Follow Your Heart

[Danni02]

Thanks for the comments.

one hundred and eighty-one

Ruby and April went to the spa’s pool area after their massages and were currently in the hot hub. “Oh my god that was the best massage I’ve ever had.” Ruby exhaled as she leaned back a little against the side of the hot tub, her arms stretched out over the edge.

April gasped, offended. “What about the massages I give you?” April questioned.

“Oh uhm yeah, of course I wasn’t including them,” Ruby said. “You’re massages are great.” It wasn’t like April’s massages were bad, but of course a professional masseuse was going to do a better job.

“Mmm,” April furrowed her eyebrows. “At least you got a woman,” April sighed. “I had a dude massaging me.” April screwed her face up a little.

“He was super hot,” Ruby gasped. “With his stubble and his cute smile.” Ruby smiled dreamily.

“You’re such a bisexual,” April nudged her girlfriend. “I’d much rather have had that hottie massage you massaging me.” April sighed.

“She was pretty cute,” Ruby laughed. “But if you want a massage from a hot chick then maybe tonight I’ll need to give you one.” Ruby raised her eyebrows and April smiled.

“Not going to say no to that.” April grinned before leaning in and placing a kiss on Ruby’s lips. Ruby smiled into the kiss letting it deepening little before they both pulled back, remembering where they were.

“So what’s next on the agenda?” Ruby questioned, her hand touching April’s thigh under the water.

“Nothing right now to be honest,” April answered. “We obviously have dinner tonight but this afternoon is just for relaxing by the pools. And of course we’ll need to get lunch soon.”

“Maybe we can order room service,” Ruby said. “Lounge around in the bathrobes.”

“In only the bathrobes?” April questioned, raising her eyebrows a little.

“If that’s all you want to wear be my guest,” Ruby grinned. “In fact if you wanted to wear even less I wouldn’t object to that either.” Ruby said.

April once again raised her eyebrows. “We’ll I’m starting to feel a little hungry now, actually, so...” April gestured that they should leave the hot tub. Ruby gave a little nod as they out and wrapped their towels around themselves, walking back in the direction of their room.

******

Charlie’s surgery had gone well and she had been brought back up to recovery. She’s been sleeping the anaesthesia off for a couple of hours now. Her eyes started to flutter before they opened fully, Charlie squinting as the light hit her. She looked to the side and gestured to the jug of water. “Welcome back.” He poured her a glass and handed it to her, Charlie feeling like her throat was blocked. She took a drink before looking up at him.

“Why is your face the first one I see when I wake up?” Charlie questioned.

Heath gave a little laugh. “Brax will be right back. He’s just changing the little one’s nappy.”

Charlie gave a little nod. “So how are things with you and Bianca?” Charlie wondered, wincing slightly as she sat up more in the bed.

“I’m working on getting her back,” Heath answered. “I take it Brax would have told you about Rose and the baby?”

Charlie pursed her lips as she nodded. “She seems to have been quiet the little trouble maker, huh?”

“Let’s just hope none of my girls turn out like that.” Heath mumbled.

Charlie gave a wary smile. “Well you are their father so...” Charlie lips curled into a cheeky grin. “But they do have Bianca for a mother so I’m sure they’ll turn into perfect little ladies,” Charlie told him. “And just....give Bianca time and space right now. You don’t need to be making things worse.”

“Thought you’d be telling me to give up hope,” Heath said. “You’d finally see Bianca with someone you approve of that way.” Heath laughed.

“She loves you. You make her happy and who am I to stand in the way of that?” Charlie questioned. “Besides, you’re not all bad, Heath. You have some fantastic qualities about you.” Charlie said, giving her brother-in-law a smile.

Heath gave a surprised laugh. “It’s only taken you about 8 years to admit that.”

“Believe it or not Heath but you are one of the good ones.” Charlie told him.

“Alright shut up now before we get to mushy,” Heath lightly nudged Charlie’s arm. “How you feeling?”

“I thought you’d never ask,” Charlie laughed. “I’m starving and in a bit of pain,” Charlie ran her hand down her lower stomach. “But I’m alive.”

“Hey, you’re awake.” Brax smiled as he walked back into the room, Luca squirming in his arms.

“This’ll be fun.” Charlie mouthed to Heath. Heath pulled a face of confusion as he moved to the side, letting Brax get to his wife. Brax bent down and placed a soft kiss on her forehead before placing Luca into her arms.

“How you feeling?” Brax asked. “Do you know who we are?”

“Of course,” Charlie answered. “You’re my husband, this is your brother Heath and this little one is my baby Noah,” Charlie cooed down at Luca and Heath looked both puzzled and amused at Charlie. “Where’s Ella?”

“Uh Charlie,” Brax rubbed the back of his head. “Baby this isn’t Noah,” Brax told her, worry washing over him at her apparent memory loss. “Noah and Ella are seven.”

“Yeah,” Charlie nodded. “Seven weeks.”

“No,” Brax glanced at Heath, who was trying not to laugh, knowing Charlie was just teasing Brax. “Bro it’s not funny,” Brax slapped Heath’s arm as he looked like he’d burst into laughter at any moment. “Charlie this is our son Luca,” Brax bend down ran his hand over her hair. “He’s almost 3 months old. We also have a son Toby, he’s four.”

Charlie screwed her face up as she looked at Brax. “No, I.....I don’t remember.”

“Oh God,” Brax rubbed his hand over his forehead. “Heath go get Sid.” Brax raised his voice in panic.

“Nah don’t think it’s necessary bro.” Heath laughed.

“Of course it is,” Brax glared up at his brother before looking back to Charlie who had started to laugh. “Why are you laughing?”

“I’m sorry,” Charlie said. “But I couldn’t resist that. Not after you were talking about it this morning.”

“So you....” Brax shook his head at their little stunt. “You do remember?”

“Of course I do,” Charlie answered. “Apart from being starving and sore I’m fine all up in here.” Charlie hit the side of her head and Brax shook his head at his wife as she and Heath gave another little laugh.

******

Heath walked out of the bedroom, having been putting Katie to bed. “Out like a light,” Heath smiled as he sat down on the couch next to his wife. “Where’d Darce go?”

“Shower,” Bianca glanced at the bathroom before looking back to Heath. “So uhm.... I got a visit from your little friend today.” Bianca pursed her lips.

“Oh.” Heath rubbed the back of his head.

“You put her up to it?” Bianca questioned. She knew Rose said he didn’t, but she needed to check.

“No,” Heath answered. “I haven’t spoken to her since she told me she was never pregnant,” Bianca stared at Heath for a moment, looking into his eyes, seeing he was telling the truth. She gave a little nod, Heath smiling as he knew that she believed him. “What did she want?”

“She told me to give you another chance.” Bianca ran her engagement ring around her finger.

“I see,” Heath exhaled. “And what do you think about that?”

Bianca gave a little shrug. “Like I told you, I....I need some time, Heath,” Bianca took a deep breath. “You think you can give me that?”

“Of course.” Heath nodded and Bianca smiled weakly.

“So, I was thinking of putting Freya into her nursery,” Bianca told him. “Move her out of our room,” Bianca said, smiling into himself at Bianca using the word ‘our’ when talking about the bedroom. “But obviously I’m a bit apprehensive, you know with Rocco and....” Bianca stopped talking. “What do you think?”

“If you still feel a little unsure then hold off a little longer.” Heath said.

“Mmm,” Bianca gave a little nod. “I just feel the longer we leave it the harder it’s going to be to move her.”

“Well there is that,” Heath nodded, looking down at Freya who was lying on her play mat, knocking the little flower rattle, amusing herself. “How about we try her tonight and see how you feel? See if she’ll sleep okay in the cot and how you feel about not being as close to her. You can always move her back to the moses basket in our room if either of you aren’t liking it.”

“Yeah,” Bianca gave a little nod. “Do eh, do you think that you could maybe stay and uhm....just in case anything was to happen. I’d want you hear.”

“I can stay.” Heath told her.

“Thank you,” Bianca gave a thankful smile. “You eh....you can have the couch or I can change the sheets on April’s bed and you can use that.”

“The couch is fine,” Heath told her. “Don’t go to any unnecessary trouble.”

“Okay,” Bianca exhaled. “Uhm...we’ll get her her bottle then it’s bath and bed.” Bianca said, standing and making her way over to the kitchen to prepare the bottle for her daughter, Heath picking Freya up from the play mat and softly kissing her temple, hoping that if he just did what Bianca asked and didn’t push at things that he’d back in their bed with her soon.

[Danni02]

Thanks for the comments.

One hundred and eighty-two

April walked out of the bathroom in only her undies. “Now I feel overdressed.” Ruby said looking down to the blue strapless dress she was wearing.

“Hey,” April sighed. “That’s my dress. I was going to wear that hence why I laid it out on the bed.”

“Yeah but don’t you think it looks hot on me?” Ruby questioned.

“Smoking,” April raised her eyebrows. “But that’s not the point babe.”

Ruby gave a little pout. “You can wear my red dress,” Ruby told her. “You always look hot in that.” Ruby said and April gave a little smile as she walked over to the wardrobe and took the dress from the hanger.

“Guess with the fact that we are in a lesbian relationship means we can wear each other’s clothes and it not be a cause for concern.” April laughed as she walked back over to Ruby.

“Exactly. What’s mine is yours.” Ruby said and April smiled before placing a kiss on Ruby’s lips.

“So,” April pulled back and slipped Ruby’s red dress over her body before turning around. “Zip me,” April said and Ruby pulled the zip up. “I was thinking. You know I’ve brought you out here, we had a lovely lunch and are about to go out for a romantic candlelit dinner courtesy of me and we have tomorrow...” April turned back around to face Ruby. “Did you uhm....get me a gift by any chance?”

“Did you just seriously ask for your present?” Ruby questioned and April bit her lip as she nodded. “Well baby I gave you you’re present this afternoon.” Ruby said raising her eyebrows suggestively.

“What?” April questioned. “You didn’t give me anything.”

Ruby mocked a gasp. “Are you telling me you faked it?”

“Oh no you certainly did give me that,” April exhaled and Ruby grinned. “But I hate that you are making me wait.” April gave a sad pout.

“You really want it now?” Ruby questioned and April gave a nod of excitement, really wanting to see her gift from Ruby. “Okay,” Ruby walked over to her case and zipped it open, taking out the box. She walked over to April and handed it to her, April looking more excited than a little kid at Christmas for her gift. “There you go.” Ruby said as April ripped at the gold wrapping paper. She opened the box and laughed as she saw a photo frame with a picture of Mila Kunis inside. “Well I know she is your one true love.”

“I know this is a joke but I actually do love it,” April said as she looked up at Ruby. “I mean, look at that sexiness.” April showed Ruby the picture and Ruby raised her eyebrows.

“Well happy anniversary sweets.” Ruby grinned cheekily.

“But seriously, don’t I get a present?” April pouted.

“Oh so very demanding,” Ruby muttered. “Tomorrow. You get your present tomorrow,” Ruby told her. “Now, let’s go out for this romantic candlelit dinner you spoke off.” Ruby said and April gave a little nod, the pair going to finish getting ready so they could go out for dinner.

******

Brax walked into Ella’s room, seeing his daughter still had her little side light on. “I thought I put you to bed.” Brax walked over to her bed and sat down on the edge.

“I got back up,” Ella told him. “We have something very important to organise.” Ella glanced up at her father and Brax chuckled in amusement before looking down to the notepad that was in her hand.

“And what’s that?” Brax asked, taking his glasses out of his shirt pocket and putting them on. He would occasionally take them off when he was in the house, still not used to wearing them all the time, although he knew if he kept taking them off, he never would get used to them.

“Mummy’s party.” Ella told him.

“Mum’s getting a party?” Brax questioned.

“Of course,” Ella gasped. “She has no more tumours so we must throw her a party, father.” Ella looked up to Brax and Brax bit his bottom lip at Ella’s use of the word ‘father’.

“I see,” Brax nodded his head. “And when is this party going to be?” Brax wondered.

“When she gets home from the hospital tomorrow,” Ella told him, her tone stating the question didn’t need to be asked. “Now I have a list of things you need to get,” Ella said, glancing down at her notepad. “Can you get them for me?” Ella questioned.

Brax looked down to his daughters writing and read the list out loud. Balloons, wellcum home mummy bannor, “Petal does your school not teach you how to spell?” Brax questioned.

“I just don’t know those words yet,” Ella told him. “I just write it as it sounds,” Ella said. “I’m only seven daddy. I’ve not been in proper school that long.”

“Hmm,” Brax exhaled, looking back down to the list. Flowers for mummy, more juis boxes, gummy worms for Toby, rolo’s for Noah, popcorn, chips, stuff to make cupcakes, “It’s an awfully big list on such short notice.”

“But it’s a party for mummy,” Ella sighed before turning the notepad over. “That’s who we need to invite,” Brax read the list and of course it had who he’d expected. Heath, Bianca, Darcy, Katie and Freya. Ella’s beloved Uncle Heath being at the top of the list. “I wanted Ruby and April too but they’s not here.” Ella pouted sadly.

“I’m sure you’ll still have fun without them.” Brax told his daughter.

“So we can do it?” Ella’s little face lit up.

“Of course,” Brax replied. “But there are a few things we can’t do,” Brax shook his head as he looked back to the list, still having things he needed to read. “Like I’m won’t be able to get a bouncy castle on such short notice but we can still do the barbeque and you guys can play in the swimming pool, deal?”

“Deal.” Ella held her hand out and Brax laughed before shaking hands with his daughter.

“And I’m not so great with the baking thing either,” Brax screwed his face up. “Maybe Auntie Bianca will be able to help you with that, huh?”

“Yes she will,” Ella nodded. “And Katie cos she likes to bake too. Tell them to come early.” Ella instructed.

“I will,” Brax nodded. “But you need to get to sleep now, okay?” Brax took the pen and notepad from her and put it down on the floor by the side of her bed. He leaned down and kissed her cheek. “Goodnight petal.” Brax whispered.

“Night dad.” Ella said as she lay down and got herself comfy. Brax turned the side light off before walking out of the room, leaving Ella to get some sleep.

******

Bianca and Heath were standing over the cot, Freya sound asleep in her new sleeping place. “Can you believe she actually settled quicker in here than she would in her moses basket?” Bianca questioned.

“My little Princess knows what she wants,” Heath smiled. “Now the task is to get mummy to stop watching over her.” Heath looked to Bianca as he spoke. It was no secret that Bianca liked to sit over the moses basket when Freya had been put down to sleep. Sometimes she would only be there for 5 minutes until she assured herself she’d be safe but sometimes it was an hour or even longer.

“It’s her first night,” Bianca sighed. “Just a few more minutes. I need to be sure.”

“Okay.” Heath gave a little nod as he rubbed Bianca’s back, Heath smiling lightly as she didn’t pull away.

“She sleeps the same as Rocco,” Bianca spoke quietly. “One arm above her head the other bent close to her face. “She looks like him more and more each day.”

“I know,” Heath exhaled. “But it’s nice. It’s....he’s always with us through his little sister.” Heath bowed his head a little. He loved his little girls more than anything but he’d be lying if he said he didn’t wish he had a son, or at least a son who was alive who he could see growing up.

“I wonder what kind of brother he would have been,” Bianca mused. “The helpful kind or the Freya is so annoying kind.” Bianca gave a little laugh.

“I’m sure we’d have raised him to be a very loving big brother.” Heath said, continuing to rub Bianca’s back.

“Yeah,” Bianca nodded. “We might have lost a son but we did get a wonderful daughter out of it,” Bianca exhaled, knowing she had to try to see the positive out of this. “Katie is just....” Bianca paused. “Well I’d give anything for her.”

“I know you would,” Heath smiled. “She lucked out getting you as a mother,” Heath said and Bianca pursed her lips as she gave him a smile, looking into his eyes. “This is the point where you are supposed to say the same back to me. That Katie lucked out having me as a father.”

“Ah see I didn’t get that.” Bianca joked, still staring deep into his eyes. He was so handsome and she loved him very much. Heath gave another grin, Bianca feeling her knees weaken as she spotted his dimples. She pursed her lips before leaning forward and placing a soft kiss on his lips.

“Or you can say that.” Heath mumbled before he went in for another kiss with his wife.

[Danni02]

Thank you Sarah and Red Ranger 1 for the comments.

One hundred and eighty-three

Charlie was sitting in the car as Brax drove her home from the hospital. He’d noticed Charlie had pulled at the seatbelt so the part that normally sat around her stomach was stretched out, not touching her body. “You okay?” Brax questioned glancing at her before looking back to the road.

“Yeah,” Charlie answered. “It was just sitting right where my stitches are. They’re still a little sore.”

“I see.” Brax gave a little nod.

“I just want to go home and not do much today, to be honest,” Charlie said. “You and the kids can have a quiet day, right?”

“Uhm,” Brax pursed his lips. “Well I’m not sure that’ll happen to be honest.” Brax once again glanced at Charlie before looking back to the road.

“Why?” Charlie asked. “Brax, what is it?” Charlie knew something was going on.

“Nothing bad,” Brax exhaled, indicating to turn right at the junction. “You know you have a little party princess at home,” Brax said. “She wanted to do something to celebrate you coming home safe from the hospital.”

“It’ll only be Bianca, Heath and the kids, right?” Charlie said and Brax gave a little nod as a reply. “Well you and Heath can do all the fun stuff and Bianca and I can relax with the babies,” Charlie told him. “Do they both know that the other is coming?” Charlie wondered, not wanting anything to happen, especially when all the kids would be around.

“Yeah,” Brax nodded. “Heath was actually at Bianca’s when I called this morning. I think he might have spent the night.” Brax couldn’t be sure if he did, but if he didn’t he was around awfully early.

“Oh,” Charlie widened her eyes. “You think they are getting back together?” Charlie knew how much Bianca loved Heath and knew that it would always be a possibility.

“I dunno.” Brax indicated left, pulling up into their driveway. Charlie smiling as she saw balloons on the fencing outside of the house.

“You’ve went all out,” Charlie grinned. “You are aware I was only gone a night, right?”

“Of course,” Brax parked up the car and turned off the ignition. “You are aware of Ella’s parties, right?”

“Yeah,” Charlie gave a chuckle as she took her seatbelt off and got out the car, the front door opening and her 3 elder kids running out to greet her followed by Darcy and Katie and lastly Bianca and Heath with the babies. “Hey my lovelies.” Charlie smiled as Rolo came bounding out the door, his tail wagging in excitement and his mummy being back. Although Rolo loved everyone, he always went to Charlie first. Rolo put his paws up on her legs and Charlie clapped him.

“Rolo,” Toby pushed him to the side. “She’s my mummy first.” Toby scowled at the dog before wrapping both his arms around one of Charlie’s, hugging her close.

“Hey kiddo. You miss me?” Charlie ruffled his hair.

Toby nodded his head. “We got a party for you. I got gummy worms.” Toby shrieked.

“No Toby,” Ella stomped her foot. “I’ll tell her, it’s my party.”

“It’s not yours,” Noah barked. “It’s mummy’s party.”

“Alright kids, lets mummy get inside,” Brax said ushering the kids away from her as all three were pulling at her for hugs. “Go in, inside.” Brax told them and the kids ran off back into the house. Charlie took Luca from Heath and softly kissed his temple.

“Hey little bean,” Charlie cooed as Luca gave his mother a big gummy smile. “You being good for Uncle Heath?” Charlie questioned as they all walked back into the house, the kids already jumping around as Darcy put on some music so they could have their little party.

“I did the sign.” Noah said, running over to his mother. Charlie looked up to see the ‘Welcome home Mummy’ sign and smiled as she ruffled Noah’s hair.

“It’s awesome buddy, good job.” Charlie told him.

“And these are from me,” Brax appeared back beside her with a bunch of roses. “I know you were only gone a day but it’s nice to have you home.” Brax smiled before leaning in and placing a kiss on his wife’s lips.

******

Ruby and April were waiting in a large grassy area. April hadn’t said much more about what they’d be doing that day, which really annoyed Ruby. She was dying to know, but as it was getting nearer and nearer to 10am, she knew she’d get to know soon. She put her hand into her bag, feeling the ring box and exhaled nervously for her proposal later on that day. “You look nervous.” April put her hand on Ruby’s thigh, rubbing it gently.

“uh-uh,” Ruby sucked in her bottom lip. “I’m all good. Just trying to think what it could be we are doing.”

“Maybe it’s nothing,” April teased. “Maybe I’m just sitting you out here for nothing at all.”

“Well I’m sure we could think of something to get up too,” Ruby raised her eyebrows suggestive. “Out here, not many cars passing....” Ruby bit her lip as she looked her girlfriend up and down.

“Really?” April questioned. “In public?”

Ruby gave a little shrug as she looked around. “We’ve been sitting here going on 20 minutes and I’ve not seen anyone else,” Ruby answered. “So, yeah...I would.”

“Okay then,” April raised her eyebrows. “Guess that’s good to know...maybe,” April screwed her face a little unsure. “Oh here they come.” April hit Ruby’s side as she saw the truck approaching. Ruby saw the big basket in the back of the truck and saw the words ‘hot air ballooning’ displayed on the side of the truck.

“Oh my God,” Ruby shrieked. “A hot air balloon?” Ruby questioned. “You are taking me in a hot air balloon?”

“Mmm,” April nodded as she grinned at Ruby’s excitement. “I thought it would be romantic.”

“To right it will be,” Ruby jumped down from the fence. “Sweets this is amazing.” Ruby squealed excitedly as April jumped down from sitting on the fence, glad that Ruby was pleased with the little trip they were about to have.

“Yeah, I can’t wait for it either,” April smiled. “We’ll go over to this lake area where we’ll get a champagne brunch before they’ll drive us back to the Spa.”

“Aww baby, I love this, thank you so much.” Ruby pulled April close to her and placed a kiss on her lips.

“My pleasure,” April smiled as she pulled back and cupped Ruby’s cheek with her hand. “Happy Anniversary baby.” April whispered.

“Happy Anniversary.” Ruby smiled before they shared another kiss.

******

The kids were playing in the pool with Heath as Brax was getting the barbeque ready. Charlie and Bianca were in the kitchen, getting the food ready to bring outside. Charlie watched as Bianca stared out of the kitchen window, looking at Heath as he threw Toby away, Toby splashing into the water. “You going to make me ask you?” Charlie said as she put the cucumber onto the chopping board.

“Huh? What?” Bianca looked around to Charlie.

“C’mon,” Charlie leaned herself against the worktop before gesturing her head out to Heath. “I’ve seen the way you’ve looked at each other all morning. Something has happened,” Bianca shook her head a little as she shrugged. “Okay,” Charlie exhaled as she held her hands out in front of her. “Keep it to yourself.”

Bianca glanced at Heath again before looking back to Charlie. “It was just a kiss.” Bianca licked her lip.

“Oooh,” Charlie raised her eyebrows. “You sure it was just a kiss?”

“Yes,” Bianca answered. “He slept on the couch still.”

“Well I actually meant was it really only a kiss or did it actually mean something more to you, but while you’ve mentioned it, why did he stay over?” Charlie asked.

“We moved Freya into her nursery,” Bianca told her. “I’m still not the best at leaving her to sleep so I wanted him there to help out and....just in case.” Bianca bit her bottom lip as she looked away from Charlie, once again glancing at Heath who was being attacked in the pool from all sides, all 5 kids pulling on him.

“Fair enough,” Charlie murmured. “So you think this was just a kiss for Heath?” Bianca glared at Charlie, her eyebrows scrunched. “Sorry stupid question. All he wants is to get back with you,” Charlie exhaled. “Well I’m not really convinced it was, but, if it was only a kiss for you then you need to set the record straight with Heath because I’m sure the last thing you want to do is hurt him.”

“I know,” Bianca nodded. “I just....” Bianca paused for a moment. “I need to figure out what it did mean for me. I....I love him, there’s no doubt about that but I.....I’m just not sure getting back together is what’s best for us.”

“Well it is only for you to decide,” Charlie replied. “But for what it’s worth, I think getting back together is exactly what’s best for both of you.” Charlie said and Bianca pursed her lips as she once again looked out to Heath, thinking about what Charlie said.

[Danni02]

Thank you Red Ranger 1, Spotd1, Sarah and Sabrina for the comments.

One hundred and eighty four

Ruby and April were sitting on a picnic blanket, eating their brunch as they drank their champagne. “That was so much fun sweets,” Ruby smiled. “It must have cost you a bomb.”

“Nothing you’re not worth,” April told her. “Floating along, up the air, with my love by my side looking out at our beautiful country.....it’s worth spending money on that.” April said and Ruby smiled as she ran her hand in circles around April’s knee.

“You really have spoiled me this weekend,” Ruby said. “I’d have been happy with fish and chips on the pier.”

“Well now you tell me,” April sighed and Ruby gave a little laugh. “But, there is one more thing.” Ruby raised her eyebrows, wondering what else April had for her. She’d already done so much. April reached into her bag and pulled out the box, Ruby wondering if she was about to be beaten to a proposal. It was definitely jewellery, but the box looked a little too large to be a ring box, but then again, maybe it was just in a big box. Ruby took the box into her hand and opened it slowly, gasping a little as she saw the necklace. April’s elephant necklace that Ruby had worn since she’d gave her it over 5 years ago now. Ruby exhaled as she ran her hand over the pendant. “I thought you might like to wear it again,” April said, April of course having kept it when Ruby gave her it back as they were going through their rough patch. Ruby looked up at her with a smile on her face. April took the necklace from the box and Ruby turned to the side and lifted her hair out of the way as April put the necklace on her. “That looks better,” April rubbed Ruby’s arm before leaning forward and softly kissing her temple. Ruby smiled as she held the pendant in her hand. “A symbol of our love and commitment.”

Ruby smiled thinking now would be the best time to propose. “I uhm...” Ruby took a deep breath. “It’s my turn to give out presents.” Ruby reached into her bag, taking another deep breath.

“Why you so nervous?” April questioned. “I’m sure it’s great.”

Ruby licked her lip as she looked to her gorgeous girlfriend. “April I....when you first told me you were a lesbian and that you liked me, I.....well it’s no secret I was knocked for six,” Ruby laughed nervously. “But then we started this amazing thing and....when we broke up and I lost you I was devastated.”

“Yeah but we found our way back to each other,” April rubbed Ruby’s arm. “True love last forever.”

“I know and I couldn’t be happier that we got back together. I love you more than I ever thought was possible to love another human being. You are the person I want to wake up next to everyday for the rest of our lives. I want to dance all my dances with you, travel this world with you and....I want us to one day have a family. You are my life April Scott,” Ruby felt herself welling up. “And I want to share our love with the world. I want....I want to be able to call you my wife and let everyone know that I’m committed to you till the end, so, in saying that, April Scott, will you be my wife?” Ruby took the ring box from her bag and opened it, April gasping as she saw the shiny white gold ring and the round diamond sparkling in the middle.

“Yes,” April nodded as she felt herself welling up. She wasn’t expecting a proposal. “Yes. A thousand times yes.” April said as Ruby put the ring onto April’s finger before they met in a kiss.

******

“Kitty’s, kitty’s mummy is home,” Katie ran into the house, looking for the kittens. “Oh kitty’s,” Katie ran over to where the kittens were laying, both of them having a little snooze. “Hello.” Katie sat in front of the kittens, each hand clapping one.

“I don’t like it, Bianca.” Heath sighed, putting the car seat down on the coffee table and lifting Freya out.

“Don’t like what?” Bianca questioned, turning to face her estranged husband.

“Darcy going to VJ’s.” Heath put Freya down on her play mat before taking a seat on the couch. Bianca sighed as she sat down beside him. Darcy going around to VJ’s now they were home from the party.

“I think we’ve had this discussion before.” Bianca sighed.

“Yeah,” Heath exhaled. “Well she’s just a kid.”

“She’s a teenager, Heath,” Bianca told him. “We need to loosen the reins on her a little.”

“But do we?” Heath questioned. “She’s just lost her mother. Isn’t that a reason to keep her away from boys so she doesn’t do anything stupid?”

Bianca sighed lightly. “Nina and Jett were going around as well,” Bianca said. “And I’m pretty sure that Leah won’t let them hang out in VJ’s room anyways.”

“What if Leah and Miles aren’t home?” Heath questioned.

Bianca shook her head, saddened Heath didn’t trust his daughter. “Would you’re worrying stop if I talked to her?” Bianca questioned.

“Who? Leah?” Heath questioned. “Set down some rules for the kids hanging out?”

“No, I meant Darcy,” Bianca said. “I’m pretty sure she’ll know about sex and how babies happen and things but....” Bianca bit her lip. “If it would stop you worrying if I talked to her, then I will.”

“You’re not going to put her on the pill or anything, are you?” Heath wondered.

“Yes Heath,” Bianca exhaled. “I’m going to put your 13 year old daughter on the pill,” Bianca shook her head. “Don’t be so silly. Of course that’s not going to happen.”

“Good,” Heath said, sounding relieved. “But have a talk with her. Let her know....you know....yeah.” Heath cleared his throat.

“Okay,” Bianca answered before looking down to Freya who was yawning as she looked up at her mother from the play mat. “She’ll need her bottle and nap if you want to do it?” Bianca questioned.

“Sure.” Heath gave her a smile before getting up and walking over to the kitchen to prepare her bottle.

Katie looked up at Bianca with furrowed eyebrows before getting up and running to the couch, climbing up and sitting next to her mother. “You have a good time at the party?” Bianca ran her hand through Katie’s ponytail as she spoke.

“Yeah,” Katie yawned. “I’m tired it was so much fun.”

“To much swimming I think, huh?” Bianca said and Katie gave a little nod.

“Eh mummy?” Katie questioned. “Why is the kittens still sleeping? I want to play with them.”

“They must still be tired,” Bianca told her daughter. “Why don’t you go pick a game though and mummy will play with you.” Bianca suggested and Katie grinned before jumping off the couch, running over to her bedroom to pick a game for her mother.

“Right my princess,” Heath came back to the room from being in the kitchen, a bottle in his hand, ready to feed Freya. “We’ll get you fed, huh?” Heath lifted Freya into his arms and settled himself on the couch, Freya immediately taking the bottle, her little hands coming up and resting over Heaths. Bianca watched Heath as he smiled down at his daughter. “What?” Heath glanced at Bianca, seeing a smile on her face.

“Nothing,” Bianca cleared her throat as she stood up from the couch. “I eh, I’m going to help Katie pick a game.” Bianca said before walking through to the bedroom to Katie.

******

Charlie was standing over the moses basket, having put Luca down for his nap. She ran her hand over her stomach as she felt her eyes welling up with tears. “The movie is ready to play,” Brax walked into their room. “You okay baby?” Brax questioned, upon seeing his wife.

“Mmm.” Charlie lips were pursed as she wiped her hand over her eyes.

“Are you in pain?” Brax questioned. “I can get you some painkillers.”

“No no,” Charlie shook her head. “It’s just....” Charlie exhaled, turning to face her husband. “Before this tumour, we.....we always had that option, you know,” Charlie said. “I could have kids but now...” Charlie shook her head. “I just don’t like that the choice isn’t with us anymore.”

“Not like we would chose to have a 6th child anyways.” Brax exhaled as he rubbed her upper arms.

“That’s not the point, Brax,” Charlie sighed. “This is what.....women have babies and now I don’t have half the things we need to make those babies. I.....I feel empty.” Charlie bowed her head.

“You’re not empty. Stop being silly.” Brax gave a little laugh as he rubbed her upper arm.

Charlie glared at him for a moment. “Stop being silly,” Charlie repeated as she shook her head in disbelief at his reply. “Of course that’s what I am being. I’m just being silly right?” Charlie shrugged herself away from Brax and walked over to the door of the bedroom.

“Charlie,” Brax sighed as he walked after her. “Don’t be like that.”

“I’m not being like anything,” Charlie said as she made her way down the stairs. “You said the kids were ready to watch a movie so let’s watch one.” Charlie walked into the living room where her kids were sitting waiting on her return, Toby clutching onto his bag of half eaten gummy worms.

“We got one ready, mum,” Toby told her. “You’ll love it.”

“And what is it?” Charlie asked sitting herself down on the couch, the twins quickly jumping up and sitting one at each side of her, cuddling into her. Toby looked at his siblings and scowled before he climbed up and sat on Charlie’s knee, leaning his head back so it was resting against her chest.

“Wreck-It-Ralph.” Ella answered with a slight sighing sound to her tone.

“Ah it must have been Noah’s pick then,” Charlie poked Noah’s side and he gave a little giggle. “You still loving this one bud?”

“Always,” Noah answered as Brax took a seat on the arm chair. “You like it too, eh daddy?” Noah glanced at Brax for a moment.

“It’s good bud,” Brax answered. “You kids move off your mother, give her some space eh.” Brax said and the kids frowned, clearly wanting some mummy cuddles.

“They’re fine,” Charlie said, not glancing at Brax. “Baby hit the play on the remote.” Charlie ran her hand over Noah’s hair before he leaned forward picking the remote up from the coffee table, hitting play so they could watch the movie.

[Danni02]

Thanks for the comments.

One hundred and eighty-five

Charlie rinsed her toothbrush out under the tap before putting it in the holder. She yawned as she walked out of the en-suite, flicking off the bathroom light. She sat down on the edge of her bed, picking up her hand cream and squirting a little on her hand, rubbing it in before picking up the sheet and getting into bed. “Third time I’ve had to take him back to bed,” Brax laughed a little as he walked into their room. “To much on a high from the party and the cupcakes and fizzy juice and gummy worms,” Brax said as said as he slipped into his side of the bed. He looked at Charlie as she glared at him. “You know you shouldn’t go to bed angry.”

“Who said I’m angry?” Charlie questioned.

Brax gave a little shrug. “Pretty obvious. You’ve hardly said a word to me since this afternoon.”

“Well the kids were keeping us entertained and we watched a couple of movies,” Charlie answered. “And I’m tired. I’ve just had anaesthesia and I have painkillers to take.” Charlie exhaled as she fluffed her pillow a little before lying back onto it.

“Well forgive me for not believing that’s all this is,” Brax said, moving a little closer to Charlie in the bed. “If you want to talk about what was on your mind before then -”

“No no,” Charlie shook her head. “There’s nothing to talk about. Like you said, I was just being silly.” Charlie spoke coldly as she turned onto her side, her back facing Brax.

“Charlie.” Brax put his hand onto her shoulder but she immediately shrugged him off. He sighed lightly and was about to speak again when the door creaked open and Toby came into their room and climbed up onto the bed, sliding under the sheets in between his parents.

“What do you think you are doing here mister?” Charlie turned to face her son who was looking at her with a cheeky grin on his face, almost giggling. “Back to your own bed, good boy.” Charlie brought her hand up and rubbed over his head.

“No,” Toby shook his head. “Luca gets to sleep in here.” Toby pointed to his little brother.

“That’s because Luca is a baby,” Brax told his son. “You’re not a baby, are you?”

“No,” Toby answered. “I’m 4 daddy,” Toby held up 4 fingers as he looked up at his father. “That’s not a baby.”

“Well then you don’t need to stay in mummy and daddy’s bed, do you?” Brax questioned. “Big boys like you sleep in their own beds.”

“No,” Toby shook his head. “You’re bed is biggest and best,” Toby got himself comfy and lay down in between his parents. “And mummy is home so I will see mummy if I stay.” Toby cuddled a little closer to Charlie. She lightly rubbed his side before glancing at Brax.

“Turn your side light off so we can sleep.” Charlie told him before laying down, pulling Toby even closer to her. Brax watched as she placed a kiss on her sons head before he sighed lightly, leaning forward to switch the light off so they could get some sleep.

******

Ruby rested her elbow against the mattress, holding her head up with her hand. She smiled as she watched her girlfriend sleeping, totally mesmerized by her beauty. She couldn’t believe how lucky she was that she’d just agreed to commit her life to her. “You know that’s really creepy watching me sleep.” April said as she opened her eyes.

“Then I’m a creep,” Ruby said, running her fingers down April’s shoulder and April gave a little laugh. “I can’t help it,” Ruby told her. “You are just so goddamn beautiful.”

April smiled, looking into Ruby’s eyes. “I love waking up next you,” April told her. “I wish we could do it every day.”

“We could,” Ruby exhaled. “You were supposed to be moving in with me anyways. Let’s make that happen.” Ruby softly brushed the hair back from April’s face.

“How about I don’t move in to your mum’s place.” April said, getting up so she was laying the same way as Ruby.

“Well then we wouldn’t be living together,” Ruby spoke sadly. “Don’t you want to live with me?” Ruby questioned, a sadness to her tone.

“Rubes I’ve just agreed to marry you, of course I want to live with you,” April lightly rubbed Ruby’s arm. “I was thinking....maybe we could look for a place of our own.”

Ruby raised her eyebrows, both surprised but excited about the idea. “You think we can afford too?”

“We’ve both been working heaps lately and saving like crazy,” April told her. “Granted this anniversary weekend has probably cost both of us a bit, but yeah, I do believe we will can afford it,” April said. “I’m not talking a 10 bedroom mansion here, I’m thinking more like a studio apartment or a two bed roomed place tops,” April said, before pursing her lips, trying to read Ruby’s thoughts on this. “So, what do you think?”

“I’d love to find a place with you,” Ruby smiled. “We should start looking when we get back.”

April grinned widely. “We’ll that’s it settled,” April said, before looking down to her engagement ring and grinning. “I love life so much right now.”

“Me too,” Ruby raised her eyebrows before pulling April in for a kiss. “Now my future Mrs Buckton-Scott, come here and kiss me.” Ruby said before placing a soft kiss on April lips.

“Mmm,” April pursed her lips. “I love the sound of that,” April kissed Ruby again. “But it’s going to be Scott-Buckton.” April mumbled before they once again met in a kiss.

******

Darcy walked out of the bedroom as she gave a stretch. “Morning sleepyhead.” Bianca smiled at her stepdaughter.

“Hey,” Darcy answered. “Where are Katie and Freya?” Darcy bent down as she was greeted by two bouncy kittens.

“They’re out with your dad,” Bianca told her. “You want breakfast?”

“Toast,” Darcy replied. “So, how come dad didn’t want to talk me out?” Darcy seemed a little saddened by this.

“He did,” Bianca put the bread into the toaster. “But you were still asleep when he came around and he wanted me to talk with you first.” Bianca leaned herself against the little arch between the kitchen and the living area.

“What about?” Darcy wondered. Bianca pursed her lips before gesturing over to the couch, the pair of them going across to take a seat.

“You’ve been spending a lot of time with VJ lately and you’re dad is a little concerned that you might,” Bianca pursed her lips, needing a moment to come out and say it. “Well you are still in a vulnerable place right now and...”

“I’m not about to have sex, if that’s what he is thinking,” Darcy screwed her face up, looking a little disgusted by the thought. “He’s just.....I like him but, you know, we are no way going to have sex.”

Bianca exhaled. “I told your dad not to worry, but, well I can’t ever stop him worrying about his daughter, can I?” Bianca questioned and Darcy shook her head a little. “But while we are on the subject, you know how -”

“Oh God you are not about to give me a sex talk, are you?” Darcy questioned. “Because I have had that very embarrassing conversation with my mother already.”

“I just want you know that if you ever have any questions or want to ask anything, don’t be scared to come to me, okay?” Bianca rubbed Darcy’s arm as she spoke and Darcy gave a little nod.

“Sure I will,” Darcy nodded. “I’d rather talk to you than my dad.” Darcy widened her eyes at the thought and Bianca gave a little laugh.

“So, you and VJ,” Bianca nudged Darcy’s arm. “Just friends?”

Bianca saw Darcy’s face going red. “I like him,” Darcy sort of shrugged. “And I thought he liked me but every time we’ve hung out lately Nina and Jett are around.”

“And you want Darcy VJ time, do you?” Bianca gave a little chuckle as Darcy nodded. “Well invite him round for dinner tonight.” Bianca suggested.

“Yeah?” Darcy smiled and Bianca nodded as they heard the toaster pop. Bianca stood up and walked over to the kitchen. “What about dad?”

“Leave your dad to me.” Bianca answered from the kitchen as she lightly buttered the toast. Darcy gave a little smile before pursing her lips.

“Bianca?” Darcy questioned. “I uhm....well I do have one question.”

“Oh what’s that?” Bianca was a little intrigued to hear what Darcy wanted to ask.

“Uhm,” Darcy took a deep breath. “Well with you and dad being separated and me probably going to end up living with him once he gets a new place...are you still.....this you being here for me still applies, right?”

Bianca walked back through to the living area, putting the toast down on the coffee table. “Of course it does,” Bianca bent down in front of her. “I’m always going to be here for you.”

“But why?” Darcy questioned. “I mean, you’re not my mum, technically not really even my step mum....why do you care?” Darcy wondered. “I’m not...I don’t really have to be your responsibility. I mean...biologically, we are not connected.”

“That’s irrelevant,” Bianca put her hand onto Darcy’s knee, seeing she needed to feel like she still belonged. “It’s not about where you come from,” Bianca told her. “It’s about where you belong and you will always be a part of my family.” Bianca lightly rubbed Darcy’s knee before leaning up and placing a soft kiss on her forehead, Darcy smiling at Bianca’s words.

[Danni02]

Thank you Red Ranger 1 and Spotd1 for the comments.

One hundred and eighty-six

Brax walked into the en-suite, seeing Charlie standing there in her underwear, running her hand over her stitches. “You know I was only trying to help.” Brax leaned against the wall watching as Charlie looked up to him.

“What?” Charlie questioned. “By calling me silly for being upset?” Charlie walked out of the bathroom and opened her wardrobe, taking out a pair of denim shorts and putting them on.

Brax walked out of the bathroom, his eyes still on his wife. “Well I’m sorry but I’m not a woman,” Brax sighed. “I don’t understand how you’re feeling about this.”

Charlie walked over to her drawers and took out a grey and yellow stripy singlet. “You don’t have to understand it,” Charlie murmured as she put the singlet over her head, pulling it down her stomach. “You’re just supposed to make me feel like you are there for me, helping me through my upset.”

Brax pursed his lips as Charlie glared at him. “I’m sorry. I should have tried to be more supportive,” Brax walked closer to his wife. “We can talk about it if you still want to.”

Charlie considered it for a moment before she shook her head. “You’re right. You’re not a woman so you won’t understand. I eh....I’ll talk to another woman about it,” Charlie clicked her tongue. “But you know I’m going to change a bit, right?”

“How so?” Brax questioned.

“Well I don’t have my ovaries or...” Charlie pursed her lips. “I’m going to go through menopause. I might have mood swings, feel irritable, my sex drive might go down, I....” Charlie exhaled.

“Well as long as you don’t grow a beard I’m sure we’ll can cope,” Brax joked and Charlie gasped as she slapped his chest. “Besides, I heard during this menopause thing that your sex drive could also increase.” Brax raised his eyebrows.

“Mmm you should be so lucky,” Charlie muttered. “Anyways, where have you left the kids?”

“Ah they got sick of waiting for mummy,” Brax told her. “Noah took the car and drove the others to the aquarium.”

Charlie gave a little laugh. “He’s a good one that Noah.” Charlie said and Brax nodded as he wrapped his arms around his wife’s waist.

“Well he does take after his mother.” Brax said before placing a soft kiss on Charlie’s lips.

“Good answer,” Charlie mumbled before they kissed again. “But seriously, where are the kids?”

“Noah is watching Luca who is in his bouncy chair,” Brax answered. “Ella and Toby were annoying the dog.”

“His name is Luca Thomas,” Noah said as he walked into the room, holding Luca in his arms. “And he smells.” Noah screwed his face up.

“Hey you know mummy doesn’t like you carrying Luca up the stairs.” Brax told his son as he took Luca into his arms. Charlie of course liked the fact the kids wanted to help out and hold Luca but preferred it if they were sitting down while holding him.

“Luca Thomas,” Noah sighed. “And he’s fine. Can we go to the aquarium now?”

“Sure we can buddy,” Charlie ruffled her son’s hair. “Daddy will just change Luca then we can go, okay?” Noah gave a little smile. “Go make sure the other two are ready.” Charlie said and Noah ran out of the bedroom, doing as he was told.

“Daddy will change him?” Brax questioned.

“Well you are holding him,” Charlie said. “Make sure that’s filled up for our day out too.” Charlie pointed to the nappy bag before leaving the room, leaving Brax to deal with Luca as she went to check on the rest of their children.

******

“Darcy,” Katie shrieked as Darcy and Bianca walked down the beach. “Darcy you will take me to the water, eh?” Katie pulled on her hand.

“Let me get my clothes off first.” Darcy pulled her hand away before throwing her bag down to the sand and taking off her singlet and shorts.

“Daddy’s being rubbish,” Katie stomped her feet as she looked to Bianca. “He’s no swimming with me.” Katie put her hands on her lips as she scowled.

“I told you I would but Freya needs to wake up first,” Heath spoke softly as he looked to his daughter. “We can’t leave her here on her own, can we?”

Katie scratched the side of her head as she gave a little shrug before she grinned, seeing Darcy was ready to swim. “Let’s go Darcy,” Katie grabbed her hand. “You come to mummy?” Katie looked up at Bianca with an angelic smile.

“I don’t have my costume on pumpkin,” Bianca ruffled her hair. “And mummy’s not staying. I’ve got stuff to do today.”

Katie furrowed her eyebrows before looking up to Darcy. “Let’s go.” Katie said before dragging Darcy down the beach to the ocean.

“You could stay if you wanted.” Heath said, looking to her.

“It’s your time with the kids,” Bianca answered, playing with her wedding rings as she spoke. “I eh, I’ll see you later though yeah. You’re bringing the home around 5?”

“Yeah,” Heath nodded. He’d like to keep them longer but he had work at the restaurant that night. “Did you eh....” Heath rubbed his forehead. “Did you speak to Darce?”

Bianca nodded as she sat down next to Heath. “You don’t have anything to worry about, Heath. She’s a good kid,” Bianca smiled as she looked out at Darcy, who was jumping the waves with Katie. “I think right now she’s more worried about still having a family now we are.....” Bianca trailed off. “Well not together.”

Heath gave a little nod. “She knows you’ll still be there for her no matter what happens with us, right?”

“Of course,” Bianca answered before they stared at each other for a moment. “But eh, listen, she does like VJ and wants to be more than his friend.”

“But she doesn’t want....you know she doesn’t....” Heath didn’t really want to say the word. He didn’t want to associate that with Darcy right now.

“No,” Bianca answered. “I said he could come around for dinner tonight,” Bianca said and Heath widened his eyes. “I’ll be there. It’s not like I’ll give them a little candlelit romantic dinner,” Bianca gave a little laugh. “They’re just kids. It’s not like it’s going to be a deadly serious relationship.”

“Still doesn’t stop me worrying,” Heath sighed. “She’s always going to be my little girl. I’m never going to like any of them dating,” Bianca gave a little nod, of course understanding Heath just wanting the best for and to protect his daughters. “Anyways, he can have dinner with you. Just....keep an eye on him.”

“Like I said. It’s VJ,” Bianca told him. “Not 14 year old you.”

Heath gave a little smirk. “Noted,” Heath said. “So uhm, do you really have stuff to do or can you stay?” Heath questioned, taking her hand in his and lightly rubbing over it with his thumb. Bianca bit her lip as she looked up at Heath.

“I don’t have anything to do,” Bianca pulled her hand away. “But I can’t stay,” Bianca looked out to the girls who were still jumping waves. “I don’t want to confuse them.”

“Confuse them?” Heath questioned. “What about confusing me? We kissed, Bianca. And this time it wasn’t just me kissing you. You kissed me back. We kissed more than once. Don’t try to tell me that it meant nothing to you.”

“Of course it meant something,” Bianca replied. “But we can’t just kiss and think everything is going to be great again. That’s not how it works,” Bianca looked back around at Heath. “I....” Bianca bit her lip, stopping herself talking. “I’m going to go,” Bianca stood to her feet, wiping the sand from her bottom. “See you at 5.” Bianca said before turning and walking away, leaving Heath watching her leave, a saddened look on his face.

******

Ruby and April had enjoyed facials followed by a mani-pedi and were now packing to go back home to the bay. “I wish this didn’t have to end,” Ruby sighed. “Why can’t our life be full of Spa days and hot air balloon rides and bubble baths with champagne?”

“We can have bubble baths with champagne any time you want,” April said, zipping up her little suitcase. “In fact when we get our place together we can do it every night. I’m sure you’d actually get sick of it.”

“I’ll never get sick of bathing with you my love,” Ruby smiled as she zipped up her suitcase. “When do we need to check out?”

“Not for another hour,” April answered. “Why? You want to bath now?” April questioned.

“No,” Ruby gave a little laugh as she walked round the bed and stood in front of her fiancée. “Just think we need something to do fill the time.” Ruby lightly caressed April’s bare arm before kissing her neck softly.

“Mmm and I like what you are thinking,” April wrapped her arms around her girlfriend, pulling her closer so their bodies pressed together. The kiss deepened a little, Ruby running her hands over April’s back before cupping her bum cheeks. “You really do get straight to the bum don’t you?” April laughed.

“Cookie Monster wants to come out to play.” Ruby mumbled before pushing April backwards lightly so she fell down onto the bed, Ruby straddling over her as the continued to kiss.

[Danni02]

Thanks for the comments.

One hundred and eighty-seven

Charlie, Brax and the kids were at the aquarium, Charlie lightly rubbing Luca’s back as she was holding him in the baby carrier. “Ooh what’s thems fishes?” Toby ran to another window as two blue and yellow fish swam past. Noah looked down to the booklet he had on the aquarium fish and flicked through it, looking for the picture to match the fish.

“It’s ehm....Queen Angelfish.” Noah told his brother.

“They’re pretty ones,” Ella said as she too found their page on her book, the twins of course refusing to share, saying they needed one each. “It says they will swim in their pairs,” Ella read the information about them, her finger tracing over the words. “Oh they only live to ar....arou....around,” Ella got the word eventually, “15 years. That’s still a teenager, it’s so young.” Ella glared up at her parents, her alarm at how young the fish die very evident by the look on her face.

“Not for fish.” Charlie rubbed her daughter’s cheek.

“What it say about stingrays?” Toby wondered as he tried to grab the book from his sister to have a look.

“No,” Ella screeched. “Get your own.”

“I can’t read,” Toby sighed. “I just want to see the pictures of the fishes.” Toby stomped his feet on the ground as he pouted sadly at his mother.

Charlie gave a little laugh before turning her son around. “Then see the fish,” Charlie ran her hand over his curly locks as he looked at the window of the tank. “Isn’t that a much better view than a silly book?” Charlie questioned and Toby nodded his head, a big grin on his face.

“You need to let Luca Thomas see them,” Noah told his mother. “Let him see the fish.”

“He’s looking bud,” Brax answered as he smiled down at Luca who was looking to the colourful fish swimming past, his eyes widening as he watched intently. “See.”

“Oh he really does like the fish,” Noah beamed, seeming pleased his little brother liked fish, just like he did. “Let’s take him to the stingrays.” Noah said, grabbing Charlie’s hand and pulling her further down the walkway.

“I want to see the seahorses,” Ella stomped her foot as she glared up at Brax, Toby running off after his mum and brothers. “Now.”

“Calm down petal,” Brax ruffled her hair. “We’ve got all day to spend here. Plenty time to see everything.” Brax said, taking a hold of her hand and walking with her to catch up with Charlie and the boys.

*****

April was straddled over Ruby as she sat on the couch, their hands exploring each other’s bodies as their tongues darted around each other’s mouths. “Maybe we should move to your bedroom.” Rub suggested pulling back just enough to talk.

“Why?” April mumbled as she kissed Ruby’s neck. “No one is home.” April ran her hands down Ruby’s sides, pulling at the bottom of her top, un-tucking it from her skirt.

“Bianca could walk in any minute.” Ruby murmured.

“She won’t,” April replied, going back to kissing her fiancées neck with quick soft kisses.”Besides you’ve said all weekend how you’d do it in public so this is nothing compared to that,” April raised her eyebrows before going back to kissing Ruby on the lips. They pulled back as they heard someone clearing their throat. April looked round to see her sister standing in the doorway, some shopping bags in her hands. “Or she will.” April mumbled as got off from being on top of Ruby. She stood up, straightening up her dress.

“Nice you see you home girls,” Bianca put the shopping bags down in the living room. “How was your weekend?” Bianca said brushing passed the awkwardness of walking in on her little sister getting hot and heavy with her girlfriend.

“It was amazing.” April exhaled dreamily, wishing they could still be away.

“I’m glad you had a good time.” Bianca smiled, seeing Ruby and April couldn’t take the grins off their faces.

“Yeah,” April grinned, bringing her left hand up a little more so Bianca had better view. “Want me to help you with those bags?” April said, reaching her hand out as Bianca gave a little gasp before grabbing her sisters hand.

“April what’s this?” Bianca ran her hand over the rock. “Are you two...” Bianca widened her eyes as she looked up to April and Ruby.

“She proposed.” April shrieked and Bianca gave a girly squeal before pulling April into a hug.

“Congratulations,” Bianca rubbed April’s back before they parted from the hug, Bianca immediately pulling Ruby in and hugging her. “We need to celebrate you becoming my sister-in-law.”

“Yeah sure,” Ruby smiled. “We’ve kinda planned to go out tonight with Adrian and Dex though.”

“We can go out tomorrow night though,” April suggested. “Me and Rubes obviously, you, the girls, Ruby’s mum and dad and the kids....maybe Heath?” April pursed her lips as she looked at Bianca questioningly.

“If you want him there to celebrate your engagement,” Bianca mumbled. “Maybe we could go to the restaurant for a meal?”

“Sounds good to me.” Ruby grinned.

“Awww,” Bianca squealed again. “Do your mum and Brax know yet?”

“Mum knows I was proposing but dad doesn’t, I don’t think. Maybe mum told him, I don’t know,” Ruby shrugged. “How is my mum?” Ruby questioned. She’d called her after her surgery to check up on her but that was all the conversation they’d had all weekend.

“She’s good,” Bianca nodded. “They’ve actually taken the kids to the aquarium today.”

“Ah we’ll get lots of fish stories when we go around with news later then,” Ruby laughed as she nudged April’s arm. “Where are your lovely little munchkins?”

“With their dad,” Bianca answered, both Ruby and April noticing the sadness of her tone. “Anyways, I’ll get this unpacked.” Bianca looked down to her groceries as she spoke.

“Okay well we’re going to go for a walk.” April said, pulling on Ruby’s hand and dragging her from the house.

******

Heath put the bottles of beer into the fridge behind the bar before turning around as he heard his name. He groaned as he recognised the voice. “Rose,” Heath stood up to face her. “You’re not on shift tonight,” Heath said. “What do you want?”

“I wanted to give you this.” Rose pursed her lips as she handed him the envelope.

“What is it?” Heath glanced down to it before looking back up to her.

“My resignation,” Rose told him. “I’m going to move to Newcastle. Got a job lined up there and my best friend moved up there last year so it’ll be nice to see her again.”

“So you ruin my family then skip town?” Heath threw the letter down on the bar top.

“I tried to fix it,” Rose told him. “I spoke with your wife. I told her to give you another chance.”

“And you really think she’ll listen to the person who ruined our marriage in the first place?” Heath sniggered.

“Well it takes two to do the deed, so...” Rose raised her eyebrows. “You can’t completely blame me.”

“I guess not,” Heath mumbled. “And maybe the fact you’re not going to be around will work in my favour, so, maybe I should be thankful.”

Rose gave him a weak smile. “I really do hope you can work it out.” Rose gave him a little smile before turning and walking out of the restaurant, leaving Heath thinking the very same. It was all he ever hoped and he wouldn’t stop trying to get back with Bianca.

[Danni02]

Thank you Red Ranger 1 and Sarah for the comments.

One hundred and eighty-eight

April was sitting on the couch at Ruby’s place, Luca lying on her chest. She was gently rubbing his back as Luca quietly made babbling sounds. The kids had been telling them all about their day at the aquarium, Toby perhaps getting a little overexciting in his sharing, not able to stand still as he spoke. “And uhm....” Toby hoped from foot to foot. “We sawed a shark eating a dolphin.” Toby widened his eyes as he told his story.

“No we didn’t,” Noah sounded appalled at Toby’s lie. “That didn’t happen,” Noah shook his head as he looked between Ruby and April. “We didn’t see that Toby.”

Toby scowled as he brushed some hair from his face. “I sawed it,” Toby said. “I really did, ay mummy?”

“I’m not so sure bud,” Charlie said and Toby once again scowled. “But you did see lots of cool fish and you all got yet another stuffed animal courtesy of daddy’s softness.” Charlie rolled her eyes as she looked at Brax who gave her a cheeky grin.

“Oh we did,” Ella jumped of the chair in excitement. “And we picked this little turtle for Luca,” Ella picked up the teddy that had fallen on the floor. “It’s so little and cute.” Ella giggled as she squeezed the turtle in her hand.

“April why do you have a twig in your hair?” Noah questioned and April went a little red as Ruby laughed, looking to her girlfriend, noticing the mentioned twig.

“Me and April were just having a little nature walk before we came here,” Ruby patted April’s leg as she told her siblings, the three sets of eyes staring at her, waiting on a response. “Right sweets?” Ruby took the little piece of twig from her hair.

“Yeah,” April cleared her throat. “That’s what we did, we went for a walk.” April looked around as she heard a stifled laugh coming from Charlie.

“You’re mummy and I used to go for nature walks too,” Brax said, the kids looking around to him. “But then you twins came along and...” Brax trailed off, shaking his head. “No more.”

Charlie glared at Brax who stifled a laugh before she shook her head lightly. “Right boys you two need a bath so up stairs and get your pyjamas out and daddy will be up soon,” Charlie instructed.

“Ella do you want to go get Luca’s sleep suit and we can bathe him while daddy deals with the boys?”

“Yeah.” Ella answered before she ran out of the room after her brothers.

“I guess you need this one back.” April said, handing Luca back to Charlie.

“We should probably go get ready for seeing Dex and Adrian tonight anyways,” Ruby said, standing up from the couch. “It’s alright to use your bathroom right?” Ruby glanced at her mother. “Since Brax will be in the other one with the boys?”

“Yeah that’s fine.” Charlie replied and Ruby gave a little smile before she and April started to leave the room.

“Make you sure you get all those twigs out April’s hair.” Brax laughed, raising his voice a little as Ruby and April left the room.

******

“Congratulations,” Adrian beamed as she held April’s left hand in hers. “Gorgeous ring too, by the way,” Adrian said, staring up at Ruby. “So where’s your ring?”

“She only just proposed,” April answered. “And the fact we’ve been together all weekend hasn’t exactly left me time to go get her a ring.”

“I don’t need a ring,” Ruby told her. “Besides, I have this,” Ruby played with her necklace. “It’s already a symbol of our commitment.”

“I thought that meant no harm would come to you,” Dex said pointing at the necklace. “You know when your kidneys decided they didn’t want to work anymore.”

“Well yeah,” Ruby answered. “But it still symbolises us.”

“I’m getting you a ring,” April said. “We are engaged so it’s only right you get a ring too,” April gave a little smile before leaning forward and placing a soft kiss on her lips. “Okay?” April said as she pulled back.

“Well I’m not going exactly going to stop my girlfriend from buying me pretty jewellery,” Ruby said. “So, if it’s what you want to do.” Ruby gave a little shrug, acting like she wasn’t bothered but April knew she would love to have a ring too.

“Aww, isn’t it cute?” Adrian gushed as she slapped Dex’s thigh. “So firstly, when is the wedding and secondly, of course I’ll be your maid of honour.” Adrian joked.

Ruby gave a little laugh. “Think she’ll be having Dex as her maid of honour.”

“I can’t be a maid of honour,” Dex gasped in shock at the comment. “I am not a maid.”

Adrian chuckled. “Aww shame I was looking forward to seeing you in a dress.”

Dex cocked his head to the side at his girlfriends comment. “So you can be my man of honour,” April told him. “You are my bestest friend in this whole world Dexter Walker, so you will be my man of honour.”

“Groomsman,” Dex said. “I believe the word you are looking for is groomsman.”

“I’m not a guy,” April hit her chest. “I’m not going to be a groom; therefore you are not my groomsman. You are my man of honour.” Dex groaned, still not liking the sound of that title.

“So if there is going to be a wedding, is there a possibility that you two will move into your own place?” Adrian questioned.

“Yeah,” Ruby answered a grin on her face. “We’ve actually decided to start looking for a place of our own.”

“They’re moving out upstairs,” Dex said pointing up to the ceiling. “You guys could be our upstairs neighbours.”

“Oh my God yes,” Adrian jumped up in excitement. “Take it, you totally need to take it.” Adrian clapped her hands, showing how much she loved Dex’s idea.

April and Ruby exchanged a glance. “We could look, right?” Ruby questioned and April nodded.

“It’s like the very same layout as this place,” Adrian told them. “Open plan kitchen and living area, two bedrooms and a bathroom,” Adrian said. “Oh God let’s go see it right now.” Adrian squealed in excitement, going to stand up.

“Let’s not bother them at 10pm on a Sunday night,” Dex pulled her back to sitting down. “And I’m sure they’ll need to ring the agent for a viewing.”

Adrian sighed a little. “I guess you are right. But you’ll look into it, yeah?”

“Sure we will,” April answered. “This apartment block is lovely and there’s a pool out back. Not to mention our best friends would be living right below us. It would be cool. And if Dex ever annoys you too much you can come live upstairs.” April laughed.

“We haven’t got the place yet sweets,” Ruby rubbed her thigh. “Let’s call and arrange a viewing before we talk about stealing Adrian to come live with us too, yeah?” April stared at Ruby, mumbling a reply. “Anyways are we going to head into town for a couple?”

“Yes,” Adrian stood up, pulling Dex up with her. “Let’s go.” Adrian said, April and Ruby standing up and walking out of the apartment to go for a couple of drinks in town.

******

Brax walked into the en-suite, wrapping his arms around Charlie and softly kissing her neck from behind. Charlie looked at him from the bathroom mirror before pushing his hands away as she winced a little. “You’re still mad at me, aren’t you?” Brax questioned, his hands going back to their place around her waist.

“No you are putting pressure on my stitches.” Charlie knocked his hand away again before putting her tooth brush back in the holder.

“So you are not mad?” Brax questioned. “Because you have still been pretty quiet with me today.”

“I’m not mad,” Charlie turned around to face her husband, her hands going onto his sides. “I’m still just trying to process all this myself and....” Charlie pursed her lips, looking downwards. “I just need a few days. Once the stitches are gone and I feel fine again I’ll be okay.”

“You sure?” Brax lightly rubbed her cheek, pulling her head up to face him again.

“I’m sure.” Charlie told him giving him a smile.

“Good,” Brax smiled. “Well next weekend I was thinking of maybe taking you out for a nice meal, just the two of us,” Brax tucked her hair behind her ear. “What do you think?”

“I’m not going to say no to that,” Charlie answered. “You think the happy couple will watch the kids for us?” Charlie questioned.

“I’m sure they will,” Brax answered, continuing to rub her cheek. Charlie smiled as she looked into his eyes, before they shared a soft kiss. “Mmm,” Brax pursed his lips, pulling back. “You want to have an early night?” Brax gestured to the bedroom.

“Uh-uh,” Charlie shook her head. “Well I’d like an early night but not your idea of an early night,” Charlie yawned. “It’s too soon to think about that.” Charlie raised her eyebrows a little and Brax gave a little laugh.

“Will you snuggle with me?” Brax questioned and Charlie gave a little nod before placing another kiss on his lips.

“All night long.” Charlie told him. “But watch the stitches.” Charlie said before taking his hand and leading him to their bed.

[Danni02]

Thank you CharlieAndBraxLover, Red Ranger 1 and Sarah for the comments.

One hundred and eighty-nine

Ruby and April were looking around the apartment and so far as Adrian had mentioned it looked exactly like her and Dexter’s place, the only difference being the colour scheme and of course the furniture. “So this is the other bedroom,” Paula said as they walked into the room. “It is the larger of the two so you girls will probably fight over who gets this room.”

“I’m sorry?” April questioned. “Why would we need to fight over this room?” April said. “We are both going to be sleeping in this room.” April said, taking Ruby’s hand in hers and rubbing it gently.

“Oh. Oh I see I am sorry,” Paula looked a little embarrassed. “I just thought two very attractive girls like yourselves would have nice boyfriends.”

“So lesbians are ugly?” April retorted.

“No, I just meant ....” Paula pushed her glasses back up her nose as she spoke. “Sorry I’ve just never dealt with lesbians before.”

“I’m not a lesbian.” Ruby said, getting a rather steely glare from April.

“Right,” Paula looked a little confused. “Anyways as you can see there’s nice hardwood flooring and a rather large bay window looking out to the ocean. Gorgeous view, don’t you agree, ladies?”

“It’s lovely,” April stood in front of the window. “And it’s in a gorgeous area too.”

“Yes,” Paula agreed. “Well I will let you two have a little chat and I’ll be back waiting in the kitchen.” Paula said, before making an exit from the bedroom, Ruby and April having now seen all of the apartment.

“So what do you think?” April questioned turning to face Ruby.

“The bathroom is a lot smaller than Dex and Adrian’s,” Ruby walked over to the window and leaned against it. “You think we could still share bath’s in there?”

“Might be a bit more cosy but what’s wrong with that?” April raised her eyebrows a little.

“Nothing I guess,” Ruby exhaled. “It really is a great place,” Ruby smiled. “You think we should say we want to rent? It is only the first place we’ve looked at so maybe we should shop around a bit more?”

“I dunno,” April shrugged. “This place feels like it’s us,” April walked around the room, her hand trailing the wall. “There’s plenty room in the living room for my bookcase for my millions of uni books, you’re guitar could sit in front of that bay window, we have a second bedroom which is great for if we are ever babysitting or you know...our future twins, Sebastian and Mila....” April trailed off.

Ruby gave a little laugh. “I told you already we can’t name our daughter Mila.”

“It’s not as if you have anything to do with your sister. And anyways she’s only a half-sibling, what does she matter?” April questioned.

Ruby raised her eyebrows. “All my siblings are only half ones,” Ruby told her. “And you and Bianca are only half siblings too. Surely they all matter to us.”

“Well yeah of course,” April said. “I mean.....well you’ve never been in her life, have you?”

“No,” Ruby shook her head. “Anyways, we are getting a little off track here,” Ruby said. “So you really think this is our place?”

“I do,” April smiled. “I can really see us being very happy here.”

Ruby pursed her lips before giving a little smile. “Let’s go tell Paula we want this place then.” Ruby said and April gave a little squeal before practically running out of the room to go talk to Paula.

******

Heath walked across the graveyard, the little blue teddy in his hand. He paused as he saw her kneeling down in front of his grave, arranging some flowers. “Hey,” Heath cleared his throat as he sat down on the grass. “Almost 7,” Heath exhaled. “Not too old for teddies, is he?”

Bianca shook her head. “The twins still have heaps of teddies.”

Heath put the teddy down next to the two others that were already there. “I can come back later if you want.”

“He’s as much your son as he is....” Bianca pursed her lips. “Was mines.” Bianca cleared her throat.

Heath nodded before tentatively putting his hand on her back, rubbing it gently in comfort. “Where’s our little Princess?” Heath questioned.

“She’s with Irene.” Bianca told him.

Heath smiled weakly. “Eh, so Rose skipped town,” Heath told her. “Handed her resignation in but didn’t stick around to work her notice.” Heath sighed.

“Well I’m not sorry that she’s not around anymore,” Bianca replied. “But sorry that she’s left you understaffed.”

“Ah she’ll be easy enough to replace,” Heath told her. “And maybe now she is gone we can....” Heath bit his lip. “Maybe.”

Bianca clicked her tongue. “So, you know how April and Ruby are looking for a place together?” Bianca said, not giving his suggestion a reply. Heath gave a little nod. “Well I was thinking that we could move Darcy into April’s room. Maybe you and Darcy can decorate it together. It can be some bonding time for you two.”

“Or maybe the three of us could do it together,” Heath rubbed the back of his head feeling unsure about how this suggestion would go down as well. “You know, show Darce that we are still a family. Still united when it comes to her.”

Bianca gave a wary nod. “Sure. I’m sure for Darcy we can do that.”

Heath gave her a smile, looking into her eyes for a moment. “So, how was dinner with VJ the other night?”

“He was very polite,” Bianca smiled. “He’s a good kid, Heath. I think he’d be nothing but sweet with Darcy.”

“Yes well maybe we’d need to have a little chat before they started dating.” Heath exhaled.

“Don’t go scaring the boy off,” Bianca slapped his chest. “Remember he is only 14. They’re still young. Maybe if they were a few years older you’d have more of a need to be hesitant to let them date.”

“Well I’ll trust you on this one,” Heath exhaled. “I mean you are usually right about everything so...” Heath trailed off, raising his eyebrows.

Bianca gave him a cheeky smile. “You have somewhere you need to be?”

“No till work tonight,” Heath answered. “Why?”

“Uhm,” Bianca cleared her throat. “Maybe we could get some lunch?” Bianca questioned. “We can...we can talk.”

“I’d love to get lunch with you,” Heath smiled at his estranged wife. “It’s your shout though, right?” Heath wondered as he stood up, taking Bianca’s hand and helping her back to her feet.

******

Brax squinted his eyes as he tried to read the computer screen. “Where are your glasses?” Charlie questioned, walking back into the living room from having been up the stairs, collecting Luca from his nap.

“I don’t like them.” Brax sighed, his eyes still squinting, trying to read the prices on the screen.

“Well if they are going to make you see then I suggest you wear them,” Charlie told him. “Unless you want me to give your head a big knock, maybe it’ll turn you blind again and you won’t need glasses.”

Brax stifled a laugh. “No thank you. I’d rather have my sight.” Brax said as Charlie took a seat on the couch next to him, Luca staring up at her with his big green eyes. She pulled a funny face, resulting in Luca giving a gummy grin.

“Then put your glasses on.” Charlie told him.

“I don’t know where I have put them,” Brax answered, turning to face his wife. “Anyways, I’m looking at flights to Melbourne for next month,” Brax told her. “I know you and Ella were going to get the train but now all 6 of us are going it’ll probably be cheaper flying. Not to mention quicker and probably easier too.”

“I was actually going to take a plane with just Ella,” Charlie told him. “Near 11 hours on a train with a seven year old is never a good idea.” Charlie said and Brax gave a little chuckle.

“Could always have done the overnight one,” Brax suggested. “Bet she would have thought sleeping on the train would have been cool.”

“Probably,” Charlie agreed. “But we will get a plane,” Charlie looked to the computer screen. “And we still have a hotel to book. This is going to be one expensive weekend.” Charlie sighed before looking down to Luca who was babbling in her arms.

“Well me and the boys don’t need to come,” Brax exhaled. “We were only going to because I was scared to be alone here with them but I was blind when this was arranged. I can see now.”

“Barely,” Charlie muttered. “And even less when you don’t wear your glasses.”

“Yeah yeah, I’ll find them later,” Brax sighed. “So am I booking 5 seats or two?” Brax questioned.

“5,” Charlie told him. “We’ve told the boys they are going now so we can’t change the plans. Plus it’ll be a nice little weekend break for us.” Charlie said placing one hand on Brax’s thigh.

“Yeah,” Brax agreed. “Our first little holiday with little Luca bean,” Brax smiled down at his son who was still smiling up at his parents. “Right, let’s book this flight then.” Brax said, looking back to the computer to fill out all the details needed.

[Danni02]

Thank you Sarah, Spotd1 and Red Ranger 1 for the comments.

One hundred and ninety

Charlie walked into Ruby’s room, watching as her daughter was counting steps as she walk next to the far wall. “What you doing?” Charlie looked amused.

“I’m seeing if all my toys will fit.” Ella said, looking up to her mother.

“And why do you need to do that?” Charlie questioned. “You have a perfectly nice bedroom where all your toys happily fit.”

“Yes but Ruby doesn’t need this room anymore,” Ella skipped over to the bed as Charlie leaned against the doorframe. “And it means I get a big bed.” Ella jumped up onto the bed and started to jump around.

“You don’t need a big bed,” Charlie told her daughter. “Seven year olds do just fine in a single bed.”

Ella scowled at her mother. “Ruby get’s one.”

“Yes but she is more than 3 times your age,” Charlie said, walking into the room and taking a hold of Ella, stopping her from jumping on the bed. She sat down on the edge, Ella sitting sideways on her knee. “Besides this room is blue and I am pretty sure your prefer your pink and yellow room.”

“Well yes,” Ella sighed. “But we could change the colour.” Ella gave her mother a sad pout.

“You are not getting this room petal.” Charlie told her daughter and Ella frowned as Toby came running into the room.

“Is it for a new baby brother?” Toby wondered as he climbed up onto the bed, sitting close to his mother.

“No,” Charlie shook her head. “Until Ruby moves out its still her room then it’ll be used as a guest room.”

“Mum,” Ella sighed. “We never have guests. It should be my room.”

“No no no,” Toby shook his head. “It should be my room.” Toby slapped his hands against his chest.

“I’ve not even moved out yet and you two are fighting over my room, huh?” Ruby said as she walked into the room. “Nice to see I will be missed.”

“You will but I just want this room,” Ella said. “I’m going to ask daddy,” Ella jumped down from Charlie’s knee. “He always tells me yes.” Ella grinning almost smugly at her mother before she ran out of the room.

“Oh no,” Toby jumped down from the bed. “No you don’t Ella, it’s mine.” Toby said running out after his sister.

“You okay?” Ruby said looking down to her mother as sat down next to her.

“Mmm,” Charlie pursed her lips. “How eh, how did the house hunt go?”

“We found a place we love and it’s going to be ours,” Ruby smiled. “We can move in next week.”

“Wow,” Charlie was a little surprised at how fast it all happened. “That’s great.”

“Is it?” Ruby questioned. “You don’t sound that pleased for us.”

“No, I am,” Charlie managed a weak smile. “Of course I am. It’s just....you may be turning 23 this year but you’ll always be my baby,” Charlie rubbed her daughters arm. “It’s just very grown up. Getting engaged and leaving home.”

“I’ll still be around all the time,” Ruby told her. “You’ll be that sick of me you’ll be telling me to go home.” Ruby laughed.

“Well just know that you’ve always got.....you know that....” Charlie pursed her lips.

“I know,” Ruby rubbed her mother’s arm. “I’ll always have a home here.” Ruby smiled before she gave her mother a hug.

******

“So, I thought dykes couldn’t get married.” Heath said before throwing some chips into his mouth.

“Don’t call them dykes,” Bianca gave Heath a steely glare. “It’s not officially going to be a legal wedding,” Bianca told him. “It’ll be a commitment ceremony but right now for them that’s as close to marriage as they can get.”

Heath gave a little nod as he swallowed. “Kinda sucks that you can’t marry the person you love most eh.” Heath said before taking a drink.

Bianca moved some pasta around her bowl before giving a little nod. “It must but at least they can be together,” Bianca told him. “It’s something.”

“Well I feel for them,” Heath said. “How would you like it if people didn’t want you marrying the person you loved most?”

“Both my mother and Charlie questioned my marriage to you,” Bianca replied. “Besides that’s a bit different. I can still marry you legally. Rubes and April can’t. It’s the law and unfortunately we can’t change that right now.”

“Guess not,” Heath exhaled. “So,” Heath decided to change the subject. “When do you want to start painting Darce’s room?”

“We should probably wait till April has moved out,” Bianca told him. “I don’t know for sure when that’ll be but I will let you know.” Bianca said and Heath gave a little nod.

“So how’s Princess doing in her own room?” Heath wondered, of course him not knowing how well that was still going, given he didn’t live there anymore.

“She’s sleeping better there.” Bianca laughed, like she almost couldn’t believe it.

“Can you leave her to it?” Heath wondered.

“I....” Bianca paused. “I’m getting better, I really am. It’ll be around an hour that I’ll watch her for rather than 3.”

Heath raised his eyebrows but of course understood that Bianca needed to see her daughter was safe, especially after what happened with Rocco. “Well that’s good.” Heath smiled a little.

“Yeah.” Bianca exhaled as she looked into his soft eyes. She felt her smile growing, still feeling so much love for the man sitting before her.

“What’s that look for?” Heath questioned.

“No reason.” Bianca bit her lip before taking a forkful of her pasta. Heath watched her as she ate, smiling hopefully at their future.

******

Charlie and Leah were round at Bianca’s place, Luca making the trip with his mother but the twins and Toby staying at home, Brax doing the bedtime routine with them. Freya and Luca were laying on the play mat, Freya happy to hit the rattle, much to the amusement of Luca, who was grinning widely as he squealed each time she hit the rattle. “So how you feeling?” Bianca handed down the coffees to her friends.

“I’m alright,” Charlie said. “I get my stitches out tomorrow,” Charlie gave a weak smile. “Then hopefully that’s it for hospital visits for a while.”

“What about emotionally?” Leah questioned as Bianca walked back from the kitchen with her coffee up and took a seat on the couch next to Charlie.

“I...” Charlie pursed her lips. “It is what is,” Charlie exhaled. “And it’s not like I’d choose to have baby number 6 anyways,” Charlie said. “Just its.....all very final, you know?”

“Yeah,” Leah exhaled. “But hey at least you won’t get your period anymore. Can’t say you’ll miss that, surely?”

“Well no,” Charlie gave a little laugh. “I just wish they could have got rid of the tumour without having to remove anything else and I know I’ve not really changed or it doesn’t make me any less of a woman but me having those did make me a woman you, know and....” Charlie gave a little shrug.

“You still have your breast and...” Bianca pointed down there. “You’re still a woman.”

Charlie gave a little laugh. “I know. I know,” Charlie pursed her lips. “So, anyways, how was your day?”

“Mines?” Bianca questioned. “Yeah it was good. Ehm,” Bianca rubbed the back of her head. “I had lunch with Heath.”

“Oh,” Leah and Charlie both gasped, their eyebrows raising. “What does this mean?” Leah questioned.

“It means I had lunch with Heath,” Bianca said before taking a drink of her coffee. “I dunno, I.....” Bianca exhaled. “It’s nice being around him and we....its feels....” Bianca stopped talking. “Ah let’s not talk about me.”

“No, lets,” Leah said. “When are you going to give into what you truly want?” Leah wondered it obvious to anyone that Bianca wanted to take Heath back.

“I....” Bianca pursed her lips. “I don’t want to rush it okay?” Bianca questioned. “A lot has happened lately and we need to take this slow. It’s just for the best.” Bianca said before taking another drink of her coffee, knowing that even though deep down she wanted to ask Heath to come home, she was better to wait until they were in a better place before doing so.