Hope, Peace, Love.

[Red Ranger 1]

Really liked that opening bit.It was nice that Tony was willing to put aside his longing to get to know his daughter for Rachel's sake and that she realised what he was doing and stopped him.But I think the baby could still be an issue between them and it's something they need to discuss rather than just clinging to fading hopes.

Same with Aden and Belle to a point.The candlelit dinner was a sweet gesture but it feels like just postponing the inevitable and Belle needs to let him know what's going on rather than trying to second guess everything.

All in all, brilliant chapter, looking forward to more.

[charmed60]

Aww That was such a beautiful chapter, the way you perfectly described Tony and Rachel's different thoughts and emotions really made us be able to understand the different points of view. You can sympathize with Tony and the way in which he is inadvertently 'to blame' through no actual fault of his own yet is wracked with guilt and causing Rachel's pain. You can also sympathize with her however because the situation is an awful one and whilst it would be easy for her to take out her anger and devastation on Tony, she knows deep down that it's not his fault.

I thought the way in which you resolved the conversation was particularly in character for both of them; Tony denying what he really wants in order to protect and make Rachel happy whilst she is aware of this and forcing him to do what he needs to do for him and his daughter despite knowing it's going to hurt her. The added complication of

the recurrent miscarriages is an added extra which makes this whole situation heartbreaking and you're really portraying the complex emotions fantastically.

‘Please don’t give up on me,’ she whispered as she placed her hands on his chest and looked up at him through watery eyes. ‘There’s a specialist I want to see, it can happen, I know it can,’ she sobbed quietly. You do want it don’t you,’ she questioned, the fear showing on her face. ‘It’s not because of Jazz is it? I mean now you have a young daughter,’ she continued, almost bitterly.

I wanted to pick out this paragraph because my heart just broke reading it Rachel seemed to be so desperately clinging on to him and trying to convince him that everything would be perfect, that she would be able to to give him a child and do what Jazz has done for him. Her bitterness is palpable and whilst I think the conclusion of the chapter was a lovely ending, I doubt things are perfectly resolved and expect there will be some issues still there that will eventually show come up later on. I liked how you put subtle hints of that in here of the way Rachel is feeling and Tony.

The Aden/Belle chapter was also similar in that a circumstance is happening which neither of them control but they're torn between doing something for themselves and doing something for their relationship. The romantic meal was a lovely idea and I thought it was hilarious how Aden pretended to be angry (we needed that humour after the tragedy of the previous storyline!) however as mentioned above, it's all false pretenses and eventually the real issues are going to come up and they'll need to talk about it and be honest with each other. I'm interested to know where you're going with this.

Can't wait for the next update

[Barbara]

I love Rachel and Leah’s friendship. They’re always there for each other. I liked the fact Leah could also see Tony’s point of view.

I’m not liking the tension between Jack and Martha but I understand both point of views.

I loved Tony and Rachel’s talk. It’s good that Rachel convinced him to get to know his daughter. She is right. Tony would regret it eventually if he didn’t and he might even resent her for it one day.

Belle should tell Aden sooner rather than later. It’s only going to be harder. And what if he finds out from someone else?

More please.

[KirstyEkua]

Sorry i'm a little slow at updating. No excuses Thank you again for all the lovely comments; glad you all seem to be enjoying this.

Here goes.

‘Answer your flipping phone!’ Jazz cried out in frustration as she heard yet another voicemail message. It had been over a week since she’d last heard from Tony and she was losing patience. He’d taken Rachel away for a week to ‘come to terms with everything,’ and to spend ‘quality time with her.’ Jazz inwardly cringed at the memory and threw herself back onto the bed in the hotel room that had become her home. Taylor was driving her crazy; asking every hour of every God dam day when she’d see her daddy. Jazz was tired of making excuses for him. Although she did feel a little guilty for letting slip to Rachel that way she was glad it had happened. Finally everyone knew and she could get things moving. Unsurprisingly Tony had flipped out at her about the whole thing. Calculating and callous were just a few of the words he’d thrown her way before making her promise she’d never go near Rachel again. Laughing had probably not been to best idea she mused; the vivid memory of Tony punching the wall coming back to her. Tony insisted he didn’t want to hear for her until he came back and then, and only then would they make ‘small steps’ at getting Taylor involved. Jazz hated being told what to do. But she could wait for him she realised. She always got what she wanted.

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

‘Let’s just stay here for another week,’ Rachel suggested as snuggled down into the bed, pulling the white fluffy duvet around her body. Tony chuckled as he threw their clothes into bags, for once not minding that Rachel was lazing around.

‘That my love would be wonderful but unfortunately work waits,’ Tony smiled and bent down to kiss her head. ‘You ok?’ he asked, his tone suddenly serious. He squatted down by the bed and gently stroked her face. More than anything he hoped this past week had benefited her, as much as it could giving the circumstances.

Rachel nodded and smiled warmly. ‘I’m feeling a lot better,’ she admitted, lifting her head off the pillow to kiss him lightly on the lips. ‘It’s not going to be easy, I know that. But as long as we stick together I think it’ll all work out. It’s just something we have to deal with, right?’

‘Yes,’ Tony wasn’t sure if she was talking about their baby or his child with Jazz. But either way his relief as hearing those words was palpable.

‘And I have an appointment next week to see a specialist about the miscarriages,’ she whispered, somewhat hesitantly. ‘I know it’s a little soon but I just think I want to know what my, what our options are.’

‘That’s really great,’ he squeezed her hand gently before he felt the vibration in his pocket, causing him to stumble backwards. ‘Jazz,’ he sighed as he gazed at his phone before pressing the ignore button. ‘I told her not to bother me until we got back,’ he seethed as he stood up banged the phone on the bedside table.

‘Hey calm down,’ Rachel insisted as she sat up and grabbed his arm, pulling him down onto the bed next to her. ‘Don’t let her get to you,’ she pleaded. ‘Otherwise she’ll break you, you know that. We just have to make sure your daughter is happy with all of this,’ she smiled, ignoring the pain that shot through her chest every time she thought about Tony having a child with Jazz.

‘Yea, you’re right,’ Tony grinned at her. ‘I know I married you for a reason,’ he joked as he pulled her towards him and held her close, praying she was right.

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

‘Earth to Belle,’ Aden waved his hand in front of her face and gazed at her suspiciously. ‘What’s up with you? You’ve been like a space cadet for the past week or so.’

‘Nothing,’ Belle smiled reassuringly and pushed her fork around her plate; wishing she felt like eating the breakfast pancakes Aden had made.

‘Yeah right.’ Aden rolled his eyes towards the ceiling and sighed heavily. He was tried of trying to work out her moods. ‘You know Belle I’d really appreciate it if you just told me what you’re thinking. Is this because of me going to Uni? Ever since I told you it’s like you’ve become a completely different person.’

‘No,’ she turned to him in surprise. ‘You know how happy I am for you,’ she insisted.

‘Not really,’ he replied as he dropped his fork on the plate. ‘Your actions don’t really live up to it,’ he shrugged half heartedly. Belle’s heart sank. It had been over a week now and she’d still not been able to tell him about London. Every time she plucked up the courage to broach the subject something always stopped her at the last second. Fear, she quickly realised. As much as she was determined to do it with or without him; she knew deep down how much she wanted to be with him. Sometimes she wondered if she should just forget about the whole thing. London would always be there. But every time she stepped into the newsroom at work, every time she saw her name in print – it gave her such an amazing rush and she didn’t want to give that up. Who in their right mind would turn down the chance to write overseas. To see more of the world. Belle had always wanted to see Europe. Those were the questions that ran through her head night after night as she lay in Aden’s arms, his gently breathing ringing in her ears.

‘Aden,’ Belle twisted her hands in her lap and gazed at him. ‘I’ve been offered a job. In London.’ She laughed nervously. ‘And I really want you to come with me.’

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

‘I need the money now Jazz,’ the voice on the other end of the phone insisted. ‘I’ve given you enough time.’

‘I’m trying, you just need to give me a little more time,’ Jazz yelled angrily, cursing under her breath as Taylor appeared in the doorway of the bathroom, rubbing her eyes tiredly. ‘I have to go,’ she whispered. ‘Morning honey,’ she called out loudly, pressing the phone firmly against her ear, knowing he would hear.

‘Mummy,’ Taylor questioned as she wandered towards her and held her little arms out.

‘I’m coming, just go wait in the bedroom,’ Jazz pleaded. ‘Mummy just needs to finish this call.’

‘Can I watch cartoons?’ Taylor’s gummy smile broke Jazz’s heart as it reminded her she was putting her own child through.

‘Yes,’ Jazz smiled widely. ‘Go on quick.’ As soon as she saw her daughter disappear out of the bathroom she turned her attention back to the person on the other end of the phone. ‘Give me a few more days,’ she demanded, determined not to let her voice waver. ‘I promise you I’ll have it by then, whatever it takes. ‘ Before he could reply she hung up. Time was running out.

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

‘Dad and Rach should be back by now,’ Jack casually commented as he wandered into the kitchen where Martha was nosily doing the dishes. ‘I hope the break did them some good,’ he stared out the window at the mid afternoon sun. ‘Maybe we can go over and say hey.’

‘I guess,’ Martha shrugged. .

Jack sighed heavily. ‘You can’t ignore me forever,’ he muttered.

‘I actually just spoke to you,’ she pointed dryly out as she banged a cup down on the drying board. ‘So not ignoring you.’

‘Very funny,’ Jack rolled his eyes. The past week had not been easy. It seemed nothing he did made a difference. Martha seemed determined to push him out and it was killing him.

‘I’ll just get Laura ready then,’ he said, assuming her lack of response meant she wanted to go next door.

‘Sure,’ she replied. As annoyed as she was with Jack she wanted to see Rachel. And truth be told she was tired of arguing with him. If only he’d realise he was the one causing the problem. Men she thought to herself as she dried her hands on her jeans.

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

‘It is nice to be home I guess,’ Rachel laughed as she flopped onto the couch. ‘I could sleep right now,’ she admitted as she leaned her head against the cushion.

‘I guess sitting in a car for hours does take it out of you,’ Tony mocked as he placed their bags by the door.

‘Hey, don’t be mean,’ Rachel joked. ‘It’s been a hard week.’

‘I know,’ he whispered. ‘I’m sorry, I –’

‘I didn’t mean it like that,’ she said softly as she indicated for him to come and sit with her.

‘Oh sorry,’ he shook his head and sat down.

‘Stop apologising,’ she smiled and pulled him closer before gently kissing him.

‘Ok,’ he nodded in agreement and kissed her back, wincing as a knock at the door caused them both to stop and look up.

‘Perfect timing,’ he half joked to Rachel as Jack and Martha stood in the doorway, both slightly hesitant.

‘Sorry we weren’t interrupting anything?’ Jack looked nervously between them, wondering if it had been a good idea to come over so soon.

‘Not at all,’ Rachel grinned as much as she could, trying to disguise the pain that filled her when she saw Martha with Laura in her arms. ‘It’s great to see you, and my step grand-daughter too,’ she added, a little too brightly.

Martha smiled. ‘So how was it?’ She carefully sat down, thankful her baby was asleep; her head nestled in the crook of her elbow.

‘Good,’ Rachel said positively. ‘Really good actually, I think it’s just what we needed. I’m seeing a specialist next week and I’m going to see my counsellor tomorrow.’ She turned to Tony and smiled as he squeezed her hand gently.

‘That’s great Rach,’ Jack smiled encouragingly.

‘Yeah thanks,’ she replied. ‘So how are things with you?’

‘Couldn’t be better,’ Jack answered.

‘Oh fantastic,’ Martha muttered at the same time. ‘Well most of the time anyways,’ she added, throwing her husband a dirty look.

‘Is everything okay?’ Tony looked at his son and then his daughter in law. The tension between was palpable.

‘Fine,’ Jack assured. ‘Anyways what’s going on with Jazz?’ He didn’t want that line of conversation to continue.

‘Jack,’ Martha hissed.

‘Hey it’s fine,’ Rachel insisted. ‘We can’t ignore it forever.’ She shifted uncomfortable in her seat. It never got any easier to talk about.

‘I still can’t believe it,’ Tony spoke suddenly, brining Rachel’s hand to his lap. ‘I haven’t actually talked to her since Rach and I left. I probably should soon. She’s not exactly the most patient person. It’s just a hell of a shock. For all of us.’

‘Yeah,’ Martha leaned forward and shifted Laura so she was sleeping on her shoulder. ‘I can’t believe she just turned up like that. I think you’ve both been pretty amazing to cope with it how you have. I don’t know if I could be so calm.’ She addressed this to Rachel.

‘It’s been pretty crazy days,’ she admitted. ‘But what’s done is done and I don’t want to let her ruin anything between Tony and I.’ Rachel turned to her husband and smiled. ‘We’re going to be fine.’ She had to believe that.

[amz89]

Loved this update. Wonder what adens response will be? Can't wait for more.

[Red Ranger 1]

Ooh!Looks like Jazz is in some sort of trouble.Although I can see why Tony's been focusing on Rachel, he really needs to sort things out there soon.Good that Rachel's visiting a specialist, at least then she'll know where she stands.Good that Belle's finally told Aden, just need to see what his response is now...Looking forward to more.

[HighwayUnicorn]

Deleted.

[charmed60]

Oh wow what on earth has Jazz gotten herself into? It gives me a bad feeling that the only reason she's told Tony about Taylor is because she needs money from him; could this cause trouble between him and Rachel? Really interested to see where you're going with this! She's so awful the way she's not considering Rachel in all this and is expecting Tony to bow down to her.

It was lovely to see Tony and Rachel so relaxed and happy and able to have a mature conversation about Taylor and know that it's something that needs to be dealt with. I feel so sad for Rachel, knowing she has to encourage him to sort things out despite the pain it is going to cause her. I'm hoping this specialist can give them some answers so they at least know where they stand. Also loved your use of 'my love' good bit of characterisation there.

That Belle/Aden scene was left on such a cliffhanger! I'm desperate to know his reaction to it; Belle did the right thing by telling him it but it's also going to cause some problems because of his Uni offer. Maybe they can compromise and he can go to Uni in London?

It's sad to see Jack and Martha still struggling so much. Its understandable that there would be friction due to the hormones/stress after having a baby but they really should also be enjoying this time. I hope they can start talking soon.

Really loved the tension you built up in the scene with J&M and Tachel...Rachel's pain at seeing Laura was written well by you, particularly the way her voice changed and became too forced. Jack being so forward questioning about Jazz made me laugh he's not the most subtle but it was good that Rachel and Tony were so positive about it. Although I have to say I picked up on the feeling that Rachel was being too optimistic and perhaps it's her way of trying to convince herself things will be okay but they're not really. It's still a lot to deal with but at least they're working together now.

Can't wait for the next update x

[Barbara]

It looks like their trip did Rachel some good. She's smiling and joking again. Obviously, she hasn't got over it yet, which is understandable. It must be hard to be around Martha and Jack as they have their own little baby. I hope the specialist will have good news for her.

I'm glad Belle finally told Aden about her job offer. I wonder how he'll react though.

Things are still tensed between Martha and Jack. It'll take some time but hopefully, they'll stop arguing.

What is up with Jazz? It looks like she may be in trouble. It doesn't look good. She'd better not hurt Tony and Rachel to get out of trouble. She'd better think of her daughter's happiness too.

More please.

[KirstyEkua]

Thank you for all the lovely comments I'm glad you're all enjoying this and i hope i haven't gone too far with Jazz's character It's fun to write someone being a little nasty, hehe.

This is not very long, but i'm away all weekend to a music festival so wanted to get something posted before i left.

‘So you finally have some time in your busy schedule to see your daughter,’ Jazz commented sarcastically as she took a seat at the small café on the outskirts of town. Scanning the menu she gazed at Tony, watching as he started downwards and drummed his fingers on the table. The noise drove her crazy. She’d been hoping to meet somewhere local; such was her determination to let everyone know she had a child with Tony. The look on everyone’s faces. Jazz chuckled to herself. But Tony had insisted he wasn’t ready to announce it yet. He wanted it done on his terms and he wasn’t prepared to compromise. Jazz had been both shocked and slightly amused by how insistent he was being. He had balls after all. It was a side to him she’d never really seen before. Definitely something she could get used too.

‘What are you smirking at?’ Tony smiled slightly at her. ‘Something you want to share?’

‘Nothing,’ Jazz shrugged, blushing slightly. She’d been unaware he’d been watching her.

‘So what’s the plan?’ Tony asked. He didn’t want to get side tracked. He was picking up Rachel from her counselling session in an hour.

‘I was thinking tomorrow morning we could go to the park together,’ Jazz suggested. ‘She loves the swings and feeding the ducks. It would be a nice way to spend time with her.’

‘Sounds good,’ Tony replied genuinely. ‘I’m looking forward to meeting her.’ He smiled at Jazz sincerely. ‘I want to make this work out, for everyone involved. I, I really want to be a part of her life. Sorry for how I acted. It was just a bit of a shock. And with everything else that’s been going on, well it was a lot to take.’

‘It’s ok,’ Jazz replied brightly. Getting angry at him wouldn’t do her cause any good. ‘I guess it’s not every day you find out you have a 4 year old daughter.’ Jazz laughed. ‘Want to see a picture?’ Before Tony could answer she started rummaging around in her bag, bending down slightly. The low cut top had been a good idea, she thought, as she caught him staring at her from corner of her eye. ‘Here,’ she grinned triumphantly as she handed him the slightly crushed photo.

‘Thanks,’ Tony gazed at it. She looked just like Jazz, with her long dark hair and cheeky smile. ‘She’s beautiful,’ Tony placed the picture face down, chocked with emotion.

‘She has your eyes,’ Jazz said, breaking the silence that had suddenly engulfed them. ‘Although you can’t really see from that picture,’ she added quickly. ‘Do you want anything?’ She picked up the menu and reeled off the options.

‘Just a coffee,’ Tony shrugged. ‘I’m taking Rach out to dinner tonight so don’t want to spoil my appetite.’

‘Oh how lovely,’ Jazz rolled her eyes.

‘Don’t start,’ he warned. ‘You’re going to have to start treating her with respect otherwise this will never work. Staring tomorrow.’

‘What? I don’t want her to be there tomorrow,’ Jazz shook her head. ‘It’s too soon,’ she insisted. ‘Right now she just needs to know you, not your lovely wife,’ she deadpanned.

‘Okay fine, fine.’ Tony waved his hand in the air, silencing her. As much as he hated to admit it she was right. ‘But eventually I want her involved, she’s Taylor’s step mother and I won’t have her pushed out of this. And I’m choosing to ignore your last comment.’

‘Whatever,’ Jazz bit down on her lip as she struggled to contain herself. Don’t blow your top she told herself, forcing herself to breath deeply. ‘Sorry,’ she smiled sweetly at the man sitting opposite her, suddenly noticing the dark circles under his eyes. She felt a little sorry for him. It wasn’t his fault his wife was such a neurotic cow. ‘I just want what’s best for my, for our daughter,’ she emphasised.

‘Right,’ Tony nodded. ‘I do too. So let’s do this,’ he sighed. I guess you want to talk about money? He asked hesitantly. He didn’t want to offend. Things getting ugly was the last thing he wanted.

‘I’m glad you brought that up. It’s a little awkward.’ Jazz sighed with relief. This was going to be easier than she thought.

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

‘Oh My God, Noo!’ Martha howled.

‘What, what, Martha what’s the matter?’ Jack rushed into the kitchen, terrified at what he might find. He looked around in a panic. ‘Martha?’ he pressed. She was standing by the table; the washing basket sitting in the middle.

‘Everything is pink!’ she cried as she frantically grabbed items of clothing and held them up in front of her.

‘Oh my,’ Jack stifled a laugh as Martha held up a pair of his once white boxers. They were now a lovely bubblegum pink.

‘It’s not funny!’ Martha threw the clothing at him and began rifling through the basket. ‘All of it, it’s ruined,’ she said in despair.

‘Hey come on it’s not that big a deal,’ Jack reassured, placing his hand on her lower back. ‘We’re all going to match,’ he laughed. ‘We’re gonna look so cute walking out in pink, like the marshmallow family,’ he bellowed.

‘Jack!’ Martha burst into tears. ‘Stop it. I can’t even do the washing properly,’ she chocked out through her tears.

‘Martha!’ Jack gazed at her alarm and pulled her close. ‘Don’t be silly anyone could leave a,’ he paused and rummaged around the basket ‘red sock in the wash.’

‘Yeah but it had to be me,’ she muttered miserably. ‘I can’t do anything right.’

‘Stop saying that,’ Jack insisted. ‘You’re an amazing mum. Laura agrees with me.’ Jack half smiled. He wished his wife would let herself take a break and realise she didn’t have to be on top of everything all the time. Jack certainly didn’t expect her too. The issue of the party still hung over them like a black cloud that was threatening to explode at any second. Jack had pretty much given up on it, figuring waiting for Martha to make the first move was probably better.

‘Yeah well.’ Martha sniffed. ‘You would say that. Everything is just so over whelming,’ she admitted meekly as she sat at the table. ‘And I feel so guilty.’

‘Why?’ Jack pulled up a chair beside her and brought her hand up to his lips. ‘You’ve had a baby Martha; I don’t expect everything to be the way it was before.’

‘No, I know.’ She shook her head. ‘That’s not what I meant. I mean, I should be so happy. I have a beautiful perfect little baby and all I do is moan and complain. And Rachel is going through so much pain. I have the one thing she wants most in the world but she’s still acting like she wants to be around me. If I were in her position I wouldn’t want to be near me.’

‘Yes you would.’ Jack gazed at her. ‘What Rachel and Dad are going through right now is awful but we can’t change what’s happened. Rachel’s a strong woman. She’ll be okay,’ Jack half asked, his voice hinged with uncertainty.

‘She’s not as strong as everyone thinks.’ Martha added sadly. ‘She just doesn’t let many people in.’

‘I know how much Dad loves her,’ Jack commented. ‘If any couple can get through this, they can.’

‘Yeah,’ Martha smiled lightly at her husband. ‘I really hope so.’

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

‘How did it go?’ Tony asked, his voice full of concern as Rachel climbed into the passenger seat. He leaned over and quickly kissed her. ‘I was thinking about you,’ he admitted before pulling away from the hospital.

‘Me too.’ She smiled and giggled as she gazed at him. He always looked so serious while driving. It never failed to amuse her.

‘Cut it out,’ he laughed and stole a quick glance at her; glad she seemed to be in a good mood.

‘Sorry,’ she replied insincerely. ‘You do look pretty cute though,’ she winked mischievously. ‘Anyways,’ she continued, he voice becoming more serious. ‘Today went really well.’ Tony listened with relief as she sat back in the chair and talked him through her session. Hearing her sound so animated was like music to his ears. ‘You know she actually suggested that maybe next week you could come too,’ Rachel suggested lightly. ‘It affects us both, maybe it would be good. You don’t have too,’ Rachel said quickly as she noticed the look of apprehension on his face. ‘It was just an idea.’

‘No I think it’s great, honestly.’ He noticed the stricken look on her face. ‘I’d love to come with you,’ he said as sincerely as he could.

‘Good.’ Rachel glanced out of the window and watched as people strolled the pavements, ate ice cream and walked their dogs. She could just about make out the sea in the distance, the sparking blue spreading out in front of her. Rachel wondered how everyone seemed so carefree. She guessed they had their problems. ‘So how did it go with Jazz,’ she asked without facing him.

‘Pretty well.’ Tony gripped the steering wheel a little tighter. ‘I’m going to um, see Taylor tomorrow. We’re taking her to the park.’

‘We?’ Rachel shifted position and stared at him.

‘Well, yeah me and Jazz. She didn’t think it was a good idea for her to meet you so soon,’ Tony muttered, hating himself for what he was saying. ‘It’s only going to be for a couple of hours,’ Tony rambled on. ‘I do want you to meet her Rach of course I do it’s just Jazz and -’

‘Hey it’s okay,’ Rachel cut him off. ‘I understand. I didn’t really expect to meet her so soon anyways. You don’t want to overwhelm her too much.’ She placed her hand on his thigh. ‘I trust you to do the right thing.’

‘Thanks love.’ He quickly turned to her and smiled. ‘I love you very much, you know that right?’

Rachel nodded. ‘Wait, tomorrow’s the 7th right.’ A sinking feeling washed over her. She couldn’t believe she’d forgotten.

‘Yes,’ Tony smiled, slightly bemused. ‘Why? It’s not like you to forget what date we’re on.’

‘It’s my, well technically our, meeting with the specialist tomorrow afternoon. In the city, which probably means we’ll need most of the day.’ Rachel glanced down at her hands and twisted them nervously in her lap.

‘Oh ****,’ Tony cried as he swerved to avoid a cat that had appeared from nowhere. ‘Sorry,’ he banged his hand on the steering wheel. ‘I can’t believe I forgot. I could talk to Jazz about changing the day or do you think, that maybe uh, we could get an appointment later in the week?’ He knew how pathetic he sounded.

‘No. He’s pretty in demand,’ Rachel pointed out, desperately trying to control her anger. ‘It’s fine I’ll get Leah to come with me or something.’

‘No Rach I really want to be there. It’s important to me you have to believe that. But Taylor has waited so long and you know what Jazz is like. She’s ready to flip and if that happens then God knows where we’ll end up.’

‘It’s fine,’ Rachel shrugged and once again turned away from him, hoping he wouldn’t see the tears that were beginning to fall.