Love and the Single Woman (A/I, Teen) (Complete)

[StargazerUK]

Sorry for the delay.

Chapter 11


Max, Michael and Kyle had remained at the Crashdown after the girls and Alex had left to meet the others. They had thought about following but after Max had phoned the house and spoken to Tess it was decided not to crowd the little girl with too many new faces.

Since they had retaken their seats a silence had befallen them that was understandable under the circumstances. Each young man had numerous thoughts passing through his mind but none of their past experience had prepared them for anything like this.

Suddenly Michael leapt to his feet and started to pace. Kyle frowned and glanced at Max who simply shrugged his shoulders. He didn’t know what was troubling Michael, anymore than Kyle did.

After several minutes of pacing Kyle’s patience were at an end. “Dude! What are you doing? You’re wearing me out with all your pacing.”

Michael stopped long enough to send Kyle a vicious look but to his surprise he never spoke, he simply returned to pacing. Kyle let out a heavy sigh and looked to Max. Max eyed Kyle for a moment before silently mouthing the word, ‘What’. Kyle never spoke for fear of another look from Michael he just nodded towards the troubled young man.

It was Max’s turn to sigh. “Michael what is going on? Why are you pacing?”

Michael stopped again. Kyle was unsurprised when Max never received the dirty look that he faced when he had dared to interrupt Michael’s contemplation. “You guys will only laugh at me.” Michael said sternly.

Max and Kyle exchanged a look. “Look man, this isn’t easy for any of us and I can assure you now is not the time or place. Both Max and you have just discovered that you have a niece and I have just discovered one of my best friends has been a father for five years without knowing it. Even I can’t make light of that.” Kyle finished.

Michael ran his hands through his hair, as he appeared to come to a decision. He slid back in beside Kyle and grimaced. “I don’t know how to deal with kids.”

Max raised his eyebrows in surprise. “That’s it? You’re fretting over how you are going to handle Katie?”

Kyle started to smile, which didn’t go down too well with Michael. “Don’t do it Kyle! I’ll blast you into the middle of next week.”

Kyle held his hands up in mock surrender. “Listen man I’m not saying anything. I was only smiling because I was glad I wasn’t the only one who was worried about meeting Alex and Isabel’s little girl.”

Michael was relieved to see Max nodding. “You as well?” Michael asked incredulously.

“Of course.” Max smiled. “Surely you don’t think I have had any extra preparation for meeting our niece than you have.”

He suddenly felt very stupid. “But what worries me is what do you talk to them about?” Michael continued. “Kids I mean.”

All three men fell silent at that question.

“Sesame Street!” Kyle almost shouted.

“What?” Max asked.

Kyle’s face had simply lit up with enthusiasm. “We can talk to her about Sesame Street. I mean every one used to watch Sesame Street when they were growing up.”

“Some still do.” Max looked towards Michael.

“Hey! I don’t watch Sesame Street…I simply want to know what the letter of the day is.” Michael said firmly.

“I still watch it.” Max and Michael turned to Kyle. Kyle simply shrugged. “I’m not embarrassed. Big bird is a dude and I always liked his friend the elephant.”

“You mean Mr. Snuffleupagus.” Max interjected.

Michael turned to Max in surprise. “I didn’t say I hadn’t watched it Michael, I just said you still do.”

“So it’s set.” Kyle broke in. “If we get stuck we talk to Katie about Sesame Street.”

“What about ‘Bear in the big blue house’?”

Kyle looked to Max before looking at Michael. “Dude you need to get out more.”

Suddenly the bell above the entrance to the Crashdown sounded to denote a new arrival. All three young men turned towards the noise in time to see Tess, Liz and Maria come in. As they continued to watch a rather sheepish looking Isabel came in followed by whom they had specifically been waiting to see.

Alex stepped into the shade of the Crashdown with his daughter Katie clinging to him. She looked around the room and her eyes came to a halt on the three men sitting at the booth at the back.

“Katie honey, would you like a drink?” Liz asked her niece.

Katie looked to her father and smiled before looking back to Liz. “Orange soda please Aunty Liz.”

Alex let out a pretend gasp. “You like Orange soda as well?”

Katie giggled. “Mommy told me it’s your favourite.”

Alex glanced to Isabel. “Mommy’s right. It is my favourite. Shall we meet your Uncle’s?”

Katie looked back towards the still seated men and nodded vigorously.

Alex looked to Isabel. “It’s OK Alex, you take Katie to meet my brothers and I’ll help with the drinks.”

Liz and Maria moved around the counter to start getting the drinks while Isabel and Tess took seats on the other side, watching as Alex approached his friends with his daughter wrapped firmly in his arms.

“Gentlemen, I would like you to meet Katherine Stacey Whitman but you can call this little lady Katie.” Alex announced.

Katie giggled as her father repeated her mini speech from earlier. Alex lowered Katie to the floor as the three men stepped out.

In an almost comical scene taken from any old Knights of the round table film the three young men all drop to one knee as though to welcome royalty…their very own princess.

“Hi Uncle Max.” Katie stepped forward and gave her uncle a quick hug. “Hi Uncle Michael.” Again Katie stepped forward and gave her new uncle a hug. Finally Katie stepped towards Kyle, welcoming her uncle with a hug. “Hi Uncle Kyle.”

“Uncle Kyle?” Kyle repeated. “I’ve been promoted.”

Katie looked to her father, as she didn’t understand Kyle’s lame attempt at a joke. “Just ignore him Sweetie, Uncle Kyle can be silly sometimes.”

“Yeah…He can be an absolute ass…”

“Michael!” Maria cried as she placed her tray of drinks on the table.

Michael quickly stood up. “I’m sorry. I forgot myself for a minute.”

Maria glared at her boyfriend. “Well let’s make sure that doesn’t happen again.”

“It won’t.” Michael shook his head.

Katie giggled again. “I like Uncle Michael. He’s funny.”

Maria bent down to look at her little niece. “That’s right honey, Uncle Michael is funny and if you hear him say rude words you tell me or Aunty Liz OK?”

“OK.” The little girl smiled, as she looked up at an embarrassed looking Michael.

Liz came over with a second set of drinks and placed them beside the tray Maria had brought over.

“Liz, Maria can you keep an eye on Katie while I have a quick work with Isabel?”

Both girls nodded as they watched Alex make his way up to the counter where Isabel was still sitting with Tess.

As Tess became aware of Alex’s approach she made her excuses and left, leaving Alex to arrive at the counter so the two were alone for the first time since this had all come out.

“Hi.” Alex said as he sat down.

“Hi.” Isabel replied glancing across at the father of her child. “Look Alex I know you must have lots you want to say and probably lots of questions but…”

“Isabel…Isabel.” Alex finally managed to cut in on Isabel’s speech. “You’re right there are lots of things I want to know and I do have lots of questions but we can’t do everything or say everything at once so I suggest we take our time.”

Isabel gave Alex a nervous smile. “You’re right I’m sorry.”

Alex set his gaze forward so he was no longer looking at Isabel. “I guess we need to speak to your parents and my parents.” Isabel simply nodded. “I’m sure the news will spread like grease lightening that you are home and once they catch wind that you have a daughter I am sure everyone will want to know what has been happening with you and where you have been.” Again Isabel simply nodded in reply.

“I didn’t do it to hurt you.” Isabel suddenly blurted out. Alex finally returned his gaze to Isabel. “I didn’t take Katie away from you just to hurt you.”

Alex looked at Isabel for a long while as he could see tears beginning to stream down her face. “Now’s not the time Isabel. I have too much going on in my mind to start dealing with why you did what you did. I need to speak to my parents, I need to spend time with my daughter. Then and only then can I give any time or thought to what you did and why. Things have changed Isabel, you are no longer a priority in my life.”

Isabel watched as Alex got up from his seat and walked towards the restrooms. She gave a little glance to the side and was pleased to see most of her friends where too taken with Katie to have noticed the little scene that had played out between her and Alex. She did notice, however, that Liz and Maria were looking to her with sad expressions on their faces. Evidently they had seen what had occurred.

Both girls moved to either side of Isabel and wrapped a loving arm around their friend. “So the first thing we need to do is not let Katie see that you are upset.” Liz said softly.

Isabel nodded. She gave a glance in either direction to make sure no one could see her face. With her friends acting as cover Isabel took a deep breath to compose herself and then she swiped a hand across her face to remove any sign of tears and to repair any damage to her usually immaculate makeup.

Alex returned from the bathroom to find his two best friends with the mother of his child. “Do you want to take Katie to meet your parents first? I need to let my parents know what has gone on before I introduce their granddaughter to them.”

Isabel nodded.

“I’ll quickly say goodbye to Katie and I’ll await you call at home later.”

Again Isabel only nodded her compliance.

Alex walked over to his daughter who was being amused by her new uncles.

“What about the Cookie Monster? You must like the Cookie Monster.” Kyle pressed.

As Alex picked up Katie he could see a bemused look on Tess’s face. “Quick get her out of here before their behaviour gets worse.”

Alex smiled. “What do you mean?”

Tess shrugged. “I’m not sure exactly. I turned round for a second and when I looked back the three of them where just bombarding Katie with information and questions about Sesame Street.”

Alex shook his head as he turned to walk over to Isabel, Liz and Maria. “Here you go Sweetie you sit with Mommy for a minute.” Alex handed Katie to Isabel.

“Katie, Daddy has to go home and speak to Grandma and Grandpa Whitman but we will see him again tonight.” Isabel explained.

“Don’t go Daddy.” Katie tried to push her way out of her mother’s arms and into her fathers.

Alex lifted a hand to cup the little girls cheek. “It’s OK Sweetie. I promise I will see you later. You have to go and visit Grandma and Grandpa Evans who will be really pleased to see you and then after that you can meet my Mom and Dad. Would you like that?”

Katie nodded. Her father’s words stopping the threat of tears.

Alex leaned in and gave his daughter a gentle kiss on the cheek. “I’ll see you later Sweetie.”

“Bye Daddy, see you later.”



To be continued…

[StargazerUK]

Sorry for the delay. I've been having trouble with a new PC I bought last week but all appears OK now, thankfully.


Chapter 12


Alex stood on the doorstep to his parent’s house and took a deep breath. He loved his parents with all his heart and they had been nothing but supportive and loving off him since the day he was born but what he was about to do would stretch even the most understanding persons resolve. His parents were still trying to recover from his announcement that his wedding was off and the woman he professed to love had left him. How exactly could he follow that up with another explosive confession, that he had fathered a child five years previous and she was going to come round to meet her Grandparents this very evening?

The answer was he didn’t think he could!

Suddenly the front door opened and the petit figure of Alex’s mother came into view.
“Alex Sweetheart, what are you doing standing out here on your own? Dinner is nearly ready.”

Alex tried not to appear flustered. “Hi Mom. Sorry I was just thinking and I must have started to day dream.”

Katherine Whitman stepped back into the house to allow her youngest son to follow her inside. “Are you alright dear? You look troubled.”

Alex couldn’t think of how to answer his mother so he did the only thing he could do, he pulled his mother into a tight hug and allowed himself to breakdown.

With many years experience as a mother behind her Katherine did what she knew was the best thing to do under the circumstances, she allowed her son to express his emotions as only she would be allowed to see. After several minutes of unabashed crying Alex released his mother and stepped back.

“I’m sorry Mom.” Alex wiped at his tear stained face.

“Don’t be silly son you have nothing to be sorry for.” Alex’s mom took his hand. “Come with me.”

Alex followed his mother as she made her way into the kitchen. Alex’s father Charles Whitman was sitting at the table reading a paper. When he saw the look on both his wife and son’s faces he knew something was desperately wrong but as he went to open his mouth his wife gave him a subtle shake of the head which told him now was not the time for questions.

Katherine Whitman pointed to the chair beside her husband at the kitchen table. “Sit yourself down while I get you a drink and then we can talk about what’s been troubling you.”

Alex watched as his mother got him a soda from the fridge and poured it into a glass before placing it in front of him on the table. He glanced to the side and could see his father looking at him with only concern in his eyes.

Alex knew he had the most supportive and understanding parents in the world, even if they weren’t about as much as most other parents it didn’t mean that they loved him any less. Just as he fell in love with Katie as soon as he knew she existed, even before he had ever seen her face, he knew it would be the same with his parents. In fact he also knew the Evans family well enough to know that they too would welcome their new addition to the family without question. The single problem Alex had with what he was about to do was he didn’t like how he was just going to throw this at his parents and watch as they tried to help him with this situation.

After the friends had all completed college they had agreed to keep most of the summer free to spend some time together before they all started to get on with their lives. He had no doubt they would always be close and always be in touch but they weren’t likely to get a job in the same company or maybe not even the same city so this was their farewell summer together. That meant he was still at home with his parents and he didn’t have a great deal of money to fall back on. He would have to sort out how he was going to support Katie and fast.

Alex’s mom suddenly cut in on his thoughts. “When you are ready just let us know what’s bothering you. No matter what it is I am sure we can help.”

Alex watched as his mom took a seat the other side of the table so she wasn’t crowding him. Before beginning his explanation Alex took one last look at his parents before he told them the most amazing news any parent could ever hear.

“Before I start I just want to say thank you again for being so understanding about what happened between Laura and I. I know you spent a lot of time and money getting things set for the wedding and the last thing you deserved was for me to go and cancel it on you.” Alex said mournfully.

Alex felt a large hand come to rest on his shoulder. “Alex we told you at the time there really isn’t anything to be sorry for. We both thought the world of Laura, we thought she made you happy but if she wasn’t the right girl then it was right to call things off before you both did something you would later regret.”

“Your father’s right honey.” Mrs Whitman added. “You’re our number one priority and that means your happiness, that’s all we care about.”

Alex watched as his mom gave a nervous look towards his dad before continuing. “Is this anything to do with Isabel?”

“What?!” Alex was stunned. “Where did you get that from?”

“When I went to the food market I heard that she was back in town. I know how fond of her you were back in high school and how much it hurt you when she left.”

“Mom, I didn’t call off the marriage because of Isabel.” Alex stated.

“Alex we are not judging you and it’s none of our business if you still have feelings for Isabel. As your mother said our number one concern is your happiness and if Isabel makes you happy then Isabel makes us happy.”

Alex sighed but also couldn’t help but smile at his parent’s words of comfort. As Alex looked from one parent to the other it began to hit him that despite the shock he was about to give them his parents would do nothing but love Katie with all their hearts. That alone meant that Katie would be loved forever, which is such an important part of anyone’s life.

“We’ve actually gone off the subject that I wanted to talk to you about.” Alex smiled.

Katherine Whitman looked surprised. “I thought the cancellation of the wedding was what was bothering you, you mean there’s more?”

Alex nodded. “There’s more but I hope aside from it being a big shock it will also be a nice surprise…when you have recovered that is!”

Before either parent got a chance to respond to Alex’s cryptic clue the phone began to ring. “I’ll get it.” Alex said leaping from his chair.

Katherine and Charles Whitman watched as their youngest son grabbed the phone and disappeared out into the hall so they had no idea who he was talking to. Before they could strike up a conversation about their son’s strange behaviour he came bounding back into the kitchen, replacing the handset back on the base.

Alex sat back down with his parents but it became obvious his demeanour had changed from how he was before the phone call. “Right I need to move fast as we are going to have some visitors very soon.”

Alex started to fidget as he was unsure where to start.

“Alex honey, whatever it is just tell us and we will help in anyway we can.” Katherine pleaded.

Alex took in a deep breath and nodded to his moms comment. “You both know I had a crush on Isabel Evans all the way through high school.”

“And before.” Charles Whitman added.

Alex eyed his dad at that comment but realised he was as nervous as Alex was due to not knowing what this was about. Alex finally had proof of where he got his habit of babbling nervously in times of stress, his dad.

Alex continued. “I never dreamt of having this particular conversation with my parents but needs must. On the night of the Prom Isabel and I slept together.”

As that was over five years ago and he was now five years old he shouldn’t have been surprised when his statement barely brought a reaction from either parent.

“We were very much in love and I stress we took precautions.” Alex could see his mother eyeing him. “I promise mom it was something we both wanted and I was a perfect gentleman. I was so happy. I had everything I could want. I had the best friends, a great life and the girl of my dreams.”

“Then she left.” Mrs Whitman interjected. “It broke Diane Evans heart seeing her daughter leave. I can only imagine what she went through.”

“But there’s more, isn’t there?” Charles asked his son.

“Mom, Dad I never knew why Isabel left until today…” Alex trailed off.

Mrs Whitman reached across the table and took her sons hand. “Anything Alex, you can tell us anything.”

Again Alex nodded. Finally he had found the courage to tell them. “Isabel fell pregnant and decided not to tell me so I would go to college. She gave birth to a little girl, Katherine Stacey Whitman.”

Alex watched as his mothers eyes misted up with tears. He didn’t feel too bad as he knew they weren’t simply tears of sadness or heartache but also of joy and happiness. However the fact remained he had brought his mother to tears.

“Where are Isabel and Katie?” Charles Whitman asked solemnly.

“There are on their way over.” Alex squeezed his mother’s hand. “I know this is a lot to take in, for the both of you, but I knew as soon as I told you about Katie you would want to meet her so Isabel is bringing her over as we speak.”

“And Isabel kept this from you?” Mrs Whitman’s voice was little more than a whisper. “You said she wanted you to go to college.”

Alex nodded. “She said she knew if she told me back then I would quit school and try to find a job to support the three of us. She didn’t want to stop me from getting on with my life so she left for New York.”

“How do you feel about what she did?” Charles pressed.

“I’m not sure really.” Alex sighed. “I know Isabel didn’t do it to hurt me and I am sure she thought she was doing the right thing but the fact remains I have missed out on the last five years of Katie and…” Again Alex trailed off.

“Isabel?” Katherine offered.

“What?” Alex asked, confused.

“You said you missed out for the last five years of Katie and…but then you stopped. You were going to say Katie and Isabel.” No one knew Alex better than his own mother and she could tell he was torn over his mixed feelings for Isabel.

Alex quickly stood up. “I know this is a lot to ask but can we just keep it nice and light while Katie is here as I don’t want her getting upset.”

“Alex what sort of people do you thing we are?” Mr Whitman asked.

Mrs Whitman turned her son to face her. “Alex you may have business to sort out with Isabel but that is between the two of you. We, on the other hand, have a granddaughter to prepare for. Charles go out into the garage and find that box of toys we were thinking about giving to good will. Now where did I put the candy?”

Alex watched in amazement as his parents kicked into gear and got on with getting ready to meet their granddaughter. He had only told them a few minutes ago about her very existence and now they were acting as though it was something they had done on countless occasions before.

As he stood and watched everything was a blur. In one corner Katherine was dashing around the kitchen as though on skates. Dinner was no longer a priority as she tidied round and made the house presentable, not that it was ever anything but. Meanwhile Charles came staggering in from the garage under the weight of a large brown box. When he made it into the family room he lowered it to the floor and proceeded to rip it open.

Alex could only stand and watch as his parents prepared for the imminent arrival of Isabel and Katie. Finally a knock at the front door snapped everyone out of their tasks.

“Alex, get the front door. Charles, take that old cardigan off it makes you look a mess.” Katherine called, all the while scrambling out of her apron.

Alex walked slowly to the door, took a second to steady himself and finally opened it. Almost before he could register what was in front of him the tiny figure of Katie came thundering towards, enveloping his legs in a hug as she couldn’t reach any higher.

“Hi Sweetie.” Alex said while lifting up his daughter.

“Hi Daddy, did you miss me?”

“Of course I did.” Alex smiled. “Have you been good?”

Alex watched as his daughter sheepishly looked towards Isabel. “Have I mommy?”

Isabel looked sternly at her daughter. “Well you didn’t eat all of your dinner but I think that was down to the excitement of wanting to see daddy again.”

It was then that Alex realised that Diane and Philip Evans were still standing behind Isabel on the door step.

“Mr and Mrs Evans, I’m so sorry please come in.” Alex stepped back to allow everyone to come in.

“Alex we have asked you, for a number of years, to call us Diane and Philip.” Diane smiled at Alex. “Now might be a good time to start.”

“Ok Mrs Evans.” Alex blushed at his mistake. “Sorry…Diane.”

Alex heard a noise behind him that caused him to turn round. As he turned he saw his mother and father standing further down the hallway, his father with a protective arm around his mother.

Alex could see his mother trying to hold back the tears for fear of upsetting Katie. He needed to get the introductions over with as quickly as possible. “Mom, Dad I would like you to meet your granddaughter Katie.”

Alex could feel Katie trying to wriggle out of his grasp so he lowered her to the floor where she immediately moved towards his parents. It was at this stage that he realised that Katie had been holding a piece of paper all this time.

As Katie reached Katherine Whitman she held out the paper. It was now apparent the piece of paper was a picture. “I drew this for you and Grandpa Whitman.”

Katherine leaned down and picked up the small child in her arms, no longer able to hold back her affection or her tears. Alex stepped forward worried his young daughter wouldn’t understand the tears. Alex should have known better.

Katie gently wiped at her grandmothers face. “Don’t cry Grandma.” Katie turned to look at Diane Evans. “I also made Grandma Evans cry.” Katie turned back. “Are you happy as well?”

Katherine squeezed her granddaughter. “This is the happiest day of my life.”

“Shall we go inside.” Charles Whitman pointed to the kitchen. “I think we have a lot to talk about.”

As everyone moved into the kitchen the two mothers gave each other a warm hug, causing Katie to giggle. Charles and Philip just smiled and exchanged a firm handshake. Finally Alex and Isabel made their way inside. As they passed close to one another their hands briefly touched sending electricity coursing through their bodies.

As Isabel went to move to the other side of the kitchen table she suddenly felt Alex’s hand entwine with hers. “Sit with me?”

It was a tentative question not a statement. Isabel’s heart soared that he didn’t appear to hate her for what she had done. She simply smiled and nodded.



To be continued…

[StargazerUK]

Chapter 13


Alex watched as Isabel pulled the quilt up to Katie’s chin, ensuring their daughter was tucked up in bed, nice and snug. Isabel wrapped her arms around herself in an effort to keep warm. It had turned quite cool as the night had worn on and the short walk from the car into the house had chilled her to the bone.

Isabel pulled the bedroom door almost closed, leaving a gap so that the light from the hallway would leach into the dark bedroom. She gave Alex a soft smile as the two of them made their way downstairs.

“Thanks for seeing us home.” Isabel said, once they were out of ear shot of her bedroom. “I’m not sure I could have gotten Katie to go to bed without you here, despite how tired she was.”

Alex nodded. “It must have been one amazing day for the little lady.”

“For all of us,” Isabel added. “Not least you.”

Alex eyed Isabel for a moment. He was still unsure how he was supposed to react to what was happening between the two of them. When the four parents had sat themselves down at the kitchen table earlier he couldn’t prevent his natural reaction of wanting to cling to Isabel, to not let her leave his side. Of course once they had sat down there had been an uncomfortable silence as both he and Isabel tried to understand what significance, if any, there had been to him making a grab for her.

“Would you like a drink?” Isabel broke into Alex’s thoughts.

“Coffee,” Alex replied. “…Please.” He added hurriedly, realising he had forgotten his manners.

“Coffee?” Isabel repeated. “What happened to Orange soda or Grape juice?”

Alex sat himself down at the table. “I’m older now,” He smiled. “If not wiser.”

“But you still drink Orange soda.” It was more a statement than a question.

“God yes!” Alex exclaimed. “All the time but as I don’t have any vices I decided I had to do something a little racy.”

Isabel was still preparing the cups. “Coffee…a little racy?”

“You know what I mean.” Alex smiled. “Living life on the edge.”

That comment caused them both to laugh.

“So we are not talking decaf.” Isabel questioned.

Alex shook his head. “I’ll have you know I am not averse to having a hit of espresso every once in a while.”

“Sort of rebel without a cause.” Isabel offered.

That comment caused Alex to blush and look away.

“I’m…I’m sorry.” Isabel stammered. “I didn’t mean to embarrass you or make you feel uncomfortable, I was only joking.”

Alex stood up shaking his head. “No it’s nothing. It isn’t anything you said, not directly anyway.”

“Then what?”

Alex sighed. “It’s something Laura used to say to me whenever we had an argument.” Alex felt uncomfortable looking at Isabel while he explained himself. “It’s just that sometimes she would say I was a ‘Rebel without a clue’, it doesn’t matter.” Alex fully turned away.

“She what!” Isabel almost exploded. “What do you mean it doesn’t matter?”

Alex turned back towards Isabel when he heard her reaction to his words. “It seemed I wasn’t always forceful enough for Laura, she said it was one of my traits.”

“And you let her say those things?” Isabel could no longer help herself.

“Look Iz, I’m not the walk over you once knew.” Alex suddenly turned defensive. “Laura might have expressed an opinion that I might not have always been as forceful as she would have liked but equally I sometimes found that she was too forceful for my liking and I would tell her so, it was a two way street!”

“I’m sorry Alex. I didn’t mean to imply anything.” Isabel said ruefully.

Alex suddenly realised he was taking out his frustration on Isabel, his agitation soon subsided. “No I am sorry Iz. It isn’t your fault, you don’t deserve me ranting at you.” Alex retook his seat. “I’m just tired of ‘Nice’ being a dirty word. So what if I am not someone who is destined to set the world a light. There are far worse things to be in this world than nice.”

Isabel placed the two coffees on the kitchen table and took her seat opposite Alex. “It sounds like you are up on your soap box…not that I mind.” She quickly added.

Alex bowed his head for a moment. “It seems I have been doing that a lot lately if you ask Liz and Maria.”

“Really?” Isabel was confused. “How so?”

Alex raised his head to look at Isabel. “Back when you knew me I think we both knew I was a little backward in coming forward.”

“There’s something to be said for not being too forceful or aggressive.” Isabel interjected. “I’ve had my fair share of forceful men…” Isabel trailed off when she realised what she had just said.

“Alex I don’t mean…”

“Isabel you don’t have to explain yourself to me.” Alex cut in quickly.

“No Alex! That’s the point I do.” Isabel said sternly. “Whatever else I am or whatever else I have done I am the mother of you child and it’s important to me that you know what sort of mother I am and how I have been bringing up your daughter. I would never want you to think I have had a stream of men over the last five years or that anyone who wasn’t suitable had come within one hundred yards of Katie.”

“Isabel I think we have strayed a little off topic but as you have brought it up I wouldn’t mind hearing about you and Katie but only if you’re happy to tell me.” Alex smiled. “But for the record I wouldn’t doubt for one second that you wouldn’t do anything and everything to keep Katie safe and give her the best life possible.”

“Do you want to do this now?” Isabel asked tentatively. “I’m ready so if you want me to tell you everything I am happy to do it whenever you feel ready.”

“Well our parents looked set for the night, what with my father breaking out the scotch and our mothers discussing Katie and her future I think they might be busy for some time.” Alex offered.

“I think Max and Liz are giving us a wide berth as they knew we were telling our parents tonight so I wouldn’t imagine seeing them until quite late, if at all.” Isabel added.

“Isabel I don’t expect anything from you.” Alex took a sip of his coffee. “You don’t have to explain yourself to me.”

“And if I want to explain myself?”

“Then I am all ears. No pun intended.” Alex joked.

“The only thing, Alex, is that if we do this I want us to do it properly.” Alex frowned in confusion so Isabel continued. “I mean if we do this I want us both to be honest, not to worry about upsetting or offending one another.”

“You mean me.” Alex was beginning to understand. “You’re telling me not to hold anything back.”

Isabel nodded slowly. “I can only imagine how you felt about what I did and I don’t want you holding back on my account.”

“Don’t worry I won’t.” Alex said sternly.

“Oh!” Isabel was taken aback my Alex’s forceful tone. “Alright then.”

Isabel steeled herself for the task ahead. She had waited five years for this conversation and her only concern was whether the tenuous friendship she currently held with Alex would survive the night.

“First things first I have to tell you that the night of the Prom was the greatest night of my life.” Isabel began. “I have never been more at home or happy. In fact other than the birth of Katie I have not felt anything remotely close to that since.”

“Well in the spirit of the honesty we promised each other I have to say that from my point of view it was the greatest night of my life.” Isabel could feel her face blush. “I had dreamt about spending time with you for years and we both know I had been dreaming about dancing with you. Despite my prior reservations the time we spent at the Prom and immediately afterwards were, until today, the highlight of my life.”

Isabel smiled. “We’ll need to make sure we don’t get a mutual admiration society going.”

The look on Alex’s face caused Isabel to stop smiling. “I think any thought of a mutual admiration society went out the window with what happened the next morning.”

Isabel felt her newly found optimism fade. When she spoke her voice was little more than a whisper. “As strange as it sounds and despite the fact that we took precautions I knew when I woke up in the early hours of the morning that I was pregnant. After my initial reaction of shock the next thing I felt was sheer joy and happiness. I knew that if I was to become pregnant and have a child I would only ever want it to be with you.”

“So what changed?” Alex said firmly.

“As you slept so peacefully I realised that although it had taken me a while to recognize it you had become the most important thing in my life. If I hadn’t already known it my reaction to finding out I was pregnant with our child confirmed it for me.” Isabel’s already saddened face became more sorrowful. “That’s when I realised that neither of us was ready for a child. I knew you would be happy for us and that you would stand by me but I began to realise what else I would have been taking away from you. I would have been making choices for you rather than allowing you to make choices for yourself. We both know you would have left school and found a job to support both Katie and I.”

“And that would have been a bad thing?” Alex questioned.

“Of course not.” Isabel fired back. “Not the sentiment behind it anyway but you have too much to offer to just throw it all away. Alex a mind is a terrible thing to waste and your mind in particular has far too much to offer to just give it all up with a noble gesture.”

“You think I would have just been being noble by offering to take care of you and Katie?”

“No Alex that’s not what I am saying…I’m not sure I am going to be able to get it across to you.” Isabel let out a heavy sigh. “Rightly or wrongly I decided that if I left that very morning I could look after Katie allowing you to do what was necessary to lay the ground work for your future happiness. It was never my intention to keep Katie from you. I know it might not be apparent now but back then I was scared and I panicked.”

Alex ran his hands through his hair as he tried to take it all in. “But why did you leave that very morning, without as much as a goodbye?”

“Are you kidding me?” Isabel recoiled at her own fierceness. “I mean look at it from my point of view. I had just realised I was pregnant and everything I ever wanted was lying asleep beside me on the bed. If I had allowed you to wake up, if I had looked into your eyes one more time I would never have found the strength to leave.”

“I wish you hadn’t left.” Alex’s voice was barely audible. “I think I will wake every day for the rest of my life with an ache of regret that you never woke me that morning.”

Isabel’s face creased in tears. “I know and I’m sorry.”

Alex stood up as Isabel raced from the room. “Isabel!” He called after his distraught friend and was somewhat relieved when she darted into the downstairs bathroom rather than out the front door.

As he stood in the hallway Alex could hear Isabel crying uncontrollably on the other side of the door. He waited for a few moments and decided it wasn’t a bad thing that things were coming out the way they were. If he wanted any sort of relationship with Isabel in the future they both had to face their demons.

Alex slowly and silently made his way back into the kitchen and sat back down at the table. If he was honest with himself, now that he was operating with hindsight, things were pretty much as he thought. It had never occurred to him that Isabel might have left because she was pregnant, not least because they used a condom, but once he knew about the birth of Katie everything else was much as he would have assumed. If Isabel had taken Katie from him it would only have been for his benefit or Katie’s, no other reason.

Alex’s head turned towards the hallway when he heard the bathroom door unlock. He watched as a tear stained Isabel came back into view. “I’m sorry.” Isabel whispered. “I’m feeling a little foolish.”

Alex offered Isabel a soft smile. “Why? I think it’s understandable that we have both become a little overwrought with what we are discussing.”

“Yes but you aren’t the one who did the drama queen and locked herself in the bathroom.” Isabel mumbled through her disintegrating tissue.

“Only because you got to the bathroom before I did.” Alex joked. “If I thought I could beat you in a foot race I would have been off down that hallway like a bullet out of a gun.”

Isabel laughed as she sat back down at the table.

Alex looked down at the mug that sat in front of him. “My coffee’s gone cold.”

Without thinking Isabel reached over and gave the coffee mug a wave of her hand. As she removed it a waft of steam appeared over the now hot coffee.

“Thanks.” Alex lifted the cup to his lips.

“None.” Isabel stated out of the blue.

Alex placed the cup back on the table, confused by Isabel’s comment. “What?”

“None.” Isabel repeated. “The number of men I have been out with since I left that morning.”

Alex tried to show no reaction to her statement but he knew deep down that part of him was jumping for joy. Although he was still unsure of his true feelings for Isabel he knew he wouldn’t have liked the thought of some other man getting to know his Isabel.

“One.” Alex replied. “And we didn’t have sex.”

“What!” Isabel exclaimed a little too loudly. “What do you mean no sex?”

“One!” Alex repeated. “As in I have been out with one person since that night and as you started the whole being honest thing I am letting you know Laura and I never slept together. She was saving herself for the wedding night.”

Alex watched as Isabel tried and failed to hold in her emotions. If he lived to be 100 Alex would never have believed he would hear such a belly laugh as he was currently hearing from Isabel. In fact he was sure no one had ever seen or heard Isabel let herself go the way she was doing now.

Although he couldn’t help but smile Alex decided it was slightly unfair for Isabel to be so judgemental of Laura and her desire to remain chaste until her wedding night.

“I’m sorry Alex. I promise I am not being mean to Laura. After what happened to us I of all people understand a persons desire to wait until they are ready. It was just the way you said it.” Isabel was still holding her sides, which it would seem were now aching after all the laughing she had just been through. “Are we still OK?” Isabel’s smile had disappeared. “You and I?”

“Yes of course but I think I should go.” Alex said standing up. “You’re had a long day.”

Isabel followed Alex towards the front door. “Will you be round tomorrow? You will be the first words on Katie’s lips in the morning.”

“Sure.” Alex nodded. “If that’s OK.”

“Of course.” Isabel smiled as Alex stepped outside. “And if you see my parents tell them they have to be up for work tomorrow so not to stay out too late.”

“I will.” Alex waved as he walked out to his car.

Despite the ups and downs the pair had just been through Isabel couldn’t help but kick herself as she closed the front door. After all they had discussed the thing that was foremost in her mind was that Alex hadn’t kissed her goodnight, not even a peck on the cheek. “Get over yourself.” Isabel chastised herself.


To be continued…

[StargazerUK]

Chapter 14


Isabel slowly opened her eyes as the sunlight that was pouring through the slightly open curtains bathed her face in a soft light. As she allowed herself to enjoy the warm, comforting feeling of waking up in her old bed she knew something wasn’t quite right.

Isabel quickly sat upright on the bed as she looked around for Katie. The fold down bed that had been placed in her old room to allow both mother and daughter to sleep side by side was empty. Where Katie had been laying earlier was a piece of paper. Isabel’s heart raced as she reached over to pick up the note.

After reading the note Isabel collapsed back onto the bed unsure whether to laugh or cry. It seems Katie had woken up early and Diane, Isabel’s mother, had taken her downstairs to play, allowing Isabel a well earned rest.

Suddenly Isabel felt the tears welling up in her eyes. She sat forward, swinging her legs over the edge of the bed. Isabel had been crying a lot lately, which completely went against her ice princess façade. It had only been happening since she had decided it was time to tell Alex about Katie. You didn’t have to be a genius to work out that Isabel’s tears and her disclosure to Alex were connected but whether the tears were down to guilt, relief or both was yet to be decided.

After wiping away at her tears Isabel headed towards the shower. It was a little after 8am and Alex would be round soon to see Katie so she had to go and make herself presentable. Isabel shook her head as she stepped into the hot water that pounded her body. ‘Who was she kidding?’ she thought to herself. ‘Make herself presentable’, when was she anything but?

Twenty minutes later Isabel closed the bedroom door behind her and made her way downstairs. She still wasn’t fully dressed but she figured she still had a short while before Alex showed up so she could have a cup of coffee and spend sometime with Katie before their visitor arrived. Max had seen her in her dressing gown on many an occasion so it would be nothing new.

Isabel came striding into the kitchen where she came to a crashing halt. Her perfect morning had just been slammed into a brick wall as she saw Alex sitting at the breakfast table with Katie sitting on his lap. It wasn’t the thought of having Alex in the kitchen that caused Isabel concern but the fact that her dressing gown hardly covered the top part of her body and left her legs completely exposed.

After pulling her short dressing gown tightly around her Isabel couldn’t help but reach to her check what state her hair was in. Isabel simply didn’t have enough hands to cope with this situation and it would have been too obvious to turn and run. With the thought that her outfit was too short; she didn’t have enough clothes on underneath her aforementioned dressing gown; her hair was still wet from her shower and she didn’t have any make up on; Isabel quickly moved to the table and sat down.

“Hi.” Isabel managed to squeeze out despite her self induced awkwardness.

“Good morning.” Alex smirked. He knew what was running through Isabel’s mind.

“I didn’t think you would be here so early,” Isabel smiled nervously. “Not that I mind.”

“I think we have our mom’s to thank for that.” Alex offered. At Isabel’s confused faced he elaborated. “I think it is safe to say our parents, and our mothers in particular, have had a long hard chat about you, me and Katie.”

Isabel wasn’t sure she was happy where this was going.

“Firstly your mom has decided, quite rightly in my opinion, that now that you are home you need to be looked after and allowed to take a break from all the obvious hard work you have put in over the last five years.” Alex continued. “Secondly my mom has decided I need to step up to the plate when it comes to Katie and to allowing you to have a rest. With that in mind my mom turned me out of bed at 07:30 this morning with a view to getting ready and being over here bright and early to take Katie off your hands.”

“Alex I appreciate the thought behind this but I really don’t need…” Isabel was stopped by the feeling she was being watched. She glanced towards the doorway that led to the family room to see Max and Liz trying to appear inconspicuous. Isabel couldn’t help but smile. “What exactly are you two doing?”

Liz stepped into the kitchen, dragging a sheepish looking Max by the hand. “Sorry! We weren’t trying to listen in on your conversation but when we saw the two of you were talking we weren’t sure whether or not to come in.”

“Of course you can come in.” Isabel said warmly. “Alex and I were only chatting, nothing secret.”

“Thank God!” Came a loud voice over Max’s shoulder.

Suddenly the tall, rough figure of Michael came charging into the room heading straight for the fridge. He was quickly followed by the much smaller figure of Maria and with the look on her face the rest of the friends knew what was coming.

“Are you kidding me?” Maria asked the back of Michael’s head. The front of his head was now in the food cupboard, having moved on from the fridge.

Michael turned to look at Maria. He managed a “Hmmm??” as his mouth had an over sized cookie sticking out of it.

“Our friends are trying to reconnect and catch up,” Maria waved her hand in the general direction of the kitchen table. “And all you can think about is food!”

Michael swallowed the last of the cookie. “How does my eating impinge on Alex and Isabel?”

The mouths of all four onlookers and Maria fell open at that. “Impinged?” Maria repeated in amazement.

“It means impose, encroach or invade.” Michael said casually.

“I know what it means!” Maria nearly exploded. “I didn’t know you did!”

“Blame him.” Michael nodded towards Alex. “It was Alex who gave me the word of the day toilet paper at Christmas.”

Alex simply smiled and shrugged as everyone now looked at him.

“I ran out of the normal stuff so...”

“The reason it might…” Maria hurriedly cut in before Michael could expand on his story. “Impinge on Alex and Isabel is that they may have been having a private discussion and the last thing they would want is you lumbering in with your size 11 boots!”

Maria was set to continue when a little voice defused the situation in a second.

“I like Aunty Maria and Uncle Michael, they’re funny.”

“You’re right Sweetie.” Alex squeezed Katie who was still wrapped up in his arms. “They are always playing.”

Both Maria and Michael looked embarrassed to have been caught arguing in front of little Katie. “Sorry.” They both said meekly to Isabel.

“It’s fine, really.” Isabel reassured them both. “I think, as young as Katie is, she already has an understanding of your relationship.”

“Do you hear that Michael.” Maria turned to her tall but endearing other half. “Katie, who is nearly five, has an understanding of our relationship.”

“So what do you guys have planned?” Isabel asked, hoping to change the subject.

“We were hoping to grab Alex and Katie and head over to the park. Kyle and some of his friends are going to have a practice game and we thought we would go along and hurl abuse.” Michael grinned. “I mean offer encouragement.” He quickly corrected himself having seen the smiling face of Katie beaming at him.

“What Michael means,” Max said cutting in. “Is that we were hoping to spend some quality time with our niece and to allow Alex to spend time with his daughter while you girls have a well earned rest.”

“Boy, Liz has got you so whipped.” Michael whispered.

Unfortunately Michael’s whispers were never too subtle so everyone heard him. Liz narrowed her gaze at Michael, which caused him to shift uncomfortably.

“How about it Isabel?” Liz asked, turning her gaze from Michael. “We can spend some time catching up while the guys can wait on Katie hand and foot.”

“Is that OK?” Isabel asked Alex.

“We’d love to go to the park wouldn’t we honey.” Alex started to tickle Katie causing the young girl to squirm in fits of laughter. “We can meet you back at the Crash for lunch?”

“Sounds great.” Isabel nodded.

Alex lowered Katie to the floor. “Run and get your coat sweetie, it’s hanging in the hall.”

“I know daddy.” The little girl cried as she ran out into the hall.

Within a couple of minutes the boys were all set to leave with their precious escort and head on over to the park. The girls watched as what appeared to be a military operation kicked into action as the boys crossed the street with Katie. With Alex holding onto Katie’s hand with a vice like grip they were flanked on either side by both Max and Michael, each of which had taken a position several yards down the side walk. With the road clear the two flanking boys stepped out to block any sudden approaching traffic while Alex guided Katie to the other sidewalk.

“You do know that with them three watching your daughter it’s doubtful that even a drop of rain will come into contact with her even in a torrential down pour.” Liz joked.

Isabel nodded. “It’s one of the many things I was looking forward to with coming home, having you guys help watch out for Katie.”

“And for you.” Maria added.

The three girls made their way back into the kitchen and sat down.

“Where’s Tess?” Isabel enquired.

“She’ll be about later.” Liz replied. “She said she had some errands to run.”

“That’s probably the only reason why Kyle has the time to go and play football.” Maria added with a grin.

“So how are you?” Liz said without any preamble.

Isabel smiled softly. “Confused.” She finally stated.

“How are things with Alex?” Maria reached for Isabel’s hand.

“Not as good as I had hoped for but better than I deserve.” Isabel said mournfully.

“Isabel don’t say such things.” Maria squeezed her hand. “I can’t speak for what you hoped for but I know what you deserve and that is to be happy.”

“With Alex.” Liz added.

Tears slowly began to trickle down Isabel’s face. It was apparent she had been trying to hold it together since the topic of conversation had started but her resolve had now caved in and the tears began to flow. “I don’t know what I was thinking coming back.”

“Oh Isabel.” Liz came round and wrapped a loving arm around the tall girl. “Don’t ever say that. Coming home was the right thing to do and we are all very glad you did.”

“But what happens now?” Isabel managed to say in mid breakdown. “I didn’t know it would happen like this.”

Liz and Maria exchanged a look. Something had happened that they weren’t aware of. “What is it Isabel?” Maria asked tentatively. “What’s happened?”

Both girls could see it was difficult for Isabel to talk about whatever it was that was upsetting her but finally she spoke. “I didn’t realise I would still love him and want him so much.”

Liz gave her friend a squeeze. “That’s not a problem Isabel. Loving and wanting Alex isn’t a problem.”

Liz’s word caused Isabel to be over come by another wave of tears.

Finally, after several minutes, Isabel tried to regain her composure. She took a deep breath to steady herself. “But that’s the problem.” She looked from one friend to the other. “He’s moved on without me!”



To be continued…

[StargazerUK]

This isn't too long a part but as it is only three days since I posted the previous chapter I hope you will forgive me. Happy Thanksgiving to our American friends, being English it's all lost on me LOL. Have a great day, David / StargazerUK


Chapter 15


“Oh you silly girl!”

Maria’s unsympathetic words caused Isabel to turn and look at her friend with a surprised look on her face.

Maria continued. “How can you be a superior being from a different galaxy and not know what is right under your nose?”

“Maria!” Liz exclaimed before turning to look at Isabel. “Despite our friends complete lack of tact, which I put down to her spending way too much time with Michael, she’s right.”

Maria reached out and tucked a stray strained of hair behind Isabel’s ear. “Alex hasn’t moved on. That’s the point, Alex stayed still!”

“But he was about to get married.” Isabel said tentatively.

Maria threw her hands up into the air and walked away from the two girls. Suddenly she turned round and glared at Liz. “You tell her because I will only end up shaking her violently.”

“Two things.” Liz began. “Firstly you need to switch to decaf.” Liz then turned away from Maria and back to Isabel. “She’s right Isabel. We never knew why you left and we didn’t know if you were coming back. It was years before Alex spoke to another female socially apart from Maria, Tess or I.”

Maria came back to the table and sat down. “It was all we could do to get him to go out in daylight hours let alone socialise. Finally Laura came on the scene. I say came on the scene but it took months of persistent badgering before he even agreed to have a cup of coffee. Laura was a bright girl and she knew what Alex had to offer, which is why she pursued him.”

Liz rubbed Isabel’s back in a comforting gesture. “He didn’t move on Iz, he thought you left him behind.”

“So other than discovering I am giving blonds a bad name with my lack of awareness what do I do now?” Isabel asked. “He hasn’t exactly shown any interest in me.”

“Give it time.” Maria offered. “This is Alex we are talking about. He’s not likely to rugby tackle you to the floor and have his wicked way with you. We all know he is more likely to sit down with you on the couch to watch TV, allowing you to curl up in his arms and stay that way for hours on end”

Isabel didn’t doubt she wanted nothing more in this life than to be wrapped in Alex’s arms again.

“Isabel, you go and get dressed and we’ll put the kettle on.” Liz smiled at her tall friend.

After a brief hug for her two closest friends Isabel made her way upstairs to get fully dressed. She had spent much more time than she intended in her skimpy dressing gown and she would be much happier in normal clothes.

“Can you believe her?” Maria whispered. “How can she not know how Alex feels about her?”

“Oh I don’t know.” Liz smiled. “Probably the same way you denied anything was happening between you and Michael when we first found out about the alien secret. And probably the same way I used to deny my true feelings for Max before realising how stupid I was being. You can’t fight what’s meant to be and Alex and Isabel are meant to be.”

Liz placed the cups of coffee on the table. “She’s scared Maria and so is Alex. Both are worried they will get hurt again and both are terrified this will be their last chance, if they don’t get it right this time they’ll be lost to one another forever.”

“So what do we do to make sure that doesn’t happen? That they don’t get lost.” Maria asked nervously.

“Simple,” Liz smiled. “We give them a guiding hand.”

Liz offered a cup of coffee to Maria. “That’s yours…its decaf.”




“It’s your turn.” Max said firmly.

“No it’s not!” Michael replied, equally firmly.

“I went on the swings with her so it’s your turn to go on the rocking horse.” Max tried to hide a smirk. “Michael, it’s our four year old niece and she wants someone to sit on the rocking horse with her…get on!”

“Look man. She’s my family and I love her and I would willingly take a bullet for her but I don’t want to get on the rocking horse.” Michael whispered. He could see Katie eyeing them both silently.

“Why not?” Max questioned.

Michael turned his body so Katie could no longer hear her uncles talking. “I’ve been shouting at Kyle at every opportunity over the last five years, whenever he has taken part in sports...”

“And?”

“And if he sees me in a child’s playground sitting on a rocking horse he will never let me live it down.” Michael finished

“Hi Sweetie, are you OK?” Alex’s words to his daughter cut in on Max and Michael’s hushed conversation.

Katie nodded with a broad smile. “I’m waiting for Uncle Michael to take me on the rocking horse.”

The two men turned to look at Alex. Alex hadn’t seen what had gone on while he was away getting drinks for them all but with both Max and Michael looking a little reticent he could guess what was happening.

“Here honey.” Alex put the drinks down on the picnic table and moved towards his daughter. “I’ll take you on the rocking horse.”

Before Alex could reach Katie Michael stepped in between the father and daughter, initially looking at Alex. “I’ll get this.” As Alex looked on Michael advanced on his little princess and dropped on one knee.

“I’m sorry Katie.” Michael spoke softly to his young charge. “I was being silly with Uncle Max. Can I still take you on the rocking horse?”

No sooner had he finished his apology than Katie threw herself into his arms, he had his answer. Michael picked up Katie and advanced on the rocking horse.

“When you have finished with Uncle Michael on the rocking horse I will take you on the slide.” Max called after Katie.

“Then we can watch Uncle Kyle.” The little girl enthused.

Ten minutes later Katie was sitting in the sand pit digging to her hearts content. She had sat facing the playing field so she could wave back every time Uncle Kyle waved to her.

Alex, Max and Michael had taken seats at the picnic table, all facing in the direction of the sand pit so they could keep an eye on Katie.

“What on earth was I thinking?” Michael broke the silence. “Do I really care more about what Kyle might think of me sitting on a child’s playground ride then making Katie happy?”

“No Michael you don’t, that’s why you got on the ride with Katie.” Alex offered his friend morale support. “This is new to all of us but I’m pretty sure if we do what feels right we’ll be fine.”

“You seem to have taken to fatherhood like a duck to water.” Max observed.

“That’s the perfect analogy Max.” Alex smiled. “What is it they say about ducks and swans? Gliding smoothly across the water while underneath, where no one can see, they are paddling for all they are worth just trying to stay afloat.”

“But you’re not like that.” Michael stated.

“No I’m not.” Alex agreed. “But that is down to Isabel.”

Michael was blatantly confused by that comment so Alex continued. “Isabel has taken everything upon herself so there’s not any real pressure on me to do anything more than love Katie.”

“I’m sure that wasn’t her intention.” Max said softly.

Alex smiled. “I’m sure as well and I wasn’t finding fault with Isabel, just stating how things are.”

“So what happens now?” Michael questioned.

“I don’t know.” Alex stared at his daughter as she continued to play in the sand. Then he shook his head as though to knock himself out of a stupor. “I mean I want to be part of Katie’s life and I will do anything I can to make sure she is happy but as for where we go from here I simply don’t know.”

Alex stepped up from the table and moved over to join his daughter in the sand.

Max watched as his close friend began to fill in the hole that Katie had been digging.

“What are we going to do?” Michael cut in on Max’s thoughts.

“Something I never thought I would hear myself say.” Max looked to Michael. “Some match making!”

“Oh good.” Michael replied. “Then I can go and get my nails done.”

Max was pleased to see his big friend smiling when he turned to look at him. Then it was agreed. Max and Michael were going to do a little meddling to make sure Isabel and Alex ended up where they were meant to be…together!



To be continued…

[StargazerUK]

Chapter 16


“Right! You remember what we discussed?”

“Yes.” Maria nodded.

“And you understand what it means?”

“I’m not an idiot Liz!” Maria replied sternly.

“That’s not what I meant.” Liz shot back. “I simply mean that subtlety is the key here. If Alex thinks we are trying to interfere he will simply walk away and have nothing to do with us. We need to slowly bring him to his senses and before he knows what’s hit him he will know his true feelings for Isabel.”

“And you’re sure this is the right thing to do?”

Liz frowned. “Why wouldn’t it be, I don’t understand.”

“I mean if we are both so sure that Alex truly loves Isabel and Isabel truly loves Alex why are we getting involved.” Maria questioned.

“Time!” Liz exclaimed. “Isabel and Katie are due to go back to New York soon. Don’t forget Maria that their life is in New York despite what has gone on in the last few days.”

“So we need to give them a helping hand.” Maria finally understood.

“Exactly.” Liz smiled. “If they didn’t have feelings for each other we wouldn’t try to force them together but as we both know they do have feelings for each but they are just scared then it is time for us to lend a helping hand.”

“Do you two intend on knocking on the door at any stage or were you just hoping I would happen upon you?”

Alex’s voice made both girls jump. How much of their conversation had he heard? And more to the point, why was his voice coming from behind them?

Liz and Maria turned to see Alex standing with a bag of groceries a few yards back down the path.

“Where have you been?” Maria questioned.

Alex pointed to the big brown bag that sat in his arms. “My mom has become all obsessive about what Katie might want whenever she comes over so I have had to make several trips to the store to pick up a few bits.”

“You didn’t take your car?” Liz asked, trying to work out how they hadn’t heard his approach.

“No.” Alex shook his head. “I needed time to think so I walked.”

“Think about what?” Maria quickly asked.

Liz sent her friend a glare, which was missed by Maria as she was trying not to wince at her unsubtle question. ‘Liz won’t be happy’ she thought.

“Stuff.” Alex failed to elaborate as he brushed by the girls with his front door key in his hand.

Both girls watched as he opened the front door and stepped inside. Neither girl moved until Alex waved his hand in the direction of the kitchen. “Are you coming in?”




“So you understand?”

“Yes.” Michael sighed. “I’m not an idiot!”

“That’s not what I was implying.” Max grimaced. “It’s just that we don’t have time to be subtle. We need to sit Isabel down and put her straight.”

“You think subtle is a non-starter.” Michael questioned.

“Isabel’s too sharp for subtle, she’ll know what is going on before we have made any headway.” Max explained. “If it was Alex we could use subtlety as he is so trusting and good natured.”

Michael scratched his head. “So if you are saying Alex is nice and trusting what are you saying about Isabel?”

“I’m saying Isabel is an alien hybrid who has spent her entire life looking over her shoulder and that she was taught to trust no one.” Max spoke softly. “That is why it is so important we get her back together with Alex. Not only is Alex the right man for Isabel and our closest friend but if this doesn’t work Isabel will never let another man in the way she did with Alex.”

Max was surprised when Michael started to nod vigorously. “Now I get it.” Michael smiled. “So what do we do?”

“You can start by formulating your plan out of the earshot of your intended target.”

Both men watched as Isabel slowly walked into the kitchen with a slight smile on her face. She caught both boys out as she moved from one brother to the next, giving each a gentle kiss on the cheek.

“Is this some sort of a trick?” Michael asked cautiously.

“I don’t understand what you mean.” Isabel smiled as she took a seat at the table.

“Well…” Max began. “You just heard us trying to formulate a plan to get you and Alex back together and your reaction in the past would have been to put us both in hospital but now all we get is a kiss and a smile…Not that we are complaining.” Max added hurriedly.

“It’s simple really.” Isabel spoke matter-of-factly. “Not too much has changed round here which means that you, Michael, Maria and Liz are as loving and concerned as you have always been. I have no doubt that at this very moment Liz and Maria are hatching some plan to influence Alex into getting back with me. Meanwhile my two brothers are on the other side of town from their girlfriends trying to do the same…if a little less successfully.”

“Why less successfully?” Michael enquired

“Well I am sure Alex never caught the two of them hatching a plan where they could be found and over heard, girls aren’t that stupid!”




“So what exactly where you two girls doing standing on my doorstep? Other than being oblivious to the rest of the world.” Alex asked as he placed their drinks on the table. “You’re not planning something are you?”

“No!” Both girls said in unison. “Why would you think that?” Maria added.

“Oh I don’t know.” Alex smiled as he sat down. “Maybe the fact that you both love me might have something to do with it.”

“Well of course we love you.” Liz’s voice didn’t sound as nonchalant as she had hoped. “We were just coming over to see you.”

“And you don’t have any ulterior motive for coming over?” Alex eyed both girls suspiciously.

“You’ve been busy.” Liz quickly blurted out. “Yes! We’ve been trying to spend some time with you recently but when we call you’re not in.”

“Things have been hectic.” Alex said ruefully, his bright face now looking troubled.

“I can’t take this anymore.” Maria pushed her chair back and stepped up from the table. “I’m not pussy footing around like someone has died…someone hasn’t died! In fact it’s the very opposite we have someone back. Not only do we have someone back but we have a new addition, a new family member that not only do we all love but that lets us know that we are capable of a happy normal life.” Maria advance on Alex. “And I am not going to let you ruin it!”

Alex never reacted. Other than his Isabel no other people knew him better in this world than the two women currently with him in his kitchen. The instant he rounded the corner and he saw the two of them standing on his doorstep he knew why they were there, it was the reason he loved.

Maria retook her seat across from Alex and the three friends remained in silence for several long minutes.

“Do you love her?” Liz asked softly.

Alex glanced at his friend and it was then that Liz saw the tears glistening in his eyes. “More than life itself.” He whispered.

“Then go to her.” Liz continued. “She’s waiting for you.”

Alex dropped his gaze and shook his head ever so slightly.

Maria reached and took her friends hand. “We know you are scared Alex but so is she.”

“Scared?” Alex repeated. He gave Maria a soft smile. “I’m not scared Ria.”

Alex reached with his free hand and took a hold on Liz. “Being scared is least of my worries.”

“Then what is it?” Liz pressed.

“Where do I begin?” Alex questioned. “I spent years pursuing Isabel and she pushed me away but I knew it was the right thing to do. I knew from the very second I laid eyes on her that I would never feel about any other woman the way I feel about her.”

Alex let out a heavy sigh before continuing. “I pray you’ll never experience what I felt that morning when I found out she had left. When I woke up I was the happiest man alive. All of my doubts and uncertainties had been washed away by spending the night in that beautiful creatures arms. I knew my life had meaning and that no matter what else happened in my life I was where I was supposed to be.”

Liz pulled a tissue out of her bag and placed it in front of Alex who now had tears streaming down his face. “But when I realised she was gone it had the reverse effect on me. All my doubts came flooding back and I was just as uncertain as I was before. The only thing that had changed was that I had experienced sheer bliss before it was agonizingly snatched away from me.”

Alex let out a laugh, which caught both girls out. “I should stress at this point I am not referring to the love making that went on that night. Obviously I have nothing to compare it with but I think if making love between two humans is the same as making love with an alien hybrid I don’t think anyone would ever get out of bed.”

Despite the circumstances both girls smiled, finally understanding the reason for Alex’s laugh a moment ago.

Alex released his hold on his girls and wiped his eyes with the tissue Liz had given him. “Having someone love you unconditionally and knowing they will be there for you no matter what happens is what true love is all about. I’m not sure I would survive it a second time round if I were to let Isabel in again only for her to leave.”

“Alex, stand up.” Liz suddenly called.

Despite being unsure what Liz wanted Alex slowly rose to his feet.

Take Maria’s hand. Alex watched as Liz s took hold of his left hand as well as reaching out and taking hold of Maria’s right hand. As Alex gingerly took hold of Maria’s free hand, encompassing the three friends in a circle he looked at Liz with confusion.

“Do you trust Maria and me?” Liz questioned.

Alex simply nodded.

“Will you play a game with me?” Liz continued.

“Liz I’m not sure…”

“Alex, just play the game!” Maria almost shouted at her tall friend. She had no idea what Liz was up to but she knew she must have a plan.

“This is a very simple game.” Liz smiled. “I’ll give you a situation and I want you to tell me the best and worst case scenarios for each one.”

Alex looked confused but as before he nodded his agreement.

“Isabel asks you to the party at the old soap factory.”

Alex hung his head, finally realising how the game works. “Worst case Isabel only wants me there to get information out of me. Best case she was being nice and wanted me there.”

“Isabel comes to you one morning and asks you to kiss her.”

“I knew I shouldn’t have told you about that.” Alex exclaimed.

“Worst case?” Liz pushed.

“Worst case she simply wanted to generate flashes to find where Max was. Best case she wanted to kiss me and it gave her a way of doing that without leaving herself vulnerable.”

“Isabel asks you to ask her to the dance despite the fact that you asked her not to.”

Alex sighed. “Worst case was she simply wanted a friend to go to the dance with…”

“And the reason you know she asked you to go with her, and the reason she slept with you that night?” Liz asked softly.

Alex gave his friend a weak smile. “Because she was finally ready to let someone in and she decided it was me.” Tears began to well up in Alex’s eyes again.

“Now this is going to be the difficult one.” Liz tightened her grip on Alex. “Isabel left the morning after the Prom?”

Alex remained silent.

Liz tugged at her friend’s hand. “Tell me Alex!”

“Worst case…she thought she had made a mistake sleeping with me.” Alex was now allowing the tears to run down his face as they had done earlier.

“And the best case.” Maria questioned.

“She knew she was pregnant and she didn’t want to ruin my life by tying me down so she left.”

Liz broke the circle and clasped both hands over Alex’s face. “Listen to me.” Liz spoke slowly and deliberately. “I am telling you as your friend and as someone who loves you and only wants the best for you. Isabel left because she thought it was the right thing to do, it was the only reason she left. I’m telling you that at worst she made a mistake, just that…a mistake. Now what you need to do is decide if you want to punish her and yourself if she did make a mistake. No one will ever doubt you love Katie and that you will only ever want the best for your daughter. Now is the time to decide what you really want from Isabel and how you will act towards her.”




Isabel strode towards the front door with a spring in her step. She had a long chat with her brothers the night before and she had come away with a renewed confidence. She didn’t know what was going to happen between her and Alex but she now knew she would have to give it her best shot, it was no good feeling sorry for herself. She had gotten herself into this situation and it was down to her to put things right.

She had been about to put on her coat and head on over to the Whitman’s to speak to Alex when the door bell rang, stopping her progress. When she pulled open the front door she found Liz and Maria standing on the step and straight away she knew something was desperately wrong.

“What’s the matter?” Isabel asked, the smile that had graced her lips seconds earlier now gone.

“Isabel we have a bit of bad news.” Liz began. “It’s Alex…”

“Is he alright?” Isabel asked. Concern for Alex her only thought.

“He’s fine Isabel.” Maria cut in.

“Then what is it?” The wait was killing Isabel.

“He’s gone!”



To be continued…

[StargazerUK]

Chapter 17


Alex shifted uncomfortably in his seat. He could never understand why they kept these offices so incredibly hot. As he watched the people going about their normally daily routine he was unsure if he was nervous because of what he was about to do or because of what he had left behind in Roswell.

After checking his watch for the third time in the last five minutes Alex realised there was a delay. Being nervous wasn’t helping him to prepare for what was about to happen but the delay that was now taking place only made things seem ten times worse. In fact he was starting to feel a little sick, which was the last thing he needed right now.

‘Where was Maria with her calming aromas when he needed her?’ He thought to himself. That thought made him smile and he felt a little less apprehensive. That set him to thinking about his friends and his family in an attempt to calm his already fraught nerves. However that line of thinking brought him back, full circle, to thinking about Isabel, which made him nervous again.

Looking down at his hands he could see the sweat glistening on his palms. As uncouth as it was to do Alex wiped his hands on the fabric of his trousers, the last thing he wanted to do was give a bad impression should he need to shake someone’s hand.

Suddenly the door to the office that Alex had been sitting outside of opened and a large, officious looking man stepped out causing Alex to stand up.

“Alex Whitman?” The large man asked.

“Yes.” Alex offered a weak smile.

“We’re ready to see you now.” The man gestured towards the open door. “Please come in.”


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


Liz checked her watch. It was a little after one in the afternoon and she had come round to see how Isabel was doing. After the revelation, that very morning, that Alex had left without telling anyone none of the friends had known what to do.

None of them would ever think that Alex would be mean enough to do this to Isabel as some form of punishment or payback but the fact remained that he left in the earlier hours, the same as Isabel, without a word to anyone, the same as Isabel, and no one knew where he had gone or why, just like Isabel.

Of course Isabel had tried to put a brave face on in but it was heart wrenching to watch as she tried to brush off what had occurred when it was apparent she has steeled herself for one final onslaught on Alex.

Liz, Max, Maria and Michael had all gotten together last night at the Crash to discuss their various strategies to get the wayward couple back together again. A great deal of embarrassment and head hanging had followed when they all discovered how inept they had all been at an alleged, covert operation.

The one thing they were all pleased they could glean from their exploits was it was now apparent that both Alex and Isabel did indeed still having feels for one another and that with the right help and encouragement they could finally mend their broken relationship.

Of course that had all flown out of the window when Liz and Maria had gone round to make sure Alex was set to sit down with Isabel and talk things through. Initially, when they called at the house, they were met by Mrs Whitman but she thought Alex was still in bed so she simply sent the two girls upstairs to wake her lazy son. When they had come back down because Alex was nowhere to be seen they carried out a quick search of the house and discovered Alex still couldn’t be found.

Then Mrs Whitman checked Alex’s room properly and she found a duffle bag was missing and so were some of his clothes. It was true to say that most of his belongings was still in his room but clothes, toiletries and most worryingly pictures were all missing. Finally a check in the garage found that Alex’s car was gone.

That was when Liz and Maria decided it was best to come round to see Isabel and tell her face to face that Alex was gone. They didn’t wan to alarm anyone but if the news needed to be broken then the least they could do was do it face to face.

Of course no one knew what to say after finding out Alex had left so they said very little. Everyone kept quiet when Katie was around but now that Diane Evans and Katherine Whitman had taken their grand-daughter out for a walk it left the Evans house both quiet and almost empty.

Max had let Liz in but, not surprisingly under the circumstances, they couldn’t find the words to comfort one another so they had stood in the hallway for what must have been several minutes with just their foreheads pressed together, taking what they could out of their physical contact. Eventually Max had broken their connection as he went upstairs to get his sister, leaving Liz to take a seat in the kitchen.

Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, Liz heard footsteps approaching the kitchen. Slowly Max made his way into the kitchen followed by an obviously distraught Isabel. Even with her famous alien powers Isabel’s makeup was obviously not her main concern as it was apparent that she had been crying for quite some time, probably since they had all left some hours earlier.

Liz rose from her seat at the table and walked towards Isabel. As soon as she was within reaching distance of her tall friend she wrapped her arms around her and pulled her into a hug. The height difference between the two girls made them an odd sight but that was furthest from either girls mind as Isabel allowed herself to breakdown once again as Liz tightened her grip on the now sobbing girl.

Max shifted in his chair as he felt somewhat uncomfortable under the circumstances. It wasn’t that he was uncomfortable with the girls being so open with their feelings or that he didn’t know what to do, it was simply that he felt as though he was intruding on a very private moment. He loved Liz, Maria and Tess with all of his heart but he knew one of the most important functions the girls performed in his life was to be a friend and a confidant for Isabel.

“Come on Honey, sit yourself down.” Liz guided Isabel to a seat.

“I know this is a really silly question but how are you coping?” Liz offered a weak smile.

“Oh you know.” Isabel shrugged. “Same old, same old.”

“Would you girls like coffee?” Max asked. “Should I put the kettle on?”

“That would be great thanks Max.” Liz smiled at her boyfriend’s thoughtfulness before returning her gaze to Isabel.

“I spoke to the sheriff.” Liz’s words caused Isabel to look up from her hunched position. “I’m sorry Iz but they found Alex’s car at the airport.”

“Can they find where Alex went?” Max interjected before Isabel had a chance to react.

Liz shook her head solemnly. “It was the sheriff playing a hunch that caused him to send a deputy to check the car park at the airport for Alex’s car but with out a good reason he can’t interrogate the passenger manifests to see where Alex might have gone.”

“Surely Alex going missing would be a good enough reason.” Max offered.

“Not if he went of his own free will.” Isabel said softly.

“So what do we do now?” Max asked.

Isabel visibly straightened herself in the chair. “Well I don’t know about you guys but Katie and I are booked on a flight to New York at 2pm tomorrow.”

“What?” Liz exclaimed. Max just stared at his sister in amazement. “You can’t just leave.” Liz continued.

“Don’t worry Liz.” Isabel offered her friend a smile. “It won’t be like last time. I have cards written out with my address, phone number and email for all of you to have. I’ll make sure we come back a couple of times a year to visit and I hope you guys will all take it in turns to come and visit us in New York.”

“But it all seems so sudden.” Liz looked crestfallen.

Isabel reached out and took her friends hand. “Liz I was only ever meant to be back a few days. I have done what I returned to do, tell Alex and everyone else about Katie and to try and get you guys back in our lives, which I hope I have managed.”

“I know.” Liz said sadly. “But with you back and Alex around, we were all hoping…” Liz trailed off.

“That Alex and I would get back together?” Isabel finished for her friend. “Life doesn’t come with any guarantees so I am not sure we will get a happy ending this time round.”

“Do you really have to go?” Max asked.

Isabel nodded. “I need to get on with my life and so do you guys. You have to decide what you are all doing and where you are going.”

“We know.” Max smiled softly. “It’s just with you back and Alex having broken up from Laura it seemed like old times.”

“What about your parents and Alex’s mom and dad?” Liz questioned.

“I’ve spoken to my mom and Katherine Whitman. We are all going round to the Whitman’s for a farewell dinner and they have promised to come and visit us both in New York.” Isabel started to tear up. “The Whitman’s gave me a book for a savings account for Katie and her college fund, it had fifteen thousand dollars in it and then my parents informed me that they had paid in another fifteen thousand dollars this morning. The one thing I can guarantee is that Katie will be well loved and well provided for.”

Isabel turned to Max and Liz in turn. “No pressure but mom and dad said if you guys get your finger out there’s fifteen thousand with your first child’s name on it.”

Both Max and Liz smiled at Isabel’s light hearted comment.

“I just can’t believe you are going.” Liz said mournfully.

“Who knows Liz?” Max smiled. “With all the job applications we sent out we might end up in New York ourselves.”

“Don’t build my hopes up.” Liz said sternly before looking at Isabel. “God wouldn’t that be great, having you living nearby.”

“One can only hope.” Isabel said smiling.




The next morning everyone rose bright and early. The Whitman’s, never people to do things by half, not only had the Evans family round for dinner but the rest of the friends including Jim and Amy Valenti.

Needless to say that quite a few tears were shed and much hugging and kissing followed the end of the get together. Not everyone was available to say goodbye in the morning, before Isabel and Katie left for the airport, so most took advantage of the party to say their goodbyes.

Isabel had asked that only Max take them to the airport so she wouldn’t get too emotional before boarding the plane. That meant that the friends had all gathered outside of the Evans house waiting for Isabel and Katie to depart.

Of course today of all days it decided to open the heavens and the rain had been falling for little over an hour. The heavy down pour had added an oppressive feeling on an already sombre occasion. No one liked to say goodbye to close family and friends, not least when there were small children involved.

Nonetheless Michael carried Isabel’s bags out to the car and dropped them in the trunk. It was such a sad sight, waiting for Isabel and Katie to leave, that the friends weren’t even attempting to shelter from the rain.

Finally Isabel stepped out of the front door, quickly followed by Max and then Liz, who was carrying Katie. Just as she was about to start her farewells a sound caused her to look towards the street. As everyone turned and watched a car slowly pulled up, a little further away than directly outside of the Evans house. It was unable to park any closer due everyone’s cars being parked outside.

Slowly a familiar figure climbed out of the driver’s side and closed the door. Everyone took a collective intake of breath as the figure approached, confusion etched on his face.

Even little Katie remained silent as she could feel something was terribly wrong. Suddenly a movement caused everyone to look round. It was apparent that despite the falling rain tears were running down Isabel’s face. She was taking small steps backwards, moving away from the approaching Alex.

“I can’t do this.” Isabel shook her head. “Not again.”

And with that Isabel turned and ran.

“Isabel!” Alex cried as he watched the tall girl run off. Alex turned to his bemused friends. “What’s going on?” Alex was clearly unaware of what was happening.

“There’s no time to explain.” Liz cried as she tightened her grip on Katie. “Go after her.”

Alex didn’t need to hear anything else. With the rain lashing down and with his heart pounding in his chest he started off after Isabel, this was one race he couldn’t afford to lose.


To be continued…

[StargazerUK]

Chapter 18


Alex continued to chase Isabel down the empty streets. It was the only conceivable perk of a late morning down pour, a lack of people willing to be caught out in the rain. It was all a little dramatic to say the least but as he wasn’t sure what was happening he had to stick with what he knew and Isabel turning and running away when she saw him could only be a bad thing. Then Liz instructing him to go after her was all he needed to hear before he commenced his foot chase.

“Isabel! Will you just stop a minute?” Alex cried.

Isabel never stopped, never looked back. She just kept on running. The only area of note that was in the vicinity was the park and Isabel seemed to be making a beeline for it. “Isabel, will you please just let me talk to you for a minute?”

Isabel suddenly changed direction, turning into the park. Alex followed but his heart was still pounding in his chest and his lungs were beginning to constrict with all of his efforts so he was fast running out of air. He knew Isabel used to run back before she left to help clear her mind, allowing her to think straight, and it was becoming apparent she had kept up that practice while she had been in New York.

Alex was beginning to contemplate an action that he would never have believed he might have to resort to. “Isabel, this is your last chance to stop!” He called.

With no sign of Isabel taking heed of his warning and no sign of her flight coming to an end Alex did the last thing he was capable of. With one last lung bursting effort he closed the gap between them just enough to do the unthinkable. Alex launched himself at the fleeing figure of Isabel and came crashing into the back of her legs, sending both of them careering to the ground.

There was a brief pause as they both tried to get their wind back. Also Isabel was momentarily lost for words as she struggled to come to terms with what Alex had just done.

“What the hell do you think you are doing?” She screamed.

Alex lifted himself off of the fallen figure of Isabel and stood up. He reached down to help her to her feet but she slapped his hand away as she made her own efforts to get back upright.

“I said what the hell do you think you are doing?” Isabel repeated.

“I’m…I’m sorry.” Alex stammered. “I tried to get you to stop and you wouldn’t listen to me.” Alex leaned forward and placed his hands on his knees, still trying to catch his breath. “I was running out of steam and if I didn’t stop you when I did you would have gotten away and I wouldn’t have been able to speak to you.”

“Are you stupid or something?” Isabel’s harsh words caused Alex to straighten up and take a step back as she advanced on him. “Didn’t the fact that I ran away give you a hint that I didn’t want to see you let alone talk to you?”

“Look Iz, you’re angry and I can understand that but…”

“You can understand that.” Isabel repeated. “How very condescending of you.” Isabel was almost hissing her words.

Alex simply shook his head, causing Isabel to stop.

“What are you doing?” Isabel asked. “Why are you shaking you head?”

Alex blinked away at the rain drops that were still pouring down on the isolated couple. “You don’t have to do this Isabel…I know what’s going on.”

“I’m sorry?” Isabel looked as though her anger was building, if that were at all possible. “You know what’s going on! How dare you claim to know what is going on with me. How dare you claim to know me and what I am going through.”

“I do Isabel.” Alex said firmly.

Isabel stopped for a moment, halted by the resolution in Alex’s voice.

“And how would you know what I am going through?” Isabel asked brushing her rain soaked hair off of her forehead.

“Because I am going through the exact same thing.” Alex took a step towards Isabel. “Because everything you are feeling, I am feeling. The fear, the apprehension and the doubts.”

“Don’t claim to know me.” Isabel yelled as tears began to fall down her already soaked face.

“That’s just it Isabel.” Once again Alex was firm in his convictions. “I do know you and you know me. That’s why I claim to know who you are and what you are thinking just as you know who I am and what I am thinking.”

“If you know me so well then you will know I don’t want to see you any more and I don’t want anything to do with you.”

Isabel looked on in amazement as Alex smiled at that statement. “You’ve just proved my point Isabel.” Alex stopped smiling when he realised he was only making Isabel more irate. “I didn’t know what was going on until just now. We’ve done what we have always done Isabel, misread the signs and got our timing wrong…yet again.”

“Well if you are so clever and know what is going on here why don’t you tell me.”

“Can we at least go back to the house and get out of this rain?” Alex asked softly.

“No!” Isabel shook her head vigorously. “We sort things out right here and right now!”

“OK if that’s what you want.” Alex visibly straightened up. “You broke my heart that morning when I woke up and found you had gone.”

Isabel softened her stance at the mention of her actions that morning but Alex continued.

“But as strange as it may seem I was never angry at you.” Alex left out a mocking laugh. “You were everything to me and you just upped and left but I couldn’t find it within myself to blame you or hate you for it.”

“Alex I…” Isabel tried to interrupt but Alex just carried on.

“The only hatred I could manage was towards myself. I hated the fact that I had allowed myself to fall so deeply in love with you. I hated myself for letting you treat me the way you did and most of all I hated that I couldn’t stop loving you.”

Isabel could see tears were now falling on Alex’s face. She didn’t know what to do.

“Of course the last thing I ever thought you were going to do when you returned was tell me we had a daughter and that was the reason you left.” Alex looked directly at Isabel. “I’m not going to go over ground we have already covered. I know you left because you thought you were doing the right thing for me and in some respects maybe you did but if I had our time over again I would have rather you stayed. Not just because I lost nearly five years of Katie’s life but I lost five years of yours as well.”

Isabel could only stand and stare, this wasn’t what she was expecting.

“So when Liz and Maria sat me down a couple of nights ago they helped me get over my stubbornness and to see what was important, what was right.”

“And what is that?” Isabel asked tenderly.

“A proper chance.” Alex replied. “We have always danced around each other and just when we were both at the same point fate dealt us a curve ball that would test any couple.”

“A baby.” Isabel smiled.

“A baby.” Alex repeated also with a smile. “Isabel, she is so beautiful and so lovely. I go to bed each night thanking God that I met you and that we were blessed with such a little princess.”

“Princess?” Isabel raised her eyebrows in surprise at Alex’s comment.

Alex smiled again. “I may not be a ladies man but it seems that when it comes to princesses I have what it takes.”

Alex’s words caused Isabel to smile but then, just as quickly, the smile fell from her lips. “It would seem that while Liz and Maria were putting you straight on certain things a couple of nights ago Max and Michael were trying the same thing, if a little less successfully.”

“Less successfully?” Alex smiled. “I found my two standing on my doorstep plotting to get us together.”

“At least your two were outside the house.” Isabel wiped at her rain washed face. “I found Batman and Robin plotting in the kitchen. It’s a wonder the FBI haven’t found us years ago with the stealth capabilities those two were showing.”

Isabel eyed Alex for a long moment. It was now or never. “So why did you leave?” She asked tentatively, not sure she really wanted to hear the answer.

Alex gave Isabel a meek smile as he closed the gap between them. As he stepped forward he reached into his jacket pocket, pulling out a white envelope. Finally he handed it to Isabel.

“What’s this?” Isabel asked.

“Read it.” Alex nodded towards the letter.

Isabel opened the envelope and read through the letter. As she came to the end a smile slowly grew across her face. “Alex that’s terrific.” Isabel looked up after finishing the letter. Then confusion replaced her smile. “But it doesn’t explain why you left.”

Alex let out a sigh. “The job at IBM was in Dallas. I’ve just found out I have a baby girl and that I am still madly in love with her mother and you think I am going to go to Dallas.”

“You’re still madly in love with me…” Isabel’s voice was barely a whisper.

Alex stepped forward, ignoring the still falling rain and took hold of Isabel’s hands. “I made a phone call to see if there were any positions in New York. It seems they are quite keen to keep hold of me but I’m not so hot a property that they would just give me a job in New York so I had to go for another interview.”

“You’re still madly in love with me…” Isabel said a second time, apparently she couldn’t get beyond Alex’s statement.

“Isabel, I need you to focus.” Alex said with a self-conscious smile.

“Did you get the job?” Isabel asked excitedly, finally clearing her mind.

Alex nodded and smiled. “I start in the fall.”

“So that’s why you went to New York.” Isabel was still so flustered she was thinking out loud. “So you didn’t leave because you were frightened or that you wanted to punish me?”

Alex leaned into Isabel so their faces were only an inch apart. “I will always be scared of you but only because I am frightened by how much I love you and why would I want to punish you? You were doing what you thought was best.”

Isabel moved Alex’s hands round and placed them on her hips. She then moved her own hands up so they gently clasped Alex’s face. She tried to brush at the rain drops that bathed his face but each time she managed to wipe some away they were replaced almost instantly. “There’s something I have wanted to do since I laid eyes on you back at the Crashdown the night I returned. Will you let me do it?”

“As long as you don’t hurt me?” Isabel could hear the uncertainty in his voice.

“Never again.” Isabel whispered as she gently placed her lips over Alex’s.

As soon as the connection was made the flashes began.

Flash
Isabel waking up lying next to Alex, realising she was pregnant. The feelings of love and happiness that she felt came flooding into Alex.

Flash
The moment that Katie was born. The instant bond that was formed between mother and daughter. Isabel longing to have Alex by her side.

Flash
Katie’s first smile, her first step and her first word.

Flash
The renewed optimism Isabel felt as she prepared to go and visit Alex yesterday and the hurt and despair she felt when the girls told her he had gone.

Finally something they both felt. The love and affection they had for one another. Their bond never having felt so strong and at last, their timing being just right.

They pulled apart slightly but continued to hold onto one another. Isabel spoke first.

“I know it will never come close to making up for what you missed but if you give me a chance I’d like the opportunity to show you more.” Isabel’s voice was full of hope.

“Does it mean we get to do more kissing?” Alex smiled as Isabel playfully swatted at his chest for such a comment.

The couple linked hands and turned towards the park exit.

“We should go as we have lots to talk about.” Alex smiled at Isabel. “And we have to let the others know what is happening, they’ll be worried.”

“We’d better get you home and out of those wet clothes.” Isabel said to Alex. When she turned and looked at him she could see he was blushing. “Alex it’s been five years and I have seen you naked and yet I can still make you blush.”

“It isn’t that.” Alex said pulling off his jacket and handed it too Isabel. “I’ve only just realised that all this rain has made your top see through.”



To be continued…


A/N I’m actually trying to bring this story to an end but each time I sit down to close it up I think of something else to write. Having said that I am sure it will all be over within one or two chapters. Cheers, David

[StargazerUK]

Chapter 19


The sound of the front door opening sent everyone’s gaze looking towards the hallway. As Isabel rounded the corner and moved into the kitchen she could see Max, Liz, Michael, Maria and little Katie all looking on expectantly. The look on each persons face as Alex followed her into the room, holding her hand, was priceless and would stay with her forever.

Before anyone else could react Katie had broken free from where Liz had been holding her and she rushed forward, crashing into Alex’s legs. “Daddy!” She cried.

“Hi Sweetie. Did you miss me?” Alex asked while lifting his daughter.

“Yes.” Katie nodded vigorously. “I wanted to see you and say goodbye.”

“Come here sweetheart.” Isabel lifted her daughter from Alex’s grasp and turned towards her friends. “Katie and I are just going to put our bags back in my old room and then I have to phone the airline.”

Isabel’s comment was met my unified smiles.

“You’re staying?” Maria enthused.

“At least until we have made certain arrangements.” Isabel smiled towards Alex before heading upstairs with Katie.

“That’s absolutely wonderful.” Maria gushed as she followed Isabel’s exit and closed the kitchen door as the young woman and her daughter left the room. In one sweeping movement she turned, swinging her arm until it came into contact with Alex’s chest with a thud. “What the hell were you thinking?”

“What?” Alex exclaimed, thankful their size difference meant Maria’s attack didn’t do more harm than it had.

“Are you kidding me?” Maria started to advance on Alex while poking him in the chest. “Can you really be that intelligent without knowing how people feel and how people think?”

Alex had been backing up under Maria’s assault but he was now coming perilously close to the kitchen cupboards. “Maria I have obviously upset you but I am at a loss as to what I have done.” Alex turned to his friends, specifically Michael. “Feel free to jump in here at any point.”

He knew he was in big trouble when both Michael and Max simply shrugged and shook their heads. He wasn’t getting any help from them anytime soon. Even more telling was Liz’s stern face and lack of intervention. Liz would always step in when Maria went off at someone but worryingly Liz was standing her ground and not moving.

“Think what you did Alex. Use that large head of yours for something useful other than computers and work out what you did.” Maria now had him fully pressed against the cupboard.

“Hey!” Alex exclaimed. “Now you are just being mean. I may have a large head but at least I think things through before jumping in with both feet, unlike some small women I know.” Alex leaned over and looked down at Maria, emphasising both the point to his comment and the extra height he held over Maria.

Maria, not standing on ceremony, reached up and grabbed Alex by the ear, pulling him down to her eye level. “Don’t push me boy! I’m a woman on the edge and you don’t want to mess with me, does he?” Maria looked to Michael with her last question.

Unsurprisingly Michael just looked at Alex and shook his head.

“I don’t understand.” Alex stated once Maria had let go of his ear. However she was still keeping him corralled. “All I did was go to New York for a job interview. I was trying to get a job near to Isabel and Katie so I could continue to be part of Katie’s life, is that so bad?”

“No Alex it’s not.” Liz offered in answer to his question. “But what else did you do?”

When Alex just stared back at her blankly she knew she would have to explain. “Alex, Maria and I sat you down two nights ago and explained to you that you had to make a decision about how you truly felt about Isabel and what you were going to do about it.”

Alex nodded. “Yes and I am very grateful for that.”

“But what did you do then?” Maria asked as her voice softened, her anger subsiding.

“I phoned the airline and booked my ticket for New York. Then I phoned and left a message that I would be making the interview they had lined up for me.”

“That may have been what you did.” Maria backed away from Alex. “But what did Isabel see.”

Slowly a look of realisation spread across Alex’s face.

“Could it be that Isabel woke up one morning and found you gone? Could it be that Isabel had no idea where you had gone or why? And could it be within the realms of possibility that Isabel thought you were punishing her for what she did five years ago?” Maria knew it was Alex’s innocence and enthusiasm that had caused him to miss what had happened but it broke her heart to watch as he finally understood what he had done and why Isabel had been so upset.

“I didn’t think.” Alex’s voice was little more than a whisper. “I didn’t tell anyone as I didn’t want to build anyone’s hopes up, not least mine. I wanted it to be a surprise.”

Maria moved back to Alex’s side and rubbed his arm reassuringly. “We know that now honey but we didn’t know that yesterday when the bottom fell out of Isabel’s world. She was all excited about having you back and then you left.”

Alex looked up at his friends, moving his gaze from one friend to another. “You have to know I didn’t mean to do this, to hurt Isabel.”

“Of course you didn’t.” Max offered his friend a smile. “I think we have all had more than our fair share of misunderstandings it’s just this was the prize winner.”

“How have you left things with Isabel?” Liz was curious but didn’t want to pry. “You looked pretty cosy when you came back in.”

Alex afforded himself a smile despite the situation he had just found himself in. “Things are better. I’ve told Isabel how I feel about her and I think she feels the same way so that’s a start. Ironically we have just had a discussion about no more misunderstandings.”

“Well that sounds promising.” Maria moved in and gave Alex a quick hug, letting him know it was now safe for him to move again. “What happens now?”

Alex moved over to the table where the rest of his friends were sitting and sat down. “I don’t start my new job until the fall but Isabel and I have quite a few things to clear up as quickly as possible. I don’t want to disturb Katie or to build up her hopes but I think everything is going to turn out OK. Or at least I hope so.”

Suddenly the door to the kitchen opened and Isabel came back in, closing the door behind her. “I’ve just put Katie down for a while. She didn’t sleep much because what’s been going on so I think it’s a good thing she felt like having a nap.” Isabel turned her gaze to Alex. “Shouldn’t you be getting out of those wet clothes?”

Alex glanced down at his clothing before looking back at Isabel. “They’re almost dry.”

“Don’t be silly.” Isabel grabbed his hand and pulled him too his feet. “At least let me make sure they are dry.”

Alex stood still while Isabel waved her hand around him, making sure his clothes were now all dry.

Michael leaned close to Max and whispered into his friend’s ear. “Is this the domestic bliss Alex has in store?” Causing both men to smile at his joke.

“I’d be very, very careful Michael.” Maria stated as Michael turned to look at his petit girlfriend. “There’s no limit on how many men in my life will get a good talking to today.” The smile disappeared from Michael’s face as quickly as it had arrived. Maria looked at Max. “I wouldn’t look so confident.” That comment caused the smile on Max’s face to follow Michael’s.

“I’m really sorry Isabel.” Alex said ruefully. “But I have to go check in with my parents. Let them know I am back and what has been going on.”

“Of course Alex, don’t be silly.” Isabel took his hand and turned towards her friends. “I’m just going to see Alex out, I’ll be back in a minute.”

“I’ll speak to you guys in a while.” Alex tried to ignore the knowing smiles his friends gave him as he followed Isabel out to the front door.

“Are you OK Alex? You look a little off somehow.” Isabel stood in front of Alex by the front door.

“I’m sorry Iz, it’s just that Liz and especially Maria have just made me realise what a monumental fool I have been, how I left without telling you where I was going. I really didn’t mean to hurt you I just want it to be a surprise.” Alex’s gaze fell to the floor.

Isabel placed her hand under Alex’s chin, lifting his gaze until it was back, looking into her eyes. “Alex, have you forgotten so much already?”

Alex was confused by that comment so Isabel continued.

“Don’t forget that when we make a connection it goes both ways. When I was sending you flashes of Katie and her first step I was picking how much you wanted to land this job and how much you wanted to be with both Katie and me in New York.” Isabel wrapped her arms around the tall young mans neck, pulling him into her. “Remember what we said Alex, no more misunderstandings or missed opportunities.”

“I remember.” Alex smiled. “Can I see you later?”

“You’d better believe it Mister.” Isabel said firmly with a broad smile on her face. “Please invite your mom and dad over for dinner and we can have another family gathering.”

“My parents will love that.” Then Alex frowned. “But we might need to keep our dads away from the booze this time.”

“Alex?” Isabel whispered.

“Yes Isabel.”

“Kiss me.”

Alex couldn’t help but smile. “Yes Ma’am.”

The pair stood in the hallway for several minutes kissing each other with every ounce of love and passion they could muster. Finally they broke apart, both trying to hide their blushes.

“I think we had better save some for later.” Isabel said seductively.

“Really?” Alex asked wide eyed.

“Well you are coming back later, aren’t you?” Isabel gave Alex her best pouting face.

“With my parents.” Alex replied mournfully.

“But afterwards.” Isabel wasn’t to be denied. “You’ll be around when they have gone.”

It was a statement of fact rather than a question.

“Do you want me here afterwards?” Alex decided he was going to milk this for all it was worth.

Isabel eyed her companion for a moment before the thought hit her. “Do I have to go and get Maria?”

“Bye Isabel.” Alex gave Isabel a hurried kiss on the cheek. “I’ll see you tonight.”

Isabel could hardly contain herself as Alex ran out the front door, pulling it closed behind him in an all out rush. Isabel walked back into the kitchen still laughing.

“What’s so funny?” Liz was pleased to see Isabel so happy.

“Nothing.” Isabel shook her head. “But Maria, don’t be surprised if Alex is a little nervous around you for the next couple of days.”

Maria narrowed her gaze in confusion at Isabel.

Isabel continued to smile. “After the telling off I heard you give him a short while ago I think I will be able to get anything I want from him in the next couple of days just by mentioning your name.”

“Always pleased to help.” Maria smiled.

“Max, Michael. You two need to leave now.” Isabel instructed.

Neither man made a move to leave.

“Fine.” Isabel made her way over to the table and sat down, turning to Liz and Maria. “I need to decide what underwear I am going to wear tonight when Alex comes over.”

In a flash both boys were up and out of their seats, heading towards the hallway.

“Don’t let the door hit you on the way out.” Maria called after them.



To be continued…

[StargazerUK]

Chapter 20


As Max continued to help Isabel load the dishwasher it was apparent to his sister that something was playing on his mind.

“What is it Max? I can see something is bothering you.” Isabel smiled.

Max tried to look nonchalant as he gazed back at his expectant sister. “Nothing’s the matter, I’m fine.”

“Fair enough,” Isabel closed the door on the dishwasher and set it off. “If you don’t want to tell me I won’t lose any sleep.”

Max was still undecided about speaking to his sister. He had been struggling with his feelings most of the day but he wasn’t sure if now was the time.

“Max, if you aren’t going to speak to me at least stop torturing yourself over whatever it is that isn’t bothering you.” Isabel grinned at her brother. She knew he hated it when she made air quotes round a word so she took great delight in seeing his face wince when she had emphasised the word “Isn’t”. “If it was what I said earlier to get you and Michael to leave I was only joking. I didn’t really ask the girls what underwear I should wear this evening.”

Max held his hand up in a flash, as though to protect himself. “Isabel, there are many things I never want to speak to my sister about and her choice of underwear is right up there in the top three.” Max lowered his hand and came to a decision. “Can we talk?”

“Of course,” Isabel finished wiping down the kitchen table and sat down.

Max moved slowly to a seat across from Isabel and lowered himself into the chair. Isabel could see something had been troubling him all the way through dinner but she hadn’t found an opportunity to speak to her brother. When Alex had called to say his parents were delighted to have been invited for dinner Isabel had decide to push the boat out. She had invited the entire group of friends round including Jim and Amy Valenti.

It was a little after 10pm now and Alex had just left to drive his parents’ home, promising to return as quickly as possible. The other couples had left at the same time leaving Liz sitting with the Evans parents in the den chatting. Max was all set to walk Liz home but his Mom had insisted that Liz keep her company while Max and Isabel tidy up the mess they made while preparing dinner.

“How does it feel?” Max asked out of the blue.

Isabel frowned slightly. “How does what feel?”

Max was struggling to look his sister in the eye but finally he raised his gaze to meet hers. “How does it feel to have Katie? To have a family?” Max sighed and shook his head. “I know we have a family I mean…”

Isabel could see Max was struggling as his words trailed off. “I know what you mean Max. We are family. Me, you, Mom and Dad but we all want our own family one day.”

Max nodded. “I know things can’t have been easy for you and that you, Alex and Katie haven’t been a family in the traditional sense, not yet anyway, but things are looking up in that department.”

Isabel allowed herself to smile. “Yes they are. And in answer to your question it’s wonderful having Katie, having your own family.”

Max smiled and nodded. “I thought as much.”

“It’s not just having Katie that makes things so great it’s as much to do with what she represents as apposed to her just being my daughter.” Isabel explained.

Max shook his head. “I’m not sure I understand.”

Isabel reached over and patted her brothers’ hand. “In this instance it’s something I can explain very easily. All you have to do is imagine having a child with Liz.”

As soon as Isabel words reached Max’s ears he couldn’t stop a warm sensation coursing through his body. His love for Liz knew no bounds, she was everything to him but the thought of having a child with her sent his feelings to a whole new level.

“That smile on your face,” Isabel interrupted Max’s thoughts. “That’s what it is all about.”

Max was unaware he had started to smile uncontrollably at the possibility of something so wondrous and amazing occurring between he and Liz but now Isabel had put the thought into his head he couldn’t have removed it if his life depended on it.

Isabel continued. “It’s not just a case of having a daughter who I love more than life itself. When I look at Katie I see Alex.” Isabel now had a smile on her face to match the one that sat on Max’s. “As a mother I love my daughter and want to do anything to protect her. When it comes to the type of woman I want her to be I just hope and pray she takes after her father and not her mother.”

Max left out a little laugh at Isabel comment. “Isabel, I think you are being a little harsh on yourself.”

“I don’t think so.” Isabel shook her head slightly. “Even when I am on my best behaviour I still can’t compete with Alex. He’s everything you want to see in your children. He’s kind and thoughtful. He’s generous and his first thought is always of others.”

“I still think you are being hard on yourself, you have many admirable qualities.” Max countered.

Isabel smiled and nodded. “It’s true to say I am not the woman I once was but if I am honest I won’t be too disappointed if Katie has my looks and Alex’s personality.” Isabel eyed her brother. “Max, I can’t help but think we are going off the subject you really want to talk about.”

Max let out a heavy sigh. “You have to promise to keep what I am about to show you a secret.”

“Very mysterious,” Isabel leaned in. “I promise.”

Max looked towards the door that led to the den where Liz was sitting with his parents. With no sight or sound of movement coming from that area Max slowly reached into his pocket, pulling out a velvet box and placed it on the table in front of Isabel.

“Oh my God!” Isabel threw her hand to her mouth in shock.

“You haven’t even opened it yet.” Max said in a hushed voice.

Isabel looked at her brother in annoyance. “If there’s just a pair of earrings in that box you wouldn’t have a reason for acting the way you have been.”

Isabel tentatively reached out, picked up the box and opened it.

If Max had been concerned at how someone else would react to seeing the ring he had picked for Liz he shouldn’t have worried. As Isabel’s face lit up as she gazed down at the engagement ring he knew he was right to follow his instincts when choosing the ring.

“Max, it’s beautiful. I’m sure Liz will love it.” Isabel closed the box and handed it back to her brother. “When will you ask her?”

“Not sure. I’m just waiting for the right moment.” Max put the box back in his pocket. “You can’t tell anyone Iz.”

“Of course not Max,” Isabel confirmed. “I wouldn’t want to ruin your big moment.”

A knock at the front door caused the siblings to step up from the table. Before they could react they could hear their father answer the door and it became apparent that Alex had returned.

Isabel quickly pulled her brother into a hug. “Good luck dear brother.”

“You too,” Max gave his sister a squeeze before letting go and stepping back.

As the two stepped back from one another their parents came into the kitchen followed by Liz and Alex.

“Thanks for tidying up kids.” Diane gave both children a kiss on the cheek. “We’re off to bed, see you guys tomorrow. Goodnight Liz, Goodnight Alex.”

“See you all tomorrow.” Philip Evans smiled at the two couples that were standing in the kitchen. “Make sure you lock up before you go to bed.”

The Evans parents headed upstairs leaving the four youngsters standing in the kitchen.

Max linked hands with Liz. “I’m going to walk Liz home so we’ll see you guys tomorrow.”

“Have a good night.” Alex called softly as Max and Liz stepped out into the cool night air. “We’ll see you tomorrow.”

Isabel closed the door after they had all said their goodnights and turned to Alex. “I don’t want to make you feel uncomfortable or put you under any pressure but I wondered if you want to stay the night?”

Alex swallowed hard as he let Isabel’s words sink in.

When Alex didn’t rush to comment on her words Isabel wished the ground would open up and swallow her whole. “Of course you don’t have to…”

Alex stepped forward and sent his lips crashing down on Isabel’s, stopping her in mid-sentence. After a brief but passionate kiss they broke apart, both hearts pounding.

“Don’t let my delay in replying to your offer let you think I don’t want to stay.” Alex reached up and tucked a stray hair behind Isabel’s ear. “I was just worried my wishful thinking had made me imagine what you said.”

Isabel felt her spirits rise when she realised he hadn’t spurned her offer. After locking the door and turning out the downstairs lights Isabel took Alex’s hand and led him upstairs towards her bedroom.

Alex’s heart was pounding as they passed by the main bedroom which contained Mr and Mrs Evans. It was true to say that Alex and Isabel were no longer eighteen but that didn’t stop the feeling that they were doing something forbidden or illicit.

Isabel pushed open her bedroom door and came to a crashing halt. Her sudden stop had left Alex somewhat confused as he tried to peer beyond Isabel to see the cause of the delay. Finally she stepped into the room, pulling Alex in behind her.

Once the bedroom door was closed behind the couple Alex watched as Isabel picked up a folded sheet of paper that lay on her pillow. As she read it Alex could see a look of embarrassment pass over Isabel’s perfect features that were now topped off with a nice rosy hew to confirm Isabel’s awkwardness. As she came to the end of the note a broad grin spread across her face as her blush subsided.

“What is it?” Alex couldn’t help but be curious.

“Well it seems I am unable to hide anything from my mother anymore.” Isabel eyed Alex’s confusion so she continued. “It’s a note from my mom saying that she thought you and I might want a little alone time so she got my dad to move Katie’s bed into their room for the night.”

It was Alex’s turn to blush. “Oh my God,” Alex started pacing. “You know what this means, your parents know I am going to stay. More importantly your dad knows I am going to stay. What if he comes in here in the middle of the night? He’ll rip my head off.”

“Alex, you need to calm down.” Isabel couldn’t help but laugh. “Don’t forget we are in our twenties now and we have a beautiful baby girl together. Whether my dad likes it or not we have slept together on at least one occasion and he’s all right with it. It’s no longer any of his business what I do. As long as I respect this house he is happy. And anyway, I know he likes you.”

“He does?” Alex asked, looking for any crumb of comfort.

“Of course he does.” Isabel moved forward and wrapped her arms around her tall man. “He lets Max and Liz stay in the same room from time to time and I even heard a rumour that Mr and Mrs Parker have been known to let Max stay over.”

“They have?” Alex’s resolve was beginning to weaken. “I mean they have. I know they have because Liz has told me.”

“So we don’t have anything to worry about now do we?” Isabel started to nibble on his ear.

“I…I guess not.” Alex stammered. “But we will have to be quiet.”

Isabel pulled back from Alex and gazed into his big green eyes. “I can’t promise anything.”

With that Isabel turned and headed towards the bathroom. She had missed Alex more than she could ever have imagined but she had just realised what she missed most about him…his innocence. She loved being able to tease him ever so slightly, enough to take him to the edge of a nervous breakdown and just when he was about to topple over the edge she would swoop in and save him.

Alex looked down at his hands and wasn’t surprised to see them trembling. “Pull it together.” He told himself. After pulling off his jacket, which he laid over the back of a chair he started to wonder what he should do now. Just as panic started to set in once again the bathroom door opened and Isabel stepped out wearing a very short bath robe that she had pulled tightly around herself and was tied at the front with a cord.

“Are you up for a little fun?” Isabel whispered in her most seductive voice.

Alex tried to speak but couldn’t. Finally, after much effort, he managed to nod.

Isabel moved slowly over to Alex’s side, he looked like a deer caught in headlights. She stopped long enough to place a gentle kiss on his cheek before taking his hand. Linking fingers she turned towards the bathroom, pulling Alex along behind her.

Once inside she pushed the door closed and turned to Alex. As she stood in front of the young man his heart was racing and all he could hear was his pulse thundering in his ears. Slowly and with as much suggestive movement as she could manage without laughing Isabel pulled open her robe, allowing it to drop to the floor.

Isabel stood before Alex totally naked. She was enjoying the terrified look that would forever be fixed on her beloved’s face. She intended to make up for lost years and to ruin him for any other woman. “Take off your clothes.” She commanded.

Alex pulled himself up to his full height. He took a deep breath to calm his fraught nerves and steady himself for what he was about to say. After what seemed like an eternity he replied with as much command and confidence as he could muster but it still came out as a squeak. “OK.”



To be continued…