Rush Fanfic 3 - Page 2

06/07/12

Part 515

“Right, presents” Lawson said rubbing his hands together.

Kyle’s smile widened and turning to where Lawson had stopped he looked at the two packages on the coffee table.

Grabbing the first one he opened the card and looking at Josh and Kristy he said “thanks guys.”

“Don’t thank us yet” Josh teased “you haven’t opened it yet.”

Kyle laughed and unwrapped the present. Inside was a footy jumper for the team he followed and a wii game.

“Thanks” Kyle said trying not to look disappointed. They didn’t have a wii.

“You have a wii right?” Josh said.

“No, but that’s okay” he said.

“No problem” Kristy said “we’ll swap it over.”

“That’s okay” Trish said “you don’t need to do that.”

Kristy smiled at her “trust me it’s not a problem.”

Trish felt bad for them but she nodded.

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07/07/12

 

Part 516

Lawson handed his present over next.

Kyle read the card first and said “thanks Lawson.”

“You’re welcome mate” he said.

Kyle ripped off the paper and his eyes widened, as did his mothers.

Josh laughed “there you go, no need to change the game now.”

Inside the paper was a wii console and extra controller and a game.

“Awesome, thanks Lawson” Kyle said beaming at him.

“No worries” Lawson said pleased he was happy.

But as he looked over at Trish he was surprised by the look on her face. He frowned.

Trish just shook her head to indicate that they couldn’t discuss it now and looked away.

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08/07/12
 

Part 517 

       

Moving his attention back to Kyle, who was excitedly opening the box he watched with amusement as he pulled the console out and set it up. Tech savy, like most kids, Kyle had it working within minutes and while Josh, Kristy and Trish’s mum watched him play, Lawson followed Trish into the kitchen.

“What was that look about?” he asked as she began putting things in the oven.

“It’s too much” Trish said continuing to work and not meeting his eyes. “You shouldn’t have spent so much.”

“Why?” he said with a frown. “I can afford it.”

“That’s not the point” she said still not looking at him.

“So what is the point?” he said turning her to face him.

She sighed “nothing I guess” hating herself for making him feel bad.

“Clearly it’s not nothing, so tell me.”

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09/07/12
 

Part 518

Trish looked away and shrugged. “I’m his mother. I just would have liked to be able give him something like that.”

Enlightenment hit Lawson. His gift had outshone hers. He hadn’t thought of that, he just wanted to get something Kyle would like.
Pulling her into his arms he said “I’m sorry. I didn’t think.”

Trish wrapped her arms around him. She felt terrible now begrudging his generous gift. “No I’m sorry” she said. “I’m being stupid.”

“No” he said “it’s not stupid. I understand. I should have told you.”

She hugged him. “It’s a fantastic gift.”

“Yeah well you may have noticed there are two controllers, so it wasn’t purely selfless.”

She laughed. “It’s still fantastic and if we were alone, I’d show you how happy I am that you are part of my life, not only for me, but for Kyle too.”

Lawson’s eyes gleamed. “I’ll hold you to that.”

“Next time I have you to myself in a quiet place, you won’t be able to stop me” she said and giving him a quick kiss she turned back to the food.

Lawson grinned and giving her a wink, he walked back into the living room.

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10/07/12

Part 519

The rest of the evening passed pleasantly and Kyle went to bed a very happy eleven year old. “Can Lawson come in and say good night too” he asked as he finally headed to bed after everyone else had left.

“Of course” Trish said with a smile. It was the first time he’d asked that and she was pleased. “We’ll be in in a minute” she added.

Kyle smiled and walked out of the room.

As her son left Trish realised Lawson hadn’t said anything since Kyle had made his request. She turned to look at him. He was sitting staring straight ahead.

Trish frowned and said “Lawson?”

He didn’t respond.

She touched his arm and slowly he turned his head to face her. His expression told her nothing.

“I’m sorry” Trish said worried now that she’d done the wrong thing. Lawson looked like he was in a state of shock. “I should have asked if it was alright with you before I agreed. You don’t have to come in, he’ll understand.” She went to get up.

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11/07/12
 

Part 520

Lawson reached out and stopped her. He shook his head as he tried to pull himself together. “That’s not it” he said.

Trish studied him. She was confused.

“It just caught me off guard” he said. “I don’t know anything about this parenting stuff.”

Trish smiled. She said “well you’d never know. You’re a natural.”

He gave her a crooked smile “yeah?”

“Yes” she said and leaning over she kissed him.

 “I’m going need you to hold my hand” he teased as she moved back.

“I can do that” she said with a smile and held out her hand to him, palm up.

He placed his in hers and as their fingers entwined, they stood and walked into the bedroom to see Kyle.

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12/07/12
 

Part 521

That night as Josh and Kristy lay in bed, she said “so how are we going to organise this wedding?”

“Well I’d say the first thing we need to do is tell people” Josh teased.

Kristy smiled “very funny but I don’t think it’s going to be that easy. If I tell mum and dad you intend to pay for them, they won’t let you do it.”

“So tell them it’s my wedding present to you, they can’t argue with that.”

Kristy smiled “how did you get so smart?”

“Hanging around you” he teased. “Why do you think I’m marrying ya” he added with a wink.

She laughed and moving closer, between kisses to his throat and his jaw she said “and here I was it had something to do with this.”

Josh’s green eyes darkened and turning his head he said against her mouth “it had everything to do with you.”

Kristy shivered and deepened the kiss.

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14/07/12
 

Part 522

The next day Kristy began checking out weddings in Tahiti, what was required legally and how much it would cost. At the resort she liked the look of best she found they organised everything, from the ceremony to the guest travel arrangements and their accommodation. She showed Josh the site “what do you think?” she asked after he’d had a look.

“Looks good to me” he said “we just tell them a date and how many guests and they do the rest. I like the sound of that.”

“I know” Kristy said her eyes alight “it sounds perfect.”

Josh smiled and kissed her head “if you’re happy, I’m happy.”

She grinned “so when?” she asked.

“I don’t want to wait too long.”

“How about six months?” Kristy said.

“Six months?” Josh said his eyes widening. “That long?”

“We have to give people some notice” Kristy said.

Josh sighed “okay but that’s it, not one day longer.”

She grinned “I’ll email them now and see it they have a date available.”

He smiled “you do that. The sooner we get started the better.”

Kristy kissed him and then taking her laptop back sent off an email to Tahiti.

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15/07/12

 Part 523

The day after Kyle’s birthday, Lawson came over and took Kyle to his footy match and then as Trish requested he dropped him off at home but didn’t come in. She’d said she wanted to talk to Kyle and Lawson could guess why.

“Aren’t you coming in?” Kyle said.

“I’ve got some stuff to do” Lawson said “I’ll be back later this afternoon.”

“Okay” Kyle said with a smile and with a wave he got out of the car and ran inside.

Trish had worked early that day but was now finished. Hearing Kyle arrive back home from her seat at the kitchen bench she clasped her hands together to stop them shaking. She was nervous. This was a tricky and potentially embarrassing conversation she was about to have with her son and she would be glad when it was over.

“Mum” Kyle called out as the front door slammed.

Trish jumped at the noise and said “I’m in the kitchen.”

“How was footy?” she asked as he walked in and went straight to the fridge.

“Okay” he said without looking at her “I kicked a goal.”

“That’s fantastic” Trish said feeling very proud. “Well done.”

“Thanks” her son said in between stuffing grapes in his mouth.

Taking a deep breath Trish said “can we talk for a minute? I have something I want to ask you.”

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18/07/12
 

Part 524

Kyle brought his bowl of grapes over and sat next Trish. “What’s up” he said.       

“I want to ask you something. Now you can say no, but I’d like you to think about it before you decide one way or the other. Will you do that?”

“Okay” Kyle said.

Trish took a deep breath and keeping her eyes averted she said “how would you feel if Lawson stayed over some nights?”

Kyle didn’t say anything.

Trish turned her head to look at him. “What do you think?”

“I thought you said not to answer straight away” he said.

She smiled. “I meant you didn’t have to give me your final decision straight away but we can talk about it if you like. Do you have any questions?”

“Where would he sleep?” Kyle asked.

This was the bit Trish was worried about but as she sat there she found she couldn’t lie to him. She looked away from her son and said “he’d sleep in my bed.”

“Oh” Kyle said.

Trish looked at him again “would you mind?”

“I don’t know” he said.

“It would only be sometimes” she hastened to add “maybe Saturday nights then he’d be here to take you to footy on Sunday’s.”

Having finished the grapes Kyle jumped off the stool and said “I’m going to have a shower.”

“Okay” Trish said biting her bottom lip as she watched him go. She’d told him to think about it and he was so she couldn’t complain. At least he hadn’t said no. She wondered how long she’d just have to wait for his answer.

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21/07/12
 

Part 525

Late that afternoon Lawson arrived at Trish's. Kyle, who had been watching TV in the living room, jumped up and opened the door. “Hey Lawson, you want to play playstation?”

“Sure mate” he said ruffling his hair “just give me one sec to say hello to your mum.”

“Okay” I’ll get it set up.”

“Good plan” he said. “Is your mum in the kitchen?”

“Yep” Kyle said.

“Okay I won’t be a minute” Lawson said with a smile and he walked into the other room.

“Hey” he said to Trish as he bent to kiss her.

“Hi” she said with a smile.

“Everything okay?” he asked.

“I don’t know, he’s thinking about it.”

Lawson’s eyebrows went up “right” he said. “Is that good or bad?”

“No idea” Trish said with a shrug.

“Don’t worry about it” he said kissing her head, “if he says no, we are no worse off.”

Trish smiled “true” she said. “Go play with Kyle. I’ll be in in a sec.”

Lawson gave her a wink and walked back into the living room.

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22/07/12
 

Part 526

A few minutes later Trish walked into the living room and sat down beside Lawson. Kyle as usual, was seated on the floor. As Lawson and Kyle finished the game they were playing Lawson looked over at Trish and said “how about I cook tonight? You’re always cooking for me.”

Trish smiled “I like cooking.”

“Yeah but you do it all day at work too, so let me help out tonight.”

“Okay” she said “thanks.”

“No problem” and looking down at Kyle he said “you want to give me a hand mate?”

“What are you cooking?”

“I thought we’d make pizza, what do you think?”

Kyle’s eyes lit up and he smiled “yes please.”

“Come on then” he said. Let’s see what’s in the fridge and then we’ll go to the shops and buy what we need.

Kyle rolled up the cord of his controller and turned off the TV.

Trish watched as the two of them moved into the kitchen.

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23/07/12
 

Part 527

“So what do you like on your pizza?” Lawson asked Kyle as he opened the fridge.

“I like meat, any sort of meat” Kyle said.

Lawson grinned, “my kind of pizza.”

“Mum likes pineapple though” Kyle added.

“Right, pineapple and meat, sounds good to me” Lawson said as he closed the fridge.

“Hey Lawson” Kyle said his expression was serious all of a sudden.

“Yeah mate” Lawson said as he watched him.

“Mum said you want to stay over sometimes, do you?”

Lawson’s expression was as serious as Kyle’s now as he thought about his response.

“I’d like to very much” Lawson said “but I don’t want to get in the way or upset how you and your mum work, that’s why your Mum wanted to check with you first.”

Kyle nodded and looked away.

Not wanting to push it Lawson said in a bright tone “right mate let’s get going.”

But Kyle wasn’t done. Looking up at him he said “do you love Mum?”

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25/07/12
 

Part 528

Lawson looked down at Kyle and said “yes mate, I do.”      

Kyle nodded and looked away. “Does she know?”

“Yes I told her a little while ago.”

Kyle looked up, “okay, then you can stay over” he said.

Lawson smiled. “Thanks mate.”

Kyle blushed and moved his eyes away.

“How about you go tell your mum” Lawson said. “I’ll wait for you in the car and ruffling his hair, Lawson walked back into the living room.

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26/07/12
 

Part 529

Stepping back into the living room Lawson looked down at Trish.

“Everything okay?” she said when he kept walking heading for the door.

Lawson turned back and winked at her but didn’t stop.

Trish frowned and then turned her head as she heard Kyle walk into the room. “You going with Lawson?”

Kyle nodded but didn’t move.

“You’d better go then he’s already outside” Trish said still frowning.

Kyle didn’t respond, he just looked at her.

Trish was worried but before she could speak Kyle said “I told Lawson it was okay.”

“What was okay?” Trish said her frown deepening.

“That he can stay over” Kyle said.

“Oh” Trish said her eye brows rising as she absorbed the shock.

“Did I do the wrong thing?” Kyle said his expression worried.

“What do you mean?” Trish said struggling to keep up as he kept surprising her.

“Telling him first.”

She smiled, “no it’s fine. I was just surprised. I’m happy you’re okay with it.”

“He said you love him” he asked surprising Trish once more.

She blushed and smiled “yes, I do.”

He nodded and then without looking at her, his voice barely more than a whisper, he said “me too” before he turned and walked out.

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29/07/12
 

Part 530

Trish watched her son walk out as she tried to get her head around what had just happened. Then dropping back against the couch her face broke into a grin. She couldn’t believe how lucky she was. After years of being on her own, bringing up her son single handed, to have found someone like Lawson was like a dream. And then to have her son accept him and for them to have formed the close bond they have, was beyond what she could have hoped for. She couldn’t wait until she got Lawson alone later to tell him and that with Kyle’s blessing there would be no more need for them to sneak around to be together.

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30/07/12
 

Part 531

That evening Kristy called her family to tell them about their plans for the wedding.

Her announcement that they planned to marry in Tahiti was met with silence from her mother. Then with forced brightness she said “that sounds lovely Kristy.”

“Mum I know you’re worried about the cost so you can stop pretending you’re excited” she said in an indulgent teasing tone.

“It’s not that we don’t want to be there honey, but there is no way we’ll be able to afford it.”

“That’s what I told Josh and he told me to tell you that he’ll be paying for you guys to be there.”

This statement was met with an even longer silence. “Kristy...” he mother started to say.

Kristy smiled to herself she could imagine her mother’s face at that moment. It would be a mixture of concern and shock and consternation and before she could argue Kristy added “it’s his wedding present to me, so you can’t say no.”

“Oh dear” her mother said.

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02/08/12
 

Part 532

“Mum, stop worrying” Kristy said “Josh has no family of his own so it means a lot to him to be able to do something for you. Please let him.”

Mary Black was quiet for so long Kristy wondered if she’d hung up “mum?”

“I don’t know what to say.”

“Say yes” she said.

“I don’t know...” Mary said.

“Please Mum?”

“What about your father?” Mary said “how will I get him to agree?”

Kristy smiled, she knew she’d accepted it. “You’ll work it out mum.”

“Oh my, we’ll have to get passports.”

Kristy laughed “you’ll have plenty of time for anything you need to organise including time off work. It won’t be happening for six months.”

“What will I wear?” Mary said distracted by the details.

Laughing again, Kristy said “a bikini.”

“Kristy” her mother exclaimed. “I will not be wearing a bikini, not even to swim in.”

Still chuckling Kristy said “don’t worry Mum. I’ll come home before we go and we’ll sort all that out.”

“Oh thank goodness. Do you know my hands are shaking?”

“Relax mum, it’s going to be fine. It’s supposed to be a celebration so please don’t stress too much. I’ll make sure you’re all set.”

“Of course it is” Mary said. “Please thank Josh for us, no don’t” she said changing her mind “I’ll do it myself.”

“Okay” Kristy said. “Now are you recovered enough for me to go? I don’t want to worry about you passing out on the floor once I’ve hung up.”

“Pfft” Mary scoffed “pass out indeed. Just no more shocks please.”

“I promise mum, that’s the last one for a while. Now you speak to Dad and Joel and I’ll call you in a couple of days.”

“Bye honey” Mary said sounding back to her old self.

“Bye mum” Kristy said and as she hung up she started to laugh again.

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03/08/12
 

Part 533

“What’s so funny?” Josh said as he walked into the living room and dropped down onto the couch beside her.

“Mum” Kristy said with a smile. “You’d think it was her getting married.”

Josh smiled “so she didn’t argue about me paying?”

“No she did, but she gave in. I’d expect something coming your way from her too.”

“Something good or bad?” Josh said with a frown.

“Knowing Mum, probably both” she said with a laugh.

Josh grinned “consider me warned.”

“Now all you have to do is tell the TR guys. I hope Trish and Kyle will be able to come.”

“I can’t see Lawson leaving them behind” Josh teased as he kissed her head.

“They make a nice family don’t they?”

“Yeah” Josh said and with a mischievous look he added “maybe we should start thinking about that.”

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06/08/12

Part 534

“Josh” Kristy exclaimed, her face expressing her surprise for she had not having seen this suggestion coming. “I promised mum no more shocks, so let’s get married first.”

He laughed “I didn’t mean today.”

“Good” she said. “I need to get my head around being a wife before I can think about becoming a mother.”

“You’ll be a great mum” Josh whispered kissing her ear.

Kristy shivered “no you’ll be a great dad.”

“So we’ll both be great” he said as his lips worked their way up her throat.

“Yes” Kristy said but her mind was no longer on what they were talking about. Josh’s lips were working their way along her jaw and unable to take it anymore she turned her head to meet his mouth with hers.

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07/08/12
 

Part 535

The next day in the locker room while the team were getting ready to start their shift, Josh took advantage of them all being in the same room and said “okay guys about the wedding, we’re getting married in Tahiti in six months. We’d like you all to be there but we understand if you can’t. I’ll text you all the travel agents details. ”

His announcement was met with silence, but Josh didn’t care. Never a verbose individual, he’d said what he needed to and that was enough. He shut his locker and began to walk out.

“What that’s it?”  Stella asked.

Josh turned and looked at her. He shrugged “what more do you want?”

“I don’t know” she said, no one else seemed to have found their voice, “some consideration maybe.”

Josh smiled “why? It’s our wedding.”

“Well it would serve you right if no one showed up” she said.

Josh’s smile widened “I don’t care” he said and walked out.

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09/08/12

 Part 536

Stella was standing with her mouth open as Josh left.

Lawson smirked and said “Stell you don’t have to go, you know.”

“No way” she said “I’m going now just to piss him off.”

Lawson laughed and on his way out he said under his breath “mission accomplished.”

As Lawson left Stella turned to look at Michael and Christian, “are you guys going?”

“Sure” Michael said. “I’ve never been to Tahiti.”

“Yep” Christian said “just got to check the in-laws can look after the kids. It’s a great excuse for Leah and me to get away by ourselves.”

“And it doesn’t worry you that he doesn’t care one way or the other?”

Christian smiled “Stell if he didn’t want us there he’d never have told us. I thought you could read him better than that.”

Stella rolled her eyes and sighed “maybe” she said “but why does he have to such a hard arse about it?”

“Because that’s Josh” Christian said and he walked out of the locker room.

Michael grinned at her irritated expression and wrapping an arm around her shoulder as they walked out he teased “wanna share a room?”

“In your dreams” she said elbowing him in the ribs.

Michael grunted and laughed.

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10/08/12

Part 537

That evening Lawson filled Trish in on Josh and Kristy’s wedding plans as they sat close together on the couch. Kyle had just gone to bed.

“Tahiti” Trish said her eye brows shooting up in surprise. “How amazing? Will you go?”   

“No” Lawson said shaking his head “we’ll go.”

“Oh no” Trish said horrified. “There is no way I can afford that and before you suggest it, you won’t be paying for me.”

Lawson frowned “why? I can afford it.”

“That’s not the point. I can’t let you do that.”

He shrugged “okay I won’t go either then.”

“Lawson don’t” Trish said, her tone angry, “that’s not fair.”

He frowned “I’m not trying to manipulate you.”

“That’s how it feels” she said.

“I honestly didn’t mean it like that” he said “I just don’t want to go if you can’t come too.”

Trish sighed.

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13/08/12

Part 538

Trish didn’t know what to do. If she didn’t agree to go the Josh and Kristy’s wedding Lawson wouldn’t go either. But if she let him pay she wouldn’t be able to live with herself. She had guilt no matter which way she turned. She sighed again and put her head in her hands.

Lawson watched her and hated himself. He could see the war going on within her and he hadn’t meant to cause that. He just wanted her with him. “Can we work something out?” he said.

“Like what?” Trish asked.

“What if I pay for you to go, you feed me every night for a month?” he said trying to lighten the mood.

“I feed you nearly every night already” Trish said.

“See I owe you” he teased.

Trish wasn’t in the mood for jokes, she frowned at him.

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15/08/12
 

Part 539

Lawson’s face sobered “come here” he said.

Trish didn’t move, she just looked at him.

“We’ll work it out” he said.

“How?”

“You pay what you can. I’ll pay the rest and you can pay me back, how’s that?”

“That could take forever” she said.

“Good job I’m not going anywhere then” Lawson said with a smile.

This time Trish couldn’t stop her answering smile when he said things like that, it all sounded so simple. But the smile didn’t last.

“Trish I don’t want to make things difficult for you” he said as he watched her expression change, “you tell me how you want it to work and we’ll do that.”

She sighed. “You make it impossible for me to argue” she said.

“Good” he said “and now will you come here?”

Trish sighed again and moved into his arms. 

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19/08/12
 

Part 540

Lawson lifted his head a few minutes later. “Am I forgiven?” he said.

Having been kissed stupid Trish no longer knew what she was supposed to be forgiving. She shook her head “I have no idea, what did you do?”

Lawson laughed “If you can’t remember I’m not going to remind you.”

She smiled and as their conversation came back to her she gave him an anxious look and said “what about Kyle?”

Lawson shrugged “he can come too. It can be an early Christmas present from me.”

“There is no way I’m going to allow you to do that. I’ll see if mum will have him while we’re away.”

“Won’t he be upset about not going though?” Lawson asked, his own expression worried now.

“Too bad” she said. “It’s not good for him to always get what he wants.”

“Unlike me” Lawson teased as he kissed her neck “it’s very good for me when I get what I want.”

Trish smiled and tilted her head. A shiver passed through her as she said “it’s good for me too.”

Lawson smiled against her skin and then moving his mouth settled it over hers in a heated kiss.

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21/08/12

Part 541

When Lawson moved his mouth back to her throat a few minutes later Trish whispered “do you want to stay?”

Lawson raised his head and looked at her. Her eyes were dark and dreamy. A slow smile broke across his face. “We didn’t warn Kyle.”

“Maybe it’s better this way. He won’t know about it until it’s over. He’ll be able to see it’s not such a big deal.”

Lawson cocked an eyebrow at her “not such a big deal?”

Trish laughed “for him, for me it’s everything.”

He grinned “better” he said. “If you’re sure you’re ready I’m all for it.”

Running her hand under his t-shirt and over his warm skin she said “I’m so ready, I’m liable to spontaneously combust if you go home.”

Lawson laughed “well we can’t have that so I guess I’m staying.”

Trish grinned and picking up the remote she turned off the tv and got to her feet. She held out her hand “come on.”

“You realise it’s only nine thirty” he teased.

“I don’t care, now come on, you’re wasting time.”

 

He chuckled and putting his hand in hers got to his feet. Then picking her up, he carried her to her bedroom, turning out the lights on the way.

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22/08/12

 

Part 542

The next morning Kyle walked into the kitchen to find Lawson sitting at the table, reading the paper. He frowned and said “hey Lawson.”

“Morning mate” Lawson said as he folded the paper and placed it on the table.

“Where’s mum?”

“In the shower, she should be out in a minute.”

Kyle nodded.

Lawson wondered if he should say something or leave it to Trish but before he could decide Kyle said “did you stay here last night?”

Wary Lawson said “yeah, I know we didn’t let you know but we didn’t decide on it until after you’d gone to bed.”

The boy shrugged and walked over to the pantry, searching for breakfast “whatever” he said.

Lawson frowned. He couldn’t tell if he wasn’t bothered by it or he was, the answer he’d given could go either way. Deciding he needed to be sure Lawson said “is it okay we didn’t tell you first?”

Kyle turned and looked at him “sure” he said with a smile “you can stay whenever you like.”

Lawson smiled to himself as Kyle turned back to the cupboard.

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26/08/12
 

Part 543

Trish walked into the kitchen and saw that her son was up, her chest tightened. She’d wanted to tell him about Lawson staying but it seemed it was too late for that now. “Morning Kyle” she said whilst giving Lawson a look that asked if everything was alright. She held her breath.

But Lawson grinned and winked at her and she released her breath on a sigh as Kyle emerged from the pantry “hi mum” he said. “can Lawson take me to school?”

Trish smiled “I’m not sure he has time today Kyle.”

“Sure I do” said Lawson.

“Well you’re all set then” she said and turning to the fridge she added “now what would you guys like for breakfast?”

“Don’t worry about us” Lawson said “we’ll get something on the way. Right Kyle?”

“Yes please” he said with enthusiasm as he hurried out of the kitchen “I’ll just get ready” he called over his shoulder.

“Heaps of time mate” Lawson said and standing he walked over to Trish. Stopping in front of her he pulled her into his arms.

“That went well” Trish said as she wrapped her arms around his neck.

He nodded and his gaze on her mouth he said “mind if I bring a toothbrush over for next time.”

She smiled “I’ll buy you one to keep here” she said “but you can bring anything you like over” and reaching up she kissed him.

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27/08/12
 

Part 544

A few minutes later Lawson and Trish heard Kyle coming back and he stepped back and released her. “You know my place is starting to look mighty lonely” he teased.

Trish smiled “it won’t be any better here when you’re there.”

He ran a finger along her jaw, his eyes intent on her, as Kyle walked in.

Trish shook her head as Lawson’s hand dropped away and the spell was broken. “Don’t forget your lunch” she said to her son.

“I’ll tell Josh today we’re on for his wedding” Lawson said.

“When is Josh getting married?” Kyle asked.

“September” Trish said.

“Am I going too?”

“Not this time” she said.

“Why?” Kyle asked with a frown.

“Because you’d be bored anyway.”

“No I wouldn’t.”

“Remember when Grandma took you to church” Trish said giving him a knowing look.

“Yeah, but it’s Josh and Kristy” he said.

“I’m sorry sweetie” Trish said “the wedding’s in Tahiti.”

“Tahiti?” Kyle said his eyes growing to the size of saucers.

“Yes.”

“Mum, that’s not fair. Why do you get to go and not me?”

____________________________________________________________

28/08/12

Part 545

“Kyle can we talk about this later” Trish said not wanting to have an argument about it when he needed to go to school. “Please get your bag packed or you’ll make Lawson late.”

Kyle did as he was told but instead of bounding around as usual he dragged himself through packing his bag, scowling the whole time.

Trish sighed as he walked out of the room to find his jumper. She’d told Lawson it would do her son good not to get his own way all the time, but she honestly thought Kyle wouldn’t have really cared about going. However seeing his mutinous expression, she knew from experience what she was in for when she saw him that afternoon. She hadn’t seen that look for some time she now realised. Not since Lawson started coming around. She didn’t want to go back to those days when it took everything in her not to give into his tantrums. 

“Don’t worry about it” Lawson said giving her a quick kiss good bye “I’ll talk to him.”

“I don’t think it will help but thank you” she said, her expression still worried.

Lawson could see she was unconvinced. “It’ll be fine” he said. Then he lowered his head again and said against her mouth “now smile.”

Trish couldn’t help herself and as he eased back she was already smiling. “Better” he said. “Now I’ll see you tonight and don’t worry about Kyle, okay?”

“Okay” she said and watched as he walked out. Then she sighed again but this time it was for a different reason. This time it was relief. Just knowing Lawson was there and willing to help her deal with her son made her feel lighter, easier. Even if he didn’t get far talking to Kyle, there would be two of them to deal with him later. It wouldn’t be just her and that thought was enough to keep the smile on her face. 

______________________________________________________________

29/08/12
 

Part 546

“So Macca’s for breakfast?” Lawson asked Kyle as they got in his car.

Kyle shrugged.

“You want to go somewhere else?”

He shrugged again without looking at Lawson.

“Right” Lawson said “you don’t talk, you don’t eat.”

Kyle turned his head and glared at him.

“Up to you mate” Lawson said.

Kyle looked away “okay” he mumbled.

“Okay what?” Lawson said.

“Okay macca’s” Kyle mumbled.

“Good choice” Lawson said.

_______________________________________________________________________

31/08/12
 

Part 547

Lawson waited until they were seated at a table their breakfast in front of them before he brought up the subject of the wedding. He’d had any amount of training in negotiation but he didn’t think any of it had prepared him for this ten year old boy. “So you going to give your mum a hard time about not going to the wedding?”

“It’s not fair” he said.

“Maybe not, but sometimes life isn’t fair.”

Kyle just looked at him.

“Mate” he said “it’s a wedding, you’d hate it.”

“You’re going.”

“Yeah but I have too, I’m the best man.”

Kyle looked away.

“There’ll be no other kids there.”

“Why don’t you just say you don’t want me to go?” Kyle yelled.

“Kyle, that’s not true.”

“Yeah right” he scoffed

Lawson sighed. “Look I don’t know if I should be telling you this but I think you’re old enough to understand some things.”

_________________________________________________________________

02/09/12

 Part 548

Kyle’s gaze was fixed on Lawson now.

“You’re mum wants you to come and so do I, but she can’t afford to pay for it.”

A painful flush crept up Kyle’s neck, he looked away. “I didn’t know that.”

“I know mate, but now you do?”

“I won’t ask to go” Kyle said his eyes on the table.

Lawson smiled and wanting to reward him for being reasonable he suggested “what if the three of us go away for the weekend somewhere beforehand?”

“Really?” Kyle said, his expression brighter all of a sudden.

“Sure” Lawson said and then smiling he added “now eat your breakfast before we’re both late.”

Kyle grinned and began to eat.

____________________________________________________________

03/09/12
 

Part 549

Lawson was worried he’d done the wrong thing telling Kyle about Trish not being able to pay for his ticket so after dropping him off at school he stopped by the cafe.

Trish was surprised when Lawson walked in and seeing his worried expression her heart sank. She thought she knew what he was going to say.

“He wouldn’t listen, would he?” she asked once they were in the kitchen.

“No he was happy enough in the end. I don’t think you’ll get any argument from him now.”

“Oh” she said “then why do you look so worried?”

“It’s what I told him to stop him arguing. I’m not sure you’re going to be happy about it.”

“What?” she said her chest beginning to hurt.

He grimaced and admitted, “I told him that you couldn’t afford to buy him a ticket.”

Trish searched his eyes for a minute and then she smiled. Reaching up she kissed him, “that’s fine” she said “that’s exactly what I was going to tell him tonight.”

Relieved, Lawson sighed.

Her smile widened. “He needs to know there are limitations in life” she said.

He grinned and pulling her towards him, he gave her a fierce kiss. “I have to go but we’ll pick this up tonight” he said as he released her.

“I’ll look forward to that” Trish said with a smile and holding up a hand she watched him walk out. 

_________________________________________________________

04/09/12
 

Part 550

That afternoon Trish was relieved to hear her son’s cheerful greeting as he walked into the cafe.

“How was school?” she said.

“Okay, we had spot. That was good.”

“Have you got any homework?”

“Just a maths sheet” he said with a shrug.

“Well get something to eat and get on with it, then you won’t have to be doing it when Lawson comes over later.”

“Did he tell you were going to go away for the weekend before you guys go to the wedding?”

Trish’s eyebrows rose. Lawson hadn’t mentioned this but she would take that up with him not with her son. It was clear this was part of why Kyle wasn’t making an issue out of going now. She didn’t object to the idea in theory but she wished he’d spoken to her first. She was concerned about the cost.

“No he didn’t say anything” she said. “I’ll talk to him about it tonight.”

_______________________________________________________________

06/09/12
 

Part 551

“We’ll be able to go though, won’t we?” Kyle asked with a concerned expression.

“We’ll see” she said refusing to give him an assurance she might not be able to stick to.

“Oh mum” he whined.

‘That’s enough’ Trish said “let me see what he has in mind first, okay? I’m not ruling it out.”

“But he said we could.”

“Yes but I have to be able to pay for it. We can’t expect him to pay for us. That’s not fair.”

Kyle groaned.

“Is it?”

“No” he said.

“Right, so let me speak to him and we’ll see.” Then kissing his head she said now get that homework done.”

Kyle lumbered out dragging his bag behind him.

Trish smiled as she watched him go. 

_______________________________________________________________

11/09/12
 

Part 552

That evening after Kyle had gone to bed, as they sat together on the couch, Trish turned to Lawson and said “thank you for making Kyle see reason.”

“No problem” he said with a grin. He couldn’t help but feel pleased with himself.

“I thought we were going to have world war three” Trish said. “That’s what would have happened before.”

“Before?” he said.

Trish smiled “before you” she said.

Lawson’s grin became smug. “Happy to help.”

“You’ve made a huge difference in his life” she said. “Don’t ever doubt that.”

“Good” he said happy that was the case and then he teased “but what about your life? Have I made a difference to it too?”

Trish smiled and leaning over she kissed him and said “you have turned my world upside down.”

“In a good way I hope.”

“In the best way possible.”

“Good” he said and brought his mouth down hard on hers. 

____________________________________________________________

14/09/12

Part 553

When Lawson eased back a few minutes later Trish said “Kyle said something about us going away for the weekend. I hope you didn’t promise him anything.”

“I did promise” he said.

“Lawson” Trish admonished with a frown.

He laughed. “Don’t panic. I have a holiday house by a lake. It won’t cost you a thing.”

“Really?”

“Yep, it’s in the middle of nowhere so there are no neighbours. Kyle can make as much noise as he likes. I hope he likes to fish.”

Trish laughed liking the sound of this already. “I don’t think he’s ever been fishing before, but I’m sure he’ll love it.”

“Good because that’s pretty much all there is to do there.”

“Pretty much?” Trish said.

“Well I’m sure we’ll find something else to do” he said with a grin “but for Kyle, that’s about it.”

Trish blushed and laughed. “Maybe we could take his playstation.”

“No there’s a idea” Lawson said “that’ll be good for when the sun goes down.”

“So when were you thinking we’d go? I’ll have to get someone to open up the cafe.”

“How about when footy season has finished, so Kyle doesn’t miss a game, you tell me when you can get away and as long as I’m not working we’ll go. We may be able to go more than once before the wedding if you and I can synchronise our schedules and Kyle likes it up there.”

“I’m sure he’ll have a ball” Trish said and leaning over she gave him a quick kiss. “Thank you.”

But a quick kiss wasn’t enough for Lawson he merely mumbled “no worries” and met her mouth again in a heated kiss.

_______________________________________________________________

17/09/12

Part 554

Two weeks later on Thursday night Trish and Kyle were packing for their weekend away at Lawson’s holiday house.

“Mum what do I need to pack?” Kyle called out.

“Clothes” Trish called back “but nothing good” she added as she went to answer the door, the bell having just rung.

She smiled at the man on her doorstep. “I’m not sure you want to come in” she teased “we’re busy packing and have no time for socialising.”

“Right” he said leaning against the door frame, a grin on his face. “So you want me to go?”

“Don’t you dare” she said grabbing his shirt and pulling him in the door. Shutting it, she pushed him against the wall and kissed him.

Lawson smiled against her mouth and deepened the kiss. As she eased back a few moments later he teased “talk about mixed messages, one minute you’re telling me not to come in the next you drag me in and kiss me. Is it any wonder us guys never know what’s going on?”

She smiled. “Didn’t I make myself clear. Let me try again" and she met his mouth again in a searing kiss. As she moved back she said “any clearer?”

“No” he said moving his head towards her again. Trish laughed and pushed him away. “If we keep that up I’ll never get packed.”

“I’ll help” he said grinning and pulling her back into his arms, his lips finding their way to her throat.

“Oh yeah I can see what sort of help your going to be to me” she said freeing herself with reluctance. Go help Kyle.”

Lawson grinned and with a wink he headed for Kyle’s room.

Trish watched him go with a laugh and a shake of her head.

______________________________________________________________

19/09/12
 

Part 555

Kristy was also packing. She was going home tomorrow to see her parents for a couple of days to organise their travel plans for the wedding. Josh wasn’t going with her this time. He had to work all weekend.

“When will you be back?” he said wrapping his arms around her waist from behind as she straightened from putting some things in her case.

Kristy smiled and sighed. At this rate it would take all night to pack. “Josh I’ve told you three times, I’ll be back on Monday afternoon. I should be here when you get home from work.”

He turned her to face him “waiting for me?” he asked his gaze intense.

“Waiting for you” she agreed with a smile.

The corners of his mouth lifted in a crooked smile. “Good” he said.

Reaching up she fitted her arms around his neck and kissed him. “You’ll be too busy to even miss me.”

“I miss you already” he said and he wasn’t smiling anymore.

Her own smile faded. “I know” she said “me too.”

Josh picked her up and pushing her case onto the floor laid her down on the bed.

“Josh” she said with a laugh as she watched her neatly folded clothes fall out all over the floor.

“Don’t worry” he said kissing her throat. “I’ll help you put it back later.”

Kristy closed her eyes and placed her hand on the back of his head “later” she said no longer sure what they were talking about.

Josh smiled against her skin and moved his mouth up and fitted it over hers.

_________________________________________________________

20/09/12

 Part 556

Later Kristy repacked her suitcase and true to his word, Josh helped. Within half an hour she was done. The plan was that if Josh could get away from work, he’d drive her to the airport in the morning and she’d be in Perth before lunch time. She was looking forward to seeing her parents and her little brother Joel, living on the other side of the country, she missed them.

She sat down next to Josh on the couch. Jessie was curled up at his feet. Josh had poured them both a glass of wine and he handed her one.

“What do you want to watch?” she said.

“I don’t care” he said wrapping an arm around her and kissing her head.

Kristy smiled and picking up the remote turned on the tv. Finding a movie that had just started she rested her back against his chest. She was going to miss him while she was away and wasn’t looking forward to saying goodbye to him in the morning. It seemed she was destined to always miss someone. She sighed.

  

_____________________________________________________________

21/09/12

 

Part 557

The next day Josh started work early and was gone before Kristy woke up. They’d said their goodbye’s the night before. If things weren’t too busy, he’d come back and drive her to the airport. She hoped he’d be able to make it but she knew it was by no means a sure thing, more than likely he’d get held up. His work was anything but predicable.

As the time for her to leave neared and there was no sign of him, Kristy’s disappointment rose. She tried calling him, but it went straight to message bank. She sighed. She’d have to leave without seeing him. Lifting her phone again she dialled the taxi service.

____________________________________________________________

24/09/12
 

Part 558

But just as Kristy got through to the taxi company she heard the front door open. She looked up and smiled as Josh walked in.

“Given up on me hey?” he teased indicating her phone where a voice could be heard saying hello.

Kristy laughed said “wrong number” into the phone and hung up. “I did call.”

“Sorry I was driving. You ready?”

“As I’ll ever be.”

“Let’s go then” he said with grin.

Kristy grabbed her case and as Josh took it from her she said “you know it’s really not fair that you are in uniform when I have to say goodbye to you.”

His grin widened. “I promise to wear it for ya, when you come home.”

“I’ll hold you to that” Kristy said and she shut the front door.

_____________________________________________________________

25/09/12
 

Part 559

On Friday afternoon Trish could hardly contain Kyle’s excitement. He just couldn’t sit still.

“Kyle” Trish said exasperated when he opened the fridge for the tenth time and just stood there looking in. “Choose something to eat or shut the door. Then go and sit down somewhere. You are going to wear yourself before Lawson even gets here.”

Kyle closed the fridge door. “How long until he gets here?”

Trish smiled “a minute less than the last time you asked me, nineteen minutes, if he’s on time” and looking up at the ceiling she whispered “please let him be on time.”

“Okay” Kyle said and moved over to the pantry where he stood with the door open looking in.

Trish shook her head and with a smile finished packing the food she intended to take with them. 

____________________________________________________________

26/09/12

Part 560

Ten minutes later and much to Trish’s relief the door rang. She just prayed it was Lawson. He was a little early so there was a chance it was someone else.

“I’ll get it” Kyle called out as he ran to the door.

Trish could tell from the excitement in hers son’s voice that her prayers had been answered and she looked up and smiled as Lawson walked into the room a few seconds later. “Hi” she said.

“Hey” he said with a grin and pulled her into his arms.

“Where’s Kyle?” she asked when she realised her son hadn’t followed Lawson in.

“I told him to start packing his stuff in the car.”

“I’ll bet he didn’t need much encouragement” she said with a laugh.

“He didn’t” Lawson agreed “and it works for me” he added and as he finished speaking he brought his mouth down hard on hers.

Trish lost herself in the embrace and as Lawson raised his head he said with a grin “I’m looking forward to tonight.”

Trish smiled “same here.”

Lawson’s smile widened and as Kyle bounced into the room he released her and said “right are we ready to go?”

  

____________________________________________________________

28/09/12

 

Part 561

An hour and a half later Lawson pulled up outside his house on the lake. Trish and Kyle could see the water shimmering beyond the house and on the other three sides the dense bush lay close by leaving the house feeling cut off from the world.

“It’s beautiful Lawson” Trish said.

“It’s not much” he said “be warned it’s pretty primitive.”

Trish smiled and reaching up to kiss him as Kyle ran off to explore she said “it’s perfect.”

Lawson grinned “well let’s get this stuff inside so we can relax.”

Trish and Lawson unpacked the car by themselves. She didn’t have the heart to call Kyle back. Trish unpacked the boxes of food while Lawson put their bags in the rooms.

Finished with the food Trish went to find Lawson, he was in the largest bedroom. Both his bag and hers were sitting on the wide bed. Trish looked at the bags and smiled.

“What’s that about?” he said as he wrapped his arms around her.

“I just like the thought that we’ll be sharing a room here” she said.

“Sharing a bed” he corrected kissing her throat.

Trish smiled, “and that” she said.

He grinned and brought his mouth down on hers.

_______________________________________________________________

05/10/12

Part 562

After dinner Lawson and Trish sat on the couch and watched Kyle play on the play station. Lawson had had a few games but then he’d left it to Kyle and he now sat with his arm around Trish. He kissed her head.

“Kyle mate” he said. “You want to go fishing in the morning?”

Kyle turned a beaming face to him “yeah.”

“Yes please” Trish corrected.

“Yes please” Kyle said.

Lawson grinned “it’ll be early.”

“I don’t care” Kyle said.

“When we come back we can cook your mum some breakfast.”

“Okay” Kyle said with enthusiasm.

“Right, done” Lawson said. “We’d better have an early night then.”

“Okay” Kyle said and surprising them both he reached out and turned off the game console. “I’ll go to bed now.”

Trish’s eyes widened as she looked at Lawson. He smiled and turning to Kyle he said “we won’t be far behind you mate.”

“Night” Kyle said.

“I’ll come in in a minute” Trish said.

Kyle nodded and walked out of the room.

  

_____________________________________________________________

07/10/12

 

Part 563

Trish laughed and looked at Lawson “I think this place has cast a spell over my son. Never in his whole life has he offered to go to bed.”

Lawson laughed. “Life is full of surprises” and then bringing his mouth down on hers he pushed her back until he was lying over her.

After a minute Trish dragged her mouth away and with a smile she said “just let me get Kyle settled and I’ll be all yours” she said.

“All mine” he teased as his lips moved over her throat.

“To do what you like with” she teased.

Lawson groaned and hoisting himself up on one arm he said “go, or you won’t be going anywhere for a while.”

Trish laughed and after rolling out from under him, she watched him drop down on to his face with a moan. “I won’t be long” she said.

“You’d better not be” he warned as he rested his head on an elbow and smiled up at her.

Still laughing Trish walked out of the room.

_______________________________________________________________

09/10/12

Part 564 cannot be posted here. It'll be available in the usual place. 

_________________________________________________________________

12/10/12

Part 565

Early the next morning, careful not to wake Trish, Lawson crept out of bed and got dressed. It had taken all his will power to move away from her warm body and as she rolled over and the covers slipped away from her bare leg, exposing it from hip to toe, he groaned and closed his eyes. If he hadn’t promised Kyle he’d take him fishing, he’d have woken her by taking up where they’d left off the night before. Opening his eyes he was careful not to look at the bed and grabbing his boots he left the room.

After putting his boots on in the living room, Lawson went to wake Kyle.

“Hey mate” he whispered as he gave him a shake, “ready for fishing?”

Kyle rubbed his eyes and smiled. He all but yelled “are we going now?”

“Shhh” Lawson said with a grin. “Yep, get some clothes on. I’ll meet you outside. Just try not to wake your mum.”

“Okay” Kyle said whispering now and throwing the covers off.

“Good man” Lawson said with a smile and he left the boy to get ready.

____________________________________________________________

14/10/12
 

Part 566

Two hours later Lawson and Kyle let themselves back into the house. “Go and wash your hands mate and then get the stuff out for breakfast, I’ll wake your mum.”

Kyle smiled “okay Lawson” he said and walked out of the room.

Lawson walked into the bedroom and saw that Trish was in much the same position as when he’d left. He moved closer to the bed and sitting on the edge ran his hand over the soft skin of her leg. It was cool to the touch so he pulled the covers over it but left his hand resting on her thigh. Trish’s head was turned to face him and leaning over, he dropped a soft kiss on her mouth. She stirred and her lips parted. Seeing it, Lawson couldn’t help himself. Before she had even opened her eyes, he brought his mouth down hard on hers and smiled as she responded.

Trish wrapped her arms around Lawson as sensual memories of the night before filled her mind. She wanted him and not considering the circumstances she held him to her and deepened the kiss.

  

______________________________________________________________

16/10/12

Part 567 

It was Lawson who lifted his head with reluctance a few moments later. He smiled down at her, “Kyle’s up” he said.

Trish closed her eyes as she worked to get her breathing under control and tamper down her raging senses. It hurt like hell to be woken like that and then not be able to do something about it. 

He smiled and touched her face. He knew if she was feeling half of what he was at having to stop, she was suffering. He gave her a quick, tender kiss and said “no fishing tomorrow morning.”

Trish smiled. She loved knowing he felt the same way she did but she didn’t want to take anything away from her son. She knew he would have loved his time with Lawson. “No” she said “just wake me before you go.”

Lawson grinned, his eyes lighting up, “done.”

_______________________________________________________________

18/10/12
 

Part 568

Trish and Kyle loved their weekend away and while the details of why were different for each, the basic reason was the same for both of them, Lawson. It had been a long time since Trish had had someone to share the parenting of her son with and for Kyle, it was the first time in his memory he’d had a man around to spend time with on holiday.

When they returned to Trish’s place late Sunday afternoon Trish and Kyle unpacked while Lawson grabbed some dinner. Kyle was already starting to fade and once dinner was over Trish had no trouble convincing her son to head to bed.

When she came back from tucking Kyle in Trish was determined to make sure Lawson knew just how grateful she was. Instead of resuming her seat next to him, she sat down on his lap, facing him.

Lawson wrapped his arms around her and looked at her with a raised eyebrow.

“I just wanted to say, thank you for a wonderful weekend” Trish said, her eyes on his mouth.

“No problem” he said leaning in to kiss her throat. “I had a good time. I normally go up there by myself or with a mate, having you guys there was much better.”

She smiled. “I’m glad.” Then wanting to do more than kiss him, she got up and held out her hand to him. They needed to move out of the living room for what she had in mind.

“Where are we going?” Lawson said with a grin.

“Somewhere where I can show you properly just how much I appreciate you taking us away for the weekend.”

Lawson’s smile widened and putting his hand in hers he got to his feet. “Lead the way.”

Trish walked into her bedroom and when Lawson followed her in, she shut the door. He was standing close to the wall, to one side of the door and seeing his eyes darken as his gaze dropped to her mouth, Trish couldn’t wait any longer. She pushed him back and kissed him. 

__________________________________________________________

22/10/12

Part 569 cannot be posted here. It will be available for reading in the usual place. 

___________________________________________________________

29/10/12

Part 570 cannot be posted here either. It too will be available in the usual place. 

_________________________________________________________________

11/11/12
 

Part 571

Five months later all Josh’s and Kristy’s friends and family were packing to leave for their wedding in Tahiti. Kristy’s family had arrived from Perth the day before so they could all fly out together. Kristy had installed them at her place while she stayed at Josh’s.

Finally it was the morning of the flight and Kristy was beginning to feel stressed. Jesse had just been picked up by an employee of the kennel she’d be staying in while they were away.

“What if she thinks we’ve abandoned her?” Kristy asked as she threw things into her case.

“She’ll be fine” Josh said, doing his best to keep her calm.

“Oh for god sake, now I’ve forgotten my blue top” she yelled and moved to leave the bedroom. She had already been back to her place once that morning.

Josh caught her arm as she passed and stopped her.

Kristy pulled her arm out of his hand “Josh I’ve got to go back to my place again.”

He stepped in front of her. “Stop” he said. “Firstly you’ve got plenty of time to go back and get whatever you need. Secondly if you don’t relax a little I’m afraid they’re not going to let you on the plane.”

Kristy looked up at him with an expression of disbelief and then she laughed and looked away.

“That better” he said. “Now I know this is stressful but just remember, as long as you and I are there, that’s all that matters.”

Kristy smiled and wrapped her arms around his neck. “I don’t know what I’d ever do without you, you know?”

Josh folded his arms around her waist. “Just as well I’m not going anywhere then.”

She looked at him for a minute and then reaching up she kissed him.

Josh eased back a few minutes later and teased “now any more of that we don’t have time for, unless of course you want to forget about packing?”

Kristy laughed and said “thank you” then stepping back she picked up her keys and said “I’ll be ten minutes.”

__________________________________________________________________

18/01/13
 

  Part 572

About twelve hour later Josh and Kristy were shown into a room set out over the water in Tahiti. Everyone attending the wedding had gone off to their rooms agreeing to meet up at the bar in two hours. The wedding wasn’t until the following day so for now, they were just able to relax.

When the hotel porter left having deposited their bags, Josh grabbed Kristy around the waist and pulled her into his arms. “See we got here, no need for all that stress.”

Kristy smiled “you’d better get used to it. I don’t do anything this big without stressing a bit.”

“A bit?” Josh teased.

She grinned “okay a lot.”

“I don’t even think that covers it” he said grinning too now.

“Yeah well one of us has too. Does anything ever worry you?”

“Nah” he said. “As long as you’re here, I’ve got everything I need.”

Kristy had to blink back tears and reaching up, she kissed him. Moving her mouth off his, she hugged him “I love you, you know.”

“You’d better” he said and picking her up her carried her over to the bed.

________________________________________________________________

21/01/13
 

Part 573

As Josh and Kristy were making their way to the bar they ran into Lawson and Trish. “Do you like your room Trish?” Kristy asked while they walked along.

“It’s amazing Kristy. I still can’t believe I can just get up in the morning and jump in the water straight from my bed.”

Kristy smiled. “I know. I’m looking forward to doing just that.”

“But not tomorrow morning” Josh said. They were to be married at 10 am, before it got too hot.

Kristy smiled at him “no not tomorrow morning.”

“You guys breaking tradition and staying together the night before your wedding?” Lawson asked.

“Yep” Josh said. “She’s not leaving my sight until it’s time to walk down the aisle.”

Lawson smirked and Trish said “that’s sweet Josh.”

“Shh” Lawson teased “Josh doesn’t like people to know he’s capable of being sweet, you’ll ruin his reputation.”

“P*** off” Josh said but he was grinning.

Lawson laughed.

“Sorry Josh” Trish said.

“Don’t listen to him” Josh said. “I knew I should have left him off the invite list.”

Trish laughed and Lawson continued to chuckle.

“Come on let’s get a drink” Josh said as they reached the others “Lawson told me on the plane he’s shouting everyone tonight.”

“Oi” Lawson said.

But as a cheer went up it was Josh’s turn to laugh.

________________________________________________________

22/01/13
 

Part 574     

The next morning Josh and Kristy were awake early and ate a light breakfast in bed. Putting the tray aside when they were done Josh kissed her and said “I’m going to go and let you get ready.”

“Not yet” she said wrapping her arms and legs around him.

He smiled “hold that thought until after the ceremony okay.”

“No now” she teased.

He grinned. “If I don’t get out of here now, we’re both going to be late.”

“Who cares?” she said “it’s our wedding.”

“True” he said “but it’s going to be too hot if we’re that late.”

Kristy groaned and released him “okay” she said. “Just remember our place for later” she said with a smile.

He laughed “I’m not likely to forget that.” Giving her a last long kiss he rolled out of bed, pulled on some tracksuit pants and grabbing a garment back from off the back of the door he gave her a wink and said “see you there” before walking out. 

________________________________________________________

31/01/13 

Part 575

Kristy smiled as she thought about the fact that it was her wedding day. Excitement expelling her lethargy she sprung out of bed and jumped in the shower. She knew her mother and Trish would be there soon to help her get ready. Then within two hours she’d be walking down the aisle to Josh, she couldn’t wait. 

Remembering the feel of his warm skin under her finger tips just moments ago Kristy shivered and turned the shower off. She dried herself off and wrapping her wet hair in a towel she looked over at her dress hanging in a bag on the cupboard door. She was looking forward to putting it on. Made out of white, floaty chiffon it was an a-line dress with a v neck and cap sleeves. It left most of her back bare and had a short train. It was light and comfortable and perfect for a wedding in a hot climate. 

___________________________________________________________

07/02/13
 

Part 576

Two hours later Kristy was ready to leave. It was only a short walk from their room to where the wedding was to take place, at a spot surrounded by fragrant flowers and foliage, over-looking the water. Her dark hair had been put with a crystal comb and holding a bouquet of white gardenias she stepped out of the room. A hotel employee held an umbrella over her shielding her from the hot sun for her walk. As she reached the main path that had been covered in petals, music started to play. Her father was waiting to escort her, and stepped forward to offer his arm wearing a white linen shirt and loose black pants. He had a gardenia pinned to his chest. Kristy smiled at him.

“Ready sweetie?”

“Definitely” she said.

Trish stepped in front of them wearing a cornflour blue, one shoulder, floor length dress. She looked back at Kristy. “All set?”

“Yes” Kristy said with a smile, and they set off.

________________________________________________________

25/02/13

Part 577

As they approached the spot Kristy could see Josh waiting for her and she had to blink to stop the tears from falling. He looked amazing in loose white linen pants and shirt. Like hers, his feet were bare. This was exactly what they wanted, just the right balance of formality with casual. Most of the guests had bare feet too she noticed. Her parents were the only ones she could see in shoes and that probably had a lot to do with their age.

Josh was smiling at her. She grinned and taking her hand off her father’s arm she clasped his hand.

His long fingers wrapped around hers and they turned to face the celebrant. 

___________________________________________________________

27/02/13
 

Part 578

Within minutes the civil ceremony was over and the celebrant told Josh to kiss his bride. He didn’t need to be told twice. The words were hardly out of the woman’s mouth and his lips were on Kristy’s.

“Hello Mrs Joshua” he said against her mouth.

She laughed and between kisses said “hi Mr Joshua.”

Their friends cheered and clapped and Josh and Kristy turned to face them.

After everyone had congratulated them the guests moved off for pre lunch drinks. Champagne was brought to Josh and Kristy as photos were taken.

When the photographer had finished and they were alone for a minute Josh said “You look beautiful.”

“Thank you” Kristy said “You look pretty good yourself.”

“For a wedding outfit, this one isn’t bad” he said. “No tie and you don’t have to worry about ruining anything. This stuff creases if you just look at it.”

She laughed. “Any chance you’ll wear it again then.”

“Maybe” he teased “if you ask really nicely.”

She grinned and leaning close whispered “at the moment I’m more interested in you taking it off.”

He frowned “Kristy don’t, we have a reception to get through.”

“Do you think they’d miss us?” she said kissing his neck.

He groaned.

“Do you?’ she teased.

“Yes” he growled.

She laughed and moved back. “Okay, I guess we do have the rest of our life.”

“I like the sound of that” he said.

“Me too” she said and reaching up to give him a quick kiss on the lips they walked down to meet up with their guests.

The End