Follow Your Heart

[Danni02]

Thanks for the comments.

One hundred and sixty-one

Charlie was bathing Luca, with help from her other kids. She held out the sponge as Toby squeezed some of the baby wash onto it. “That’s enough,” Charlie told him, Toby grinning as he kept squeezing the bottle. “Toby.” Charlie glared at him. Toby sighed as he stopped squeezing the bottle.

“He need to be clean.” Toby told his mother.

“I’m sure he will be with all that gel.” Charlie retorted and Noah and Ella giggled as she squeezed the sponge under the water before giving it to Ella, who gently washed her baby brother.

“Mum,” Noah sighed as he kept twisting the talc powder lid open and closed. “Do I need to go back to school tomorrow?”

“Afraid so,” Charlie answered. “I thought you liked school?” Charlie looked questioningly at her eldest son.

“I liked Miss Fairbanks class,” Noah told her. “I don’t like Mrs Phillips. She’s old and smelly.”

Ella giggled at Noah’s summary of their teacher. Although for year 1 they were in different classes, this year they were in the same class. “She smells like to much perfume,” Ella told her mother. “But it’s yucky smelling. Not nice like yours.”

“Yeah and she has a big old wart on her nose,” Noah hit the end of his nose with his finger and Toby giggled hysterically. “She does,” Noah looked to his little brother. “I just want to go back to Miss Fairbanks and Fudge.”

“You didn’t like Fudge when he stayed with us.” Charlie told her son, keeping an eye on Ella with Luca.

“I like him in the classroom to look at,” Noah said. “Mrs Phillips don’t have a pet for us so it’s boring.”

“You should be doing school work in class anyways,” Brax said, walking into the room with Luca’s sleep suit in his hand. “Not looking at pets.”

Noah frowned up at his father as he sat down around the little baby bath, with the rest of his family. “Well sometimes school is rubbish.”

“I know,” Brax said. “But if you don’t go to school you will end up stupid like your uncle Heath.” Brax joked and the kids giggled, Charlie smiling to herself, loving family moments like these. She looked down to her baby son, who was waving his arms a little in the bath and only hoped that she’d be there to see him grow up along with her other children.

“Mum are you crying?” Ella questioned as Charlie wiped her hand over her eye.

“No,” Charlie sniffed back. “I just have something in my eye,” Charlie continued to rub at it as she looked to Brax before looking to Luca. Brax gave a little nod, shuffling himself a little closer to the baby bath and taking over from Charlie supporting Luca. “I’ll be right back.” Charlie said, standing up and walking out of the room to the downstairs toilet. She locked herself in and leaned against the door, letting her tears fall down her cheeks as she placed her hands over her stomach. The tumour had never really been far from her mind all day and all Charlie could think about was now not being there to see her kids grow up.

******

“Daddy,” Katie bolted over to him, jumping up to hug him. “Hey pumpkin,” Heath kissed his daughters temple. “How’s it going?”

“Good,” Katie said as Heath put her down on the floor again. Katie took his hand and led him over to the table. “I did this picture for you.” Katie pointed down to the drawing and Heath smiled as he took a seat on the couch, Katie climbing up onto his knee.

“Thanks sweetie it’s awesome,” Heath told her and Katie grinned. “So, where’s Darcy?” Heath looked in the direction of the bedroom.

“She’s at VJ’s.” Bianca told him and Heath widened his eyes, looking less than impressed.

“He’s a boy,” Heath’s voice rose a little. “What is she doing at a boy’s house?”

“They’re hanging out. She’s making a friend, Heath,” Bianca exhaled as she sat down on the arm chair. “So what if it’s a boy.”

“Boys want to do stuff to girls.” Heath said.

“He’s 14,” Bianca exhaled. “And it’s VJ. He’s a good boy.”

“Exactly. He’s 14,” Heath repeated. “I remember being a fourteen year old boy. Your hormones are heightening, you’re...” Heath stopped talking. “Why did you let her go when you knew I was coming to see her?”

“She knows you are coming,” Bianca told him. “She said she’d be home. She’s probably just running a little late.”

“Well that really assures me,” Heath spat. “My 13 year old daughter is at a boy’s house and is running late, really Bianca, brilliant mothering.” Heath rolled his eyes.

“Leah is there,” Bianca raised her voice. “Not all 14 year old boys will be like you were,” Bianca spat. “Damn it Heath just have some faith in your daughter.”

“Stop it,” Katie yelled as she covered her ears with her hands, jumping down from Heath’s knee. “Stop it. Just shut it, shut it,” Katie ran towards her bedroom. “Shut it up.” Katie slammed her door shut. Bianca exhaled, running her hand across her forehead.

“Katie sweetheart,” Bianca stood up and walked over to her bedroom as Heath followed. “Katie.”

“We’re sorry we were shouting,” Heath spoke through the door. “Open the door, good girl.” Heath rapped lightly on the door.

“It’s not like she’s locked it,” Bianca muttered as she opened the door herself, walking into Katie’s room. She walked over to the bed, where Katie was hiding under her bed covers. “Pumpkin,” Bianca spoke softly as she sat down, pulling back the covers to see Katie lying in a ball, her hands still on her ears. She gently rubbed her back as Heath sat on the camp bed where Darcy was currently sleeping. “We’ve stopped shouting.” Bianca said as Katie took her hands from her ears and turned around to face her parents.

“We need to talk to you about school.” Heath told her, and Katie sucked in her bottom lip as she looked down, knowing exactly what her parents were taking about.

“It’s not me,” Katie shook her head. “It’s a different Katie Braxton.” Katie didn’t look up at her parents as she spoke.

“Oh really?” Bianca lightly rubbed her daughters arm and Katie nodded. “Do you think maybe this time it was you, sweetie?” Bianca questioned. “You won’t get in any trouble,” Bianca told her. “Just as long as you promise you won’t do things like that again.”

“No, it’s not nice.” Katie mumbled.

“So why did you do these things?” Heath questioned.

Katie gave a little shrug. “I want you and mummy to be happy again.” Katie’s eyes welled up with tears.

“And you think being naughty at school will make us happy?” Heath questioned. “That only makes us very disappointed in you.” Heath told her and Bianca glared at him, thinking that was a bit harsh for a 4 year old to hear.

“Sorry,” Katie mumbled as she hid herself against Bianca. Bianca rubbed her back softy. “I know it’s not nice that mummy and daddy don’t want to be together anymore but you being naughty won’t make us get back together,” Bianca told her. “How about you go back to being sweet little Katie at school?” Bianca said.

“If I am good will you and daddy live here again?” Katie questioned.

Bianca exhaled. “No,” Bianca told her. “Me and daddy will always be here for you but we aren’t going to be together anymore.”

Katie pulled away from Bianca as tears fell from her eyes. “But why?” Katie questioned her big brown eyes all wide.

“Because....because...” Bianca paused, not knowing what to say.

“Because I really hurt mummy.” Heath told her.

“You shouldn’t hit people.” Katie looked up to her father.

“Not that kind of hurt,” Heath said. “I hurt her feelings,” Heath patted his chest, over his heart. “In here,” Heath said and Katie made a little O shape with her mouth. “And mummy can’t forgive daddy so it means we can’t be together.”

“Did you say sorry?” Katie asked.

“I did,” Heath felt himself welling up. “But sometimes sorry isn’t enough.” Katie pouted sadly before once again leaning herself against Bianca. Bianca rubbed her back in comfort as she looked to her husband. He’d only been gone a couple of days and she already missed him greatly. She wished not only for the kids but for all they’d been through, for Rocco, for herself that they could make it work, but right now, with Rose’s baby it was just too hard to even think about trying.

[Danni02]

Thanks for the comments.

One hundred and sixty-two

Charlie was watching over Luca as he slept. Brax walked into the room, exhaling sadly, knowing his wife’s mind was occupied with something people really didn’t want to be thinking about. He walked up behind her and wrapped his arms around her from behind. “Stop thinking about it.” Brax whispered, Charlie feeling his breath on her neck.

“Easier said than done,” Charlie mumbled. “God, I wish I was pregnant if the alternative is this.” Charlie turned around, Brax keeping a hold of her.

“Could you imagine another baby?” Brax questioned. “There wouldn’t even be a year between the baby and Luca and I guarantee you now we’d have trouble finding a name to match your little four letter ‘ah’ or Y ending thing.” Brax teased and Charlie’s lips curled, managing a little smile.

“I’m sure we could find plenty cute girl names,” Charlie told him. “But your sperm seem to favour the Y chromosome so it would probably be another boy.” Charlie laughed.

“Well our boys are great,” Brax tucked her hair behind her ear. “And we do have 2 daughters so it’s not like I’ve deprived you of a little girl.”

“I know,” Charlie gave a little smile before she pursed her lips, a serious look now on her face. “What if it is Cancer, Brax?” Charlie questioned, not quiet looking him in the eye.

“You are the strongest woman I know and will give this a bloody good shot.” Brax told her, rubbing her back as he spoke.

“My kids are still babies,” Charlie felt herself welling up. “I....I have to be here to see them grow up.”

“And you will be,” Brax spoke softly. “You’ll be there when Noah graduates uni, on Ella’s wedding day, when Tobes win’s his first surf comp, when Luca brings home his first girlfriend,” Brax exhaled. “When Rubes tells you she’s making you a grandmother,” Brax added. “You’re going to be okay, Charlie. This is just a little scare, that’s all this is.” Brax smiled confidently before kissing her forehead.

Charlie gave the littlest of nods, trying to agree with her husband’s thoughts, but there was a nagging feeling in the back of her mind that couldn’t let this go and would be there with her until she was back at that hospital, getting the results of her blood tests. “You know I never did say sorry for questioning you about the vasectomy,” Charlie bowed her head a little. “I do believe you’ve had it done.”

Brax gave a little smile. “That’s forgotten about,” Brax said, rubbing her cheek. “And I understand why you could question it.”

“No, I’m a bad wife.” Charlie mumbled.

“You are far from being a bad wife,” Brax assured her. “Charlie you’ve been nothing but amazing. Especially over the last few months when I was blind, you never once treated me differently. You made me see I could still do almost everything,” Brax said. “And you put up with Heath as a brother in law,” Brax joked and Charlie gave a little laugh. “Seriously baby,” Brax rubbed her arm. “I love you and everything is going to be okay.”

Charlie took a deep breath as she bit her lip looking into Brax’s eyes. “I love you too.” Charlie smiled before sharing a kiss with her husband.

******

Heath and Brax were sitting on the beach, leaning back against their surf boards as they were placed up right in the sand. “Charlie going to let you play with me again?” Heath chuckled a little.

“Surfing with you made me see again, so, yeah.” Brax answered.

“Might have to still wind up her about that later.” Heath said.

“No,” Brax raised his voice. “No you won’t do anything of the sort.”

“Ah bro it’s just banter.” Heath exhaled.

“I don’t care,” Brax said. “Just...you’ll do nothing of the sort right now.” Brax said, knowing the littlest things would set Charlie off right now and when it came to Heath, he could pretty much just look at her and she’d snap at him.

Heath rubbed the back of his head, a little confused. “Right,” Heath exhaled. “Anyways I eh, I need some advice.”

“Oh we about to get deep?” Brax laughed and Heath glared at him.

“It’s about Rose and Bianca,” Heath told his brother. “I....I want Bianca back but I....I can’t turn my back on my baby, can I?”

Brax gave a little shrug. “Only you know that.”

“Well how much did it suck for us not having dad around?” Heath questioned. “You think we’d have still turned out the way we did if dad was around for us?”

“Honestly?” Brax questioned. “I do,” Brax nodded. “Dad was never Mr law abiding,” Brax told Heath. “Wasn’t exactly the type of dad to play catch with his boys eh?”

Heath exhaled having to agree with his brother. “I want to be there for this baby, but Rose....she said if I don’t make a go of things with her then....I don’t get to be in this baby’s life.”

“Ah blackmail,” Brax murmured. “What a pickle you have Heath.” Brax nudged his arm.

“Brax,” Heath sighed. “What do I do?”

“I don’t know,” Brax shook his head. “Look I...” Brax took a deep breath. “I think right now your chances with Bianca are pretty slim to none. She’s needs space and time and maybe one day she’ll soften towards you again but right now....” Brax trailed off.

“So you think I should make a go of it with Rose for the sake of the baby?” Heath questioned.

“I admire that you want to be there for this baby,” Brax said. “But I really don’t think you need to be getting with crazy Rose. Come to think of it, are you sure she is even pregnant?” Brax questioned. “Faking a pregnancy to get with you sounds like something she could do.”

Heath shrugged. “We weren’t safe so it’s possible,” Heath said. “And she had a scan picture, so that makes it pretty evident, right?”

“I guess so,” Brax said. “But don’t feel you need to be with her just because of this baby. You should only be with someone you want to be with.”

“Bianca,” Heath said. “I want to be with her. I’m going to talk to her again.” Heath decided. He just couldn’t give up on his wife so easily.

“Heath,” Brax shook his head. “Remember what I said. She’s needs time.”

“How much time?” Heath asked. “You and Charlie split up and said you didn’t know what would happen in time and then you started screwing Natalie leaving Charlie devastated and it took you 10 months to get back together,” Heath raised his voice. “No, I....I’ve made up my mind. I’m talking to Bianca. And soon,” Heath said. “In fact, I’ll do it later this morning once we’ve had Freya to the hospital.”

Brax sighed, feeling his brother was only going to end up saddened and hurt by Bianca’s rejection but his mind was made up so there was going to be no stopping him. “Okay. I think you are making a mistake, but okay,” Brax said. “Everything okay with Freya though?”

“She just has to get more vaccinations.” Heath said before looking out to the ocean, already trying to figure out the best thing to say to Bianca.

******

“It’s gorgeous, Rubes.” Charlie said looking down to the ring she’d bought for April. It was about the 3rd time Ruby had showed it to her mother, once again wanting her opinion.

“You really sure?” Ruby asked.

“Yes,” Charlie answered. “April is one very lucky girl.”

Ruby smiled before she closed the ring box. “So, are you okay?” Ruby questioned.

“Yeah, I’m fine.” Charlie answered, Ruby knowing that wasn’t the truth from the worry in her mother’s eyes, the worrying look that had worsened over the last week.

“You know I’m not a little kid anymore mum,” Ruby told her. “You don’t need to hid things from me.”

Charlie exhaled, looking her daughter in the eyes. “I don’t want to worry you.”

“Mum,” Ruby exhaled. “Now I’m worried already, what is it?” Ruby questioned.

Charlie sucked in her bottom lip. “Well you know I’ve been a bit....off the last week?” Charlie questioned and Ruby gave a little nod. “Well I went to the doctors yesterday.”

“And?” Ruby questioned. “Oh God don’t tell me you are pregnant?” Ruby sounded horrified, but with her mother and Brax, she knew it could be a possibility.

“Nope,” Charlie clicked her tongue. “But I wish it was that now,” Ruby screwed her face up, knowing her mother’s thoughts on more children and wondered what could possibly be wrong for her to wish she was indeed with child again. “They eh.....there’s a tumour,” Charlie’s voice came out in a whisper. Ruby gasped in shock as she covered her mouth, feeling her heart beating through her chest. “It’s uhm....”

“Canc...is it a malignant one?” Ruby spoke tentatively, wanting to know but at the same time, she didn’t want to hear her mother had Cancer.

Charlie gave a little shrug. “I need to wait on test results.”

“When will...” Ruby took a deep breath to compose herself. “When will they be ready?”

“Sid said he’d call,” Charlie said. “I’m just trying not to worry too much.

“Of course,” Ruby rubbed her mother’s arm. “And besides everything will be fine. It’s uhm....you’ve not...your....” Ruby exhaled.

“Rubes, it’s okay.” Charlie spoke softly as her daughter was on the brink of tears. She pulled her into a hug, Ruby holding tightly onto her mother, hoping more than anything that she didn’t have Cancer.

[Danni02]

Thank you for commenting.

One hundred and sixty-three

“So,” Bianca handed Heath the nappy bag. “I’ve put in a change of clothes just in case as she’s been spitting up a lot lately,” Bianca said. “And there’s enough milk there for her. You know what times she’s fed at right?”

“Of course,” Heath answered, putting the bag into his truck. “But listen, before we leave,” Heath looked around the hospital car park. Freya had just got up to date with all her vaccinations and like he’d told Brax, he was about to talk to Bianca about them giving things another go. “I thought we could talk.”

“What about?” Bianca was a little nervous to hear what Heath wanted to talk about. He stepped forward and lightly pushed on her back, he and Bianca walking to the front of the truck and leaning against the bonnet.

“Us giving things another go,” Heath figured it was best to just come out with it. Bianca clicked her tongue as she shook her head. “And before you start,” Heath spoke over Bianca. “I....please just know that I love you so so much and I never meant for this to happen.”

“I know you love me,” Bianca exhaled. “And I love you too but, it’s not enough. You got someone else pregnant. I can’t just carry on like you did nothing wrong.”

“I’m not asking or expecting you to do that,” Heath said. “I....I just want to be given a second chance.”

“We’re probably passed the second chance stages already,” Bianca murmured. “This isn’t the first time we’ve split up, is it?”

Heath shook his head a little. “Okay, but, you know what I mean,” Heath exhaled. “And you’ve happily accepted Katie into your life. I’m sure if you just gave it time -”

“That’s completely different,” Bianca interrupted, playing with her wedding rings as she spoke. “We weren’t together when she was conceived,” Bianca pointed out. “Alice wasn’t obsessed with you. You went to the city at weekends and saw your daughter and I never felt threatened that anything would ever happen with you two,” Bianca pursed her lips. “But Rose,” Bianca shook her head. “This baby was conceived while we were together. This is a love child and I....” Bianca trailed off. “She is clearly wanting something to happen and she’ll use that poor child as leverage. Us staying together and you seeing that child and more importantly Rose, would never work.”

“Then I...” Heath paused for a moment. “I won’t have anything to do with the baby.”

“You’re saying it, but your voice, Heath,” Bianca shook her head. “It doesn’t make me believe you and I’m not about to stop you being in your child’s life and you are not the kind of man to walk away from your child. Darcy, Katie, Freya.......this baby,” Bianca exhaled. “They should be your priority right now. Not trying to fix something that right now....” Bianca shook her head. “Is not fixable.”

Heath exhaled sadly, but took some hope out of the fact that Bianca said ‘right now’ and not outright that they were just not fixable. “So there’s no chance of a chance now?”

“Nope,” Bianca pursed her lips. “It’s all too fresh and I....” Bianca sniffed back, feeling emotional. “I’m always going to love you but forgiving a love child it’s.....it’s too hard.”

Heath exhaled as he gave a little nod. “There’s uhm, there’s a swim class for babies on at the pool today,” Heath said, knowing once again he needed to give up on getting Bianca back. “I thought I could take Freya.”

“Yeah, you don’t need my permission. She’s your daughter as much as she is mines.” Bianca replied.

“I know,” Heath said. “Just you probably didn’t expect that so her swimsuit won’t be packed.” Heath said, Heath of course loving the water, made sure his baby had a swimsuit pretty much right after she was born.

“Well go home for it,” Bianca told him. “You still have your key, right?” Bianca questioned and Heath gave a little nod. “While you are there maybe you can get more of your stuff,” Bianca suggested and Heath sighed sadly. “Anyways, I need to go. You’ll bring the girls back at 7, right?”

“Yeah, yeah, 7.” Heath said, watching as Bianca walked over to her car. He sighed once again as he played with his wedding ring before getting into his truck, looking to the back seat when Freya was waiting on him. He exhaled lightly as he looked to his beautiful daughter, who was just like her mother before turning the key in the ignition and leaving the hospital grounds.

******

“Hey baby,” April kissed Ruby on the lips. “How was your day?”

Ruby gave a little shrug as she walked into the house. She threw herself down onto the couch, April walking across and lifting up Ruby’s feet and sitting down, before putting Ruby’s feet down across her legs. “Fine, I guess,” Ruby murmured. “Yours?”

“Yeah good,” April answered. “Had biology for most of the day. We had to slice into tumours,” April told her girlfriend. “One benign and one malignant,” April said. “We had to -”

Ruby sat up, sighing. “Don’t talk about tumours.” Ruby spoke quietly, fearing speaking to loud would get her to upset over her mother’s possible cancer.

“Aww I thought you were always interested in what I do at school.” April pouted sadly.

“I am,” Ruby exhaled. “Just....in fact, tell me,” Ruby said. “Tell me all about these tumours,” Ruby wanted more information on what was inside her mother right now. “How bad is a malignant tumour?”

“Well, it’s cancer so....” April rubbed the back of her head. “They can be pretty...” April trailed off. “It depends on the size as well. People can have peanut sized tumour and some can be melon sized.”

“So the bigger the tumour the worse the outcome will be?” Ruby questioned.

April screwed her face up a little. “That’s not always the case,” April told her. “Sometimes really small tumours can be pretty aggressive.”

“Right,” Ruby pursed her lips. “So say for instance, someone has a tumour on their....ovary,” Ruby sucked in her bottom lip. “Is...I mean what’s....”

“Rubes is everything okay?” April sensed this interested was more for a reason than just wanting to know about her day and what she learned.

“Uhm,” Ruby shook her head. “Not really. My eh.....mum, she’s...” Ruby looked round to her girlfriend. “They found a tumour and they’re testing to see if it’s....” Ruby paused. “Well you know.”

“Ah God Rubes, I’m sorry.” April opened her arms out and Ruby fell into a hug. April softly kissed her head as she rubbed her arm, hoping more than anything that Charlie didn’t have a malignant tumour.

******

Ella ran into the diner, excited for the outing with her mother. They were having a bit of Ella and mummy time, leaving the boys in the pool back at the house. “Hey,” April smiled at her from behind the counter. “How are you petal?”

“Good, I’m having mummy Ella time.” Ella screeched.

“Ah that’s good,” April smiled at her. “How’s year 2 going?” April asked, smiling up at Charlie as she appeared behind Ella.

“It’s harder than year 1,” Ella sighed. “And I have to sit next to Adam Hill and he has no friends.” Ella said, her nose curling.

“Aww poor Adam. Maybe you could be his friend.” April suggested. Ella scrunched her eyes as she shook her head.

“No, no one likes him,” Ella told her. “But Noah sits next to Jasmine and he likes her.” Ella gave a little giggle.

“Ah Noah going to get himself a girlfriend?” Charlie raised her eyebrows as she put her hand on her daughters shoulder.

“I think so,” Ella giggled as she replied. “April when are you living with us?” Ella questioned. “Ruby told us you’d be coming to stay but you don’t come yet.”

“I know,” April said. “But you know Uncle Heath doesn’t live in the house anymore?” April questioned and Ella gave a little nod. “Well I think your Auntie Bianca needs me to stay a little while. Make sure she’s doing okay, huh?”

“Yes,” Ella said. “You make sure.”

“That’s nice of you,” Charlie smiled from standing behind Ella. “But anytime you can move in, yeah.”

“Thanks,” April smiled up at Charlie. “Maybe in a week or two,” April said, not able to get the information of Charlie’s tumour from her mind. “So, how are you. All good?” April pursed her lips.

Charlie exhaled lightly. “Petal you go get that table.” Charlie pointed to a free table.

“Okay but milkshake and a cake, mummy, okay?” Ella cocked her head to the side a little.

“I know,” Charlie said before Ella ran off to the table. “She told you, didn’t she?” April pursed her lips. “Look, it’s fine. I expect she just wants someone to talk to but can you not mention this to Bianca or Leah or anyone?” Charlie questioned. “I don’t need the kids finding out and I....I want to see how bad this is before letting people know.”

“Of course,” April answered. “I won’t tell a soul.”

“I don’t want to worry anyone,” Charlie said before taking a deep breath. “There’s a chance it’s not cancer and that’s just what we have to cling to right now.” Charlie said and April gave a little nod.

“Of course,” April agreed. “And you are young and healthy so even if....you’d be fine.” April said.

Charlie gave her an appreciative smile. “So anyways.” Charlie pointed out to Ella.

“Strawberry milkshake and chocolate cake?” April questioned and Charlie gave a little nod. “And for you... peach iced tea right now?”

“That’s right.” Charlie smiled.

“Go sit with Ella, I’ll bring it right across.” April said and Charlie walked off to sit with her daughter, April looking at her sort of mother-in-law in awe at how strong she was being right now. She exhaled lightly before getting a start to making their order.

[Danni02]

Thanks for the comments.

One hundred and sixty-four

Luca was lying on Freya’s play mat, Bianca knocking the little flower rattle, Luca following it with his eyes. “Aww, I want one.” Bianca cooed as she rubbed Luca’s cheek.

“What?” Charlie was a little confused. “A baby? I’m pretty sure you’ve got one.”

“A son,” Bianca spoke quietly. “He’s such a cute little squishy,” Bianca spoke in a baby voice as she softly pinched his cheeks. “You’re boys worship you, Charlie,” Bianca looked up to her. “Boys usually have special bonds with their mothers.”

Charlie screwed her face up a little. “Not like Katie is a daddy’s girl. She is rather found of you.”

“I know,” Bianca nodded as she sat herself back on the couch. “And don’t get me wrong I love my girls more than anything, but, you know, I wish....my son he,” Bianca pursed her lips. “It would be nice to have a son around.”

“Well you can always have another baby in a couple of years,” Charlie told her. “You’re still young enough.”

Bianca shook her head. “No. Besides, Heath and I are done.”

“Didn’t say it had to with Heath.” Charlie mumbled.

“Funny though,” Bianca exhaled. “Heath has 3 daughters and one...well one son and Brax has 3 sons and one daughter.” Bianca looked back down to Luca, who seemed saddened that the rattle had stopped moving. He made a little grunt as he waved his arms out, like he was trying to make the rattle move again. Bianca leaned forward and knocked the rattle, smiling as Luca gave a big gummy grin.

“Yeah.” Charlie scrunched her face a little.

“Oh,” Bianca raised her voice and Charlie jumped a little at her loudness. “You never did tell me if you took a pregnancy test.”

“I did,” Charlie gave a little nod. “I’m not pregnant.”

“You don’t sound very relieved about that,” Bianca thought Charlie would have been more pleased with the negative result. “You didn’t want baby number 6, did you?”

“What do you think?” Charlie questioned. “Of course I didn’t want another baby. I just....well what else is it going to be?” Charlie pursed her lips. She really didn’t want to talk about this. She didn’t like that she was keeping this from her best friend, but she didn’t want to worry anyone if it wasn’t necessary.

“Only one way to find out,” Bianca said, standing up from the couch and picking Luca up into her arms. “Let’s go.”

“Go?” Charlie widened her eyes. “Go where?”

“Tahiti,” Bianca rolled her eyes. “Where do you think? The hospital. We’ll get you checked over.”

“Oh no,” Charlie put her hand out, stopping her friend from walking. “We don’t need to go to the hospital,” Charlie looked down, not making eye contact with her friend. “It seems to be passing now anyways.”

Bianca looked to her friend, unsure. “What if it’s something that we....something to worry about.” Bianca didn’t want to scare her friend but she wanted her to be checked over. It wasn’t right that she was having these symptoms, especially if she wasn’t pregnant.

“What like a tumour?” Charlie mumbled, looking away from her friend.

“Yes,” Bianca said. “Exactly like that,” Bianca’s eyes widened as realisation hit her. “You’ve got a tumour?” Charlie pursed her lips as she nodded in reply. “Well why did you...” Bianca trailed off as she leaned before her friend, Luca staring up at his mother from Bianca’s arms with a big smile. “What kind of tumour?”

“A tumour,” Charlie shrugged. “Uhm, it’s on my ovary and I’m waiting on test results to see if it’s cancerous.” Charlie took a deep breath, keeping herself composed.

“Oh God,” Bianca covered her hand with her mouth, her other keeping a tight grip on Luca. “Why didn’t you say anything?”

“I don’t want to worry anyone if it’s not necessary.” Charlie murmured.

“Have you at least told Brax?” Bianca questioned.

“Of course,” Charlie exhaled. “And Ruby knows and she’s told April but please just....I don’t want everyone knowing.”

“I won’t say anything,” Bianca rubbed her friends arm. “How long do you need to wait?”

“They said a few days,” Charlie gave a little shrug. “This wait is killing me though so I hope it’s not much longer.”

“I can only imagine,” Bianca rubbed her arm again and could see from the look on her friends face that she didn’t want to talk about it. “Right,” Bianca stood up. “I think little bean here needs some fresh-air. Let’s take him for a walk.” Bianca said and Charlie stood up, following Bianca outside. Bianca placed Luca down in the pram before locking her house up. Charlie put her hands on the pram to push but Bianca lightly shoved her out of the way, taking control of the pram.

“I don’t get to push my own son?” Charlie questioned.

“Nah,” Bianca answered. “My baby is with her daddy for the day so I’ll steal this little cutie for now.” Bianca said as they made their way away from the house, walking towards the park.

******

“But don’t you worry baby, daddy will never stop trying to win mummy back. Even if it takes till you are in high school,” Heath cooed down at his daughter. “I’m gonna make it happen.” Freya babbled as she waved her arm out, banging her little hand against his chest.

“You are so great with kids,” Rose smiled as she joined him at the school gates. “I can’t wait till we raise this one together.” Rose rubbed her hand over her stomach.

“What are you doing here?” Heath questioned.

“I’m picking up my nephew,” Rose told him. “Brother and sister-in-law are busy.”

“I didn’t know you had a nephew. Or a brother, come to think of it.” Heath said.

“Yet we are having a baby together,” Rose chuckled. “My brother is going to hate you,” Rose gave a little laugh. “But there are a few months before the wedding to win him over.”

“I’m sorry before what?” Heath gasped.

“Our wedding,” Rose put her hand on his arm. “We should get married before the baby arrives. It’s the right thing to do by the baby, right?”

Heath pursed his lips. “We are not getting married, Rose,” Heath told her. “We are not ever going to be an us. I’ve told you this so many times.”

Rose sniggered a little as she shook her head. “Remember what I told you about this baby.” Rose once again rubbed her stomach.

“You can’t blackmail me,” Heath told her. “I am married to the woman I love and I will get her back,” Heath sounded adamant. “I will be there to support you with everything during the pregnancy and be there 100 per cent for our child, but I don’t want to be with you. Ever.”

“Wow,” Rose raised her eyebrows. “We really are playing hard to get, huh?” Rose exhaled. “Maybe if you just gave me that chance,” Rose traced her finger over his bare arm. “You might actually see that you like me.”

“I don’t.” Heath exhaled.

“Yet you slept with me.” Rose clicked her tongue.

“Everybody makes mistakes.” Heath muttered.

Rose opened her mouth to reply but was spoken over by Katie, who came running out of the school gates. “Daddy.”

“Hey pumpkin,” Heath smiled as Katie jumped into his arms, Heath juggling holding Katie and Freya. “How was school?”

“Fine.” Katie answered.

“You behave today?” Heath questioned as he put her back down on the ground. Katie sucked in her bottom lip and gave a little nod, sort of looking unsure. “Well,” Heath wasn’t sure if Katie had or not, but was going to spoil her anyways since they were having some special time together. “Let’s head to the diner huh? Get you some chocolate cake?”

“Yes please.” Katie did a little skip, before she continued to skip away from her school.

“Heath,” Rose exhaled. “Look, we need to talk, uhm...” Rose pursed her lips. “If you don’t want to be with me...” Rose trailed off. “I want to talk about the baby. Can you come over tonight?”

“And you honestly just want to talk about the baby?” Heath questioned. “No more trying to get us together?”

“Uh-uh.” Rose shook her head.

“Text me your address later.” Heath said before walking away to catch up with Katie. Rose watched him walking off, a little glint in her eye as she thought about that evening.

[Danni02]

Thanks for the comments.

One hundred and sixty-five

.Heath and the kids walked back into the house. “Hey girls,” Bianca smiled at her daughters as Heath handed her the car seat, where Freya was sound asleep. She put it down on the coffee table, lifting her baby daughter into her arms. “You have fun with dad?”

“Yeah,” Darcy answered. “But I have homework so I’ll be in my room,” Darcy said before walking over to the door. “See ya dad.” Darcy smiled at him.

“Bye Darce.” Heath smiled at his daughter as she walked into room, closing the door behind her.

“What about you pumpkin, you have fun?” Bianca looked down to Katie who had been greeted by the two kittens, Katie too engrossed in clapping them to answer her mother. “How was swimming?” Bianca exhaled as she looked back up to Heath.

“Freya loved it,” Heath said as they walked over to the kitchen, moving a little out of Katie’s ear shot. “But it was all mothers,” Heath sighed. “I was the only dad.”

“Thought you might be,” Bianca told him. “But as long as you and Freya had some bonding time what does it matter?”

“Ugh,” Heath sighed. “Maybe you can take her next time. A couple of the mothers hit on me,” Heath looked a little embarrassed. “Can you believe it? They have brand new babies and they’re hitting on me.”

“It was probably just a bit of fun,” Bianca said. “Some men don’t want to go near a woman after a baby comes out of...” Bianca raised her eyebrows. “You know we change a lot.”

“Bianca that’s not why....” Heath rubbed the back of his head. “We weren’t having sex because of the other things,” Heath exhaled. “It’s not because of how you were post pregnancy. Do you really think I am that shallow to not want to be with you after you’ve just given me the gift of a beautiful daughter?” Bianca gave a little shrug. “Babe, I...” Heath took a few steps closer to Bianca and rested his hand on her arm. Bianca let it sit there for a moment as they stared into each other’s eyes.

“Uhm,” Bianca cleared her throat as she broke their gaze. “Thanks for bringing the girls home on time,” Bianca said. “You should eh....you should go.”

Heath exhaled, staring at his wife and taking in her beauty. “Bia -”

“No Heath,” Bianca held one hand out, the other keeping a hold of Freya. “I told you this morning we can’t....we’re not doing this, okay,” Bianca exhaled. “Just please leave.” Bianca looked to the door, wanting him to go.

“Okay.” Heath exhaled as he looked at Freya from her mother’s arms. He lightly rubbed her little hand before walking through the room and giving Katie a quick hug before leaving. Bianca took a deep breath before walking through the room to her daughter.

“Right time for you to have a bath,” Bianca put on a smile. “You go get your pyjamas from your room and I’ll put Freya down and meet you in the bathroom, okay?” Bianca said and Katie gave a little nod as she stood up and ran to her room. Bianca looked down to her sleeping baby and sighed lightly, wishing so much she could have both her parents together, Freya never going to know what it’s like to be a proper family.

******

“Where are you taking me?” Charlie was being led outside by Brax.

“You’ll see.” Brax answered leading her around the back of the house to the big garden.

“We can’t really go anywhere,” Charlie said. “The kids are in the house. Pretty sure it’s illegal to leave seven year olds in charge of a four year old and a baby.”

“Rolo is there,” Brax chuckled. “And it’s not as if I am taking you to Vanuatu, we are just in the garden.”

“Vanuatu hey,” Charlie raised her eyebrows. “I wish you would take me to Vanuatu.”

“Yeah?” Brax questioned. “Well maybe one day.”

“Mmmm,” Charlie closed her eyes and smiled dreamily. “Romantic walks along the beach, relaxing in a hot tub at sunset, candlelit dinners....” Charlie trailed off.

“You mean four screaming kids because the sand is getting everywhere, being dragged under the water in the pool with the kids thinking that it’s hilarious and noisy restaurants with paper napkins and children’s menus?” Brax questioned.

Charlie laughed. “Sounds about right,” Charlie exhaled. “Although my scenario sounded much better. Maybe the kids could stay in Summer Bay.” Charlie joked.

“Hmm wouldn’t that be lovely,” Brax exhaled. “But we’d probably miss them like crazy before we even got off the plane.”

“Really?” Charlie questioned. “I think we could do a few days,” Charlie laughed. “Then Rubes can April can deal with four monsters on a plane ride to join us.”

“Four?” Brax shook his head. “No way Noah will be a monster and little bean is so content. Tobes and Ella would be their problems. Tobes, really a problem.” Brax laughed.

“Yes he may be crazy good looking like his mother but he is all his father in every other way.” Charlie teased as she wrapped her arms around Brax.

“Well then we are in for a tough time when he is a teenager.” Brax laughed before placing a soft kiss on Charlie’s lips.

“Yeah,” Charlie bit her lip as she looked away from her husband. “If I get to see that.” Charlie mumbled.

“Baby,” Brax rubbed her upper arms. “I know you’ve been really worried about getting these results, but, you will be okay. I can feel it,” Brax placed a soft kiss on her forehead. “We are not thinking about that until Sid calls with the results,” Brax led Charlie across the grass and it was then when she saw the blanket laid out with some chocolates and some fizzy grape juice on the account that Charlie wasn’t drinking while she breastfed.

“What’s this in aid of?” Charlie gasped a little.

“Well like I say I know you are worrying and also it’s been a while since we’ve had a date night so for the next forty minutes we are out here not thinking about the results or anything and just....having our date.” Brax said, lightly rubbing her hand with his thumb.

“Why just forty minutes?” Charlie questioned.

“Because that’s when Luca gets his next feed.” Brax said as they sat down on the blanket. Charlie looked into her husband’s eyes and smiled.

“Well let’s make the most of these forty minutes then, huh?” Charlie said as they sat on the blanket, Brax immediately taking a chocolate and feeding it to his wife.

******

Heath was sitting in Rose’s apartment, his legs shaking as he was nervous about their talk was going to go. “Get that down you.” Rose handed him the beer as she sat down next to him.

“Thanks.” Heath took a swing before looking to her glass. “That wine?”

“Grape juice,” Rose answered before putting it down on the coffee table. “Just make it feel like I’m drinking along with you.” Rose said, looking down at the drink.

Heath looked unsure. “Anyways, I.....about the baby.”

“Slow down,” Rose put her hand on his thigh. “We have all night to talk about the baby,” Rose exhaled as Heath moved her hand from his body. “Tell me a bit about yourself.”

“Why?” Heath questioned.

“Why not?” Rose once again put her hand on his thigh. “We should get to know each other a little better, you know, I...it’s important, don’t you think?” Rose moved closer to him, Heath feeling her breath against his neck. He gulped as he moved along on the couch.

“For the baby, yes.” Heath answered.

“I think once you get to know the real me that we could,” Rose bit her lip, looking at him rather seductively. Heath exhaled as he looked at her eyes. She was a gorgeous woman and would be fun to have a relationship with underneath all that crazy. “Be really happy together.” Rose said, her hand resting on his chest. Heath pursed his lips as Rose batted her eyelashes at him. Here was this woman throwing herself at him and he was saying no for what? Bianca made it clear they were over and this woman was carrying his child, maybe he owed it to this baby to try to make it work. If he couldn’t be with Bianca, the mother to two of his children, then maybe he could be to this one. Before Heath was able to think rationally, he felt Rose’s lips smacking against his.

[Danni02]

Thanks Red Ranger 1 and Sarah.

One hundred and sixty-six

April and Ruby were laying on the beach, soaking up some sun. Ruby was staring at her girlfriend, watching her as she looked out at a woman walking up the beach. “Will you stop checking her out?” Ruby slapped April’s stomach.

I am not checking anyone out.” April turned her head to face Ruby.

“Yes you are,” Ruby exhaled. “And you checked her out when she was walking down to the water before,” Ruby said. “I saw you ogling over her butt.”

“I so did not,” April gasped. “And anyways if I was going to stare at anything it’d be her breasts. You know I like boobies,” April said. “You are more of the ass girl.”

Ruby laughed a little. “Mmm I do like your ass very much. It’s so little and cute,” Ruby exhaled. “And it has a monster on it. I mean, not many asses have monsters on right?” April laughed as she turned around so she was lying on her stomach.

“You and this tattoo,” April rolled her eyes. “I’ll give you a quick peek at it later.” April raised her eyebrows at her girlfriend and Ruby grinned.

“I’ll take more than a quick peek.” Ruby said playfully slapping her girlfriend’s ass, before letting her hand rest there.

“Egh,” Romeo’s voice could be heard. Ruby groaned before looking up to see him standing over them. “Public indecency don’t you think?” Romeo sounded a little smug as he spoke.

“Her hand is on my bottom,” April sighed. “It’s not like we are having sex.”

“Well you can’t really have sex, can you?” Romeo laughed. “Neither of you have a penis.”

April stifled a laugh. “You don’t to be with someone with a penis to be able to have sex.”

“You just shut up.” Romeo growled at her. Even though he was really happy with Sophie, he still grudged April for appearing back in town and taking Ruby from him, because most likely, if she hadn’t appeared back he and Ruby would have still be married, he still being with who he believed was the love of his life.

“Jeez Romeo,” Ruby sighed. “Quit acting so angry. We are done, over, almost divorced. You have a new girlfriend who is gorgeous and it seems like you are so happy together. Let it go already. We’re done so just move on with your life.”

“Why do you even want to be with someone who could cheat on you?” April questioned. “Cheating is never okay and she broke your heart. Why would you still want to be with her? Cleary she’s not a good person, she went behind your back, she lied to you, she clearly doesn’t have respect for the people she loves,” April said and Ruby glared at her, feeling slightly offended by what she was saying about her. “You deserve so much better.”

Romeo glared at April before looking to Ruby then back to April. “You know what, the lesbian is right,” Romeo sniggered. “I deserve way better than a cheating bitch like you and I have that. I’ve found a great girl and it’s about time I treated her properly,” Romeo said. “She’s all yours.” Romeo glanced at April before walking away, not looking back at his soon to be ex.

******

“Mummy,” Katie danced around the room. “Mummy can we bake?” Katie questioned, like her big cousin Ella, Katie was very fond of baking.

“Sure but you need to clean out the kitty litter first.” Bianca told her and Katie pulled a face of disgust.

“No,” Katie shook her head. “I’ll not do that.”

“I’ll do it.” Darcy said, looking up from playing with Freya on her play mat.

“No Darce,” Bianca shook her head. “You did it yesterday. It’s Katie’s turn.”

“She wants to,” Katie pointed to Darcy. “Let her.” Katie grinned, obviously happy to pass the task to her older sister.

“Nope,” Bianca shook her head. “You wanted Lola so you need to change the kitty litter,” Bianca sighed, always having this argument with Katie when it was her time to scoop out the kitty poop. “You don’t need to change the whole trays just scoop the poop into the little white bag, put one scoop of fresh litter on and you are done.”

“Just the one here.” Katie pointed to the kitty litter that sat against the cabinet in the living room.

“No the one near the bathroom door too.” Bianca told her and Katie sighed before running to the kitchen, opening the cupboard to get out everything she needed. Bianca took a seat on the floor next to Darcy, moving Flynn and Lola to the side as they were laying on the edge of Freya’s play mat, both of them pawing at the flower that had a little bell in it, making jingling noises as they hit it.

“Wait till Freya is older. Might have a third cat in here.” Darcy laughed.

“We are not turning into some crazy cat family,” Bianca replied. “Two cats are plenty.”

Darcy picked up Flynn, Flynn snuggling up against her legs, welcome the clapping. Flynn loved cuddles with anyone who would give him them. “Well what if Flynn and Lola had kittens?” Darcy questioned. “Cos like one is a boy and one is a girl cat.”

“Yeah,” Bianca exhaled. “Think we’ll take little Flynnster here to the vets. Make sure he can’t get Lola pregnant.” Bianca clapped his little head and he purred.

“Ah no poor little Flynn,” Darcy continued to clap her kitten. “So, anyways, you know it’s Katie’s birthday party on Saturday?”

“Yeah.” Bianca gave a little nod, not able to believe her little pumpkin was turning 5 already.

“Well can I bring a friend?” Darcy questioned.

“Of course you can,” Bianca smiled; glad Darcy was settling in okay at school. “What’s her name?”

“Uhm,” Darcy pursed her lips. “VJ.”

“Ahh,” Bianca widened her eyes. “So, it’s a boyfriend.” Bianca teased, poking Darcy’s side.

“No,” Darcy gave a little giggle as she moved to the side a little. “He’s just a friend who happens to be a boy. So, he’s my boyfriend as in a boy who is a friend.” Darcy screwed her face up a little.

“Well even so, in that case you’ll need to ask your dad.” Bianca exhaled.

“What why?” Darcy questioned. “You’re my stepmum. Surely you can make that kind of choice. I mean I am living with you,” Darcy sighed. “Dad’s f*ck*d off.”

“Darcy Callaghan,” Bianca raised her voice. “Don’t you use words like that ever again.”

“Sorry but it’s true. It’s not like he put up much of a fight to stay with us, is it?” Darcy bowed her head.

“Darce your dad wants nothing more than to be here with us,” Bianca told her. “It’s me who can’t forgive your dad. I don’t want him here anymore,” Bianca spoke softly. “And once he finds a place of his own he’s probably going to want you to live with him.” Bianca said, rubbing Darcy’s upper arm as she spoke.

Darcy gave a kind of shrug. “Well right now I am here with you so surely you get to call the shots.”

“I know but I think when it comes to boys being around you, I...” Bianca exhaled. “Just okay it with your father, okay?” Bianca questioned and Darcy sighed a little before she stood up from the floor, Flynn being held against her with one hand as her other rubbed her necklace from her late mother.

“I’m going to look at my photo album,” Darcy suddenly looked saddened. “Can I have privacy?”

“Of course,” Bianca nodded. “Katie and I are going to bake so if you feel like coming out to join us you are more than welcome.” Bianca said as she too stood up, rubbing Darcy’s cheek lightly.

“Okay.” Darcy answered before walking to the bedroom and closing the door shut behind her. Bianca looked down to Freya who was waving her arms and kicking her legs as she babbled away to herself. She gave a little smile before going to see how Katie was doing cleaning out the kitty litter.

******

Charlie walked into the restaurant and through to the office, where she found Heath sitting, his head being held in his hands as a bottle of bourbon was on the table and a glass with some bourbon still in it sitting next him. “You drinking our profits?” Charlie questioned.

Heath looked up to her and exhaled. “I’ve done something really stupid.”

“Going to need more information than that,” Charlie replied, opening the drawer and taking out the accounts book. Even though she was still on maternity leave, she would occasionally pop into the restaurant, just to see they were still doing okay and to see if anything needed sorted. “You’ve done heaps of stupid things.”

“I slept with Rose.” Heath exhaled.

“Yes, and you got her pregnant and now you’ve lost Bianca and -”

“I slept with Rose last night.” Heath spoke quietly, ashamed of his actions.

Charlie gasped. “Of all the stupid things, really Heath?” Charlie questioned. “I thought that you couldn’t get anymore stupid. I.....I thought you wanted Bianca back?”

“I do, I really do.” Heath looked like he was on the brink of tears.

“But yet a woman throws herself at you and you just can’t resist. No matter how crazy and deranged she may be,” Charlie shook her head lightly, leaning back against the desk and looking down at her brother in law. “What the hell were you thinking?” Charlie slapped his arm.

“I wasn’t,” Heath replied. “God I’ve really messed up Charlie, I’ve messed up big time,” Heath exhaled. “What am I supposed to do?” Heath asked. Charlie sucked in her bottom lip as she shook her head, not really having an answer to give to her brother in law.

[Danni02]

Thanks for the comments.

One hundred and sixty-seven

Ruby put the bowls of pasta down the table before sitting down opposite her girlfriend. She sighed as she lightly salted the food before taking a drink of her water. “This is really good, Rubes,” April said as she swallowed her mouthful. Ruby glanced at April before taking a forkful herself. “Guess your mum didn’t teach you this recipe.” April gave a little chuckle.

“She’s actually a lot better at cooking these days.” Ruby replied, not looking at her girlfriend.

April clicked her tongue. “Have I done something to upset you?” April questioned, knowing she was clearly in Ruby’s bad books. Ruby having been pretty quiet with her since they returned back to Ruby’s place from the beach.

“I don’t know April,” Ruby threw her fork down into her bowl. “How about you saying all that stuff to Romeo?” Ruby questioned. “Do you really think I’m some kind of heartbreaking, disrespectful cheat who wasn’t good enough to be with him?”

“No,” April answered. “I...I only said that to get him to back off and leave us the hell alone. To let us get on with being a couple.”

“It just slipped out so easily,” Ruby retorted. “Seems like you had that little speech rehearsed.”

“What babe, stop being crazy,” April sighed. “I was just trying to get Romeo off our backs. I’m sick of him trying to get between us,” April said. “That’s all this was and I know and trust that you would never, never do anything like that to me.”

Ruby sucked in her bottom lip. “It’s not like all of it was my fault anyways,” Ruby mumbled. “You are the one who went after the married woman.”

April pursed her lips. “I know and yeah okay maybe it was wrong of me but I’m not going to be sorry,” April told her. “We got back together. I’m never going to be sorry for that or wish we didn’t happen,” April exhaled. “Baby c’mon I didn’t mean it to sound like it did to you,” April stood up and walked to Ruby’s side of the table. She bent down and lightly caressed her knee. “Baby,” April pouted sadly as she rubbed Ruby’s cheek. “Don’t be mad at me. I hate it when you are mad.”

“I’m not mad,” Ruby answered. “I just...I don’t like you thinking that low of me.”

“But I wasn’t,” April rubbed her cheek again. “I really was just trying to get rid of your little bit crazy ex,” April said and Ruby sighed as she pursed her lips. “Now how can you not love me for that?”

Ruby felt a little smile forming on her face. “I do love you. Very very much,” Ruby said. “But maybe the next time you try to help how about not insulting me?” Ruby questioned and April gave a little nod before placing a soft kiss onto her lips. Ruby smiled into the kiss, letting it deepen as she wrapped her arms around April.

“Mmm.” April moaned a little as she pushed herself up and straddled over Ruby on the chair, Ruby resting her hands on April’s bottom as the kiss only continued to intensify, their tongues quick to find their way into each other’s mouths.

“Oi,” Ruby and April pulled apart as they heard Brax’s voice. “Kitchen table is for eating, not sexing,” Brax said as he walked into the kitchen. April and Ruby were both red in the face as April got off from Ruby and walked back around to her chair. “Pasta gets cold quick.” Brax gestured to their bowls.

“Dad.” Ruby glared at him.

“I’m sorry but this is not your bedroom and Luca needs a feed,” Brax said opening the fridge and taking out an expressed bottle. “Your mum is still doing stuff at the restaurant so it’s up to daddy to keep him full,” Brax said, holding up the bottle of milk. Charlie always liking to have a couple of expressed bottles handy, just in case, and of course Brax loved when he got to feed Luca. “Enjoy your dinner.” Brax grinned at them before leaving the kitchen, leaving behind two very embarrassed people.

******

Charlie put one pile of receipts to the side before pulling the next closer to her. “Jeeze Heath have you not done the accounts once since last week?” Charlie questioned.

“I never remember how to do it properly,” Heath answered. “It’s best if I leave it for you.”

Charlie shook her head, sighing at her brother in law. “So you couldn’t have asked me a couple of days ago? It’ll take me ages to go through all these.”

“Ah you had the kids going back to school, Luca to care for...” Heath shrugged. “It’s getting done now so what’s the problem?”

“Nothing,” Charlie sighed. “Shouldn’t you be out there working?”

“She’s coming in tonight.” Heath sighed, Charlie immediately knowing who ‘she’ was.

“She doesn’t work the same shifts as you anymore.” Charlie was a little puzzled.

“Well she is tonight,” Heath replied. “Laura’s had to go into the city. Her daughter’s messed up at uni already or something, I dunno,” Heath gave a little shrug. “But Rose is coming in.”

“Well please try to keep your pants on.” Charlie said, still looking down at the receipts.

“Could always do my shift for me.” Heath gave Charlie a cheeky grin.

“Why?” Charlie looked up to him. “You want to go home to your wife and kids?” Charlie questioned and Heath looked down, saddened. “Sorry that was uncalled for.” Charlie mumbled.

“It’s a fair point,” Heath sighed. “Don’t really have anything to go home for.”

“Keep sleeping with Rose and it will guarantee that for a long time if not ever.” Charlie said, laying the pen on the desk before folding her arms across her chest.

“I know,” Heath answered. “I’m not going to do it again,” Heath said. “She’s just....well she’s not really going to leave me alone.”

“Well you slept with her,” Charlie retorted. “Can you blame her for thinking maybe this would be more than a onetime thing?”

“I guess not,” Heath sighed. “But I’ve told her on numerous occasions,” Heath said. “I...I just want to make things right with Bianca.”

“I know you do,” Charlie said. “But right now, she’s your problem,” Charlie pointed to the office door. “You set the record straight with her. Bianca, you need to leave for a while. Let things blow over.”

“I don’t know how to stop Rose.” Heath sighed.

“Well you can start by not sleeping with her again,” Charlie suggested. “Even if you have to say it a million times, let her know you and her is not ever an option,” Charlie said. “That you are there for the baby and that’s all,” Charlie exhaled. “I...it’s all I can tell you.”

“Yeah,” Heath sighed. “Thanks for trying to....thanks for the advice,” Heath took a deep breath. “Best get out there and work though huh?”

Charlie gave a little nod. “I’m not paying you to stand in here and chat.”

“Well quit distracting me.” Heath gave a cheeky grin before leaving the office, letting Charlie get on with doing the accounts.

******

Charlie yawned as she walked into the living room. “Ah hey you remembered you lived here,” Charlie sighed lightly as sat down next to her husband, Brax wrapping his arm around her as she leaned against him. “Everything okay?” Brax questioned. Charlie groaned a little. “What happened?”

“Your brother happened.” Charlie mumbled.

“What’s he done now?” Brax sighed lightly, although not to surprised Heath had managed to do something to annoy his wife.

“You should be asking who he’s done, not what.” Charlie murmured.

“Ah he hasn’t,” Brax already sounded annoyed with his brother. “Please tell me he hasn’t?”

“I wish I could,” Charlie clicked her tongue. “But....he did,” Charlie said, looking up at face her husband. Brax shook his head in disbelief at his brother. “It makes me upset, more than anything,” Charlie admitted. “I hate seeing Heath and Bianca apart. I know how hurt she is right now but I know deep down she doesn’t want this. She doesn’t want them being apart but he is doing a bloody good job at making sure that that’s the case,” Charlie exhaled. “What can we do?”

“Nothing,” Brax shook his head. “We just need to stand back and let these two get on with things. And if down the line they happen to reconcile then great, but, we can’t meddle in this.”

Charlie sighed, knowing her husband was right. “How were the kids tonight?” Charlie pursed her lips, deciding she may as well move the conversation on.

“Good,” Brax answered. “Tobes didn’t eat his veggies though and he took a strop because he didn’t get dessert. I wasn’t his favourite person,” Charlie gave a little laugh. “Also don’t think I’m Rubes’ favourite person either but that’ll be for different reasons.”

“Why?” Charlie questioned. “What happened with Rubes?”

“I kinda sorta maybe walked in on her and April getting a little hot and heavy.” Brax looked embarrassed even talking about it now.

“Brax,” Charlie gasped. “You know to always knock on her door before entering.”

“I don’t need to if it’s the kitchen though.” Brax retorted.

“Oh no,” Charlie exhaled. “I don’t suppose you do,” Charlie pursed her lips. “Well they’ll be more embarrassed than you.”

“Probably,” Brax exhaled. “Just never something a father wants to see, eh?” Brax said. “I mean I know she is 23 this year but to me she’s still that little 11 year old who gave me one hell of hard time when we first met.”

Charlie gave a little laugh. “She just wanted to make sure you’d be good to me.” Charlie cuddled a little further into Brax.

“Yeah?” Brax questioned. “Well I’m pretty sure that I’ve been good to you over the years.”

“Hmm, you’re alright,” Charlie joked. “Sometimes.” Charlie added before they both gave a little laugh. Brax placed a soft kiss on her head as they stay cuddled together on the couch.

[Danni02]

Thanks for the comments.

One hundred and sixty-eight

Heath locked up the restaurant before walking down the stairs and through the surf club. He tapped the alarm code into the alarm before closing and locking the doors. “Lovely night, huh?” Rose appeared at his side as if from nowhere. The wind was picking up and a few drops of rain could be felt, so in fact it wasn’t a lovely night.

Heath sighed as he started walking away from the building. “I thought I sent you home an hour ago.”

“I was hanging around,” Rose quickened her pace to catch up with him. “Thought we could hang out.”

“Why would we do that?” Heath questioned, putting the hood up on his hoodie, his ears feeling the cold.

“Well we are in the beginnings of a relationship,” Rose wrapped her arms around his arm as they walked. “It’ll be nice to hang out.”

“No,” Heath pulled his arm away. “Look, Rose I was wrong to sleep you.”

“What time?” Rose chuckled.

“Both times,” Heath answered. “I’m sorry but we’re never happening,” Heath said. “I don’t like you in that way and I’m sorry for using you for sex.”

Rose pursed her lips, feeling saddened. She really liked Heath and wanted to be with him more than anything, but even the thought of a baby with her wasn’t going to make that happen. “Well that’s a shame.” Rose spoke quietly.

“What?” Heath sounded shocked. “That’s it? No trying to seduce me or blackmailing me over the baby?”

Rose gave a little shrug. “You don’t want me. Not even a baby can make you want me,” Rose mumbled, knowing the plan she had to win Heath wouldn’t ever work, and really she wasn’t sure how much longer she could lie about being pregnant anyways. She’d need to start wearing a fake bump soon if she was going to keep this is much longer. “Am I really that bad?”

Heath wanted to tell her she was outright crazy. “I’m sure the right guy is out there for you.”

Rose exhaled, knowing Heath was way to in love with Bianca to even try things with her and she did feel a little bad that she’d played a part in ruining their marriage. “Listen, Heath about the baby. I-”

“I will never leave you alone with this child,” Heath put his hand on her stomach. “I’ll pay for nappies and wipes. I’ll be at the next appointment. I’ll help buy everything this kid needs.”

Rose felt herself welling up, seeing a love in Heath’s eyes for the unborn child already. “Heath I -”

“Please don’t punish this child by not letting me be in its life just because I don’t want to be with you.” Heath said, his hand still on her stomach. Rose put her hand on top of his and stared into his eyes for a moment.

“I....I have to go.” Rose mumbled before turning around and walking away from Heath, leaving Heath standing a little confused at her sudden departure.

******

April walked into the house, smiling as her sister appeared out of her bedroom, having just settled Freya who’d been stirring. “April,” Bianca was a little surprised to see her. “I thought you were staying at Ruby’s tonight.”

“No.” April shook her head as she walked over to the couch, taking a seat as Bianca sat down next to her.

“You two haven’t fallen out again, have you?” Bianca sighed.

“No no,” April answered. “We’re great. I was never spending the night.”

Bianca stared at her little sister, looking into her deep brown eyes. “You’re not not staying so you can come and babysit me are you?” Bianca wondered.

“You are a 33 year old woman,” April replied. “I don’t think you need babysitting.”

“April.” Bianca exhaled.

“Look I just....” April pursed her lips. “I don’t want you being alone right now,” April told her. “Break up’s are tough and you and Heath have such a history.....there’s a lot to let go of.”

Bianca rolled her wedding rings around her finger as she looked down to her feet, where both the kittens were sitting, meowing up at them. April leaned down and picked the kittens up, both of them happy to share her legs as she clapped them. “I don’t want to...” Bianca trailed off, her lips pursing together. “I’ll get through it. I’ve gotten through worse, so,” Bianca gave a little shrug. “Take each day as it comes. The girls are going to be a big help. I have them to focus on, so....” Bianca clicked her tongue. “Katie’s party is on Saturday. I have that to prepare for.”

“How do you feel about Heath being there though?” April questioned.

“He’s her father. He should be there. If we can’t put our problems aside for one afternoon for that little girl then...” Bianca exhaled. “We’re in bigger trouble that I thought.”

“You’ve already split up,” April was a little confused. “How much bigger trouble can there be?”

“To the point where we don’t get along,” Bianca told her sister. “Right now, we....well it’s clear that there’s a lot of love between us and we’ll be those divorcees who still get along.”

“Divorce?” April raised her eyebrows. “So it’s going there?”

“Generally after a couple splits it does, yeah.” Bianca said, once again playing with her wedding rings.

April wanted to tell her sister she felt like she was making a mistake, but of course it wasn’t her place to say and she knew herself if Ruby had a one-night stand she said was meaningless but ended up falling pregnant that she’d find it extremely difficult to forgive her. “Well don’t make any rash decisions, yeah?” April leaned forward and rubbed her arm, Lola jumping from her knee to Bianca’s. Bianca clapped Lola as she exhaled, giving a little nod at what April said.

*****

Toby ran around the living room, showing off his karate suit. He was starting karate today, going to his first class once they’d been to school to pick up Noah, Noah also still going to karate. Toby was already karate chopping as he jumped around the living room. “Bam.” Toby jumped up and kicked the bouncy chair, the chair starting to swing violently.

“Hey,” Brax raised his voice. “Don’t kick the chair like that,” Brax told him. “What if Luca was in there?”

“Then I no kick it,” Toby answered hopping over to the dog’s bed and picking up a toy throwing it across the room. Rolo looked up and thought about going to retrieve it before deciding he was to comfy just chilling out, so he lay his head back down on the bed. Toby frowned before jumping back across the room. “Duh.” Toby turned and stuck his tongue out at his father.

Brax raised his eyebrows as Charlie walked back into the room, Luca in her arms along with a bottle of expressed milk, Toby getting to feed his baby brother before they’d head to school for the twins and then take the boys to their karate lessons. “You sure it’s a good idea to put this one in karate?” Brax questioned as Toby climbed up onto the couch, Charlie placing Luca in his arms, Toby grinning widely at getting to feed his brother. She handed Toby the bottle and made sure he was holding Luca tightly enough before turning to face Brax.

“You want to tell him a reason why he can’t go?” Charlie questioned and Brax exhaled as he shook his head.

“Mummy?” Toby questioned. Charlie looked back at her son, Toby still with a grin on his face as he watched Luca taking his milk.

“What bud?” Charlie questioned.

“Well you see at karate?” Toby said.

“Hmmm.” Charlie sat down on the couch next to her sons.

“Well will I be in Noah’s class?” Toby wondered.

“No,” Charlie shook her head. “Noah is in the orange class. You’ll be in white.”

“I like orange better.” Toby frowned.

“You’ll get orange one day buddy,” Brax told him. “But everyone has to start at the bottom.”

“Hmm,” Toby didn’t look to sure. “Well I will keep Luca safe with my karate,” Toby looked down to his baby brother who was happily taking his bottle. “No one be mean to him when I do karate.”

“I don’t think you need karate for people to be scared of you,” Brax laughed at his son. “I’m sure you’ll still be able to stick up for little bean.”

“Yes,” Toby nodded his head. “I will cos I’m his big brother.”

Charlie smiled as she ran her hand through his curly locks, loving how much Toby adored Luca. “You are a very good big brother.” Charlie told him and Toby grinned up at his mother before settling his eyes back on Luca.

“Let’s just hope it stays that way.” Brax mumbled and Charlie gave a little laugh before continuing to watch her son feeding her youngest.

[Danni02]

Thanks for the comments.

One hundred and sixty-nine

Charlie groaned as the kids came running into the bedroom, all three of them jumping up on the bed. “10 to 7,” Charlie muttered, staring at the clock as she sat up in the bed. “It’s ten to seven,” Charlie looked to Brax who was still lying with his eyes shut. “Get up,” Charlie slapped his arm. “Brax.”

“Daddy.” Ella flung herself down on his chest.

“Ouch,” Brax groaned as his eyes opened. “Jesus Ella,” Brax put his hands on his chest, taking a second to catch his breath. “Don’t do that.”

“Why are you kids up so early?” Charlie questioned. “You know it’s a Saturday, right?” Charlie ruffled Toby’s hair as he cuddled up against her.

“Yeah,” Toby answered turning his head up to face his mother. “It’s Katie’s party cos she’s 5 now.” Toby held up 5 fingers.

“It’s not Katie’s party for another....6 hours.” Charlie yawned.

“Yeah but we need to go get daddy’s glasses,” Toby answered. “His eyes aren’t broken anymore.”

“They still are a bit really,” Noah told his brother. “That’s why he needs glasses to help him see better.”

“I’m going to miss everyone occasionally having two heads.” Brax said and the kids giggled.

“Even so the shop isn’t open for another two hours,” Charlie yawned, noting the opticians wasn’t open till 9 am. “You guys go back to bed.” Charlie spoke sleepily, pushing on Toby slightly so he moved to the side a little allowing his mother to lie down again. Charlie curled up as she closed her eyes to sleep.

“Mum,” Ella pushed on her shoulder. “Mummy.” Ella said again.

Brax looked down to his wife, before looking to the kids. “C’mon, daddy will take you down for breakfast. How about pancakes?” Brax got out of the bed and grabbed his sweats from the floor and put them on before reaching for his t-shirt.

“Yeah.” The kids squealed before jumping down from the bed and running out of the room.

“You alright baby?” Brax looked down to Charlie. She opened her eyes and looked up to her husband.

“I just feel really tired,” Charlie yawned again. “I was up through the night with pains.”

Brax exhaled lightly. Charlie had gone to the doctors on the Monday and it was now Saturday, so more than a few days to get a call back with the results. “We’ll call on Monday if you haven’t heard anything.” Brax said, leaning himself over the bed and rubbing her side.

“Mmm,” Charlie gave a little nod. “Just.....what if they haven’t called because it’s....well they’ve found something not good.”

Brax shook his head. “They’re more likely to call you right away if it’s bad so something can be done about it,” Brax told her. “Now we’re not going to worry today because it’s our niece’s birthday party so it’s a day of fun for everyone.”

“You think it’ll be fun for Heath and Bianca?” Charlie questioned.

“They’ll be fine,” Brax said. “Today will be about Katie. Not them,” Brax told her before leaning down and placing a soft kiss on her forehead. “Little bean is still asleep but I’ll go feed the others,” Brax told her. “You get a couple hours sleep. Then we’ll go into town for my glasses together yeah?” Brax questioned and Charlie gave a little nod as she smiled up at her husband.

“Sounds like a plan.” Charlie yawned and Brax smiled before leaving the bedroom to feed the kids some breakfast as he left Charlie to sleep.

******

Rolo was running around the garden, Lola and Flynn chasing around him, wanting to play. “I can’t believe he is scared of little kittens,” Heath laughed. “He is like a giant compared to those two.” Heath looked at the size difference between the animals, Rolo almost a year old and the kittens both only 10 weeks old.

“He not a giant,” Toby scowled up at his uncle. “He is my doggy Rolo.”

“I know bud,” Heath looked to his nephew. “But you wouldn’t think your dog would be scared of a couple of little kittens, eh?”

“Uhm,” Toby scratched the side of his head. “Uh-uh. He no be’s scared, he just uhm...uhm....” Toby continued to scratch his head. “They need to catch him.” Toby said and Heath gave a little laugh at his nephew.

“Yeah and Lola no scary,” Katie shook her head as she climbed up onto Heath’s knee. Heath wrapped his arm around his daughter, kissing her temple. He looked down to the bottom of the garden where Ruby, April, Darcy and VJ were playing with a ball with the twins, Katie having just come up from there. “She’s a cute little kitten,” Heath screwed his face up, still wishing his girls had wanted puppies and not kittens. “Uncle Brax,” Katie giggled as she looked to her uncle. He was wearing his glasses, simple blacks ones. “You look silly.”

“Yeah,” Toby also giggled at his father’s new look. “But he can see us all much better. We don’t have two heads now.”

“You do look funny,” Heath couldn’t help but laugh. “Will take a bit of getting used to.”

“Yeah,” Brax took his glasses off, looking down at them. “Guess I’d rather have these than no eye sight though.” Brax exhaled as Noah ran up to him.

“Dad,” Noah gasped. “Keep your glasses on,” Noah lifted his father’s hands up so Brax could put his glasses on again. “They will help you see. Take them seriously.” Noah scolded and Brax gave a little laugh, pushing his glasses back on his face.

“Sorry bud I will,” Brax told him. “You guys having fun playing?”

“Yeah,” Noah answered. “But will you come play too?” Noah questioned. “And Toby and Katie and you uncle Heath.” Noah looked to Heath, giving him a pleading smile.

“Sure let’s go.” Heath stood up, lifting Katie from his knee. She ran down to the end of the garden after Toby and Brax and Heath walked down behind them, going to play with the kids.

******

“You can’t hide in here forever.” Charlie said, walking into the bedroom where the babies were sleeping. Bianca looked round to her before looking back down at her daughter.

“Just checking the babies were okay.” Bianca murmured.

“And that takes 10 minutes?” Charlie questioned.

Bianca gave a little shrug. “Heath is spending time with his daughters.”

“You can still be out there,” Charlie told her. “Aren’t you always saying you’ll get along for the sake of the girls?”

“I guess,” Bianca nodded. “It’s just so hard. I love him so much and I.....I wish that we....” Bianca pursed her lips. “I need to get the food ready anyways. Kids will start getting hungry soon, I’d expect.”

“I’m sure they will,” Charlie pursed her lips. “But it’s your daughter’s birthday. You should be out with her,” Charlie told her. “I can finish getting the food ready.”

“And what about you being out there with your kids?” Bianca questioned.

“It’s not their birthday,” Charlie replied. “And it’s probably good for Katie and Darce to see you two can still communicate and get along.”

Bianca clicked her tongue. “I guess so. It’s all about what’s best for them right now,” Bianca mumbled. “Uhm, I eh,” Bianca stopped talking as Charlie’s mobile stared to ring. Charlie pulled it from her pocket, her eyes widening as she saw the number flash across the screen. “What is it?” Bianca took a step closer to her friend.

“It’s the hospital,” Charlie answered. “They must have my results.” This call had been wanted since she pretty much left the hospital but now it was here, Charlie wasn’t ready to hear what they had to say.

“Well answer it.” Bianca told her, worried that the call was about to ring out. Charlie took a deep breath before swiping her finger across the phone answer.

[Danni02]

Thanks Sarah and Red Ranger 1 for the comments.

One hundred and seventy

Charlie and Brax were in the hospital, sitting in a consultation room, waiting for Sid to come in with the news. “I have a bad feeling,” Charlie spoke quietly, fear talking to loud would set her off. “It’s uhm...” Charlie trailed off, shaking her head.

“Charlie,” Brax took a hold of her hand as they both turned their heads to face each other. “It’s all going to be okay.”

Charlie gave a weak smile, trying her hardest to think positive like Brax was. “Sorry to keep you waiting,” Sid walked into the room and took a seat opposite them. “I’ll assume that you just want me to get straight to it?”

“Straight to it?” Charlie mumbled. “So there is something?”

Sid looked down to the notes before looking back to Charlie and Brax. Brax tightened his grip on her hands, ensuring her he was there to support her. “You have what we call a Low Malignant Potential Tumour.” Sid told them. Upon hearing the word malignant, Charlie felt her eyes stinging with tears.

“So it’s that...” Brax took a deep breath. “Is that can...does she have.....what does this mean?” Brax felt his heart beating faster at the news.

“It basically means that while the tumour right now it’s not cancerous, there is a chance that if it was left untreated for too long, that it would become cancerous.” Sid told them.

“So what do we do?” Brax questioned, speaking on behalf of his wife, Brax knowing she couldn’t bring herself to talk just yet.

“We need to do further testing,” Sid told them. “We need to know if this is only on the one ovary or if it has spread to the other or anywhere else in the body,” Sid told them. “After we have established that then we’ll talk about the treatment options.”

“What are....” Charlie took a deep breath. “What are the options?”

Sid looked from Charlie to Brax before looking back to Charlie. He needed to tell her this anyways, so he though he may as well just tell her now. “Chemotherapy or surgery. I would suggest for your case considering you have your family already that the best option for you would be surgery,” Sid told her. “But of course it would be for you to decide.”

“Surgery to remove the tumour?” Brax questioned.

“That’s right,” Sid nodded. “But also, the ovary and fallopian tube to prevent the tumours chances of a return.”

“Uhm,” Charlie pursed her lips. “Just the....just the one where the tumour is?”

“It would depend on if the tumour has spread or not on what we would need to remove,” Sid told them. “And we also need to think about the future and if a tumour was to grow again.”

Brax and Charlie both exhaled deeply, having just been told a lot of hard hitting information. “How soon can you do this test to see if it is just one the one ovary?” Charlie questioned, her hand still in Brax’s, both of them aware of how sweaty they were but they weren’t about to let go any time soon.

“We have space today,” Sid told them. “Now we know what’s wrong it’s best we move with this quickly to avoid change in the tumour.”

Charlie took a deep breath. “Okay. We can do it today, right?” Charlie looked to Brax questioningly.

“Of course.” Brax answered.

“What kind of testing is it?” Charlie questioned. “Is it another blood test? Another ultrasound?”

“We need to do a staging laparotomy,” Sid told them, expecting the look of puzzled faces that were staring back at him. “We’ll make a small incision into the wall of your abdomen to allow us to remove some tissue for testing,” Sid said and Charlie gave a little nod of understanding. “Then after we know the stage of the disease we can plan the best course of treatment.” Sid told them and Charlie took a deep breath as she looked round to her husband, pleased she had him right beside to help her through this.

******

The kids were eating in the garden, April and Ruby sitting with them, keeping an eye on the younger ones. Heath and Bianca were inside, feeding the babies. Luca though, having only ever had breast milk didn’t like the offering of the formula Heath was trying to give him as Bianca fed Freya. “What do I do?” Heath sounded frustrated.

Bianca gave a little shrug. “I don’t know. If he’s not going to take it he’ll have to go hungry till Charlie is back from the hospital.”

“We can’t leave him to go hungry,” Heath sighed. “I dunno, can’t you feed him?”

“No I can’t,” Bianca answered. “Besides the fact I’m all dried up from not breastfeeding Freya, you can’t breastfeed someone else’s baby.” Bianca now regretted not having the closeness of breastfeeding her daughter but of course closeness with her daughter was the last thing she wanted after she was born.

“He’s your nephew.” Heath muttered.

“Like that makes a difference,” Bianca raised her voice. “You’ll just have to keep trying and if he doesn’t feed there’s not much we can do.”

“I could drive home and get a bottle of expressed stuff,” Bianca and Heath looked around as they heard Ruby’s voice. Ruby having just walked into the kitchen to get another jug of juice for the table.

“That’s ten minutes out there, then minutes back,” Heath exhaled. “Poor kid will be starved.”

“Well I’ll take him home.” Ruby sighed.

“Car seat is in your parents’ car.” Heath sighed.

“Well then I’ll borrow Freya’s,” Ruby retorted. “Poor little guy won’t last much longer before he screams,” Luca hardly made a peep usually, but if he was really hungry that’s when you’d be aware of his presence. “Or maybe he just doesn’t like his stupid uncle Heath,” Ruby walked over to the living room, taking her squirming little brother into her arms, before taking the bottle. “Okay little bean, just this once you need to have formula,” Ruby told him. “I promise mummy’s boobies will be back tonight.” Ruby cooed at her little brother as she walked away, hoping she could get him to feed. Heath looked back to Bianca, pursing his lips as he watched her feeing Freya, Freya with her little hands up on the bottle over her mothers. He smiled at her, Bianca managing a weak smile back. He looked down as his phone beeped and groaned at seeing Rose’s name on the screen.

“Don’t keep her waiting.” Bianca mumbled.

“How did you know it was her?” Heath questioned.

Bianca gave a little shrug. “Just a feeling.” Bianca answered.

“Look, I....I’m not ever going to be with her,” Heath told his wife. “It was just those two times.”

“Two?” Bianca widened her eyes. “You’ve slept with her twice?”

“Yeah I,” Heath rubbed the back of his head. “The other night. It was a mistake, I swear. I....well we were supposed to be talking about the baby but she kissed me and I...” Heath bowed his head.

“You’re a single guy,” Bianca tried to sound okay with it but her heart was breaking that Heath slept with her again. “Sleep with who you want.” Bianca mumbled.

“I don’t want anyone but you.” Heath said.

Bianca sniggered. “Funny way of showing it then.” Bianca sighed, looking back down to her daughter who was almost finished her bottle.

“Look, I....” Heath paused. “She is carrying my child. There’s a connection there and I....it’s confusing right now.” Heath played with his wedding ring.

“Yeah,” Bianca clicked her tongue before looking up to see Ruby had left the juice on the worktop after being distracted by trying to get Luca to take the milk. “If you don’t have Luca to feed you should take the juice out to the kids.” Bianca gestured to the jug and Heath looked around to it. He looked back to Bianca and sighed as he stood up before walking across to the kitchen to take the juice out to the kids.