Forever and Always

[Danni02]

Thanks

ninety-one

Heath walked down the hall, giving a little chuckled as he saw Kaya standing outside the bathroom door, her ear pressed up against it. “What you doing?” Heath questioned.

“Shhh,” Kaya put her index finger over her mouth as he walked over to her. “Mummy is sick.”

Heath put his hand onto Kaya’s shoulder, rubbing it lightly. “Well you go be a good little daughter and get her a glass of water,” Heath said and Kaya gave a little nod as she ran down the hall towards the kitchen. “Babe,” Heath knocked on the bathroom door softly before walking in and over to Bianca who was hugging over the toilet bowl. He crouched down next to her, holding her hair back with one hand as he rubbed her back with his other. “Is there anything I can do for you?”

Bianca shook her head as she wiped her hand across her mouth before flushing the toilet, looking around to him. “Unfortunately this is just something I’ll have to deal with for a while.”

“Well I hope it’s not for too long,” Heath said. “How were you with Kaya?”

“Not bad,” Bianca shook her head. “Just a few days of sickness in the beginning,” Bianca told him. “Apart from getting a bump and feeling her moving around it didn’t even feel like I was pregnant.”

“Well hopefully this one is the same for you,” Heath said, his hand brushing over her stomach. “You be nice for mummy okay?” Heath smiled, still not quiet believing he now not only had a fiancée but now had a baby on the way and already had a gorgeous little girl who adored him like a father and he likewise, adored Kaya like his own daughter.

“Dad,” Heath looked around as he heard Kaya saying the word, still getting a glow every time she said it. “I’m always nice for mum.” Kaya scolded, having picking up the conversation wrongly.

“I know you are.” Heath smiled at her.

“Here,” Kaya gave the water to her mother, Bianca taking a drink right away. “Is you sick?” Kaya asked. “Maybe you got the food poisoning,” Kaya said and Bianca looked to her daughter, wondering where she’d got that idea from. “My friend Cassie at school, her dad got food poisoning when they were on holiday in Thailand and he was sick all night,” Kaya exhaled. “Cassie said it looked like carrots in soup.”

“Kaya.” Bianca screwed her face up and Heath laughed.

“Well she did,” Kaya sighed. “I’m just saying.”

Heath gave a little laugh. “You got get ready,” Heath ruffled her hair. “How about a nice family day at the beach?” Heath questioned and Kaya cheered before she rushed out of the bathroom to get herself ready. “You up for a day at the beach?” Heath questioned.

“Yeah I’ll be fine.” Bianca smiled as she leaned up and placed a soft kiss on Heath lips.

“Eugh,” Heath pulled back, mocking disgust. “You clean your teeth before you kiss me again.” Heath said as he stood up before helping Bianca to her feet, both of them giving a little laugh.

******

Ruby and Josie were back at the hospital, sitting by Evan’s side. They were told the swelling to the brain had reduced significantly over night, which was good news, some good news that they’d been hoping for. “You do believe Will’s story, don’t you?” Josie questioned.

“What do you mean?” Ruby scrunched her face up.

“About the girl in the bar. That all he did was knock her drink over?” Josie questioned. “He loves you Ruby. He wouldn’t try it on with anyone else.”

“I know,” Ruby answered, her hand stroking over Evan’s. “I trust him and it sounds like Evan.” Ruby exhaled.

“He’s one of the good ones.” Josie said, Ruby giving a little nod, agreeing with her.

“One of the best,” Ruby said, her gaze never leaving Evan. “You and Derek raised a wonderful son,” Ruby answered, her lips pursing as she saw Josie play with her wedding ring in mention of her husband’s name. “Is he like Derek, in a way?”

“Not in that way,” Josie shook her head. “We both know how Derek abandoned his first family.”

“Well he was young,” Ruby exhaled. “And he surely made up for that by being there for you and Evan all this time.” Ruby said, knowing there was no excusing Derek for abandoning James and his mother and at least he redeemed himself a little by being there for Evan all his life.

“Yes, I guess so,” Josie exhaled. “But he’s like his father,” Josie gave a little smile, glancing at her son as he looked so peaceful. “I guess that’s good, right?” Josie questioned. “His father lives on,” Josie paused. “You know I....when Evan told me his brother didn’t seem to want anything to do with him I was glad in a way,” Josie bowed her head a little. “I know it might have been selfish of me but he’s my only son. Derek is gone and now Evan is living in a different state, I....” Josie paused. “He said he was still staying because even though James didn’t want to know him, he’d met someone and felt such a strong connection that he had to see where it could go,” Josie exhaled. “I...I wanted to hate you Ruby. You were the reason my son was staying far away from me, but in this short time, I.....seeing you sitting there with my son,” Josie shook her head. “You’re lovely and I’m so glad Evan has you.”

“I guess I can’t be mad at you for admitting that,” Ruby exhaled. “It must be hard with your only family living so far away.”

“Don’t think I am some kind of loner,” Josie exhaled. “Obviously I have friends, but, well Evan is my son.”

“I know,” Ruby exhaled. “I couldn’t deal with being away from my mum, to be honest,” Ruby told her. “I don’t know how Evan can do it.”

“Maybe boys are just a little different from girls,” Josie shrugged. “And now he does have a relationship with James I guess there’s more reasons for him being with you guys. I just...I wish he’d call more. Visit me more.”

“You leave that to me,” Ruby told her, Josie giving her a little smile. “I’ll get him to visit more. You can come out and see Summer Bay; it’s a gorgeous little place.”

“I’d love that,” Josie smiled. “And I hope you come too, not just Evan.” Josie told her.

“Of course.” Ruby gave Josie a smile, glad she was getting on with Evan’s mother. She looked back to Evan, her hand still holding onto his, hoping he’d soon to able to wake up.

******

Charlie walked into the house, tired after a long shift at the station. She walked into the living room, seeing Brax having a battle with Georgia, Charlie knowing all too well it was bath time. “No,” Georgia squealed. “I like being dirty.” Georgia frowned, her fists clenched as she stomped her foot off the floor.

“Georgia,” Brax stifled a laugh. “You need to bath.”

“No no no no no,” Georgia shook her head, running over to her mother, seeking protection from Brax insisting she bathed. “Mummy no, ay?”

“I think you do need to bath sweetie.” Charlie tucked her hair behind her ear.

Georgia sighed, looking deflated. “I don’t want too.”

“You always love bath time once you are in,” Charlie said, her hand running through her soft chocolate brown hair. “Go on up the stairs and daddy will be up to bath you soon.”

“No daddy,” Georgia shook her head. “You mummy,” Georgia wrapped her arms around Charlie’s neck. “I no sees you the days.” Georgia sighed, seeming most annoyed Charlie was out at work while she was hope with daddy and the boys.

“Right, go pick out your pyjamas and some bath toys and I’ll be up soon,” Charlie said before Georgia ran off up the stairs. “Where are the boys?” Charlie wondered.

“They’re in Daniels room,” Brax answered. “Playing battleships.”

“Daniel feeling better?” Charlie questioned.

“He was sick after lunch but looks a lot better so think he’s over the worst,” Brax answered and Charlie gave a little nod. “Had Angelo around earlier.” Brax told her.

“Oh yeah?” Charlie questioned. “He drop by for any reason in particular?” Charlie wondered. Brax and Angelo were work partners, but not much more. They’d didn’t really socialise together so Charlie wondered what Angelo would be doing round at the house.

“He offered me a business opportunity,” Brax told his wife. “He’s moving back to Melbourne and wants to sell his share of the restaurant to me.” Brax said, Charlie seeing the smile etching on his face.

“Wow,” Charlie raised her eyebrows. “So the restaurant would be all yours?”

“Yeah,” Brax nodded. “That’s cool, huh?” Brax questioned. “I get to be the boss. I get to pick and chose when I work, could give myself a little pay rise,” Brax chuckled. “The ideas and changes running through my mind for that place already is -”

“You haven’t already said yes, have you?” Charlie questioned, hoping he’d talk to her about something like that before going ahead with it.

“Of course I’ve said yes,” Brax answered. “Why wouldn’t I?”

“Don’t you think that’s something you should have talked over with me first?” Charlie questioned. “He’s not just going to give you his half, is he?” Charlie’s voice rose a little. “I’m pretty sure he will want lots of our money for it.”

“Well yeah but,” Brax rubbed the back of his head. “We have money, Charlie. And we can take out a loan to cover some. It’s not like we’ll be refused a loan.”

“But we are also trying for a baby,” Charlie exhaled. “And they don’t come cheap,” Charlie shook her head. “I can’t believe you said yes without discussing it with me first. I’m your wife. This is definitely a decision we should have talked over.”

“But Charlie it’s a -” Brax started to talk but she spoke over him, Brax seeing she looked angry.

“I need to go bath Georgia,” Charlie sighed. “We can talk about this later.” Charlie mumbled before she left the room, Brax hearing her walking up the stairs rather loudly.

[Danni02]

Thanks.

ninety-two

“And this is really all just for me,” Kobe beamed as he pulled Bianca’s into his bedroom. “My bunk beds and I like the top,” Kobe said, climbing up onto the first stair of the ladder and pointing up. “My Wally up there,” Kobe pointed to the teddy on his pillow. “He’s awesome cool,” Kobe said jumping down to the floor and running over to the corner. “This is my bean bag chair. It’s comfy,” Kobe told her as he threw himself down into the seat. “Oh and thems all my Lego’s. I love Lego,” Kobe said running over to the shelving unit and pointing to the boxes of Lego there for him to built. “And my animal books and all my other toys,” Kobe jumped excitedly. “This is my best room ever Bee because it’s my forever home with my forever mummy and daddy and sisters and brother.”

“Yeah it is,” Bianca smiled down at him. “It’s a lovely room, Kobe.”

“No,” Kobe shook his head. “It’s the best ever room I ever see’d,” Kobe told her. “The best, Bianca.”

“Okay,” Bianca gave a little laugh as she rubbed his shoulder. “You going to come back down? Go swimming with the others?”

“In a minute,” Kobe told her. “I want to see some of my animals.” Kobe took out a book on African Animals and walked over to his bean bag chair, slumping down as he opened the book. Bianca watched him for a moment, smiling as she watched him looking at his book, her hand brushing over her stomach as she wondered if this child would be as sweet and gentle in nature as little Kobe was.

“Okay, you come down when you are ready yeah?” Bianca questioned and Kobe nodded, his gaze staying on his book. Bianca walked out of the room and went back down the stairs and out of the house, sitting back down on the chair next to Charlie who was watching the kids in the pool. “He’s reading in his room,” Bianca told her. “Lovely room you did for him. He’s very excited about it.” Bianca smiled, picking up her iced tea and taking a drink.

“Isn’t he?” Charlie exhaled, her gaze staying on the kids, Daniel being a shark as he chased Georgia and Kaya around in the water.

“Mmm,” Bianca smiled. “Looks like Daniel is back to normal.” Bianca gestured to Daniel as he caught Kaya, dragging her under the water as Georgia giggled as her little hands held onto the side of the pool which was their ‘safe’ area.

“Yeah.” Charlie nodded.

Bianca looked to her friend, her lips pursing. “Are you going to tell me what’s got you in such a foul mood?” Bianca questioned.

“I’m fine.” Charlie answered.

“No, Charlie. No you are not,” Bianca sighed. “You’ve been short with me ever since Kaya and I got here,” Bianca said. “I...have I done something to offend you?”

“No,” Charlie pursed her lips. “I....it’s Brax,” Charlie sighed. “He’s gone and said he’d buy Angelo out of the restaurant without discussing it with me first.”

“Oh wow,” Bianca widened her eyes. “So is Angelo leaving town then?”

“That’s what you are focusing on?” Charlie questioned, her eyebrows raising. “I think at least he should have had the decency to discuss it with me first,” Charlie sighed, her head shaking in annoyance. “I’m his wife, this is....it’s the kind of decision we are supposed to talk over. It’s not like it’s only going to cost him $20, is it?” Charlie questioned.

“Well no,” Bianca shook her head. “But owning his own restaurant would -”

“And he wants a baby,” Charlie hit her hand against her stomach. “They don’t cost $20 either.”

“Wouldn’t that be nice,” Bianca murmured, Charlie noticing her hand brushing over her stomach. “But how about instead of being mad at Brax, you guys talk it out?”

“How do you know we’ve not?” Charlie questioned.

“Because I know you two and usually you’ll let an argument fester for a couple of days first.” Bianca answered, Charlie sighing as she knew her friend was right, so she was unable to deny it.

“He sprung it on me right at Georgia’s bath time last night,” Charlie told her friend. “I said we’d talk more after that but,” Charlie shook her head. “He got into a game with the boys then it was their bedtime,” Charlie pursed her lips. “I was tired after a hard day at work and went to bed pretty early myself....” Charlie trailed off.

“Well what if instead of having this barbeque celebration lunch, Heath, Kaya and I go home and let you talk?” Bianca questioned. Heath and Brax going for a surf before they’d come home and Brax would get the barbeque started.

“Uh-uh,” Charlie shook her head. “We are doing this lunch,” Charlie told her friend. “I’m going to check on Kobe.” Charlie said as she stood up and walked into the house.

******

“Where’s Finlay?” Xavier questioned, looking beyond April and James.

“I don’t know who Finlay is,” James answered. “But Finn is with his grandmother.” James said as they sat down at the table opposite Xavier.

“You’re mum around?” Xavier wondered, looking to April.

April scrunched her face up. “Irene is the closest thing he has to a grandmother,” April answered. “And well there’s James’ grams but she’s technically his great grandmother.” April said, her hand taking James’ from under the table.

“Oh they’re here,” April and James looked up to see a man walking over to the table. “April, James,” Lincoln shook their hands. “I’m Lincoln. Xav’s better half.”

“I’m James,” James said as Lincoln took a seat next to Xavier. “The man whose been raising little dude for the last 3 and a half years.”

“And I am sure Xavier is thankful for that,” Lincoln said, glancing at Xavier. April stared at Lincoln, with his deep blue eyes and his dark brown hair, dressed in smart khaki shorts and a plain white t-shirt; she did think he was a very attractive looking man. “Right pookey?” Lincoln said as he rubbed Xavier’s arm. April bit her lip, trying not to laugh at his pet name.

“Of course,” Xavier answered. “But it’s important for Finn to form a relationship with his real father, don’t you think?”

“If he was a good man,” April answered. “I’m struggling to see you in any other light but the bastard who left his young, scared, pregnant girlfriend to deal with it all alone,” April retorted. “A few times when Finn was little you said you wanted to get to know him but nothing ever came of it. You were never interested.”

“I...” Xavier pursed his lips. “I was scared I’d get stuck with you,” Xavier mumbled. “I liked you, April, I really did and yes at first I was desperate for us to get back together and be a family so I could be normal,” Xavier admitted. “Have the gorgeous girl and the sweet little baby,” Xavier said. “But I was also fighting with myself that I was gay and I....he needed a father who was sure of who he was.”

“So you are trying to justify abandoning your son because you were struggling to come to terms with gay?” April spat. “Finn wouldn’t care if you were gay,” April sounded angry. “He just needed you. Someone to love him, sing to him, care for him, spend time with him,” April sighed. “And what now?” April questioned. “Because you are happy with who you are and are in a committed relationship you are all of a sudden ready to be Finn’s father?”

“Well, I.....” Xavier rubbed the back of his head, glancing from April to James to Lincoln then back to April. “I wouldn’t quiet put it like that, but yeah.” Xavier admitted.

“It doesn’t work like that mate,” James shook his head. “You should have been there from the get go.”

“He’s trying to do the right thing now.” Lincoln said.

“The right thing?” April questioned.”You want to do the right thing then go back to Melbourne and stay out of Finn’s life,” April seethed. “He is happy and settled. He has his father and James gives him all he needs and more.”

“No,” Xavier shook his head. “He is my little boy and I want to get to know him. I have rights and I assume you got the letter. That’s why we are really here today, right?”

“Joint custody right now is just laughable. No judge will side with you. Two gay boys over the boy’s mother, father and little brother. He is in a loving settled family hope. He won’t be taken from that and given to two men. He won’t.” James shook his head.

“I want to see my son.” Xavier raised his voice, his fist banging on the table, getting a few looks from other customers.

“Then drop the court hearing,” James also raised his voice. “We can talk about you getting access, supervised visits to start but only if you drop the court hearing,” James told him. “You want to spend time with your son then you need to let April and I conduct the terms for now,” James said. “You don’t swoop in after nearly 4 years with all this you have rights crap,” James spat. “Earn your rights.” James told him.

Xavier pursed his lips, his head staring to shake. “Xav,” Lincoln spoke. “He’s right. I think we should do things how they want. Be reasonable, go along with it. The reins will loosen over time.”

“My son,” Xavier said as he stood up. “He’s my son.” Xavier seethed before walking away, Lincoln quickly getting up to following after him.

[Danni02]

Thanks

ninety-three

After they ate, the kids all went back into the pool, Heath and Brax promising they’d come in soon to play with them. “Bianca, are you sure you don’t want a glass of wine?” Brax questioned. “We are supposed to be celebrating your engagement after all.”

“No no,” Bianca answered quickly, waving her hands out in front of her. “I’m fine. Besides someone has to drive us home.” Bianca answered, glancing at Heath who was on his second beer.

“You could walk,” Brax suggested. “It’s a gorgeous day.”

“She said she didn’t want a drink,” Charlie glared at her husband. “I’ll take another one though,” Charlie waved her empty glass in front of his face. Brax glanced at her, sighing lightly before pouring her a glass. “So,” Charlie looked back to Bianca. “We getting a wedding soon or is it going to be a long engagement?” Charlie wondered.

“Uhm,” Bianca pursed her lips. “We’ve not really talked about it,” Bianca exhaled. “But probably a longish engagement,” Bianca curled her nose. “What do you think?” Bianca said, looking to Heath.

“Uhm, well maybe not as long as these guys took,” Heath stifled a laugh as he pointed to Charlie then Brax. “But probably after the baby is born,” Heath said, Bianca looking alarmed as he widened his eyes at his mistake. “Uh I mean your baby,” Heath cleared his throat, hoping that lie would be believed. “Don’t expect either of you would like a fat bridesmaid.”

“Heath.” Bianca glared at her fiancé. Heath not sure if it was because of the mistake he made at almost letting the baby news out or for saying Charlie would be a fat bridesmaid.

“I’m not even pregnant yet,” Charlie said. “Well that I am aware of, at least,” Charlie muttered. “So don’t hold off a wedding on my account.” Charlie glanced at Bianca and the girls shared a look, Bianca getting the feeling she knew about the baby.

“Nah nah,” Heath shook his head. “Besides, we’ve not been engaged a week yet. We are just going to enjoy being engaged for a while.” Heath said before leaning in and placing a soft kiss on Bianca’s lips.

“Well I say enjoy the moment bro,” Brax took a gulp of beer. “Because once you get married you can hardly breathe without her permission,” Brax muttered, glancing at Charlie. “I’m going into the pool.” Brax said, putting his bottle of beer down on the table, the loud bang not going unnoticed as Heath and Bianca exchanged a glance.

******

James walked back down the stairs, seeing April standing in the door way to the living room, gazing into the room, the look of love very much on her face. “Look hun I hope you’re not mad at me for what I said to Xav today because -”

“Shhh.” April shushed him.

“No hun I mean it because -” James walked down the hall, getting closer to April.

“Look Jay I am annoyed,” April sighed. “But I’m not annoyed at what you said. I am annoyed because I know you are right,” April told him, taking his hand and pulling him close to her, the side of his body pressing against the side of hers. “But look at our boy.” April whispered, not wanting Finn to know they were there. April having been to the kitchen to get Finn a juice box and upon her return had round Finn sitting by the play mat where Leo was laying, a book in his hand as he read to his baby brother, or at least, looking at the pictures and talking about them, given he was unable to read, Finn not yet being four.

“Aww that’s so sweet.” James gushed.

“Uhm...this a cat,” Finn said pointing to the picture of the cat in the A-Z book. “They’s goes meow,” Finn made a cat sound before he turned the page and looked at the next picture. “This a duck. It goes quack quack quack,” Finn quacked before looking up as he heard a little laugh from James. “Daddy.”Finn went red in the face.

“You reading to little bro?” James questioned as he and April walked into the room, Finn nodding his head in response.

“You’re being a very good big brother.” April told him as sat down close to him, putting the juice box down on the floor as she lifted Finn so he was sitting on her knee.

“Yeah,” Finn answered. “I teaches him.” Finn said, pointing to the picture of the egg on the book.

“That’s my boy.” April wrapped her arms around him as she kissed his temple.

“You read mummy.” Finn said, wanting April to take the book from him.

“I think you are doing a pretty good job yourself bud,” April ran her hand over his head. “You should keep reading. Shouldn’t he daddy?”

“Oh yeah,” James sat down on the floor next to Finn and April, his hand lightly rubbing Leo’s as he gazed around the room. “Better than me and mummy at reading,” James said, giving April a cheeky grin. “You keep going little dude.” James ruffled Finn’s hair, Finn grinning at him. James stared at him for a moment, his heart melting at the love he had for him, knowing that deep down, even though he knew they needed to let Xavier see his son, he didn’t want to. He didn’t want Finn seeing anyone but him as his father.

“Kay,” Finn said, looking back down to the book. “This a fish,” Finn said, looking back to the book and going on to tell Leo about fish. Leo made a little noise as he moved his arm a little. “They live in water,” Finn told Leo, April smiling as she looked to James who was still staring intently at Finn. “They’s like swimming.” Finn said, staring down at his baby brother whose eyes were scanning around him, looking at James, Finn and April and the little safari animals that was hanging on the play mat above him, trying to take everyone and everything in. The family sat there together, Finn reading to Leo, April and James sharing a smile as they enjoyed some precious family time.

******

Josie and Ruby had taken a break from being at the hospital and went to a close by diner to get something to eat. “So,” Josie exhaled as they waited on their food to come. “How’s your family?”

“Yeah good,” Ruby nodded, knowing Josie didn’t want to talk about Evan and truthfully she didn’t either so would be happy to stay away from the topic. “Enjoying the school holidays.”

Josie gave a little smile. “You’ve got 3 siblings, right?” Josie questioned. “A brother and two sisters if I remember correctly.”

Ruby sucked her drink through the straw as she shook her head. “Two brothers and a sister.” Ruby corrected.

“But they are a lot younger than you?” Josie said, trying to remember what Evan had told her about Ruby’s family.

“9, 5 and 2,” Ruby answered. “Despite the 11 years age gap Daniel is my full brother, my mum and her husband are adopting Kobe and Georgia is theirs together,” Ruby informed her. “Pretty mixed family but we are all so close, tight. I see them all as my little siblings equally.”

“Of course,” Josie smiled. “So the little one in the terrible twos?” Josie gave a little laugh.

“She’s not so bad now,” Ruby answered. “She had her moments when she first turned two though,” Ruby said. “But she’s awesome and really taken a shine to Evan and he’s fantastic with her. He’s going to be a great father.” Ruby said before she sucked in her bottom lip, not having managed to keep the conversation away from Evan for very long.

“Oh I know,” Josie smiled. “I can’t wait to be a grandmother. Although you two are only 20 so I’m not going to start rushing you so you have no pressure this end of the family.”

“Good to know,” Ruby gave a nervous laugh, a child right now being the last thing on her mind. “Don’t think my mum would appreciate being made a grandmother right now anyways,” Ruby told her. “In fact I think she and Brax are trying to get pregnant again so I’ll leave the baby bearing to her for now.” Ruby said once again taking a drink through the straw.

“So how do you feel about that?” Josie wondered. “There’s going to be like 21 years between you two.”

Ruby gave a little shrug. “She was young when I was born so it’s not like she’s too old to be having kids,” Ruby told Josie. “And she’s a great mum and this kid will be lucky to have her and Brax as parents. And of course me as a big sister,” Ruby laughed. “The boys will be great too,” Ruby added. “Little Gee is the only one I’m not sure about,” Ruby said. “I mean she loves seeing April and James’ little boy but he’s not her mummy’s is he?” Ruby questioned. “But we’ll just have to wait and see.”

“Yeah.” Josie nodded, glad to be having a normal conversation with her son’s girlfriend, away from the hospital and the worry of Evan waking up and how he’d be when he did.

[Danni02]

Thank you

ninety-four

“Okay sweetheart. I’ll call you tomorrow,” Charlie exhaled. “Love you. Goodnight.” Charlie said before hanging up her phone and throwing it onto the bedside table, before turning around a little startled to see Brax standing in the doorway of their room, his hands folded across his chest.

“How’s Evan?” Brax questioned, walking further into the room.

“Still in the coma,” Charlie answered. “There’s still some swelling to the brain.”

Brax gave a little nod. “And how’s Rubes?”

“She says she fine but I can hear she’s not.” Charlie told him, Brax knowing by Charlie’s tone that she was worried for her daughter.

“Josie will look after her.” Brax tried to reassure her.

“Yeah cos she’s not going to be worried about her son, is she?” Charlie spat. Brax sighed lightly as he rubbed his hand over his forehead. “Is Kobe okay?” Charlie questioned, before Brax had the chance to respond to her. Kobe had woken up after a bad dream, the poor little boy looking petrified. Even thought it was rare, Kobe would still occasionally have bad dreams about people hurting him.

“Fine,” Brax answered, Brax having been taking him back to bed. “So....” Brax rolled his wedding ring around his finger. “Are we going to talk about how you won’t let me buy the restaurant?”

Charlie pursed her lips as she sat down on the side of the bed, Brax walking over and sitting down next to her. “I didn’t say I wasn’t going to let you,” Charlie sighed looking up to her husband. “I just....I was surprised you went ahead and made that decision without discussing it with me first.”

“I didn’t think I needed to get your permission to better my career and make more money for ourselves and the kids.” Brax retorted.

Charlie sniggered. “Surely you can see why this is something we should have talked about,” Charlie sounded frustrated. Surely Brax wasn’t that dumb. “It’s not like you went out and bought yourself a new shirt,” Charlie sighed. “You bought a bloody restaurant.”

“I haven’t bought it yet,” Brax spat. “I just....I said I would.”

“I just...” Charlie clicked her tongue. “I don’t know if right now is the time to be spending that sort of money and tying ourselves to a loan,” Charlie told him, Brax picking up on her concern. “We are trying to get pregnant and you know as much as we’d love it if they did, babies don’t come with money or clothes or everything else they need.”

“But it’s not like we are strapped for cash,” Brax argued. “We have a lot in our savings and we both make a good wage. I’ve looked over the numbers, Charlie. I’m not going to get us into financial trouble by doing this and we.....we get to have our own restaurant. Our place,” Brax said. “I get to be my own boss. I can decide when I work and be here more for you and the kids.” Brax rubbed his hand over hers.

Charlie sighed as she looked up into his eyes. She knew he really wanted this, he’d talked many times before about one day having his own restaurant and she wasn’t going to stop him from having his dream, she was just angry he didn’t think to talk to her about it first. She also knew they could afford it or at least be able to pay back a loan easily and not land themselves in trouble. “Well I’m glad you’ve finally got your dream.” Charlie murmured.

“So I can do it?” Brax questioned.

“Of course I am going to say you should do it,” Charlie told him. “I would always say yes but I’m just pissed you said yes without telling me about it first.” Charlie said before she stood up and walked over to their bathroom, the door closing loudly.

******

“Babe?” April looked at James who was having some late night cuddles with Leo, the pair of them sitting up in bed together.

“Mmm,” James broke his gaze from Leo and looked to his fiancée. “What’s up?”

“Uhm,” April pursed her lips. “I....I took the morning after pill yesterday,” April told him, James widening his eyes, a little surprised. “You know we weren’t safe and I....I haven’t got my period yet after having Leo but I just wanted to be safe, in case, you know.” April looked down to Leo, lightly brushing her index finger over his little hand.

“We don’t want another baby just yet,” James said. “Isn’t that right little bro?” James cooed. “You are our bubba right now, aren’t you?” James questioned, his hand rubbing over Leo’s cheek. “You could have told me. I’d have come with you.” James said, looking back to April.

“It was fine,” April exhaled. “I went to the pharmacy, got the pill.....easy,” April bit her lip. “I was probably overreacting. Like I said my period hasn’t returned yet so it would be pretty hard to get myself pregnant, but it’s more for my piece of mind I guess.”

“Yeah,” James answered. “And we’ll be safe from now on,” James exhaled. “Maybe you could go get one of those IDU thingy’s again.”

“IUD,” April corrected. “And that didn’t really work out to well for me last time did it?” April questioned, her finger once again rubbing Leo’s hand. “Don’t get me wrong I love our little accident very much but the IUD was supposed to stop him from happening.”

“I think it’s pretty rare that you’d get pregnant twice while you have a IUD fitted,” James exhaled. “And a lot of the time we were just relying on that to work but from now on I’ll always use condoms too.”

“To right you will,” April retorted. “I’m still not sure about the IUD though. Maybe I’ll just go on the pill.”

“Can you take that right now?” James wondered. “With you breastfeeding?”

“There is a kind I can take,” April answered. “I’ll probably just go in and talk to Erin about contraception.”

“Probably a good idea,” James said. “Finn and little bro here are more than enough for right now.” James smiled down at his son. Leo focused his eyes for only a second before they darted around again.

“Well I hate to break this cute little father son hug time but Leo is due a feed before he’s put down.” April said taking her son into her arms and starting to feed him, James cupping his son’s little head as he stared down at him lovingly.

******

Ruby tossed and turned in the bed, unable to get to sleep. She sighed as she sat up, flinging the sheet from her body. She picked up her phone from the bedside table and went into the pictures, smiling as she looked at the picture of her and Evan. She ran her fingers over the screen, feeling her eyes stinging with tears. “Please be okay baby,” Ruby whispered. “I need you to be okay,” Ruby murmured. “We’ve got plans,” Ruby moved to the next photo, this one being just of Evan only in his board shorts, his toned muscular body on show. Sometimes she couldn’t believe she could love someone so different from Dex, but then sometimes she thought that was why she also loved Evan. He was very different from Dex which meant it was possible to love them both. “Marriage, the kids, the big house with the white picket fence,” Ruby said. “I want all that, I do,” Ruby leaned down and kissed the picture. “But I need you to pull through for that to happen,” Ruby exhaled. “We can have Sophia and Gabriella then little Alexander, we can,” Ruby pursed her lips, looking up to ceiling. “Please let him be okay.” Ruby murmured, her heart beating faster as she was still worried about what kind of recovery Evan would make.

[Danni02]

Thanks

ninety-five

“And I thought it was April meeting me,” Xavier sighed as he saw James approaching. “She know about this?” Xavier questioned. James shook his head lightly. “So what do you want?” Xavier wondered.

“How much is it going to take for you to leave town?” James questioned.

Xavier screwed his face up a little. “I’m not going anywhere,” Xavier said. “I’ve applied for a transfer to Yabbie Creek and Linc can start a business anywhere.”

James shook his head. “Twenty grand? Forty?” James questioned. “I’m sure we can figure out a price for you two to leave and not come back. Or at least come back and demand Finn again.”

“Wait,” Xavier held his hand out in front of him. “You are trying to bribe a police officer here?” Xavier gave a little laugh. “Not a clever idea is it?”

“It’s the best idea I’ve had,” James replied. “You and Lincoln get to leave with a good bit of money, April and I get our son.”

“But he’s my son.” Xavier retorted.

“Not really,” James shook his head. “According to Finn I am daddy,” James told him. “He’s happy, settled, getting all he needs and more from a loving father,” James said. “If you feel anything for that little boy then you’ll leave him to me,” James said. “You sign some papers and I’m legally his father,” James told him. “You and Lincoln can get some money, take a holiday, he can start up his business, put a deposit down on your own place,” James exhaled, listing possibilities. “Whatever you want,” James said. “You can rent a womb and get that child of your own,” James said. “A child who you can be there for from the beginning. But don’t do this to Finn please. April and I....we,” James trailed off, his head shaking. “Please.”

Xavier sniggered. “80 grand.”

James widened his eyes. “$50.” James said, not quiet believing it was as easy to get Xavier to accept an offer of money to leave Finn for good.

“Nah,” Xavier laughed. “You want me to clear off, $80.”

“$60.” James said, not quiet believing he was making a deal over his son, but he desperately wanted Xavier gone and knew how much April did too.

“$75,” Xavier said. “Surely you’re precious little Finn is worth that?”

“I’ll give you $65 and not a cent more.” James exhaled, not quiet believing Xavier was changing his mind so easily at the first offer of some money for them to back off.

Xavier pursed his pursed, looking like he was really considering his offer. “Okay. 65 grand,” Xavier exhaled. “And I guess these papers you want me to sign are adoption papers?” Xavier said. “You want me to sign away all my rights, right?”

“Yeah,” James nodded. “I’ve already got papers.”

“Of course you have,” Xavier exhaled. “But I’m not signing over anything till I get the money,” Xavier told him. “We still got our deal?” Xavier questioned, James seeing him looking rather smug.

“I’ll meet you again here at 2.” James told him before walking away, not sure if April was going to find out the truth or not when he was going to tell her Xavier was leaving town.

******

Kaya skipped excitedly down to the back of the pet store as Heath and Bianca walked down after her. “Sure you are okay with this?” Heath questioned.

“Well you went and promised her, didn’t you?” Bianca exhaled. “I can’t be the horrible parent depriving my daughter of a pet,” Bianca sighed. “But you mr are the one who is going to be cleaning it out and looking after it when she loses interest.”

“It’s not like she’s 3,” Heath replied. “She’s almost 8. I think that’s the perfect age for her to be getting a bunny,” Heath said. “It can teach her responsibility without too much work like a kitten or puppy would be.”

“A puppy,” Kaya gasped, having overheard Heath. “Am I getting a puppy too?”

“No no,” Bianca shook her head. “You can have a rabbit right now,” Bianca told her. “We’ll see how you do with her and then maybe 2 or 3 years down the line we can get a dog.” Bianca spoke through gritted teeth, Bianca more of a cat person but her daughter and Heath very much loving dogs over cats.

“Eeeee,” Kaya jumped around excitedly. “Can I get two rabbits?” Kaya wondered. “A boy one and a girl one and they can be married and have lots of rabbit babies.”

“No,” Bianca answered curtly. “Just the one rabbit will do us good.”

Kaya frowned as she looked into the hutch where 3 baby rabbits were. One mostly white with tan brown markings, one a silverish grey in colour and the third all black with floppy ears. “Can I pick one up?” Kaya questioned, shaking in anticipation.

“Sure,” Heath ran his hand through her hair. “Which one do you like?”

“This one,” Kaya leaned down and lifted up the little black rabbit, cuddling it close to her, stroking it gently. “She’s cute.” Kaya beamed, smiling down at the bunny.

“Mummy and Daddy getting you a late Christmas pressie?” Everyone looked round as they heard a voice.

“Daddy is just on the soft,” Bianca said, hitting Heath’s arm as she spoke, looking to the assistant in the pet shop. “I think she’d like this one.” Bianca said.

“She is a girl right?” Kaya exhaled. “I want a girl bunny.”

“She is,” The lady answered. “You have a name picked out for her yet?”

“Bella,” Kaya grinned. “I like her floppy ears.” Kaya giggled as the ears flopped down at the sides of her face.

“Yeah,” The lady laughed. “Well how about I leave you here to bond with Bella and I take mummy and daddy with me to get a hutch, food and such?” The lady questioned and Kaya nodded, her gaze not leaving Bella and the lady walked away with Bianca and Heath, talking over how to care for a rabbit with them as they walked up the shop to get the rest of the things they needed.

******

Charlie and Georgia were out doing some shopping, the boys off having a boys’ day surfing. Georgia was walking around the shop pointing out all the dresses she wanted. All the kids had been given vouchers for a clothing store for their Christmas from Charlie’s aunt who lived in Perth. She’d never met any of the children or even seen Charlie for about 15 years, but she always send something at Christmas and for Birthdays. “Like this one too.” Georgia pulled at a dress from the rail. It was white with little red polka dots on it. She tried to pull it from the rail but couldn’t reach the hanger.

“That’s not your size honeybee,” Charlie said, moving Georgia’s hand from the 9-12 month sized dress and took the 2-3 years dress from the hanger and held it out in front of Georgia. “This one is though. You like it?” Charlie questioned and Georgia nodded as she stared down at it.

“I carry it.” Georgia grinned taking the dress for her mother and carrying it proudly around the shop as Charlie kept hold of the other two dresses Georgia had already picked out.

“How about we get you some t-shirts or a skirt or shorts too?” Charlie questioned, not really wanting to spend all the money on just dresses for her daughter. “Or some new jammies?”

“Uhm....” Georgia scratched the side of her head as she looked to her mother.

“Some jammies,” Georgia answered, giving a little jump. Charlie smiled down at her daughter before looking to the rack of clothes for newborn babies. She picked up a little baby grow, smiling at the thought of having another baby. “Mummy,” Georgia pulled on Charlie’s skirt. “That no fit me.” Georgia shook her head.

“It’s not for you.” Charlie answered, keeping a hold of the baby grow as they walked over to the pyjama section of the store so Georgia could pick out a pair of new pyjamas.

[Danni02]

Thanks

ninety-six

“Mummy we are home,” Kobe ran into the house with Daniel and Brax following after him. “Mummy.” Kobe shrieked.

“Shhh buddy,” Charlie appeared from the stairway. “Georgia is having a nap,” Charlie said, it not often Georgia would nap through the day these days but the shopping trip seemed to have tired her out. “How was surfing?”

“Good.” Kobe questioned.

“Mum can Kobe and I go out on the skateboards?” Daniel questioned. Charlie gave a little nod, the boys cheering before they ran off back outside to play on their skateboards. Charlie glanced at Brax before walking through to the kitchen as he followed after her.

“Leah is going to come around and watch the kids tonight,” Brax said. “I’ve booked us a dinner at the seafood joint in Reefton Lakes.”

Charlie gagged at the mention of seafood. “I don’t want seafood.”

“Babe,” Brax sighed. “Don’t still be pissed. I know I angered you but I thought we were okay again?”

“We are fine,” Charlie sighed. “I just don’t feel like seafood,” Charlie said. “Maybe you could change it to the Italian?” Charlie questioned. “It would be nice for us to go out just the two of us.”

“Okay,” Brax smiled. “I’ll just change the booking,” Brax said, watching as Charlie filled the kettle. “So, Georgia get lots of dresses I bet?” Brax questioned, knowing his little girl all too well.

“Yeah,” Charlie answered. “She got some new fairy pyjamas and a pair of shorts too though,” Charlie answered. “Oh and some cute little sandals.” Charlie said, seeing Brax had noticed the little parcel on the table.

“What’s that?” Brax questioned.

“Oh it’s for you,” Charlie said walking over to the table and picking up the parcel before walking back over to Brax. “I’m making a tea. Do you want one?” Charlie questioned. She was trying to stay calm and collected but inside she was bubbling over.

“Nah, I’m good,” Brax answered staring down at the parcel as Charlie handed it out to him. “So I anger you yet you buy me a present?” Brax looked a little puzzled.

“Just a little something from our shopping trip,” Charlie said, a grin etching on her face as her heart started beating faster, not able to wait any longer for Brax to open the gift. “Open it.” Charlie instructed as she lightly hit his chest.

Brax pulled at the paper, letting it fall to the floor as he took out the little yellow baby grow. He widened his eyes as he glanced at Charlie before looking back to the baby grow reading the white writing. I’m cute....Mummy’s gorgeous....Daddy’s lucky. Brax gave a little laugh before looking back to his wife, Charlie seeing he was shaking a little. “Are you.....does this mean?”

“I’m pregnant.” Charlie grinned.

“For real?” Brax beamed. “You’ve took a test and everything?”

“Uh-huh,” Charlie answered. “I’m pregnant, Brax. We are having another baby.” Charlie said and Brax let out an involuntary squeal as he picked Charlie up and span her around excitedly.

******

James walked into the house, finding April sitting over the play mat where their baby son lay. “Where’s little dude?” James questioned, pulling a face at Leo as he rubbed his cheek, Leo making a little noise as he tried to stare at his father.

“Grams took him out for ice-cream,” April answered. “Where have you been?”

“I ran into Xavier,” James cleared his throat, pulling his bag a little closer to him as he avoided April’s question. “He’s going back to Melbourne,” James told her, April widening her eyes in shock. “He’s uhm.....he gave me these.” James said as he pulled out the adoption papers from the bag and handed them to April.

“I don’t understand.” April looked really confused.

“Well they are adoption papers,” James exhaled. “He’s signed his rights away,” James grinned. “I can adopt little dude.”

“I know what the papers are,” April put them down to the floor as she glared at James. “I just don’t understand why he’s all of a sudden changed his mind,” April looked puzzled. “He was adamant he was going to get joint custody only yesterday,” April scrunched her face. “And today he’s signing over any rights to you and saying he off to Melbourne again,” April shook her head. “What happened? It doesn’t make sense.”

James gave a little shrug. “Maybe he just realised Finn was better off with me.”

“No,” April shook her head. “It doesn’t make sense to me, Jay.”

“What does it matter?” James questioned. “You’ve got what you wanted. Xavier is going back to Melbourne and you are not going to lose any time with your son,” James told her, leaning forward and rubbing her upper arm. “It’s all that’s important, right?”

“Well yeah, but,” April was stuck for words. “I....” She shook her head. “Doesn’t it seem strange to you?” April questioned.

“It’s Xavier,” James shrugged. “He’s never been around for the kid. He’s said before he wants to see him then nothing ever came of it,” James exhaled. “Seems normal Xavier to me.”

“Maybe,” April didn’t sound so sure. She glanced down to Leo before looking back to James. “I’m just going to the bathroom.” April said as she stood up and left the room. James watched her leave before looking to his youngest.

“Don’t give daddy that look,” James said, pulling Leo closer to him. “I know I have to tell mummy because it’s only a matter of time before she sees the money missing from our account but I just need a little more time to get myself ready.” James said, taking a deep breath, not looking forward to April’s reaction after he told her what he done to get Xavier to leave.

******

Bella’s hutch was put in the garage. Kaya at first had insisted it go in her room but Bianca had put her foot down, saying it was the garage or going back to the pet store. She didn’t want Kaya being distracted by the bunny when she was trying to sleep. Bella was going to be an indoor bunny, Bianca having no problems with the rabbit being in the house through the day but at night time they’d take it to the garage. “Daddy you should have a cuddle with our new bunny,” Kaya said, handing Bella out. Heath took the bunny into his arms and took a seat on the couch, stroking the soft furs of the bunny gently. “My friend Saffron will be jealous,” Kaya said, sitting up on the couch next to Heath. “She’s wanted a bunny for ages.”

“Ah well you’ll need to let her come play with Bella huh?” Heath questioned.

“Yeah,” Kaya answered. “But she’s got 2 dogs, 5 fish and a guinea pig already,” Kaya said as she patted Bella too. “That’s enough animals eh?”

“It’s a lot anyways.” Heath nodded in response.

“Here’s your drink sweetie.” Bianca walked through from the kitchen, handing the glass of apple juice to Kaya.

“Thanks.” Kaya gave her mother a sweet smile before taking a drink.

“Eugh,” Heath jumped up from the couch, holding the rabbit out in front of him. “She pooped on me.”

Kaya burst into hysterics as Heath put the bunny on the floor, Bella hopping off to explore her home. Kaya put her juice down on the coffee table before going after Bella. “Might want to get used to things pooping on you,” Bianca laughed as she stood up from the arm chair. “If you can’t deal with a little rabbit poop then you are in for a rude awaking when it comes to baby’s smelly nappies.” Bianca said as she walked over to Heath.

“Well good job you are here to deal with that.” Heath grinned as he wrapped his arms around her waist before they shared a kiss.

[Danni02]

Thanks

ninety-seven

Charlie and Brax were at the Italian in Reefton Lakes. “Are you really sure?” Brax questioned as the waiter walked away after they’d ordered.

Charlie exhaled as she glanced at her husband, knowing he was back to talking about the baby. “Yes,” Charlie answered. “I took a test this morning. I’ve told you this already.”

“But like what made you take the test?” Brax questioned. “As far as I am aware you’ve not been sick at all and you’re not due yet, are you?”

“I just woke up with this feeling,” Charlie gave a little shrug. “You and the boys were already out surfing otherwise you would have been with me,” Charlie told him. “But then I thought it would have been nice to tell you in a different way,” Charlie smiled as Brax reached forward and took her hand in his, rubbing it gently. “I have to be really early on so we need to be relaxed and not get too excited.” Charlie told him before taking a drink of her water.

“Right yeah.” Brax gave a little nod.

“I mean really early on,” Charlie swallowed. “I don’t think I can be much over a week.”

“You can find out that early?” Brax raised his eyebrows, a little surprised.

“Well normally most people don’t but we’ve been trying and like I said I just got this feeling,” Charlie gave a little smile as her hand brushed over her stomach. “But you are happy, right?”

“I’m ecstatic,” Brax beamed. “Aren’t you happy?” Brax questioned, giving her a little confused look. Charlie pursed her lips as she gave a little nod.

“I....” Charlie exhaled. “I don’t want to get to excited just yet. It’s so early and after my last pregnancy went wrong, I....” Charlie gave a little shrug.

“Well don’t worry yourself too much either,” Brax told her. “Let’s just be normal,” Brax exhaled. “We are just husband and wife enjoying a night out away from the kids,” Brax said and Charlie gave a little smile as she nodded. “You call Ruby today?”

Charlie gave a little nod. “He’s still in the coma,” Charlie answered. “She could be there a while,” Charlie said. “You know if,” Charlie hesitated. “When he does wake up he might need rehabilitation or whatever. I don’t expect he’ll just be out of hospital as soon as.” Charlie said.

“Yeah,” Brax nodded. “Well the good thing about this situation is that she’s getting to know her prospective mother in law,” Brax said before taking a drink of his beer. “It will be nice to for them to spend time together.”

“Yeah,” Charlie nodded. “I just hope it’s not too long,” Charlie exhaled. “I mean, well hopefully Evan makes a good recovery and they can come home. She may be coming up for 21 but she’s still my baby girl,” Charlie said. “I miss her.”

“And she’s only been gone a few days,” Brax gave a little laugh. “But maybe you’re just extra motherly right now.” Brax grinned glancing down toward her stomach.

“No we are not telling them for a while yet,” Charlie said, seeing the look on her husband’s face. “It’s way too early.” Brax gave a sad pout, knowing deep down that Charlie was right but he just wanted to shout it from the roof tops but knew of course it wasn’t the right time but he already couldn’t wait to meet his new baby.

******

Bianca walked into Kaya’s bedroom, looking around to see if she could see Bella. “Where is she?” Bianca questioned.

“Who?” Kaya tried to play dumb as she lay in her bed.

“You know exactly who,” Bianca answered. “Bella’s not in her hutch.”

Kaya widened her eyes, looking alarmed that she’d been found out. Bianca glanced to the bed as she saw some movement from under the covers. “Sweetie,” Bianca exhaled as she pulled the covers back. “You can’t sleep with your bunny.” Bianca stifled a laugh as she picked the rabbit up, Bella cuddling into her.

“Why?” Kaya questioned.

“Because you can’t,” Bianca answered. “Rabbits need to sleep in their own hutches,” Bianca told her. “You’ve played with Bella all day and now it’s time for her to get some rest from you,” Bianca said. “You get a good night’s sleep then you can see her again in the morning.”

Kaya frowned sadly. “What if she gets scared?”

“She won’t,” Bianca laughed lightly. “Give her one last clap.” Bianca said and Kaya sighed as she sat up in her bed and leaned over to her mother and patted the bunny.

“Well I think it would be nice.” Kaya muttered.

“She’s a rabbit,” Bianca told her daughter. “She likes to sleep in her shavings in her hutch not in beds,” Bianca said and Kaya scowled before she lay back down in her bed. “Goodnight darling.” Bianca leaned down and kissed her daughters forehead before she left the room, taking Bella back to her hutch.

******

April lay Leo down in his moses basket before walking over to the bed and slipping in next to James. “You okay?” April questioned.

“Yeah I’m good,” James answered. “Why?”

“You’ve just been really quiet since you came home,” April exhaled. “So,” April pursed her lips. “Is it because I said I didn’t think you needed to adopt Finn?” April questioned, April and James having had further discussions about Xavier having left but James not yet telling her about the real reason he left.

James gave a little shrug. “I just thought that you’d like us to become official you know,” James bowed his head sadly. “Like proper father and son.”

“You are already,” April shuffled to the side so she was closer to James. “Babe you don’t need a piece of paper telling you that you are his father,” April spoke softly as she rubbed his arm. “In his eyes you are the greatest daddy ever.”

“I know but,” James pursed his lips. “It just.....I....we are getting married, we have Leo, I....I just thought....” James trailed off. “Well never mind because you said no.”

April sucked in her bottom lip as she continued to rub his arm. “I never said no,” April sighed. “I just said that I didn’t think we needed a piece of paper to make you his father.”

“It’s not just that,” James retorted. “You...heaven forbid if anything was to happen to you this would mean.....well right now Finn could get taken from me because I am not family and then.....” James shook his head. He couldn’t contemplate a life without Finn or of course April. “I couldn’t -”

“What you talking about?” April said. “Babe nothing will happen to me.”

“We don’t know that,” James exhaled. “And I just wanted to ensure that little dude would still get to be with me. With the man he knows as daddy.”

“He would,” April exhaled. “They wouldn’t just take him from his home and besides it’s in my will that he’s with you and it’s not like Bianca would take him from you.”

“I didn’t think she would.” James said, April nodding, knowing fine well who he was talking about.

“Well he’s gone a buggered off back to Melbourne anyways so God knows if he’d even surface again.” April said, James seeing she was still rather confused over why Xavier left.

“Yeah,” James exhaled. He was feeling more and more guilty and regretting what he did as the night had gone on. “Anyways, I uhm...I’m going to sleep.” James told her before he lay down and turned his back to her, April sighing lightly, thinking she’d made him upset but he was only mad at himself for what he’d done and was scared to tell April the truth in fear of losing the family he was only trying to keep together.

[Danni02]

Thanks

ninety-eight

“Jay,” April shouted to him from through the room. “James.” April said, looking around to the doorway.

“What?” James walked into the room holding a freshly changed Leo in his arms.

“You want me too?” Finn said, bounding in after James.

“No,” April smiled down to her son. “You go play,” April said and Finn gave her a little pout before running off out of the kitchen back to the living room. “Have you moved some money around?” April questioned and James widened his eyes in alarm as he shook his head, knowing now was the time he was going to have to come clean.

“Uhm,” James looked down to Leo who was drifting off to sleep in his arms before looking back to April. “Okay, so, listen,” James sat down at the table next to April. He glanced at the computer screen, April having their accounts up online. They still had a lot of money from Derek and of course it just kept gaining interest as it sat in the bank. James took a deep breath, before his lips pursed. “So the thing is, I....” James paused.

“What is it Jay?” April questioned.

“Oh God,” James murmured. “Okay so please don’t get mad. I was just doing what I thought was right. I was just trying to keep our family together to keep little dude with us.” James started to ramble and April looked very confused.

“Jay,” April spoke over him. “Just.....what is it?”

“I uhm....I paid him off,” James spoke quietly. “Xavier. I....I gave him money and told him to leave.”

“You what?” April seethed as she shot up from the chair, standing over James. “You offered him money for our son?” April questioned. “You paid for our son?” April sounded very angry.

“I...I was just trying to keep him with us all the time,” James answered. “I could see how much it was killing you to think about letting Xavier have access and I -”

“You complete idiot,” April slapped his arm, hard. “You bribed a police officer?” April hit him again. “We really will lose Finn now.” April spat.

“But he’s gone,” James exhaled. “It worked the way we wanted. He -”

“I didn’t want that,” April’s voice went higher and a little squeaky. “How do you know he’s gone back to Melbourne?” April questioned. “He could be letting the courts or the cops know what you did,” April said. “Didn’t you think about this at all?” April sighed, her hand running through her hair in exasperation. “We could lose him.” April seethed, her head shaking at James’ stupidity.

“We won’t,” James exhaled. “Hun just -”

“Give me Leo,” April said, taking her son from him, holding him close to her as she rubbed his back. “Finn,” April shouted through to her son. “Finn sweetie.”

“April, what are you doing?” James followed as April as she walked out of the kitchen and put Leo down in his pram.

“Finn.” April shouted again as she looked to the living room.

“Mummy,” Finn ran down the hall. “I was playing.”

“Well we are going to go for a walk instead, okay?” April told him, Finn nodding as he ran forward and put his hand on the metal bar of the pram.

“C’mon daddy.” Finn held his hand out for James to take.

James looked to April before starting to walk forward. “Daddy’s not coming.” April said, James bowing his head as he stopped walking. April shook her head at him before walking out of the house with the boys, needing some time away from James.

******

Charlie and the kids were halfway through dinner when Brax walked into the kitchen. “You missed dinner.” Kobe said, bolognaise sauce all around his mouth.

“I’ve eaten mate.” Brax said, Charlie looking to him, wondering where he’d eaten.

“Where?” Charlie questioned.

“I ran into Terese when I was at the hardware store. She was having trouble with her kitchen sink so I offered to help her,” Brax answered. “She made me dinner as a thank you.”

“Who the hell is Terese?” Charlie asked, her face scrunching in confusion.

“Eli’s mum,” Brax answered. “He ran up to me in the store, starting talking away,” Brax said, Brax looking a confused. Eli didn’t really talk much to him when he was staying with them, Brax thinking he didn’t like him much.

“Right, I see,” Charlie gave a little nod. “Well that was nice of her I guess.” Charlie murmured, her face screwing a little.

“I didn’t manage to fix it properly though,” Brax said. “What I did will hold till tomorrow.” Brax sat down at the table and took a piece of garlic bread from the plate in the centre.

“Until she gets a plumber?” Daniel questioned. “She should get a plumber.”

“Nah mate I’ll fix it properly for her,” Brax looked to his son as he spoke. “Going to go around tomorrow.”

“I’ve the doctors tomorrow.” Charlie said before taking a drink of her water.

“Oh mummy are you sick?” Kobe looked to her, looking rather alarmed.

“No no,” Charlie shook her head. “Mummy’s just getting a check-up. Need to make sure everything is still good with me, huh?”

“Yeah.” Georgia answered as she slurped up some spaghetti, her whole face covered in the bolognaise sauce.

“Don’t worry I won’t miss the appointment,” Brax told her, knowing she was going in to see about her pregnancy. “Eli was asking about all you guys though,” Brax said as he took a bite of the garlic bread. “Maybe you can have a play date?”

“No,” Daniel scrunched his face. “He was a little brat.”

“Daniel,” Brax exhaled as he looked to his son. “That’s not very nice, is it?”

“It’s true,” Daniel told his father. “I don’t want to play with him again and besides he’s only 4 and I am nearly 10. He’s too little to play with me.”

“I don’t want to either.” Kobe said. Brax looked to Georgia for her opinion but she was too busy with her spaghetti to give him an answer.

“Oh well I am going around there tomorrow so if any of you change your mind you can come with me while I fix the sink,” Brax said before he stood up from the table. “Anyways I got a little sink gunk on me when I trying to fix the sink so I’m going to go for a shower.” Brax said before making an exit from the room.

******

Heath found Bianca in the garage, looking at box of Kaya’s old baby clothes. “You nesting already?” Heath chuckled as he wrapped his arms around her from behind and softly kissed her neck.

“Just looking,” Bianca answered, her hand running over a little yellow sundress. “God I can remember Kaya being this little like it was just yesterday,” Bianca smiled fondly. “They grow up to fast.”

“Well we’ll just have to breed an army of mini Braxton Scott’s.” Heath said, his hand gently rubbing over her stomach.

“Nah nah,” Bianca shook her head as she turned to face him, her arms going around his neck. “I’m not popping an army out of there.” Bianca said as she looked downwards.

Heath gave a little laugh as he tucked her hair behind her ear. “Maybe you are right. We should see how I do with this one first huh?”

“I know you’ll be great,” Bianca answered. “You show me that with how you are with Kaya.”

Heath gave her a thankful smile. “Well she makes it easy to be a parent.”

“That wasn’t always the case,” Bianca laughed. “She could be a right little sassy when she was younger,” Bianca exhaled. “But I’m sure because this kid is half Braxton she’s going to have that sass anyways.” Bianca gave a cheeky grin and Heath gasped, mocking offence.

“Cheeky,” Heath said as he pinched her bum cheek, Bianca giving a girly squeal as she slapped his chest. Heath laughed before placing a soft kiss on Bianca’s lips. “Where’s Kaya?”

“She’s staying over at Cassie’s house tonight.” Bianca answered, her eyebrows rising seductively.

“Oh she is?” Heath questioned, his hands now caressing Bianca’s back. Bianca gave a little nod as Heath’s lips smacked against hers. She smiled into the kiss, letting it deep as Heath lifted Bianca up, Bianca’s legs wrapping around his waist as he put her on the bench in the garage.

“Mmmm.” Bianca moaned into the kiss as she pulled Heath’s t-shirt from his body, Heath pulling at Bianca’s top, getting it un-tucked from her skirt as the kiss grew in passion and want.

[Danni02]

Thanks

ninety-nine

April had come home, fed the boys, played with Finn while Leo was napping, bathed both the boys and had put Finn to bed and James was yet to return home. When they’d came home James wasn’t in. She tried to call him but his phone was switched off, which April had found weird. He never switched his phone off. “Where’s this silly daddy of yours hmm?” April questioned as she was gently rocking on the rocking chair as Leo took a feed. “Mummy is very mad at him but she’d like him to come home, she would,” April pursed her lips, glancing to her phone for a moment, her phone being on the bedside table. “Maybe it’s just because I want to yell and him some more, I’m not sure but he just needs to come home huh?” April exhaled before her head shot up as she heard the door. “Jay?” April shouted as she stood up and walked out of the room. “James.” April said.

“It’s me darling,” April heard Olive’s voice. April exhaled lightly as she smiled at James’ grandmother. “How you doing?”

“I’m....” April shook her head. “Where is he?”

“He’s gone to Adelaide.” Olive said, April widening her eyes in shock.

“He’s what?” April raised her voice.

“He’s giving you some time to calm down,” Olive told her. “Gone to see Evan. Show some support to Rubes and Josie.”

“But he.....” April glanced down to Leo who was still feeding. “He can’t just leave like that,” April sighed. “We’re in the middle of a......” April shook her head as she stopped talking.

“Look April,” Olive spoke softly. “He was just trying to do the right thing.”

“I know but it was stupid and you know not only has he taken a large sum of our money without saying anything to me about it he’s gone and....well what if Xavier uses this as a way to get Finn?” April sounded like she was going to tear up. “It was just really stupid.”

“Well yes but his heart was in the right place,” Olive stepped forward and gently rubbed April’s arm. “He was just trying to keep Finn from finding out the truth. It would break his heart if Finn started seeing someone else as his daddy.”

“I know it would,” April exhaled. “And I don’t want that either. I hate Xavier and I don’t want him being in Finn’s life but what Jay did, it wasn’t the way to deal with it.”

“Well engagement and two young kids aside you two are still very young,” Olive said. “People make silly decisions but like I said his heart was in the right place. I’m sure his heart is always in the right place.”

“That’s all very well but it’s not going to change the fact that Xavier could gain some custody because of this,” April said. “Do you believe he’s just gone off back to Melbourne, dropping this again?”

“Wouldn’t surprise me,” Olive answered. “He’s never really been that serious when it comes too little Finn, has he?” Olive questioned. “And $65 grand would set him and his partner up pretty nicely. April pursed her lips as she looked down to Leo who had stopped taking milk from his mother.

“I’m going to settle him,” April said. “Stick around. I’ll make you a coffee and we can talk some more.”

“How about I make the coffees while you settle him?” Olive questioned and April gave a little nod before she walked off back up the stairs as

Olive went into the kitchen to make some drinks.

******

Brax walked back into the house, shouting out for Charlie but getting no reply. “Babe,” Brax shouted as he walked up the stairs. “I am so sorry. I just lost track of time.” Brax walked into the bedroom as Charlie appeared out of the en-suite.

“Where were you?” Charlie questioned.

“Fixing Terese’s sink,” Brax said. “I really am sorry. I just lost track of time and I came to the hospital, I really did but they said you’d just left.” Brax looked bad that he’d missed the first appointment.

“Whatever it’s fine.” Charlie mumbled as she gave a little shrug

“It’s not,” Brax sighed. “I should have been there and I am sorry.” Brax walked over to her and took her hand into his, rubbing it gently.

“It’s fine,” Charlie pulled her hand away. “I am pregnant. Will be two weeks on Thursday,” Charlie told him, Charlie being very early in her pregnancy like she first thought. “They gave me a picture but there’s nothing really to see,” Charlie said, pulling her hand away, of course being a little mad that Brax hadn’t made the appointment as promised. “So, you get Terese’s sink fixed?” Charlie questioned, her arms crossing across her chest.

“Yeah,” Brax nodded. “She’s got a few other problems going in her place though,” Brax said. “I told her I come and look at them the next time I got a chance.”

“Why?” Charlie questioned. “You are not her handyman.”

“Well no but she’s a single mother and it’s always nice to help.” Brax answered, not really seeing what the big deal was in helping Terese out.

“Right then,” Charlie exhaled. “Well I’m going to make a start to lunch.” Charlie murmured, making an exit from the room, Brax exhaling lightly, knowing all too well that Charlie was annoyed that he’d missed her hospital appointment.

******

Ruby was sitting by Evan’s bedside. She was lightly stroking her hand over his, thinking about what she’d do if he didn’t pull through. She knew now there was no way she’d be able to cope if she lost Evan too. “This muppet still taking a rest?” Ruby looked around, surprised to hear James’ voice.

“Jay,” Ruby gasped as she stood up and gave him a hug, James giving Ruby an extra tight squeeze, knowing she’d need extra comfort right now. “What are....why.....what?” Ruby was really surprised to see him standing before her.

“I just thought I’d come and see how my little brother was doing.” James answered, looking down to Evan who looked really peaceful as he lay there.

Ruby felt a little confused. “Oh,” Ruby rubbed the back of her head. “Well there’s not been much improvement since we last spoke to you,” Ruby told him. “The swelling is taking a while to reduce,” Ruby said, looking worried for her boyfriend. “But I...is April and the boys here too?”

“Nah nah just me eh,” James answered. “Flew out last night. Stayed at the airport and now here I am today,” James said. “So he’s not shown any signs at all of waking?”

“Well he’s in an induce coma,” Ruby shrugged. “I think they can wake him up but they need the swelling to reduce more first,” Ruby scrunched her face. She wasn’t that sure of what she was saying. “Over the first couple of days it did reduce but now it’s seems to be sticking where it’s at,” Ruby said, glancing to her boyfriend. “I....April said it was okay for you to come here?” Ruby questioned, finding it odd he’d want to come given Leo was only a month old. Of course Evan was his brother, well at least, half brother but they’d hardly been close forever. They’d only known each other around 8 months and even then James didn’t want much to do with him for the first couple.

“Uhm, yeah sure.” James answered quietly, knowing he’d eventually tell Ruby about what was going on with him and April but knew right now wasn’t the time, right now was time to be there to show support for Ruby and hope that Evan would make a full recovery from this.

[Danni02]

Thanks

one hundred

Josie had said James could stay at the house as long as he wanted. Ruby and James were in the living room, sitting on the couch, the pair having a drink together after Josie had gone to bed. James had been looking at the family photo albums, seeing what his brother was like when he was younger. “Ahh,” James sighed as he closed the photo album and threw it down to the floor. “To many pictures of Derek playing the doting father,” James rolled his eyes before taking a drink of his beer. “He’ll be alright you know,” James said. “He’ll wake eventually.”

“Mmm,” Ruby nodded. “So, what’s happened with you April?”

“Nothing,” James pulled at the label on his beer bottle before he exhaled lightly, seeing the look on Ruby’s face. Ruby wasn’t stupid and she knew James. She knew something was on his mind other than his brother. “Okay so I paid Xavier off so he would leave us and Finn alone.”

“Jay,” Ruby screeched as she slapped his arm. “What a silly thing to do. What were you thinking?”

“I know,” James sighed. “And clearly I wasn’t thinking,” James said. “Well I was. I was thinking that I didn’t want him coming in now and being Finn’s father. I’ve been there for Finn, I’ve been daddy all his life and I....maybe I was being selfish but I wanted to keep being Finn’s father and the only father in his life.”

“I get that. I really do,” Ruby spoke softly. “But,” She pursed her lips, talking tentatively. “You can’t stop him from seeing his son.”

“Clearly money is more important to him,” James retorted. “He’s taken the money and gone and I....well April wasn’t best pleased. She’s thinks that I’ve paid for our son and that Xavier could still use this against us to get custody of little dude.”

“Well he could,” Ruby answered. “He probably won’t but it’s still possible.”

“I just wanted to keep her happy. She didn’t want Xavier being in Finn’s life and I....I was just trying to do what I thought she wanted,” James bowed his head. “I knew instantly paying Xavier off wouldn’t have been the way to deal with it but it was too late. He had the money, he’d walked off. I could hardly take it back now,” James murmured. “I just need to focus on April forgiving me. She will forgive me, wont she?”

“She loves you and she’s just had your baby.” Ruby said, also pulling at the label on her bottle of beer.

“That’s not really an answer.” James exhaled, sounding worried.

“I can’t really give you an answer,” Ruby pursed her lips. “It will probably just take a while.” Ruby told him, James sighing lightly but not being surprised, knowing April had every right to be mad with him, giving Xavier could still potentially want custody of Finn.

******

Brax walked into the en-suite, watching as Charlie spit her toothpaste into the sink. He walked over to her and wrapped his arms around her from behind, placing a soft kiss on the crook of her neck. “Nope.” Charlie shook her head as she moved away from his grasp.

“Baby,” Brax murmured. “Just because we are already pregnant it doesn’t mean we have to stop having sex.”

“First of all, I’m pregnant. There’s no ‘we’ about it,” Charlie said, turning to face him. “And we don’t need to have sex every night.” Charlie muttered as she walked out of the bathroom, Brax’s head bowing a little as he followed her out to the bedroom.

“I know we don’t,” Brax sighed lightly as he pulled back the covers on the bed. “But we haven’t actually done it for a couple...you know we’ve not actually celebrated the baby yet.”

“Maybe if you cared to show up for the hospital appointment today.” Charlie muttered as she got into the bed.

Brax sighed, his eyes rolling. “I’ve apologized more than once for that already,” Brax exhaled. “I just lost track of time.”

“You were at another woman’s house.” Charlie retorted.

“Terese’s,” Brax’s voice got a little squeaky. “I was just being helpful. She needs stuff doing, there’s no man around,” Brax sighed. “She obviously doesn’t have many friends here. Maybe we can be her friends, be someone who can help out with Eli because he can be a little bit of a handful. What’s so wrong with wanting helping her out?”

“Nothing,” Charlie answered. “But you should have been elsewhere,” Charlie said. “You were the one who wanted this baby so -”

“What so you didn’t?” Brax interrupted her.

“No, I...,” Charlie shook her head. “I mean yes I wanted this baby too but you.....” Charlie sucked in her bottom lip. “You miss another scan or the birth then....”Charlie trailed off, her head shaking.

“I won’t. I swear,” Brax told her, leaning closer to her and rubbing her arm. “I really did just lose track of time.”

Charlie pursed her lips, her head shaking lightly. “Don’t let it happen again.”

“I swear,” Brax said his hand cupping her cheek as he leaned in and softly kissed her lips. “Never again,” Brax said before placing another kiss on her lips, Charlie smiling into this one, letting it deepen. “So I’m forgiven?” Brax murmured between kisses.

“Mmm,” Charlie nodded as she pulled back. “Still doesn’t mean we are going to have sex though.” Charlie whispered before pulling away and lying down to sleep. Brax exhaled lightly before he too lay down, closing his eyes to sleep.

******

Bianca walked out of the bathroom and back into the living room to join April and the kids again. She smiled as she watched Finn clapping Bella and Kaya stayed close, like she was supervising him. “You alright?” April questioned as she looked to her sister as she glanced into the pram, checking on a sleeping Leo.

“Me? I’m fine,” Bianca answered. “Why?”

“You look a little flushed,” April said, still staring up at her sister as she took her seat back on the couch. “Maybe peaky....I dunno, just not right.”

“I’m fine.” Bianca answered.

“She’s sick lots now,” Kaya looked up to her auntie as she spoke. “I hear her in the mornings,” Kaya pulled a face. “It’s gross.”

“In the mornings huh?” April raised her eyebrows as she looked back to Bianca. “Well peppermint tea as gross as it tasted helped me with my sickness for a while.”April said, Bianca giving her sister a thankful smile, knowing April had worked it out but wasn’t saying anything in front of Kaya.

“Thanks, I’ll keep that in mind,” Bianca said, before reaching forward and taking a drink of her iced tea. “So, you heard from James?”

“Uh-uh,” April shook her head. “I think we’d make things worse if we talked right now so it’s probably for the best,” April exhaled, glancing at her son who was grinning widely as he clapped Bella. She smiled before looking back to her sister. “Let him see Evan and deal with that for a while.”

“And what?” Bianca questioned. “Leave you to deal with the boys on your own?”

“I’ve been a single mother before.” April murmured.

“To one kid,” Bianca told her. “Now you have a toddler and a newborn,” Bianca said. “Just....I get he needs to go see his brother but he should have sorted things with you before leaving.”

“Yeah well he didn’t so,” April gave a little shrug. “Anyways I’m not going to talk about it in front of...” April trailed off as she looked to Finn. “So let’s change the subject hmmm?” April said, Bianca giving a little nod before taking another drink.