caught up in the moment. Spencer sang,

"And when I get a certain feelin' I confess it. There's really only one expression to express it. "

She stood in the center of the stage,

"I want some huggin', squeezin', muggin', teasin' and some stuff," Leigh raised her arms over her head,"I want some stuff like that there!"

After the last note faded away, Spencer was surprised by the loud applause from the men who were still standing up. She thanked the audience, took a bow and walked offstage.

Leigh knew that she had done her best, no matter the outcome. It took a few minutes for the men to sit down and be quiet, then the emcee returned to the stage.

He announced,

"The judges are making their decisions. While we wait, here's some music to keep things moving along." Backstage, the contestants had the option of remaining in the wings of the stage or sitting in the audience if they had significant others who were watching the show.

Spencer and Adams decided to sit with Guarnere and Randleman. The women carefully made their way to a staircase that led to the auditorium.

Leigh noticed that there was an empty seat beside Bill when she was performing. Melissa and Leigh opened the door and walked into the auditorium.

Although the house lights were still down, they had no problem locating their boyfriends. Adams sat beside Bull, who hugged and kissed her.

Spencer walked up to the seat beside Bill and whispered in his ear, "Excuse me, Sir, is this seat taken?" Guarnere was on his feet in an instant, embracing Leigh and kissing her.

"Baby, ya done one hell of a good job! "

"Just look at ya, drop dead gorgeous! You're every bit as good as Judy Garland an' those other music movie broads!"

Leigh smiled, enjoying Bill's review of her performance and his compliments. Guarnere realized that the show was still going on. He took Spencer's hand and they sat down.

The soldier who doubted that Leigh was Bill's girl was proven wrong as he witnessed the couple embracing, kissing, sitting together and holding hands. Once they were seated, Spencer told Guarnere,

"Thanks so much for the beautiful roses. You're so sweet and thoughtful!"

"It was my pleasure, Sweetheart. He kissed Spencer's hand, telling her, "I swear to God, you could make a livin' singin' and dancin'."

"Thanks, Bill." Before anything else could be said, the emcee returned and announced,

"The judges have made their decisions," Guarnere took Spencer's hand, saying,

"It's OK, Baby, you've got this thing won."

"I hope you're right." The emcee told the audience,

"Due to a special circumstance, the USO judges would like to call Colonel Sink onstage. Sink got up from his seat and walked up some stairs at the right side of the stage. Once he was onstage, the emcee and Sink conferred away from the microphone and with their backs to the audience.

Leigh thought, "Could it possibly be..." Sink stepped up to the microphone and stated,

"It gives me great pleasure to announce the name of the first woman selected by the USO. She got her start at Camp Toccoa and she works here at Fort Benning, the talented comedienne Melissa Adams!" The audience applauded. Bull hugged a very stunned Melissa. Bill whispered to Leigh,

"It ain't over yet, Baby. You've gotta be the next one." After a dramatic pause, Colonel Sink continued,

"It gives me great pleasure and a sense of pride to announce the name of the second woman selected by the USO. She also got her start at Camp Toccoa and she also works at Fort Benning, the singing and dancing fireball Leigh Spencer! The audience applauded again.

Leigh jumped up from her seat, shouting,

"Oh my God, Bill, I made it!". Guarnere quickly stood up, embracing Spencer and giving her a passionate kiss, telling Leigh, "I am so goddamned proud of ya, Baby," he grinned, adding, "I knew ya had this thing won. Old Guarnere ain't never wrong."

He put his hands on Leigh's waist, lifting her and gently spinning her around. Spencer had a radiant smile on her face and she giggled as Bill literally swept her off her feet.

A quick thinking reporter with a camera took pictures of Leigh jumping out of her seat, plus two pictures of Guarnere kissing her and briefly spinning her around. He approached the happy couple, telling them,

"I'm Roger Anderson from the Stars and Stripes newspaper. I just took some pictures of you two. Would you please pose for one picture together in case the other pictures I took didn't turn out well?"

Bill replied,

"Sure, that's fine wit'me." Spencer gave her consent. Anderson told Bill,

"Sergeant , you have red lipstick on your lips. You might want to get that cleaned off before I take the picture. Bill got a handkerchief out of a pocket in his dress uniform jacket and wiped off the lipstick returning the handkerchief to his pocket.

Then he and Leigh posed side by side. Guarnere had his arm around Leigh's shoulders.

"Sir, if it isn't too much trouble, would you please send copies of the newspapers and copies of the pictures to our families? Also, would you please get some copies of the paper and the pictures for us?"

"That's a good idea, Sweetheart." Anderson said,

"I'll be glad to get pictures and papers to everyone you mentioned, including yourselves. All I need are names and addresses, plus the correct spellings of both of your names." He handed a reporter's notebook and a pencil to Guarnere.

As he wrote, Leigh commented,

"Bill, you have exquisite handwriting. Mr. Anderson, I will do my best to make my handwriting legible. It usually looks as if I held the pen with my toes." Guarnere chuckled at her remark.

Spencer filled out all of the necessary information. Bill told her,

"It looks fine to me, Baby." Anderson added,

"It looks good, Miss Spencer. Thanks for posing for the picture Sergeant Guarnere and thank you, Miss Spencer. I promise to get everything delivered as soon as possible."

During this time, the show officially ended and the audience began to leave the auditorium. Shifty Powers came up to Melissa and told her,

"Congratulations, Miss Adams. I declare, you are a born story teller. If it wouldn't be too much of a problem, would you please write down your jokes? I'd like to send them to my daddy. He would really enjoy them."

"Thank you, Shifty. I'd be glad to write my jokes down for you. I bet your daddy is proud of you earnin' your jump wings." Powers shyly replied,

"Thank you, Miss Adams, I reckon that he's proud of me." Powers then went to Leigh, telling her,

"Congratulations, Miss Spencer. You did some fine singing and dancing and you looked like a movie star up on that stage," Leigh replied,

"Thanks so much, Shifty. I really appreciate your nice compliments." Meanwhile, George Luz stepped up to talk to Bill, telling him,

"You should've left the red lipstick on. It made you look beautiful." Guarnere chuckled and told George,

"Shaddup!"

Malarkey congratulated both women and headed out for the NCO club. An informal gathering had been planned for the small group. A middle aged USO female volunteer walked onto the stage asking,

"Will all contestants please return their uniforms to the dressing room before leaving the building? " Melissa headed for the dressing room. Randleman promised to wait for her.

Bill embraced Leigh, tenderly kissing her, saying,

"My baby's gonna be a star." He lowered his voice, telling Spencer,

"I wish they allowed ya to keep that dress. You have no idea what it does to me." Leigh also kept her voice low, saying to Guarnere,

"Maybe they would let me borrow it for one evening. Then, you can show me exactly what that dress does to you."

"Sink was right. You're a fireball. My little fireball." Leigh replied,

"Damned straight I'm yours." Guarnere commented,

"Don't forget that, ya sassy, sexy dame." Spencer said,

"I never want to forget that, you sexy dream boat. I'll be back as soon as I can."

@lizziebitch3. @alluringmoonlightbabe

#bill guarnere #easy company #william guarnere #how-are-those-nuts-sarge #band of brothers #wild bill guarnere #band of brothers imagine #valhallavalkyrie9 #mrsalwayswrite #bill guarnere imagine #vintagelavenderskies #bill guarnere smut #ethereal-jumpwings #ethereal jumpwings #rogue-barnes-durin-main #Youtube

[msmercury84]

"I Double Dare You" "Paris Part 2: Is Leigh On Her Way to Stardom?"

*Author's Note: My depiction of Bill Guarnere is solely based on the actor's portrayal in the movie. Special thanks to alluring moonlight babe for an excellent idea that I'm using in this story.*

When Leigh arrived for rehearsal the next day, it didn't take the Andrews Sisters long to notice the engagement ring glistening on Spencer's finger. The women hugged and congratulated her. Maxine said,

"How about we include this in tonight's show? It's going on the radio and your friends and relatives can hear the good news." Spencer thought it was a wonderful idea. Laverne Andrews told Leigh,

"Let's really celebrate in style. We're going to make sure Bill gets a front row seat and both of you will get the V.I.P. treatment. Leigh, we're getting a chauffeur driven limousine to bring you here instead of the cab you usually take. The same driver and car will bring your handsome fiance to the show." Spencer was surprised,

"I can't thank you ladies enough for making this special occasion even more special. Your generosity is boundless and I appreciate it." Patti Andrews asked her sisters and Leigh,

"How about we announce the engagement and then have our bride to be come onstage and sing " Busy as A Bee" then we go right into "Apple Blossom Time" and sing that song to the happy couple?" Her idea was quickly approved. Maxine Andrews asked Spencer,

"What do you think of singing that song to your fiance? Do you think he would object to being onstage?"

"Bill would love it. As you know, we both adore your music."

"Consider it done." Leigh and the famous trio started their rehearsal. Spencer was eager to see Guarnere's reaction to being onstage.

The show would be recorded live and played on the radio the following evening in the United States due to the difference in time zones.

*********************************************************************

Leigh was waiting for the concierge to call and inform her that the driver was waiting by the front entrance.

"The Andrews Sisters are going all out for us tonight. I'm going in a limo to the theater. You will be picked up by the same driver when it's close to the time for our show to begin. A front row seat is reserved in your name." Bill grinned,

"Who'd believe that ol' Guarnere would get to ride in a fancy car wit' a driver? Baby, I'm really lookin' forward to this show.

Tomorrow night, the entire United States will hear you singin' on the radio." Spencer was starting to get nervous about performing.

"I know you mean well, Bill, but I wish you hadn't mentioned the radio broadcast. Honey, I'm nervous and a little bit scared." Guarnere wrapped his arms around Leigh,

"Sweetheart, I know you can do this. Like I told ya back in Aldebourne, ain't nothin' wrong wit' bein' nervous. Just turn your fear into the best goddamn performance o' your life. I know that you're gonna be a big hit tonight. Ol' Guarnere ain't never wrong." Bill gave her a tender kiss, adding,

"I believe in you an' I love ya, Leigh." Spencer returned the kiss,

"Thanks for the pep talk and thanks for believing in me. I love you, too, Bill. I think I'll do what I did before the USO competition and pretend I'm singing to you and you alone." He smiled,

"Now you're cookin' wit' gas. I need to shave an' put on my dress uniform. If the car comes for ya while I'm gettin' ready, I'll see ya at the show."

"You'll get a call when the driver is here. I'm looking forward to seeing a certain handsome paratrooper in the front row." Guarnere kissed Leigh,

"Baby, I wouldn't miss this show for anythin'." The telephone rang and Spencer answered. She thanked the concierge and ended the call.

"The driver is waiting, so I'll see you at the show, Honey." She picked up her purse.

"You're gonna be great tonight, Sweetheart. I'd better get movin'." Guarnere left the room and Spencer put on a tailored charcoal gray wool coat. The coat had dark gray buttons accented with tiny flecks of gold coloring. She left the suite, heading for the front entrance of the hotel.

The driver saw Leigh exiting the hotel and he got out of the limousine and went around the car to open the rear passenger door. She thanked the driver and got into the limo and the driver took her to the theater.

Once Spencer arrived at the stage door, she went into her dressing room. The Andrews Sisters had three hairdressers on the payroll and they brought along an extra hairdresser for Leigh.

Spencer was extremely impressed with the skill of the woman styling her hair. Leigh's hair had been extra curly and frizzy due to light snow and a bit of elevated humidity. When the stylist used a curling iron to smooth the excessive curls, her hair looked silky.

Leigh thanked the hairdresser and the woman departed the dressing room. Spencer opened a garment bag and removed the dress that was custom made by the Andrews Sisters' costume designer.

The dress was made of lightweight red velvet covered with dyed to match red handmade lace. It had capped sleeves and a flared skirt. The bodice and sleeves had crystals the size of rhinestones strategically placed to reflect the stage lights. Spencer was pleased that the neckline of her dress would showcase the angel necklace.

Since Leigh was already wearing her bra and panties, she put on her garter belt and stockings, the girdle she detested and a slip. Spencer added open toed black high heeled shoes with narrow straps that fastened around her ankles.

She sat at the dressing table and carefully applied a hint of rouge, powder, eyeliner, a touch of eyebrow pencil, mascara, a new shade of lipstick that matched her dress and nail polish that matched her lipstick.

Meanwhile, Bill had shaved. He put on his dress uniform, ensuring that his Jump Wings, Silver Star ribbon and Combat Infantryman Badge on the left front of his uniform jacket and the Presidential Army Unit Citation with one oak leaf cluster on the right front of his jacket were on straight. A valet from the hotel delivered Guarnere's Corcoran boots that were polished to perfection.

Soon, the telephone rang and Bill went downstairs to the lobby and met the driver of the limousine who opened the door for Guarnere. Bill thanked him and they departed for the theater. He had time to enjoy a cigarette during his ride through the streets of Paris.

Guarnere stopped by the ticket office of the theater and he picked up his ticket for a seat at the end of the center aisle of the first row. Bill noticed that the theater was filled with servicemen and a few civilians.

The prospect of attending a live performance by his favorite group was exciting in and of itself for Bill. Knowing that his fiancee was performing in the show alongside the famous trio made him feel proud and elated. The fact that Leigh would be heard by most of the United States the next evening was icing on the cake, as far as Bill was concerned.

A radio announcer with a microphone and recording equipment was in the wings of the theater's backstage area. A few technicians were on hand to ensure that the radio program was successfully recorded.

Backstage, a messenger knocked on the door of Leigh's dressing room. She opened the door and smiled when she saw a small white box in the man's hands. Spencer thanked him, gave him a tip and closed the door.

She took the box to the dressing table and opened it. Leigh took out a corsage of three white Sweetheart Roses with rose leaves and a delicate, thin, gold colored bow. Spencer smiled as she read the card,

"Baby, you will be a star tonight. You can do this. All my love, Bill." She carefully pinned the corsage to her dress.

Guarnere went to the main desk the day before while Spencer was at rehearsal. He found a helpful older man who exchanged Bill's American currency for French currency, saving Guarnere the hassle of going to a bank.

The concierge helped Bill place the order with a florist, who told him that white roses would show up better on a red dress. Bill thanked the man for his help and left a generous tip.

Leigh and the Andrews Sisters did some vocal exercises to warm up before the show. The sisters wore their trademark military inspired uniforms and hats. Patti looked through a small opening in the curtain and she told the other women,

"We have a packed house tonight, girls." Leigh took a look through the opening of the curtain and smiled when she saw Bill. Knowing he was in the audience made her feel more at ease.

The emcee walked onstage. Standing before one of the microphones on the stage, he said,

"Servicemen, ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the concert. We're recording live tonight and the broadcast will be played on CBS radio in the states tomorrow night.

This evening, our show will be transmitted live for all servicemen and women who are here in Europe. Our servicemen and women in the Pacific Theater will have this show on the radio tomorrow night.

Please allow me to introduce the best female singing group in the world, the Andrews Sisters and Leigh Spencer, a USO singer chosen to perform with them.

The curtain was raised and the four singers walked onstage. Each woman took her place in front of a microphone. Bill had a big smile on his face as he saw Leigh with the corsage pinned on her dress.

Maxine told the military personnel in the audience,

"We're honored to perform for the men and women who are serving our country. Since we're broadcasting to military bases here in Europe, I'm going to ask our special guest performer if she would like to say a few words to some folks she knows.

Besides performing for the USO, Leigh Spencer is serving our country as a WAAC." The audience applauded for Spencer.

"I'd like to say hello to the finest bunch of paratroopers in service, the men of Easy Company, the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division. I've been a Clerical WAAC for the offices of the 506th since 1942. This regiment has an excellent captain and former CO, Captain Richard Winters and the finest Colonel, Robert Sink."

*********************************************************************

Back at the Army base in Holland, the Easy Company men, Winters, Bull, Melissa and Colonel Sink were in the mess hall listening to the broadcast. They were very pleased to hear themselves mentioned on the radio. Winters had a grin on his face when he heard his name mentioned and the usually stern Sink was smiling.

**********************************************************************

The show began with the Andrews Sisters and Leigh performing the sisters' biggest hits. Spencer felt at home onstage once she started singing and she was determined to give her finest performance. Bill thought,

"This is the best singin' I've heard from Leigh. She's goin' all out tonight!" Midway through the show, Laverne Andrews told the audience,

"We have some happy news about our very talented guest singer. Leigh Spencer got engaged last night to the man she met at Camp Toccoa, Georgia, Staff Sergeant Bill Guarnere."

When the men of Easy Company, Captain Winters, Colonel Sink, Bull and Melissa heard this on the radio, they applauded and cheered. The audience in the theater applauded. Andrews said,

"We would like to have Staff Sergeant Guarnere join us onstage. How about it, Bill?" Guarnere had a beaming smile on his face as he walked up the steps leading to the stage. An assistant backstage brought a chair out for him. Bill sat down and he winked at Leigh. Maxine said,

"Leigh is going to sing for you and then we're going to sing a number for you and your bride to be." The big band orchestra played the lengthy introduction to "Busy as A Bee" and Spencer moved the microphone so she could be facing Bill and she began to sing,

"Busy as a bee, I'm buzz, buzz, buzzin'

Buzzin' the neighbors and breakin' the news.

Babblin' like a brook, I'm bab, bab, babblin'

Gather together the rice and old shoes.

Busy as a bee, I'm buzz, buzz, buzzin'

Spreading the wedding all over the town.

Bidding all the boys a big, big bye-bye,

Me and my honey are settlin' down.

Oh, you've put a certain sound in my heart.

It's sweet music that I hear.

With you buzzin' all around in my heart

I know heaven is near.

We've got everybody and his cousin

Talkin' it over and makin' a fuss.

Busy as a bee, I'm buzz, buzz, buzzin'

Happy, so happy it happened to us."

Bill and the audience applauded loudly. Leigh walked over to stand beside Guarnere. He gently pulled her onto his lap, wrapping his arms around her. The sisters began the song,

"I'll be with you in apple blossom time. On the day that I change your name to mine.

One day in May, I'll come and say,

Happy the bride that the sun shines on today.

What a wonderful wedding there will be.

What a wonderful day for you and me.

Church bells will chime.

You will be mine in apple blossom time."

There was an instrumental and Patti Andrews repeated the verses of the song again. Bill and Leigh were smiling throughout the song. The announcer said,

"The sergeant has his fiancee sitting on his lap and he has his arms around her. They appear to be very much in love." Guarnere and Spencer joined the audience in applauding when the song was finished. Bill gave Leigh a tender kiss before returning to his seat with a smile on his face and a bit of red lipstick on his lips.

***********************************************************************

At the Army base Mess Hall, the Easy Company men applauded for Leigh after she sang. They were surprised when Bill joined the Andrews Sisters onstage. George Luz grinned,

"You know that Wild Bill is just eating this up with a spoon. That lucky bastard!" The men agreed with Luz. Buck Compton remarked,

"It's a nice touch for the Andrews Sisters to sing to Bill and Leigh. Boys, the announcer is telling us something we've known for a long time about them being 'very much in love.'" George Luz chimed in,

"Next thing you know, the announcer will tell us another amazing fact, that water is wet." The men laughed as the radio announcer commented,

"The sergeant just returned to his seat with some of his fiancee's lipstick remaining on his lips."

***********************************************************************

When Bill took his seat, an Army serviceman tapped him on the shoulder,

"Buddy, you've got lipstick on your lips. Congratulations on your engagement." Guarnere thanked him and removed the lipstick with his handkerchief. Maxine Andrews said,

"Our guest singer is called The Songbird of the 506th and the following song is her signature number. Here's Leigh Spencer singing " Stuff Like That There."

The audience members were on their feet, clapping along with the music. Spencer got a standing ovation and had to do three curtain calls before the show could continue. Bill felt a moment of sadness when he thought,

"I wish Henry could've heard this show." Guarnere missed his brother and was still mourning his loss. Bill's mood lifted when he imagined the reaction his mother would have when she heard Leigh singing on the radio and learning that Bill was included in the show.

"The whole neighborhood will hear her yellin'. Hell, I'll probably hear her all the way across the ocean!"

Before doing the final number, Leigh went to her dressing room to change into her WAAC uniform. When the Andrews Sisters' manager contacted the Commander of the WAACs in Iowa to ask if Leigh could perform in her uniform, he was told that the dignity of the uniform might be compromised if it would be worn as a costume.

The agent assured the commander that the uniform and the WAACs would be honored. Permission was granted and Leigh was permitted to wear her hair down for the songs in which she would appear in her uniform.

While the Andrews Sisters sang a song, Leigh got into her uniform and pinned her corsage on the lapel of her jacket. Maxine Andrews told the audience,

"For our last number, we wanted our guest to wear her uniform so we could dress alike, more or less. Leigh, come on out and help us with this number."

The audience applauded as Spencer walked out in her uniform. Laverne Andrews looked at the stripes on Leigh's jacket sleeves,

"Girls, we're outranked. We'd better ask Sergeant Spencer if she would like to perform with us." Sergeant Spencer told them that she would love to sing with them.

They began their biggest hit, "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy." The audience clapped in rhythm with their singing. The sisters and Leigh did a complicated dance routine, making it look effortless.

The audience gave them a standing ovation. Patti Andrews thanked the audience,

"How can we refuse such a nice group of people?" She asked her sisters and Leigh,

"Ready girls?" They answered,

"Yes" in unison. Their encore number was another upbeat favorite, "Don't Sit Under the Apple Tree." This time, the audience stood up and clapped their hands in time with the music. The song received a tremendous amount of applause.

Laverne Andrews thanked the audience, asking them,

"Would you like to hear another number from our guest singer?" The applause was very loud.

"Here's Leigh with 'Thanks for the Boogie Ride." The sisters left the stage and the band leader stood at a microphone. He would sing with Spencer. The upbeat song brought a loud, lengthy round of applause.

The sisters returned onstage and thanked the audience for a wonderful evening. Maxine Andrews asked,

"How about a hand for the very talented bride to be, Leigh Spencer." To Leigh's surprise, the audience, including Bill, gave her a standing ovation, applauding loudly. She had a beaming smile on her face as she looked at the audience. The radio announcer reported,

"The audience is giving Miss Spencer a standing ovation." In Holland, the Easy Company men, Winters, Sink, Bull and Melissa were applauding and cheering.The colonel remarked,

"That girl is extremely talented and she's honored the 506th tonight." George Luz had a huge smile on his face as he said,

"Leigh is one hell of a singer! This couldn't have happened to a nicer person." Dick Winters grinned, commenting,

"Would you believe that Leigh asked me if I thought she was good enough to audition for the USO job?"

************************************************************************

The show had ended and as the audience began to file out of the theater, Bill was getting ready to go outside to wait for Leigh by the stage door. Laverne Andrews saw him,

"Come on backstage, Bill. There's no need for you to go outside." Guarnere thanked her,

"You and your sisters were somethin' else tonight. I really enjoyed the show." Andrews thanked him,

"Your fiancee was phenomenal, Bill." Guarnere grinned and replied as he walked up the steps leading to the stage,

"Excuse my language, Miss Andrews, my baby done one hell of an amazin' job!" Once he was on the stage, Laverne showed him where Spencer's dressing room was located.

Bill thanked her. He noticed that the door was open. Guarnere walked into the room, embracing and kissing Leigh.

"Honey, you done the best singin' I've ever heard ya do! I'm so goddamned proud of ya!"

"Thanks, Bill." Guarnere heard approaching footsteps and turned around. Maxine Andrews told a man with a large camera,

"She's in here." Andrews told Guarnere and Leigh,

"This gentleman is from the Paris newspaper. He doesn't speak English and he wants a picture of you and Leigh." Spencer asked,

"Maxine, would you and your sisters have a picture taken with us since a photographer is here? This would be a lovely memento of the concert."

"Let me get Patty and Laverne, they're next door. It would be a great way for us to commemorate the performance by the best USO singer we had as our guest."

True to her word, Maxine brought her sisters into Leigh's dressing room. Guarnere and Spencer sat next to each other in chairs while the famous trio stood behind them.

They thanked the sisters for posing with them. Next, Bill and Leigh agreed to pose for a picture that would appear in the Paris newspaper. Spencer spoke to the photographer in his native language. The man said something that made her smile. She told Guarnere,

"He said that the newspaper wants a picture of the brilliant singer and her fiance." Leigh wrote down their names for the reporter and asked for a copy of both pictures. The Andrews Sisters also wanted a copy of the picture in which they posed. The reporter promised to send the photographs right away. Before leaving the dressing room, Maxine told Leigh,

"You really are the best USO singer we've had performing with us. You've got it, Kid!" Spencer thanked her,

"I didn't expect the standing ovation or any attention from the media." Andrews grinned,

"You earned it, Leigh. Whenever you and Bill are ready to go, the driver is waiting."

"Thanks so much for the star treatment."

"We're glad you and Bill enjoyed it." She left the dressing room. Spencer went over to stand behind a large screen.

"Honey, I just need to change my clothes and we can go. Thanks for the beautiful roses." Leigh removed her uniform, placing it in a garment bag that she had brought the day before the show. Then she put on her long sleeved red dress, carefully pinning her corsage on it.

She took the garment bag and walked around the screen.

""It was my pleasure, Baby." Bill helped Leigh into her coat, adding, "Honey, I think ya just became a singin' star tonight."

"I think my sweet fiance is getting ahead of himself a little bit. Honey, the show hasn't been on the radio in the States. It would be an honor to be recognized, but I've already made a decision about a singing career." Guarnere pulled up a chair for her and he found another for himself.

"Sweetheart, will ya please sit down? We need to talk about this. You know I ain't got a problem wit' ya singin'. Baby, even Maxine Andrews said you got talent. She's an authority on knowin' if a singer is good or bad. I think, honest to God, that you could be a famous singer." Leigh took Bill's hand,

"Yes, this would be my dream come true. It's what I've wanted for a long time, but I have another dream, too. How could I be a devoted wife if I'm performing all over the country? My dream of becoming your wife is well on its way to becoming true.

Bill, I dream of having a family with you. Anything else is secondary. I want to be the mother of your children. There's no way I could properly care for and raise children if I'm rarely home.

There's another point to be made. Maybe what I'm thinking would never take place, but you might reasonably resent me for being gone so much. You might even decide to marry another woman who would be content to be at home.

I will not allow someone else to step in and take the love of my life, our happy home and our babies." Guarnere realized that Leigh had been giving the matter a great deal of thought.

"Baby, you can't throw away the opportunity of a lifetime if it comes to ya. You know how much I love you. I ain't about to take up wit' some South Philly broad an' give up my angel. As far as family goes, we can work somethin' out. You could be passin' up the life of sell out audiences, concerts an' doin' what ya love." Leigh reached up to tenderly cup Bill's face in her hands,

"It wouldn't be much of a life without you. I appreciate what you've told me, it's good, solid advice, but my mind is made up. Honey, I want to be a wife and mother. That's what matters most to me.

Maybe I could get a job singing on the radio. New York City would be accessible by train and radio shows are five days a week. Please don't be angry with me." Guarnere gave her a passionate kiss. He broke the kiss a few moments later,

"Sweet Baby, I'm behind you one hundred percent, whatever ya decide. I love you, Leigh."

"I love you, too, Honey."

"How about we go back to the suite, maybe order somethin' to eat an' a few drinks? After that, I want to make love wit' the love o' my life." Bill gave her another passionate kiss and they left the dressing room, hand in hand as they walked to the limousine parked at the stage door exit.

They returned to the hotel suite and ordered supper with a nice bottle of wine. After listening to the radio, Guarnere and Leigh made love and snuggled together until they went to sleep.

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